The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival will start tomorrow, July 29th, and run through November 23, 2024, this year. This is one of our favorite Disney World events!
Take a taste tour around the world at appetizing marketplaces featuring authentic global cuisine and beverages. This is foodie heaven with delicious 2 dishes, fine wine, craft beer, spirits, and other beverages sure to satisfy every palate.
For a full list of the numerous marketplace menus, check out the festival page below:
Hear live musical performances from renowned artists and fresh, local talent at the Eat to the Beat concert series with performances nightly starting at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM at the America Gardens Theatre.
Participate in the Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak or Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit scavenger hunts. Commemorate your trip with special photo ops. And of course, there will be plenty of merch if you want to do some souvenir shopping.
Don’t skip EPCOT on your next Disney World trip!
Feel free to contact me if you want to chat about this festival or planning a Disney trip in general. We love going to Disney World during these festivals!
Universal Epic Universe finally introduced details of the last exciting world in this new theme park, opening in 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™
Encounter fantastic beasts as you explore wizarding Paris in the 1920s, then take the Métro-Floo to the British Ministry in the 1990s for new thrills with Harry, Ron and Hermione.
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™
Travel by Métro-Floo from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic™ where Dolores Umbridge™ is about to stand trial. Board a lift and join Harry, Ron, and Hermione as you journey deep into the Ministry’s many departments. Thrilling adventure, fantastic beasts, and unexplored mystery await in this exciting new ride.
Le Cirque Arcanus
In an attempt to bring Le Cirque Arcanus back to its former glory, ringmaster Skender has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase which contains fantastic beasts from around the globe. It’s up to circus employee Gwenlyn to rescue the creatures in this spectacular theatrical show of live performers, amazing puppetry, dazzling special effects and more.
Wand Magic in Wizarding Paris
Sharpen your spell-casting skills with amazing new interactive wand experiences. Immerse yourself in the magic with interactive wands that enable you to cast spells and interact with fantastic beasts and enchanted objects throughout wizarding Paris.
Shop inCosme Acajor Baguettes Magique™
Find some of the finest wands in the world, designed by esteemed artisan wandmaker, Cosme Acajor. Acajor’s unique approach to wandlore, couture influence, and utilization of distinct wand cores results in an outcome that is not a wand, but a work of art.
Café L’air De La Sirène™
Dine inside or outside as you enjoy French baked goods, sandwiches, plats du jour and desserts. You can quench your thirst with Butterbeer™ along with a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks including beer, cocktails and French wines.
Are you excited for this world? We can finally go in the Ministry of Magic! I can’t wait!
* Photos are current artist renderings courtesy of Universal Studios.
The image above shows an overview of Universal Epic Universe along with the other worlds that make up the park. More details will be revealed about each in the coming months. Stay tuned!
In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™, explore international wizarding communities from 1920s Paris to the 1990s British Ministry via floo network.
In Dark Universe, explore a world of myth and mystery, from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to a shadowy landscape where monsters roam.
Visit my previous post to see the details revealed already about Dark Universe.
At Super Nintendo World™ you’ll experience a new way to play, from challenging Bowser on the Mario Kart™ ride to venturing through Donkey Kong Country™ and so much more.
Visit my previous post to see the details revealed already about Super Nintendo World.
In How to Train Your Dragon, take to the skies and soar with dragons as you explore the colorful Viking village at the heart of Berk. Take part in wild boat battles, feast like a Viking, and more.
Celestial Park is the central hub area of Epic Universe, with lush tree-lined walkways, dancing fountains, restaurants, shops, and more.
Visit my previous post to see the details revealed already about Celestial Park.
Contact me if you want to chat about planning or booking your next trip to Universal or any other destination. Subscribe to my blog and follow my Instagram and Facebook to get future updates on this new park.
Today, July 24, 2024, the Disney World Genie+ service will be renamed to Lightning Lane, with a few major changes. I’ve created a guide with all of the details you need to know.
I’ve compiled a list of travel related items that I’ve found useful on my trips and some of them have Prime Day deals. If you have any other items that you love from your trips, please let me know so I can check them out too.
Purchasing your Amazon items through my affiliate links will help support my sites so I can bring you more travel news, tips, and info. Thanks for your support!
Disney World is bringing back Jollywood Nights, the after-hours holiday party that started last year in Hollywood Studios!
You can dance the night away with live bands, see festive stage shows, and cap the night off with the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! nighttime spectacular. In addition, enjoy lower wait times for your favorite attractions, meet beloved characters dressed in their holiday finest, enjoy unique entertainment, and feast on new holiday treats.
This event will take place on select nights from November 9 to December 21, 2024.
Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can purchase tickets starting today, July 2, 2024, for event dates during their stay. If you’re not staying at a Disney Resort, you can buy tickets starting July 10, 2024.
This is a separate party from the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party that I talked about yesterday, but tickets to both events are on sale at the same time.
2024 Event Dates
November 9, 13, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30 December 2, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21
This special event takes place from 7:30pm to 12:30am but ticket holders can enter Disney’s Hollywood Studios as early as 6pm on the date of their ticket. No theme park reservation is needed to enter after 6pm. Come dressed to impressed.
Ticket prices start at $159. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket, valid for all event nights.
NEW! Gather for a dazzling skating spectacular on Hollywood Boulevard, set to your favorite holiday tunes. Take in the grace and skill of international champion skaters in an awe-inspiring twist on the traditional ice show.
Join Jack Skellington at Hyperion Theater for a dreamlike adventure inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Sing along with the Pumpkin King to songs from the film as you follow 2 friends on a larger-than-life journey.
Don’t miss Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy as they host a star-studded holiday music and dancing extravaganza in the Theater of the Stars, with appearances from Tiana, Belle, Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, and more, accompanied by a talented cast of singers, dancers, and jazz musicians.
Experience Holiday Fiesta en la Calle, a lively holiday street fair in the Courtyard with colorful décor and spirited musicians performing Latin holiday tunes, as well as appearances from José Carioca and Panchito from The Three Caballeros.
Gather around Echo Lake for a 1990s-2000s throwback bash where you may spot Phineas, Ferb, and Max Goof as Powerline. Plus, Baloo and King Louie from Talespin will join the fun in 2024!
Celebrate in Pixar Plaza at a dance party with the incomparable Edna Mode.
After all that excitement, join a Twilight Soirée at the Tip Top Club, a swingin’ celebration in the courtyard of The Hollywood Tower Hotel. Purchase your cocktails and unwind in style while a live band swoons and croons holiday tunes.
Cap off the night with Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!, a nighttime spectacular of fireworks, lasers, lights, music, and projectionsofholiday moments from favorite Disney films against the iconic Chinese Theater.
Pose for pics all night since PhotoPass digital photos and videos from the event are included with your ticket! Be on the lookout for magic shots and specialty image captures.
Commemorate your exciting evening with Disney Jollywood Nights themed apparel, accessories, collectibles, and more.
For an extra indulgence, reserve Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby. On event evenings, guests can sip craft cocktails and enjoy an event-exclusive menu of light bites while a pianist plays smooth holiday tunes at The Hollywood Brown Derby. This restaurant fills up very quickly so reserve this ASAP if you’re interested.
As always, feel free to contact me if you want me to book these events for your next Disney trip.
As crazy as it seems, we’re halfway to Christmas already! This year’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park in Disney World will take place on select nights from November 8, 2024 to December 20, 2024. It goes from 7pm – midnight ET, though you can get into the park after 4pm with the party ticket. No park reservations are necessary for the party.
Delight in the amazingly festive Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show!
Gather to watch Disney Characters give a yuletide nod to the season during Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.
Head over to Cinderella Castle for a yuletide stage show, Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration!
Join Elsa, Anna, and friends for a Frozen Holiday Surprise as the Cinderella Castle is turned into a frozen wonderland.
Get the perfect pictureand Magic Shots with Disney pals dressed in their Christmas best!
Make your night extra sweet when you explore the park searching for cookies and cocoa, plus many other holiday treats and merch.
Dance the night away at several dance parties with your favorite characters.
Take in the elaborate decorations that bring the spirit of the season to life!
Delight your taste buds with delicious holiday sips and bites.
Bring home festive finds to remember this seasonal celebration with unique festival merchandise.
Enjoy lower crowds on rides and shows, some with holiday overlays and decor.
Meet Santa!
For an extra indulgence, enjoy a sweet treats buffet and priority viewing for Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks with a Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace or with a Plaza Garden viewing. Tickets for this additional add-on will go on sale in September.
Tickets range from $169 – $219. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket on select nights before Dec 5th.
Tickets are limited and will go on sale July 2, 2024 if you’re staying at a select Disney resort during your party day and July 10, 2024 if you’re not.
This is a very popular event and certain days will sell out fast. If this is a must-do and you’re limited to certain days, you may want to buy your tickets as soon as you can.
If you’re not going to the party and you only have one Magic Kingdom day, you may want to go to a different park on a party day since Magic Kingdom will close early to non-party guests. If you do have multiple Magic Kingdom days, then you may actually want to go to Magic Kingdom on a party day since crowds may be lower from other non-party-goers avoiding a short day there.
We’ve been to this party in the past and it was really fun. Please contact me if you want to chat more about this or to help book your party tickets.
Disney announced new Disney World Resort savings offers for Fall through the 2024 Holiday Season. On sale now. Lock in your next vacation now with just a $200 deposit!
Even if you already have a trip booked, you may be able to get one of these offers applied to it if your booking fits the criteria.
Save up to 30% on rooms for stays most nights from November 24 to December 25, 2024.
Enjoy other savings for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from October 6 to November 21, 2024.
Plus, get FREE Park Hopper benefits when you take advantage of this offer and upgrade to a Walt Disney Travel Company room-and-ticket package that includes nondiscounted 4-day (or longer) date-based theme park tickets! With Park Hopper benefits, you can visit multiple theme parks each day of your ticket.
Florida Residents: Save Up to 30% on Rooms
Florida residents can save 10% – 30% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels, valid for 1 – 14 night stays most nights from Oct 6 – Nov 21, 2024 and Nov 24 – Dec 25, 2024.
Proof of Florida residency is required at check-in.
Annual Passholders: Save Up to 40% on Rooms
For 1 – 14 night stays from Oct 6 – Nov 21, 2024 and Nov 24 – Dec 25, 2024, annual passholders can save 10% – 40% depending on the resort.
Proof of Annual Pass required at check-in.
This is a good time to book a trip while these offers are going on. Lock in a deal with just a $200 deposit for packages with rooms and tickets or the first night rate for room-only bookings before they sell out.
The number of rooms allocated for any of these offers is limited and excludes certain room types. Savings are based on the non-discounted price for the same room.
Please contact me to check if your desired resort has availability for any offers.
Big News! Disney just announced changes to Genie+ starting July 24, 2024 in an effort to make it less confusing and more user friendly.
First, to make it explicitly clear what you’re buying, they’ve renamed the two types of passes. Disney Genie+ service will become Lightning Lane Multi Pass, while individual Lightning Lane will now be known as Lightning Lane Single Pass.
Second, at Disney World in Orlando, you can now select rides in advance so you don’t have to wake up at 7am each day of your trip anymore! Yay!
You can select up to 3 rides using your multi pass and/or 2 single pass rides. You’ll also be able to choose specific return window times when you make your selections, so you can plan around dining reservations and other plans.
Selections can be made as soon as 7 days before your trip for each day of your trip if you’re staying at a Disney resort or 3 days if you’re not. On the day of your visit, once you use a selection, you may check the My Disney Experience app for availability to make additional selections.
At Disneyland, Genie+ must still be booked the day of. Everything will work the same as it does now except for the name changes.
If you’re familiar with the old FastPass system when it used to let us pick 3 rides in advance, it’s basically returning back to that paradigm. There are some nuances to be aware of, such as picking rides from a tier system, and how all this effects your strategy of which rides to get first now. I’m sure more will be clarified in due time too.
I’ll update my Disney World Lightning Lane page with all of the details as it gets closer. For now, I just wanted to give you a quick heads up incase you have an upcoming trip soon after July 24th. If you do, feel free to ping me if you want to chat more about this.
Contact me if you want me to book your next Disney trip.
The very popular Oogie Boogie Bash Halloween Party will be returning to Disneyland California Adventure Park for Halloween 2024!
Join in the fun as the park transforms into a family-friendly, frightfully fun after-hours event on select nights from Aug 25 – Oct 31, 2024 with unique entertainment, festive treats, and more. Party festivities take place from 6pm-11pm but you may enter the park after 3pm with the party ticket.
Experience the spirited not-so-scary, family-friendly atmosphere with many unique party activities:
Frightfully Fun Parade – experience chills and thrills as this parade weaves through the streets of California Adventure with appearances by The Headless Horseman, Jack Skellington, the Cheshire Cat, and many other favorites.
Villains Grove – explore Redwood Creek Challenge Trail where some of your favorite Disney villains have turned the forest into an enchanted grove of mystical lights, sights and sounds.
Character Meets – meet some of Disney’s most popular characters decked out in their Halloween costumes.
Trick-or-Treat – collect candy as you roam trails around the park in search of some of your favorite sweets.
Dress in costume – revel in the festive atmosphere around the park with fellow party-goers and Disney favorites in their Halloween finest.
Photo Ops – commemorate the night with themed backdrops and magic shots.
PhotoPass – enjoy unlimited downloads of Disney PhotoPass digital photos captured from 6pm-11pm, during the party.
Shopping – of course, there will be themed party merch!
Those of you who want a little extra indulgence can book the Disneyland Resort VIP Tour as well. Indulgein VIP treatment before and during the Oogie Boogie Bash. Be escorted around the Disneyland Resort by expertly trained VIP Tour Guides and enjoy priority access to experiences across both parks, reserved seating at parades, and more!
2024 Dates and Ticket Prices
Sunday, August 25 $134 Tuesday, August 27 $134 Thursday, August 29 $134
Tuesday, September 3 $154 Tuesday, September 10 $154 Thursday, September 12 $154 Sunday, September 15 $169 Tuesday, September 17 $154 Thursday, September 19 $154 Sunday, September 22 $169 Tuesday, September 24 $154 Thursday, September 26 $154 Sunday, September 29 $169
Tuesday, October 1 $169 Thursday, October 3 $169 Sunday, October 6 $179 Tuesday, October 8 $169 Thursday, October 10 $169 Sunday, October 13 $179 Tuesday, October 15 $169 Thursday, October 17 $169 Sunday, October 20 $179 Tuesday, October 22 $179 Tuesday, October 22 $179 Thursday, October 24 $179 Sunday, October 27 $189 Tuesday, October 29 $189 Thursday, October 31 $189
Ticket sales for this party start today, June 25, 2024, for Magic Key Inspire members and on June 26, 2024 for all Magic Key members. General admission tickets go on sale June 27, 2024. The online waiting room to purchase will open at approximately 8:45am, Pacific Time on the Disneyland site. This is a very popular event, and tickets could sell out fast.
Contact me if you want me to book these tickets or your Disney trip in general.
Universal Epic Universe introduced details of another exciting world in this new theme park, opening in 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort – Dark Universe!
Explore a shadowy village ravaged by the monsters of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s experiments as she continues the work of her ancestors. In Dark Universe, the legendary Universal monsters come to life, with mystery at every turn.
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
On this technologically advanced thrill ride, Dracula leads a revolt of enraged monsters including The Wolf Man, The Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and more. Experience cutting-edge animatronics, vivid projections, and immersive sensory effects.
Curse of the Werewolf
Spin and weave through the foreboding forest in an attempt to escape the glowing eyes and gnashing teeth of the hungry werewolves. This family-friendly spin coaster tears through the dark forest at 37 mph, for over 2 minutes of sheer thrill.
Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience
Embrace your love of Universal Monsters as skilled artisans turn you into a werewolf, vampire, mummy, or something even more monstrous.
Meet Monsters in the Streets of Darkmoor Village
Visit Darkmoor Village and take a photo with its inhabitants, including Frankenstein’s Monster and his Bride, Ygor, The Invisible Man, and other foreboding residents of the village.
Das Stakehaus
Enjoy a meal in this mysterious dining hall built over the ruins of ancient catacombs. The restaurant is run by vampires’ “familiars” or servants and is surrounded by vampire artwork and artifacts.
The Burning Blade Tavern
Visit the hangout of Darkmoor Village’s monster hunters and enjoy a menu of burgers, wings, bratwursts, pretzels, and specialty beverages.
The menacing streets of Darkmoor Village and the catacombs beneath Frankenstein Manor reveal a world of unearthly legends and monstrous experiments. A new generation of monsters welcomes unwary visitors to their shadowy realm where myth and reality meet.
This new world will be family-friendly, while still satisfying the monstrous thirst of those seeking darker thrills. Are you excited for this new world?
* Photos are current artist renderings courtesy of Universal Studios.
The image above shows an overview of Universal Epic Universe along with the other worlds that make up the park. More details will be revealed about each in the coming months. Stay tuned!
In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™, explore international wizarding communities from 1920s Paris to the 1990s British Ministry via floo network.
In Dark Universe, explore a world of myth and mystery, from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to a shadowy landscape where monsters roam.
At Super Nintendo World™ you’ll experience a new way to play, from challenging Bowser on the Mario Kart™ ride to venturing through Donkey Kong Country™ and so much more.
Visit my previous post to see the details revealed already about Super Nintendo World.
In How to Train Your Dragon, take to the skies and soar with dragons as you explore the colorful Viking village at the heart of Berk. Take part in wild boat battles, feast like a Viking, and more.
Celestial Park is the central hub area of Epic Universe, with lush tree-lined walkways, dancing fountains, restaurants, shops, and more.
Visit my previous post to see the details revealed already about Celestial Park.
Contact me if you want to chat about planning or booking your next trip to Universal or any other destination. Subscribe to my blog and follow my Instagram and Facebook to get future updates on this new park.
Adventures By Anne 