Ten Reasons You Need to Visit Walt Disney World this Fall

Disney has been telling us that #NowMoreThanEver is the time to visit Walt Disney World, and I’m here to tell you that, in my professional opinion, the Fall of 2019 is really, really now more than ever. I’d call it the perfect storm, but there’s nothing stormy about what is brewing in the most magical place on Earth, unless you’d count Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party featuring some of the most infamous villains to ever take stage on the big screen.

But, enough said, let’s take a look at the proof. I’m counting down the top ten reasons you NEED to visit Walt Disney World this fall.

TEN

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy

This all-new show experience invites guests to step into the world of Pixar Animation Studios’ “Cars” films as Guests become rookie racers and learn the rules of the road from Piston Cup Champion Lightning McQueen himself!

During this 10-minute show, Lightning McQueen appears live on stage to share his racing knowledge – and if there’s one thing he’s learned over the years is that things don’t always go as planned. But with the help of Mater, Cruz Ramirez and other friends from Radiator Springs, Lightning is bound to get back “on track.”

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Disney is calling this new addition a step in a multi-year transformation for Hollywood Studio’s 30th anniversary, and I’ll all wheels!

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NINE

Celebrating 25 Years of The Lion King

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the original animated film, “The Lion King,” and now more than ever, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is alive with the magic of its story and characters.

Each day, Discovery Island jams to the Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party, a wild celebration where young adventurers can let out their inner animals on the dance floor. The party hosts engage everyone in entertaining dances and games inspired by “The Lion King” and some of the animals they’ve encountered in their travels.

A group of wildly talented musicians and a DJ provide the perfect soundtrack to the Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party, featuring animal-inspired popular songs and tunes from “The Lion King,” all performed in a World Beat style. Timon, Rafiki and their Disney animal pals Baloo, Koda, Meeko and Terk stop by, too, living their best “Hakuna Matata” life! If you want to enjoy this celebration, be sure to get there before September 30 when the sun sets on this celebration.

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EIGHT

Rivers of Light: We Are One Debuts as Animal Kingdom’s revamped Nighttime Show

Since its introduction more than two years ago, “Rivers of Light” has enchanted Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park Guests with a nighttime pageant of beautifully illuminated lantern floats, grand theatrical imagery, a soaring musical score and innovative special effects. This summer, the next chapter of this spectacle will unfold with the debut of “Rivers of Light: We Are One.”

“Rivers of Light: We Are One” introduces additional, stunning imagery from Disneynature films, along with classic moments from Disney animation, to express our connection with animals and our journey through the great circle of life.

“Rivers of Light: We Are One” comes to the Discovery River Amphitheater at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, beginning Memorial Day Weekend 2019.

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SEVEN

Disney’s newest resort: Riviera opens in Fall 2019

On his extended tours of Europe, Walt Disney fell in love with European art, architecture, food and, of course, stories. Disney’s Riviera Resort will reflect a European theme with a Disney twist!

While not everyone is going to make a point to stay here, it demonstrates Disney’s commitment to opening more options for travelers to enjoy all the magic of Disney – from the moment your head hits the pillow at night and when you wake up again in the morning. Like all popular brands, Disney experiences a supply and demand model that makes it necessary to book early. Here’s hoping that by adding this gorgeous deluxe resort, we will find even more options on Disney’s plate of accommodations.

This resort will feature a full range of options from cozy Tower Studios to spacious 1-Bedroom Villas, 2-Bedroom Villas and 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, as well as Topolino’s Terrace, and new rooftop dining experience. Enjoy Italian and French Riviera dishes served along side views of nighttime spectaculars at Epcot and Hollywood Studios. While we are still waiting to hear who will host, guests will also be able to enjoy a prix-fixe character breakfast.

Disney’s Riviera Resort is projected to open December 16th, 2019.

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SIX

Mickey and Minnie’s 90th SURPRISE celebration!

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I remember watching Mickey make a surprise birthday cake for her birthday when I was 5-years-old. Talk about reliving the glory days! This year, the dynamic duo celebrates 90 years of magic on Main Street USA. In addition to some excellent dance parties, Minnie and Mickey are suited up in birthday attire for a special meet-and-greet. If ever there was an excuse for a grown woman to wear a polka dot tutu, this is it! Get there before September 30 to make it happen!

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FIVE

For the first time in – EPCOT – Forever

We’ve been hearing about the end of Illuminations for some time now. With everyone rushing to see it one final time, I would venture to say that those who get that limited window of opportunity to see “Epcot Forever” are truly the lucky ones. Debuting October 1, 2019, this limited-time nighttime show will be an all-new, spectacle of fireworks, music, lighting, lasers and choreographed, special effects kites. The show will take us on a journey through the past, present and future of Epcot. Featuring a stirring collection of songs that paint a colorful picture of the park, this nighttime extravaganza will offer both a trip down memory lane and a look towards the future and all the magical possibilities still to come.

“Epcot Forever” will continue into 2020, when the next epic nighttime extravaganza makes its debut. Keep reading Disney Parks Blog in the months ahead for more.

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FOUR

The Gondolas are coming!

I recognize that not all who take advantage of Disney transportation are excited to be transported so high in the sky with nothing but land and water below. But, I for one, canNOT wait to take a ride – or two – on Disney’s Skyliner Gondolas. I feel like it’s a bonus ride without even having to enter the parks!

Moving at a pace of 11 mph, the cables will connect Disney’s Hollywood Studios and International Gateway at Epcot to the following Resort hotels: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Riviera Resort.

Guests will be able to enjoy easy access to Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district and a fun way to travel between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Plus, the Disney Skyliner provides a relaxing trip to dining locations across Disney Resort hotels—including Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.

Although no official date has been announced, Disney reports that they will be transporting guests in Fall 2019.

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THREE

Epcot Food & Wine Festival

I really don’t feel like I need to say anything else, because if food and wine don’t get you excited, you’re reading the wrong blog. But, to further make my case for Fall 2019 being the best time to travel to WDW, this year’s Epcot Food & Wine Festival will be the longest Food & Wine Fest in the park’s history! This means you have the opportunity to experience even more of those limited time experiences AND food and wine on the SAME TRIP.

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Taking place Aug. 29-Nov. 23, this year’s festival will continue its tradition of offering tasty dishes, fine dining events, and appearances by favorite Disney culinarians and top celebrity chefs. The festival’s Eat to the Beat Concert Series will run Aug. 29-Nov. 19 and will feature a lineup of pop, rock, R&B, country, Christian, swing and Latin artists.

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TWO

Mickey’s -Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

It’s not-so-scary and it’s a must do! Where else will you find a line-up of Disney’s top villains and traditional characters adorned in their very own Halloween costumes? With enchanting entertainment, boo-tacular nighttime shows, specialty eats, trick-or-treating, and more, this special ticketed event brings out the kid in everyone! So, grab your costumes and set your course for a Hallowishes celebration!

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ONE

Do I really have to say it?

If you don’t know the number one reason to visit Disney World this fall, you’re going to need to reboot your circuits because you’ve been living on Ahch-To for too long.

In a Galaxy far, far away – just past Echo Lake and south of Toy Story Land – you’ll find droves of Jedis seeking to learn the ways of the force. Opening August 29, Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run will be the first of two rides featured at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and launch the beginning of a new obsession for park-goers around the world.

This much anticipated addition to Disney parks will offer an immersive experience for fans of all ages. Feast on galactic grub and libations, adorn yourself in authentic apparel, build droids and lightsabers, and simply take time to steal yourself away to a land where darkness and light meet.

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We’re still waiting on word for the second part of Galaxy’s Edge to open, so don’t turn your backs on the First Order just yet! Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is coming soon!

From Black Friday to Cyber Monday and beyond!

I take gift buying very seriously. So, if you’re like me and try to find the perfect gift for everyone, I’m here to help! Not only will you win the title of best gift-giver for the next decade, I’ll also wrap a nice little bow around your gift to fit it perfectly under the tree.

This year, GIVE THE GIFT OF CHEER WITH MICKEY EARS!

Now, more than ever, is the time to plan your next Disney Vacation. With some amazing additions to the Disney Parks attractions, you’ll also find unique, one-of-a-kind cruise offerings for 2019. Whether you’re looking to relax on the tropical sands in Aulani or venture to foreign lands with Adventures by Disney, I’m here to guide you from HAPPY HOLIDAYS to WELCOME HOME!

This Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Beyond, book any Disney Vacation* and recieve:

• FREE vacation planning,
• Customized itinerary,
• Professional advice along with the industry’s best tips and tricks,
• Personalized Mickey ears (Please book before December 12 – with some exceptions-to arrive in time for Christmas) to put under the Christmas tree,
• And, a personal post card from Mickey inviting your guests to vacation with him!

Book between now and Christmas to take advantage of this offer. KatieB@hihovacations.com

*Disney Vacations include a minimum of three nights with ticket package at any Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort, any Disney Cruise Line package, Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa, Adventure’s By Disney.

Ask about this offer for Universal Studios too!

The Planning Stages…

You’re ready to pull the plug on a Disney World vacation, but where do you begin? (Hopefully with a Disney vacation planning agency like Hi Ho Vacations.)

With so many things to consider – dining, fast passes, park days, special events, memory makers, transportation and more – having an outline and taking things a step at a time is the best way to keep your head from spinning like the teacups at the Mad Tea Party.

At this point, you’ve booked your resort, decided on your ticket package, and possibly added a dinning plan. You’ll also need to secure your spot by making a $200 deposit. At this point, nothing else is due until 30 days before you travel.

Now, you WRITE down your important dates:

Create reminders in your phone, post-it’s on the fridge, and write it on your calendar.

• When you can begin making your dining reservations (180 days in advance).
• When you can reserve your FastPass+ (60 days in advance).
• When you can check-in online (60 days in advance).
• When your final payment is due (30 days in advance).
• Also make note that you need to order your magic band colors. Getting mail from Mickey is super exciting and Magic Bands delivered to your home are the best! If you forget to do this, your bands will be given to you when you arrive at your resort.

Set up your My Disney Experience account:

It can take up to 24 hours for your reservation to show up in the Disney System. After that, you’ll need to register with your email and password at mydisneyexperience.com. Be sure to have your confirmation number handy, because this is how you’ll link your reservation to your account.

Once your set up with your My Disney Experience (MDE) account, its a good idea to play around and get to know where things are. If you haven’t already, you’ll want to download the app on your phone so that you can use it in the parks. You’ll be able to check wait times for attractions, modify dining reservations, pull up your itinerary, see information about special events, and snag more Fast Passes after you’ve used up your initial three passes for the day. The MDE app also features information on bus stop times and waits. This new feature is going to be especially useful when you’re trying to get to your dining reservation on time.

Plan your transportation:

Are you flying or driving? If you’re driving, keep in mind that Disney resort guests now pay to park on hotel property. The costs vary based on resort with a value resort costing $13/night, moderate resort costing $19/night, and deluxe resort costing $24/night. You can read more information online.

If you choose to fly, rest assured that you won’t need a car until you touch ground at home after your Disney vacation. Disney’s Magical Express will pick you (and your luggage) up from the airport and transport you to your resort. Just be sure to link your flight information in your MDE account so the bus will be waiting on you. In my client’s cases, I take care of linking flight information to be sure that it is done correctly. Disney will send you luggage tags that you will attach to your checked bags. Your bags will arrive at your resort within three hours after they are picked up from the airport, so be sure to pack items in your carry on that you’ll need for the day (swimsuits AND MAGIC BANDS included).

Read as little or as much as you’d like between now and 180 days before your trip.

If you have a Disney-related question, you can find an answer online. Just be sure that you pay attention to the date the information was posted. Years ago, you could meet Elsa and Anna at the Magic Kingdom, but now, if you want to meet the Frozen sisters, you’ll have to wait in line at Epcot. It would be a real run away sleigh if you wore your coronation gown to Fantasyland when you should have saved it for Norway.

Don’t stop researching, but share you goals and dreams for your Disney vacation with your travel agent. Not only will she have the most up-to-date information, but she will also help you plan out your days to ensure that you check off all of your must-do’s.

Book your dining reservations 180 days before you travel.

My clients get a list of dining options when they book their Disney vacations, but a lot of times, it ends up getting lost in inboxes. I like to check-in about a week before their dining window opens so that we can discuss their first, second, and third choices OR encourage them to take a look at dining options before their reservation window opens. Once we narrow down their dining spots, we talk a little about what days and times would be best. It’s always a good idea to take a look at the park hours when you’re dreaming up your park days. Might as well take advantage of early morning or late night magic hours whenever possible!

Snag those FastPass+ reservations 60 prior to your travel date.

You’ll get your FastPass+ advice from me as well, but in the end, you pick what works best for you or your family. Some of the hottest, new rides include Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey, Slinky Dog Dash, Toy Story Midway Mania, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Soarin’, Test Track, and Expedition Everest. If you’re planning to attend character meals, you’ll get a chance to meet some of your favorites, but don’t forget to prioritize meet and greets too.

Customize your Magic Bands.

Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, or grey. Be sure to select your colors prior to ten days before your travel. You’ll receive your bands in the mail if you’ve customized them in enough time to arrive before your trip; otherwise, you’ll be able to pick them up at the check-in desk on your arrival. Don’t forget to pack your bands in your carry-on! Once you enter the Disney bubble, those are your keys to the kingdom.

Happy planning!