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!

Let me plan your vacation – for FREE

Fail to plan, plan to spend time on hold.

One of the biggest misconceptions about working with a vacation planner to book your Disney vacations is that you have to pay additional fees. That’s simply not the case. I’m always telling potential clients that Disney pays me so you don’t have to. It’s not that you can’t do it yourself, it’s a matter of whether or not you want to study up and comb the web for deals and discounts, spend – potentially – hours on the phone and internet booking reservations, and making changes to your trip. Disney wants to you enjoy every moment of your vacation from the beginning stages to the very end when you’re downloading your photo pass photos for your memory book. As a travel agent, I’m there to help even after your return flight brings you home.

Here’s why you should let a vacation planner handle your Disney vacations for FREE…

• It’s FREE, FREE, FREE. I can’t say that enough. Many moons ago, I too, was skeptical. But, when my family first began traveling to Disney, I never once regretted booking with a planner AND I actually paid less because she knew the in’s and out’s of discounts and when to travel.
• You’ll get the best tips and tricks. Not only does your agent travel to Disney on a regular basis, she attends training and webinars with the most up-to-date information. Disney is constantly changing and it is not an easy thing for your average traveler to keep up. Don’t waste fast passes on rides that don’t have lines. Get insider information on the best table service spots and most delicious snack options.
• Customized itineraries are going to save your trip! Every family is different. If your family loves Star Wars and can pass on princesses, you’ll want to know which parks and attractions to add to your list.
• Feeling the pressure to get dining reservations and fast passes? Let me get up bright and early to snag those. At Hi Ho Vacations, we pride ourselves in making customer service our best quality and this is just one of the perks.
• Your planner is just a phone call away – even during your trip. I can fix things for you while you’re at the parks. Don’t wait to get home to share a snafu – let me know right away so Disney can fix it!
• I’ll price monitor details for your vacation up until the day you leave. While booking early ensures you get the best deal, discounts and add-ons often pop-up after you’ve booked your vacation. Don’t worry about keeping an eye out for those yourself. I’m constantly checking Disney for these things and I know who qualifies and if it’s going to give you the biggest bang for your buck.
• Decided to bring the grandparents along after all? Want to dine with some friends who happen to be in the area the same time you are? We can make changes to your reservation if you just ask! It isn’t always easy, so let me handle to tough stuff and link your parties without the hassle!

If you’re still not convinced, let’s chat! You honestly have nothing to lose! You can be in charge of as little or as much of you planning as you’d like. I’m here to guide to along the way. Consider me your personal concierge.

Contact me at Katieb@hihovacations.com.

RUN, don’t walk, to runDisney events.

Getting your steps in at Disney is pretty much guaranteed. But, when you’re ready to take it to the next level, a runDisney event may be in order.

Where do you begin? I’d say there are two routes to go: 1) Pick and race that tickles your fancy, or 2) decide what time of year you want to travel.

Disney World Marathon
January 9-13, 2019
Registration opens July 10, 2018 at noon ET/ 9 am PT

First up, and probably the most recognizable event is the Disney World Marathon Weekend. Don’t let the word Marathon intimidate you if 26.2 is outside of your endurance zone. This is, however, the only Walt Disney World marathon available. You also have the option of completing a half-marathon, 10k, 5k, and even entering the kids in their own race. Each event takes place on a different day so that just in case you have it in you, you can complete the Goofy Challenge (complete the full and half marathon) or the Dopey Challenge (complete the full marathon, half marathon, 10k, and 5k events). This weekend-long event takes place the beginning of January (right after the kiddos return to school from winter break). In 2019, the dates are January 9-13. Be sure to stay on top of when registration opens (July 10 at noon ET/9 am PT) to secure your spot!

Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
February 21-24, 2019
Registration opens August 7, 2018 at noon ET/ 9 am PT

You’re cordially invited to the royal running event of the year! The Disney Princess Half Marathon is a race fit for princesses and princes. The course includes guest appearances from princesses and your traditionally fabulous Disney entertainment. In addition to a 13.1 mile course, you’ll have the option of completing a 10k, 5k, or the Disney Fairy Tale Challenge – (half marathon and 10k in one weekend!). A Kids Run will also take place of all of the little prince and princesses.

Star Wars Rival Run Weekend
April 4-7, 2019
Registration opens August 28, 2018 at noon ET/ 9 am PT

Let the power of the force send you to a galaxy far, far away – or maybe just 13.1 miles through the Magic Kingdom to Epcot. The Star Wars Rival Run Weekend is a springtime event that will feature all of your favorite Star Wars characters along the course. If a half marathon doesn’t tickle your circuit board, choose to run the 10k or 5k. Show your true light or dark side with the Star Wars Rival Run Challenge – complete the 10k and half marathon!

Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend
November 1-4, 2018
Registration is open!

If you can’t wait for 2019 races,  I have good news for you. The Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend still has spots available for 2018. Making it easy to burn off those exclusive Food and Wine Festival dinner calories, the half marthon, 10k, 5k, or half/5k combo is available to full-fill all your foodie dreams! November is also a great time to visit the parks because you’ll get to take advantage of cooler temps.

*If swag is what you’re looking for, you’ll get medals; you’ll get t-shirts; you’ll get after parties; and you’ll get exclusive access to your favorite characters and photos! Read the links to find out more.

Before you go…

Training for the race is all you need to do when you have a Disney Vacation planner on your side. Let me help you choose your resort, and when you schedule your rest days for FREE. After all, this is still your dream vacation! Race you to the finish…

Ch-EARS!
Katie

 

 

 

 

 

Dads and Disney

We’re a family of four. With two rowdy boys (ages 5 and 8), we have to keep busy or our house will probably fall apart. Enter: the Disney Family Vacation. My husband was the one who took the Disney dive and planned our first trip more than three years ago. So, in honor of him and the upcoming Father’s Day holiday, I’m sharing a whammy of a gift idea.

When you book certain Disney packages by August 1 (and travel by August 30), you’ll save up to 20% on your Disney vacation!

I don’t know about you, but letting my hubs have an extra excuse to act like a kid would be the ultimate Father’s Day. And, to top it off, Disney is rolling out some pretty awesome attractions this summer, including Toy Story Land on June 30.

And, let’s not forget Mr. Incredible, himself…

With “Incredibles 2” coming to theaters on June 15, you’d better believe that Disney is going to streeeeeeeetch out all the guest appearances from you favorite superhero family. You’ll find them, along with Edna Mode in Tomorrowland (check out the delicious Incredibles-inspired food you can find) at the Magic Kingdom.

Other exciting guest appearances include Guardians of the Galaxy’s Star-Lord and Gamora in Epcot and a new “UP!” show in Animal Kingdom.

And finally, let me tell you from experience, summer is a great time to visit the park! You’ll see a dramatic decrease in crowds as opposed to other times throughout the year. Florida is always warm, and so long as you prepare and plan for a little pool time, the discounts and ease you experience are well worth a few more degrees!

Anyone who books this offer with me and mentions by blog post, gets a free gift!

Ch-EARS!