Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
October 1, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
NOTE: If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Walt Disney World room discount and vacation package for the general public, new Disney/Florida sweepstakes, Disney cruise discounts, Florida attraction discounts, and Universal CityWalk deal
* News from around the "World" - Pixie Hollow to open at Mickey's Toontown Fair
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about ticket upgrades, national cruise month and Disney dining reservations
* Cynthia sent us her review of the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Review
* Alain has some last minute questions about his Disney vacation
* Disney Planner: January-April 2009
* Tinker Bell Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to Her New Fairy Friends
* The All New Disneyland Birthday Club Delivers A Virtual Party Right To Your Computer
* Celebrate Halloween Time At Disneyland Resort With Family Fun, Haunted Mansion Holiday And Disney's Happiest Haunt Tours
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
2 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 45 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Walt Disney World Vacation Fall Package for Everyone! Dining plans may be added.
Walt Disney World Fall Room Discount for Everyone! Value resorts from $59; Moderate resorts from $109.
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from $349
* 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from $449
* 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from $849
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NEW FLORIDA ATTRACTION DISCOUNTS
* Sweet Glides Segway Tours
* Wonder Works
* Wet 'n Wild
* Cypress Gardens
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UNIVERSAL CITYWALK
Details on how you can use your Walt Disney World Pleasure Island Pass at Universal's CityWalk for FREE!
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Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!
>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $399!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
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If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here. Members can use the following URLs to log in:
Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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Disney's Super Soap Weekend won't be back after this year
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Pleasure Island's grand finale
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Disney plans huge bowling alley
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Chicken Saltimbocca Sandwich recipe from the Swan and Dolphin Resort
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"The Disney Fairies are a new set of characters, developed for books, movies, Internet games and merchandise that expand the role of the always-popular Tinker Bell." Pixie Hollow, a walk-through attraction that features the fairies, will open October 24 at Mickey's Toontown Fair. Disney is also renaming its Wide World of Sports complex ESPN Wide World of Sports. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/25/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Avoid Wandering Kids at Disneyland _ Plan Ahead
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message, search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain newspapers require a free registration to view their articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than one line, copy and paste all lines.
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Beth, our travel agent, writes:
"Disney does a lot of things - most everything, in fact - really, really well. They fall a bit short with their package documents, though, when it comes to explanations. There isn't a week that goes by that I don't get someone saying they just got their documents and there were no tickets inside. Some folks are nearly panicked over it! In Disney's defense, if you read the fine print, it does indicate that certain package inclusions are presented on arrival - and tickets are noted as such. Let's face it, though... You get pretty excited when the documents arrive and reading all the tiny print isn't a high priority! So here's the deal: your tickets are encoded right into your room keys on arrival. So is access to your dining credits. That way, you carry only one item for each person: the Key to the Kingdom. If you're doing a land/sea package with Disney Cruise Line, that Key also serves as your stateroom access key.
And while I'm thinking about it, let me also make mention of the upgrade of your tickets. When you buy a package everyone in the room needs to select the same ticket. (At least for now; there's rumor that they may change that at some point.) Sometimes you have people in the party that will be doing things elsewhere - attending a meeting, for instance. Other times, you might have a person or two that have leftover ticket days from a previous trip. Those people don't need as many admission days as the rest of their party. Not to worry! Book the package with the minimum number of ticket days needed by the entire party. Once you arrive, you can individually adjust the tickets and you'll only be charged the difference in price. For instance, you can add the Water Park Fun n' More option for just part of the family, or you can add hopping for just a few. You can add extra days or even make just some of the tickets non-expiring... whatever you want. One warning, though: you MUST do this while the tickets are still valid. You can't wait until they've been used up and then add to them. You can make these ticket changes at any ticket window or at your Disney resort front desk.
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Don't' forget that October is NATIONAL CRUISE VACATION MONTH, the highlight of which is The World's Largest Cruise Night on October 16. Last year, nearly 35,000 cruise bookings nationwide were made as part of the event! The event is sponsored by Cruise Lines International Organization (CLIA) and nearly every major cruise line is a member. They'll all be offering specials like reduced rates, lower deposit requirements, onboard credits, free air, and so on.
This is a great time to be planning your 2009 cruise vacation. Next year there are a LOT of new ships hitting the market, so if you've never cruised before it's the perfect time to start. Cruising remains one of the very best vacation values available. As soon as we get the details on what the lines will be offering I'll pass it on, but in the meantime feel free to let me know if you have questions about cruising. I'll be running the 'virtual' version of this event, so make a note on your calendar and plan to spend some time online that evening when you get home from work. (Actually, the event runs all day long, so I can get your information in advance if it's more convenient for you.)
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WHAT'S UP WITH DISNEY DINING??? I know I mentioned it before, but just to reiterate: Disney is changing the dining reservation system to enable you to book dining online. In preparation for that change-over (tentatively scheduled to debut in November) reservations cannot currently be made beyond February 22. The change does not effect Victoria & Albert's, Cinderella's Royal Table, and Chef Mickey's; you will still be able to book those 180 days in advance by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE. Once the new system is up and running, the 180 day rule will return for the rest of the dining venues.
Also, please, please, please don't forget to make your dining reservations as early as possible. That means as soon as you know that you'll be traveling to Disney World. If you wait until you arrive you will have little (if anything) to choose from, particularly over busy periods. Reservations are needed for ALL character meals, dinner shows, and sit-down meal locations whether you have a dining plan or not! I cannot stress this enough. (I know, I know... You didn't make reservations for your trip five years ago and getting in was no problem. Well, things have changed. MAKE RESERVATIONS!)"
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Cynthia writes:
"Dear John,
As promised, here is our review of the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Review dinner show. We had a party of five, all adults, mothers/daughters and friends. We had category 2 seating and could see the stage pretty well. The show is absolutely slap-stick and cornball humor; but, with our group of ladies it was great fun. The singer/dancers are very talented and do a good job delivering their corny lines and moving the show along. They also interact with the audience and leave the stage from time to time to put the spot light on an audience member and provide him/her with a friendly moment of embarrassment... it’s all in fun and everyone seemed to enjoy it.
The food is terrific. When you get to your table you’ll find a cool bowl of salad and a hot slab of cornbread awaiting you. Both are very good, but the cornbread was exceptional. After some music and comedy, the next round is brought out, which consist of fried chicken, baby-back ribs, mashed potatoes, and baked beans. At this point, my only disappointment was that there were no more vegetables to enjoy... I guess the salad is enough for most, but I would’ve liked another veggie on the menu. Even so, everything that was served to us was tasty and perfectly prepared. We had seconds on the ribs, and ate two slabs of cornbread; it was so good! The show resumed as we were finishing up the main course, then we were served strawberry shortcake for dessert. Again, we were surprised at how good it was. Everything we ate had a homemade quality, and we enjoyed all of it.
The only negative to our evening at the Hoop Dee Doo, is that we didn’t know that we had to transfer to a bus indie the Ft. Wilderness campground to get there. I was told that we could drive to Pioneer Hall for the show, and envisioned a different scenario. When we got to Ft. Wilderness there was a parking lot and a kennel, and no real signage to direct us. We drove to another entrance to be told that we needed to go back there and catch a bus to the Hoop Dee Doo Review. Because of the confusion we were behind schedule, and some of our group literally had to run to catch the bus while the last two came as quickly as possible with a wheelchair. If you’re planning to attend, give yourself plenty of time for the bus transfer.
All in all, the Hoop Dee Doo Review turned out to be a highlight of our trip. We had dined at Narcoosee’s (another highlight) the night before, and we laughed about how different the two evenings were. Both enjoyable, in differing ways, and both we will do again."
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Alain writes:
"Hi John,
In your book you mention American Express White Glove Treatment. What exactly is 'white glove treatment' and which is now the 'preferred' credit card at WDW? What would 'preferred' do? Thanks."
>> The preferred card now is Disney's Visa Rewards card. Members get discounts on rooms and packages at various times during the year. We discuss the card in the first chapter of the book.
Years ago American Express offered crayons and coloring book and some type of plastic pouch at check-in. They used to offer discounts as well. Beth mentions that you may still receive something at check-in when using your AEx card.
"You wrote: With the Magic Your Way with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun & More Ticket, you can remain all day in any of the parks on check-out day and use Disney transportation. Does this mean we can get in for free on the last day we are there or does it simply mean we can stay in the park all day even though we have checked out?"
>> You can stay in the park after you have checked out.
"I was thinking of taking some time to tour the resorts with my 11 year old daughter when we visit WDW this December. I looked thru your book and highlighted a number of activities that the resorts offer. I have 2 questions:
1. Would a resort tour be boring for a pre-teen?"
>> Not if you visit the All Stars (especially Movies!) and Pop Century. We still love those whimsical resorts!
"2. Are we allowed, if we're staying at Value Resorts, to partake in the activities or use the amenities of the other resorts? Thanks."
>> The only restrictions I know of are pools: Pool-hopping is permitted at the Yacht and Beach Club, Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter, All Star Resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin.
"You mention that a 'Passport to Savings' coupon book is available from the Downtown Disney Resort Hotels....can I stop by and pick one up if I am staying at the AllStar Resort or are they reserved for their guests only?"
>> It is only for guests staying at a Downtown Disney hotel and you must ask for it at check in.
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Disney Planner: January-April 2009 - Celebratory Spirit Reigns at Walt Disney World with Floral-Fest, Braves Baseball, Disney’s Dreamers and Magical Marathoners
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The party’s ready to begin at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida with a Disney Parks "first" - guests can get free admission to a Disney theme park on their birthday in 2009. It’s all part of a travel trend called "celebration vacations," with Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort asking guests "What Will You Celebrate?" throughout the year.
But that’s not the only cause for celebration.
In early 2009, Walt Disney World Resort will bloom with bursting color during the 16th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival; host 100 exemplary teens from across the country in a one-of-a-kind enrichment workshop; once again host the Atlanta Braves on its "field of dreams" at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex; and be the site for the 26 most magical miles on Earth for the Disney Marathon Weekend.
Here’s a snapshot at what’s springing up in early 2009 across the Florida Vacation Kingdom:
Disney Parks Extend ‘Celebration Vacation’ Travel Trend: Beginning Jan. 1, 2009, Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will invite guests to celebrate their lives’ special moments - large and small - with family and friends at the place where dreams come true. New research shows that families are planning trips with loved ones around life’s special moments, memories and milestones.
It’s a newly identified, national trend dubbed by experts as "celebration vacations."
Crowning the celebration is a Disney Parks first: Guests can receive free admission to one of the Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks on their birthday in 2009. All it takes is a valid ID including proof of birth date. (Guests who already hold a multi-day ticket or an annual pass that they will use on their birthday can choose an alternate birthday treat instead, but will not be entitled to a cash refund or credit.) Guests can get more details and start the process by registering their birthdays at www.disneyparks.com.
New for 2009 will be high-energy in-park parties, new Web planning tools - to make it easier for guests to customize their celebration - custom cakes, floral arrangements and dining options, and magical experiences stretching across Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival:An elaborate "Cinderellabration" topiary featuring four Disney princesses dressed in "blooming" finery will set the scene for the 16th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 18-May 31.
Cinderella and Prince Charming, Snow White and the seven dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Prince Phillip, and Belle and Beast from "Beauty and the Beast" will debut as the grand front-entrance topiary during the 75-day festival. Princess Ariel from "The Little Mermaid" also will greet guests by the front-entrance fountain.
And that’s just the beginning. More than 70 topiaries in all showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship of Disney gardeners will dot the park landscape. Sweeping floral beds and exhibits will feature 30 million blooms. The art of bonsai will "wow" guests at the Japan showcase, and a large "green" garden between France and Morocco pavilions will reveal the many ways home gardeners can "go green" with their own landscapes.
Festival highlights also will include:
# Disney Gardening at Home presentations: Disney horticulturists share gardening tips and lead guests in a hands-on, take-home activity.
# The Great American Gardeners series: Gardening celebrities and authors from across the country will share their gardening secrets.
# The Garden Town festival center: Guests can shop for festival merchandise, attend speaker presentations and demonstrations and ask gardening questions of the experts.
# The family-oriented Growing Future Gardeners: A garden of delight where kids and parents can get colorful (and tasty) planting ideas.
# Kids’ activities and character meet-and-greets.
# Flower Power concerts: Popular bands rock the open-air America Gardens Theatre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. The concert lineup is slated to include Davy Jones, Paul Revere & the Raiders, Jose Feliciano and other top acts.
More information about the 16th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available by calling 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or by visiting disneyworld.com/flower (beginning February 2009). The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission.
Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex: Major League Baseball’s Atlanta Braves return to Champion Stadium for their 12th edition of Spring Training at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in March 2009.
The 2009 schedule is expected to feature the most appealing slate of opponents since the Braves arrived in 1997, along with all-new entertainment and guest experiences, including the opportunity to view pre-game batting practice from field level.
Last spring, the Braves finished 10-5-1 at Champion Stadium, with three of the top all-time home crowds at Disney, on the way to ranking second only to the New York Yankees in Grapefruit League attendance.
Individual game tickets for the Braves’ home spring training season go on sale Saturday, Jan. 10, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster (407/839-3900 and www.ticketmaster.com). Information on the Braves’ spring training season, group tickets and mini-packs is available by calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at www.disneysports.com.
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend: The upcoming Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by CIGNA will be held Jan. 8-11, 2009, and features approximately 45,000 runners entered in the Walt Disney World Marathon, Walt Disney World Half Marathon and Family Fun Run 5K and Kids’ Races.
The Walt Disney World Half Marathon is a 13.1-mile course that will take runners on Saturday from Epcot to Magic Kingdom and then back to Epcot for the finish.
On Sunday, the 26.2-mile Walt Disney World Marathon will pass through all four Walt Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios) and finish back at Epcot. It’s been called the "26 Most Magical Miles on Earth," and features Disney entertainment along the route.
The 2009 Walt Disney World Half Marathon is currently sold out. Those interested in participating in the 2010 race can find more information at www.disneysports.com. Guests wanting to see if registration is still available for the marathon event and the Family Fun Run 5K should check www.disneysports.com for the latest updates. Both events are also expected to sell out.
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend currently ranks as one of the popular endurance events in the United States.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey: One-hundred teens from across the country with big dreams and aspirations will be celebrated during Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, Feb. 12-15, 2009, at Walt Disney World Resort.
An event created to inspire and enrich high school students, Disney’s Dreamers Academy will include workshops with Disney cast members and executives, sessions with entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and time to enjoy the Disney theme parks - where student participants can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as "Disney dreamers."
The participants will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports and more.
During the inaugural Disney’s Dreamers Academy in January 2008, some of the special guest speakers included Disney Channel star Kyle Massey, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pro Bowl linebacker Derrick Brooks, "American Idol" champion Fantasia, pop/R&B recording artist Keyshia Cole, Chef Jeff Henderson and ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith. In addition to hosting the event, Harvey also held interactive workshops and presentations for the teens.
The Disney’s Dreamers Academy class of 2009 will be made up of teens chosen by a panel of judges including Harvey, community leaders and Disney executives.
Harvey said Disney’s Dreamers Academy "is about inspiring our young people who often times don’t have the chance to be exposed to a variety of job skills and job opportunities and meet with people in the fields they’re interested in. We want to give our young achievers the tools to become overachievers - to make their dreams a reality."
For more information, guests can go to www.SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy. (Source: Press Release, 09/30/08)
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Disney’s Favorite Pixie, Tinker Bell, Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to Her New Fairy Friends
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- To celebrate the animated film "Tinker Bell," Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in a meet-and-greet experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.
To meet Tinker Bell and her fairy friends, guests enter a magical forest called "Pixie Hollow," a special place deep in the heart of Never Land.
Tinker Bell, made famous in the 1953 Disney animated classic "Peter Pan," for her "hostess" role in Disney television specials and for "flying" above the Disney theme parks, is joined inside Pixie Hollow by four fairy friends: Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy.
In addition to meeting the Fairies at Magic Kingdom, guests can learn more about the Disney Fairies at www.disneyfairies.com.
And if Tinker Bell doesn’t "ring a bell" or jog a memory, here are some "fun fairy facts" about the sprightly pixie:
# Tinker Bell debuted at Walt Disney World Resort in 1971, as the classic attraction Peter Pan’s Flight opened in Fantasyland. The beloved attraction immerses guests in the "Peter Pan" story as passengers board flying pirate ships bound for Never Land.
# Tinker Bell began "flying" from high atop Cinderella Castle in 1985. Since then, she has taken her flight thousands of times to light the sky with magical fireworks.
# Tinker Bell made her Walt Disney World parade debut in 2007. She made that premiere appearance atop a float in "Disney’s Enchanted Adventures Parade," an entertainment extravaganza during Disney’s Pirate and Princess Party.
# Tinker Bell merchandise continually ranks among the top sellers of character-based merchandise at Walt Disney World Resort. (Source: Press Release, 09/25/08)
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The All New Disneyland Birthday Club Delivers A Virtual Party Right To Your Computer
As part of Disney Parks "What Will You Celebrate?" campaign, Disney fans of all ages will now be able to celebrate their birthdays with a personalized virtual party delivered right to their computers.
The all-new Disneyland Birthday Club, available online, adds to the fun of the magical offer announced on Sept. 18: Everyone who visits a Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free.
The Disneyland Birthday Club is a virtual club that offers Disney fans a complimentary Virtual Birthday Party via e-mail. After registering at www.Disneyland.com/BirthdayClub, they'll receive a "Happy Birthday" e-mail with birthday greetings from one of their favorite Disney characters, complete with "virtual" balloons and streamers, catchy birthday music and even a fantasy birthday cake with candles to "blow out," along with some additional birthday surprises.
The Disneyland Birthday Club Web site features birthday party planning tips, available upon registration.
The Disneyland Birthday Club is an at-home online feature, free with registration. Guests can also opt to join the Club when they register for the "Free On Your Birthday" ticket using the "What Will You Celebrate" link at www.Disneyland.com. Guests can begin using "Free On Your Birthday" tickets on Jan. 1, 2009.
Disneyland Birthday Club registration is now open. The first birthday e-mails will be sent in November. A Spanish-language version of the Birthday Club site, www.DisneylandEspanol.com/BirthdayClub, will go online in late September.
The offer for free admission on your birthday in 2009 is also good at Walt Disney World Resort, as Disney Parks embraces a new trend in family travel called "celebration vacations." This newly identified national trend shows that American families are hitting the road to mark life’s special occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, reunions and more - with a "celebration vacation."
In 2009, Disney Parks will champion this growing trend with new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences. Disney presented the trend to guests with a first-ever opportunity to visit free on their birthday.
"Birthdays are the one occasion that we all share every year," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, at an announcement event today in New York. "We thought a free birthday ticket would be the icing on the cake as we extend this new ‘celebration vacation’ trend to Disney Parks."
To help guests plan their celebrations, the magic-makers at Disney are prepared to make it easier than ever for guests to plan celebrations large and small, customizing and personalizing each experience. New Web tools can help customize any celebration. (Source: Press Release, 09/23/08)
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Celebrate Halloween Time At Disneyland Resort With Family Fun, Haunted Mansion Holiday And Disney's Happiest Haunt Tours
Anaheim, Calif. - Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort will fill Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks with not-so-scary spook-tacular entertainment beginning Friday, Sept. 26 and continuing through Sunday, November 2.
The season of tricks and treats will be celebrated at Disneyland Resort with the traditional giant "Mickey Mouse" jack-o’-lantern in Disneyland Town Square, Haunted Mansion Holiday in New Orleans Square and Candy Corn Acres in Disney’s California Adventure, along with festive foods, a lively mix of Disney characters in Halloween costumes and year two of Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tours.
During regular park hours at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort offers parents and children plenty of family-friendly fun in addition to the parks’ many popular adventures. Halloween Time activities include special shows, meet-and-greets with Disneyland characters in spirited costumes, along with opportunities to decorate Halloween cookies and listen to storytellers at "Woody’s Halloween Roundup" at Big Thunder Ranch.
Dedicated fans of Halloween and the Disney parks will want to sign up to experience all the "hot and cold running chills" of the season on Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour, an expanded version of the Halloween tour launched in 2007. From Sept. 26 to Oct. 31, the three-hour Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour will be offered twice a day, beginning at the "witching hours" of 5:15 and 5:30 p.m. The tour, conducted by a "unique" Disneyland Resort tour guide, includes the stories behind some of Disney parks’ spookiest attractions, told from the perspective of Disney villains. Stops at thrilling attractions including the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Haunted Mansion Holiday, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Snow White’s Scary Adventure are among the highlights of the tour.
Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour is darkly humorous and spooky and is not recommended for young children or for those who might not enjoy the featured attractions (or might not meet the 40-inch height requirement for Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad). The tour fee is $59 and does not include park admission. Guests who take the tour receive an exclusive collectible remembrance and a Halloween treat. Each tour group has a maximum size of 20 guests. Tours may be booked up to 20 days in advance by calling (714) 781-4400.
Popular, family-friendly entertainment also returns for the Halloween season. At Disney’s California Adventure Sunshine Plaza is the Candy Corn Acres, where Mickey Mouse’s pal Goofy sets out to grow the West’s biggest and most unusual candy corn, including candy corn coconuts, candy corn carrots and candy corn pumpkins. The Plaza will be overgrown with the "fruits" of Goofy’s labor.
Also returning for the season is Haunted Mansion Holiday. Inspired by the innovative animated film, Tim Burton’s "Nightmare Before Christmas," Haunted Mansion Holiday comes to life when Jack Skellington and his friends create holiday mayhem at the Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square.
A perfect way to celebrate Halloween in special Disney style is the one-of-a-kind Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party. This private costume party lets little ones laugh and play with some of their favorite Disney Characters - including Mickey himself - and ride select attractions as they trick-or-treat through Disney’s California Adventure park. The experience also includes interactive games, "spirited" music, and a nightly character cavalcade. It’s an unforgettable evening of Halloween fun for everyone. Dates for Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party are Oct. 3, 10, 16. 17, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31. Tickets are $29 per person when purchased at least one day in advance, $37 per person for tickets purchased day-of and for all Oct. 31 tickets. They may be purchased online at www.disneyland.com or by calling (714) 781-4400.
Throughout the Disneyland Resort during Halloween Time, families can enjoy unique Halloween-themed food items including Zero’s Ghostly Ghoulash, a favorite of Jack Skellington’s pet in "Haunted Mansion Holiday," and merchandise including Disney costumes, collectible pins and coins and a special set of Halloween-themed Mickey Mouse ears resembling the Mickey jack-o’-lantern in Town Square.
For more information about Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort and new attractions, visit www.disneyland.com/halloween. (Source: Press Release, 09/25/08)
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
October 1, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
NOTE: If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Walt Disney World room discount and vacation package for the general public, new Disney/Florida sweepstakes, Disney cruise discounts, Florida attraction discounts, and Universal CityWalk deal
* News from around the "World" - Pixie Hollow to open at Mickey's Toontown Fair
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about ticket upgrades, national cruise month and Disney dining reservations
* Cynthia sent us her review of the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Review
* Alain has some last minute questions about his Disney vacation
* Disney Planner: January-April 2009
* Tinker Bell Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to Her New Fairy Friends
* The All New Disneyland Birthday Club Delivers A Virtual Party Right To Your Computer
* Celebrate Halloween Time At Disneyland Resort With Family Fun, Haunted Mansion Holiday And Disney's Happiest Haunt Tours
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
2 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 45 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Walt Disney World Vacation Fall Package for Everyone! Dining plans may be added.
Walt Disney World Fall Room Discount for Everyone! Value resorts from $59; Moderate resorts from $109.
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from $349
* 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from $449
* 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from $849
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NEW FLORIDA ATTRACTION DISCOUNTS
* Sweet Glides Segway Tours
* Wonder Works
* Wet 'n Wild
* Cypress Gardens
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UNIVERSAL CITYWALK
Details on how you can use your Walt Disney World Pleasure Island Pass at Universal's CityWalk for FREE!
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Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!
>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $399!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
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If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here. Members can use the following URLs to log in:
Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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Disney's Super Soap Weekend won't be back after this year
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Pleasure Island's grand finale
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Disney plans huge bowling alley
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Chicken Saltimbocca Sandwich recipe from the Swan and Dolphin Resort
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"The Disney Fairies are a new set of characters, developed for books, movies, Internet games and merchandise that expand the role of the always-popular Tinker Bell." Pixie Hollow, a walk-through attraction that features the fairies, will open October 24 at Mickey's Toontown Fair. Disney is also renaming its Wide World of Sports complex ESPN Wide World of Sports. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 09/25/08)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Avoid Wandering Kids at Disneyland _ Plan Ahead
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message, search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain newspapers require a free registration to view their articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than one line, copy and paste all lines.
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Beth, our travel agent, writes:
"Disney does a lot of things - most everything, in fact - really, really well. They fall a bit short with their package documents, though, when it comes to explanations. There isn't a week that goes by that I don't get someone saying they just got their documents and there were no tickets inside. Some folks are nearly panicked over it! In Disney's defense, if you read the fine print, it does indicate that certain package inclusions are presented on arrival - and tickets are noted as such. Let's face it, though... You get pretty excited when the documents arrive and reading all the tiny print isn't a high priority! So here's the deal: your tickets are encoded right into your room keys on arrival. So is access to your dining credits. That way, you carry only one item for each person: the Key to the Kingdom. If you're doing a land/sea package with Disney Cruise Line, that Key also serves as your stateroom access key.
And while I'm thinking about it, let me also make mention of the upgrade of your tickets. When you buy a package everyone in the room needs to select the same ticket. (At least for now; there's rumor that they may change that at some point.) Sometimes you have people in the party that will be doing things elsewhere - attending a meeting, for instance. Other times, you might have a person or two that have leftover ticket days from a previous trip. Those people don't need as many admission days as the rest of their party. Not to worry! Book the package with the minimum number of ticket days needed by the entire party. Once you arrive, you can individually adjust the tickets and you'll only be charged the difference in price. For instance, you can add the Water Park Fun n' More option for just part of the family, or you can add hopping for just a few. You can add extra days or even make just some of the tickets non-expiring... whatever you want. One warning, though: you MUST do this while the tickets are still valid. You can't wait until they've been used up and then add to them. You can make these ticket changes at any ticket window or at your Disney resort front desk.
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Don't' forget that October is NATIONAL CRUISE VACATION MONTH, the highlight of which is The World's Largest Cruise Night on October 16. Last year, nearly 35,000 cruise bookings nationwide were made as part of the event! The event is sponsored by Cruise Lines International Organization (CLIA) and nearly every major cruise line is a member. They'll all be offering specials like reduced rates, lower deposit requirements, onboard credits, free air, and so on.
This is a great time to be planning your 2009 cruise vacation. Next year there are a LOT of new ships hitting the market, so if you've never cruised before it's the perfect time to start. Cruising remains one of the very best vacation values available. As soon as we get the details on what the lines will be offering I'll pass it on, but in the meantime feel free to let me know if you have questions about cruising. I'll be running the 'virtual' version of this event, so make a note on your calendar and plan to spend some time online that evening when you get home from work. (Actually, the event runs all day long, so I can get your information in advance if it's more convenient for you.)
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WHAT'S UP WITH DISNEY DINING??? I know I mentioned it before, but just to reiterate: Disney is changing the dining reservation system to enable you to book dining online. In preparation for that change-over (tentatively scheduled to debut in November) reservations cannot currently be made beyond February 22. The change does not effect Victoria & Albert's, Cinderella's Royal Table, and Chef Mickey's; you will still be able to book those 180 days in advance by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE. Once the new system is up and running, the 180 day rule will return for the rest of the dining venues.
Also, please, please, please don't forget to make your dining reservations as early as possible. That means as soon as you know that you'll be traveling to Disney World. If you wait until you arrive you will have little (if anything) to choose from, particularly over busy periods. Reservations are needed for ALL character meals, dinner shows, and sit-down meal locations whether you have a dining plan or not! I cannot stress this enough. (I know, I know... You didn't make reservations for your trip five years ago and getting in was no problem. Well, things have changed. MAKE RESERVATIONS!)"
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Cynthia writes:
"Dear John,
As promised, here is our review of the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Review dinner show. We had a party of five, all adults, mothers/daughters and friends. We had category 2 seating and could see the stage pretty well. The show is absolutely slap-stick and cornball humor; but, with our group of ladies it was great fun. The singer/dancers are very talented and do a good job delivering their corny lines and moving the show along. They also interact with the audience and leave the stage from time to time to put the spot light on an audience member and provide him/her with a friendly moment of embarrassment... it’s all in fun and everyone seemed to enjoy it.
The food is terrific. When you get to your table you’ll find a cool bowl of salad and a hot slab of cornbread awaiting you. Both are very good, but the cornbread was exceptional. After some music and comedy, the next round is brought out, which consist of fried chicken, baby-back ribs, mashed potatoes, and baked beans. At this point, my only disappointment was that there were no more vegetables to enjoy... I guess the salad is enough for most, but I would’ve liked another veggie on the menu. Even so, everything that was served to us was tasty and perfectly prepared. We had seconds on the ribs, and ate two slabs of cornbread; it was so good! The show resumed as we were finishing up the main course, then we were served strawberry shortcake for dessert. Again, we were surprised at how good it was. Everything we ate had a homemade quality, and we enjoyed all of it.
The only negative to our evening at the Hoop Dee Doo, is that we didn’t know that we had to transfer to a bus indie the Ft. Wilderness campground to get there. I was told that we could drive to Pioneer Hall for the show, and envisioned a different scenario. When we got to Ft. Wilderness there was a parking lot and a kennel, and no real signage to direct us. We drove to another entrance to be told that we needed to go back there and catch a bus to the Hoop Dee Doo Review. Because of the confusion we were behind schedule, and some of our group literally had to run to catch the bus while the last two came as quickly as possible with a wheelchair. If you’re planning to attend, give yourself plenty of time for the bus transfer.
All in all, the Hoop Dee Doo Review turned out to be a highlight of our trip. We had dined at Narcoosee’s (another highlight) the night before, and we laughed about how different the two evenings were. Both enjoyable, in differing ways, and both we will do again."
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Alain writes:
"Hi John,
In your book you mention American Express White Glove Treatment. What exactly is 'white glove treatment' and which is now the 'preferred' credit card at WDW? What would 'preferred' do? Thanks."
>> The preferred card now is Disney's Visa Rewards card. Members get discounts on rooms and packages at various times during the year. We discuss the card in the first chapter of the book.
Years ago American Express offered crayons and coloring book and some type of plastic pouch at check-in. They used to offer discounts as well. Beth mentions that you may still receive something at check-in when using your AEx card.
"You wrote: With the Magic Your Way with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun & More Ticket, you can remain all day in any of the parks on check-out day and use Disney transportation. Does this mean we can get in for free on the last day we are there or does it simply mean we can stay in the park all day even though we have checked out?"
>> You can stay in the park after you have checked out.
"I was thinking of taking some time to tour the resorts with my 11 year old daughter when we visit WDW this December. I looked thru your book and highlighted a number of activities that the resorts offer. I have 2 questions:
1. Would a resort tour be boring for a pre-teen?"
>> Not if you visit the All Stars (especially Movies!) and Pop Century. We still love those whimsical resorts!
"2. Are we allowed, if we're staying at Value Resorts, to partake in the activities or use the amenities of the other resorts? Thanks."
>> The only restrictions I know of are pools: Pool-hopping is permitted at the Yacht and Beach Club, Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter, All Star Resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin.
"You mention that a 'Passport to Savings' coupon book is available from the Downtown Disney Resort Hotels....can I stop by and pick one up if I am staying at the AllStar Resort or are they reserved for their guests only?"
>> It is only for guests staying at a Downtown Disney hotel and you must ask for it at check in.
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Disney Planner: January-April 2009 - Celebratory Spirit Reigns at Walt Disney World with Floral-Fest, Braves Baseball, Disney’s Dreamers and Magical Marathoners
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The party’s ready to begin at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida with a Disney Parks "first" - guests can get free admission to a Disney theme park on their birthday in 2009. It’s all part of a travel trend called "celebration vacations," with Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort asking guests "What Will You Celebrate?" throughout the year.
But that’s not the only cause for celebration.
In early 2009, Walt Disney World Resort will bloom with bursting color during the 16th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival; host 100 exemplary teens from across the country in a one-of-a-kind enrichment workshop; once again host the Atlanta Braves on its "field of dreams" at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex; and be the site for the 26 most magical miles on Earth for the Disney Marathon Weekend.
Here’s a snapshot at what’s springing up in early 2009 across the Florida Vacation Kingdom:
Disney Parks Extend ‘Celebration Vacation’ Travel Trend: Beginning Jan. 1, 2009, Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will invite guests to celebrate their lives’ special moments - large and small - with family and friends at the place where dreams come true. New research shows that families are planning trips with loved ones around life’s special moments, memories and milestones.
It’s a newly identified, national trend dubbed by experts as "celebration vacations."
Crowning the celebration is a Disney Parks first: Guests can receive free admission to one of the Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks on their birthday in 2009. All it takes is a valid ID including proof of birth date. (Guests who already hold a multi-day ticket or an annual pass that they will use on their birthday can choose an alternate birthday treat instead, but will not be entitled to a cash refund or credit.) Guests can get more details and start the process by registering their birthdays at www.disneyparks.com.
New for 2009 will be high-energy in-park parties, new Web planning tools - to make it easier for guests to customize their celebration - custom cakes, floral arrangements and dining options, and magical experiences stretching across Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival:An elaborate "Cinderellabration" topiary featuring four Disney princesses dressed in "blooming" finery will set the scene for the 16th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 18-May 31.
Cinderella and Prince Charming, Snow White and the seven dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Prince Phillip, and Belle and Beast from "Beauty and the Beast" will debut as the grand front-entrance topiary during the 75-day festival. Princess Ariel from "The Little Mermaid" also will greet guests by the front-entrance fountain.
And that’s just the beginning. More than 70 topiaries in all showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship of Disney gardeners will dot the park landscape. Sweeping floral beds and exhibits will feature 30 million blooms. The art of bonsai will "wow" guests at the Japan showcase, and a large "green" garden between France and Morocco pavilions will reveal the many ways home gardeners can "go green" with their own landscapes.
Festival highlights also will include:
# Disney Gardening at Home presentations: Disney horticulturists share gardening tips and lead guests in a hands-on, take-home activity.
# The Great American Gardeners series: Gardening celebrities and authors from across the country will share their gardening secrets.
# The Garden Town festival center: Guests can shop for festival merchandise, attend speaker presentations and demonstrations and ask gardening questions of the experts.
# The family-oriented Growing Future Gardeners: A garden of delight where kids and parents can get colorful (and tasty) planting ideas.
# Kids’ activities and character meet-and-greets.
# Flower Power concerts: Popular bands rock the open-air America Gardens Theatre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. The concert lineup is slated to include Davy Jones, Paul Revere & the Raiders, Jose Feliciano and other top acts.
More information about the 16th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available by calling 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or by visiting disneyworld.com/flower (beginning February 2009). The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission.
Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex: Major League Baseball’s Atlanta Braves return to Champion Stadium for their 12th edition of Spring Training at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in March 2009.
The 2009 schedule is expected to feature the most appealing slate of opponents since the Braves arrived in 1997, along with all-new entertainment and guest experiences, including the opportunity to view pre-game batting practice from field level.
Last spring, the Braves finished 10-5-1 at Champion Stadium, with three of the top all-time home crowds at Disney, on the way to ranking second only to the New York Yankees in Grapefruit League attendance.
Individual game tickets for the Braves’ home spring training season go on sale Saturday, Jan. 10, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster (407/839-3900 and www.ticketmaster.com). Information on the Braves’ spring training season, group tickets and mini-packs is available by calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at www.disneysports.com.
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend: The upcoming Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by CIGNA will be held Jan. 8-11, 2009, and features approximately 45,000 runners entered in the Walt Disney World Marathon, Walt Disney World Half Marathon and Family Fun Run 5K and Kids’ Races.
The Walt Disney World Half Marathon is a 13.1-mile course that will take runners on Saturday from Epcot to Magic Kingdom and then back to Epcot for the finish.
On Sunday, the 26.2-mile Walt Disney World Marathon will pass through all four Walt Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios) and finish back at Epcot. It’s been called the "26 Most Magical Miles on Earth," and features Disney entertainment along the route.
The 2009 Walt Disney World Half Marathon is currently sold out. Those interested in participating in the 2010 race can find more information at www.disneysports.com. Guests wanting to see if registration is still available for the marathon event and the Family Fun Run 5K should check www.disneysports.com for the latest updates. Both events are also expected to sell out.
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend currently ranks as one of the popular endurance events in the United States.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey: One-hundred teens from across the country with big dreams and aspirations will be celebrated during Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, Feb. 12-15, 2009, at Walt Disney World Resort.
An event created to inspire and enrich high school students, Disney’s Dreamers Academy will include workshops with Disney cast members and executives, sessions with entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and time to enjoy the Disney theme parks - where student participants can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as "Disney dreamers."
The participants will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports and more.
During the inaugural Disney’s Dreamers Academy in January 2008, some of the special guest speakers included Disney Channel star Kyle Massey, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pro Bowl linebacker Derrick Brooks, "American Idol" champion Fantasia, pop/R&B recording artist Keyshia Cole, Chef Jeff Henderson and ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith. In addition to hosting the event, Harvey also held interactive workshops and presentations for the teens.
The Disney’s Dreamers Academy class of 2009 will be made up of teens chosen by a panel of judges including Harvey, community leaders and Disney executives.
Harvey said Disney’s Dreamers Academy "is about inspiring our young people who often times don’t have the chance to be exposed to a variety of job skills and job opportunities and meet with people in the fields they’re interested in. We want to give our young achievers the tools to become overachievers - to make their dreams a reality."
For more information, guests can go to www.SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy. (Source: Press Release, 09/30/08)
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Disney’s Favorite Pixie, Tinker Bell, Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to Her New Fairy Friends
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- To celebrate the animated film "Tinker Bell," Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in a meet-and-greet experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.
To meet Tinker Bell and her fairy friends, guests enter a magical forest called "Pixie Hollow," a special place deep in the heart of Never Land.
Tinker Bell, made famous in the 1953 Disney animated classic "Peter Pan," for her "hostess" role in Disney television specials and for "flying" above the Disney theme parks, is joined inside Pixie Hollow by four fairy friends: Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy.
In addition to meeting the Fairies at Magic Kingdom, guests can learn more about the Disney Fairies at www.disneyfairies.com.
And if Tinker Bell doesn’t "ring a bell" or jog a memory, here are some "fun fairy facts" about the sprightly pixie:
# Tinker Bell debuted at Walt Disney World Resort in 1971, as the classic attraction Peter Pan’s Flight opened in Fantasyland. The beloved attraction immerses guests in the "Peter Pan" story as passengers board flying pirate ships bound for Never Land.
# Tinker Bell began "flying" from high atop Cinderella Castle in 1985. Since then, she has taken her flight thousands of times to light the sky with magical fireworks.
# Tinker Bell made her Walt Disney World parade debut in 2007. She made that premiere appearance atop a float in "Disney’s Enchanted Adventures Parade," an entertainment extravaganza during Disney’s Pirate and Princess Party.
# Tinker Bell merchandise continually ranks among the top sellers of character-based merchandise at Walt Disney World Resort. (Source: Press Release, 09/25/08)
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The All New Disneyland Birthday Club Delivers A Virtual Party Right To Your Computer
As part of Disney Parks "What Will You Celebrate?" campaign, Disney fans of all ages will now be able to celebrate their birthdays with a personalized virtual party delivered right to their computers.
The all-new Disneyland Birthday Club, available online, adds to the fun of the magical offer announced on Sept. 18: Everyone who visits a Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free.
The Disneyland Birthday Club is a virtual club that offers Disney fans a complimentary Virtual Birthday Party via e-mail. After registering at www.Disneyland.com/BirthdayClub, they'll receive a "Happy Birthday" e-mail with birthday greetings from one of their favorite Disney characters, complete with "virtual" balloons and streamers, catchy birthday music and even a fantasy birthday cake with candles to "blow out," along with some additional birthday surprises.
The Disneyland Birthday Club Web site features birthday party planning tips, available upon registration.
The Disneyland Birthday Club is an at-home online feature, free with registration. Guests can also opt to join the Club when they register for the "Free On Your Birthday" ticket using the "What Will You Celebrate" link at www.Disneyland.com. Guests can begin using "Free On Your Birthday" tickets on Jan. 1, 2009.
Disneyland Birthday Club registration is now open. The first birthday e-mails will be sent in November. A Spanish-language version of the Birthday Club site, www.DisneylandEspanol.com/BirthdayClub, will go online in late September.
The offer for free admission on your birthday in 2009 is also good at Walt Disney World Resort, as Disney Parks embraces a new trend in family travel called "celebration vacations." This newly identified national trend shows that American families are hitting the road to mark life’s special occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, reunions and more - with a "celebration vacation."
In 2009, Disney Parks will champion this growing trend with new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences. Disney presented the trend to guests with a first-ever opportunity to visit free on their birthday.
"Birthdays are the one occasion that we all share every year," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, at an announcement event today in New York. "We thought a free birthday ticket would be the icing on the cake as we extend this new ‘celebration vacation’ trend to Disney Parks."
To help guests plan their celebrations, the magic-makers at Disney are prepared to make it easier than ever for guests to plan celebrations large and small, customizing and personalizing each experience. New Web tools can help customize any celebration. (Source: Press Release, 09/23/08)
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Celebrate Halloween Time At Disneyland Resort With Family Fun, Haunted Mansion Holiday And Disney's Happiest Haunt Tours
Anaheim, Calif. - Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort will fill Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks with not-so-scary spook-tacular entertainment beginning Friday, Sept. 26 and continuing through Sunday, November 2.
The season of tricks and treats will be celebrated at Disneyland Resort with the traditional giant "Mickey Mouse" jack-o’-lantern in Disneyland Town Square, Haunted Mansion Holiday in New Orleans Square and Candy Corn Acres in Disney’s California Adventure, along with festive foods, a lively mix of Disney characters in Halloween costumes and year two of Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tours.
During regular park hours at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort offers parents and children plenty of family-friendly fun in addition to the parks’ many popular adventures. Halloween Time activities include special shows, meet-and-greets with Disneyland characters in spirited costumes, along with opportunities to decorate Halloween cookies and listen to storytellers at "Woody’s Halloween Roundup" at Big Thunder Ranch.
Dedicated fans of Halloween and the Disney parks will want to sign up to experience all the "hot and cold running chills" of the season on Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour, an expanded version of the Halloween tour launched in 2007. From Sept. 26 to Oct. 31, the three-hour Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour will be offered twice a day, beginning at the "witching hours" of 5:15 and 5:30 p.m. The tour, conducted by a "unique" Disneyland Resort tour guide, includes the stories behind some of Disney parks’ spookiest attractions, told from the perspective of Disney villains. Stops at thrilling attractions including the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Haunted Mansion Holiday, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Snow White’s Scary Adventure are among the highlights of the tour.
Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour is darkly humorous and spooky and is not recommended for young children or for those who might not enjoy the featured attractions (or might not meet the 40-inch height requirement for Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad). The tour fee is $59 and does not include park admission. Guests who take the tour receive an exclusive collectible remembrance and a Halloween treat. Each tour group has a maximum size of 20 guests. Tours may be booked up to 20 days in advance by calling (714) 781-4400.
Popular, family-friendly entertainment also returns for the Halloween season. At Disney’s California Adventure Sunshine Plaza is the Candy Corn Acres, where Mickey Mouse’s pal Goofy sets out to grow the West’s biggest and most unusual candy corn, including candy corn coconuts, candy corn carrots and candy corn pumpkins. The Plaza will be overgrown with the "fruits" of Goofy’s labor.
Also returning for the season is Haunted Mansion Holiday. Inspired by the innovative animated film, Tim Burton’s "Nightmare Before Christmas," Haunted Mansion Holiday comes to life when Jack Skellington and his friends create holiday mayhem at the Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square.
A perfect way to celebrate Halloween in special Disney style is the one-of-a-kind Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party. This private costume party lets little ones laugh and play with some of their favorite Disney Characters - including Mickey himself - and ride select attractions as they trick-or-treat through Disney’s California Adventure park. The experience also includes interactive games, "spirited" music, and a nightly character cavalcade. It’s an unforgettable evening of Halloween fun for everyone. Dates for Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party are Oct. 3, 10, 16. 17, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31. Tickets are $29 per person when purchased at least one day in advance, $37 per person for tickets purchased day-of and for all Oct. 31 tickets. They may be purchased online at www.disneyland.com or by calling (714) 781-4400.
Throughout the Disneyland Resort during Halloween Time, families can enjoy unique Halloween-themed food items including Zero’s Ghostly Ghoulash, a favorite of Jack Skellington’s pet in "Haunted Mansion Holiday," and merchandise including Disney costumes, collectible pins and coins and a special set of Halloween-themed Mickey Mouse ears resembling the Mickey jack-o’-lantern in Town Square.
For more information about Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort and new attractions, visit www.disneyland.com/halloween. (Source: Press Release, 09/25/08)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:41 AM
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