Pixie Dust!

We are always looking for new and exciting ways to explore at Disney, while not spending any extra money!  On a recent trip, we went to Castle Couture located behind the castle near Bippidi Boppidi Boutique and enjoyed a magic sprinkling of pixie dust on our little fairy princess. 

This was a great way to make some magic without rushing around, making reservations, or spending any extra cash.  I will issue a small word of warning that it does take several washings to get ALL of the glitter out, but we didn't mind taking a little glitter home with us!

The jolly headhunter who shows up near the end of the Jungle Cruise is known as "Trader Sam".

The Jungle Cruise is one of our favorite classic rides, and we love the slapstick corny humor that makes the old and young chuckle and enjoy the experience.

The name for the ride vehicles on th omnimover at the Haunted Mansion are called "doom buggies"

This style of attraction is now popular around WDW, as it allows for the ride to load and unload non-stop, making wait times shorter. 

Both the Carousel of Progress and It's a Small World made their debut at the 1964 New York World's Fair.

Which of these rides to you consider a "must do" for your trips?  I personally always head to Carousel of Progress, and my husband enjoys the short nap he gets as I enjoy te attraction. 

It always seems to me that I'm closer to the spirit the parks were created in when I enjoy that attraction--besides--it's a great history lesson that the kids don't even realize they are getting. 

Admission on opening day in 1971 was $3.50 for an adult.

Now, we pay that much for per gallon of gas to get to WDW. 

The opening day crowd at the Magic Kingdom in 1971 was approximately 10,000 guests.

That number is now considered a low attendance day across the WDW complex. 

This post holds a little secret:  book with me in November and receive a $25 Disney giftcard.  All you have to do is share this fun fact with me! Tell your friends!

The Liberty Oak, the focal point of Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom, is the proud parent of over 500 young trees.

Trees throughout the WDW complex started as acorns harvested from this majestic oak.

Trolley Time!

Main Street in the mornings is full of fun!

This trolley (complete with singers and dancers) is one example of the extra entertainment going on all the time.  This constant creation of an enviroment by street performers is just another example of how Disney stands out in creating an immersive guest experience. 

Casting Agency

This door on Main Street is used as an inspiration to me.  

I had taken this picture on our February 2011 trip, and then 

I took it and hung it up outside my cubicle at work.  It made

me smile, and made other people ask questions, giving me 

the perfect opportunity to talk about my dream to work 

in the happiest place on earth. 

Dreams Come True

Several times daily, a super cute show called "Dreams Come True" takes place in front of the castle.  I suggest seeing this show mid-afternoon and use it as a little break.  Grab something to snack on or drink and relax.  You're at Disney--and it's easy to believe Dreams really do come true. 

Fireworks, of course.

Well, it's fourth of July week, so today our magical memory comes from the classic fireworks over the castle photo.  Fireworks are one of the things that makes a Disney trip magical.  It's hard to be upset, or frustrated as you listen to the music and watch the fireworks explode overhead. 

Happy fourth of July everyone!

Monster's Inc, Laugh Floor

Today's picture comes from the queue (or line) area of the Laugh Floor.  Join Mike Wazowski, along with an entire cast of monster comedians, as they interact with the audience and make jokes (sometimes at the expense of select audience members) in hopes of getting enough laughs to fill the gigantic laugh canister. This attraction is live and not scripted, using real-time animation, sophisticated voice-activated animation, and a terrific cast of talented improv back stage comedians.  You can even text your favorite jokes to the show from your cellphone (just prior to showtimes) -- and you may find yourself laughing at a joke or two of your own! The number is available in the queue area.  

First Haircut!

Harmony Barber shop specializes in making even haircuts magical. Little ones getting their first haircut receive a certificate and mouse ears. They'll even wrap up that lock of hair to save for the baby book. With little extras like bubbles and stickers, a hair cut becomes a favorite activity. Pixie dust and colored gels are also a feature of this tucked away treasure.

Harmony isn't just for kids though. Adults are also welcome to stop in for a trim in this little corner of main street magic. Prices for all cuts from the smallest to the tallest range from $14-$22

Call 407-WDW-PLAY (407-939-7529) for a reservation up to 180 days in advance. Harmony Barber Shop reservations requires payment or a credit card guarantee, and there is a one-day $10 cancellation policy. No same-day reservations can be made but walk-up appointments, if available, are accepted.

A note about tipping: Please be aware that tips are accepted at Harmony Barber Shop, but can not currently be processed with Disney’s credit and charge system. Guests should carry some cash if they want to offer a gratuity.

News and Notes May 2, 2012

April Showers bring MAY...discounts! In today's newsletter, I'm going to make you aware of all the upcoming discounts being offered at Disney through September 29th, and I've also included information for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!

If you haven't booked a trip yet, feel free to email me or give me a call at 815-214-9832.  Oh hey--or there is a link to the right that you can submit a request.  :)  I'm easy to reach!

I do all the work, so you can relax and enjoy your family and make magical memories. Services are free, and I can do as much or little as you need to make your experience truly one of a kind. Reservations, dining and customized touring plans are just a little of what I can do. I also monitor trips to make sure you get the best value possible. If you've already booked (through Disney) and want to transfer your reservation, let me know.

So,lets get started! First--the discounts!

Free dining is offered Aug. 25-Sept 29 but must be booked by May 18th!

Summer discounts: 15-30% off rooms June 15-Aug 15, booked by June 14.

Late Summer also offers discounts: 10-30% off rooms Aug. 15-Sept 29 (cannot be combined with free dining offers)

Next: Let's talk about the parties!

If you would like to purchase tickets for these events--shoot me an email or give me a call!

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!
2012 Dates: 7:00 p.m. - Midnight

September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28 & 30
October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 and 31
November 2

Halloween at the Magic Kingdom is one of the most unique parties hosted by Disney. Come out for an evening of fun and see all your favorite Characters dressed up in their costumes. Watch for Cast Members from the Haunted Mansion. They are roaming the park, looking for new tenants perhaps...? Eek!

Returning this year is a spectacular Halloween-themed fireworks display -- “Happy HalloWishes” -- featuring spooky music from family-friendly Disney attractions and movies including Haunted Mansion and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” as well as the voices of memorable Disney characters such as Madame Leota, Ursula, Jafar, Maleficent and Oogie Boogie. The one and only Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Parade will make it's way down Main Street USA, past all those ghostly shadows flying along the buildings. (Watch for the Headless Horseman.) The parade is shown twice. Unique floats include a Villains Float, Haunted Mansion Float, and Hades Float. The fog is thick, so watch your step. The decor of the evening is hay bales, cornstalks, balloons, and jack o lanterns... everywhere! Upon arriving guests receive a Trick-or-Treat bag with a few goodies, and can go to designated locations throughout the Magic Kingdom for even more treats.

Tickets: September 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28

Advance Purchase: $55.95 for adults 10 and older, $50.94 for ages 3-9

Day of Event: $62.95 for adults, $57.95 ages 3-9

October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
November 2 (No discounts are available for Friday nights, October 5,12,26, 31)

Advance Purchase: $58.95 for adults 10 and older, $53.95 for ages 3-9

Day of Event: $64.95 for adults, $59.95 ages 3-9

Military Dates:
Sept.11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
$37.77/$36.77 plus tax
Up to 5 additional tickets for family and friends. Id requirements same as Mil Promotion tickets.

October 31$69.95for adults 10 and older, $64.95 for ages 3-9

This is a hard ticket event. Guests need to purchase a separate ticket for entry. Halloween Night always sells out in advance, so get your tickets early. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and are not included with any other ticket media.

Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.

Boo! What? Where? & When?

Trick-or-Treating Goodies for your ghouls all evenings. Consult park map for locations. 7PM-12AM
Mickey's Boo-To-You Halloween Parade    8:15 & 10:30 PM
Halloween Dance Parties  Stitch's Cosmic Dance Party - Tomorrowland and Get Up & Boo-gie - Fantasyland
“Happy HalloWishes” Fireworks  9:30 PM
Villain's Mix and Mingle Your favorite Disney Villains take center stage in this Halloween production - stick around, you don't know who you may meet after the show.

Transportation to resorts will continue through the end of the party.

 

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!
7 p.m. - Midnight
2012 Dates:
November 9, 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30;
December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21.

Pricing Advance-- 58.95/$53.95 plus tax

Same Day --$64.95 plus tax/$59.95

Premium Date - December 21 --$67.95/$62.95 plus tax

On an ordinary day during this season, Christmas in the Magic Kingdom is very festive in every way. A towering Christmas tree decorates Town Square and the whole place is decked out in Disney fashion, with garlands, wreaths, decorations and lights everywhere.  On select evenings during the Holiday season you can purchase tickets for the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party event, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, a complimentary family photo and button, and even SNOW... Don't miss the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Parade held twice during the evening. Also see a Special Holiday Wishes Fireworks.

Tickets/Dates: Military Dates
Nov.9, 12, 15, 25,27, 29
$41.27 plus tax/$37.77 plus tax

This is a hard ticket event. Guests need to purchase a separate ticket for entry. Walt Disney World limits the number of tickets sold in order to keep the crowds down and many dates sell out in advance

Event tickets are valid only during specific dates and hours. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and are not included with any other ticket media.
Beginning at 4:00 p.m., Guests already inside the Theme Park who have purchased admission for the "hard ticket event" for that day may return to the Main Entrance to have their hard ticket event admission swiped. The Guest will receive a wristband which will serve as proof of admission for the event later that evening. Guests with wristbands may stay in the park at closing; all other Guests will be asked to leave the park.

What? Where? & When?
Cinderella's Holiday Wish --Castle Forecourt Stage
Mickey's Once upon a Christmastime Parade 8:15 & 10:30 PM
Holiday Wishes 9:30 PM

A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland
See Santa Next to City Hall in Town Square
Character Dance Parties Join us in Fantasyland and Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland for our Holiday Disney Character Dance parties.
Save 40% on Disney PhotoPass
Exclusively for the event. See any Disney PhotoPass Photographer for Details. Special Event Merchandise is also available in select locations throughout the park be sure to check your map for exact locations.

Mickey ice cream sandwiches

This is Ruby’s first experience with a Mickey Mouse ice cream sandwich. She didn’t want our help, but she didn’t really want her hands to get sticky either. In the end, we sat on the bench and shared this delicious treat before taking our first ever ride on the Liberty Belle.

It's a small world after all...

This ride is probably one of the most famous in the world. Everyone knows the song. Grown ups tire of its repetitiveness quicky, and young children sing it for hours. What is it about these dolls and this music that constantly draws us back through the tunnel?

Crystal Palace breakfast

YUM!  This picture is a great way to announce free Dining for August 25-Sept 29! There are a few limitations, but free food is always a good deal!

Anyway, about my picture: I love bacon so had breakfast at Crystal Palace. A delicious breakfast buffet, you get more than breakfast here. Pooh and friends visit, sing and dance throughout your meal. Even better, its right on main street. You can make reservations for up to an hour before park opening. A few minutes alone on main street, and once you finish breakfast, you're already in the park and ready to head out for a day of adventure!

Main street bakery

I love breakfast at the Main Street bakery. This giant Cinnamon roll and iced coffee was 2 snack credits. That’s a great way to start the day! I took this picture to send to my co-workers back home because they LOVE pictures of food. They texted me throughout the week, because I wasn't very good at remembering to take the food pictures I had promised.

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom

There's been a lot of talk about the fantasyland expansion, with people taking pictures over the wall while riding Dumbo (guilty), to WDW railroad riders straining for a better view. We're all excited about Dumbo moving (and doubling in size), the skyway area being re-done after sitting empty for so long, and exciting new rides in the biggest expansion to date.

However, behind the seens other people are talking. There's something else coming to the Magic Kingdom, and it sounds like it will be ready to go long before Dumbo takes his next flight. Guest testing for Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom, an interactive scavenger hunt of sorts through the Magic Kingdom has been testing for a few months, with guest testing starting last week. Here's a great article that shows a little bit about the game and how it will work. Check this out!

I'm excited to see how this works once it is up and running at full speed. It looks to be a great new addition to "magic" at the Magic Kingdom.

Merlin the Magician is taking on apprentice Sorcerers, are you up to the challenge of top secret missions, fighting villains and saving the day? Sorcerer training takes place at Firehouse on Main street. On your next visit will you be the one to save the day?

Magic Kingdom Memories

This is one of my favorite videos. LOOK HERE! For just a few minutes I'm transported to the magic kingdom. One of my favorite magic kingdom memories is from when we took my brother and sister-in-law for first time. She had to go to emergency services, and while my husband and I were waiting, we spent hours exploring main street. It was nice to be able to relax at the start of our day, and see all of the details main street has to offer. From trolley singers to the castle show, parades and barbershop quartets, we just it all in, as if we actually lived on main street. Did you have any magic kingdom memories brought to life with this video?