food IS a theme park
It’s the most wonderful time of the year!
Jollywood Nights
We’re officially in the holiday swing of things in Disney World! As part of the celebrations, we’ve come to Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios for its second year, and we’re checking out ALL the special offerings. One of the new things on the list this year is a special holiday-themed show!
In my four years working for Disney Food Blog, I’ve been to a LOT of hard-ticketed events.
2022 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Some of those offerings were for work, while others were for fun (we DFB employees are die-hard Disney fans just like you guys!); some of them were in Disney World, while others were in Disneyland Resort (Disney Channel Nite was a BLAST, y’all). But the ones I’ve done the most are the Disney World holiday parties! I’ve been to all three of them at this point, and I’ve got some hot tips to share.
We would argue that Disney World’s live entertainment is some of the best in the world.
Cinderella Castle
There are several outdoor shows put on by characters and Cast Members in each of the parks. Street performers, parades, cavalcades, and other shows pop up throughout the day and bring us lots of joy. Occasionally, Disney will cancel or temporarily remove some of this entertainment for varying reasons. Recently, two shows were suspended for a couple of weeks, but we’re happy to report that they have officially returned back to Magic Kingdom!
There are a few key things that set Disney’s cruise ships apart from other cruise lines. One thing is the theming — Kids love meeting their favorite characters, like Mickey and Minnie, on board! Another perk is the destinations, because on certain cruises you get to go to Disney’s private island destinations, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay. But one of the biggest reasons why people choose Disney over other cruise lines is the incredible entertainment!
Disney Magic
The evening shows on Disney cruise ships are beautifully done. The stories are enchanting, the characters are familiar and fun, and the music is excellent! We recently sailed on the Disney Magic, one of the older Disney cruise ships, and really enjoyed the whole experience, especially those shows. Here’s a FULL LIST of all the evening shows, with our review of each one included!
Something BIG is coming back to Disneyland!
Disneyland
Last year, Fantasmic was put on hiatus at Disneyland Park after the Maleficent dragon caught fire mid-show. Since then, Disney has been reworking the show a bit in anticipation of its reopening on May 24th, 2024. And now, right before the show returns, we’ve got a sneak peek!
There is nothing quite like nibbling on finger sandwiches and delicious sweets while sipping on a cup of tea, right?
We have a new spot for Afternoon Tea!
Admittedly, we are still mourning the fact that the Garden View Tea Room at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has not brought back its Afternoon Tea experience. While we wait for The Cake Bake Shop to open and debut its own Afternoon Tea service, we have another option for an Afternoon Tea experience in Walt Disney World. Bet you didn’t know about THIS fun little dining experience. Prepare to be amazed!
One of the most popular fireworks shows Magic Kingdom has seen in recent history returned to the park about a year ago in April 2023.
Happily Ever After
We’ve seen Happily Ever After so many times that we pick up on little details that change, and we never get tired of seeing how it affects those watching it for the first time. If you’re heading into the park soon and want to be sure you catch this show, don’t forget that showtimes are CHANGING!
Did you hear the news? A brand-new Disney festival is coming soon!
©Disney
Pixar Fest is happening at Disneyland Resort from April 26th through August 4th, 2024, and is all about fun with Pixar pals. It will span both parks (Disneyland and Disney California Adventure), Downtown Disney, and beyond. Disney just dropped new details about the fest, so we’re sharing everything you need to know!
Planning a trip to Disneyland Resort? If so, 2024 is a great time to go!
Pixar Pier
With the ongoing Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, as well as the upcoming Star Wars offerings this spring, there’s plenty to see. But the real fun starts this summer for Pixar fans, with Pixar Fest returning to Disneyland Resort!
It feels like there’s always something new happening in the Disney parks.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid
Disney World alone has Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the updated Country Bear Jamboree show in progress in Magic Kingdom, as well as refurbishments coming up soon for Test Track in EPCOT. But now Disney has also started casting for the brand new show that’s coming this fall!
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