On May 7th, The Walt Disney Company and Miral announced an agreement to create a landmark Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The announcement of the region’s first-ever Disney theme park resort destination was celebrated in spectacular fashion as a stunning drone show and fireworks spectacle lit up the night sky at Yas Island.

The show, which took place at Yas Links, was set against the stunning backdrop of Yas Island’s waterfront and included global celebrities Tyrese Gibson, Naomi Campbell, Ed Westwick, and more. Guests were also treated to a live performance featuring world-renowned pianist Lang Lang alongside acclaimed Emirati singer, Rashed Alnuaimi, Kerry Ellis, and Sonya Balsara.

This new destination project will be Disney’s seventh theme park resort worldwide and will connect travelers from the Middle East to Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond.

The upcoming resort promises to seamlessly blend Disney’s iconic stories, characters and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture, stunning shorelines, and breathtaking architecture. The new resort will be fully developed and built by Miral. Disney and its legendary Imagineers will lead creative design and operational oversight to provide a world-class experience.

There’s more in store at the Downtown Disney District – more shopping, more dining and even more fun! We’re thrilled to give guests the next sneak peek and inside scoop on all that’s on the way for them to enjoy in the district at the Disneyland Resort – including opening details for Avengers Reserve and the D-Lander Shop, a first look at the first-of-its kind concept for Porto’s, additional details on Parkside Market, and so much more!

New Disney Retail Shops Opening Soon!

We recently shared that three new shops are coming to the district! Let us give guests a closer look at these exciting locations coming soon.

Opening Dec. 6, 2024, Avengers Reserve will celebrate fandom and the stories of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and their amazing friends! At the entrance, a 9-foot Incredible Hulk sculpture will be smashing through the wall, while Spider-Man has climbed atop the building. Inside, the store will have a high energy, industrial vibe with lighting effects, authentic film props and a media screen with a gaming demonstration station.

The shop will carry comic books, must-have collectibles, Super Hero-inspired apparel and role-play toys for all ages. The collections will be refreshed regularly, so guests will want to come back again and again!

Also opening on Dec. 6, 2024, the D-Lander Shop will be light, bright and modern with pops of colors, a relaxing lounge area, and the fitting rooms will have fabulous, eye-catching artwork!

In all, this might be a new favorite place for trend forward fashions and co-branded collections of apparel, handbags and jewelry including Kate Spade, Dooney & Bourke and a dedicated Pandora Jewelry shop-within-a-shop!

Opening this winter, Disney Wonderful World of Sweets will be a wonderful place with the sweetest tastes, introducing a splendid array of new confectionery treats! The interior will be whimsical and colorful with dimensional murals of this delectable new world, and exhibition kitchens will be viewable from the promenade and inside the shop. Here, guests can pop in for favorite snacks such as caramel apples, sour balls, lollipops, churro toffee and introducing to the Disneyland Resort, freshly made Werther’s Original Caramel popcorn.  These treats are perfect for gift giving, or guests can just take some home for themselves!

Parkside Market Opening This Winter, With New Details!

Parkside Market will open this winter on the west end of the district, bringing four distinctive locations under one roof! First, let’s reveal the name of the second story bar: Vista Parkside Market, which will offer great views of the district to sip signature craft cocktails and mocktails made with local ingredients and artful garnishes. These will pair nicely with Parkside Market menus with full service right to guests’ tables.

As we previously shared, Parkside Market will feature Seoul Sister, a fast-casual modern eatery serving Korean-style rice bowls; Sip & Sonder serving lattes, fresh treats, frozen drinks and delicious small bites; GG’s Chicken Shop serving chicken sandwiches, salads and classic dinner table sides.

A First Look at the First-of-its-Kind Concept for Porto’s Bakery and Café

Scrumptious plans are underway for Porto’s Bakery and Café and we want to give guests the first look!

Porto’s fans will be able to pick up their signature Cheese Rolls, Potato Balls and other favorite goodies from its Bakery and Café, and for those looking for an enhanced Porto’s experience, this will be the first Porto’s location with sit-down table service and a full bar.

Announcing Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon, and Pearl’s Roadside BBQ Restaurants 

Here’s more meaty news about two new restaurant concepts in the works for Downtown Disney District by Michelin-starred Chef Joe Isidori.

Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon will be a classic steakhouse, with a lively center bar, offering prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, sandwiches and salads, and an impressive selection of bourbon and inventive cocktails.

Next door, Pearl’s Roadside BBQ will be a quick service eatery offering flavorful dishes such as pulled pork, beef brisket and smoked heritage turkey with house-made sauces, along with craft beers and moonshine cocktails.

Guests may see work beginning soon where these restaurants will be built on the footprint of the former Tortilla’s Jo’s.

Building Excitement for New Designs at The LEGO Store 

The LEGO Store has been busy building new creations with the refurbishment of their flagship Downtown Disney location. While the store will reopen soon with refreshed interior spaces, their Master Builders will begin work on new sculptures for the exterior. It’s always a fun-filled world of vivid colors and imagination at The LEGO Store!

Celebrate the Holiday Season in Downtown Disney District

The merriest season is on the way (Nov. 15, 2024 – Jan. 6, 2025), and Downtown Disney is a delightful place to stroll and savor this special time of year with twinkling decor, boutique shopping, a new holiday ornament cart, special holiday menus at select restaurants, live music and family festivities.

Guests can enjoy the nightly snowfall from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. each evening from Nov. 29, 2024 – Jan. 6, 2025, at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage and lawn with a special photo op from Disney Vacation Club, and guests should keep their eyes out on Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail for hidden ornaments on display Nov. 22, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025.

Guests can purchase an activity map at select shopping locations in Downtown Disney and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort to help their ornament search and redeem it at World of Disney or Disney’s Pin Traders for a holiday keepsake.*

With all of the terrific additions on the horizon, there’s still so much to do, see, eat and explore throughout the district right now. We look forward to welcoming guests back, again and again!

*Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail pursuit is subject to cancellation or change without notice including, without limitation, dates, keepsakes and prices. Purchase limits apply. Whether you choose to search for the ornaments or not, return your map for a small keepsake.1 Map = 1 Keepsake. Maps are valid for redemption through 1/1/2025, or while keepsake supplies last.

The holidays are all about cherished family traditions—and at the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth, there are traditions new and old from all corners of the globe! Now’s the time for guests to start planning merry moments for the season – check out the top three must-see holiday entertainment highlights of the festival, all included with an EPCOT ticket.

Around the World Stories

Guests can stroll around World Showcase where seasonal legends and stories come alive with Holiday Storytellers. They can meet the mischievous Barn Santa in the Norway pavilion for a great laugh or listen to the tale of La Befana in Italy, the kind-hearted witch who visits on the Eve of the Epiphany; take in the wonders of Lunar New Year with a Chinese Lion Dance viewing or discover the traditions of Hanukkah located between Morocco and France. Every culture has its special way of celebrating the holidays, and there’s no better place than EPCOT to experience the magic of it all!

Jam at JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season in an All-New Location

Guests can experience the joy of Christmas in the uplifting Gospel, R&B, and holiday songs of JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season. Guests will join the choir as they harmonize for the holidays in their new location at CommuniCore Plaza. This unique celebration happens only four times a day, so guests can’t miss their chance to catch a glimpse of the holiday cheer they bring.

Hear Tidings of Comfort and Joy with the Candlelight Processional

For many guests, the Candlelight Processional is a must-do tradition each year. The beloved show tells the story of Christmas through a stunning performance, featuring a celebrity narrator, a mass choir of Disney cast members and young singers from the community, a 50-piece orchestra, herald trumpets, and the incredible Voices of Liberty.  Showtimes this year have adjusted to 5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.

Celebrity Narrators Bring Merry & Bright Star Power

So, who will be the celebrity narrators bringing the story of Christmas to life in an unforgettable way during the Candlelight Processional? This year’s list of celebrity narrators is packed with all the stars to light up the America Gardens Theatre:

• 11/29 – 11/30 Josh Gad
• 12/1 – 12/2 Nico Santos (NEW)
• 12/3-12/5 Chrissy Metz
• 12/6 – 12/7 Whoopi Goldberg
• 12/8 – 12/10 Tituss Burgess (NEW)
• 12/11 – 12/12 Brendan Fraser
• 12/13 – 12/14 Ralph Macchio (NEW)
• 12/15 – 12/16 Gary Sinise
• 12/17 – 12/18 Neil Patrick Harris
• 12/19 – 12/21 Pat Sajak
• 12/22 – 12/23 Gloria Estefan
• 12/24 – 12/26 Edward James Olmos
• 12/27 – 12/28 Sterling K Brown
• 12/29 – 12/30 Jodi Benson

Candlelight Processional Dining Packages

The Candlelight Processional is a family favorite event for a reason. Why not elevate it with a delicious dining package that includes reserved seating, ensuring that guests and their families won’t miss a moment of the holiday magic? Guests can choose from fifteen distinctive eateries, ranging from character dining at Chip ‘N’ Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill Restaurant in The Land pavilion to dining at Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion. The package includes options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with guaranteed seating for one of three Candlelight Processional shows. Guests can book their dining package starting Oct. 29; for more information visit DisneyWorld.com.

Guests can believe in the magic of the holidays with their families at the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth. The season of cheer is here!

Orlando, Fla. (July 31, 2024) – In 2025, Universal Orlando Resort will debut its third captivating installment of its wildly popular Harry Potter-themed lands with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – one of five worlds coming to Universal Epic Universe in 2025. Set in wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures Fantastic Beasts films and the British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter film series, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic features an awe-inspiring collection of experiences that includes fantastical dining, whimsical retail, spellbinding entertainment and the most ambitious, groundbreaking ride Universal has ever created.

Developed by the award-winning Universal Creative team and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic builds upon the global phenomenon that began in 2010 with the debut of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure and continued with the 2014 launch of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Next year, the bar for theme park entertainment will be raised once again with the addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – creating an exciting trilogy of wizarding adventures across Universal Orlando.

MAGICAL CREATURES AND THE MINISTRY AWAIT…

Beyond the world’s ornate portal, guests will first journey from a Muggle park in Paris into the breathtaking spectacle of 1920’s Place Cachée – a hidden, bustling shopping district in wizarding Paris lined with Haussmannian buildings, shops, sidewalk cafés, and historic Parisian domes rising in the distance. Here, wizards and non-magiques alike will be enamored with the majestic grandeur and enchanting ambiance of the city as they cast dazzling spells throughout the magical streets using interactive wands, encounter fantastic beasts at a traveling circus, and – for the first time ever within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – travel across countries and time to 1990s London using the Métro-Floo for a thrilling adventure set inside the iconic British Ministry of Magic.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will feature the unmatched levels of immersion and attention to detail fans have come to expect from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Below is a look at the exciting new wonders waiting to be discovered in this spectacular new world:

•  Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry – With its unique combination of massive environments, powerful storytelling and first-of-its-kind ride technology, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry builds upon the historic theme park innovation Universal is known for – and will be one of its most impressive attractions to date. The adventure begins when guests travel by Métro-Floo – a unique mode of wizarding transit inspired by the iconic Floo Network seen in the films – to journey from wizarding Paris to the British Ministry of Magic for the long-awaited trial of the infamous Dolores Umbridge. Upon arrival, guests will enter the Ministry’s jaw-dropping grand atrium and venture through other departments before boarding magical, omnidirectional lifts to watch the trial take place…until Umbridge attempts to escape. Guests then join Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger and a house-elf named Higgledy in a thrilling chase that will propel them up, down, forward, backward, sideways and more throughout the Ministry as they try to capture Umbridge – all while dodging attacks from Death Eaters, rampaging creatures and more along the way.

•  Le Cirque Arcanus – For the first time ever in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, guests will enjoy a live, full-scale theatre experience in the heart of the land with Le Cirque Arcanus. This spectacular show features live performers and aerialists, amazing puppetry, brilliant special effects and more to take guests on a whirlwind journey where they’ll encounter fantastic beasts like never before. The show follows Ringmaster Skender, who has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase – where Demiguise, Diricawl, Mooncalves and more reside – to try and bring the failing Le Cirque Arcanus back to its former glory. It’s then up to circus employee Gwenlyn to rescue these creatures before they end up in Skender’s greedy hands forever.

•  Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique – Guests can shop some of the world’s finest wands designed by esteemed artisan wandmaker, Cosme Acajor, in the premier Parisian wand shop, Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique. In addition to popular imports from Ollivanders, visitors will find a selection of exquisite wands packaged in unique three-sided boxes – each containing a list of locations throughout the wizarding world where guests can practice casting spells.

•  Inspiring Wand Magic – As guests explore the streets of wizarding Paris, they can use their interactive wands to create magical experiences as they cast spells at various locations, interact with fantastic beasts such as Nifflers, Bowtruckles and a Demiguise, and engage with enchanted objects in many of the storefront windows plus other areas throughout the marvelous Place Cachée.

•  Captivating Entertainment – While exploring the streets of Place Cachée, guests will also encounter other visitors, officials and residents from the wizarding world, including exchange students from the Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry, an Auror from the Ministère des Affaires Magiques de la France who roams inquiring of suspicious characters, talking portraits of delightful wizards who engage with locals about the happenings in Place Cachée, and more.

Guests can also enjoy delicious international fare and shop for souvenirs and merchandise during their visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at highly-themed dining and retail locations, including:

•  Café L’Air De La Sirène – A wonder of French architecture adorned with fabulous carved marble and details of fantastic beasts hidden in the tile and mosaic designs, Café L’air De La Sirène is a charming café where guests can delight in French sandwiches, plats du jour and desserts.

•  Le Gobelet Noir – In the shadowy corners of Place Cachée is a mysterious timeworn auberge, where international Dark witches and wizards gather to escape the prying eyes of the Paris Ministry and have a hearty meal over hushed conversation. Menu offerings include starters such as soups and salads as well as a variety of entrées and desserts.

•  Bar Moonshine – American witches and wizards can enjoy a taste of home at Bar Moonshine, where they’ll find exclusive beers, wines and cocktails served amid U.S. Quidditch team pennants and other items of wizarding Americana.

•  Bièraubeurre Cart – No visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is complete without Butterbeer! Guests can stop by the Bièraubeurre cart during their visit to Place Cachée for a frosty, delicious mug of the fan-favorite beverage.

•  Guests can also shop for wizarding gear and memorabilia in Les Galeries Mirifiques, satisfy their sweet tooth at the French confectionary shop, K. Rammelle, or make a stop for Ministry of Magic-inspired items at the Métro-Floo gift shop, Tour En Floo.

Orlando, Fla. (Sept. 17, 2024) – Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe, Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, returns to Universal Studios Florida on January 24 and 25, 2025, featuring an unforgettable weekend of powerful music from some of today’s most popular Christian artists. Guests can now purchase tickets to the faith-filled event – which will include headline performances by GRAMMY award-winning singer Brandon Lake, Billboard Christian chart-topper Forrest Frank, Dove award-winning band Bethel Music, American Music Award-winning singer Matthew West, Dove-nominated band Rend Collective and more. See below for complete concert lineup for Rock the Universe 2025.

Rock the Universe guests can also immerse themselves in moving worship experiences that will take place throughout the entire weekend – including a compelling Sunday morning service to wrap up the inspiring weekend on January 26. Attendees will also enjoy a dedicated fan zone featuring live performances from up-and-coming acts, plus autograph sessions with participating bands and artists. They’ll also have access to Universal Studios Florida’s most exhilarating attractions during the event, including Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast and Revenge of the Mummy.

Event Tickets and Group Vacation Packages are On Sale Now!

Starting at $163.99 per person, fans can purchase a 3-Park Rock Your Weekend Ticket, which includes access to Rock the Universe on both Friday, January 24 and Saturday, January 25, along with three days of admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay (one theme park per day).

Rock the Universe also offers youth group ministries (groups of 10 or more) special pricing, exclusive vacation packages, benefits and opportunities to help them make the most of their visit. The Rock the Universe 3-Park Rock Your Weekend Ticket for groups starts at $145.99. Groups who stay at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels will receive exclusive perks, such as Early Park Admission with valid theme park admission, complimentary shuttle transportation to Universal Orlando’s theme parks, Universal CityWalk and more.

In 2025, guests of all ages can soar with dragons in a colorful, fully-alive world filled with Viking adventures in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – one of the five worlds featured at the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park.

Guests’ first sight of Berk will be reminiscent of the iconic sweeping vista straight from the films – featuring a vast sparkling lagoon that boasts two 40-foot-tall Viking statues set against an energetic village perched above churning seas. Guests will discover four attractions, one live show, and several character and dragon meet-and-greet experiences that offer something for every member of the family.

Orlando, Fla. (Aug. 30, 2024) –

See below for an overview of the terrifying experiences that await guests at Halloween Horror Nights 2024:

10 CHILLING HAUNTED HOUSES

As guests brave this year’s lineup of 10 frightening haunted houses, they will:

• need to silence their screams as they enter a terrifying post-apocalyptic world in “A Quiet Place,” where they will follow the Abbott family as they try to escape monstrous creatures with a sharp sense of hearing – ready to hunt down anyone who dares to make a sound;
• be transported to New York City in “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” where fans will team up with Ghostbusters new and old to protect the city from a second Ice Age as the vengeful spirit of Garraka threatens to freeze everyone to death;
• travel deeper into a paranormal dimension of tortured souls and demonic entities as they follow in the footsteps of the Lambert family in “Insidious: The Further;”

• 

  find themselves in the center of the ultimate battle between two unexpected alliances of classic female Universal Monsters, Saskia Van Helsing, Bride of Frankenstein, She-Wolf, and Anck-Su-Namun in “Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines;”

• scream their way through six original haunted houses created by the twisted minds of Universal Orlando’s award-winning Entertainment team, including:
  • “Slaughter Sinema 2,” where guests will head to the Carey Drive-in for a B-movie horror marathon full of spaghetti westerns, grindhouse gore and more;
  • “Goblin’s Feast,” where hordes of bloodthirsty goblins, orcs, hobgoblins, and witches welcome new visitors to their village for dinner;
  • “Major Sweets Candy Factory,” where guests join a field trip to a candy factory, only to realize the free samples have transformed the kids into candy-coated killers;
  • “The Museum: Deadly Exhibits,” which will transport guests to the new folklore museum, The Rolling Stone, where there is evil lurking within, ready to destroy everything in its path;
  • “Monstrous: The Monsters of Latin America,” home to the blood-sucking Tlahuelpuchi, owl-faced witch La Lechuza and bone-ripping El Silbón who can’t wait to prey upon guests;
  • and “Triplets of Terror,” where guests will celebrate the Barmy triplet’s birthday and soon realize they celebrate by recreating their family’s horrifying murders.

FIVE TERRIFYING SCARE ZONES

This year’s event will introduce two new hosts of horror, SINIST3R and SURR3AL, who are reigning the streets of Universal Studios Florida and unleashing the horror that awaits within five scare zones. As guests navigate the park, they’ll try to evade hordes of menacing scareactors stalking their every move as they:

• choose a path between SINIST3R, the manifestation of visceral horror, or follow SURR3AL, the incarnation of unearthly terror in “Duality of Fear;”
• brave the gloriously gory homemade torture devices ‘til they are put out of their misery in SINIST3R’s renaissance faire, “Torture Faire;”
• get caught in an otherworldly hellscape in “Demon Queens,” where four merciless queens loyal to SURR3AL rule;
• wander onto private property in “Swamp of the Undead,” where they are surrounded by zombies borne from the bodies of other brave trespassers;
• escape a terrifying gauntlet of Blumhouse characters in “Enter the Blumhouse,” including M3GAN, sinister sadists from The Purge and Black Phone, and more.

ALL-NEW ENTERTAINMENT, SINFULLY DELICIOUS FOOD, AND IMMERSIVE RETAIL EXPERIENCES

In between the screams, guests can enjoy:

• Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus – an energetic live show featuring a new nightmare set in a dark circus, full of pyro and aerialists to the beat of rock rhythms;
• an all-new highly-themed Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store where guests can shop the latest Halloween Horror Nights merchandise as they are transported to the back alleys of New York City where an ancient evil has been unleashed;
• an all-new food & beverage menu inspired by this year’s haunts, including items like Pork Carniceria (“Monstrous: The Monsters of Latin America”), Mini Stay-Puft S’mores (“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire”), Abbott’s Farm Corn Chowder (“A Quiet Place”), and fan-favorites like Twisted Taters.

EXCLUSIVE HALLOWEEN EXPERIENCES AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S HOTELS

To complete the ultimate Halloween Horror Nights getaway, the horror will expand to all Universal Orlando hotels with Halloween-themed lobby décor – including a web of sinister roots and pumpkins that have taken over the lobby and the Swizzle Lounge at Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort; creepy driftwood structures and spirits from the dead sea haunting Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites; the transformation of Loews Sapphire Falls Resort into a dark seaside gothic manor, and alien overlords have descended upon Universal Aventura Hotel.  Guests will also enjoy spooky photo opps and specialty drinks during their stay, in addition to other benefits including access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights entrance gate exclusively for Universal Orlando hotel guests for faster entry into the event, plus free transportation to Universal Orlando’s theme parks and Universal CityWalk before and after the scares.

Halloween Horror Nights tickets and vacation packages that include one-night admission to the event – along with hotel accommodations at a Universal hotel and theme park admission to all three theme parks – are on sale now. For more information about Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2024 and to purchase tickets, Contact us today!

The Atmosphere: Where Dreams Come True
From the moment you step foot inside any of its parks, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of joy and wonder. Every corner, from the meticulously designed Main Street U.S.A. to the lush landscapes of Animal Kingdom, exudes a sense of magic and storytelling that’s uniquely Disney.

Unparalleled Entertainment: A Show at Every Turn
At Walt Disney World, the entertainment options are endless. Witness spectacular parades, thrilling live shows, and some of the most jaw-dropping fireworks displays you’ll ever see. Not to mention surprise character encounters that bring your favorite Disney stories to life right in front of your eyes!

Innovative Attractions: Where Fantasy Meets Reality
The rides and attractions at Walt Disney World are in a league of their own. From flying through the stars with Peter Pan to journeying inside the mind of a toy with Buzz Lightyear, guests experience cutting-edge technology and classic storytelling merging in the most exhilarating ways possible.

Dining: A Culinary Adventure
Walt Disney World doesn’t just wow you with sights and sounds; it also offers a culinary journey around the world. From fine dining at places like Victoria & Albert’s to whimsical themed restaurants like Be Our Guest, there’s something to tantalize everyone’s taste buds.

Accommodations: Stay in the Magic
With over 25 Disney Resort hotels on the property, there’s a themed resort for every type of traveler. Want to stay in the royal chambers? The stately Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is perfect. Prefer to be closer to the animals? Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers breathtaking views of savanna wildlife right outside your window.

Seasonal Events: More Magic Throughout the Year

No matter when you visit, there’s always something special happening at Walt Disney World. Whether it’s the spellbinding Halloween events, the enchanting holiday festivities, or the exhilarating Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, there’s always a seasonal charm to enhance your visit.

Feel the excitement bubbling up? Let Must Love Travel, LLC help you dream up, plan, and embark on your unforgettable Disney adventure! Let’s sprinkle some fairy dust and set those plans in motion.

CHIBA, Japan (July 9, 2024) — Today, Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd. (OLC) announced a new agreement that will bring year-round Disney cruise vacations to Japan. Under a recently signed agreement, OLC will build and operate a Disney-branded cruise business in Japan, expected to commence by early 2029.

This is the latest evolution in an over 40-year relationship between Disney and OLC, which owns and operates Tokyo Disney Resort. The addition of a locally based Disney cruise ship will offer fun and relaxation for Japanese Disney fans during magical voyages filled with the incredible entertainment, world-class dining and exceptional guest service that set Disney cruises apart.

“Disney Cruise Line has ambitious plans to bring family vacations and Disney storytelling to more guests around the world than ever before,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Experiences. “We are thrilled to continue the success of this expansion as we collaborate with Oriental Land Co. to introduce another distinctly Disney vacation experience to families and fans in Japan.”

“I am sincerely proud that Disney and Oriental Land will be able to work together to create a world-class cruise business in Japan,” said Yumiko Takano, representative director, chairperson and CEO, Oriental Land. “Oriental Land will use their knowhow from the theme park business to continue pushing boundaries and provide family entertainment cruise experiences filled with inspiration and surprise.”

OLC will operate a new Disney cruise ship to be registered and based in Japan year-round. The ship will be constructed at Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, with imaginative designs created by Walt Disney Imagineering. A sister ship to the popular Disney Wish, it will feature many guest-favorite venues and experiences from that ship with select modifications specially designed with Japanese guests in mind. It is expected to be approximately 140,000 gross tons and powered by liquefied natural gas, with about 1,250 staterooms.

More details about the maiden voyage, itineraries and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date.

The Disney Cruise Line fleet sails to world-class destinations in The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, Hawaii, the South Pacific, and Australia and New Zealand, and year-round cruises from Singapore are planned to begin in 2025.

For more information about Disney Cruise Line, guests can visit disneycruise.com.

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About Disney Cruise Line 

Since launching in 1998, Disney Cruise Line has established itself as a leader in the cruise industry, providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and children can experience all Disney has to offer. Today, the award-winning Disney Cruise Line continues to expand its blueprint for family cruising with a fleet of five ships — the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish — and three more ships expected by the end of 2025. The Disney Cruise Line fleet sails to destinations in The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, Hawaii, the South Pacific, and Australia and New Zealand. For more information, visit disneycruise.com.

About Oriental Land Co., Ltd.

Established in 1960, Oriental Land Co., Ltd. owns and operates the Disney theme parks in Japan based on its agreement with Disney. It opened Tokyo Disneyland in 1983, Tokyo DisneySea, the first ever ocean-themed Disney theme park, in 2001, and operates Tokyo Disney Resort which includes hotels, a monorail, and a retail-dining-entertainment complex. More recently, in June 2024, it opened Tokyo DisneySea’s eighth themed port Fantasy Springs, bringing further evolution to Tokyo Disney Resort.

The much-anticipated Rise of the Resistance ride will be here this week.  The experience will open on December 5^th!

Hollywood Studios will open at 8:00 a.m. and remain open until 10:00 p.m.  This extends both its opening and closing that day by one hour giving guests a longer time to spend on the planet of Batuu!

Looking at Walt Disney’s Worlds park schedule it looks like Epcot and Animal Kingdom will both be having Extra Magic Hours on December 5^th.  Hopefully this will draw crowds to those parks and give others the opportunity to experience the new Rise of the Resistance.

Disney says this new ride is a massive, multi-platform, new attraction that is unlike anything that Disney has done before!  In this ride the Resistance needs your help and hidden in the forest outside Black Spire Outpost, the Resistance is gathering recruits for a secret mission.  Your transport will be captured by an imposing First Order Star Destroyer and Kylo Ren is on board.  Resistance fighters are at the ready to help you escape.  Along the way you will come in contact with favorite Star Wars characters including Rey, Finn, BB-8 and Poe Dameron.

If you are ready to take this thrilling new adventure then contact your Kingdom Magic Vacations Travel planner to get started planning today!

Did you know you can get married at Walt Disney World or at any Disney destination that would be magical for you?  Just imagine saying I Do in the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, on a Disney Cruise or at Aulani in Hawaii.  Well it is all possible with a Disney Fairytale Wedding package.  Here is some information to get started planning your Disney wedding or vow renewal.

-Your Kingdom Magic Vacations Travel Planner can go over the Disney Weddings packages to learn more about pricing and tools to help you plan.

-You will have a Disney Wedding Planner that will help you every step of the way and will turn your dreams into reality.

-Disney Weddings can be affordable. There are different packages to choose from.  The Escape package starts at around $7,000 and the Wishes package begins at $12,000.  You can customize add on’s such as arriving in Cinderella’s carriage to dessert parties for your guests while watching the fireworks. The possibilities are endless to create the dream wedding you always wanted.

-There are many locations both indoors and outdoors where you can choose to say I do and your wedding planner can help you with what is best for you.

After your magical Disney wedding you’ll want to plan your perfect Honeymoon, so contact your Kingdom Magic Vacations travel planner to help you make all the arrangements!

Can you believe it is December?! Time is moving so fast and in just a few short weeks we will will be ringing in a brand new year! 2020 is sure to be filled with so much excitement and what better way to kick off the celebration of this upcoming year then by celebrating at the Universal Orlando Resort!

New Year’s Eve in Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is the perfect place to celebrate New Years Eve! Here you will find upbeat live music to dance the night away! As well as energizing and exciting party zones that are sure to help keep you awake until midnight! Also during this bash you will be able to meet some of your favorite Universal characters!

You will keep the party going as you get to enjoy Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration! Also throughout the park you will be dazzled by amazing pyrotechnic displays and showers of confetti! And of course, no party is complete without party favors. Universal Orlando will make sure you walk away with some exciting New Years swag!

EVE at Universal CityWalk

If you are looking for a more exclusive event then EVE, an event that takes place at Universal Studios CityWalk is perfect for you! EVE is an electrifying New Year’s Eve celebration that is perfect for those looking to start the New Year off with a party! At the event you can enjoy a great select of signature drinks. You also get exclusive access to dance the night away in at least five incredible CityWalk clubs with live music!

And once you have worked up an appetite from all the dancing you can feast upon a wide selection of unlimited delicious gourmet cuisine offerings. At this event you also get to rock out on Orlando’s biggest outdoor dance floor! EVE is a separately ticketed event for guests 21 and over.

Contact your Kingdom Magic Vacations Travel Planner to plan your next visit to the Universal Orlando Resort!

It’s the most magical time of the year… Christmastime! During this festive season the Universal Orlando parks and resorts get even more awesome! From holiday decorations, to special offerings, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Universal Studios Florida! Even a Grinch will find themselves getting into the spirit of the season when they visit! During this Christmas season you can celebrate Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Let’s take a look at the festive offerings that can be found in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Over at Universal Studios Florida inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you will find that both Diagon Alley and London have been adorned top to bottom with festive Christmas décor. Throughout the land you will be dazzled by the brilliant holiday lighting. Throughout this area of the park you will find a wide selection of specialty holiday treats and drinks! The atmosphere is fun and festive! Grab yourself a Butter Beer, walk around, and enjoy the ambiance!

If you have visited Universal Studios Florida before, then you may have seen Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees! Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees are an exciting musical act that performs in Diagon Alley in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees have a special show prepared just for the holidays that you can catch this time of year!

Over at Universal Island’s of Adventure park, you can visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter -Hogsmeade. This time of year Hogsmeade embraces the spirit of the season! All of the shops and storefronts are festively decorated with garland and lights! You can catch a performance by the Frog Choir! This time of year they sing festive holiday songs.

Also throughout the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade, you will find a variety of special holiday treats and drinks to share! Once evening comes the night sky will dazzle with the projection of holiday spirit at The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle. At night you can experience a special projection show that lights up the Hogwarts castle! This amazing spectacular is called, The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle and it is a must see show during your holiday visit!

Contact your Kingdom Magic Vacations Travel Planner today to plan your next visit to the Universal Orlando Resort

You have made the decision to take the family on a trip to Walt Disney World. This trip may be many months away but there are things you can do while you wait for your magical trip to begin that will get the excitement started.  In my family the trip planning has become a special part of the whole trip experience.  There is so much fun in the anticipation of the upcoming trip.  Let me highlight five ways to get everyone in the family excited for the trip and make the waiting half the fun!

1. Listen to Disney Music and Watch Disney Movies

Disney music and movies are so fun and entertaining for the whole family. It is a favorite pasttime for my family to listen to Disney music and watch our favorite Disney Movies. You can find some great music to listen to while driving around with your family.  It will make your drive time more fun and keep you excited waiting for your Disney trip. Check out your favorite streaming services for great Disney movies and music. It is sure to get everyone excited.

2. Check out YouTube

YouTube is a great resource for learning all about the Disney Parks. If you want to see what is going on at Disney, you are sure to find a great video out there. This is a great way to show your family all that Disney World has to offer by seeing what other people have experienced while there. You can find things on rides, shows, resorts dining and so much more. If you have young children that may be a little afraid of certain rides, watching a video about the rides can prepare them and help you decide which rides are best for your family. This can help you decide what is a priority and then when it is time you will be able to secure the Fastpasses that you will want.

3.  Dining Reservations

There are so many places to eat at Walt Disney World. From quick service to signature dining, there is something that everyone will enjoy.  Check out the Dining section of the My Disney Experience app and have the family go through the menus of the restaurants and get everyone involved in making the dining reservations. Maybe let each member of the family pick a special restaurant for each day of your trip. Don’t forget to check out all the Character meal choices if this is something your family would enjoy and pick out the ones that sound the best to all of you.

4.  Save Money

It’s no secret that a Disney World vacation can become expensive so the months leading up to the trip is a great time to start a trip fund for souvenirs or a special experience.  You can make a cute Disney jar to save your money.  Get everyone involved and get creative. If your children get an allowance they can put some money in the jar.  For birthdays and Christmas the kids can ask for Disney gift cards to add to the savings. Parents can add to it with extra change at the end of each day.  Its fun to see how much you can save and then split up the money for souvenirs or use it for a special experience like one of the character dining meals or renting a boat or taking a carriage ride. There are so many possibilities and it will be fun deciding what to do with your extra cash!

5. Make a Disney Count Down

I know it may seem like your trip is a long way off and it is fun to have a countdown.  This is especially good for younger kids that don’t understand the concept of time.  There are so many count down ideas. From making your own like a chain to purchasing something premade.  There are many sites with ideas and printables or shops that sell really unique count down items.

I hope you enjoyed these ideas and can incorporate them into your Disney trip planning.

If you want to book a trip our Kingdom Magic Vacations travel planners are here to help.  Please call today to start planning your next magical Disney vacation.

The 2020 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will open January 17^th 2020 and run through February 24^th.  This festival will celebrate culinary, visual and performing arts.

One of the fan favorites of this Festival is the Disney Broadway Concert Series.  These concerts feature Broadway performers singing some beloved songs from Disney musicals.  We know some of the pairs of artists this year include Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland, Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey, Heidi Blickenstaff and Gavin Lee, and Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White.

The current lineup that Disney has announced today is as follows:

Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White

• January 17
• January 20 through 21
• January 24

Heidi Blickenstaff and Gavin Lee

• January 18 through 19
• January 22 through 23

Kissy Simmons, Heidi Blickenstaff, Alton Fitzgerald White and Gavin Lee

• January 25

Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey

• January 26
• January 28 through 29
• February 1 through 2
• February 5 through 6

TBD

• January 27
• January 30 through 31
• February 3 through 4
• February 7 through 8

Kara Lindsay, Kevin Massey and TBD

• February 9

Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland

• February 10
• February 12 through 13
• February 18 through 19
• February 22 through 23

TBD

• February 11
• February 14 through 17
• February 20 through 21

Ashley Brown, Josh Strickland and TBD

• February 24

These performances will take place at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm and 8:00 pm daily during the Festival dates.

Dining Packages

Dining packages are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner at participating EPCOT restaurants.  This reservation guarantees you seating at one of the three concerts held that day.  Dining packages will be available for booking starting November 14^th.

Contact your Kingdom Magic Vacation travel planner who can assist you in booking your trip to the Festival of the Arts!