Disney On Ice: Dream Big

You have likely seen the Disney advertisement for “Dream Big, Princess” which encourages girls to do exactly that. The highlight of Disney On Ice: Dream Big are the Disney Princesses. Some of the original princesses had shorter skating segments. But, the more recent and young age friendly princesses, stole the show. The Disney On Ice experience is one that our family has always enjoyed. If you’ve never been to Disney On Ice, you’re really missing out! The show is hosted by none other that Mickey & Minnie Mouse with several appearances by Goofy!

Safety Measures

Tickets for these events are sold in “seating pods”. This means that you buy a set of tickets based on how many people you would like to sit together. We purchased a pod of 4 for our family, but saw other groups with up to 8 people in the pod. There was a good mix of family pods and friend pods. It is up to you to create your pod! All guests over the age of 2 are required to wear a face covering. There were also markings on the floor leading up to concession and merchandise areas. Vendors were equipped with cash and card payment options.

Merchandise 

There was plenty of merchandise available for all of the children in attendance. Disney On Ice provided an array of t-shirts, plush dolls and Mickey Mouse bubble wands! Additionally, there were several kiosks set up with Disney On Ice specific concessions. We decided that we needed an icee in a Frozen themed cup, which had both Elsa and Anna on the sides. They also had cups that were fashioned like Olaf, the Disney Princesses and Moana, among others. Cotton candy adorned with either a princess tiara or Olaf hat was also available for purchase and many smiling faces filled the seats!

Disney Princesses (and Coco)

Disney On Ice: Dream Big, includes most of the original Disney Princesses. There were short skating segments highlighting popular tunes from several animated classics as well as Miguel from Disney/Pixar’s Coco. Belle and Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast performed “Be Our Guest” with very entertaining flatware. Similarly, Cinderella arrived in a stunning horse drawn carriage and skated gracefully with Prince Charming to “A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes” and special guests Anastasia and Drizella bumbled around the ice tripping and falling over themselves!

Afterwards, Maleficent took to the ice first for the Sleeping Beauty segment. The scene transitioned to Prince Philip fighting her as the dragon. Of course, he won and woke Aurora from her sleep! Additionally, there were segments including Rapunzel and Flynn Rider, Tiana and Prince Naveen and Miguel performed “Un Poco Loco” with many of his ancestors from the Land of the Dead for a scene from Coco. I know, I know – he isn’t a princess, but he was there and it was awesome!

Aladdin, Moana, The Little Mermaid and Frozen

Disney On Ice: Dream Big started with a classic. Aladdin was first act of the entire show and had the village setup where Aladdin meets Princess Jasmine and is running from the palace guards. The Genie was rubbed free from the lamp and granted Aladdin his wish to become…Prince Ali! To end, he and Jasmine fell in love and skated away to a whole new world, together. Moana drifted onto the ocean floor in her canoe. She was ready to find Maui and deliver the heart back to Te Feti. Together, the sang their way through their adventure and were ultimately successful in returning the heart!

Sebastian and King Triton’s daughters started the second half of Disney On Ice: Dream Big. Ariel is missing! We find her dreaming about dinglehoppers and Ursula convinces her to sign her voice away to go to land to get Prince Eric to fall in love with her. They defeat Ursula and Ariel and Prince Eric live happily ever after! Finally, the showstopper was without a doubt – Frozen! Anna and Elsa, along with Kristoff, Sven and Olaf dazzled the crowd with wishes of summer. Elsa belted “Let It Go” and as a result the arena was covered in a blanket of snow. Collectively, the voices of hundreds of tiny fans joined her. Hans (ew!) tried to defeat Anna and Elsa but as we all know, an act of true love with thaw a frozen heart and the kingdom was saved!

Coming To A Town Near You!

In conclusion, if you haven’t attended Disney On Ice: Dream Big, GO NOW! Shows will be taking place throughout the country through the end of April. Go to their website to check for available dates and times in a city near you. You and your kids will really enjoy seeing some magic in your own backyard. I mean, just look at this face! She LOVED IT!

What are some of your favorite “non-park” activities? Do your kids have different favorite things than you? Skate over to DISNEY EXPRESS LANE and let us know! One of our favorites is to Whip Up Some Disney Inspired Dole Whip Cupcakes At Home. Are you ready to plan your next trip to Walt Disney World? Contact our friends over at Walt Express Travel to get a free, no obligation quote TODAY! 

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Not So Ordinary Things

When planning for a Disney World vacation, there are LOTS of things to remember. 2020 has added EVEN more to that list. These not so ordinary things will definitely help you not be surprised when visiting Disney World this year or even early next year

• Security IS a big deal, as it should be. Please do not take pictures or videos of the security personnel, areas around the security spots or the process of getting into the parks. This is for your protection as well as others and cast members.
• Not all shops are open. There are a lot of shops that aren’t open right now. You will also find that in most shopping areas (in the parks), there is a one way direction going. Entrance will be for entering only and the exit will be for exiting only. There are cast members at each spot making sure everyone is going in the same general direction. No back tracking in the stores!
• Take breaks (mask breaks). Yes, you would normally take breaks from walking, but we are referring to taking a mask break. There are locations in each park called, RELAXATION STATIONS. These are spots where you can rest from your mask for a bit. The current rule is you cannot take your mask off unless you are at a relaxation station or eating or drinking, while stationary. Get used to wearing the mask for long periods of time before your vacation.
• Characters greet you differently. Characters are around, just not in the way they have been in the past. There will be no interaction between you and the characters. As of right now, there will be no fireworks or parades. But, there have been some mini, pop up parades spotted with characters. Again, there is just no personal interacting with them.
• Temperature checks upon entrance to the parks AND entering a dining establishment.

Not So Ordinary Things PLUS ONE

Have patience. This one can be hard for some people, but patience is KEY right now. With social distancing guidelines in place, we need to feel AND be safe. Not just us, but cast members as well. Do you part by having a little patience.

If you are planning on visiting Disney World soon, here are five items that you may want to consider bringing along!

Did you know that we have friends over at Walt Express Travel that stays up-to-date on all things Disney? They would LOVE to help you plan your next Disney vacation. We also have a Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE, where you can find tons of great information, tips and tricks!

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Heading to Walt Disney World but not sure if your kids are going to recognize all the characters? Or Does your kid have a favorite character that will make or break your trip to see? Here is a great list of Disney Movies To Watch to help breakdown what rides go with which movie, as well character dining and even character meet and greets!

Disney Movies To Watch

So, pick out your favorites or possibly your new favorite movies and start watching a new one every weekend leading up to your trip! This is even a great idea if you are surprising your kids with the trip! They won’t realize that they are getting prepped and it will be a nice way to spend an evening together.

Be sure to check out this HEIGHT REQUIREMENT blog before you go to make sure you choose attractions that everyone can enjoy!

Look for the abbreviation next to each activity to see what park you can find it at. If there isn’t an abbreviation then that dining is at a resort instead. Pop some popcorn and let’s get started!

AK Animal Kingdom

HS Hollywood Studios

E Epcot

MK Magic Kingdom

A Bug’s Life

Rides

• It’s Tough to be a Bug! AK

Alice in Wonderland (Animated version)

Rides

• Mad Tea Party MK

Dining

• Wonderland Tea Party at 1900 Park Fare for Breakfast

Meet and Greet

• Alice at the Mad Tea Party MK
• Alice in the United Kingdom E

Aladdin

Rides

• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin MK

Dining 

• Jasmine has been known to appear at Cinderella’s Royal Table MK

Meet and Greet

• Aladdin and Jasmine in Adventureland MK
• Jasmine in Morrocco E

Avatar

Rides

• Flight of Passage AK
• Na’vi River Journey AK

Beauty and the Beast

Rides

• Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage HS

Dining

• Beast at Be Our Guest MK
• Belle at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall E
• Belle has been known to appear at Cinderella’s Royal Table MK

Meet and Greet

• Enchanted Tales with Belle MK
• Belle in France E
• Gaston near His Tavern MK

Big Hero Six

Meet and Greet

• Baymax at Hiro’s Workshop E

Brave

Meet and Greet

• Merida at Fairytale Garden MK

Cars

Rides

• Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy HS

Cinderella

Rides

• Prince Charming Regal Carrousel MK

Dining

• 1900 Park Fare (Dinner) MK
• Akershus Royal Banquet Hall E
• Cinderella’s Royal Table MK

Meet and Greet

• Cinderella at Princess Fairytale Hall MK

Dumbo

Rides

• Dumbo the Flying Elephant MK

Finding Nemo

Rides

• Bruce’s Shark World E
• Finding Nemo AK 
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends E
• Turtle Talk with Crush E

Frozen

Rides

• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration HS
• Frozen Ever After E

Meet and Greet

• Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus E
• Olaf at the Celebrity Spotlight HS

Haunted Mansion

Rides

• Haunted Mansion MK

Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark

Rides

• Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular HS

Inside Out

Meet and Greet

• Joy and Sadness at Headquarters E

Dining

• Joy and Sadness at Pixar Party: A New Year’s Celebration

Lilo and Stitch

Dining

• ‘Ohana (Breakfast)

Monster’s Inc.

Rides

• Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor MK

Dining

• Mike and Sulley at Pixar Party: A New Year’s Celebration

Meet and Greet

• Mike and Sulley at Walt Disney Presents HS

Mulan

Meet and Greet

• Mulan in China E

Peter Pan

Rides

• Peter Pan’s Flight MK

Meet and Greet

• Peter Pan in Fantasy MK
• Tinker Bell at Town Square Theater MK

Pirates of the Caribbean

Rides

• A Pirate’s Adventure – Treasure of the Seas MK
• Pirates of the Caribbean  MK

Pocahontas

Meet and Greet

• Pocahontas at Discovery Island Trails AK

Princess and the Frog

Meet and Greet

• TIana at Princess Fairytale Hall MK

Sleeping Beauty

Dining

• Akershus Royal Banquet Hall E
• Perfectly Princess Tea at Grand Floridian’s Garden View Tea Room
• Aurora has been known to appear at Cinderella’s Royal Table MK

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Rides

• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train MK

Dining

• Akershus Royal Banquet Hall E
• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Story Book Dining at Artist Point (Dinner)
• Snow White has been known to appear at Cinderella’s Royal Table MK

Meet and Greet

• Snow White in Germany E

Star Wars

Rides

• Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple HS
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run HS
• Star Tours – The Adventure Continues HS
• Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away HS

Dining

• Oga’s Cantina

Meet and Greet

• BB-8 Astromech on Duty HS
• Darth Vader at Star Wars Launch Bay HS
• Chewbacca at Star Wars Launch Bay HS
• Disney Visa Card-member Character Experience HS

Swiss Family Robinson

Rides

• Swiss Family Tree house MK

Tangled

Dining

• Rapunzel and Flynn Rider at Bon Voyage Adventure (Breakfast)

Meet and Greet

• Rapunzel at Princess Fairy-tale Hall MK

The Incredibles

Dining

• Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl at Pixar Party: A New Year’s Celebration

The Lion King

Rides

• Festival of the Lion King AK

Dining

• Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Night AK

The Little Mermaid

Rides

• The Voyage of The Little Mermaid HS
• Under the Seas – Journey of the Little Mermaid MK

Dining

• Akershus Royal Banquet Hall E
• Ariel and Prince Eric at Bon Voyage Adventure (Breakfast)
• Ariel has been known to appear at Cinderella’s Royal Table MK

Meet and Greet

• Ariel at Her Grotto MK

The Muppets

Rides

• Muppets Vision 3D HS

The Three Caballeros

Rides

• Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros E

The Twilight Zone

Rides

• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror HS

Toy Story

Rides

• Alien Swirling Saucers HS
• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin MK
• Slinky Dog Dash HS
• Toy Story Mania! HS

Dining

• Buzz, Woody, Jessie and Bullseye at Pixar Party: A New Year’s Celebration

Meet and Greet

• Buzz Lightyear in Tomorrowland MK
• Buzz, Woody and Jessie in Toy Story Lank HS

Up

Rides

• UP! A Great Bird Adventure AK

Dining

• Dug and Russel at Pixar Party: A New Year’s Celebration

Meet and Greet

• Russell and Dug at Discovery Island AK

Winnie the Pooh

Rides

• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh MK

Dining

• 1900 Park Fare Breakfast
• Winnie the Pooh and Friends at The Crystal Palace MK

Meet and Greet

• Winnie the Pooh and Tigger at The Thotful Spot MK

Wreck it Ralph

Meet and Greet

• Ralph and Vanellope inside ImagineWorks E

BONUS!

**Mickey, Minnie and Friends-The Fab Five

Dining

• Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast
• Chef Mickey’s
• Chip and Dale and Pals at Garden Grill Restaurant
• Goofy and Pals at Ravello for Breakfast
• Minnie and her Friends for Seasonal Dining at Hollywood and Vine HS
• Safari Donald Duck and Friends at Tusker House AK

Meet and Greet

• Disney Visa Cardmember Character Experience E
• Daisy near World Showcase Plaza E
• Daring Disney Pals as Circus Stars at Pete’s Silly Side Show MK
• Dashing Disney Pals as Circus Stars at Pete’s Silly Side Show MK
• Disney Pals at Epcot Character Spot E
• Donald Duck in Mexico E
• Disney Pals at Adventure Outpost AK
• Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theater MK
• Pluto at Legacy Plaza West E
• Mickey and Minnie Starring in Red Carpet Dreams HS
• Move! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party MK

**Disney Junior Shows

Rides

• Disney Junior Dance Party! (Currently Doc McStuffins, Vampirinia, Timon and Mickey) HS

Dining

• Disney Junior Characters at Hollywood and Vine (Breakfast) HS

Meet and Greet

• Disney Junior Pals in Animation Courtyard HS

**Fantasmic! HS

• Beauty and the Beast, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, The Lion King, Pocahontas, Snow white and the Seven Dwarfs HS

**Mickey’s PhilharMagic MK

• Music from Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Peter Pan, and Aladdin MK

Disney Movies To Watch BEFORE You Go!

This should be enough to really get you started! LOL! This list may not contain every single Disney movie related to something at Disney World, but it should definitely be enough to have you prepared!

What is your favorite Disney movie? We would love to hear from you in our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE!

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Cruella’s Halloween Hide-A-Way

Guests may join Cruella at Tony’s Town Square Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom for a chance to meet Cruella herself. During your dining experience Cruella will visit your table for an opportunity to chat with her, while feasting on delicious Halloween themed foods. A Witches Cauldron bubbling and boiling with a wonderful spinach dip served with ciabatta crustini’s is just one of the ghoulish treats you will find. We know there will be plenty of freakishly delicious treats to please just about any kind of appetite. You will also be allowed to “come and go” during this three hour event.

The dinner experience will take place at Tony’s Town Square Restaurant from 9:30 pm to 12:30 pm on select nights during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. This is an extra ticketed event, with tickets currently costing $99.00 per person plus tax. You will not be allowed to use dining credits for this dining experience. As with most dining experiences in Disney World, advanced ticket purchases are highly recommended.

Don’t forget the dessert! Plenty of desserts will be available for guests to enjoy before allowing to view Mickey’s Boo-to You Halloween parade from special reserved seating, only available to those attending Cruella’s soiree. You will dine on chocolate-dipped strawberries, cheesecake and mini cannoli, Kanine Krunchy cake and Mini De Vil brownies and a variety of beverages including beer and wine selections for guests ages 21 and above.

Dates for Cruella’s Halloween Hide-A-Way

• August 16, 20, 23, 27, 30
• September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29
• October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31
• November 1

Important Details

• Valid admission ticket for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is required and not included in the price
• Guests will be able to check in at the podium in Tony’s Town Square Restaurant beginning at 9:00 PM
• Reserved viewing in Town Square for the 11:00 PM Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is included in this event
• Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is subject to change or cancellation without notice. Refunds will not be administered due to parade cancellation or modification
• Price will be $99 per person, plus tax

Tommorowland Terrace Halloween Fireworks Dessert Party

Cruella’s dining experience will not affect the Halloween Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace. This event will continue alongside Cruella’s Halloween Hideaway. This gives guests an opportunity to chose from having a VIP experience for the Halloween party fireworks, or the Boo To You parade. Both experiences are going to offer an amazing experience to your Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party! The dessert party, like Cruella’s dinner, is also an extra ticketed event. Tickets for the dessert party will cost $84.00 per person (plus tax) for guests over 10, and $50.00 (plus tax) per person ages 3-9. This event also requires that you have a valid ticket for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

Fun At Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Don’t forget about all the other fun activities available at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, such as trick or treating, characters dressed in their Halloween attire, amazing snacks only available during the party and costumes!! If you haven’t purchased your tickets to the 2019 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, it’s something you should look into doing. It sounds like it’s going to be an amazing year of firsts and new treats!

Tickets for the 2019 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and for Cruella’s Halloween Hide-A-Way are available for purchase NOW on the Disney World website or by calling (407) 939-7679. Ticket prices vary depending on which night you are planning on attending. Tuesday nights tend to be cheaper than a Friday night party, and Halloween night is most likely to be the busiest and most expensive, along with opening night in August.

For more Disney fun and information, join our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE!

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Disney 101: Character Dining At Disney World Parks & Resorts

What exactly is character dining and how does it work? Walt Express explains it all below!

What Kinds of Character Meals Does Disney offer?

Disney World has many options when it comes to dining with your favorite characters. From breakfasts with Mickey and friends to dinners with your favorite Disney Princesses, there is something for everyone! You can find character meals both in-park and at select Disney Resort Hotels, which means that you have so many options when trying to fit character dining into your plans!

What Are Some Important Things to Remember About Character Meals?

Disney World opens up dining reservations for everyone at 180 days before your trip. It is so important to schedule dining as early as possible so that you don’t miss out on your ‘must-dos’ for your trip! Dining reservations can be made via phone or online using your My Disney Experience account linked to your hotel reservation. (Also, when you use a Disney Travel Planner they will help you plan out and make these reservations, so you don’t have to wait on the phone and stress about getting your magical dining plans. They will take the stress out of it for you! (Grab a FREE quote here!)

If you are staying on property at a Disney World Resort, you are allowed the 180 days, PLUS you have a little bonus! You will be able to book your dining for the duration of your stay.

Where Can We Find Character Meals?

Character meals are available both in the Disney parks and the Disney Resort Hotels. We love having the choice to go to a meal at a Resort hotel because it gives a chance to explore other resorts during our stay. One of our very favorite things to do is eat at the three hotels on the monorail system near Magic Kingdom: Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian. Each of these hotels offer its own unique dining opportunities, and it’s so fun to be able to enjoy the theming and the grounds of one of these resorts after a meal!

Here’s a quick list of some resort dining experiences, with the resort listed:

• Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast: 

Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort (featuring Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Ariel and Prince Eric)

• Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast: 

Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort (featuring Minnie Mouse and friends)

• Best Friends Breakfast:

Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort (featuring Stitch, Mickey, and friends)

• Chef Mickey’s Funtime Buffet:

Disney’s Contemporary Resort (featuring Mickey and Friends)

• Supercalifragilistic Breakfast:

1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa (featuring Mary Poppins, Alice, the Mad Hatter, Winnie the Pooh and Tigger)

• Cinderella’s Happily Ever Dinner: 

1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa (featuring Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine and the Ugly Stepsisters at lunch and dinner)

As fun as dining at a resort is, having a character meal in park also can be a HUGE time saver for your family so that you can have those amazing character experiences, but still fit in as much park time as possible! In-park character dining options are just as fun and the experiences are still high-quality, without sacrificing the time it can take to leave a park and make your way to a resort for a meal!

Here is a quick list of some in-park dining experiences, by park:

Disney’s Magic Kingdom:

• Fairytale Dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table (featuring Cinderella and her Disney Princess friends)
• The Crystal Palace featuring Winnie the Pooh and Friends
• Be Our Guest (featuring The Beast at dinner-this can change sometimes)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine Hollywood and Vine (featuring Disney Junior characters)-during breakfast.
• Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood and Vine (seasonal meals and table activities!)-during lunch and dinner.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Tusker House (featuring Safari Donald Duck)-available for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Epcot

• Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill (featuring Chip, Dale, Pluto and Mickey)-available for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Princess Storybook Dining at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (featuring the Disney Princesses)-available for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

What Else Should I Know?

• When planning character dining, be sure that you have checked out how many table credits a meal uses! You also need to plan on paying tax and gratuity for every dinner except at Cinderella’s Royal Table. Here is a great guide that will help!
• Be sure to give yourself plenty of time for a character meal! Sometimes characters can take a little bit of time to make the rounds, so be sure to give yourself at least an hour so that you have a chance to spend quality time with each one!
• Disney photographers aren’t normally available at Character meals except for a designated picture taking area, so be sure that you have your own personal cameras ready to take pictures!
• If you need someone to take a picture for you, be sure to ask a cast member and they will normally be more than happy to help.
• If you are gathering autographs, be sure to bring your autograph books along too!

Don’t be afraid to try character meals both in and out of the Disney parks. Each one is unique with different food options and special touches that you can’t get anywhere else! Here at Walt Express we also have lots of reviews that you can check out before your 180 day booking window. We also can help you access menus so that you can take a look at food choices before you book! Character meals are perfect for getting a great meal, making memories, and getting 1-on-1 time with your favorite Disney characters. What’s not to love?

Looking for even MORE Disney information and fun? We have a wonderful Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE!

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Reservations Available NOW For Storybook Dining At Artist Point

Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, it’s a new character dining experience!! Snow White and her friends are inviting you and your family to dine with them at Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. We have “heard” that you might even encounter an evil queen!! EEKKKKKK!!!!

Reservations are NOW available to book. This dining experience will be available at the Artist Point beginning on December 16, 2018.

For the main entrées, you’ll enjoy your choice of one of the many unique dishes such as the Royal Prime Rib Roast with horseradish mashed potato, hay-smoked carrots, popover, and jus as well as Magic Mirror Slow Braised Veal Shank with mashed celery root, wilted winter greens, and jus. Or if seafood is more your style, try the Seafood Stew with shrimp, bay scallops, mussels, tomato, and fennel.

Kids can enjoy Grumpy’s Grub. This includes the same appetizers and desserts as the main menu and their choice of entrée. Kid’s entrées include the Princess Pasta (with your choice of red sauce or cheese sauce), the Vegetarian Steam Bun (with crip shiitake, hoisin, pickles, and cilantro), Royal Prime Rib Roast, and Grilled Chicken (both served with roasted potatoes and broccolini).

Snow White has invited all of her new friends to this magical character dining experience, and she’s inviting you too! So make a journey to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge to experience Storybook Dining at Artist Point starting December 16, 2018.

Pricing

Pricing is $55 for adults and $33 for children ages 3-9 (tax and gratuity not included). The Disney Dining Plan will also be accepted and it one table service per person.

For a full menu and to make reservations, visit the Walt Disney World Resort website or call (407) WDW-DINE (407 939-3463).

We would love to have you in our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE!

PHOTO CREDIT: Disney Parks Blog and WDW NEWS

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You can go the traditional route by using the all-known Disney Autograph books that are on every corner and in every store in the Disney Parks. Or you can get creative and collect Disney autographs the nontraditional way with something that can also be used as a keepsake or something that can be used everyday. Instead of collecting them in the traditional autograph book that will end up in a drawer at home anyway, let’s get creative!

The best option is to choose something that will allow you to display Disney character autographs where you can see them daily.

We carefully chose these items below, because they are easy to carry and do not take up a lot of room in your Disney Parks Bag or in your stroller. I know I don’t like lugging around a big and heavy item into the parks! These items are small, compact and lightweight!

9 Creative Ways To Collect Disney Character Autographs

1. Picture Mats: Picture Mats, like this 5×7 and this 4×6, are a great, easy and cheap way to display Disney character autographs. Whichever you pick, just make sure it has a large mat so the characters have plenty of room to write!
2. Pillowcases: Plain pillowcases with fabric markers are a perfect keepsake and can be seen every night!
3. Princess Sash: Just like the ones you would receive at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique! Princess sashes will create a lot of playtime fun for the little ones once you arrive back home. Don’t forget you fabric markers.
4. Disney Fabric Squares: Disney fabric squares can be used to make a keepsake quilt!
5. Backpacks: Perfect for Back-to-School! Grab your fabric markers and go!
6. Index Cards: If you are into scrapbooking. Index Cards would be perfect for characters to autograph.
7. Apron: If you are a cook and are looking for something unique for the characters to autograph, well grab you a plain white apron and fabric markers and you have a perfect keepsake!
8. T-Shirt: Grab a cute T-Shirt and head to the Parks for your favorite Disney Character Autographs! Don’t forget to grab your fabric markers.
9. Polaroid Snaps: While the photo quality will never be what you can get from a digital camera, Polaroid snapshots is a fun idea for teens and tweens wanting to collect autographs. Get your photo snapped and printed with the Polaroid, then the character can sign at the bottom of the photo in the white border. These would be fun to then hang in their school locker, home bulletin board, or make a fun craft with when you are at home!

Tips For Collecting Disney Character Autographs

• Please keep in mind that it is hard for costumed characters like Mickey and Pluto to see your items to have signed. Don’t pick items that are too small or they will have a hard time signing it or they won’t be able to sign it.
• Easy to open clickable/ retractable Sharpies are what the characters and their handlers prefer. Although I mentioned fabric markers a lot above you be the judge of what will work best on your items.
• If you do have a traditional autograph book, write your address in it. If you lose or forget it, you will have more of a chance of being reunited with it.
• If you do use a traditional autograph book make sure you have your book opened to the page you want autographed and your pen ready when you approach the character.

All Of The Items Mentioned In This Article

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H20 Glow Nights In Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Disney has promised an INCREDIBLE summer and BOY, OH BOY are they delivering!! With only a week before Toy Story Land is set to open, H20 Glow Nights will debut in Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.

Our friends from DISNEY PARKS BLOG has the scoop on how to enjoy these cool nights!

With glowing beach balls, inner tubes and other lighting effects, Disney H2O Glow Nights is a rare opportunity for guests to experience Typhoon Lagoon under the moonlight. On select nights beginning June 21, Typhoon Lagoon becomes a luminous, nighttime hotspot featuring a DJ Dance Party on the beach, plus special character meetings with Buzz, Woody and Jessie from Pixar’s “Toy Story,” as they visit Typhoon Lagoon for the first time. And let’s not forget about our host, Partysaurus Rex, who is inviting guests to this one-of-a-kind experience.

Guests can also play party games, try unique food and beverage treats and enjoy all attractions at the water park with minimal wait times, including Crush ‘n’ Gusher, a thrilling water coaster and Miss Adventure Falls, the newest attraction at Typhoon Lagoon.

You can join “Dinosaur of Ceremonies” Rex and some of his Toy Story pals for this can’t-miss party in the Park, where special lighting and entertainment promise to transform this watery world like never before. From 8 p.m.–11 p.m. each evening, you will practically have the run of the place as they enjoy access to all of the Park’s amazing attractions, Character Greetings with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie, a DJ dance party on the beach and more. Adults will even get to enjoy The Wharf––an exclusive location featuring a bar area with refreshing libations available for purchase.

Pricing

Tickets to Disney H2O Glow Nights are $55 plus tax per adult (10+) and $50 plus tax per child (3–9), and the number available is limited.

Admission to this event requires a separately priced ticket valid only during specific event dates and hours. Entertainment offerings subject to change without notice. Water Parks subject to weather closures.

We would love to see you in our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE!

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Toy Story Land Update: New Character Meet And Greet In Hollywood Studios

In a few short months, Toy Story Land will be the “shiny new toy” in Disney World and we couldn’t be more excited! Our friends from Disney Parks Blog has the update on brand new character meet and greets arriving when this fantastic new land opens!

From Disney Parks Blog

As regular readers know, we’ve been sharing updates on what to expect when Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios opens to guests on June 30. Today, we’re excited to let you know that inside this new land, you’ll have the chance to encounter some of your favorite characters from the Disney•Pixar “Toy Story” films, including Sheriff Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie the Yodeling Cowgirl.

Woody, Buzz and Jessie will be greeting guests throughout Toy Story Land on a daily basis. And each character (along with the rest of the gang) will be joining in on the fun in a land where guests “shrink” to the size of a toy. Guests will be also be able to take a ride on Slinky Dog Dash, a roller coaster Andy has assembled from his Mega Coaster Play Kit, or take a spin on Alien Swirling Saucers, a galactic play set that Andy won at Pizza Planet.

Toy Story Land guests can also walk through a new carnival game box to experience Toy Story Mania!, which has been a guest-favorite attraction at the park since it opened in 2008. Now expanded with a third track, the popular attraction will allow even more guests to take aim at 3D objects – using everything from baseballs to cream pies – in a variety of whimsical, fast-paced games.

More Toy Story Land

If you are like us and can’t get enough Toy Story Land news, check out: SLINKY DOG DASH or TOY STORY LAND OPENS JUNE 30!

For more information on AMAZING character meet and greets, just click the link!

Head on over to our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE, for more updates and lots of Disney fun!

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Top 8 Tips for Amazing Character Meet and Greets

Character interactions can be some of the best memory making moments at Walt Disney World. However, most people simply stand in line, give the character a hug, have them sign an autograph book and move along. But character meet and greets can be so much more than that. Say goodbye to boring character interactions and HELLO to fun and interactive meet and greet with our Top 8 Tips for Amazing Character Meet and Greets.

1) Have a Plan

Yes, I know, here we go with the planning talk again. But seriously, having a plan is part of the fun. Meeting characters is no different than riding popular rides and attractions. If you know you want to meet a certain characters, have a plan so you know when and where to find those characters. Plan meet and greets by looking at the My Disney Experience app before you leave home. Some characters even have Fastpass options, so let your travel planner know if you want to book one of those as one of your selections ASAP. Pick at least one character to meet for each child and talk about fun things to say or do when you meet them. It may not go as planned, but it sure is fun to think about funny or sweet things to say. Sometimes you even come away with an unforgettable experience. For funny things to say and do with characters, check out our friend Kenny the Pirate HERE. He gives some of the best advice on ways to interact with every character.

2) Be Prepared 

Children are often startled when they meet characters. My family likes to meet the face characters first (like Peter Pan, the princesses, etc) to warm our children up to the idea of meeting characters. We do this mainly because the interaction is best with face characters since they do talk. Fur characters, on the other hand, can seem a bit scary to some children. Remember that most children don’t expect Mickey, Pluto, Goofy, etc to be quite so big. Some characters are also a bit scary by nature. Kylo Ren is intimidating even for some adults.

To better prepare your children for their size, look up videos and pictures of friends who may have gone and show those to your children before you leave to go on vacation. This can help them be better prepared for the size of some of these characters.  Children might also expect all characters you meet to talk, but “fur” characters do not. The only exception to this rule is Mickey Mouse in Town Square Theater. You can find out more about him HERE. We tell our children that a lot of the characters like to save their voices for t.v. appearances, parades, etc.

Finally, buy an autograph book first thing when you arrive at the parks and bring along one of the big, click type sharpies. These larger pens are easier for characters to grasp and the autographs come out looking so much better. Don’t forget that autograph books make great souvenirs for your children. We love the books that have a spot where you can add a picture. We have also seen a ton of cute alternatives to autograph books in the parks, so don’t feel like you are limited to a book.

3) Brush Up On Your Disney Characters and Movies

Speaking of preparation, you should also prepare to meet the characters by brushing up on your Disney history. Watch movies, read the Disney versions of the fairy tales, talk about the things you know the character likes and make guesses about what some of their favorite things might be. While waiting in line to meet many of my favorite characters, I have noticed that a lot of children and even adults are not familiar with the characters. Spending time before your vacation watching the animated films and watching Disney cartoons can really make your character experiences so much better, plus it’s a fun way to get everyone excited for your vacation!

4) Make introductions when you meet characters

This can ease a child’s fears and help them warm up to the characters.  If your child still seems shy, continue to chat with the character and try to involve the child by talking about mutual interests between the child and the character. For example, if you are meeting Peter Pan talk to Peter about how much you always wanted to be able to fly.  Ask him if Tink keeps pixie dust with her and if she could help you fly. Children will often take your lead and warm up eventually. If a chid is visibly upset or scared, you have two choices: hold your child or position him/her on the opposite side of you from the character and grab a quick picture or try back at a different time later in the trip.

5) Talk about proper character interaction

Once your children warm up to characters, the interactions get better and better. However, there are a few things to remind children about as they start interacting more. Hugs are good, but try to stay in front of the character. Wait until they are facing you to walk towards them and interact. If you run up behind them, they may not see you. Talk loud and clear so they can hear you. Finally, please remind your children that hitting, running, or roughhousing around a character is never okay. It can even be dangerous, because characters could accidentally step on a child or fall over.

6) Say Cheese

Have your camera, or phone at the ready before it’s your turn. I love to video some of the interactions so we can watch them back later. At most meet and greets, a Photopass Photographer will on hand to take pictures but you can also ask them to take pictures on your smart phone or camera. They are always happy to do so at no extra charge.

7) Consider adding Memory Maker To Your Package

Memory Maker is a great add on to any package, especially if you are staying at least 3 days. Every picture that is taken at the parks by a Photopass Photographer will show up within a few hours in your My Disney Experience account. If you pre-purchase Memory Maker, you can even download them to your device and share them as soon as they show up in the app. Plus, you get to be in ALL of the pictures instead of being behind the lens all the time.

Here’s a little bonus tip from Cheap Girl herself: if you have more than one family vacationing together, you can maximize the value by sharing Memory Maker with your travel party and splitting the cost. Simply add your travel party as friends and family on My Disney Experience and ask the Photopass Photographer to scan your band when you meet a character. If you want to learn more about Memory Maker, check out our Disney 101: Photopass and Memory Maker blog HERE.

8) Get In On The Fun

You may not feel camera ready, but you won’t regret hopping in to those pictures when you look back on this vacation years later. These moments and pictures will be cherished for a long time. So go ahead and hand that camera or phone over to the Photopass photographer and get in those pictures.

Do you love meeting characters at Disney parks? What are your best tips for great interactions? Share your tips with us and discuss this and anything and everything Disney in the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group.

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