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Important Holiday Changes at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World has made some temporary adjustments "to help provide a great experience for our guests." From December 19 to January 3, 2022 Disney World resort guests will get Extra Park Time! The early theme park entry benefit for Disney Resort hotel Guests and Guests of other select hotels will be extended from 30 minutes to 60 minutes.

Plus, more attractions will be included in Disney Genie+ service and will not be included as an individual Lightning Lane entrance purchase option. Attractions that are now part of Lightning Lane include:

• Magic Kingdom Park: Space Mountain
• EPCOT: Frozen Ever After
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park: Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

From the Enchanting Extras Collection - Tours are Coming Back to Walt Disney World

Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom
This five-hour walking tour Explores the history of Magic Kingdom Park, including backstage access to the hidden “Utilidor” service tunnels. You'll also learn hidden secrets of classic attractions and lunch is included. You must be 16 or older for this tour.

Caring for Giants
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park this one-hour tour offers an unforgettable experience to meet some of the park's largest inhabitants. Your guide will provide insights into the inner workings of the African elephant herd including a look a the day-to-day care for these amazing animals. You'll see these gentle giants from a private, backstage viewing area and learn how Disney’s conservation efforts help to preserve wild elephant populations around the world. 

Wild Africa Trek
One of our favorites, Wild Africa Trek combines action, adventure and education into a three-hour safari adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. Cross a swinging rope bridge near crocodiles and view giraffes, rhinos, hippos and more on foot and in a safari vehicle. The guides are excellent and will share insights about all the animals you see plus details about the park. Recommended.

Up Close with Rhinos

Want to get even closer to nature? This one-hour tour takes you backstage to the second largest land animal in ways few people can. You'll meet the white rhinos at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and get insights into their behavior and biology and more.

Savor the Savanna
This one's a little different. It explores the sights, sounds and tastes of Africa on Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park’s Savor the Savanna tour. Get samplings of African-inspired cuisine, paired with a selection of regional beer and wine offerings from a great spot overlooking the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Your private guide will share stories about the unique residents who inhabit the reserve and the special animal care provided at the park. 

Advance bookings are highly recommended for all tours and valid theme park admission and reservations.

In addition, Disney has let it slip that the Starlight Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge may be next, so watch out for news on that one.

Disney Cruise Line Selects Port Everglades as Second Year-round Home Port in Florida

The Broward County Commission and Disney Cruise Line announced a new agreement naming Port Everglades as Disney’s second year-round homeport in Florida. This is a 15-year partnership that provides for one ship to be homeported in Port Everglades year-round starting fall 2023, joined by a second, seasonal ship in 2025.

Adding Port Everglades as a second homeport gives Disney a dedicated terminal in a market with direct highway access and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Disney’s original homeport is Port Canaveral, located in Central Florida.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

Spring is already in the air at Walt Disney World as the horticulture team is busy creating topiaries, hanging baskets, flower towers and more in preparation for the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. The 2022 edition will run March 2 through July 4. That’s 125 days of festival cuisine, gardens, topiaries and entertainment.

The 2022 edition will feature a new Goofy topiary and a 50th-themed birthday cake. Other favorite Disney Character topiaries will include Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Germany pavilion or Lumiere and Cogsworth welcoming you to the expanded France pavilion.

As always, gardeners can enjoy thousands of blooms forming colorful, living panoramas all around and for foodies, fresh flavors are on the menu at the festival’s 18 Outdoor Kitchens plus other food and beverage locations around EPCOT.

The Garden Rocks Concert Series will return in 2022 at the America Gardens Theatre. This list of which musicians will be playing has yet to be released.

To visit the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival you'll need valid admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date. 

New Shops and Photo Opps at Downtown Disney

Pelé Soccer
Soccer fans will enjoy the stadium-themed store with a wide assortment of soccer gear from renowned global sports brands at this specialty shop named after Pelé, the legendary Brazilian superstar and one of the greatest soccer players of all time. Watch for official club and national team jerseys from around the world, sports apparel, cleats, balls and more for the whole family. Jerseys can be customized with a name and number.

Post 21
Located on the east end of the district, Post 21 is new kiosk from an inspiring mother-daughter team from Los Angeles who have curated modern unique merchandise from Black-owned businesses. 

Boba Fett’s Throne (photo opp)
Take a photo sitting on a replica of the throne featured in the Disney+ Original Series, “The Book of Boba Fett.” For a limited time, located outside of the entrance at the Star Wars Trading Post, 

Lovepop (Coming Soon)
 Opening soon, Lovepop is the place to find eye-catching 3D pop-up cards, stationery and gifts. Lovepop has more than 400 designs so something for every occasion. And yes, Lovepop carries a collection of Disney cards and gifts.

Bonus News!

Disneyland is turning Mickey's ToonTown house into a private party location. This very unique and limited-time experience runs from January 19 through March 6 (before the land closes for refurbishment). Bookings can be made at disneyland.com/celebratemickeystoontown

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast wi...

Coming back to Disneyland in 2022: Sweethearts’ Nite, Villains Nite and Star Wars Nite 

Disneyland After Dark events take place after regular park hours with festivities, special nighttime entertainment, access to most attractions with reduced wait times (although this is not always a guarantee, as we have experienced long wait times during ticketed events). There are special things to do not typically available during regular park visits.

With each ticketed Disneyland After Dark event, you get up to four hours of fun after the parks close to regular visitors. Plus, you can arrive early for a three-hour pre-party mix-in at the same park before the event begins.

At each event, you also get unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party, plus commemorative keepsakes including a souvenir credential and event guide map.

Here are the details for each of the upcoming themed nights:

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite

February 1, 3, 8, 10 and 14, 2022, at Disneyland Park (now on sale on Disneyland.com)

Sweethearts’ Nite at Disneyland Park on five separate nights in February. The final night is, not surprisingly, Valentine’s Day. Here’s what to expect:

• A special themed fireworks show
• Projection effects on Sleeping Beauty Castle and Main Street, U.S.A.
• A jazz ensemble aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat, plus other live entertainment, including a Royal Ball and a dance party with a DJ
• Spot the most darling Disney couples, and take selfies with your favorites
• Fun photo opportunities featuring romantic scenes from iconic Disney films
• Lovely décor, along with food and beverage offerings around the park
• Plus, early admission to Disneyland park starting at 5:00 p.m., no theme park reservation required

Disneyland After Dark: Villains Nite

March 8 and 10, 2022, at California Adventure (on sale on Disneyland.com, as of January 11, 2022)

At Villains Nite you get to party with some of Disney’s most infamous villains at Disney California Adventure Park. Tickets will go fast as it's just two nights in March. Here's what you get:

• The Cauldron is a cabaret show featuring a cast of villains showing off their talents through song and dance
• Ursula’s Seaside Sing-a-long, where you can find your voice
• The Underworld Dance Party, which allows you to bust a move at a DJ dance party in the Hollywood Backlot
• Special photo backdrops, featuring scenes inspired by some favorite villains
• Some of Disney’s infamous villains – or their sidekicks – at special locations in the park
• Devilishly decadent food and drink offerings
• Early admission to Disney California Adventure park beginning at 5 p.m., no theme park reservation required

Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite 

May 3, 4 and 27, 2022, at Disneyland Park (on sale Disneyland.com, beginning January 11, 2022)

Star Wars Nite features galactic fun on three separate nights at Disneyland Park in May 2022. Highlights of Star Wars Nite include:

• A pyrotechnic show that will light up the night with a Star Wars-themed fireworks show
• March of the First Order, featuring Captain Phasma and her elite unit of Stormtroopers
• A Galactic dance party
• Sightings of various Star Wars characters throughout the evening  
• Star Wars-themed attractions, usually with shorter wait times
• Star Wars-themed eats and treats, merchandise, photo opportunities, and more
• Plus, early admission to Disneyland park starting at 6 p.m., no theme park reservation required

If you bought a ticket for the 2020 Disneyland After Dark: Villains Nite or Star Wars Nite, you can exchange you 2020 tickets to one of the nights of the new event of the same theme. You may need to pay a small price difference if the new show costs more. 

 
Is It Possible to Visit Walt Disney World or Disneyland Without a Phone?

We tackle this hot topic on this week's show and share our thoughts on why it's a good thing that you'll need a digital device to get the most out of your Disney Parks vacation.

Even More Entertainment Returning to Disneyland in 2022

“Celebrate Gospel!”

A celebration of the soulful spirit of Gospel music will return with “Celebrate Gospel!” on select days in February. The event moves to the Fantasyland Theater at Disneyland park.

“Tale of the Lion King”

Sometime in the spring, the Fantasyland Theater at Disneyland park will become home to “Tale of the Lion King.” It debuted in 2019 at Disney California Adventure park and then covid hit. The Storytellers of the Pride Lands are a troupe of traveling performers who present Simba’s journey in a unique story with live music and dance.

“Main Street Electrical Parade”

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the “Main Street Electrical Parade” will make its big return to Disneyland park! 

“Fantasmic!”

“Fantasmic!” is coming back too. It's nearly 30 years old at Disneyland park and it's Disney’s longest-running nighttime spectacular.

“World of Color”

World of Color is getting set to light up the night at Paradise Bay in Disney California Adventure park this spring.

“Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular

“Disneyland Forever” coming back with some surprising special effects. Main Street, U.S.A., and other spots in Disneyland park will become the canvas as a world of dreams takes over the park. From “Peter Pan” flying over the London skyline, to a dance with King Louie in “The Jungle Book” it's all back. Plus, two original songs, “Live the Magic” and the closing song “Kiss Goodnight,” both written by Disney Legend Richard Sherman.

Festival of the Arts Update (Jan 14 - Feb 21, 2022)

Last episode we talked about the Broadway performers...now it's food and art.

Art-inspired menus at 15 Food Studios throughout World Showcase. Deco Delights and The Craftman’s Courtyard will debut at the festival, featuring artfully presented cuisine and beverages as visually appealing as they are delicious. The complete foodie guide in early 2022.

Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – a food stroll with five sweet & savory offerings. Once you buy (and get your passport stamped) for all five, you’ll get an Artist Palette Cookie as a bonus.

Visual art -- over 100 Disney and visiting artists will showcase their works throughout EPCOT. See artists at work from the Disney Artist Gallery and the WonderGround Gallery, plus see pieces from ACME Archives, Thomas Kinkade Studios, Wyland Galleries and POP Gallery.

Figment also lends an artistic touch to this year’s festival merchandise collection.

Chalk artists will create masterpieces at C...

Two Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants are reopening, plus more treats to watch for...

Story Book Dining at Artist Point, themed after Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will reopen Dec. 16 at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
As part of the new Character Dining experience, guests will see Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and The Queen stroll through the Enchanted Forest while enjoying a bountiful prix fixe dinner with the choice of individually plated entrées and shared starters and desserts. Start with a refreshing cocktail like the Enchanted Apple with a hint of sour apple. The Royal Prime Rib Roast and the vegetarian A Stroll Through Nature are both returning as well as the decadent “Poison” Apple dessert with dark chocolate-apple mousse. 

Boatwright’s Dining Hall, a hidden gem at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside, will be serving its Southern specialties for dinner starting Dec. 14. 

The flavors of the Louisiana bayou are featured with the all-you-care-to-enjoy Chef’s Platter featuring ribs, Nashville hot chicken, smoked sausage, and barbecued beef brisket with mashed potatoes, mac & cheese, street corn, and green beans.
General Fulton’s Prime Rib and the Deep-South Shrimp and Grits, are back as well. Along with the signature Boatwright’s Jambalaya and the plant-based Boatwright’s Harvest Jambalaya. And for a Southern sweet dessert there's the Mississippi Mud Crème Brûlée, a decadent chocolate brûlée with a chocolate shortbread cookie.

Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts has the 50th Celebration Shake: a birthday-cake-flavored milkshake drizzled in gold glitter glaze topped with a slice of commemorative 50th celebration birthday cake.

Whispering Canyon Café at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is the place to be if you want to start your breakfast off with a bang of sweet and spice. Try the “Dynamite“ Cinnamon Roll Sticks -- Each order has five fiery red sticks filled with cinnamon schmear sprinkled with crushed red-hot candies and a drizzle of cinnamon oil. And for the dynamite wick – bacon! These sharable sticks of cinnamon goodness are served with a warm candied nut glaze.

The White Chocolate Peppermint Cream Cheese Mousse with peppermint sauce and chocolate cookie crumbles will be offered at Satu’li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park from Dec. 20-27. White chocolate, peppermint, and cream cheese mousse? 

La Crêperie de Paris is the newest addition to the France Pavilion at Epcot. It's now taking reservations for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features savory galettes and sweet dessert crêpes, along with some of Brittany’s famous hard ciders.

Guests can order from the prix fixe menu with the choice of soup of the day or salade maison; choice of one galette with a glass of hard cider, soda, or juice; choice of one dessert crêpe.

Festive Treats at Disney's Magic Kingdom Park

Magic Kingdom Park has two new offerings for The World’s Most Magical Celebration. Main Street Bakery has the Opening Day Celebration Cake that features milk chocolate mousse, raspberry center, and gluten-friendly chocolate cake topped with balloon sprinkles and a chocolate piece.

At Storybook Treats Grumpy gets his own Seven Dwarfs Specialty Cone – a cranberry vanilla soft-serve in a cone with a chocolate belt buckle and an adorable “Grumpy” chocolate face! It's a limited-time offer only available through Jan. 9.

Also at Magic Kingdom Park for a limited time is the Black Forest Cheesecake at Pinocchio Village Haus. This is a chocolate cheesecake topped with cherry compote, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a white chocolate coin inspired by the “it’s a small world” attraction.

Three refreshing holiday offerings are making a splash at Disney’s Water Parks from Dec. 12-Jan. 7. 

• Orange Bird Holiday Citrus Swirl –DOLE Whip Orange and Lime swirl in a holiday waffle cone, and a white chocolate Orange Bird Santa (available at Warming Hut) 
• Merry Merry Melon –Melon- and apple-flavored frozen rum cocktail with a red sugared rim topped with a cherry (available at Frostbite Freddie’s) 
• Peppermint Milkshake –Peppermint-flavored milkshake with white chocolate whipped cream and holiday sprinkles (available at Lottawatta Lodge)

The best spots for special holiday snaps at Walt Disney World 

There are holiday-themed Magic Shots at all four parks and Disney Springs so be sure to ask the PhotoPass photographer which Magic Shots they can offer at their location. 

At Magic Kingdom Park head to the photographer near the lawn in front of The Plaza Restaurant to enjoy our Super Zoom Magic Shot with a holly-jolly makeover.

At Disney Springs, the Disney PhotoPass Studio in the Marketplace is offering holiday themed virtual backdrops.

Also at Disney Springs you can get your photo with Santa at Once Upon a Toy. There is a Disney PhotoPass photographer so you don't have to do Santa selfies. There's a virtual queue available and masks are required for this indoor experience.

And if you want to add some extra holiday cheer to your photos, photographers at some locations have handheld props that you can use in your photos.   

Merchandise Mobile Check-Out

Since last year, Disney has been testing a new mobile checkout option (through My Disney Experience or Disneyland app) at select merchandise shops throughout Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. It's now being rolled out to more locations:

Walt Disney World 

• World of Disney at Disney Springs
• Creations Shop at EPCOT
• Emporium at Magic Kingdom Park – New!
• Mickey’s of Hollywood at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Coming soon!
• Island Mercantile at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – Coming soon! 

Disneyland Park

• Disney Clothiers, Ltd., China Closet and Plaza Point
• Emporium
• Pioneer Mercantile and Bonanza Outfitters – New!
• The Star Trader – New!

Disney California Adventure Park

• Elias & Co.
• WEB Suppliers – New!
• Knick's Knacks – New!

Downtown Disney District

• World of Disney 

Guests should check the My Disney Experience or Disneyland app* during your visit for the latest location availability.

Here's how it works...

When you're ready to shop, open the My Disney Experience or Disneyland app and scan the barcodes on your items as they add them to your bag. Once you're done shopping, you can check-out on mobile and show your purchase QR code -- and the items you bought -- to a Cast Member at the designated exit, and you're done. 

If you have an Annual Passholder, Magic Key or Disney Vacation Club discount make sure your pass or membership is linked to their Disney account, and the va...

Disney World Has Stopped Selling Annual Passes

In an effort to manage attendance an create a better guest experience, as of November 22, Disney has suspended sales of all Walt Disney World annual passes, with the sole exception of the Disney Pixie Pass for Florida residents.

Never saw this before Park Pass reservations, not a good trend.

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts celebrates the best in visual, culinary, and performing arts – runs January 14 – February 21, 2022.
 

2022 will feature the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series, with three performances each evening headlined by Broadway stars performing favorite songs from more than 25 years of award-winning DISNEY ON BROADWAY stage productions.

Here’s the full lineup of jaw-dropping talents performing at this year’s DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series:

• Arielle Jacobs (“Aladdin”) & Adam Jacobs (“Aladdin”)
• Kerry Butler (“Beauty and the Beast”) & Telly Leung (“Aladdin”)
• Heidi Blickenstaff (“Freaky Friday,” “The Little Mermaid”) & Robert Creighton (“Frozen”)
• Kara Lindsay (“Newsies”) & Dan DeLuca (“Newsies”)
• Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins”) & Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”)
• Kissy Simmons (“The Lion King”) & Michael James Scott (“Aladdin”)
• Feb. 21 – Special, extended finale performance featuring Brown, Strickland, Simmons & Scott

All shows are performed at America Gardens Theatre and are included with theme park admission. Look for more information soon about DISNEY ON BROADWAY Dining Packages. 

Ahead of its refresh in 2022, Downtown Disney is sparkling for the holiday season.

From sweets, to sips and savory bites. Watch for:  

• Marceline’s Confectionery – Mickey Peppermint Marshmallow, a Mickey Santa Cupcake, a Snowflake Caramel Apple and much more!
• Salt & Straw – Savor a scoop or pint of festive new flavors that embrace warmth and spice, such as Peppermint Cocoa, Gingerbread Cookie Dough, Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache and more
• Sprinkles – Get in the spirit with all three holiday cupcakes: Christmas Cookie, Gingerbread and Chocolate Peppermint.

Enjoy evening entertainment from a capella carolers throughout the season featuring Holiday Harmony, The Moonrays and The Sugarplums who perform near the Downtown Disney District main stage, Fridays through Sundays, Nov. 26-Dec. 26, 2021, along with our main stage bands.

Now through December 14, 2021, join the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive supporting Toys for Tots and give back to those in need this holiday season. Donate a toy online at shopDisney.com, or donate a new, unwrapped toy in person at Downtown Disney District. Donation bins are located near World of Disney and Star Wars Trading Post. Disney’s tradition of supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves’ Toys for Tots program dates back to Walt Disney, who personally supervised the creation of the Toys for Tots logo. Disney also was a founding sponsor of the program when it began in 1947. Today, the Disneyland Resort is proud to continue supporting this tradition.

The Holidays at the Hotels of Disneyland Resort

At Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, the lobby shines with a holiday tree adorned with an under-the-sea theme with blue, green and silver decorations and a garland glistening with shells and starfish. 

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel once again features its majestic, towering tree with ornaments inspired by the Arts & Crafts movement of early California.

A highlight at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel is the gingerbread replica of the hotel. Standing 7 feet tall and 12 feet wide, the structure is created from more than 600 pounds of gingerbread, 600 pounds of powdered sugar, 250 pounds of fondant and 1 pound of pixie dust ­– plus 25 hidden Mickeys. Nearby, pick up sweet treats such as Mickey Christmas cookies from the lobby’s holiday cart.

Santa Claus and Carolers: Santa will visit each Disneyland Resort hotel from Nov. 25 – Dec. 24, 2021, and hotel Guests are encouraged to share their wishes with St. Nick. Guests will also be delighted to hear the joyful sounds of handbell carolers at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Nov. 25, 2021 – Jan. 9, 2022, and holiday carolers strolling the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel Dec. 15 – 25, 2021.

Spa La La La La: At the new Tenaya Stone Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, Guests of any of the three Disneyland Resort Hotels may treat themselves to a holiday season spa treatment, November 26, 2021 – January 3, 2022. The Candy Cane Lane Foot Treatment uses a refreshing peppermint cocoa foot soak, scrub and a minty massage to soothe and invigorate feet and legs. The Underneath the Tree Signature Massage uses customized massage techniques combined with the scent of fir, California lemon, wild mint and a touch of eucalyptus for pure relaxation.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Some Big News from the Latest D23 Event and More Disney Travel News
 

Mickey's ToonTown is Closing

Mickey's Toontown at Disneyland Parks is going to be reimagined with new experiences and more play areas for young families, including grassy lawns. It closes in March 2022 and will reopen in early 2023 alongside Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway.

One of the new areas coming to Mickey’s Toontown will be CenTOONial Park, the first space Guests will see when they enter. This natural space will be anchored by two interactive play experiences. At the center of CenTOONial Park will be a fountain, designed for play, which will also become a center icon for Mickey’s Toontown. As its base, water tables will invite Guests to play with the water and have a sensory experience. At night, the fountain will be brought to life in a unique spectacle.

A nearby dreaming tree will be inspired by the tree a young Walt Disney would daydream under in his hometown. Sculpted tree roots will provide an opportunity for children to play, crawl and explore, and undulating topography will offer rolling hills and a place to sit and dream.

Here's an update on the new DVC tower at Disneyland Hotel themed after stories of being a Disney artist, from sketching styles of Walt Disney himself to rooms based on original drawings from classic Disney films like Sleeping Beauty. Plus a very kid-friendly pool area.

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays 

The 2021 festival will run from November 26 through Dec. 30, 2021. It celebrates holiday traditions from around the globe, with a variety of yuletide decorations, family-friendly activities, and the return of the beloved long-standing tradition of “Candlelight Processional.”

What are holidays without delicious food and drink? The 14 Holiday Kitchens are scattered throughout all 11 World Showcase pavilions and beyond offering returning fan-favorites and delicious classic holiday dishes and festive beverages.

The fun Holiday Cookie Stroll is back this year with a sweet cookie scavenger hunt. The Festival Passport lists the five official Holiday Cookie Stroll locations, and each stop will offer a delicious cookie for purchase and a stamp for your Festival Passport. Once Guests have collected all five stamps, they can bring their Festival Passport to the Holiday Sweets & Treats Holiday Kitchen to receive a 50th anniversary celebration cookie! Guests can complete their Holiday Cookie Stroll at their leisure – they can even bring back their stamped Festival Passport to EPCOT at any time during the festival to complete their stroll. 

In The American Adventure rotunda, EPCOT pastry chefs have recreated the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and The American Adventure building in miniature gingerbread versions.

Also at Epcot, a new Walt Disney statue in the World Celebration area is likely to become a hot spot for photos. Dreamer's Point near Spaceship Earth will basically be the Partners of this park.

More Fun PhotoPass Lenses!

WDW has launched even more Disney PhotoPass Lenses! These new Lenses, along with our current collection, are available through the My Disney Experience app with a purchase of Disney Genie+ service.

The Disney Wish will have two new stage shows: Sieze the Adventure will feature Captain Minnie and a new live action adaptation of The Little Mermaid with a new take on the story.

In related news, Disney Cruise Line has announced that guests 5 and older must be fully vaccinated to sail as of January 13, 2022 and Adventures by Disney January 12, 2022. We will see how this all plays out given Florida legislation.

Mirabel from ‘Encanto’ Joins Disney ¡Viva Navidad! During Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park

News From Destination D23

At Destination D23, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro revealed Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will open summer 2022 at EPCOT as part of the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary celebration. This new family-friendly coaster matches the “grandosity” and fun of the blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy” films in what will be one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the world. an intergalactic chase through time and space. And it features a reverse launch!

At Disneyland Resort, the next evolution of Downtown Disney District is being planned with work starting in January 2022. The multi-year project to reimagine Downtown Disney District will include an even broader collection of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences. More details are coming in 2022! 

Galactic Starcruiser March 2022, but there are soft launches earlier in February.

Live entertainment is coming back almost everywhere, including shows and Festival of Fantasy Parade in early 2022.

Also, “World of Color” and “Fantasmic!” are returning to the Disneyland Resort next year, along with the “Main Street Electrical Parade”.

MagicBands are Coming to Disneyland (finally)

This will mark the first time MagicBand+ will be available at Disneyland Resort. Some of the features of MagicBand+ will vary between Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort but they haven't shared details yet.  The “Hey, Disney!” voice assistant will work alongside Alexa on Amazon Echo devices and also will begin rolling out to Guest rooms across the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort.  

Disney Imagineers are working on bringing characters – of all sizes – to life in authentic ways at Disney Parks and right now they’re developing a full-body exoskeleton system they’ve nicknamed “Project EXO.” It’s still in early concept development and Josh and team shared a glimpse at what the future of Disney Parks may look like!

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at

Is it Really a Good Idea to Spend All Day in Disney Parks?

With so much to do on a Disney vacation, it's easy to get lost in the belief that spending all day in the parks is the right thing to do. But is it?

In Episode 99 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® we explore how much time you should dedicate to visiting Disney Parks and how much time you should leave to enjoy the other aspects of a Disney vacation.

Disney Park Burnout is Not Fun

If you spend all day in a Disney Park, there's a good chance you may face Disney Park burnout. That's no fun for anyone and it's really not necessary. We share our top tips for what you need to know to spend just the right amount of time in Disney Parks without going too far for anyone in your group.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Pond5

Is it Going Too Far to Celebrate Every New Disney Cupcake as if it Were a New Attraction?

Maybe things have gotten a little out of hand. Or have they? We debate how the impact of Disney food has had an affect on how we go about enjoying a Disney vacation. Has social media placed an unreasonable and unnecessary focus on the release of every Disney cupcake or fancy cocktail?

Disney Dining Should Be Fun, But Not a Point of Stress

Over the years, Disney dining and Disney snacks have taken on almost epic proportions far beyond perhaps what they really warrant. Maybe that's not a big deal, but maybe it becomes a big deal when it starts to impact your Disney vacations in ways you may not like.

Join us for Episode 98 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® as we explore the world of Disney food and the impacts that it has on the overall Disney vacation experience.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Pond5

Buckle Up and Come Along for the Ride!

Disney roller coasters may not be the fastest or steepest in the world, but there are still plenty of thrills, chills and good old fashion fun to be had. In Episode 97 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® we rank and review every single coaster at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Paris to see which is best at each resort and which one will claim the overall prize as best Disney roller coaster.

You'll Never Believe Our Top Picks!

Here are the Disney roller coasters we cover:

Disneyland Resort

• Goofy's Sky School
• Matterhorn Bobsleds
• Incredicoaster
• Space Mountain
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Walt Disney World Resort

• Expedition Everest
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• Rock'n'Roller Coaster
• Space Mountain
• Slinky Dog Dash

Disneyland Paris

• Big Thunder Mountain
• Hyperspace Mountain
• Indiana Jones Temple of Peril
• Crush's Coaster

We've ridden them all and share our thoughts on the top picks and bottom feeders. Plus we cover the kid-friendly coasters at each resort and the new Disney roller coasters that are coming soon.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Pond5

Who Will Benefit Most from Disney Genie?

Disney Genie is now live in Disney Parks and it has been drawing a lot of attention from Disney travelers. We take a close look at exactly how Disney Genie works covering all three parts of its offering. Is it better for one group of Disney travelers than another.

In Episode 96 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street we discuss exactly how Disney Genie may help or hinder the following groups of Disney travelers:

• New/first time Disney travelers
• Frequent Disney travelers
• Local Annual Passholders
• Distant Annual Passholders

Join us as we explore all three tiers of Disney Genie and whether or not it's a good thing.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Pond5

What is the Best Disney World Hotel Pool and Which Hotel Pools are Lacking?

Spending time at your Disney resort hotel pool is a must-do. Every Disney hotel at Walt Disney World has at least one pool, but the Deluxe Disney Resort Hotels has some of the best-themed pools you'll find.

In Episode 95 of The Disney Travel Podcast at 1923 Main Street® we go resort-by-resort and pool-by-pool to discuss and review all 29 hotel pools at Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts and Villas.

Hear Mike's picks and Amelia's picks for the ultimate Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts when it comes to pools. We also share which Disney Deluxe hotels we feel are sorely lacking in the area of pool time fun.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

If you are interested in helping to support the our show, we have set up some great rewards for our supporters on Patreon. So feel free to drop by for a visit. Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. From 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic originals.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Daddy Daughter Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Pond5