Tag Archives: vacation

Magic Kingdom, Memory Keeping

A New Era of Evening Magic: Inside Magic Kingdom’s Starlight Parade

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For the first time in nearly a decade, Magic Kingdom’s evening comes alive with a luminous celebration of dreams, magic, and Disney storytelling. Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away officially debuted on July 20, 2025, ushering in a new era of nighttime entertainment at Walt Disney World.

The nighttime parade has always been my favorite. I absolutely loved the Main Street Electrical Parade and even have a snippet of the music as a ringtone on my phone. On our first family trip I remember my youngest son who was 4 asking to go see when his father and brother had had enough and we hopped on the boat from Wilderness Lodge and went over just to see the parade, just the 2 of us.

Throwback to the Main Street Electrical Parade in 2010

🌌 A Parade That Feels Like a Dream

As twilight fades and stars peek out over Main Street, U.S.A., the streets light up with Starlight — a glowing procession inspired by Disney’s beloved parades of the past, like the Main Street Electrical Parade, but reimagined with modern lighting, original music, and stunning design. 

✨ What You’ll See Along the Route

Disney Starlight showcases a captivating mix of classic and contemporary Disney and Pixar stories, each float a storybook brought to life with vibrant illumination and artistic animation:

Enchanting Storyscapes — From the spirited Madrigal family of Encanto to the oceanic voyage with Moana, each float transforms treasured characters and scenes into luminous works of art. 

Fairytale Royalty & Heroes — Princes, princesses, and heroes like Elsa, Belle and the Beast, Rapunzel and Flynn, and Aladdin with Jasmine make grand, glowing appearances. 

Classic Disney Favorites — Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Daisy, Snow White, Dopey, and more bring joyful energy to the parade’s finale in sparkling new attire. 

Every float feels like a constellation of light, turning the parade route into a magical tapestry where old and new Disney tales shimmer beneath the night sky. 

🎶 Music & Atmosphere

Starlight doesn’t just dazzle the eyes — it captures the heart with an original musical theme that blends new compositions with nods to classic Disney melodies.

🕯️ Parade Flow

Route: The parade begins on Main Street, U.S.A. and travels toward Frontierland, a reversal from traditional daytime parades designed to improve crowd flow at night.  Showtimes: Initially presented twice nightly — typically around 9PM and 11PM — schedules vary throughout the year so be sure to check the My Disney Experience app before your visit. 

This parade marks a return of nighttime magic to Magic Kingdom, filling the evening hours with storytelling. Whether you’re seeking nostalgia or experiencing Disney storytelling in a whole new way, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away is designed to leave you with stars in your eyes — and a reminder that at Disney, dreams really do shine the brightest after dark.

Epcot, Memory Keeping, Attractions

Discovering Journey of Water — Inspired by Moana at EPCOT

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One of EPCOT’s newer experiences is Journey of Water — Inspired by Moana. It is a whimsical and interactive walk-through attraction in the park’s World Nature neighborhood that has quickly become a favorite for families, Disney fans, and anyone who loves immersive, sensory experiences. Officially opened on October 16, 2023, this lush water-filled trail blends playful fun with thoughtful storytelling about the natural world — all through the lens of Moana’s bond with water.

I’ll be honest, I almost skipped it because…well it’s just a walk. But of course, for research purposes I had to at least walk through. I was pleasantly surprised at what I discovered and could have spent much more time immersed in nature…and some lovely shade.

🌿 What It Is

Journey of Water is a self-guided exploration trail where guests of all ages can wander through a beautifully landscaped pathway punctuated by waterfalls, interactive fountains, misters, and splashing streams. Inspired by Moana’s friendship with the ocean, this attraction brings water to life in ways you can touch, play with, and even make music from.

💧 What You’ll Experience

As you follow the trail, you’ll encounter zones that bring the water cycle to life — from rain and streams to rivers and oceans — with opportunities to interact at every turn.

Rain Harps — Streams of water that play musical notes when you glide your fingers through them. 

Water Games — Step on sensors to set fountains dancing or raise your arms together to make a big splash. 

Curtain Waterfalls — Walk slowly through falling water to trigger hidden surprises — just like a scene straight from Moana. This was really cool!

The experience is playful and educational with informational signs explaining each stage of the water cycle.

A towering, 15-foot representation of Te Fiti stands as a serene centerpiece and perfect photo backdrop.

There is also a restroom midway through.

There are dry paths for those who don’t want to get wet, but most features allow you control on that.

And just outside the attraction is a Moana meet and greet, a must if you are a fan!

Please, do not skip this attraction at EPCOT, it’s the perfect cool and calm down spot and well worth a stroll through.

Looking for more Moana? Why not stay at the Island Towers at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort? Click to learn all about this spectacular resort.

Disney Resorts, Memory Keeping

 A New Crown Jewel at Disney’s Polynesian Resort: Island Tower

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I had the pleasure of visiting the Polynesian Resort recently and took a stroll over to the new tower that was recently completed. The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is a striking 10-story tower. It is beautiful.

We got a peak into the rooms and had a lovely lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon. You can see Cinderella Castle in the distance from your perch on the breezy terrace.

Inspired by the spirit of the South Pacific, the Island Tower embodies the vibrant cultures and natural beauty of Polynesia. From the moment you step into the lobby, you are greeted by art installations and design details created in collaboration with Polynesian artists — these are wildlife-inspired ceiling panels, sculptures made from recycled fishing nets, and chandeliers of living moss — that reflect themes of nature, and conservation.

The spaces blend Disney storytelling with cultural richness. Nods to Moana and design elements that echo the ocean, wind, earth, and fire.

🏡 Accommodations Meant for Adventure

The Island Tower introduces 268 new Disney Vacation Club (DVC) accommodations — from cozy duo studios perfect for couples to spacious one- and two-bedroom villas that sleep families up to nine. For the first time in this resort’s history, two-bedroom penthouse villas are available, offering ultra-luxurious stays with expansive living space and elevated views over the lagoon or golf courses.

🌴 New Spaces to Play, Dine & Unwind

One of the highlights of Island Tower is its Cove Pool, a zero-entry tropical oasis ideal for cooling off, while Moana’s Voyage splash area brings playful water fun to younger guests with life-size figures and themed water features.

Food and drink get their own island vibes at Wailulu Bar & Grill, a casual yet refined dining spot with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon. Inspired by Polynesian ingredients and relaxation by the water, its menu and ambiance extend the immersive theme from morning coffee to dinner and tropical cocktails. I cannot say enough about this dining venue. Even in extreme heat, the fans and lovely breeze made it very comfortable to eat outside, it wasn’t even a thought.

In short, the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort isn’t just additional rooms — it’s a vibrant new destination within a destination.

Disney Food, Epcot, Memory Keeping

Plan Your Visit to EPCOT’s Fall Food & Wine Festival

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This is a must-attend festival which happens late summer into the Fall.

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Each country in World Showcase, along with many “pop-up” countries scattered around the lagoon, features scrumptious bites! There is nothing better than wandering around the WORLD, tasting the flavors of all the different countries.

This past Fall, I had the pleasure of spending several days doing just that. Wandering around World Showcase and sampling many different sweet and savory treats from around the world.

The Sweet Potato Casserole fries from the Fry Basket were a sweet dessert. Yum! The Pumpkin Ravioli were another favorite.

Churro Sundae
Grand Marnier Orange Slush

Honestly, I could just wander Food & Wine for days on end. The lines moved quickly, even if they were long, and we always managed to find a table or trash can to perch on to eat.

Have you been to EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival? If not, let’s get you there. The Fall is the perfect time to visit. The weather is tolerable and the crowds are better than Spring and Summer.

I’ve got the perfect base for a great Food & Wine Festival-focused trip! Just a few steps away on the Boardwalk, at the lovely, recently renovated Boardwalk Inn.

Disney Food, Memory Keeping

Delicious Breakfast Delights at Trattoria al Forno

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While I’ve had dinner at Trattoria al Forno several times, this was my first breakfast experience. It did not disappoint.

Staying at the Boardwalk Inn made booking a last-minute breakfast here very easy. We were able to snag the reservation the night before and get a nice breakfast in our tummies before heading over to Epcot for more picture taking and Food & Wine exploring. Not to mention a ride on Guardians of the Galaxy!!

You’ll find all the delicious breakfast options from omelets and frittatas to pancakes and even a breakfast pizza.

I chose a Peach Bellini and the Caprese Omelet. Both were delicious and the service was excellent. The restaurant was busy, but we didn’t feel rushed.

A lovely start to the day. Trattoria al Forno never disappoints.

Disney Resorts, Memory Keeping

Top Dining Options on EPCOT’s Boardwalk You Can’t Miss

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Let’s take a walk on the Boardwalk. This area at EPCOT is, and always has been, one of my favorite places to wander.

On a recent trip, I stayed at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort and was able to spend a good amount of time exploring the Boardwalk.

The Boardwalk comes alive at night with a barbershop quartet and magicians, jugglers, and a very lively ice cream shop with incdredibly delish creamy delights.

One of the main complaints I hear about The Boardwalk Inn is the lack of easy dining options. Which is strange, because honestly, there are tons of dining options, and it’s not a long walk to 4 other resorts with dining options and all the countries of World Showcase.

The Inn itself has a wonderful little grab-and-go coffee shop off the lobby. They even had a very yummy specialty coffee drink à la Starbucks style. Breakfast goodies like croissants, muffins, and yogurt.

Iced Frappe on the back porch overlooking boardwalk

One of my favorite restaurants on the boardwalk has always been Trattoria Al Forno, and it’s a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Full review here. Right next door is AbracadaBar with curious concoctions with names like Hoodunit’s Punch and The Conjurita!

Quick service options include Pizza by the slice, Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, Boardwalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas, and Boardwalk Ice Cream!

The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant by Gwendolyn Rogers offers a bakery as well. And along with Trattoria Al Forno, Flying Fish is another table service option.

I really enjoyed my time strolling the boardwalk. The margarita was delicious, the quartet sang Barbara Ann by the Beach Boys and then looked for a Barbara and found me. I was only the second Barbara they had ever actually had in the crowd. The Thundering Surf Peanut Butter and Chocolate Sundae was divine! Definately make time for an evening on the Boardwalk next time you are at Disney World. Better yet, stay right there!

Memory Keeping

Top 3 Disney World Splurges

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After Hours Parties

Of course, there are the ever-popular Halloween and Christmas parties as well.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Join some of your favorite Disney Characters for an evening of spirited fun at this spooktacular celebration.

Get your favorite costume ready and make your plans to live it up—collecting candies, sweets, and delightful treats—all while Magic Kingdom park thrills and chills you with electrifying entertainment and eerily fun activities.

Like the Halloween party, the party starts at 7pm, but your special ticket allows you to enter the park at 4pm to get a head start on activities.

  • Set your sights on a group of sinister sisters as they bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park at the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular.
  • Don’t miss Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular*—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters.
  • Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

When Mickey celebrates the season, Magic Kingdom park lights up with excitement for Guests of all ages. Cinderella Castle shimmers. Joyful music fills the air. Disney Characters don their most festive attire. Favorite attractions take on a holiday theme. And enchanting surprises lie around almost every turn!

  • Christmas fun awaits as Mickey invites his pals over for an unforgettable party.
  • Queen Elsa transforms Cinderella Castle.
  • Holiday parade brimming with joy and magic!
  • Look to the sky as your host—Minnie Mouse—presents a dazzling fireworks show full of festive cheer.
  • Bring home a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party memory with a piece of official merchandise from shops across the park.

Wild Africa Trek

Be awestruck viewing wild animals in their natural habitat on the 3-hour Wild Africa Trek. Discover animals of nearly every variety living in the Safi River Valley—an amazing environment that resembles their home in Africa.

Walk along a grassland path, cross a rope bridge and ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna—with a chance to view African creatures including towering giraffes, powerful rhinos, hippos, and crocodiles.

Along your journey, your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the majestic animals you’re viewing as well as the general operation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and details about the park’s dedication to animal conservation.

And as if your safari weren’t enough, you’ll receive complimentary photo services as well. Enjoy the animals of the Harambe Reserve while a trained photographer captures all the action and excitement throughout your adventure. At the end of your expedition, you’ll receive a photo code that you can use to access and download images taken during your Wild Africa Trek experience. Two gourmet snack breaks are also included.

Epcot, Memory Keeping

Say Hello: Character Meet and Greets at Epcot

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Epcot, the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, is a unique theme park located in Walt Disney World Resort, Florida. The park is known for its educational and entertaining attractions, and it offers guests the chance to meet and interact with a variety of characters.

Here are some of the characters you can meet at Epcot:

Disney Princesses – Epcot is the perfect place to meet your favorite Disney Princesses. You can interact with Belle, Jasmine, Mulan, Snow White, and other princesses in the World Showcase. Don’t forget to bring your autograph book! You’ll find Belle in France, Snow White in Germany, Jasmine in Morocco, Mulan in China and so on…

International Characters – Epcot’s World Showcase is home to characters from around the world. You can meet Mary Poppins and Alice in Wonderland in the United Kingdom Pavilion. You can also meet cultural representatives from various countries who share their customs, traditions, and stories.

Vanellope – Pose for a pic with the fastest racer this side of the internet inside Imageworks in World Celebrations.

Anna & Elsa – Chill out with royal sisters Elsa & Anna from Frozen at their charming summer cabin, Royal Sommerhus in the Norway Pavillion.

Joy – Meet Joy from the Disney and Pixar film Inside Out at her workplace—inside the head of Riley, an 11-year-old girl. You will find Joy at Imageworks

Meeting characters at Epcot is a magical experience that guests of all ages can enjoy. Don’t forget to bring your camera and autograph book, and be prepared to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Hollywood Studios, Memory Keeping

Say Hello: Character Meet and Greets at Hollywood Studios

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f you’re a fan of movies, television shows, and popular culture, you’ll definitely want to visit Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in Florida. This theme park is dedicated to the magic of Hollywood and features attractions, shows, and experiences that allow you to step into some of your favorite films and TV shows. But one of the highlights of Hollywood Studios is the chance to meet and interact with some of the most beloved characters from the world of entertainment. Here are some of the characters you can meet at Hollywood Studios.

Mickey Mouse and Friends: No trip to a Disney theme park is complete without meeting the mouse that started it all. You can meet Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and other classic characters at the park, either at scheduled meet-and-greets or in impromptu encounters around the park.

Star Wars Characters: If you’re a fan of the Star Wars franchise, you’ll be thrilled to meet some of the iconic characters from the movies. You can pose for a photo with Chewbacca, meet BB-8, or even come face-to-face with the intimidating Darth Vader or Kylo Ren.

Toy Story Characters: Round up the gang and get those batteries charged! Shake the snakes out of your boots and say howdy to Sheriff Woody. Yodel a hello to Jessie the Cowgirl. Remember to greet Buzz Lightyear with your best Space Ranger salute—he’s always looking for a few good toys. Throughout the day, be on the lookout for the Green Army Drum Corps!

Disney Junior Characters: If you’re traveling with little ones, they’ll love the chance to meet some of their favorite characters from Disney Junior shows. You can meet Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, and Fancy Nancy, among others at Animation Courtyard.

These are just a few of the characters you can meet at Hollywood Studios. Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney movies, Star Wars, Marvel, or more, there’s sure to be a character that will make your visit to the park unforgettable. Be sure to check the schedule and plan your day to make sure you don’t miss any of these exciting character encounters!

Animal Kingdom, Memory Keeping

Say Hello: Character Meet and Greets at Animal Kingdom

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If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, you’re in for a treat. Not only is the park home to a variety of exotic animals and breathtaking rides, but you’ll also have the chance to meet some of your favorite Disney characters in a setting that’s truly unique.

Here are some of the characters you can meet at Animal Kingdom:

Mickey & Minnie: Join the globetrotting couple at the Adventurers Outpost as they prepare themselves for their next grand expedition. Peruse exotic mementos they’ve collected on their trips around the world before posing for a postcard-perfect picture with the pair. 

Pocahontas – This beloved Disney princess can be found near the Tree of Life, where she’ll be happy to pose for photos and sign autographs.

Donald Duck – This feathered friend is a favorite of many visitors to Animal Kingdom. You can find him near DinoLand U.S.A., where he’ll be happy to take photos and sign autographs.

Kevin: Meet Kevin at the Character Landing by Flame Tree Barbeque

Dug and Russell – Fans of the movie “Up” won’t want to miss the chance to meet these two lovable characters. You can find them near the park’s entrance, and they’re always happy to make new friends.

Meeting these characters is a great way to add some extra magic to your visit to Animal Kingdom. Make sure to bring your camera and autograph book, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories.