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as seen in Magically Speaking newsletter
June 29, 2009
June 15, 2009
June 1, 2009
May 18, 2009
May 4, 2009
April 20, 2009
June 29, 2009
"Wishes" Dessert Party
From now through August 28, Magic Kingdom guests can enjoy a dessert buffet at the Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station while viewing the "Wishes" Nighttime Spectacular fireworks show. The cost is $17.99 per adult and $9.99 per child (ages 3–9). Theme park admission is required. Dessert will be under the covered area, and therefore offered rain or shine (even if "Wishes" is cancelled for weather). Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE. This event currently does not accept the Disney Dining Plan. Just remember, in order to see "Wishes" from this area, you either need to be at the edge of the Terrace, or move outside of the covered area.
Online Dining Reservation System Up and Running
The long-awaited, much-anticipated online dining reservation system has finally arrived. Guests can now make their Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs) up to 90 days in advance on the Walt Disney World Website at http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/restaurants/. Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel can make all ADRs for their trip 90 days ahead of their check-in date for up to 10 days of their vacation. The "Fantasmic!" Dinner Package cannot be booked online at this time.
Fourth of July Celebrations Planned 
Guests celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World Resort will have a choice of fireworks shows as Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios present special pyrotechnics and Epcot adds a patriotic "tag" to its famous "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" spectacular. Here's what's in store:
Magic Kingdom — "Celebrate America Fireworks" will fill the sky at 9 p.m. July 4 (guests who'd like to begin the celebratory weekend a day early can enjoy the special fireworks on July 3 at 9 p.m.). After the fireworks, guests can enjoy a performance of Disney's "SpectroMagic" parade of lights, music and magic at 10:30 p.m. on July 3–4. Park hours are 9 a.m.–11 p.m. on July 3–4.
Disney's Hollywood Studios — Special fireworks will be presented at 10 p.m. on July 4, providing guests with a bonus nighttime entertainment extravaganza to complement "Fantasmic!" (which will be at 9 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.). Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.–10 p.m.
Epcot — "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," which features dazzling special effects, colorful lasers, brilliant fireworks, and fiery torches all choreographed to a musical score, becomes even more dynamic on July 4 as the normal show is supplemented with a patriotic finale. The performance begins at 10 p.m. Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.–10 p.m.
Disney's Animal Kingdom — No fireworks here (we wouldn't want to disturb the animals' rest). Guests can enjoy all the regular attractions and shows on July 4 from 9 a.m.–7 p.m.
In addition, the Hall of Presidents will reopen at the Magic Kingdom on July 4, featuring an Audio-Animatronic figure of President Barack Obama. The day before, on July 3, there will be a ceremony on Main Street, during which 1,000 immigrants will be sworn-in as American citizens. The welcoming address for the ceremony will be presented by Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton, and actor Andy Garcia will be presenting the keynote address.
Swan and Dolphin Offer Dining Packages
The Swan and Dolphin are now offering a dining package good at the resorts' restaurants. The package, available for a minimum two-night stay and minimum of two adults, costs an additional $89 per day for adults and includes breakfast at Garden Grove or Fresh Mediterranean Market and dinner at bluezoo, Shula's Steakhouse, or Il Mulino New York Trattoria. Children (12 and under) receive complimentary dinner and breakfast with a paying adult. Dining certificates are issued for prix fixe menus, tax, and gratuities, and are available through the end of the year.
Walt Disney World Closures and Rehabs
Magic Kingdom
- Hall of Presidents is closed through July 3.
- Tomorrowland Transit Authority is closed through August 24.
- Space Mountain is closed through November 21.
- Liberty Square Riverboat will be closed September 13 through 19.
Epcot
- There are no rehabs currently scheduled.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- "Sounds Dangerous" is currently operating on a seasonal schedule.
Animal Kingdom
- There are no rehabs currently scheduled.
Outside the Theme Parks
- Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort will open August 4.
- Spoodles on the Boardwalk will be undergoing renovations until its conversion to Cat Cora's new restaurant, Kouzzina, this fall.
Upcoming Events at Walt Disney World
- The Pirates League opens in the Magic Kingdom June 29.
- Disney's Night of Joy, September 11 and 12.
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, September 25 through November 8.
- Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, September 4, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29; October 1, 2, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31; November 1.
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, November 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29; December 1, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18.
June 15, 2009
Passholder Previews of Hall of Presidents
The Hall of Presidents is set to reopen over the Fourth of July weekend. Passholders will have an opportunity to preview the newly updated attraction on June 28 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. No registration is necessary, just bring your pass and photo ID directly to the attraction entrance.
Treehouse Villas Open
The Treehouse Villas at Saratoga Springs opened on June 1. The new layout and rooms are beautiful. Have you stayed in the new Treehouse Villas? If so, drop us a line at info@magically-speaking.com.
Mobile Room-Ready Notification Now Available
If you arrive at your resort prior to your room being ready, you no longer have to worry about calling to get your room number. Disney has started using a new system that will allow them to provide you with your room number. At check-in if you provide a cell phone number, you will be contacted via call or text message. If you choose not to provide a contact number, you can still call or check with the front desk later in the day.
Southwest Testing Remote Check-in
Currently guests flying Southwest and staying at Disney's Pop Century resort can check-in and check their bags at the resort. Southwest was the only major airline not participating in the remote baggage check program due to technical issues. If the pilot program confirms that the technical issues have been solved, watch for Southwest to expand this service to all Disney resorts.
June 1, 2009
Great Piggy Bank Adventure Now Open at Epcot
The Great Piggy Bank Adventure, sponsored by T. Rowe Price, opened on Tuesday, May 19 at Epcot's Innoventions West. It is an interactive exhibit designed to teach children ages 8–13 basic financial lessons.
The Return of the Jedi to Disney's Hollywood Studios
The 2009 Star Wars Weekends officially began Friday, May 22. The event will continue every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through June 14 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. For more information and to see the celebrity lineup, visit http://www.themouseforless.com/tripplanning/wdwparks/annual/starwars.shtml.
Water Park Ticket Prices Rising with the Tides
One-day ticket prices for Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon have increased by $5, bringing the price for an adult ticket to $45 and the price for a child ticket (ages 3–9) to $39.
Seasonal Meal Prices Are Now in Effect
From now through July 12, 2009, seasonal meal prices are in effect for 1900 Park Fare, Akershus, Biergarten, Boma, Cape May Café, Chef Mickey's, Cinderella's Royal Table, Crystal Palace, Garden Grill, Hollywood and Vine, Liberty Tree Tavern, 'Ohana, Trails End, and Tusker House. Adult meal prices have increased by $4, and children's meal prices (ages 3–9) have increased by $2.
 "I'm Going to Disney World!"
After his recent win on American Idol, Kris Allen announced that he was going to Disney World. On May 29, he made good on his promise. Allen visited Disney's Hollywood Studios (he really did have something to celebrate), to the delight of throngs of fans. The Idol winner participated in a parade through the park and performed for fans outside of the American Idol Experience attraction.
Plans Shaping Up for 14th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Epcot's World Showcase becomes the place for a global tasting experience worthy of every palate September 25–November 8 at the 14th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. This year's theme will be "Cities in Wonderland." The festival will spotlight tastes from cities on six continents, including Bologna, Italy; Bangkok, Thailand; Wellington, New Zealand; Santiago, Chile; Marrakesh, Morocco; Shanghai, China; and, from the United States, New Orleans. Puglia, Italy, returns as a sponsor this year, presenting culinary demonstrations with regional chefs and showcasing "Adventures of Pasta and Olive Oils."
Runners Have Chance for Exclusive New Disney Medal
Disney Sports is creating a unique bonus medal for runners who complete the Fall Race Challenge, by competing in two of the three fall events at Walt Disney World Resort. Runners that record an official time for Disney's Race for the Taste 10K and either the Expedition Everest Challenge or The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 13K will receive the bonus medal in addition to individual race medals — a total of three medals for running two races. Registration for all three fall events is now open.
The Disney Endurance Series fall lineup includes:
~Expedition Everest Challenge on September 26, 2009
~Disney's Race for the Taste on 10K October 11, 2009
~The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror on 13K (October 24, 2009
A Star-spangled Celebration
July 4th is a grand celebration of all things America. What better patriotic place to be than Walt Disney World Resort as freedom rings from corner to corner of the Vacation Kingdom? "Disney's Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky" will dazzle Magic Kingdom guests at 9:00 p.m. on the Fourth of July. That same park will feature a performance of the "SpectroMagic" nighttime parade, at 10:30 p.m. In the meantime, Disney's Hollywood Studios guests are treated to a 9:00 p.m. performance of "Fantasmic!" while at Epcot, a holiday-inspired "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" bursts above World Showcase Lagoon at 10:00 p.m.
New Closing Ceremony at Animal Kingdom
Disney's Animal Kingdom has added a new closing ceremony, called "Adventurers' Celebration Gathering" to its entertainment schedule. Each evening, as guests depart, Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy will entertain atop a safari vehicle while Cast Members sing and dance.
Grand Gathering Fireworks Cruise to Open for All Guests
Starting on July 13, 2009, all guests will be able to enjoy the Pirate & Pals Firework Voyage (formerly called the Magical Fireworks Voyage), which was previously only available through Grand Gatherings. The cruise includes a viewing of the Electrical Water Pageant, followed by "
Wishes." The cost is $53.99 per adult and $30.99 per child (ages 3–9). For reservations, call 407-WDW-PLAY.
Grand Floridian Now Hosting Its Own Campfire and a Movie
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is now hosting a campfire sing-along and a Disney movie on its beach on select evenings. Guests can purchase s'mores kits and marshmallows or bring their own to roast around a Mickey-shaped campfire.
New Stitch Experience
Stitch's SuperSonic Celebration is a musical stage show that celebrates Galaxy Day in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom. Get ready to party with a high-energy dance troupe and a very special live video appearance from Stitch. Stitch's SuperSonic Celebration is scheduled to debut May 6.
The Pirates League Sets Sail in Magic Kingdom June 29
Calling all scoundrels, rogues and ne'er-do-wells — Captain Jack and the crew of the Black Pearl want YOU. Starting in late June, the Pearl drops anchor in Adventureland for "The Pirates League," recruiting and training park guests of all ages in the scurrilous ways of buccaneers. Each guest checking in at the plunder-filled recruitment office gets an official pirate name. Next step is the Muster Station where — after applications of beards and eye patches, scarves and scars, earrings and gold teeth — the new recruits leave their old identities behind. Past a hidden portal and into the treasure cache, the new shipmates speak the pirate oath and have their official "pirate portrait" taken before being turned loose on an unsuspecting Adventureland — and no doubt feeling right at home at the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. Boys, girls, and grownups ready for the pirate life start the process by calling 407-WDW-CREW beginning May 11. Packages start at $49.95 plus tax.
Hall of Presidents to Reopen in July
A July reopening is planned for the Hall of Presidents, an iconic attraction in Magic Kingdom. An audio-animatronic version of President Barack Obama will join representations of the previous 43 presidents of the United States as part of an attraction that has been celebrating American history since Walt Disney World Resort opened in 1971.
The Star-spangled Fun Doesn't Stop There…
July 4th is a grand celebration of all things America. What better patriotic place to be than Walt Disney World Resort as freedom rings from corner to corner of the Vacation Kingdom? "Disney's Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky" will dazzle Magic Kingdom guests at 9 p.m. on the Fourth of July. That same park will feature a performance of the "SpectroMagic" nighttime parade, at 10:30 p.m. In the meantime, Disney's Hollywood Studios guests are treated to a 9:00 p.m. performance of "Fantasmic!" while at Epcot, a holiday-inspired "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" bursts above World Showcase Lagoon at 10 p.m.
Picnic in the Park
Disney's Animal Kingdom has a new dining option available, a packaged picnic. Guests can pre-order picnics in front of Animal Kingdom's guest-relations office or at the Tusker House Restaurant and then pick them up at a set time at the Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery next to Tusker House. They can then head for one of 14 designated picnic spots around the park. The picnics feature either sandwiches or rotisserie chicken or ham, one or more sides, desserts, and bottles of water. Each comes in a reusable bag with plates, utensils, and a map marked with the picnic locations. Prices start at $24.99 plus tax for a sandwich meal for three and range as high as $56.99 plus tax for a rotisserie meal for six.
Disney World Remains Storm Ready
The National Weather Service has renewed Walt Disney World's status in its StormReady Community program though 2012. The designation recognizes Disney's emergency management preparations. The company has a program for continually reviewing and improving communication and safety procedures that would be used during severe weather.
New Restaurant
Paradiso 37 will open in early May at Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney. The restaurant and bar will feature cuisine from North, South, and Central America. The menu will represent the 37 countries of the Americas, plus an international wine bar, 37 varieties of tequila, and 10 signature frozen margaritas. The concept was developed by an Orlando-based restaurant group, E-Brands, which currently owns and operates restaurants such as Timpano Chophouse, Samba Room, Taqueria Canonita, Aquaknox, and David Burke across the United States. The restaurant will feature entertainment nightly and will be open daily from 11 a.m.
It's a Celebration!
Downtown Disney recently introduced "Celebrate Tonight!," a high-energy street party that focuses on what guests are celebrating. DJs are the party hosts and encourage guests to join stilt walkers and the party crew for dances and sing-alongs to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, or whatever the guests want to celebrate—all while spinning the latest and greatest party music. "Celebrate Tonight!" is located in the West End Plaza of Pleasure Island and is scheduled to run 5–11 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 6 p.m.–midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Up, Up, and Away!
Characters in Flight takes you for a flight in a giant tethered balloon 400 feet above Downtown Disney! Ascend to the sky for approximately six minutes and experience a breathtaking, 360-degree view of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
This whimsical balloon—the Aéro30—was built by Aérophile S.A., a company with headquarters in Paris, France. It's the world's largest tethered gas balloon. The balloon itself is attached to a gondola that is 19 feet in diameter and holds up to 30 guests at a time. Guests board from a specially designed platform and then, once in the air, revel in a spectacular view of vistas up to 10 miles away.
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