Shannon Devine | Devine Fairytale

What are Hidden Mickeys at Disney World?

Have you ever heard about the Hidden Mickeys inside of the Disney parks? Have you wondered what a Hidden Mickey is? Hidden Mickeys are Mickey Mouse shaped designs (a circle for the head with two smaller circles for ears) that have been intentionally or accidentally left for guests to find throughout the Disney theme parks.

What is a Hidden Mickey?

Hidden Mickeys are small images or representations of Mickey Mouse that are subtly hidden throughout Disney World attractions, resorts, and parks for guests to discover as a fun scavenger hunt. They can be found in various forms such as in paintings, sculptures, and even in the shape of objects. Many are large and obvious but there are some that are small and more difficult to spot.

Hidden Mickeys are not just inside of the Disney parks though, you can also find them in Disney movies, on the Disney cruise ships, and even at the resorts or in seasonal decorations. Some Hidden Mickeys are left intentionally by the Imagineers for others to find, and others just happen coincidentally. There are Hidden Mickeys at both Disneyland and at Walt Disney World.

Hidden Mickeys are just another way to add to the fun of the Disney experience. There are over 1,000 hidden throughout the Most Magical Place on Earth! The number of Hidden Mickeys in any of the parks, restaurants, resorts, and attractions is always changing. This is because some of the Hidden Mickeys are part of the seasonal decorations at special times of the year. Here are some fun facts about Hidden Mickeys that you might not know about.

Hidden Mickeys Carpet Beach Club Resort Disney World

How did Hidden Mickeys start?

The concept of Hidden Mickeys started as a fun game among Disney Imagineers to hide Mickey Mouse silhouettes in various locations throughout Disney parks and attractions. It later became a popular phenomenon among Disney fans and visitors who enjoy finding these subtle nods to the iconic character.

Hidden Mickeys first began with the construction of the Epcot theme park. Mickey Mouse was the prominent theme of the Magic Kingdom, but there was no plan when construction began to have characters as a part of Epcot, so the Imagineers took it upon themselves to leave hidden Mickeys throughout the park. When expansion continued in the Magic Kingdom and other parks were built, the tradition of hidden Mickeys continued.

Hidden Mickeys Carpet Yacht Club Resort Disney World

What are Hidden Mickey Pins?

Hidden Mickey pins (formerly known as Cast Lanyard Pins) are pins that cast members can exchange with guests. The back stamp is silver and indicates that the pin is a Hidden Mickey Pin, and how many pins are in that particular collection i.e.. one of five.

The front of the pin will have a small Mickey hidden in the artwork. Note that Hidden Mickey Pins are not considered limited edition pins, and besides exchanging them you can find them to purchase as part of the Hidden Mickey Mystery Pouches in the Disney gift shops.

What are some of the most popular Hidden Mickeys at Disney World?

Here are some spots to look for some of the most popular Hidden Mickeys at Disney World. No specific details, so you’ll have to hunt on your own but that’s part of the fun!

Haunted Mansion – Magic Kingdom
Soarin’ – Epcot
Living with the Land – Epcot
Morocco – Epcot
Gran Fiesta Tour in Mexico – Epcot
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway – Hollywood Studios
Toy Story Midway Mania – Hollywood Studios

Hidden Mickeys are so popular that there is even a book written all about them by Steven M. Barrett. The book is called Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide and there is a version for both Disneyland and Disney World, the books are paperback so you can take them with you to the parks and see how many hidden Mickeys you can find.

The next time you find yourself at a Disney park or resort make sure to keep your eyes peeled for Hidden Mickeys! If you are having trouble locating a specific Hidden Mickey be sure to ask a cast member, they are happy to help if they know where it is. Where is your favorite place to search for Hidden Mickeys?

Categories: Lifestyle

Disney Store eGift Card Giveaway

Disney lovers, this is for you! Who doesn’t want some extra spending money before your next trip to Disney? Entering to win is simple, just follow the directions below. Good luck!

Enter for your chance to win a $200 eGift Card to The Disney Store (or Amazon if you prefer)! This giveaway is open to the United States and Canada, only where permitted, age 18 and older. This giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on 3.31.23. See below for terms and conditions.

Entry -Form

This giveaway is hosted by Chatty Patty’s Place and The Review Wire.

All entries will be verified—only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. Any person who has won a prize (or whose household has won a prize) in any promotion sponsored by the Sponsor in the past thirty (30) days before this contest start date is not eligible to win a prize in this contest. Entrants who have created social accounts purely to enter Competitions or Sweepstakes will not be eligible to win. All social accounts used must be public.

The winner will be chosen randomly and contacted via email. A reply to the winning email is required within 48 hours before a new winner is chosen. Void where prohibited by law. One person entering per household, please.

If you are looking for more tips and information to start planning a Disney trip, check out some of my latest blog posts!

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

What to Expect: Magic Kingdom Dessert Party

Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? For those Disney fans that want to make their Disney trip even more magical, you can’t go wrong with a a special experience at the Magic Kingdom Dessert Party! Enjoy decadent desserts, a stellar view of the fireworks show, and plenty of magic to make your trip unforgettable.

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace

Getting Ready for the Magic: An Overview of the Magic Kingdom Dessert Party and How to Get Tickets

To purchase tickets for the dessert party, you’ll need to plan ahead. The tickets typically sell out pretty quickly and are available to purchase 60 days in advance on Disney’s website. While logged in to your My Disney Experience account, you can search for the dessert party listed under the Enchanting Extras Collection. Tickets for adults range from $99 – $114 for adults and $59 – $69 for children ages 3 to 9 years old. The price depends on which party option you choose.

You will pay in full at the time of booking. Make sure that if you need to cancel, you do so at least five days in advance to avoid losing what you paid. If you do cancel far enough in advance, you will get a full refund. The full price will be forfeited if canceling within five days or you do not show for the reservation.

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party Reserved Table

The dessert party tickets are an additional purchase and do not include your theme park admission. You will also need to purchase a theme park ticket for that day. A theme park reservation for Magic Kingdom is also needed or you will need to have a ticket or pass that allows you to park hop after 2:00 pm and you have already scanned into the park your park reservation was made for.

Currently, there are three different party options for Disney’s Enchantment as part of Magic Kingdom’s 50th Celebration. Happily Ever After will return on April 3, 2023 and the dessert party options could change. There is a Pre-Party (eat and drink before the fireworks), Treats & Seats (sit and eat in Tomorrowland Terrace during the fireworks), and an After-Party (fireworks first and then enjoy the desserts).

You will check in at Tomorrowland Terrace. To find Tomorrowland Terrace, you’ll walk down Main Street and when you reach the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, take a right. Walk past the Plaza and you’ll see the entrance to Tomorrowland Terrace. You are able to check in 90 minutes before fireworks for the Pre-Party or 60 minutes before for Treats and Seats and the After-Party. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for the fireworks time as it is subject to change.

Unbelievable Desserts: A Glimpse of the Delicious Treats Awaiting You

With your dessert party ticket, you can enjoy unlimited snacks, desserts and beverages during your party time. Alcohol is also included for guests 21 and older.

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party Dessert Plate

Here are some of the delicious treats and beverages included, though they are not guaranteed and are subject to change:

Chilling Chamber Cake Pops
Chocolate Silk Pie
Tres Leche Cupcakes
Chocolate-covered Strawberries
Oreo Cheesecake Mousse
Devil’s Chocolate Pudding
Firehouse Doughnuts
Assorted Fruit, Cheese, and Crackers

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party Chamber Pops

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party Firehouse Doughnuts

Water
Milk
Unsweetened Tea
Lemonade
Strawberry Lemonade
POG Juice
Hot Coffee
Non-alcoholic Sparkling Cider
Several Beer & Wine Options

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party Sparkling Cider

Spectacular Sight: An Amazing View of the Nighttime Fireworks Spectacular

When you check in, you will receive a special wristband. This will give you access to the private fireworks viewing area for the Pre-Party and After-Party. This area is directly across from Tomorrowland Terrace in a gated area of the hub grass. Looking at the castle, the area is to the right. Prior to the fireworks starting, you can sit to save your spot but once showtime gets closer, they will have everyone stand and move forward to make room for everyone.

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party view of fireworks at Cinderella Castle

Is the Magic Kingdom Dessert Party Worth It?

The dessert parties are a fun splurge for a special occasion. Perfect for celebrating and a stress-free way to view the nighttime show. If you find a spot early enough, you can still get a good view of the fireworks show without the reserved viewing area.

Dessert Party Tips

I definitely recommend checking in for your dessert party as early as possible. That way you will have plenty of time to enjoy the desserts and you won’t be rushed. You want to make sure you get most out of your dessert party ticket.

I would plan on eating a quick service meal the night of your party, or a later lunch, and not spending time at a table service location. You’ll lose a lot of park time that way and likely be too full to enjoy the treats at the party.

I prefer the Pre-Party personally. Then when many guests are leaving after the fireworks, you still have time to try to get on some rides with lower wait times at the end of the night. The Pre-Party and After-Party guests will have to stand for the fireworks, but even though you are able to sit with Treats & Seats tickets, it is at a bit more of an angle and not what I would consider the best view of the castle if that is important to you.

We have personally attended a dessert party during Happily Ever After while we were down at Disney to plan our wedding and the Disney Enchantment Pre-Party.

All in all, the Magic Kingdom Dessert Party is an unforgettable experience that Disney fans are sure to love. Enjoy delicious desserts, an incredible view of the fireworks, and an extra spark of magic, all of which combine to make your Disney trip even more special.

Categories: Home, Lifestyle

Closet Organizing Basics to Reclaim Your Space

Do you dread opening your closet because of how disorganized it is? Reclaim your closet and say goodbye to clutter with these closet organizing basics! With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can transform your closet into a calm and inviting space where you can easily find what you need.

Over time, I have made my closet one of my favorite spaces in our home. I have worked to find the best organization items, pared down my wardrobe and accessories, and found ways to highlight items that make me happy. There are many closet organizing basics and tools that you can use to organize your own closet, no matter the size. Here are my top ten tips to organize your own closet.

Closet Organizing Basics black hangers on white sheets

10 Tips to Help You Organize Your Closet

1. Change out items seasonally and pare down: Each season, I go through my clothing items and clean out anything that I didn’t wear, don’t love, or is no longer in great condition. You can donate these items, give them to friends who might appreciate them, sell them online on sites like Poshmark, or toss the ones that are damaged or worn out. I have a couple of bins that I store seasonal items in storage and rotate with the seasons.

2. Turn all of your hangers around: Turn the top of your hangers so that they are all facing backwards. Once you’ve worn an item, hang it up with the hanger facing the way it normally would. After a certain amount of time, you can see what you never even wore! You can do this at the beginning of each year, each season…whatever works best for you.

3. Use matching hangers: This helps give your hanging clothes a clean and cohesive look. Using the thin velvet hangers will also take up less space (and give you more room!) than bulky ones. I am hoping to change over the wooden hangers I’ve had forever to pretty blush velvet hangers this year. I also recommend a hanger stacker if you have room to hold all of your unused hangers in one spot.

4. Use pool noodles to keep your boots standing up: Some of my boots stand up by themselves, especially the taller ones. Find some pool noodles somewhere, like Target or the Dollar Tree. Cut them to fit the height of each of your boots to keep them upright and sturdy. This is inexpensive and it works great!

5. Sort your clothing in a way that makes sense for you: Personally, I sort my hanging clothes by sleeve length for both tops and dresses. Within each length, I then sort by color order (ROYGBIV). Others prefer to sort solely based on color for each. Do whatever is best for you! I like to look at my clothing items by sleeve length because if I’m layering anything this visually makes the most sense to my brain.

6. Use a valet hook: I use a valet hook to prep my outfit for the next day. I’m able to hang everything together, make sure it’s steamed and free of wrinkles, and ready to go when I am getting ready in the morning. It’s something that is really helpful and it’s nice to have one designated spot to keep things tidy.

7. Use shelf dividers: I use acrylic shelf dividers to get those most use out of my shelf space for folded items. They keep things spaced correctly and prevent items from falling over. They have made such a difference! The kind I have just slide over the front part of a solid shelf, but they also have dividers that work with wire shelving if that’s what you have.

8. Hang scarves on a tiered pants hanger: Try hanging your scarves on a tiered pants hanger. The slim design and multiple tiers can hold quite a few scarves. Just loop your scarves over each arm. Make sure you keep the loops as close together as possible to fit the maximum amount of scarves on your hanger.

9. Use baskets or bins to contain folded clothing, accessories, etc: I have a few decorative baskets that I keep my workout clothing and bathing suits in on some shelves in my closet. I also use varying sizes of clear acrylic bins to store hair accessories, belts, and more. It’s nice to be able to keep these items contained. Bonus points for using labels! Grab these clip-on bin tags, they’re my favorite for baskets. I ordered custom labels from The Home Edit for my clear bins, but you can also find pre-made labels online. It really helps to keep things neat and tidy when everything has a home.

10. Take advantage of vertical space: Make the most out of the space you have. Hang hooks for necklaces, display your hats, or find storage bins that fit on your tops shelves to store your belongings. Find boxes or bins that stack to fill in the shelf space. Vertical space is often wasted so be sure to use it to your advantage.

Closet Organizing Basics built in closet shelving and organization

If you need some more inspiration, take a look at these closet organizing ideas on Pinterest.

What do you need help organizing or storing in your closet? What do you struggle with? Please leave a comment below and let me know what I can help you with in your closet!

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

What You Need to Know About TRON Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom

If you’re a fan of the iconic TRON movie and you want to take a ride across the Grid, then you need to experience TRON Lightcycle / Run at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom! Boasting state-of-the-art technology, innovative lighting, and an adrenaline-pumping ride, this attraction is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip to the Magic Kingdom. So what do you need to know before you take this unforgettable journey? Read on to find out!

TRON Lightcycle / Run Opening Date

We finally have a Disney World Tron ride opening date! TRON Lightcycle / Run will open at Magic Kingdom on April 4, 2023. There will be previews before this date for Cast Members, Annual Passholders, and Disney Vacation Club Members.

Cast Member Previews will be between February 6th and March 3rd.

Annual Passholder and DVC Member dates have not been announced yet.

Similar to Shanghai Disneyland’s TRON Lightcycle Power Run

If you or someone in your family needs to view the ride in action or watch a POV video, the Tron ride at Magic Kingdom will almost identical to Shanghai Disneyland’s TRON Lightcycle Power Run. This is helpful to know what to expect for anxious riders or to gauge how scary it may be.

The Ride is Based on the Tron Movies

If you want to watch the movies before riding this ride, you can watch TRON (1982) and TRON: Legacy (2010) on Disney+.

Tron Will Be Located in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom

The new ride will be near the Tomorrowland Speedway and Space Mountain in the Tomorrowland section of Magic Kingdom. There is a walkway from Storybook Circus behind the Speedway.

Height Requirement for Tron

Riders must be at least 48″ tall to ride this ride.

How to Ride TRON Lightcycle / Run

TRON Lightcycle / Run will use a virtual queue, similar to Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at Epcot. If you have valid theme park admission and a park reservation for Magic Kingdom, you will have the opportunity to request to join the virtual queue in the My Disney Experience app. The times that virtual queue will be open have not been announced yet, but will likely be at 7:00 am.

You can also purchase an individual Lightning Lane in the My Disney Experience app. Again, you must have valid theme park admission and a park reservation for Magic Kingdom for this option as well. You will view the Disney Genie Tip Board in the app to choose an arrival window and make your purchase at 7:00 am. The pricing for this option will vary based on the date of your visit.

A standby queue will not be available for this ride.

Double Sided Ride Lockers

Similar to some rides at Universal Orlando, TRON Lightcycle / Run will have a double-sided and digitized locker system. You will be able to store bags and loose items while you ride. These complimentary lockers will pair with your MagicBand, MagicBand+, or physical park ticket to lock and reopen your locker. If you do not have a MagicBand or other ticket, such as a card, you will be provided with a card to assign your locker. All items must be placed either in a locker before you board your lightcycle, or in a small compartment located on the ride vehicle that can hold items such as a cellphone, glasses, or a wallet.

Tron Lightcycle Run the Ride

This ride is a fast launch roller coaster. It takes place mostly in a dark show theater but it does go outdoors under the large light canopies.

The ride vehicle is similar to the one in Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom. You will sit on an individual lightcycle and lean forward, gripping the handlebars. A pad from behind the seat will come down and secure you onto the lightcycle.

There are not any loops or inversions, but this ride is all about speed!

Ride Photos

TRON Lightcycle / Run will feature an onboard photo and video automatically linked to your My Disney Experience account. To make sure you receive your photos, use your mobile device, enable Bluetooth® for the My Disney Experience app before riding, ensure you’ve logged into the My Disney Experience app sometime earlier that day, and keep your device out of low power mode. Make sure your mobile device boards the ride with you and is safely stored in the small compartment. The other option is to wear a MagicBand or MagicBand+ that is linked to your My Disney Experience account.

I am so looking forward to this ride opening and I think it will be a great addition to Magic Kingdom. Are you planning to ride TRON Lightcycle / Run? Let’s chat in the comments!