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Independent Travel Agent with Academy Travel

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 Beverages

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 Wristband

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.

Magic Kingdom Dessert Party

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: 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 at Magic Kingdom

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!

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

Should You Use a Travel Agent for Your Disney Vacation?

I get a lot of questions about how using a travel agent to plan your Disney vacation actually works.  Here’s the top one…how much does it cost?  Guess what, you do not pay me any fees and it does NOT cost more to use a travel agent!  I am able to provide so much more value than booking online through the website on your own. So, why should you use a travel agent for your Disney vacation? Let’s find out!

Why You Should Use a Travel Agent for Your Disney Vacation - red and black mickey ears on female with brown hair wearing black top on Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom

There is so much that goes into planning a trip to Disney these days. You can no longer just show up on the day of and visit a park without doing some planning ahead of time. With all of the new features like Genie+ and Magic Bands, you’ll want to know all of the ins and outs before you visit. This is why booking your Disney vacation with a travel agent that specializes in Disney destinations is a must!

It’s Free

You do not pay for my planning services, they are completely FREE to you. The agency that I am affiliated with, Academy Travel, gets paid by Disney and other suppliers for bookings. The commission is already factored into the prices online, whether you use an agent to book your trip or not.

Concierge Level Planning Services

If you book your trip with me, you get concierge level planning services for all of your trip details. I can do as much or as little for you as you would like. If you don’t want to get up at 6:00 AM to book your dining reservations, I’ll do it for you! This also applies to other special activities you might want to experience while you’re there. I will also help you link your reservations in the My Disney Experience account, link your travel party in your Family & Friends list, order your Magic Bands, and more. You will always have access to your plans in the My Disney Experience app so that you can make any adjustments on your own as well. This will make planning a trip to Disney stress-free for you!

Park Guides and Tips & Tricks from an Expert

I provide tips and tricks, park guides, suggested itineraries, and printable checklists for all of my travel clients to make sure they are prepared and ready to have a magical time! We will set up some checkpoints leading up to your vacation where we can go over details and any questions you might have over the phone or on a Zoom call. Once I know what rides, restaurants, characters, and activities are the most important to you and your family, I will make sure you know the best way to check everything off of your must-do list.

Promotions Applied for You

I always want my clients to get the best deal on their Disney vacation so if a new promotion comes out, I always check to see if any of my future bookings qualify. I will be able to apply the promotion for you to either save you money or upgrade you to a different resort at a better price. You won’t have to sit on hold on the phone for hours to see if your trip qualifies, I’ll take care of it all for you.

Personal Point of Contact

I will be your personal point of contact for everything related to your Disney vacation. You will have my direct contact information to help answer questions, process payments, and make any adjustments for you instead of waiting on hold with Disney.

Why you should use a disney travel agent for your disney vacation - female with minnie ears in front of cinderella's castle at magic kingdom

If you’re visiting Disney for the first time, be sure to avoid these common mistakes!

I have loved the relationships I have been able to build since I started. Being able to share the magic of why Disney is so special to me has been my favorite part! Planning 1st visits, birthday trips, Bachelorette weekends, multi-generational family vacations…I have been able to be a part of making these memorable and it has meant so much to me.

Please let me know if there are any other, more specific, questions I can help answer for you! You can follow my Instagram for all things Disney and travel. ✨ Complete my free quote form if you’re interested in a Disney vacation and I’ll be in touch!

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

8 Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Disney Trip

Congratulations! You’re headed to Disney and it’s sure to be a magical vacation! No doubt planning your first Disney trip can be a bit overwhelming, but with some helpful tips you can avoid making some common Disney mistakes.

Mistakes to avoid on your first Disney trip Mickey ears in front of Cinderella's Castle

Don’t Make These Common First Disney Trip Mistakes

No matter which coast you’re headed to, both Disneyland and Walt Disney World are amazing vacation destinations. But before booking your trip, it’s important to decide which one is right for you and your family. Consider things like budget, location, and what type of experience you’re looking for. When planning your first Disney trip, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can ruin the experience. Here are a few mistakes to avoid on your first trip to Disney:

Staying Off Property

One mistake first-time Disney visitors make is not staying at a Disney-owned resort hotel. While there are many great hotels near the parks, staying on property comes with a whole host of benefits.

From extra hours in the parks to complimentary transportation, there are many reasons to consider booking a room at a Disney resort hotel. You can’t beat staying in the “Disney bubble” for the complete experience.

Visiting During the Busy Season

If you’re planning your first Disney trip, you may be tempted to visit during peak season in order to take advantage of the special events. While there’s nothing wrong with this, keep in mind that crowds will be higher and prices will be at their peak during this time.

If you’re looking to save money and avoid the crowds, consider visiting during Disney’s off-season instead. You’ll find lower prices and shorter wait times for rides and attractions.

Not Using or Understanding Genie+

Genie+ is a service that allows you to schedule return times for many popular rides and attractions. While it’s not available for every attraction, it can be a helpful tool for avoiding waiting in long lines.

This newer system is a bit more complicated and it’s important to make sure you understand how it works, when you can make your selections, and where to find it in the Disney app ahead of time. If you wait until you’re in the park, you’ll lose out on the best options and won’t get the value out of purchasing it. I include a tip sheet and go over strategies for using Genie+ for my travel clients that book their trips with me.

Waiting Too Long to Plan Your Trip

One mistake that first-time Disney visitors make is not planning ahead. If you want to make the most of your trip, it’s important to have a plan. You’ll want to start by making a list of the must-do rides and attractions for everyone in your party.

You’ll also need to plan ahead with booking your resort to have the most availability, making park reservations as some parks can fill up ahead of time, and dining reservations. If you wait too long, you may not get some of the options you want.

Not Downloading the My Disney Experience App Ahead of Time

The My Disney Experience app is your one-stop shop for all things Disney. From making your dining reservations to checking wait times, this app is a must-have for any Disney traveler.

Be sure to download it before your trip and familiarize yourself with all of the features. The Tip Board will be your best friend when it comes to planning what to do next each day at the parks. You also need to make sure your entire travel party is linked in the app as well.

Wearing Uncomfortable Shoes

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to wear comfortable shoes when visiting Disney. You will be doing a LOT of walking while you’re there, so you’ll want to make sure your shoes are comfortable and supportive. Definitely have some Body Glide Anti Blister Balm on hand to prep your feet for a long day. Sometimes I do wear sandals to the parks if I know it’s not going to be a quick visit, but for those full park days I always go for sneakers.

Getting Dehydrated

Staying hydrated is extremely important, especially in the Florida heat. Be sure to bring a water bottle with you into the parks. You can fill it up for free at any of the drinking fountains or ask for a cup of ice water at most counter service locations.

I also recommend bringing Liquid IV hydration packets in your Disney park bag for an extra boost. You can use code DEVINEFAIRYTALE to save on your order before your trip. It’s a must for me!

Planning Too Much for Each Day

The worst thing you can do during your Disney vacation is to plan every single minute of it. There is such a thing as too much planning. I recommend building in rest time, or even a rest day to enjoy your resort, throughout your trip. Being tired and overstimulated isn’t a good combination for anyone. Leave time in your schedule for some spontaneity. Another piece of advice…don’t make a dining reservation for each and every meal. You’ll be so rushed trying to get from one thing to the next that you won’t get to fully enjoy all of the magic.

Disney World is an amazing place to visit, but it’s important to avoid making a few common mistakes. By staying using these helpful tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip. Want to make planning your Disney vacation even easier? Let me book it for you and I’ll take care of all of the details…for free! It’s time to get ready for the magic.

Categories: Disney, Theme Parks

NEW Disney Dining Promo Card for 2023

While the return of the beloved Disney Dining Plan has not been announced, an all new offer was just released! This promotional offer will give guests who book a qualifying Walt Disney World vacation during certain dates a Disney Dining Promo Card to use for food and beverage purchases at qualifying locations during their trip. This card will have a monetary value based on the check in date, number of nights booked, and the resort category instead of the previously used dining credits.

Ready to find out more? Here’s how the new Disney Dining Promo Card offer for 2023 works. If you’re planning a 2023 Disney vacation, this might be the perfect offer for you!

Disney Dining Promo Card Mickey Pretzel at Walt Disney World

Disney Dining Promo Card Booking Requirements

Beginning January 5, 2023, guests who book a non-discounted vacation package with a minimum 4 night stay and 4 day park tickets at select Walt Disney World Resorts can receive a complimentary Dining Promo Card. Check in dates must be between June 25th, 2023 and September 14, 2023. The value of the Dining Promo Card is based on the check in date and number of nights.

  • Minimum 4 night stay
  • Minimum 4 day theme park tickets
  • Everyone in the same room must have the same package, including same type of park ticket and number of park days
  • Cannot be combined with any other promotional offers

Qualifying Check In Dates, Resorts, and Card Values

  • June 25 – June 30, 2023 & July 11 – 31, 2023
    • Value Resort: $35 per night
    • Moderate Resort & Cabins: $75 per night
    • Deluxe Resorts & Deluxe Villas: $125 per night

  • July 1 – 10, 2023 & August 1 – September 14, 2023
    • Value Resorts: $50 per night
    • Moderate Resorts & Cabins: $100 per night
    • Deluxe Resorts & Deluxe Villas: $150 per night

Deluxe Villas: Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village, Disney’s BoardWalk Villas, Disney’s Old Key West Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Deluxe Resorts: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Moderate Resorts: The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Value Resorts: Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Exclusions: Campsites, 3 bedroom Villas, and Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Please note that the promo card value is based on the number of nights and not the number of guests. There will be one card given per reservation so if you have a larger party, it may benefit you to book multiple rooms.

The maximum value given will be $750.

Qualifying Locations to Use Your Disney Dining Promo Card

The Dining Promo Card can be used to purchase food and beverage items at select participating locations at Walt Disney World. Use your card at most quick-service venues, food carts, and table-service restaurants. Before you dine or purchase food and beverage items, be sure to check that the location accepts the digital Disney Dining Promo Card.

The following locations are unable to accept the Disney Dining Promo Card:

  • Merchandise locations and candy kitchens
  • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, and Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Hotel
  • Dining locations at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
  • Dining locations at Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels
  • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Official Hotels at Bonnet Creek
  • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Gateway Hotels

Mickey Waffle and Breakfast Platter at Whispering Canyon Cafe Disney Dining Card Promo

How to Use Your Disney Dining Promo Card

Once you arrive at your resort and are checked in, the digital Disney Dining Promo Card will be sent via email to guest email associated with the reservation. Be sure to check your spam or junk folders for a message from Disney Gift Card Services. This email will include the total amount on the card as well as the barcode for use.

If you have any issues receiving the promo card, speak to the front desk for assistance.

To utilize your card balance, simply present the barcode from the email during your food and beverage transaction. It is used similarly to a Disney Gift Card.

Gratuities are not included and it seems that those would need to be paid separately.

This Disney Dining Promo Card gives guests more flexibility than the previous Disney Dining Plan as they are not restricted to credits or limits per meal period.

You can view your remaining balance at the bottom of your receipt on the most recent purchase, by visiting DisneyGiftCard.com, or by calling (877) 650-4327.

The promo card can be added to your digital wallet but cannot be added to a Magic Band, Magic Band+, or Magic Mobile. If using mobile order in the My Disney Experience app, you can type in the number for the card to pay for the order.

Stay, Play, and Dine Disney Dining Card Promo Image

FAQS

  • If I already have a reservation during these dates, can it be modified to include this Dining Promo Card offer?
    • Current reservations can be modified, however, due to recent price changes it may increase the cost of your Disney vacation package. Be sure to keep that in mind!

  • When will the Dining Promo Card expire?
    • Any remaining balance on the card will expire on September 30, 2023.

For all of the most up to date information, you can visit the Disney Dining Promo site.

Ready to book a summer vacation to Walt Disney World and take advantage of this new offer? I would love to take all of the stress out of booking and planning your magical vacation. As a travel agent, my services are completely free to use and I’ll handle all of the details for you. Fill out my quote form and I will be in touch!

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