Disney News, Discussion & an Element of Fun - 2024 Edition

I look at it this way: Including alcohol in the dining plan means I will always be able to eat what, where, and when I want rather than try to fit my meals into the plan's requirements.

What's more, over the years I have never---not once--spent as much or more than the relevant dining plan costs by just eating what I want when I want it. That's usually because I don't have the "right" number of TS meals, but there are other factors. I don't always order dessert. I often want a lighter meal, and those happen to be less expensive. And so on.

I'd bet money that, for most people, the dining plan represents an upcharge over what they would "normally" do.
 
I look at it this way: Including alcohol in the dining plan means I will always be able to eat what, where, and when I want rather than try to fit my meals into the plan's requirements.

What's more, over the years I have never---not once--spent as much or more than the relevant dining plan costs by just eating what I want when I want it. That's usually because I don't have the "right" number of TS meals, but there are other factors. I don't always order dessert. I often want a lighter meal, and those happen to be less expensive. And so on.

I'd bet money that, for most people, the dining plan represents an upcharge over what they would "normally" do.
For many I think they buy it to make Disney feel like an inclusive stay.
 
Yes. Also, my wife likes it since the price of food tends to stress her out and she feels compelled to go for cheaper options. She likes the freedom to order whatever she wants since it’s prepaid.
I did enjoy having it the couple times we used it. But it just didn't make economic sense anymore. Especially since they added alcohol right around the time I quit drinking.

Now that I have 2 Disney Adult kids that still just want Mac & Cheese and Chicken Nuggets, it would be a crazy bad deal. 😝
 
When I was a relative disney newbie I took a solo trip and had the dining plan. Big mistake..this was back when you could exchange your unused QS credits for snack credits (since discontinued I believe) and by the end of the stay I had about a suitcase size amount of rice krispie treats (my kids didn't mind) I did find relative value using 2 TS credits for my California Grill meal...that $75 steak was unbelievable....although I am sure worth half that. The server threw me a free drink too since he sensed I was uneasy sitting between tables full of "date nights"...he was wrong but I appreciated the gesture. Getting free alcohol at disney is a unicorn.
 
First Look at 2024 runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas Themes & Challenge Medal

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The runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas will be from December 1 through December 31, 2024.

General registration opens on July 9 at 10 a.m

This December, cozy up to some Yuletide fun for everyone during the holiday-themed runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas! Gather your friends and family for a little Disney magic with this jolly Challenge made up of three virtual 4K races hosted by favorite Disney friends. Even more festive…each of the race medals (three 4K medals and one Challenge medal) doubles as an ornament. And not only will you have access to customizable digital tools, but participating in this series will also let you unwrap exclusive swag like a long-sleeve hooded shirt, a holiday Corkcicle mug and a box of Twinings holiday tea. Talk about a happy holiday!

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Happy Halfway to the Holidays!
🎅
Visit Disney Parks Blog June 24-25 for all the holiday cheer
🎄

source: Disney Parks Facebook


New Halfway to the Holidays Disney Wallpapers are Here to Spread Cheer

Happy Halfway to the Holidays! Over the next few days, we’ll be sharing all kinds of cheerful news and announcements for the 2024 holiday season at Disney Parks. To kick things off and get you in the festive spirit, we’re sharing two new Disney holiday wallpapers for your phone, desktop, and watch.

When I celebrate Christmas at Disney parks, one of my favorite things to do is watch the reindeer prance and dance down Main Street, U.S.A. If you love the reindeer too, these wallpapers are just for you!

Be sure to check out the terms of use about using wallpapers before downloading.

That’s all the good tidings we bring for now. We hope you enjoy these merry Disney holiday backgrounds. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog and follow us on social at @ disneyparks for all the exciting Halfway to the Holidays announcements this week!

2024 Halfway to the Holidays Disney Wallpaper with Reindeer Wrapping Paper, Desktop
2024 Halfway to the Holidays Disney Wallpaper with Reindeer, Desktop
 
Disneyland Paris has to pay €400,000 fine

As far as I understand the issue: Disneyland Paris has to pay the €400K ($430k) fine for the communication about the new Annual Passes.
Last year when the new program was introduced (a 40% increase in price and basically all perks were removed), they claimed that there would be a quota how many APs there would be available. This "pressured" people in getting the new passes as soon as possible.

It is probably not a lot for a company like DLP, but it is not a good look.

 
Disneyland Paris testing with order kiosks at Café Hyperion

Disneyland Paris will start testing the use of order kiosks at Hyperion.
Hyperion is the only restaurant in our Tomorrowland (named Discoverland over here), so it's always incredibly busy. Fingers crossed this is going to improve things.

(We have mobile order at a handful of restaurants, but it's not rolled out in the entire park)
 
Yes. Also, my wife likes it since the price of food tends to stress her out and she feels compelled to go for cheaper options. She likes the freedom to order whatever she wants since it’s prepaid.

I recommend just putting what you would spend on the DDP on a Disney gift card instead. It's still prepaid, but if you don't spend all the money, you can still use it elsewhere. The majority of people will still have money left at the end of the trip.
 
I recommend just putting what you would spend on the DDP on a Disney gift card instead. It's still prepaid, but if you don't spend all the money, you can still use it elsewhere. The majority of people will still have money left at the end of the trip.
This is what we do. We did purchase the DDP in 2006 when it was way cheaper, included tips, and included dessert or apps at lunch & dinner. It was definitely a value back then. Since then it is not, especially since we don't drink alcohol either. Now we make our own DDP by using giftcards and there's no restrictions!
 
5 New and Returning Holiday Offerings Coming to Walt Disney World

We are halfway to the most wonderful time of the year and there really is no better place to celebrate the holidays than at The Most Magical Place On Earth!

From dazzling decorations and special parades to exclusive events and mouth-watering seasonal treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And since we are Halfway to the Holidays, here are 5 new and returning offerings that will have you planning the ultimate holiday getaway to Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney Jollywood Nights concept art

1. Disney Jollywood Nights is back!

Get your holiday glam ready, because Disney Jollywood Nights is once again rolling out the red carpet! On select nights Nov. 9 through Dec. 21, you can get holly and jolly for five festive hours from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. during this limited capacity, separately ticketed event.

Get ready to gather on Hollywood Boulevard for a new dazzling skating spectacular set to your favorite holiday tunes. Several times each evening, take in the grace and skill of international champion skaters in an awe-inspiring twist on the traditional ice show.

Are rare character hugs on your holiday wish list? You’re in luck – this year’s event includes over 20 unique character experiences featuring both new and returning favorites.

Reunite with beloved characters like Phineas and Ferb, Santa Duffy and Santa Stitch, and look forward to fresh new faces such as Bo Peep, Lotso, Baloo, and King Louie from TaleSpin. Don’t forget PhotoPass digital downloads are included in your event ticket!

Guests pose in front of Disney Jollywood Nights marquee


OG Disney Jollywood Nights fans will remember Ollie, the most dapper gingerbread man in Hollywood. This year, we’re introducing a new merchandise collection inspired by Ollie, featuring items like a Minnie Mouse ear headband and festive apparel.

Disney Jollywood Nights Ollie ear headband


Returning culinary favorites – including that iconic Gertie cookie! – will be available alongside new treats. Upon exit, each guest will also receive one sweet treat created by Wondermade!

I’ve made a list of Disney Jollywood Nights surprises, let me check it twice … oh yeah! In addition to meeting your favorite characters, indulging in delicious treats and shopping, the night will be packed with entertaining shows like What’s This? Tim Burton’s The
Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, Disney Holidays in Hollywood, and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!

The Holiday Fiesta en la Calle will move to Animation Courtyard and there you’ll be able to spot Jose Carioca and Panchito from The Three Caballeros! Meanwhile, The Twilight Soirée at the Tip Top Club located in the Tower Courtyard will have you dancing throughout the night. Jazzy Holidays at the Hollywood Brown Derby will return – I recommend getting a reservation due to limited space. Stay tuned to DisneyWorld.com/Jollywood for more information on how to book in September.

Guests of select Disney Resorts hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels and Shades of Green can purchase tickets starting on July 2. For all other guests, tickets will go on sale July 10. To purchase tickets, visit DisneyWorld.com/Jollywoodor call 407-934-7639. The dates for 2024 are:
  • Nov. 9, 13, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
  • Dec. 2, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21
With more Saturday dates added, there are plenty of opportunities to join in the holiday fun. Don’t miss out on this swanky holiday celebration at Disney Jollywood Nights!

Mickey and Minnie on a float in the Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade in Magic Kingdom

2. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Makes a Festive Return

I don’t know about you, but attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party has become a holiday tradition for me and my loved ones! Nothing beats experiencing the joy and holiday spirit this separately ticketed event brings to Magic Kingdom Park.

2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Spirt Jersey


This year, you can look forward to a new merchandise collection featuring exclusive apparel, trading pins and more – perfect for holiday gifting or keepsakes. Classic entertainment favorites will be back, including Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration castle stage show, ensuring that the holiday magic and traditions continue.

If you have a sweet tooth like I do, you’ll be excited to hear that those delicious complimentary cookies and cocoa will be available throughout the party once again, making the evening even sweeter. Every night will be filled with festive cheer, from the beautifully decorated Main Street, U.S.A. to the enchanting holiday-themed attractions.

Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show


Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a limited capacity five hour holiday event kicking off Nov. 8 and running on select nights through Dec. 20 from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. Guests of select Disney Resorts hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels and

Shades of Green can purchase tickets starting on July 2. For all other guests, tickets will go on sale July 10.

To purchase tickets, visit DisneyWorld.com/VeryMerry or call 407-934-7639. The dates for 2024 are:
  • Nov. 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29
  • Dec. 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20
Mark your calendars to experience the wonder and delight of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. There’s no better way to get into a magical holiday spirit!

Storytelling Santa at the EPCOT Festival of the Holidays

3. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Presented by AdventHealth

Holidays are a global tradition – and I can’t get enough of the sights, the sounds, and the sensational flavors at the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays starting on Nov. 29 through Dec. 30! Enjoy festive traditions from around the world with amazing holiday storytellers, delicious dishes, merchandise, entertainment and more, each celebrating unique cultural traditions.

Get ready to satisfy your festive cravings at Holiday Kitchens. Located throughout the park and serving up a mouth-watering array of seasonal foods and drinks, there are delicious treats waiting for you from around the globe.

One of the highlights for me is the Candlelight Processional. Listening to a celebrity narrator tell the Christmas story, accompanied by a full orchestra and mass choir, is such a moving experience—it truly captures the magic of the holidays. Keep an eye out on the Disney Parks Blog for this year’s lineup of narrators.

A polar bear in the Merry Menagerie at Disney's Animal Kingdom

4. More Festive Offerings Across Walt Disney World Resort

I’m thrilled to share that many of your favorite holiday offerings are returning to our parks and Disney Springs this season!

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, the enchanting Merry Menagerie of artisan-sculpted winter animal puppets will be back amidst the beautiful holiday décor. And don’t forget to meet Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Daisy in their festive attire!

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the yuletide projection show on the Hollywood Tower Hotel is making a comeback, and you can catch Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear in their festive attire in Toy Story Land.

Frozen Holiday Surprise in front of Cinderella Castle


Magic Kingdom will once again host the “Frozen Holiday Surprise” in front of Cinderella Castle, featuring Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and the adorable Snowgies.

Meanwhile, Disney Springs is the perfect spot for holiday shopping, with dazzling decorations and the popular Christmas Tree Stroll.

And don’t miss the magical snowfall in Town Center—yes, snow in Central Florida!

To put the bow on top, Santa Claus will be making appearances across all four parks, Disney Springs, and Disney Water Parks, where he’ll be donning his tropical holiday beachwear. Get ready to snap the perfect family portrait!

A family poses with Donald Duck inside a Disney resort hotel

5. Gingerbread Houses and Décor Galore

Staying at a Disney Resort hotel is an experience like no other, immersing you in the same legendary detail, service and storytelling found in the parks. Now picture that with Christmas trees, joyful decorations and the oh-so-delicious smell of gingerbread displays crafted by our world-class culinary teams!

To make it all even sweeter, starting on June 27 you can save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights from Nov. 24 to Dec. 25, plus other savings for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights between Oct. 6 to Nov. 21. You can also get a free Park Hopper option added to your tickets when you upgrade to a Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes a non-discounted 4-day or longer date-based ticket.

Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto and Goofy pose in holiday attire in front of Cinderella Castle


Whew – I can’t wait for the merriest time of the year at Walt Disney World. For more information, be sure to check out DisneyWorld.com/Holidays.

We’ll be sharing even more details as we get closer to the most wonderful time of the year, so gather your loved ones and get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday magic that only Disney can deliver!

*All entertainment and offerings are subject to change.

For Resort Offer: **Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Theme Park tickets and options valid for admission beginning on the date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on ticket length. Visit Disneyworld.com/usage for more details.
 
Yes. Also, my wife likes it since the price of food tends to stress her out and she feels compelled to go for cheaper options. She likes the freedom to order whatever she wants since it’s prepaid.
I never, ever understand this line of thinking, tbh the dining plan is actually way less freedom because you're locked into multi course meals--no doing only apps and drinks if you're not hungry, or skipping the largely mediocre TS desserts--and if you want to get your money's worth you have to avoid certain places and always order the most expensive thing on the menu. You also still have to pay gratuities. It has just always seemed like a colossal waste of money and a sucker's bet to me except for when they first started offering it years ago, or if you're the type of folk that do a ton of character dining.

If you want the all inclusive feel, just buy discounted gift cards. That way the money is still already earmarked for dining ahead of time, but you actually can eat whatever you want without wasting money, and whatever you don't spend on food can go towards merch or other things. We've always done our dining budget this way, and it also means we're not shackled to ADRs either.
 
















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