Does cold weather have you dreaming of your next trip to Walt Disney World? Well put down those hand warmers and pick up a guidebook. Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, The Complete Walt Disney World 2012 by Julie & Mike Neal is… Read More »The Complete Walt Disney World 2012 Review and Giveaway
Imagine you’re going out to your favorite Italian restaurant where you got engaged, had your wedding reception, and now eat every Sunday with friends and family for a lovely Prix-fix meal. There’s the roving accordion player, the bottles of imported Chianti on every table, and… Read More »A Hair Raising Analogy
Walt Disney Imagineer Ryan Parrish offers the first sneak peek inside Disney’s Art of Animation Resort at Walt Disney World Resort, as well as a look at the three large character icons featured in the “Finding Nemo” courtyard. Here’s the concept art again: How do… Read More »Finding Nemo Icons installed at Art of Animation Resort
Universal Orlando Resort showed a bit of restraint waiting until after Thanksgiving to launch its Christmas celebration. That’s appreciated by us purists, but means you only have a short window of time to get yourself to the resort and enjoy the festivities. For a list of their offerings, read our earlier post.
I recommend arriving early and exploring both parks. They have a lot of decorations up and the Holiday Village has fun games and treats for the whole family. I would have liked to see more entertainment options like they had for Mardi Gras, but there was still plenty to see and the treats all smelled delicious.
This year marks the 10th year the Macy’s Holiday Parade has run through the streets of Universal Studios. In theory these are the floats and balloons from the actual parade in NYC and I think I saw a few (the Polar Bear float and some of the balloon characters), the rest are from past parades. But it is the next best thing to being at the real parade, and it was a balmy 78 degrees instead of 42 degrees.
The highlight of the parade was Santa Claus lighting the Christmas Tree. But you have to be standing near the tree (opposite the Macy’s facade near Revenge of The Mummy).
Also returning is Grinchmas – a fun ‘wholiday’ stage show. The show was moved indoors a few years ago, which means you won’t encounter any weather issues. You will have to leave Suessland in Islands of Adventure and venture to one of the Soundstages, however. I found all of the featured performers to be quite talented. That includes Max the dog. Definitely catch this show when you visit.
Wrapping up the evening on the studios side is a special concert from Mannheim Steamroller. We didn’t stay to see the whole concert, but if you like their music, like I do, it is fun to see it made live and in person.
Please join me below the fold for more photos of our special evening at Universal Orlando Resort for their Christmas celebrations:
Read More »Universal Orlando Resort Hosts Holiday Festivities
Editor: Please welcome my wife Stacey who will be writing a series of travel planning articles. What shoes do I wear? That seems to be the question when visiting a Florida theme park. I have some helpful tips and recommendations that will help you get… Read More »Dressing for Vacation At Walt Disney World – Footwear
As you cross the threshold between Adventureland and New Orleans Square at Disneyland, you’ve undoubtedly seen the iconic Mark Twain Riverboat chugging along the Rivers of America, puffing white steam into the blue sky as she takes guests on a delightful twelve-minute journey through yesteryear.… Read More »Ahoy! Earn Your Pilot’s License on Disneyland’s Mark Twain Riverboat
Dreaming of a weekend getaway to the Happiest Place on Earth and wondering if you can do it without spending a whole lot? Here are some helpful tips to make it happen: Research + Planning = The Most Bang for Your Buck Packages: Booking a… Read More »Plan an Affordable Weekend Trip to Disneyland
The Art of Animation resort will offer 1,120 family suites (bedroom, living room, and kids sleep area) themed after “The Lion King,” “Cars” and “Finding Nemo” animated films, as well as 864 guest rooms inspired by “The Little Mermaid.” The current timeline has the “Finding… Read More »More Art of Animation Details – Phase One Opens May 31st, 2012