EPIC Universe - May 22, 2025!

After years of waiting, Universal has finally revealed the opening date for the newest park coming to Universal Orlando - EPIC UNIVERSE will be open on May 22, 2025!

Joining Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, Universal’s Epic Universe will be an incredible, immersive park with the excitement kicking in as soon as you walk through the gates, with four portals to four amazing worlds just beyond.

Epic Universe will feature over 50 experiences, including 11 ride attractions — and 7 roller coasters throughout the park!

As you walk through the gates, you’ll find:
CELESTIAL PARK - a different experience during the day and at night, this is your entry into Universe of Epic, featuring Stardust Racers, a dueling coaster

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD - A land dedicated to all things Mario, Donkey Kong, Yoshi and lots of those green pipes! Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, and the Donkey Kong themed Mine Cart Madness are the main attractions here.

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON: ISLE OF BERK - Enter the land of dragons and Vikings, meet Toothless and Hiccup, and fly high on Dragon’s Racer Rally!

DARK UNIVERSE - Step back in time to a day of classic monsters, entering the spooky village of Darkmoor, and experience the family coaster Curse of the Werewolf, meet the monsters you remember from the old films, and much more.

THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER - MINISTRY OF MAGIC - Blending 1920s Paris from the "Fantastic Beasts" series with the 1990s Britain, you can Battle the Ministry and take on Deloris Umbridge, meet the wandmakers, and of course, Butterbeer!

Tickets for Epic U go on sale October 22, and will be available in multi-day tickets for 3 days or longer, which will include one-day admission to Universal Epic Universe. Additional ticket options, like 1-day and 2-day Epic U tickets will be available at a later date before the park opens.

Information about VIP Tours, My Universal Photo packages, and Express Pass for Epic U will be launched at a later date before the park opens, and more details on this will come soon.

Grand Helios resort hotel will also be available for booking beginning October 22, for stays beginning May 22, 2025 and beyond. Currently, reservations for Terra Luna and Stella Nova hotels are available now.

WDW Winter & Spring Savings!

Are you considering a 2025 vacation to the Most Magical Place on Earth? Now’s the best time to get it planned with your favorite Upon a Star Travel advisor - you can save hundreds, maybe thousands, off a WDW vacation with three ways to save!

FIRST… SAVE UP TO $200 PER NIGHT!!

On select stays beginning February 26 through June 30, 2025, with your vacation package (minimum 3 night resort stay + tickets), save $60 per night on Disney Value Resorts, $120 per night on Disney Moderate Resorts, and up to $200 per night on most Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts.

Packages available per resort are limited. Everyone in room must be on same package. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Offer excludes the following room types: Campsites; 3-Bedroom Villas; Deluxe Resort Suites; Club Level Rooms; Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge; Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort; and Bungalows and Island Tower 2-Bedroom Penthouses at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

SECOND… SAVE UP TO 25% ON DISNEY RESORT ROOMS!!!
With your Walt Disney World room-only stay or vacation package stay, you can save 10-15% on Disney Value Resort rooms, 15-20% on Disney Moderate Resort rooms, and 20-25% on most Disney Deluxe Resort rooms. on most nights January 1st to April 30, 2025.

Minimum one night, maximum four night stays. Cannot be combined with any other promotion. Offer is for room only, not for tickets. Offer excludes the following room types: 3-Bedroom Villas; Deluxe Suites; Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge; Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort; and Bungalows and Island Tower 2-Bedroom Penthouses at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

THIRD… FLORIDA RESIDENTS CAN SAVE UP TO 30% ON ROOMS

Save up to 30% on rooms for stays most nights from February 23 to April 30, 2025. Save 15 to 25% on rooms for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 1 to February 20, 2025, and save 20 to 30% on rooms for stays most nights from February 23 to April 30, 2025.

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price a non-Florida resident pays for the same room. Length of stay requirements may apply. Offer excludes the following room types: Campsites; 3-Bedroom Villas; Deluxe Suites; Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge; Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort; and Bungalows and Island Tower 2-Bedroom Penthouses at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. Proof of Florida residency required at check-in.

Please contact your favorite Upon a Star Travel advisor for details, quotes, and more information!!!

The D23 Park Panel

The anticipation was high as Josh D’Amaro, the Chairman of Walt Disney Company Parks and Resorts, took the stage on Saturday night, the 2nd night of D23: The Ultimate Fan Event.

The Disney Experiences Showcase, also commonly called “The Parks Panel”, was the chance for Walt Disney Company to reveal upcoming projects for the parks around the world, news from Disney Cruise Line, gaming updates and even more - and right off the bat, Josh told the world that everything that was to come was already in development, that shovels were already moving dirt, plans were already moving forward - hence, no “Blue Sky” (the term Disney uses for “projects we are dreaming about”)

And over the course of close to 3 hours, it was one announcement after another, with new lands, new attractions, updates to attractions, new cruise ships, and much more, mixed in with performances by everyone from Shaboozey to John Stamos to 90s group All-4-One! Even Deadpool took the stage to raucous applause, with a number that both celebrated - and skewered - our love for Disney and all of its parts.

If you missed an announcement or five, don’t be ashamed - it was a lot to take in, but thankfully we’ve got you covered! Let’s go park by park, and then different parts of the company to recap the Disney Experience Showcase!

MAGIC KINGDOM

Artist Rendering of Villains Land (title not official). No opening date given.

**It was the end of the night, but it was finally revealed that a VILLAINS LAND is coming to Magic Kingdom, featuring at least 2 new attractions, with dining and shopping. No construction start date or opening dates announced, and the location was not confirmed, but it’s likely what will be featured “Beyond Thunder Mountain.”

**In a surprising announcement, there will be TWO new CARS THEMED ATTRACTIONS coming to Frontierland, one aimed at younger kids. This will not be a recreation of Radiator Springs, and will tell new stories. It was revealed today that this Cars area will take over the land now held by Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America. No closing date for those attractions, nor projected opening dates for Cars announced.

**The long drought is ending next summer, as a brand new nighttime parade, DISNEY STARLIGHT, will premiere in Summer 2025

**The Pirates of the Caribbean themed TAVERN announced previously, will be officially opening some time in 2025.

EPCOT

**There isn’t a lot to add to Epcot this time around, as the walls that had been up for many years finally came down in June. But a SPACESHIP EARTH THEMED LOUNGE was announced, and the updated TEST TRACK will also re-opening in 2025.

ANIMAL KINGDOM

**We finally got more details on the TROPICAL AMERICAS that was announced at previous D23. It will be taking over the area known as DinoLand, and construction will start later this year. The plans are to close the land piece by piece, allowing guests to enjoy the area before it closes for good. Projected opening in 2027.

**Disney’s hugely popular film “ENCANTO” will finally have it’s first attraction in any Disney Park, as guests will arrive as Antonio has received his special gift - talking to animals - and will make their way through the iconic Casitas!

**The long-standing rumor that INDIANA JONES would replace the beloved Dinosaur attraction was finally confirmed, but it will be an all new adventure, not an East Coast copy of the popular the Disneyland Indiana Jones ride.

**Enjoy the Pollinators while you can, as “Its Tough to Be A Bug”, featured within Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life, will depart, as “ZOOTOPIA: BETTER TOGETHER” show will premiere in Winter 2025.

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

Artist rendering on the Monsters Inc suspended coaster

**In an announcement that literally no one saw coming, we learned Monstropolis and a MONSTERS INC LAND would be coming to Hollywood Studios!!

**As part of Monsters Inc Land, we will get Disney’s first a SUSPENDED COASTER taking you through the factory and into the famous door scene.

**In support of the upcoming film, “The Mandalorian & Grogu”, Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run will feature NEW ADVENTURES with our favorite Mando and little green guy (who is NOT Baby Yoda, by the way).

DISNEYLAND

**The opening date for TIANA’S BAYOU ADVENTURE there will be November 15, 2024. Critter Country to be renamed Bayou Country.

**The new AVATAR LAND will be in Disneyland, but will not feature Flight of Passage, and instead be a different adventure, this one themed around the sequel "Way of Water" and the upcoming "Fire & Ash" film.

**For the Disney fans of all ages, Walt will be coming back to his own park, as WALT DISNEY - A MAGICAL LIFE will premiere in 2025 in the Disneyland Opera House. This new show will feature an advanced audio-animatronic Walt Disney, and will eventually rotate with Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln show.

Avengers Campus will get TWO new attractions, including Infinity Defense

DISNEY’S CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE

**For the Marvel fans, Avengers Campus at California Adventure is going to nearly double in size in the coming years, starting with a journey through the Multi-Verse, battling “King Thanos”, in the new attraction AVENGERS INFINITY DEFENSE.

**In a two person pod, guests will be “transported” to a Stark test station to experience similated flight. Robert Downey Jr is reprising his role as Tony Stark in the new STARK FLIGHT LAB coming to California Adventure.

**The first COCO themed attraction will be a boat ride in California Adventure.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

**Continuing the legacy of having Broadway style shows on their ships, the Disney Destiny will feature a production of "HERCULES". The Disney Destiny will set sail in 2025.

**As if the Disney Wonder, Magic, Fantasy, Dream, Wish, Treasure, Adventure, and Destiny aren’t enough (and let’s face it, they aren’t), we know another unnamed ship is coming soon. And then, it was announced that between 2027 and 2031, there will be FOUR NEW SHIPS added to the Disney Cruise fleet, bring the fleet to 13 ships - I’m going to need a checklist.

**Then new Moana stage show on the upcoming Disney Treasure will feature a 15 FOOT HIGH TA KE PUPPET.

OVERSEAS PARKS

**In Disney’s Adventure Park in Disneyland Paris, the Lion King will not only get it’s own attraction, but also an entire PRIDE LAND area.

**Also in Disney’s Adventure Park, the WORLD OF FROZEN will open in 2026.

**A SPIDER-MAN COASTER is confirmed for Shanghai Disneyland.

**And our fave web-head also hits another Asian park, as a SPIDEY ATTRACTION is confirmed or Hong Kong Disneyland.

DISNEY GAMING

**And finally, the massively popular online phenomenon known as FORTNITE will have an expansive Disney universe, including Disney villains Maleficent, Cruella de Vil, and Captain Hook, Pixar’s Mr. Incredible, ElastiGirl, and Frozone, Star Wars' Moff Gideon, IG-11, and Grogu as a Back Bling, and a new Marvel season starring Doctor Doom. What does all of that mean? Ask your 14 year old.

WHEW… That is A LOT of information. Keep in mind, things do happen - projects get shifted and changed, things get pushed back, and occasionally, things might get canceled, but Josh D’Amaro mentioned at least twice during the night that EVERYTHING revealed and discussed are ALREADY in production… nothing is still just a dream project being talked about. Shovels are moving dirt as we speak!

Construction times and opening dates are mostly undetermined, but I tried to list what has been announced. If there was no date, then it wasn’t revealed (or likely known) but expect most of these projects to coming to full fruition likely in the next 3 to 5 years!

And when you are ready for your own Disney adventure, make sure to contact your FAVORITE Upon a Star Travel Planner!

The D23 Entertainment Panel

Disney’s D23: The Ultimate Fan Experience kicked off last Friday, August 9th, and featured an entire weekend of interviews, celebrities, history, behind the scenes showcases, lots of fans in incredible costumes, and of course, big presentations showing what is to come!

Friday night, D23 presented their entertainment panel, with highlights of movies, TV, and more, from all parts of the Walt Disney Company, like Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, and Disney animation.

Here is what you can expect in the coming months and years!

DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS

**Opening in theaters on November 27, 2024: "Moana 2" will feature Moana searching for tribes on the waters she's sailed, and will intro who is sure to be a fan favorite - her little sister

**In theaters December 20, 2024: The story of Mufasa and Scar in "Mufasa". New trailer out now.

**November 26, 2026: "Zootopia 2", with Nick & Judy as seasoned crime fighters. We'll also get Gary the snake, voiced by Ke Huy Quan. In theaters.

**Expected in 2027: The further adventures of Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and Kristof in "Frozen III", which will be a two part story, that will lead to "Frozen IV" some time later

DISNEY PIXAR

**December 6, 2024: Pixar’s first series, "Win or Lose", premieres on Disney+

**June 13, 2025: "Elio", a new film from Pixar, with the space adventures of an imaginative little guy. In theaters

**Expected sometime in 2025: "Dream Productions", a Pixar series about Riley's dreams, set between events of "Inside Out" and "Inside Out 2"

**June 19, 2026: "Toy Story 5", where the toys are up against the tech that kids are obsessed with. Artist renderings show Woody reunited with Buzz, Rex, Slinky and the gang.

**Release to be determined: Pixar announced "Incredibles 3", with the Parr family on more super adventures.

**Release to be determined: “Hoppers", an original Pixar film about a girl who trades minds with a robot beaver. Gotta love the imagination at Pixar!

MARVEL & THE MCU

Harrison Ford portrays Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, a character that eventually becomes “Red Hulk”

**Premiering on Disney+ on September 18, 2024: "Agatha All Along", starring Agatha, a Marvel witch character and fan favorite first seen in "WandaVision"

**In theaters February 14th, 2025: "Captain America: Brave New World" hits theaters, and new footage was released, showing off Harrison Ford as Red Hulk

**On Disney+ in March 2025: "Daredevil: Born Again" brings the blind superhero in Hell’s Kitchen fully into the MCU. Jon Berthnal returns as The Punisher and Vincent D'Onofrio in once again Kingpin.

**In May 2025: "Thunderbolts", the final film of MCU’s Phase 5 hits theaters. “Thunderbolts” features a line up of MCU “anti-heroes”, including featuring Bucky Barnes, aka The Winter Soldier, The Red Guardian, John Wilson, and Yelena, aka The Black Widow's bitter little sister

**Finally hitting theaters, on July 25, 2025: Marvel’s First Family, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is released to theaters. We got a brief glimpse of the costume and a small bit of footage.

**Release Date undetermined: "Ironheart", a MCU series based on a character featured in "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever". Premieres on Disney+

STAR WARS
**December 3, 2024: "Star Wars: Skeleton Crew", a coming-of-age story set in the New Republic era, premieres on Disney+, almost like The Goonies mixed with The Force.

**May 26, 26: The much anticipated "The Mandalorian & Grogu" full length feature film released to theaters

**Release date undetermined: The critically acclaimed "Andor" returns for a 2nd season, and will follow Cassian Andor over a 4 year period, and will take the story right up to the events of "Rogue One". Will be on Disney+

DISNEY LIVE ACTION

**In theaters March 21, 2025: The much delayed adaptation of "Snow White" premieres, starring Rachel Zeigler as Snow and Gal Gadot as the evil queen. A new trailer is out now.

**In theaters October 10, 2025: We return to the Grid with "Tron: Ares". With Jared Leto and Jeff Bridges starring, we’ll see the characters leaving the grid and entering the real world. Music composed by Nine Inch Nails.

The first look at Stitch from the upcoming live action film

**Summer 2025: The "Lilo & Stitch" live action remake will be released to theaters, as the presentation showed off the CGI Stitch for the first time, and looks remarkedly better than you'd think!

**In theaters May 2025: The stars of the 2003 hit remake “Freaky Friday return, as Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan have an even "Freakier Friday". The sequel will be exclusively in theaters.

**To be released in 2025: The popular series returns for Season 2, as "Percy Jackson and the Sea of Monsters" will be on Disney+

** Premiering in theaters December 19, 2026: "Avatar: Fire and Ice", with the Na'vi facing off against more hostile, possibly flammable, Na’vi around the planet of Pandora.

**Release undetermined: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson announced the film "Monster Jam", a film about Monster Trucks, is now in production.

DISNEY BROADWAY

**Sometime in 2025: The hugely popular Broadway show "Frozen" will be on the small screen, as it will begin streaming on Disney+

**Release undetermined: Disney is producing a Broadway musical based on "The Greatest Showman" (and by many accounts, the performance that came with that announcement one of the highlights of the night)

All dates are subject to change, and projects may - and some will - be altered.

Lightning Lane Changes Begin July 24th

If you have spent the last few years missing the old Fastpass system, while simultaneously lamenting over the work and confusion of Genie+… well, listen up! Because there are some big changes coming to Disney World!

Starting July 24th at Disney World’s four theme parks, the current “Genie+” will go away, replaced by a brand new system! There is a lot to discuss, so let’s get into it!

First, what is (was?) Genie+? It’s a system that allows guests to reserve an attraction or experience (think Space Mountain in Magic Kingdom or the Frozen Sing-Along in Hollywood Studios) ahead of their park day. You would purchase daily for each person, then dive into the app at a breakneck pace at 7am each morning, hoping to secure not only a Lightning Lane for a favorite attraction, then also a purchased time for an Individual Lightning Lane. It was a system that could be confusing, stressful, and frustrating, sometimes made even stressful if your WiFi was not working.

Out of the gate, Genie+ had its fans, but had many, many detractors. And finally, Disney has heard the feedback and has revealed the changes coming in only a few weeks!

Genie+ will go away, and will morph into the “Lightning Lane Multi Pass”, a paid service that will allow you to select multiple attractions per day for your vacation.

Beginning at 7am Eastern / 6am Central, at 7 days prior to their check in date, resort guests (including Shades of Green and the Swan & Dolphin) can select up to THREE attractions at one theme park per day, for their entire length of their stay (up to 14 days). Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot will have a “tiered” list, basically meaning “Choose 1 from this list, and 2 from this list” while Animal Kingdom will not be tiered, rather just one list of attractions and experiences.

These selections can be modified later, and once in the park, after you use your first selection, you can choose another in the same park or if you have a park hopper option on your ticket, at a different park (further selections are subject to availability).

For those off-property, or with non-date based tickets (think Annual Passholders, Main Entrance Passes, comped tickets, etc), and with no on-site stay, your reservation window will open up at 3 days prior to your first park day. The Lightning Lane Multi Pass can also be purchased on the day of your park visit as well.

The Individual Lightning Lane attractions will now fall under the “Lightning Lane Single Pass”, which will let guests purchase highly popular attractions and reserve their specific time ahead of their trip. These can only be used once per each experience, and guests can purchase and reserve up to two Single Pass reservations per day. If your ticket includes the Park Hopper option, you can also reserve these at different parks, and you can utilize this option even without purchasing the Lightning Lane Multi Pass.

So if you use both, you can actually have up to FIVE attractions or experiences reserved before you even arrive at the park! For example, with a purchased Multi Pass, and purchased Single Pass selections, with a park day at Magic Kingdom (and a park hopper ticket), you could have on your schedule Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean, all with specific windows to ride, with Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind at Epcot, and Star Wars Rise of the Resistance at Hollywood Studios — all reserved a week before you even get to Magic Kingdom!

Pricing will likely change as the Genie+ price can change from week to week, sometimes day to day, and we may not know the pricing until just before, or maybe on July 24th. And if July 24th falls in the middle of your trip, you can make your Multi Day and Single Pass Lightning Lane selections on the morning of July 24th for the remainder of your trip.

This new system can be used interchangably with the Disability Access Service (DAS Pass) as the two programs are not connected.

For Disneyland, however, only the names will change. The Genie+ system will remain in place, but will begin using “Multi Pass” and “Single Pass” for it’s system.

And unfortunately at this time, international guests will not be able to make Lightning Lane passes or take advantage of the early planning until they arrive in the United States, even if the 7-day planning window begins before that.

For more specifics, including getting Lightning Lane Multi Passes and Lightning Lane Single Passes for your trip on July 24th or after, contact your favorite Upon a Star Travel Advisor!

The 2024 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!

On select nights Nov. 8-Dec. 20, this separately ticketed event will welcome guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom!

Throughout the evening, you can:

• Delight in the amazingly festive Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show!

• Gather to watch Disney Characters give a yuletide nod to the season during Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.

• Head over to Cinderella Castle for Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration, with live performers and dancers singing a medley of holiday songs, including The Big Cheese himself, Mickey! (American Sign Language interpretation offered on parties on 11/11, 12/5, 12/10, and 12/19)

• Join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and the snowgies at 8:15 PM as Cinderella Castle turns into a frozen wonderland during the Frozen Holiday Surprise.

• Get the perfect picture with Disney pals dressed in their Christmas best!

• Bust a move during a mega fun dance party at Rockettower Plaza Stage during the Club Tinsel party

• Young Christmas party guests can join favorite characters from The Lion Guard, Fancy Nancy, Doc McStuffins, and Vampirina at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe’s Disney Junior Jingle Jam

• Guests can also look forward to enjoying some of their favorite classic and thrill attractions, including TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, which will use a virtual queue* during the event.

You can experience lower wait times at most attractions, including some holiday touches at some favorites like Space Mountain, jokes with a Christmas twinge at both Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor and Jungle Jingle Cruise, take a drive on the Tomorrowland Speedway Race Through the Holidays, and take a spin on to the combo of music and lights on the Mad Tea Party.

And at the 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you can look forward to a new merchandise collection featuring exclusive apparel, trading pins and more – perfect for holiday gifting or keepsakes.

Got a sweet tooth? Then don’t forget to grab some delicious complimentary cookies and cocoa, available throughout the party all night, 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.  

Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are limited and can be purchased online beginning July 10.

Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green can purchase tickets NOW, through your Upon a Star Travel Agent or with Disney.

The party dates and prices are: (listed as ‘adult 10+ / child age 3-9)**

• November 8, 11, 12, 14 SOLD OUT

• November 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29 - SOLD OUT

• December 1, 3, 5, 6 - SOLD OUT

• December 8, 10, 12, 13 - SOLD OUT

• December 15, 17 - $209/199

• December 19 - $219/209

• December 20 - SOLD OUT
  

And don’t forget, there is SNOW MUCH more to look forward to during the Christmas season at Walt Disney World! Starting November 8th, the holiday will bring:

• For the first time in forever, guests will be able to join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the Snowgies in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom for “Frozen Holiday Surprise,” a “Frozen”-inspired entertainment experience offered during regular park hours and during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

• Amidst the glowing holiday décor, a Merry Menagerie of winter animals returns to Animal Kingdom in the form of artisan-sculpted puppets.

• EPCOT will celebrate with the return of “Candlelight Processional” during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays beginning Nov. 29-Dec. 30. Other guest-favorite traditions like spirited storytellers, joyful musical acts and performers, and Holiday Kitchens will return to World Showcase this festive season.

• Hollywood Studios will return the Yuletide Projection Show on The Hollywood Tower Hotel this season. At Toy Story Land, you can once again spot Woody, Jessie and Buzz sporting their holiday best.

• At Disney Springs, the shopping will be amidst the dazzling décor and the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll will return. Visitors who stop in Town Center won’t believe what they see – magical snowfall in Central Florida!

• Guests can say hello to Santa Claus as he makes special appearances in all four parks, Disney Springs and even at a Disney Water Park, where you’ll find him dressed in his tropical holiday beachwear.

And back this season, Disney’s JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS at Hollywood Studios, a fantastically jazzy separately ticketed event — find all the details here!

To get your tickets or to book your package (with great possible savings, as Disney released some great offers for fall and Christmas!) contact your favorite Upon a Star Agent!

**Your totals with tax are:

• $159 (169.34)…

• $169 (179.99)…

• $179 (190.64)…

• $189 (201.29)…

• $199 (211.94)…

• $209 (222.59)…

• $219 (233.24)

Annual Passholder and DVC discounts are also available

Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios Returns in 2024!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Or, at least, we are halfway there as Walt Disney World has given us two BIG announcements during their #HalfwayToTheHolidays week!

It’s a vibe at Hollywood Studios this holiday season, as Disney World brings back DISNEY JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS! Sparking atmosphere, modern beats over classic seasonal tunes, crafted cocktails and delicious snacks, with nostalgia, glitz and glamour all the way around!

This is a separately ticketed event held 7:30 pm to 12:30 am on select nights from November 9th to December 21st, full of Holiday Hoopla and Christmas Cheer!

It’s a holiday vibe like you’ve never felt before. Sights of sparkling décor, sounds of modern beats over classic holiday songs, tastes of craft cocktails and decadent dishes. It’s nostalgic and it’s glitz and glam galore. This is Disney Jollywood Nights – a separately ticketed event from 7:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. on select nights Nov. 9 - Dec. 21, 2024.

 Experience holiday vibes throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios with entertainment areas inspired by different genres:

• What’s this? WHATS THIS??? The Hyperion Theater gets a Jollywood Nights makeover with a Nightmare Before Christmas sing-along!

• Encounter glitz and glamor galore in The Hollywood Brown Derby with a piano bar, with a singer and a piano performing jazz standards, in a speakeasy type atmosphere

• Saunter over to Echo Lake for a throwback bash that’s sure to stir up nostalgia for the 1990s and 2000s. You may spot Phineas, Ferb and Max Goof as Powerline. Plus, Baloo and King Louie from from Talespin will join the fun in 2024!

• Experience Holiday Fiesta en la Calle, a lively holiday street fair in Courtyard from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM. It’s a vibrant scene with warm lighting, colorful décor and spirited musicians performing Latin holiday tunes—as well as appearances from José Carioca and Panchito from The Three Caballeros.

• Celebrate in Pixar Plaza! Step into a dance party with the incomparable Edna Mode.

• You are cordially invited to Twilight Soirée at the Tip Top Club—a swingin' celebration in the courtyard of The Hollywood Tower Hotel. Here, you can sip cocktails* and unwind in style while a live band swoons and croons holiday tunes. Sets begin at 7:30 PM, 8:10 PM, 8:50 PM, 9:30 PM, 10:30 PM, 11:10 PM and 11:50 PM.

• NEW! Gather for a dazzling skating spectacular on Hollywood Boulevard, set to your favorite holiday tunes. Take in the grace and skill of international champion skaters in an awe-inspiring twist on the traditional ice show—with performances at 8:15 PM, 9:15 PM, 10:20 PM, 11:15 PM and 12:15 AM.

• Enjoy the return of a festive favorite, “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” This Santa-sized nighttime spectacular is jam-packed with music, fireworks, special effects and dazzling state-of-the-art projections.

   Snap selfies with unique photo opportunities throughout the night:

• Pose with friends for holiday-themed Magic Shots and new Disney PhotoPass experiences throughout the night. Complimentary digital downloads of your Disney PhotoPass photos captured during the event are included with the price of your ticket.**

• Meet Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the rest of the iconic gang in Animation Courtyard on a hot set with holiday props. Get into the spirit with your fave throwback friends like Powerline Max and Phineas and Ferb at Echo Lake and strike a pose with Edna Mode and Frozone in Pixar Place... with snow!!! Over 20 character experiences will be available.

    Enjoy after-hours access to some of your favorite rides and coasters under the stars:

• After-hours access to some of your favorite rides and coasters like Slinky Dog Dash, Rock N’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and more. (Star Wars: Rise of Resistance will use virtual queue* during Disney Jollywood Nights.)

Disney Jollywood Nights is a limited-capacity holiday event. Guests of select WDW hotels, the Swan and Dolphin hotels, and Shades of Green are AVAILABLE NOW!!

For all other guests, tickets may be purchased starting July 10…

Ticket dates and prices are:

• November 9 - SOLD OUT

• November 13 - $159

• November 16 - $169

• November 18 - $159

• November 23, 25 and 30 - $179

• December 2 - $169

• December 7, 11, 14, 18 and 21 - $179
  Prices are same for everyone ages 3 and up.
  Prices with tax are: $159 ($169.34)… $169 ($179.99)… $179 ($190.64)

And don’t forget, the Holiday Season will take over the Walt Disney World resort, including parades, animal menageries, new shows, Christmas tree strolls, and the return of the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! DETAILS HERE!!!

Contact your favorite Upon a Star Agent for your tickets and your WDW Vacation Package!

Disney's Halloween Details

It’s Halfway to Halloween, and Disney has (finally!) released news and updates for the fall!

First, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party returns on August 9th, and runs select nights through October 31st.

Some of the surprises and highlights include:

*More Villains! Some of your favorite bad guys and gals can be spotted through the parks, including chances for those Spooky Epic Selfies!

*Mickey & Minnie get all new Halloween duds, as their outfits will feature neon and spiderwebs!

*While we usually don’t talk about him… we will just this once — Bruno will be appearing with Mirabel at the Madrigal House for a new, party-exclusive meet n greet!

*The iconic Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade will have an earlier start time, for those families will little princesses and pirates who may need an earlier bedtime (so they don’t turn into ghouls of their own!)

*Let your inner villain loose in Tomorrowland, at the DescenDANCE Party, inspired by the Disney original film “Descendants: The Rise of Red”

*Plus… Jack Skellington hosts the returning Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show… The Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular is back!… enjoy trick or treating throughout the park… and lots and lots of party exclusive merchandise will be available!

Tickets are on sale now!

Party dates and prices (children 3-9 / adults 10+ )
(Prices listed to do not include tax)
August 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30 - SOLD OUT
September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20 - SOLD OUT
September 22, 24, 26, 27, 29 - SOLD OUT
October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8 - SOLD OUT
October 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20 - SOLD OUT
October 21 ($179 / $189)
October 24, 25, 27, 29, 31 - SOLD OUT
And of course, Halloween isn’t just celebrated at Disney World!

At Disney’s California Adventure, the Oogie Boogie Bash returns August 25th, running select nights through October 31st.

Disney Cruise Line celebrates Halloween on the High Seas on select sailings in September and October

Make sure you contact your favorite Upon a Star Travel Advisor for all the updates and to get your tickets with your Disney vacation package!

A Free Delicious Deal for Disney+ Subscribers!

Over here at Upon a Star, we've talked about the promotion that has long since vanished, and we wondered if we'd see it again... well, we have.  

The promotion? Free Dining!

Walt Disney World resort is offering guests who book a WDW vacation package a free dining plan for everyone in the traveling party! 

Disney+ Subscribers: Enjoy a FREE dining plan when you purchase a minimum non-discounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes a room at a select Disney Resort hotel and park tickets with a Park Hopper option—for arrivals most nights from July 1 to September 30, 2024.

And yep, we can make that 5 nights, 6 nights or beyond! 

But here's the one catch.. it's ONLY for Disney+ subscribers... believe me, it's worth a subscription to the incredible Disney+ service just for the amazing "Once Upon a Studio" animated short now streaming -- free dining is a vacation perk as well!  (once we have your WDW vacation package booked, your Upon a Star Travel Agent will need to submit your Disney+ login username or email -- password not required)

With this offer, you can discover the convenience and flexibility of dining plans—which include a certain number of meals and snacks during your stay. And with more than 200 participating dining locations, there’s something to delight nearly every taste!

With qualifying bookings, Select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa resort hotels will receive the regular Disney Dining Plan complementary.  Select moderate and value resort hotels will  receive the quick service plan complementary, with the option to upgrade to the regular Disney Dining Plan at a majorly reduced rate. 

The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. Offer excludes select room types. Advance package reservations are required. Theme park tickets are valid for admission beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of stay and ticket. Table service reservations are not guaranteed with dining plan, as some table service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase. Proof of Disney+ subscription required.

Talk to your favorite Upon a Star agent for details or to get your FREE Disney Dining Plan! 

--------------------------------------

Not interested in the dining plan at all, or booking a package where the dining plan isn't available to you? You can still save!

For most stays at Disney World resorts starting March 25th thru July 7, you can save up to 30%, and for stays beginning July 8th and running through October 3rd, you can save up to 35% off your room rate.

Percentage off is based on your resort of stay, with most deluxe resorts saving from 25% to 35% off regular priced room rate, most moderate resorts saving from 20% to 30% off regular priced room rate, and most deluxe resorts/rooms saving 15% to 25% off regular priced room rate. Exclusions apply, and some resorts/rooms will only save up to 10% -- talk to your favorite Upon a Star Travel Planner for details! 

Kids Play and Dine 50% Off in the New Year!

Kids (Ages 3 to 9) Play & Dine for 50% Off!

For arrivals most nights 3/3/24–3/24/24 and 4/7/24–6/30/24.

Save on a magical family vacation this spring! Children’s (ages 3 to 9) theme park tickets and dining plans are half off with the purchase of a non-discounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package for you and your children that includes a room at a select Disney Resort hotel, as well as theme park tickets and a dining plan.

STAY IN THE MAGIC

Experience the same legendary detail, service and storytelling found in Walt Disney World® Theme Parks when you book a stay at a Disney Resort hotel. From unique accommodations to distinctive dining options, themed rooms and more, Disney Resort hotels offer Guests a variety of options that exemplify the Disney Difference.

As a Guest, you’ll enjoy:

• Early Theme Park Entry: Stay in the magic at a Disney Resort hotel and enjoy 30 minutes early entry to any Theme Park every day! With early theme park entry, you can enjoy select attractions, shops and dining before regular hours. This benefit is offered on each day of your stay—in any park, subject to capacity. For early Theme Park entry, you’ll need Disney MagicMobile service or a Key to the World Card, as well as valid admission and a Theme park reservation for the same park on the same day.

• Extended Evening Theme Park Hours: When you stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort, you’ll enjoy extended evening hours on select nights in select Theme Parks. For extended evening hours, you’ll need Disney MagicMobile service or a Key to the World Card, as well as valid admission.

• Close Proximity to the Action: Enjoy the ease and convenience of getting around Walt Disney World Resort with fun transportation options. Zip about on the world-famous monorail, fly high on Disney Skyliner and cruise along serene waterways aboard a water taxi. Some of the Disney Resort hotels are even within walking distance of a Theme Park.

• Enchanting Amenities: Walt Disney World Resort hotels boast one-of-a-kind features that will immerse you in the worlds of classic Disney tales—including themed pools with slides, poolside activities, delicious dining experiences and much more.

Savings off the non-discounted price of a child’s Theme Park ticket and dining plan when purchasing the package. The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be in the same package. Child must stay in the room with adult. Offer excludes select room types. Theme Park tickets must be used within 7 days of Disney Resort hotel check-in. Dining plan excludes gratuities. Kids must order from children’s menu, if available. Some Table-Service restaurants may have limited or no availability at time of package purchase. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required.

Book Early and Save more on Rooms at Select Disney Resort Hotels in the New Year!

Book early—by December 15, 2023—and save more on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels in the new year!

• Save up to 25% on stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 9, 2024 through February 22, 2024—when you book by December 15, 2023

• Save up to 30% on stays most nights February 25, 2024 through March 24, 2024—when you book by December 15, 2023

When you stay in the magic at a Disney Resort hotel, you can enjoy the same legendary detail, storytelling and service found in the theme parks—along with an array of benefits.

Savings vary by date and resort — ask your Upon A Star Agent for details! Now is a great time to plan your winter getaway!

Stay, Play, and Dine at Disney World!

Now’s your chance to have a meal on Disney while staying - and playing - in the magic this winter!

Get a Disney Dining digital promo card with your minimum 4-night stay at qualifying Walt Disney World resorts, with minimum 4-day park ticket.

Offer valid on arrivals:

• Most nights October 27th to November 1st, 2023

• Most nights November 25th to November 29th, 2023

• Most nights December 9th to December 25th, 2023

• Most Sunday to Tuesday nights, January 9th to March 5th, 2024.

Here’s how it works!

With your Disney Deluxe Resort and Deluxe Villa stay, you can receive $200 per room, per night.

For your qualifying Disney Moderate Resort, you can get $120 per room, per night.

And with your Disney Value Resort, you’ll get $60 per room, per night.

This promotion excludes campsites, 3-bedroom villas, and Club Level rooms at Disney Deluxe resorts.

Each qualifying vacation package receives one digital Disney Dining promo card per room, valid for room-and-ticket packages that included up to $1000. If the package qualifies for more than $1000, more than one card will be given.

Make sure to contact your favorite Upon a Star Agent for more details and to book your Stay, Play, and Dine package!

And of course, the fine print…
The digital Disney Dining Promo Card cannot be combined with any other discount or offer, and is redeemable at select participating food and beverage locations at the Walt Disney World Resort. Locations that are unable to accept the Disney Dining Promo Card include, but are not limited to:

• 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

• The digital Disney Dining Promo Card will be sent to you via email after you check in at your Disney Resort hotel.

• The digital Disney Dining Promo Card is not valid after March 21, 2024.

• Issued by, and represents a legal obligation solely of, Disney Gift Card Services Inc.

• Lost, damaged or stolen cards may be replaced only if original proof-of-purchase receipt and complete card number are provided.

• For card balance inquiries, call (877) 650-4327.

• View terms and conditions.

The 2023 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!

On 25 select nights, Nov. 9-Dec. 22, this separately ticketed event will welcome guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom. Holiday magic is unwrapped with the return of festive favorites like the Christmas extravaganza stage show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration,” the sparkling spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” and the merry must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” Guests can also look forward to enjoying some of their favorite classic and thrill attractions, including TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, which will use a virtual queue* during the event.

There is SNOW MUCH to look forward to, starting November 9th… check out the details:

• For the first time in forever, guests will be able to join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the Snowgies in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom for “Frozen Holiday Surprise,” a brand new “Frozen”-inspired entertainment experience offered during regular park hours and during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting holiday addition. 

• Amidst the glowing holiday décor, a Merry Menagerie of winter animals returns to Animal Kingdom in the form of artisan-sculpted puppets.

• EPCOT will celebrate with the return of “Candlelight Processional” during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays beginning Nov. 24-Dec. 30. Other guest-favorite traditions like spirited storytellers, joyful musical acts and performers, and Holiday Kitchens will return to World Showcase this festive season.

• Hollywood Studios will return the Yuletide Projection Show on The Hollywood Tower Hotel this season. At Toy Story Land, you can once again spot Woody, Jessie and Buzz sporting their holiday best.

• At Disney Springs, the shopping will be amidst the dazzling décor and the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll will return. Visitors who stop in Town Center won’t believe what they see – magical snowfall in Central Florida!

• Guests can say hello to Santa Claus as he makes special appearances in all four parks, Disney Springs and even at a Disney Water Park, where you’ll find him dressed in his tropical holiday beachwear.

Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are limited and can be purchased online beginning July 6. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green can begin purchasing tickets NOW through your Upon a Star Travel Agent or with Disney. Ticket prices will range from $159-$199 per person. The party dates are:

Ticket prices (adult/children)

November 9, 10, 13, 14, 16 - $159/$149 (plus tax)
November 17 - $169/$159 (plus tax)
November 19, 21, 22 - $189/$179 (plus tax)
November 26, 28, 30 - $179/$169 (plus tax)
December 1, 3, 5, 7 - $179/$169 (plus tax)
December 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17 - $189/$179 (plus tax)
December 21, 22 - $199/$189 (plus tax)

To get your tickets or to book your package (with great possible savings, as Disney released some great offers for fall and Christmas!) contact your favorite Upon a Star Agent!

Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Or, at least, we are halfway there as Walt Disney World has given us two BIG announcements during this #HalfwayToTheHolidays week!

It’s a brand new holiday vibe at Hollywood Studios this holiday season, as Disney World is premiering DISNEY JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS! Sparking atmosphere, modern beats over classic seasonal tunes, crafted cocktails and delicious snacks, with nostalgia, glitz and glamour all the way around!

This is a new, separately ticketed event held 8:30 pm to 12:30 am on select nights from November 11th to December 20th, full of Holiday Hoopla and Christmas Cheer!

It’s a holiday vibe like you’ve never felt before. Sights of sparkling décor, sounds of modern beats over classic holiday songs, tastes of craft cocktails and decadent dishes. It’s nostalgic and it’s glitz and glam galore. This is Disney Jollywood Nights – a new, separately ticketed event from 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. on select nights Nov. 11 - Dec. 20, 2023.

 Experience holiday vibes throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios with entertainment areas inspired by different genres:

• What’s this? WHATS THIS??? The Hyperion Theater gets a Jollywood Nights makeover with a Nightmare Before Christmas sing-along!

• Encounter glitz and glamor galore in The Hollywood Brown Derby with a piano bar, with a singer and a piano performing jazz standards, in a speakeasy type atmosphere

• The Tip Top Club at the Tower of Terror Courtyard, featuring snacks with a ghostly band playing 1920s tunes

• Commissary Lane becomes an actual Latin street fair! What is more Christmasy than STREET TACOS! ALL IN.

• In the Theater of the Stars, Kermit & Piggy will be hosting a variety show featuring Belle and other special guests!

• Wrap up the night and enjoy the return of a festive favorite, “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” This Santa-sized nighttime spectacular is jam-packed with music, fireworks, special effects and dazzling state-of-the-art projections.

   Snap selfies with unique photo opportunities throughout the night:

• Pose with friends for holiday-themed Magic Shots and two new Disney PhotoPass experiences throughout the night. Complimentary digital downloads of your Disney PhotoPass photos captured during the event are included with the price of your ticket.**

• Meet Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the rest of the iconic gang in Animation Courtyard on a hot set with holiday props. Get into the spirit with your fave throwback friends like Powerline Max and Phineas and Ferb at Echo Lake and strike a pose with Edna Mode and Frozone in Pixar Place... with snow!!!

    Enjoy after-hours access to some of your favorite rides and coasters under the stars:

• After-hours access to some of your favorite rides and coasters like Slinky Dog Dash, Rock N’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and more. (Star Wars: Rise of Resistance will use virtual queue* during Disney Jollywood Nights.)

Disney Jollywood Nights is a limited-capacity holiday event. Guests of select WDW hotels, the Swan and Dolphin hotels, and Shades of Green can purchase tickets NOW!!

For all other guests, tickets may be purchased starting July 6…

Ticket prices are
November 11 and 18 - $159 (plus tax)
November 20 - $179 (plus tax)
November 27 and 29 - $159 (plus tax)
December 4, 6, 16, 18, 20 - $169 (plus tax)
Prices are same for everyone ages 3 and up.

Contact your favorite Upon a Star Agent for your tickets and your WDW Vacation Package!

Incredible Disney World Ticket Offer!!!

It’s been a long time since we’ve seen a ticket promotion from Disney World that made us step back and say “WHOA…”

Well, Disney just dropped a ticket promotion and all of us over here at Upon a Star Travel have stepped back and collectively said, “WHOA!”

You can now get 4 days of Magic across 4 theme parks in Disney World with the special 4-Park Magic Ticket… and you’ll only be paying $99 per day, plus tax - coming it at $396, plus tax!)

• The 4-Park Magic Ticket includes one admission to each of the 4 WDW Theme Parks - so you get one day at Magic Kingdom, one day at Animal Kingdom, one day at Epcot, one day at Hollywood Studios.

• There are no Theme Park Reservations required to use this ticket, but it is a base ticket, meaning you cannot use the ticket for two different parks in the same day (you can always leave a park and return to that same park though!)

• Tickets are valid for theme park admission from June 1 to September 29, 2024 - though there are two blockout date periods… July 1 to July 4 and September 1 to September 4, 2023, tickets are not valid for admission during these dates. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable, and exclude specially priced events and activities.

• Tickets cannot be included into new or existing vacation packages.

• Tickets expire within 7 days of first use, or on September 29, 2023, whichever happens first.

Tickets go on sale May 23, 2023!

Contact your favorite Upon a Star Travel Planner to get your tickets on May 23rd, and/or to book your WDW resort stay + your tickets!

FLORIDA RESIDENTS: Beginning May 16, 2023, Florida residents can purchase the Disney Summer Magic Ticket, which offers value and flexibility for their next adventure to Walt Disney World theme parks. Choose from a 4-day ticket for $58 per day plus tax ($229 total plus tax) or a 3-day ticket for $70 per day plus tax ($209 total plus tax)**.  With this ticket, advance theme park reservations are required and are subject to availability.

While these ticket designs were for the 50th, make sure to check out the NEW ticket designs out now! (Magic Bands
not included in promotion)

5 Reasons to Book Your 2024 Trip to WDW!!

As summer approaches, Disney traditionally releases prices and information for 2024 — and now we know that on May 31, 2023, we can get YOUR trip booked for the next year!

Along with the great news that 2024 pricing is around the corner, Disney had a few more surprises up their magical sleeve!

If you love a Mickey Waffle, you’ll be able to get it on the Disney Dining Plan!!

Here are five reasons to book your 2024 trip on May 31!

ONE… THE DISNEY DINING PLAN IS RETURNING IN 2024!

You’ve been asking for it and Disney has listened… the iconic and hugely popular dining plan is returning as a feature to add to 2024 Walt Disney World vacation packages! You’ll have your choice between the counter service plan and the traditional Disney Dining Plan, and can be added to any package that starts on January 9th, 2024, or beyond. Pricing and detail information coming soon.

TWO… SIMPLIFIED GENIE+ COMING IN 2024

Genie+ is a great service to help shorten lines at popular attractions in the parks, but admittedly, it can be a hassle to learn and sometimes navigate. Good news! While we have no specific information, Disney has announced they are working on ways to work with Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections BEFORE your park visit! Expect those details soon.

THREE… CONTINUED EXTENDED PARK HOURS THROUGH 2024

For on property guests, Disney World will continue early park entry each day, which will definitely help you get a jumpstart on the most popular attractions (and avoid those early lines!) Staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villas, you’ll continue to get extended evening hours on select dates at select parks through 2024. (Early theme park entry and extended evening hours require valid theme park admission and a Resort ID.)  

Wonder Twins, Activate… form of… MAGICAL AWESOME UPON A STAR AGENTS!!

FOUR… PARK PASS RESERVATIONS NO LONGER REQUIRED IN 2024!

Beginning with park days scheduled on January 9th, 2024, Disney will no longer require Park Pass Reservations! Meaning… you won’t have to decide 9 months in advance if you want to go to Epcot or Magic Kingdom on a random Tuesday! When using a “date-based” ticket, you just simply… go! For reference, date-based tickets are the standard ticket option we offer to guests. For other admission types, including non-dated tickets, theme park reservations may be required.

FIVE… GOOD-TO-GO DATES OFFERED IN 2024!

If you are an Annual Passholder or hold other specific types of WDW tickets, you may still be required to reserve park pass reservations to visit the WDW parks… but Disney World will offer select days on which our Annual Passholders (and Disney cast members!) may visit the parks with with no park reservation needed! These “Good-to-Go Days” will premiere and then roll out on an ongoing basis.

All of these reasons, plus Happily Ever After’s return, Disney resort free parking re-introduced, Tron Lightcycle/Run, the opening of Moana’s Journey of Water in Epcot (scheduled fall 2023), and so much more gives you plenty of reasons to get your trip booked to Walt Disney World for 2024. But it’s only May, and there are still almost 8 full months to fill with Disney magic.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO WAIT!!

While we cannot book 2024 packages until May 31st, 2023, you can ABSOLUTELY get your 2023 trip for late spring, summer, fall, or winter booked ASAP! Enjoy the Epcot festivals, the opening of Moana’s Journey of Water, all in Epcot, and both the Halloween and Christmas parties (both extra ticket events) in Magic Kingdom — and of course, everything that Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom (celebrating it’s 25th anniversary!) has to magically offer!

Contact your favorite Upon a Star Travel Agent for your quotes for 2023 and to get on the 2024 waiting list!

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Returns!

THIS IS HALLOWEEN THIS IS HALLOWEEN
HALFWAY TO HALLOWEEN
HALLOWEEN
HALLOWEEN!! 

It's #HalfwaytoHalloween, and what a great time to announce the dates for the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party returning to Magic Kingdom in Fall 2023!

Meet up with your favorite Disney characters dressed in their own Halloween costumes, hop on your favorite attractions with limited wait times, see the Sanderson Sisters return in the "Hocus Pocus Villain SPELLtacular", plus exclusive experiences like the iconic "Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade" and the "Disney's Not-So-Spooky-Spectacular" fireworks spectacular!

Oh... and the candy.  M&M's, Skittles, Snickers and so much more.  

ALL OF THE CANDY!

Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, the Swan & Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green can purchase their tickets starting April 27th, and tickets will be available to all guests starting May 2nd! 

Stay tuned for more surprises to come as we pass the #HalfwayToHalloween point! 

And call your favorite Upon a Star Travel Agent to book your fall package and to purchase your Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party tickets! 

The dates and prices are as follows:

• Friday 8/11 - Adults $149, children $139

• Tuesday 8/15 and Friday 8/18 - $109 / $99

• Tuesday 8/22 and Friday 8/25 - $109 / $99

• Tuesday 8/29 - $109 / $99

• Friday 9/1, Monday 9/4, Friday 9/8, Sunday 9/10 - $119 / $99

• Tuesday 9/12, Friday 9/15, Sunday 9/17 - $119 / $99

• Tuesday 9/19, Friday 9/22, Sunday 9/24 - $149 / $139

• Tuesday 9/26, Thursday 9/28, Friday 9/29, Sunday 10/1 - $149 / $139

• Tuesday 10/3, Thursday 10/5 - $169 / $159

• Friday 10/6 - $189 / $179

• Monday 10/9, Tuesday 10/10, Thursday 10/12 - $169 / $159

• Friday 10/13 - $189 / $179

• Sunday 10/15, Tuesday 10/17, Thursday 10/19 - $169 / $159

• Friday 10/20 - $189 / 179

• Sunday 10/22, Tuesday 10/24, Thursday 10/26 - $169 / $159

• Friday 10/27 - $189 / $179

• Sunday, 10/29, Tuesday 10/31, Wednesday 11/1  - $199 / $189

**child pricing applicable for children ages 3-9

Disney Cruise Line 2024 Summer Itineraries Announced!

Disney Cruise Line announced today the inaugural dates and select itineraries for its new island destination in The Bahamas, headlining a season full of new and guest-favorite itineraries around the world in summer 2024. Along with the first sailings to Lighthouse Point, families will be able to choose magical vacations to bucket-list destinations that include the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean.

Bookings open to the public on March 30, 2023. Clients that are Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club and select other affinity groups may take advantage of the following extended early booking windows:

• Platinum Castaway Club Members, Golden Oak and Club 33 Members: Monday, March 27, 2023

• Gold Castaway Club Members: Tuesday, March 28, 2023

• Silver Castaway Club Members, Disney Vacation Club and Adventure Insiders: Wednesday, March 29, 2023

• Bookings open to all Guests: Thursday, March 30, 2023

First Sailings to Lighthouse Point

In June 2024, Disney Cruise Line will debut its newest Bahamian destination on the island of Eleuthera at Lighthouse Point. Guests sailing aboard the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will discover a vibrant beach retreat designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.

A seven-night inaugural sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral, Florida, on June 8 will allow guests to be among the first to make a splash in the crystal-clear waters of this new destination at Lighthouse Point. This ultimate Disney Cruise Line island destination itinerary will feature two stops at Lighthouse Point and one day at Castaway Cay. On June 6, a three-night preview cruise on the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale will offer a sneak peek of Lighthouse Point with limited access to some areas.

Following the inaugural voyage, Lighthouse Point will be a featured port of call on select three-, four- and five-night sailings to The Bahamas and Caribbean on the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale. These itineraries will vary stops between Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, with five special departures including both Disney Cruise Line island destinations.

New European Destinations

Dreams will come to life for Disney Cruise Line guests in summer 2024 as the Disney Dream returns to premier European destinations in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, British Isles and popular locales in the Norwegian Fjords and Iceland. 

These sailings will feature a number of new ports of call, including Valencia, Spain; Haugesund, Norway; and Hamburg, Germany, along with three Mediterranean destinations that will return for the first time since 2014: Catania, Italy; Kusadasi, Turkey; and Valletta, Malta.

Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome) will range from five to 11 nights, while northern Europe and British Isles sailings will offer itineraries anywhere from three nights to one 12-night voyage that includes the Norwegian fjords, three days in Iceland and an overnight stay in Reykjavik.

Adventures in Alaska

Cruises to Alaska from Vancouver, Canada, will return on the Disney Wonder from May through September 2024, offering more chances for families to experience the natural splendor and adventure of “The Last Frontier” with five-, seven- and nine-night sailings. Majestic wildlife and stunning scenery in iconic places like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap will blend with Disney’s world-class entertainment, dining and guest service to create a family-friendly vacation that celebrates the spirit of Alaska both on land and on board.

Tropical Escapes to The Bahamas and Caribbean from Port Canaveral

The Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will travel to sun-kissed islands throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean in summer 2024. All sailings on these Port Canaveral-based ships will feature a visit to Castaway Cay, a picturesque private island oasis in The Bahamas that offers something for everyone in the family, from fun and relaxation to adventurous water activities.

The Disney Wish will feature three- and four-night Bahamian vacations, while the Disney Fantasy will sail to popular ports in the eastern and western Caribbean on seven-night cruises. One five-night Disney Fantasy voyage in July will take families to Nassau with two stops in Castaway Cay, while a special 10-night southern Caribbean sailing will give families another opportunity to visit Lighthouse Point with additional visits to the islands of Antigua, St. Lucia, Dominica, Tortola and Castaway Cay.

Ready to get out on the high seas? We would love to help!

2023 PLAN FOR VACATION DAY!!

Studies have shown that people are much more likely to use vacation days if a plan is made at the beginning of the year, and what better time to do it than the end of January! 

Beginning in 2017, the US Travel Association declared the final Tuesday of each January to be “PLAN YOUR VACATION DAY”, so let’s talk about YOUR plans!

“Vacation” seems like such a luxury (and in many cases, it is) but time away from your daily norm is hugely important – with family, with friends, even taking a solo trip!  It’s better for your mental health, time away will help you breathe a little easier, and it goes a long way to helping you de-stress and re-focus. 

Of course, your vacation might bring you some of the stress you were trying to avoid, and that’s where we come in.  At Upon a Star Travel and Concierge, we pride ourselves in taking the burden of planning off your shoulders, and we are happy to do as much (or as little) as you’d like us to do. 

Whether you are ready to take a ride on Big Thunder Mountain in Disney World, enjoy a fruity drink on a Jamaican beach, fly through Hogwart’s Castle at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World, or cruise through the waters of the Caribbean, the Pacific, Europe, Alaska, and even Antarctica, helping YOU make memories is what WE do best.  

And with many vacations, our fees are minimal and many times, complimentary! 

Imagine paying the exact same amount doing it all on your own versus getting a trip expert to help you put together a trip you’ll remember for a lifetime (or at least until you go on another trip soon after!)

And to celebrate 2023 Plan For Vacation Day, we have some special offers just for YOU! 

LET’S BOOK YOUR WALT DISNEY WORLD VACATION!! 

Book a qualifying vacation package at any Walt Disney World moderate resort and receive a $25 Disney Gift Card with your final documents before travel. 

Moderate resorts include: Caribbean Beach, Fort Wilderness Cabins and Campgrounds, Port Orleans Riverside, Port Orleans French Quarter, Coronado Springs, including Destino Tower 

Book a qualifying vacation package at any Walt Disney World deluxe resort and receive a $50 Disney Gift Card with your final documents before travel. 

Deluxe resorts include resorts and villas within the Disney Deluxe resort category on Walt Disney World property. Please ask your travel agent to confirm your resort choice.

**Qualifying Packages are minimum 4-night stay with minimum 3-day park ticket; can be combined with existing Disney promotions; unfortunately, military and Annual Passholder “room only” packages are not included**

LET’S BOOK YOUR DISNEYLAND VACATION!!

Book a minimum 4-night vacation package with minimum 3-day ticket at Disneyland Hotel, Grand Californian, or Disney’s Paradise Pier at Disneyland Resort and receive a $50 Disney Gift Card with your final documents before travel. 

LET’S BOOK YOUR GALACTIC STARCRUISER VOYAGE!!

Book a Walt Disney World Galactic Starcruiser vacation package and receive a $100 Disney Gift Card with your final documents before travel.

LET’S BOOK YOUR UNIVERSAL STUDIOS ORLANDO TRIP!!

Book a minimum 4-night stay with minimum 3-day ticket at any premier resort at Universal Studios Orlando and receive a $50 Universal Gift Card to be delivered with final documents before travel.  

(Premier resorts include Hard Rock Hotel, Loew’s Portofino Bay, and Loew’s Royal Pacific)

LET’S BOOK YOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE!!

Book an all-inclusive vacation to any one of dozens of locations from Cancun to Punta Cana and all in between, and receive a free upgrade on your airport transfer – you’ll go from sharing a shuttle with other families to having your own private shuttle! 

ALL Deposits must be made by February 1 to qualify for these special offers! 

Contact your Upon a Star Travel agent for details! Don’t have an Upon a Star Travel Agent? Email info@uponastartravel.com, and we’ll contact you back!

It’s time to PLAN YOUR VACATION and BUILD THOSE MEMORIES!!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Returns to Walt Disney World!

When we got the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party information a few months back, we were excited and hoped that Christmas news would be just around the corner...

Well... we've rounded that corner! We are Halfway to the Holidays and we now know Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is coming to the Magic Kingdom once again!  On 24 select nights, from November 8th to December 22, 2022, enjoy Christmas in the most Magical way possible with the return of our favorite holiday event! 

Ticket prices vary from $149 to $199 (based on night), and go on sale to the general public on July 7th... but Walt Disney World resort guests can purchase beginning June 30th!  And your favorite Upon a Star Travel Agent will be happy to take care of these for you! 

What can you expect at this most merry of magical Christmas nights?

• Mickey and his pals will take the stage at Cinderella Castle for "Mickey's Most Merriest Celebration" with nostalgic and modern medleys of holiday classics

• Minnie takes the spotlight above the castle in "Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks", with music, castle projections, and of course, lots of dazzling fireworks high in the sky.

• Get your spot along the parade route for "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade" starring Mickey, Minnie, dozens of your favorite familiar characters, and of course, Santa himself.

• Holiday makeovers take over some of your favorite attractions, as Space Mountain, Mad Tea Party, Monster's Inc Laugh Floor and more get Christmastime overlays. And the Jungle Cruise becomes the Jingle Cruise once again - more garland, more decor, and all the holiday jokes! 

• "A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas" holiday show hits the Rockettower Plaza Stage, Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe holds its own intergalactic dance party, and Disney Junior fans of all ages will love "Disney Junior Jingle Jam" over in Storybook Circus! 

And brand new this year, partygoers will find three new photo opportunities around the park in honor of the 50th Anniversary Celebration, and guests will receive a holiday themed 50th Anniversary commemorative keepsake! 

Tickets will be very limited per night, so contact your Upon a Star Agent for more details and to get your party ticket requests in!  

Event dates include:

November: 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 29
December: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22