What To Do on a Disney Down Day Part 4: Resort Fun!

So far, we’ve talked about mini golf, water parks, and Cirque du Soleil, but what if you really don’t want to leave your resort on your down day? I have ideas for that, too!

Fuentes del Morro Pool at Caribbean Beach Resort

The most obvious answer: POOL DAY!

Every Walt Disney World Resort Hotel has a pool. Each resort has more than one, so go find your pools! One is always designated as the main feature pool, but there are smaller (and often quieter) pools throughout each resort.

At the Deluxe Resorts, Deluxe Villas, and Moderate Resorts, you’ll find even more water fun like water slides, splash pads, and whirlpools. While the Value Resorts don’t have those amenities, they do have huge main feature pools!

Besides swimming, each resort also hosts pool or poolside games throughout the afternoon. Each pool has Recreation Hosts, Cast Members who run recreation and fun, so you may have Disney trivia, water relays, and more! Often there are ping pong tables, giant Jenga, giant Connect Four, giant chess, and other games nearby.

Movies Under the Stars: This is offered at every Walt Disney World resort! These are complimentary outdoor screenings of popular Disney films. Bring a blanket or a pool towel, find a spot, and settle in for some fun.

Campfires: Located at all Deluxe Resorts, Deluxe Villas, and Moderate Resorts, stop by for the complimentary campfire and a roaring good time! Bring or buy s’mores kits or marshmallows for extra fun!

Character Meal: This is such a great option for a down day, and there are many offered outside of the parks! For breakfast, you can visit Riviera Resort for Topolino’s, Contemporary Resort for Chef Mickey’s, Polynesian Village Resort for ‘Ohana, Grand Floridian Resort for 1900 Park Fare, or Beach Club Resort for Cape May Café. For character meal dinner, head over to Contemporary Resort for Chef Mickey’s, Grand Floridian for 1900 Park Fare, or Wilderness Lodge for Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White. (Not wanting a character meal? Great regular dining options available at all Deluxe Resorts, Villas, and most of the Moderate Resorts.)

Electrical Water Pageant: This water parade has been in continuous operation since Walt Disney World opened in 1971! It can be viewed in Seven Seas Lagoon from Wilderness Lodge, Fort Wilderness, Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, and Grand Floridian.

Arcade: An arcade is found at every resort! This could be a great option when the weather is hot and muggy (hello, Florida summer!) or rainy (also, hello, Florida summer!).

Recreation: Check your resort for other recreation opportunities like bike rentals, surrey bike rentals, tennis and volleyball courts, and fishing expeditions!

Playgrounds: While not offered at all resorts, these can be found at all of the Value Resorts and Moderate Resorts and a few Deluxe properties including Animal Kingdom Lodge and Kidani Village, Boardwalk Inn & Villas, Beach Club, Old Key West, and Saratoga Springs.

Other Unique Opportunities:

• Animal Kingdom Lodge: Book a Starlight Safari or just enjoy watching the animals! Cast Members are available to discuss the animals, and they often have unique African games and crafts available for anyone. You can also take a painting class here.

• Boardwalk Inn & Villas: Take a yoga class or learn to play pickleball! Do the Crescent Lake Wellness Challenge (register at Community Hall or Screen Door General Store) or Skyliner Rally Scavenger Hunt or just enjoy the Boardwalk Buskers Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings on the pier! You never know who might be there—juggler, magician, a magical hula-hooper, and more!

• Coronado Springs: Book Sangria University! Offered on Saturdays and Sundays, this is such a fun class and books up quickly! Colors of Coronado Painting Experience and Spanish Mosaic Art classes are also available.

• Fort Wilderness: Take an archery class, book a horse drawn carriage ride or a wagon ride, rent a canoe or a kayak, or book the Wilderness Back Trail Adventure on Segways. You can also do some crafts or book the gem mining experience! For more adventure, book a pony ride or a trail ride. End your day with Chip ‘n Dale’s Campfire Singalong with songs and smores and maybe some special furry friends. My absolute favorite thing to do here is to visit the Tri-Circle-D Ranch where you can see the Dragon Calliope and meet the horses! The stable is open 10am-5pm daily, and you can just walk through. You might see the horses preparing for a wagon ride, a trail ride, or maybe even see Cinderella’s white horses!

• Grand Floridian: Take advantage of your Memory Maker and pose with some Disney-themed props or do some Magic Shots! 9am-8pm daily. Hop on the monorail and make a full loop.

• Port Orleans Riverside & Port Orleans French Quarter: Book a horsedrawn carriage ride or ride the boats over to Disney Springs.

Ethan learning magic tricks at Boardwalk Inn.

A runDisney Marathon Q&A

Upon a Star Agent Cliff Anstey was able to assist his sister with her booking for the 2025 marathon in January. She shares her experience here and then answers some frequently asked questions for this article.

I will start by saying I am not a runner! If you see me running by, you should probably keep up because something is chasing me.  However, the runs at Disney looks really fun.  

Checking in and picking up my marathon gear!

Disney Marathon weekend runs every January, and goes Thursday through Sunday.  They have something for everyone. The 5K is an easy run for even the most novice of runners (or walkers).  Then there is the full marathon that runs on Sunday.  26.1 miles of cool morning Florida air. 

The marathon week schedule goes like this:

• Wednesday: You pick up your race packet

• Thursday:  The 5K

• Friday:  The 10K

• Saturday:  The Half-Marathon

• Sunday:  The Marathon

You can register and run any of the races you would like.  

Then there is the Dopey Run. This is another registered event in which you sign up to run all of the races. This is for those who run daily.  

(Cliff asked his followers on his social media pages for questions to ask his sister about her running experience - and here are the questions and her answers!)

What the heck were you thinking?

Oh, no, I wasn’t thinking. I was being the same impulsive person I have been my entire life!

 Did you dress up?

I wore one of six Disney running skirts I brought. It was not warm enough for me three of the four mornings. 

What was your favorite costume you saw on the course?

The guy that dressed as Cruella and had a pack of Dalmatians running with him. 

What did training entail?

I was supposed to train?  Mostly I was winging it.

What are your favorite sneakers to run in?

Topos

Does you listen to music or do you like silence as you run?

Both, I train with music. At Disney, I wanted the full experience so no ear buds.

If you listen to music, what’s on your running track?

Almost anything depending on my mood. A lot of classic rock!

 What happens if you aren't fast enough?

Don’t care! Part of the adventure. I am not fast!! 

Hold them up for the pictures - but wear with caution!
Those things are heavy!!!

How many medals do you get?

Six medals this time. 

Are there characters, and is it okay to stop and meet them (or keep running??)

Yes, I did not stop because I didn’t want to wait in line. Fun to see the characters!  Especially Pooh Bear and Chewbacca!

What if you only want to do one of the races and not all of them? Can you do that?

Certainly, but how could you pick just one?

How early do you get up every day for the races?

3 am for 5k, 10k and Half Marathon. 2:30 am for the Full Marathon. 

How does that corral thing work?

Huddling together as a crowd to stay warm and dry. Making new friends. Cheering on the corrals released before yours. And waiting… Worth every minute. 

 Did you go to the Parks after the Runs and were they crowded?

Went to the parks all four days, and they were not crowded. 

What advice would you give others who want to play in the parks after getting up early and running the races?

Have a plan. We did not, but it worked out and we had fun!

 What was the best part of the trip?

Traveling with my niece, the absolute magic of Disney, and running through the castle. 

What was the worst part of the trip?

Lines and sleep deprivation. 

Would you do it again?

Absolutely!  Can’t wait. 

Thanks to Cliff and his sister for sharing!

Registration for the January 2026 Disney Marathon Weekend begins March 4 for Club runDisney Gold and Platinum, and March 11th for general registration.

Upon a Star Agents are unable to register guests for the race, but it is highly recommended to book your travel package with resort and tickets as soon as possible — contact your favorite Upon a Star Travel Advisor today!

Mix, Mingle, and Master Sangria!

Sangria Tower with snacks!

Sangria University is held on select weekend days at Walt Disney World’s Coronado Springs Resort inside the Three Bridges Bar & Grill.  It starts about 1:30pm and runs for 2-2.5 hours.  The cost is $50-55 per person.  

During our visit on Sunday, December 8, we had Cast Member Gray as our Sangria University instructor.  Gray was a phenomenal instructor- funny, knowledgeable, and engaging.  You could really tell he had a passion for Sangria and loved sharing. 

While this would be a fun event to do with a group, for this day it was just my wife and I. They sat just the two of us together.  There were also tables of 2, 4, and 6.  The Three Bridges is the perfect setting for this as it overlooks Coronado Springs Resort grounds and water features.  The total number of people at the event was 30, but they can hold up to 60.

When you first sit down, they bring you a tree of four different Sangrias.  You are also served chips and guacamole.

The instructor then goes through each of the Sangrias and what they consist of.  Your Sangria tree includes one white, one rose, one red, and one sparkling! You can sample them at your own pace.  After an overview of what you are drinking, Gray then gave a full history on Sangria, where it began, and how it has evolved to the present day. 

About an hour or so into the "course," it’s time to make your own sangria.  The instructor comes around to each table and takes your order for your own creation helping make sure you pair flavors that would compliment each other.  Each party at your table can make their own with almost limitless possibilities.  There is a slight up-charge for certain liquors.

I made an Old Fashioned-style Sangria that had Spanish Red Wine, Makers Mark Bourbon, Triple Sec, and Orange Blossom Honey.  My wife made one using Cava sparkling Spanish white wine, Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, and blackberry puree. 

After you "graduate" from the class, they provide you with a diploma! So fancy! On the back of that diploma is a recipe with all the Sangrias you had for the event. I highly recommend this event if you are adventurous in your day drinking or even if you just love learning about history and want to enjoy a beautiful setting with friends. 

25 Reasons for Disney World in 2025!

If you can believe it, January is almost over! Less than a week remains in this first month of 2025… but that still leaves an entire year for YOU to make some memories at the Most Magical Place on Earth — Walt Disney World, with its four theme parks, two water parks, massive Disney Springs shopping and entertainment district, over 30 resort options and there is even mini-golf, regular golf, a sports area, and specialty corn dogs to boot!

So, if you need a reason or two to get your trip going, how about I give you 25?

Walt Disney World is known for it’s iconic attractions, from Magic Kingdom’s “…it’s a Small World” to the looming Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios, but if you haven’t taken a coaster ride in the dark, your first reason to visit Disney World is enjoying (1) Space Mountain as it celebrates 50 years of space magic!

Taking (2) Disney’s classic thrill rides on attractions like Tron, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Rise of the Resistance make the journey worth it. And coming later this year, a (3) completely reimagined Test Track opens in Epcot, with homage to the original, legendary World of Motion.

If thrill rides and coasters aren’t your cup of tea, though, don’t worry - there is plenty to do elsewhere, and plenty to be excited about… including (4) The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure has Ariel finally returning to Hollywood Studios! After many years of an empty stage, Ariel, Ursula, Prince Eric and more will take the stage via a new array of puppetry and special effects, starting later in 2025!

And if your ears perked up when I said “URSULA”, you may be a fan of the villains - which means you’ll love the upcoming (5) “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After”, a stage show featuring the aforementioned Sea Witch, along with Captain Hook, Maleficent, Gaston and many more of your favorite Evil’doers. Finally, over in Animal Kingdom, if you choose to make your WDW trip during the Holiday season, you can check out (6) Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, a 3D show premiering in the Tree of Life during Winter 2025!

Don’t forget, after many years of missing The Main Street Electrical Parade and SpectroMagic (RIP), Magic Kingdom will have a BRAND NEW nighttime parade in 2025!
(7) ”Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” will feature your favorite Disney friends on vibrant new floats, coming Summer 2025!

Make sure to see Dinosaur and The Boneyard before it’s THE END!

Of course with new attractions coming, we must (8) say goodbye to a few of our favorites — 2025 will be your last chance to experience some beloved attractions, including DINOSAUR (closing to make way for Tropical Americas), It’s Tough to be a Bug (giving way to Zootopia), MuppetVision3D (leading to Monsters Inc Land) and make sure you ride the (9) Rivers of America and visit Tom Sawyer Island one more time, as it will disappear for a new Cars themed area (MuppetVision*3D’s final day will be June 7th… no closing dates announced for any of the rest mentioned, but 2025 is expected for most, if not all)

If events and parties are your reasons for visiting, 2025 is better than ever! (10) The Epcot Festival of the Arts just kicked off and is running through February, your chance to see everything from the painted and sculpted art to Broadway style concerts… and of course, the food booths.

If the next few weeks are too soon, (11) Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival kicks off in March, running through the Spring, with incredible topiary displays, floral decor, warmer weather, the Eat to the Beat concert series… and of course, the food booths.

The fall will bring us (12) Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival, a celebration of the culinary arts with cooking demonstrations, fantastic concerts from your favorite artists, cool decor.. and not just food booths, but beverage booths as well!

And of course, (13) Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays, as the Christmas season covers Epcot (and Disney World as a whole), which is not to be missed. Don’t worry. Lots and lots of food booths.

The Holidays bring so much to enjoy at Disney World, including (14) Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, the annual Holiday party in Magic Kingdom, and (15) all of the resort holiday displays, like Grand Floridian’s Gingerbread House, the chocolate display in Contemporary, the chocolate carousel at Beach Club and a whole lot more.

Here’s to hoping that Jollywood Nights makes it’s return next Christmas!!!

And while we won’t know for sure, we all expect (16) Jollywood Nights to make it’s 3rd annual return to Hollywood Studios, which makes for one heck of a great Christmas party!

For the spookier Disney fans, back up a little bit in the year, and (17) Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party will return, running from select nights in August through Halloween night.

One of the appeals of going to the extra event parties like Very Merry Christmas, Jollywood Nights, or Not So Scary is the fact they are extra ticketed events - meaning they only sell a certain number of tickets to keep crowds low. Another opportunity for these low crowds throughout the year is (18) After Hours Events happening in Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios on select nights throughout the year. Enjoy access to the most popular rides and attractions AFTER the parks close, with minimal to no wait on just about everything!

For the runners out there, (19) runDisney events happen throughout 2025 as well — Mushu, Mulan, Olaf, Lady & the Tramp, and Sleeping Beauty’s three fairies adorn the recently announced Wine & Dine 1/2 Marathon medals - registration begins soon for the fall event!

Other things to look forward to in 2025 is the (20) Spaceship Earth Lounge opening up later this spring, as well as Magic Kingdom’s new spot, a (21) Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge opening up next to the famous ride!

And let’s be real, the (22) Disney merchandise is unbeatable, updating all the time, from spirit jerseys to Ear bands — for much of our Upon a Star team, its Loungeflys, though for me personally, it’s all the Disney button up shirts!) and every time we turn around, there is a (23) new popcorn bucket MUST HAVE.

So, let’s chat about your trip! Through much of 2025, your qualifying package will give you not only your first day of your trip at (24) Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach for FREE, with many of the dates through the Spring, you can get (25) FREE DINING with your package!

And do you want one more reason to visit Walt Disney World in 2025? (26) Working with your favorite Upon a Star Travel Advisor! Everyone on this team gives you personal service (“ConciEARge” service if you will… see what we did there?) with all the knowledge and skills to make your vacation package the most magical it could be - from a few days at Pop Century to a week or more at the Poly, and everything in between!

Upon a Star Travel & Concierge Receives Disney's Earmarked Gold Status Again!

At Upon a Star Travel & Concierge, we are thrilled to announce that Upon a Star Travel & Concierge has once again been named a Disney Earmarked Gold Agency! 🏆✨

Disney Earmarked Gold status is awarded to travel agencies that have demonstrated superior knowledge, commitment, and excellence in booking Disney vacations. Earning this status means that our team has consistently gone above and beyond to help our clients plan the most seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable Disney experiences possible.

For our clients, this status means you are working with a trusted, highly-qualified Disney vacation expert — someone who understands the magic of Disney and can provide personalized recommendations tailored to their needs and dreams. Whether you're dreaming of a trip to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or Aulani in Hawaii, sailing on Disney Cruise Line, or any other Disney destination, we have the insider knowledge, exclusive benefits, and personalized attention to make your experience truly unforgettable.

We couldn’t be more excited to continue bringing the magic of Disney to life for our amazing clients, and we can’t wait to help you plan your next Disney adventure! 🌟

Contact us today to start making your Disney dreams come true! 

Summer 2025 Walt Disney World Offers Available Now... Including FREE Dining!

What a great way to start out 2025 with a FREE Dining offer OR a room discount for summer 2025.

FIRST, FREE Dining!

Enjoy a FREE dining plan when you purchase a non-discounted minimum 3-night, 3-day Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes a room at a select Disney Resorts Collection hotel and a theme park ticket with a Park Hopper option—for arrivals most nights from:

• May 27 to June 26, 2025

• July 7 to August 6, 2025

What does that mean for you?

You may be eligible for FREE dining:

If you are visiting Walt Disney World beginning May 27 to June 26, 2025, and July 7-August 6, 2025, you have a regular package with at least a 3-night stay, AND you have at least 3-day park hopper tickets, you may be eligible for a free dining package.

Note that this package does require park hopper tickets. Guests staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort or at a Disney Deluxe Villa will receive the Disney Dining Plan for each guest. Those staying at a Moderate or Value Resort will receive the Quick Service Dining Plan for each guest.

SECOND, save up to 30% off rooms!

If you prefer not to have a dining plan or if you prefer to have base tickets, perhaps the better offer is the room only discount. Save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when you stay 5 consecutive nights or longer this summer. Plus, enjoy other savings for shorter stays.

This offer is valid for stays most nights from May 1 to September 30, 2025.

THIRD, Florida residents Book Early Discount to save up to 35%!

Florida residents, this is a great offer for you! Book by February 24, 2025, and save up to 35% on rooms for stays most nights from May 1 to July 31, 2025. Lower savings are available for bookings made after February 24.

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: 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows and 2-Bedroom Penthouses at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and Suites at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels.

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

Saratoga Springs Resort Review

Entrance to Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Invoking the ideals of horse racing in upstate New York, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa at Walt Disney World is a lovely villa property, part of the Disney Vacation Club. Consisting of studios as well as 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas, these are great options for larger parties or even those who just want an option that feels less like a hotel room and more like a home!

Stay in a Disney Deluxe Villa with just-like-home amenities like a kitchen, washer, dryer and separate bedrooms. 1- and 2-Bedroom Villas—as well as 3-Bedroom Treehouse Villas—have the following features:

• A full kitchen, so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa

• Spacious living and dining areas where your family can share quality time together, play games, and chill out,

• Separate bedrooms that offer space, privacy and tranquility – so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day

• A washer and dryer, so you can pack lightly and avoid airline baggage fees or just travel home with clean laundry!

Treehouse Villas also feature private decks and charcoal grills. These unique accommodations are elevated 10 feet off the ground and nestled amid lush forest—so you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of nature. Want to know more about Saratoga Springs Resort? Click here: Saratoga Springs Resort

On a recent trip, as a party of six, we stayed at Saratoga Springs in a 2-bedroom villa. This was only my second time staying here and my first time in a 2-bedroom villa at any property! We were in the Paddock area which was very convenient to Disney Springs and not too far to Congress Park where you can find the main pool, front desk, and dining. Paddock has its own lovely pool and a nearby bus stop.

We were on the fourth floor, and it was very quiet. We made use of the washer and dryer, and our party even spread out a bit to use the two Murphy bed options in the living room.

As with any Disney World property, there are some definitely pros and cons to this property. Remember these are just my personal opinion, so what I don’t love may not be a big deal to you at all!

I want to talk through a few of aspects I didn’t love first before ending with things I DID love! So, first, what I found to be the drawbacks of this property: 

Bus Stops… there’s a lot of bus stops! This wasn’t a big deal for us when going to the parks, but i was when returning from the parks. If I was to stay here again, I would likely rent a car or simply rely more on Uber or Lyft. After one trip where it took us nearly an hour to get to our villa from Magic Kingdom, I only used Lyft to return to the room! 

(Pro Tip: Use Lyft over Uber at this property! You can enter your specific section, and the driver will drop you right at the entrance to your building!)

Large Footprint: It’s a really spread out property. We were fortunate to be fairly near The Springs with the dining, front desk, shop and main pool, but some of the other sections would not have been at all convenient for dining purposes.

Buses only to the parks. That’s not really a negative, but with multiple bus stops, your bus could arrive at your stop already full or take a long time before even leaving the property to head to the parks.

OK…that’s not bad for negatives, huh? Next some pros!

Proximity to Disney Springs: This is a huge pro in my opinion. If you enjoy spending time at Disney Springs, you can’t get much closer! There’s a boat that will take you to the dock near Rainforest Cafe, but it’s also easy to walk if you’re in the Paddock or Congress Hall areas.

Villa Size & Amenities: If you enjoy cooking on your vacation, like to do breakfast in the room, or have a member of your part with allergies where you might need to store or prep some food, this is a great option. With a fully equipped kitchen, you can cook to your heart’s content—or simply store cold foods in your fridge, make a full pot of coffee, etc. There’s even a dishwasher! If you’re traveling with little people who are messy (or adults who are messy!) or like to travel home with clean laundry, the in room washer and dryer are lovely. These are small stackable units, so you can’t do huge loads, but laundry detergent and a laundry basket is included!

Dining: There are both a quick service restaurant, Artist Palette, and a table service restaurant, Turf Club, here. We only had an opportunity to eat at Artist Palette one day for lunch, but I was very impressed with the meal quality. Unlike some other locations, you order your meal at the register and it’s prepared fresh. A Cast Member brought the meal to our table. My chicken and rice dish was absolutely delicious!

Pools: There are so many pools here! The main feature pool is in The Springs area near the dining and front desk. This is where you’ll find the pool entertainment like games and such. The other pools are considered quiet pools, but they were still rather sizable lovely pools—some with slides!

Would I stay here again? Absolutely! One member of our party had a car, and it made a huge difference to our days so I’d absolutely suggest a car or utilizing ride share (Lyft in particular). Even from the check in area to your villa could be a long-haul; they do have some golf carts, and they will happily deliver your luggage for you if you arrive without a personal or rental vehicle.

All the New WDW News You Need to Know!

What a Disney news day!!

In a matter of hours yesterday, Disney World released four major announcements... and here is what you need to know!

SPACE 220!

Epcot's newest dining experience had a known opening date -- September 20th -- but today, Disney released more details! Space 220 will offer a two course lunch, featuring dishes like salads, calamari, steaks, and seafood, then a three course dinner with even more delicious servings, including duck! Plus, Supernova Sweets, like mousse, cheesecake, and toffee cake, plus many spirits, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Reservations begin on September 20th, for dining starting September 27th, but you can get in faster than that -- walk-ups to be accepted September 20th thru September 26th!

THE CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL!!
The beloved show is returning and is sure to be a highlight of the International Festival of the Holidays in Epcot, beginning November 26 and running through December 30. This magnificent production will once again grace the America Gardens Theatre with a live orchestra, cast choir, and celebrity narrator retelling the traditional Christmas story in spectacular and heartwarming fashion.Narrators are still being determined, and the choir will be entirely of Cast Members, so stay tuned for details as soon as they are announced!!!

FINDING NEMO: THE MUSICAL GETS REIMAGINED!!

There was a frightening rumor around that Animal Kingdom's iconic "Finding Nemo: The Musical" was going to go away forever... but, Disney came to the rescue to tell us ,"No! It's coming back, we promise!" The awesome stage show will get a reimagining, and will debut sometime later!

EPCOT FIREWORKS DINING PACKAGES!!

You can savor a delicious dinner on a lakefront patio while you enjoy incredible views of Harmonious, the newest fireworks spectacular! You can enjoy this dining package at either Rose & Crown or Spice Road Table, both located in Epcot's World Showcase. The Rose & Crown pre-fixe dining package includes an appetizer, entree, dessert platter, and unlimited beverages, and is $89 per adult (10 and over) and $39 (kids 3-9), tax and gratuity not included.

The Spice Road Table dining package includes two small plates, dessert platter, and unlimited beverages, is $72 per person (10 and over) and $31 per child (ages 3-9), and does not include tax & gratuity.

Both packages available for booking online on September 23rd, and will debut with the premiere of Epcot Harmonious on October 1st

And finally... DISNEY ENCHANTMENT FIREWORKS PARTIES!!!

And THREE, count 'em THREE different ways to enjoy special seating while enjoying the Disney Enchantment fireworks! All parties begin October 3rd, 2021, and reservations available beginning September 17th, 2021

DISNEY ENCHANTMENT PRE-PARTY

Sweeten your evening at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park with 50th anniversary-themed desserts prepared by our pastry chef, a variety of cheeses and beverages, with selections of beer and wine included. Then, before the show begins, Cast Members will escort you to a reserved standing viewing location in one of the plaza gardens with prime viewing of Disney Enchantment. $99 per adult (ages 10 and up), $59 per child (ages 3 to 9).

DISNEY ENCHANTMENT TREATS & SEATS

After a day of Magic Kingdom Park fun, enjoy 50th anniversary-themed desserts prepared by our pastry chef, a variety of cheeses and beverages, with selections of beer and wine included. Experience the fireworks views from the comfort of dedicated reserved seating at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. $114 per adult (ages 10 and up), $69 per child (ages 3 to 9).

DISNEY ENCHANTMENT AFTER-PARTY

Like the Disney Enchantment Pre-Party, this experience includes reserved standing viewing of Disney Enchantment in one of the plaza gardens. After taking in the sights and sounds of the spectacular, visit Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant for a spread of 50th anniversary-themed desserts prepared by our pastry chef, a variety of cheeses and beverages, with selections of beer and wine included. $99 per adult (ages 10 and up), $59 per child (ages 3 to 9).

For these events and experiences, plus anything else you need, make sure you call on your favorite Upon a Star Travel magical travel planner at Info@uponastartravel.com

New Special Package Coming from the Walt Disney World® Resort!

Walt Disney World® Resort is offering a special “happy new year” gift to those planning 2021 vacations at The Most Magical Place on Earth. Available to book beginning Jan. 5, 2021, Guests buying non-discounted four-night/three-day room and ticket packages at select Disney Resort hotels for arrivals most nights Jan. 8, 2021, through Sept. 25, 2021, will receive an additional two days of theme park tickets!

From pleasant Central Florida temperatures to the return of the guest-favorite Park Hopper option (available as an add-on purchase), 2021 promises plenty of fun at Walt Disney World theme parks:

• The Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts debuts Jan. 8 and runs through Feb. 22, inviting guests to experience an expansive selection of visual, performance and culinary arts.

• Disney’s Hollywood Studios brings guests inside the cartoon world in Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, to a galaxy far, far away in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and offers the chance to play with Woody, Buzz Lightyear and their pals in Toy Story Land.

• Cinderella Castle features a royal new look at Magic Kingdom Park, welcoming guests for the perfect portrait as they seek out classic attractions.

• At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests can explore Pandora – The World of Avatar, an immersive land featuring massive floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and unbelievable experiences including Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey.

• Guests will also discover new character encounters throughout The Most Magical Place on Earth, as favorite Disney friends explore all four theme parks and Disney Resort hotels.

You can also check out other great offers for Walt Disney World visits, including savings of up to 35 percent off rooms at select Disney Resort hotels.  If you are already booked with us, we will be checking on your reservations to apply this new offer! If you haven’t yet booked for 2021, now is a great time! Contact your Upon A Star Agent today!

Attractions and Entertainment Announced for the Walt Disney World Reopening!

As we eagerly anticipate the reopening of the Disney Parks, we are beginning to get information about how things will look upon reopening. Today’s announcement made us happy!

Most attractions will be available at each park – for example, live your adventure at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with attractions like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. At Magic Kingdom Park, classics such as Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean are waiting to welcome guests with thrilling adventures for the whole family. Time travelers, take note that the iconic Spaceship Earth attraction at EPCOT will also continue to be available in its current state while we pause on its planned refurbishment, along with other favorite attractions like Soarin’ Around the World, Frozen Ever After and Test Track presented by Chevrolet. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, the magic of nature awaits with Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest - Legend of the Forbidden Mountain and Avatar Flight of Passage.  

If you are hoping to see some familiar friends or take in the tunes of treasured performers, you're in luck! The characters will appear in new and different ways that bring a smile to your face while also being mindful of physical distancing. From special cavalcades down the Magic Kingdom Park parade route and friends sailing the waterways of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, to processions along the World Showcase promenade at EPCOT and motorcades on Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Hollywood Boulevard, each area will come to life throughout the day. You never know when a party of your pals may come by, so be prepared for plenty of surprises! 

For example, after rocketing through space in Tomorrowland guests might see that famous Space Ranger, Buzz Lightyear; or discover a captive Captain Jack Sparrow as they traverse the Castillo del Morro on their way to Pirates of the Caribbean. Guests could cross paths with Queen Anna and Elsa as they venture “into the unknown” on a journey around World Showcase at EPCOT or spy members of the Resistance hiding out from the First Order throughout Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu. 

All of the “Stars” here at Upon A Star can’t wait to see what this looks like. Many of us will be in the parks for the official reopening - so be sure to follow us closely!

Much News from the Walt Disney World® Resort!

As we have eagerly awaited the park reopening, there have been a lot of rumors and speculation about what the new Park Pass system will look like. We are happy to say that things are progressing quickly, and that system is about to go online! In fact, this will happen Monday, June 22!

To manage attendance during this reopening period, there will be a new Disney Park Pass system. During this time, all guests with a ticket or Annual Pass will be required to make a reservation in advance for each park entry, using the new online tool.

Here are a few important details to know about this new system:

• Each guest will need a My Disney Experience account, as this is where their Walt Disney World Resort plans are stored and managed.

• You'll also need a valid theme park ticket or Annual Pass that’s linked to your My Disney Experience account.

• If you have a Disney Resort hotel reservation, be sure it is linked into your My Disney Experience account beforehand, as well.

Good news for Upon A Star clients! Your agent has already verified that everything is linked into your account, and/or reached out to ensure you have linked everything in, so you are good to go!

Once you’ve logged into your My Disney Experience account and linked your ticket/resort reservation, you’ll have access to a calendar of available reservation dates for each theme park. You will be required to make a park reservation for each date of their visit. Families and friends can link their tickets together and look to arrange theme park entries at the same time. If you are an Upon A Star client, your agent will be in touch with more detail about this very soon.

Please note, park reservations are limited in number and subject to availability. Availability can change until the reservation is finalized. At this time, guests will be able to select one park per day; visiting more than one park per day will be temporarily unavailable upon the reopening of the theme parks due to attendance limitations.

Much more to follow - stay tuned!

Great News for Festival Fans!

As the reopening of Disney Parks rapidly approaches, much thought is being given to the health and well-being of Cast Members and Guests. In light of that, some adjustments have been made to the Fall Events we know and love.

One staple of the fall season at the Walt Disney World ® Resort is the annual EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. We are SO excited that this experience will still be part of our time at the parks! “A Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival” will be debuting along with Epcot’s July 15 re-opening!

This new take on the foodie festival will debut July 15 and continue through the fall, offering over 20 signature global marketplaces like Hawaii, Hops & Barley, and Islands of the Caribbean, spaced out around the park. The best part? This is a mash-up of two of our faves! Flower & Garden meets Food & Wine! Flower & Garden merchandise (available immediately) will be side-by-side with Food & Wine Merchandise (later on in the season). For scavenger hunt fans, Remy’s Ratatouille Hide and Squeak scavenger hunt returns.

Although the popular musical acts during the “Eat to the Beat Concert Series” will not occur this year to allow for proper physical distancing, there will be plenty of music to enjoy at America Gardens Theatre with local EPCOT entertainment such as Mariachi Cobre, the JAMMitors and more. These fan favorites will spread out their performances throughout the day, giving audiences more options to enjoy them. 

We here at Upon A Star are so excited to see this mash-up in person!

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Update for 2020

This evening, Walt Disney World ® announced that the popular Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a staple event, is being cancelled this year. Many of its hallmarks – stage shows, parades and fireworks – are unable to take place in this new, unprecedented environment. With that in mind, for the safety of Cast Members and guests, the difficult decision was made to cancel the event for this year. Additionally, Disney H2O Glow Nights, the nighttime special ticket event at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, will not take place for the remainder of 2020. Guests who have already bought tickets to these events will be assisted with refunds over the coming weeks. 

There is still uncertainty around Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, but we will be sure to update you as we hear more information in the coming weeks.

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets on Sale!

It’s the most “spook-tacular” time of the year, and you can celebrate it at Walt Disney World® at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party!

This annual event features ghoulishly yummy treats, a fun parade, amazing fireworks, special character greets, and oh yeah - CANDY! Fistfuls of it! Contact your Star Agent today to purchase these event tickets. Available dates are:

August: 13, 18, 21, 25, 28
September: 1, 4, 7, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29
October: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
November: 1

This popular event can sell out, so purchase tickets while they last!

Special Offers from Walt Disney World® this Summer!

This summer, stay in the magic at Walt Disney World Resort with this great room offer!

Save up to 25% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels, valid for stays most nights May 28 through August 28, 2019 when you book through August 28, 2019.

As an extra bonus for arrivals May 28 to June 30, 2019, you will receive a Disney Gift Card at check-in—so you can enjoy more magic during your stay! The value of the Disney Gift Card will vary based on Resort Category and length of stay:

• Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts: $25 per room per night

• Disney Deluxe Resorts: $20 per room per night

• Disney Moderate Resorts: $15 per room per night

• Disney Value Resorts: $10 per room per night

Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

Or you can enjoy a Tempting Meal Offer!

This summer, enjoy a little extra flavor during a fun-filled stay that's sure to delight little ones and grown-ups alike.

You can receive a FREE meal per person (ages 3 and up), per night at a select Walt Disney World Resort quick-service dining location when you purchase a non-discounted 4-night/5-day room and theme park ticket package at select Disney Moderate and Value Resort hotels.

Offer valid for arrivals most nights from May 28 through August 21, 2019.

Book through June 30, 2019.

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. Advance reservations are required. Each quick-service meal includes one entrée and one non-alcoholic beverage (or, if age 21 or over, one beer, wine or cocktail). Ask about packages of other lengths of stay.

Important Details

• Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

• Offer excludes Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney's All-Star Movies Resort and The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort.

• Children ages 3 to 9 must choose from the children's menu, if available.

• Most beer, wine and cocktails included. Some exceptions apply. Must present valid ID to be served alcoholic beverages. May only be redeemed with the quick-service meal.

• Gratuities are not included.

May the Force Be With You!

Disneyland Park opening date: May 31, 2019

Disney's Hollywood Studios opening date: August 29, 2019

At last! The day is here! We now have some details for the much anticipated opening of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge!

On opening day for phase one, your Clients will be able to live your own Star Wars story and take the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, sample amazing galactic food and beverages, explore an intriguing collection of merchant shops and more.

And for phase two, opening later this year, will be Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the most ambitious, immersive and advanced attraction ever imagined that will put guests in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance and will blur the lines between fantasy and reality.  In light of tremendous demand, Disney made the decision to open the land in phases to allow Guests to sooner enjoy the one-of-a-kind experiences that make Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge so spectacular.

Guests planning to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park between May 31 and June 23, 2019 will need valid theme park admission and will be required to make a no-cost reservation, subject to availability, to access the land. Information on how to make a reservation will be available at a later date. Guests staying at one of the three DisneylandResort hotels during these dates will receive a designated reservation to access Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge during their stay (one reservation per registered guest); valid theme park admission is required.

A reservation will not be offered or required to experience Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at the Walt Disney World® Resort. And you should know that valid theme park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is required to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge after its opening on August 29, 2019. Capacity is limited. Additionally, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be open during Extra Magic Hours. During Extra Magic Hours Guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can spend extra time at Disney’s Hollywood Studios enjoying select attractions. Details will also be available at a later date.

Contact your Upon a Star Agent to see this immersive land for yourself!

See it you must!

Coming soon! Ultimate Disney Christmas Time Package!

It’s back! The Walt Disney World ® Resort is once again offering the “Ultimate Christmas Time Package” for guests traveling December 17-22. Bookable beginning October 22, this amazing package includes a 5-night stay at a Moderate, Deluxe, or Deluxe Villa property, and it also includes a 4-day Park Hopper pass. In addition, guests will get to experience some amazing, unique experiences, including:

• Exclusive Nighttime Access to Toy Story Land on Dec. 17 – Spend time at Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® enjoying Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers, and Toy Story Mania. The land will celebrate its first holiday season with special décor Guests can’t miss.

• Celebrate the Season at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on Dec. 18 – Ring in the holiday season with a ticket to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom® Park

• Exclusive Nighttime Access to Select Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Park Attractions on Dec. 19 – Enjoy exclusive nighttime access to Avatar Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey, Expedition Everest®, and DINOSAUR – plus, an exclusive showing of Rivers of Light.

• Exclusive Early Morning Access to Shopping at World of Disney Store & Disney Springs® Christmas Tree Trail Experience on Dec. 20 – Shop at World of Disney store at Disney Springs, and visit this year’s Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail and enjoy hot chocolate and cotton candy.

• Enjoy an Exclusive Holiday Themed Buffet Dinner Event at Epcot on Dec. 21 – Enjoy a holiday-themed buffet dinner event in World ShowPlace Events Pavilion.

More information and details will be available when booking begins October 22. If you’re interested in all of these experiences for an unbelievable price, contact your Upon A Star Expert today!

Memory Maker

Don’t you love those silly pictures taken on the rides, or can you stare of that precious picture
over and over of your kids meeting Mickey for the first time?

Disney offers a magical addition to your package called “Memory Maker” that captures all of
those moments to relive over and over again.

One question that all Upon A Star Agents get asked about often is, “What is Memory Maker
and is it worth it?” For those of you who have never been, or who haven't been in sometime,
Memory Maker is essentially an enhanced version of the PhotoPass service.

Memory Maker includes every picture that is taken in the park as a digital download. This is
much more convenient than the old PhotoPass CD -- especially since many newer computers
don't even have CD/DVD drives as a standard option. Now when we say every picture, we mean
every picture -- even the on-ride photos! We know where every on-ride camera is, and usually
plan to do something funny when we know a photo is going to be snapped.

Normally, we would never buy these photos after stepping off of the ride, though, opting to
spend our money on other souvenirs; but with Memory Maker, we have the luxury of reliving
each and every funny moment.

There are also lots of photo opportunities as you walk around each park. Go ahead snap that
picture in front of Cinderella Castle, or over by the Epcot Spaceship Earth icon, even below the
Hollywood Tower of Terror, or in front of the Tree of Life. There are so many photo ops to be
had.

Don’t forget to ask about extra magic shots! The fun shows up when you look at the photos on
your My Disney Experience account. There are also amazing on-ride videos!

When you pre-purchase Memory Maker at least 3 days before you arrive, you only pay $169 (as of the date of this post) and you could end up with 100s of photos to share. What a great way to create memories with your family!

Contact your Upon A Star Agent for more information about Memory Maker and how to add it to your Walt Disney World Resort package!

Co-authored by Valerie Robbins & Patti Stewart

Dining at Maria and Enzo's

If you've followed along on any Upon A Star adventures or social media accounts, you probably know that Disney Springs is a rapidly changing and rapidly growing place! In fact, it was recently listed in a travel blog as one of the top 20 places to visit -- and I couldn't agree more!

On our recent trip in January, Brady & I ventured with our friends down to Disney Springs several times - after all, a foodie's gotta eat!

Maria and Enzo's is one of the newest eateries. It's themed - stick with me here - like an airport! The back story is that Maria and Enzo had a small bakery in the airport, but when it closed, they converted the whole thing into a dream restaurant (with the help of the owner of the Edison next door - but that's another blog post!). 

As you might imagine, this restaurant serves Italian food. The views are fantastic -- overlooking the water -- and the food I had was wonderful.  I loved the whole look and feel. There were travel & aviation posters lining the walls, and the room had an open and airy feel.

In addition to the main seating area, there is also a "First Class Lounge". There are no outside views, but it does have tablecloths! Due to the diners, i couldn't snag a picture of those tables.

But let's talk about the real star here - the FOOD.  I love Italian food! And I really enjoyed everything! The menu is somewhat limited, but very good. The first picture was our appetizer, the Arancini di Carne (fried rice stuffed with meat ragù, peas and mozzerella).  For my entree, I had the Busiate con Granchio (spiral pasta with lump crab meat) -- it tasted fresh and was so delicious! Brady had the Rigatoni, and our friends had the Spaghetti. Desserts were the Cannoli and the Sicilian Ricotta layered sponge cake.

All four of us were impressed with our food - and with our server! Martina was amazing - be sure to request her table when you go!

In terms of pricing, you are definitely going to pay over $20 per entree. Disney Dining Plans are not yet accepted; but for me, I don't mind paying for a great meal every now and again.

Want to try it for yourself? Let your Upon A Star agent know that Maria and Enzo's is a must on your next trip -- we will set it all up for you. 

Buon Apetito!