Foodie Guide to Epcot International Festival of the Holidays 2019

The Epcot® International Festival of the Holidays Presented by AdventHealth is BACK! Celebrating joyous holiday traditions from around the globe, this year’s festival is presented by AdventHealth and runs Nov. 29 through Dec. 30, 2019 and features a variety of yuletide decorations, flavors, family-friendly activities, and of course, the wondrous “Candlelight Processional.”

The official Holiday Cookie Stroll is also returning this year with yummy cookies galore! You can purchase any five cookies from any of the official cookie stroll locations noted in their Passport, making sure to collect a matching stamp for each cookie purchased. Once they’ve collected 5 stamps, bring the stamped Passport to Holiday Sweets & Treats for a complimentary completer cookie!  This activity is great for the kids, and can be completed at your leisure. They can even bring back your stamped Passport to Epcot at any time during the festival to complete their stroll. And what’s more, there’s a variety of new cookies for to enjoy this year!

Here's a closer look at all the yummy details of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays.

GF indicates “Gluten/Wheat Friendly” items

KA indicates Kid-approved items.

Feast of the Three Kings (Near the Mexico Pavilion):

Food Items:

• Pastelón: Sofrito-marinated Beef with Sweet Plantains and Olives (GF)

• Queso Fresco-stuffed Arepa topped with Shrimp, Crushed Avocado Aji and Tomato Sauce (GF)

• Arepas topped with Melted Queso Fresco (GF, KA)

• Tres Leches Rice Pudding with Pumpkin Seeds (GF)

• Chocolate Crinkle Cookie

Beverages:

• Coquito: Tropical Eggnog (non-alcoholic, KA)

• M.I.A. Beer Company Tres Reyes Mango Golden, Doral, FL

• Coquito: Tropical Eggnog with a Bacardi Gold Dark Rum Floater

Holiday Sweets & Treats (Promenade Refreshments):

Food Items:

• Peppermint Sundae: Chocolate Ice Cream, Whipped Cream, and Peppermint Candy (GF, KA)

• Santa Mickey Sugar Cookie

Beverages:

• Hot Cocoa (non-alcoholic, KA)

• Chocolate Peppermint Shake featuring Twinings Peppermint Cheer Tea (non-alcoholic)

• Shipyard Eggnog White Porter, Clearwater, FL

• Hot Cocoa with Assorted Cordials (Baileys Irish Cream, Frangelico Liqueur or Fireball Cinnamon Whisky)

• Chocolate Peppermint Shake featuring Twinings Peppermint Cheer Tea and Whipped Cream Vodka

L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen (Between Morocco and France):

Food Items:

• Pastrami on Rye with House-made Pickles and Deli Mustard

• Smoked Salmon Potato Latke

• Potato Latkes with Sour Cream (KA)

• Sufganiyot: Mini Jelly-filled Donuts

• Black and White Cookie

Beverages:

• Egg Cream: Milk, Chocolate Syrup and Seltzer (non-alcoholic)

• Shmaltz Brewing Company Chanukah Hanukkah Pass the Beer, Clifton Park, NY

• Blue Cosmo Cocktail

Refreshment Port (Near the Canada Pavilion):

Food Items:

• Turkey Poutine: French Fries with Turkey Gravy, Cranberry Relish, and Crispy Onions

Beverage Items:

• T.G. Lee Eggnog (non-alcoholic)

• T.G. Lee Eggnog with Spiced Rum

These are just some of the tasty treat available at the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays!

Want to check it out in person?

Contact us HERE today!

Foodie Guide to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2019

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party starts this week at Magic Kingdom® Park. This special ticketed event occurs on select nights throughout November and December and features exclusive food and beverage offerings, special entertainment and character greetings, festive dance parties, complimentary holiday cookies throughout the park, and more. This year’s party begins on Nov. 8, 2019, and this Foodie Guide contains all of the delicious info you need to know!

And of course, you can always enhance your festive experience with two special add-ons this year: Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party (with reserved viewing for the holiday parade) and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party (with either Tomorrowland Terrace or Plaza Garden fireworks viewing). Both of these special events offer wonderful buffets of holiday eats and treats as well as a place to hang out, relax, and watch favorite holiday time entertainment. Reservations are available through Disneyworld.com.

Now, on to the eats and treats! As always, our incredible Magic Kingdom chefs have outdone themselves with this year’s assortment. And in addition to the party-exclusive treats listed below, there are also many items available all day, every day! 

Olaf’s Frozen Hot Chocolate Cake (Available Daily at Main Street Bakery) – Gluten-friendly chocolate cake layered with chocolate crispy pearls, chocolate panna cotta, and marshmallow fluff!

Snowflake Brownie (Available Daily at Casey’s Corner) – Chocolate brownie decorated with sugar snowflakes and icing

Holiday Mickey Cinnamon Roll (Available Daily at Main Street Bakery) – A Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll garnished with red and green icing and a white chocolate Mickey Santa hat!

Carved Turkey Sandwich (Party Exclusive, Available at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café) – Oven-roasted turkey with Applewood smoked bacon, smoked gouda, chipotle garlic aïoli, lettuce, and tomato on a roll.

Christmas Cookie Milkshake (Available Daily at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies) – Cookie butter milkshake topped with whipped cream and a Mickey marshmallow straw

Christmas Cookie Sundae (Available Daily at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies) – Cookie butter soft-serve topped with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, sprinkles, and a white chocolate piece

Gaston’s Cheese Dip (Party Exclusive, Available at Gaston’s Tavern) – Beer cheese dip with smoked bacon bits served with breadstick antlers

An Orange Bird Christmas (Party Exclusive, Available at Sunshine Tree Terrace) – Orange-scented white chocolate mousse filled with orange curd with a citrus almond cream cake, buttercream leaves, and a white chocolate piece

Cherry & Pistachio Float (Available Daily at Aloha Isle) – Cherry and pistachio swirl soft-serve served over cold hot chocolate

Kakamora Float (Party Exclusive, Available at Aloha Isle) – Coconut soft-serve served on top of pineapple juice and non-alcoholic blue curaçao syrup topped with a chocolate Kakamora cake pop

Santa Mickey Waffle Sundae (Available Daily at Sleepy Hollow) – Red velvet waffle topped with mint-chip ice cream, seasonal sprinkles, chocolate sauce, and peppermint powder

There’s also an array of complimentary goodies that your Clients won’t want to miss out on (included in the price of your Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party ticket). Alternative healthy and allergy-friendly goodies are also available upon request.

Complimentary Goodies

• Pinocchio Village Haus: Snickerdoodle Cookie, Hot Chocolate, and Fanta

• Storybook Snacks Cart: Snowman Pretzel

• Miner’s Cove: Peppermint Cookie

• Friar’s Nook: Chocolate Chip Cookie

• Lunching Pad: Ginger Molasses Cookie and Apple Cider

• Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café: Peppermint Cookie, Hot Chocolate, and Apple Cider

• Jungle Cruise: Ginger Molasses Cookie

• Tortuga Tavern: Snowman Pretzel and Fanta

• Golden Oak Outpost: Snickerdoodle Cookie

• Diamond Horseshoe: Chocolate Chip Cookie and Eggnog

Remember, unless otherwise noted, all of these items are exclusive to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights Nov. 8 – Dec. 22, 2019. And be sure to check out the My Disney Experience app to mobile order meals and snacks on demand, pay in advance, and skip the line at select quick-service food and beverage locations. It’s the best way for your Clients to maximize your time in the park!

Ready to plan your next Walt Disney World Vacation?

Contact us HERE today!!

Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party

We're so excited to share that Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party is returning this year to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom® Park! And reservations start today!

The festive and joyous experience will take place from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. (beyond the party’s midnight end time!) at Tony’s Town Square Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park.  

You can raise a glass to the spirit of the seasons as they mingle in and out of this holly, jolly party to enjoy an assortment of themed food and beverage offerings, including beer and wine in a fun, festive atmosphere complete with a beautiful view of Town Square, upbeat holiday hits, and décor. The evening will also feature entertainment by the one and only Tony himself.

You can indulge in savory hors d’oeuvres including a selection of artisanal meats and cheeses as well as Tony’s famous meatballs and more! And if they're wanting to satisfy that sweet tooth, a variety of desserts will also be available. Yum!

But that’s not all! At 11 p.m., you will be able to enjoy reserved viewing for the enchanting “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” as it makes way down Main Street, U.S.A.

Please note, seating is available for Guests as they dine on a first come, first serve basis and shared seating is encouraged amongst Guests to enjoy both the food and company the party has to offer. 

Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party is available for $99 per person (plus tax) every Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party event night at Magic Kingdom Park. Admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is required to attend.

This looks amazing! We would love to help you book this event! Contact us today!

Candlelight Processional Narrators Announced!

The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year and with it comes the return of Epcot® International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth. This special event runs Nov. 29-Dec. 30, 2019, inviting you to discover holiday cheer throughout Epcot and across all 11 World Showcase pavilions. Seasonal fun includes sweet and savory treats at Holiday Kitchens throughout the park and special entertainment such as the Guest-favorite Candlelight Processional.

Held in the America Gardens Theatre, the Candlelight Processional is a cherished part of the Walt Disney World® holiday season, combining the talents of a live orchestra, massed choir and celebrity narrator in the retelling of the traditional Christmas story in a spectacular and heartwarming performance!

Here’s the line-up of celebrity narrators* confirmed to-date, and stay tuned for updates as additional narrators are announced:

• Neil Patrick Harris – 12/2-12/5

• Whoopi Goldberg – 12/6-12/7

• Gary Sinise – 12/13-12/15

• Pat Sajak – 12/16-12/18

• Steven Curtis Chapman – 12/22-12/24

• Edward James Olmos – 12/25-12/26

The Candlelight Processional is performed three times per night (5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.), and guaranteed seating is available by booking a breakfast, lunch or dinner Candlelight Processional Dining Package at select Epcot eateries. Availability is limited and advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit. Bookings for Candlelight Processional Dining Packages will begin on July 3, 2019.

Following the show, you can shop “around the world” to find the perfect holiday gift with a variety fragrances, specialty handbags, ornaments, toys, dolls, jewelry and stocking stuffers available at merchandise locations across Future World and World Showcase. And you can also catch the new, limited-time nighttime spectacular, Epcot Forever, debuting at Epcot this October.

The Christmas season is such a magical time to be at Walt Disney World! It’s not too late top plan a visit! Our travel consultants can help you plan the perfect visit!

Contact us to for more info!

or email us at info@uponastartravel.com

New Holiday Fireworks for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party!

This holiday season, the skies above Magic Kingdom® Park will sparkle to life like never before during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party with the debut of an all-new fireworks show that can be enjoyed across the park!  

Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show, hosted by the one-and-only Minnie Mouse, will celebrate the magic of Christmas with medleys of beloved holiday songs, from “Joy to the World” and “Deck the Halls” to “Up on the House Top” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.”  The holiday music will evoke heartfelt moments of home and family, as well as the festive fun of the season before an incredible finale you won’t want to miss.

You will be able to see the fireworks show during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights Nov. 8-Dec. 22, 2019.   And if they're looking for an extra magical way to celebrate the brand new show in its first year, our fireworks dessert parties are the perfect option! You can add on this experience to enjoy treats, including chocolate-dipped strawberries, cupcakes, ice cream, seasonal fruits, cheeses and other festive favorites while taking advantage of dedicated, dazzling views of the show.

Along with our new show, each of this year’s 23 nights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will feature performances of Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show.  And during A Frozen Holiday Wish stage show, Queen Elsa will magically transform Cinderella Castle with glistening ice.  

During Party nights, your Clients can also experience select rides and attractions (including the “Jingle Cruise”), savor complimentary treats, discover event-exclusive merchandise, delight to a magical “snowfall” in Main Street, U.S.A., and more.  

There’s still time to add Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!! Below are the the dates for 2019 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!

Nov. : 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24

Dec. : 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22

Contact our expert travel advisors to . plan your next visit to Walt Disney World!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets on Sale!!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year again! Tickets on Sale Now! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets are on sale now! Join in the Merriment on Select Nights November 8 to December 22, 2019.

This Christmas season, get ready for a magical holiday gathering with your loved ones—and some familiar Disney faces.

When Mickey celebrates the season, Magic Kingdom park lights up with excitement for Guests of all ages. Cinderella Castle shimmers. Joyful music fills the air. Disney Characters don their most festive attire. Favorite attractions take on a holiday theme. And enchanting surprises lie around almost every turn!

Event Times & Dates
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes place from 7:00 PM to midnight on the following dates in 2019:

November: 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24

December: 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22

Event tickets start at $99 

Discover dozens of iconic Magic Kingdom attractions you’re welcome to enjoy as you explore each land!

Though attractions and experiences are subject to change, here are some of the attractions that may be available during this event:

Frontierland

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

• Splash Mountain

Fantasyland 

• Dumbo the Flying Elephant

• “it’s a small world”

• Peter Pan’s Flight

• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Liberty Square

• Haunted Mansion

Tomorrowland

• Space Mountain

All attractions and experiences are subject to change without notice.

Savor delicious yuletide sweets as you sip on seasonal beverages—included with your admission. Plus, enjoy holiday-themed, event-exclusive treats available for purchase throughout the night.

Please note that alternative healthy and gluten-free options are available upon request. All menus and offerings are subject to change and availability.

This is a fabulous addition to your Walt Disney World vacation!

Contact your Upon A Star Travel Expert today for more info on getting tickets today!!

info@uponastartravel.com

Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

A Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is coming your way from Nov. 8, 2018, to January 6, 2019! Join in for this holly, jolly event and delight in festive shows, enchanting “snows,” holiday décor, Toy Story Land cheer, and yummy sweets and treats!

Watch as Sunset Boulevard becomes a winter wonderland and Hollywood Tower Hotel transforms with projections and laser effects depicting holiday stories of beloved Disney characters. And at the end of every night, they can experience Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!: a Santa-sized spectacular jam-packed with holiday music, fireworks, special effects, and dazzling state-of-the-art projections.

Throughout the park they'll find festive treats that’ll have their taste buds singing “Tis the season!” From gingerbread pops and holiday popcorn to hot chocolate flights and specialty cocktails, there’s so much to celebrate! 

Gingerbread Pop – It’s SO CUTE and one of many favorite holiday snacks, the Gingerbread Pop comes on a stick for easy on-the-go deliciousness and is dipped in chocolate. Your can find it at Anaheim Produce, the Churro Cart in front of the Chinese Theater, and the Main Entrance Coffee Cart.

Festive Popcorn – This treat features caramel corn mixed with nuts, crispy pearls, candy-coated chocolates, and mini sugar cookies. Find it at BaseLine Tap House and various popcorn carts throughout the park.

Santa Belt Macarons – Ho ho ho! Have a Santa Macaron! These almond macarons with hazelnut filling have climbed down the chimneys at BaseLine Tap House and Oasis Canteen and come in packages of five.

Santa Belt Candy Apple – Dipped in chocolate and decorated with more chocolate and marshmallow ears, your Clients will definitely want to take a bite out of these candy apples available at Trolley Car Café!

Olaf Cupcake – Your Clients will be giving everyone a warm hug after trying this chocolate cupcake with buttercream frosting available at ABC Commissary and Backlot Express

Large Shortbread Cookie – This big shortbread cookie is filled with raspberry jam and decorated in frosting. Get it at Trolley Car Café!Strawberry Mint Verrine – Head to Fairfax Fare to try these marinated strawberries dipped in peppermint crème.

Spiced Cold Chocolate – This chocolate verrine is made with house-made cinnamon marshmallows and chocolate cake and can be found at Rosie’s All-American Café.

Strawberry Mint Verrine – Head to Fairfax Fare to try these marinated strawberries dipped in peppermint crèmeChocolate Mousse Present – The tastiest present of all, this chocolate mousse dessert with chocolate ganache can be found at ABC Commissary.

Cranberry Mousse – Feast on this festive dome of chocolate-cranberry mousse available at Trolley Car Café!

Caramel Éclair – Find this tasty pastry filled with caramel at Dockside Diner.

Chocolate Chestnut Cone – Chow down on this chocolate treat served on a praline leaf offered at Backlot Express.
Eggnog Panna Cotta – This Eggnog Panna Cotta comes with raspberry and chocolate crème and can be found at Catalina Eddie’s.
Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Lunch Box Tart – Your Clients will find a friend in this yummy holiday Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Lunch Box Tart at Woody’s Lunch Box. It’s also topped with snowflakes and crispy pearls!

Prep and Landing Cupcake – Get ready for some elven shenanigans with this gingerbread cupcake with cream cheese frosting offered at Rosie’s All-American Café and Dockside Diner.

Hot Chocolate Flight – Warm up with Hot Chocolate Flights featuring hot chocolate with Irish liqueur, hot chocolate with vanilla vodka, and hot chocolate with cherry bourbon. The flight can be found at Fairfax Fare.

Frozen Hot Cocoa (non-alcoholic) – Cool down with some Frozen Hot Cocoa offered at ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, and Rosie’s All-American Café.

Gumdrop – You will be dreaming of sugarplums and gumdrops with this special holiday cocktail made with raspberry liqueur, raspberry vodka, pineapple and cranberry juices, and Sprite available at The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge and mobile bars near Echo Lake and Hollywood Scoops.

Frosted Gingerbread Martini – If you love gingerbread cookies, they'll love this gingerbread cocktail with vodka, Irish liqueur, coffee liqueur, gingerbread syrup, and ice cream mix available at Backlot Express.

Frostbite Cocktail – This cold cocktail made with vodka, blue liqueur, cranberry juice, and sour will be offered at Dockside Diner and Backlot Express.

Winterberry Margarita – Everyone loves a good marg. This holiday version is made with silver tequila, orange liqueur, sour, cranberry juice, and wildberry syrup. Find it at ABC Commissary and Rosie’s All-American Café.


These are just some of the amazing yummy treats that are waiting for you at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! There’s still time to book a magical holiday trip!!

Contact our expert travel pros for help on booking your next trip to Walt Disney World!

Click HERE if you don’t have an Upon A Star Travel Expert!

Ultimate Disney Christmastime Package at Walt Disney World Resort

Celebrate the magic of the holidays in The Most Magical Place on Earth with the Ultimate Disney Christmastime Package at Walt Disney World® Resort!

Arrive on December 17 and depart on December 22, 2018 and enjoy an itinerary full of magic, including exclusive experiences just for you and your family!: 

Monday, Dec. 17, 2018 – EXCLUSIVE nighttime access to 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 you won’t want to miss.

Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018 – Celebrate the season with tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom® Park

Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2018 – EXCLUSIVE nighttime access to experience Avatar Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey, Expedition Everest® and DINOSAUR, plus catch an exclusive showing of Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park

Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018 – EXCLUSIVE early morning access to shop at World of Disney and enjoy the Disney Springs® Christmas Tree Trail with hot chocolate and cotton candy

Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 – EXCLUSIVE holiday themed buffet dinner event at Epcot®

There are so many amazing Holiday activities for you this season: including “A Frozen Holiday Wish” at Magic Kingdom Park, the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays at Epcot, Flurry of Fun festivities and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Diwali holiday additions to UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, and much more.

This offer includes a 5-night stay at select Disney Moderate, Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort hotels plus 4-day Theme Park tickets with Park Hopper® Option. Starting at $175 per person, per night, for a family of four in a standard room at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, you can wrap up this offer for a total package price of $3,500*

*Price based on 2 adults, 1 junior (ages 10-17) and 1 child (ages 3-9). The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. The number of packages available for purchase is limited. Valid Theme Park admission required to attend Theme Park events included with this offer. Theme Park tickets must be used within 14 days of first use. First use must be by December 31, 2019. Special event ticket to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is valid only on December 18, 2018. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advanced reservations required. Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom Grand Villas, Standard View at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Contact your Upon A Star Travel Expert for an exact quote for your family!

Don’t have a travel expert yet? Click HERE today and choose one!

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!

Holidays at Universal Orlando Resorts

It's time for some Merry Mischief!

From mid November to early January, Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's brings you the Minions, Santa, and characters from Madagascar and Shrek and more! Check it out below!

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Both The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Hogsmeade™ and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ will be transformed by festive decorations, treats and special entertainment. And as the stars begin to shine, a stunning projection, The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™, wraps the castle in spectacular holiday spirit.

Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's

Merry and Mayhem combine as the Minions join Santa Claus in this all-new incarnation of a holiday favorite that also features characters from Madagascar and Shrek.

Grinchmas™

Seuss Landing™ is home to the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live retelling of Dr. Seuss's classic holiday tale starring The Grinch™. And this is the perfect time of the year to start your clients day by enjoying breakfast with The Grinch™ & Friends.

Mannheim Steamroller

The best-selling holiday artist returns for live performances on select nights.

Holidays at The Hotels

Put a bow on your season with a stay at one of Universal's on-site resort hotels. All hotels host holiday activities including:

• Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday dining from buffets to brunch
• Meet and greets with Santa
• Ornament and stocking decorating
• Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremonies
• New Year's Eve celebrations
• And more

Splash, Stay and Play Vacation Package:

The best way for you to experience the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort™ is with a Splash Stay and Play Vacation Package, which includes 5-Night hotel accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel along with a 3-Park 5-Day Base Ticket^ to Universal Studios Florida™, Universal’s Islands of Adventure AND Universal’s Volcano Bay™. Guests will also have Early Park Admission  to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required). 

Starting at $99** per adult, per night, tax inclusive

What an awesome way to enjoy the Holidays with your family! Collect some great memories and have a blast!!  Contact your Upon A Star Agent here today for more info!

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✨12 Days of Christmas, Day 1: Victoria & Albert’s, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort✨

Prepare to experience the meal of a lifetime at the elegant Victoria & Albert’s located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Many accolades have been awarded to Chef Scott Hunnel and his team for their culinary creations, including AAA’s Five Diamond Award. Taste European wines, Russian caviar or Spanish octopus while surrounded by Victorian-era decor. 

You have the option of choosing the opulent dining room with its Italian linens, Queen Victoria ‘s Room for a more intimate dining experience (party up to 8 guests), or the coveted Chef’s Table situated in the kitchen where you will be served up to 13 courses with paired wines. 

Whatever experience you choose, know you are in for a delicious dining adventure!

Contact your Upon a Star agent to reserve this dining experience!

12 Days of Christmas Day 8! ✨ Keys to The Kingdom Tour✨

Ever want to unlock the secrets to the Magic Kingdom? With The Keys to The Kingdom Tour you can! This 5-hour walking tour explores the creation and remarkable growth of one of the most beloved parks at Walt Disney World Resort! Explore secret locations you’ve always wondered about and get the inside scoop on some of your favorite attractions.

During your tour:

• Uncover the hidden secrets of classic attractions at Magic Kingdom park.
• Access the famed underground “Utilidor” tunnels that allow people and supplies to travel beneath the park unseen.
• Discover little-known facts, trivia and other exciting tidbits about the park.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch—included with your tour.
• Take home an exclusive keepsake!

Guests must be 16 years or older. The tour costs $99.00 each 

Contact us today to add this special tour to your next magical vacation. 

12 Days of Christmas: Day 9! ✨Highway in the Sky Dine Around✨

This is a great opportunity to visit the 3 deluxe monorail resorts! Start off your tour at Disney’s Contemporary Resort sampling an appetizer & specialty beverage.
Next, board the monorail for Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Here you will be able to indulge in tropical inspired appetizers & drinks!
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is your next stop! Sip champagne & sample delicious cheeses & charcuterie before your main course at Citricos.
Lastly, you will return to a private patio at the Contemporary Resort for desserts, coffees & cordials while viewing the Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After fireworks show!

Contact your Upon a Star agent to add this experience to your Walt Disney World vacation package!

12 Days of Christmas: Day 12! ✨Experience a Disney Festival!✨

Have you experienced a Disney Festival yet?

There’s so many to choose from now with the International Festival of the Arts coming up later this winter, the Food & Wine Festival, Festival of the Holidays and the International Flower & Garden Festival! During each festival, you will have a chance to explore Epcot complete with beautifully themed decorations, food stands & demonstrations, art exhibits, beverage stations, special ticketed events & more! 

Epcot Food and Wine Festival

During the holidays, you’ll find your favorite characters dressed to impress while you’ll learn how each country around the World Showcase celebrates throughout the season. 

Sample lagers & wines from around the world during the Fall’s International Food & Wine Festival as well as small bites.

View demonstrations explaining the art of water photography, floral topiaries, food styling & more during the International Festival of Arts. Visual, performing & culinary arts are all on display throughout Epcot during this colorful festival!

Epcot International Festival of Arts

Walk through Future World & the World Showcase and admire the multitude of topiaries & floral demonstrations during the International Flower & Garden Festival. There’s lots of delicious food & beverage stands as well!

Contact your Upon a Star agent here for information on booking your next magical vacation!

"ICE" Gaylord Palms

Fewer things bring us more Joy during the year than the bright lights of the Holidays! Last night I had the pleasure of attending a media event for Gaylord Palms “ICE” in Orlando. When the kids were younger I used to take them to see the Gingerbread displays here, but I’ve never seen ICE. It was amazing! 

We had the opportunity to see part of their Cirque Dreams Unwrapped stage show with flying trapeze acts, dancers and more! The stunts were breathtaking! They flew right over the audience with ease! 

After the show we took a short walk over to where the ICE event was being held. You walk inside the most adorable Christmas village filled with all kinds of activities and treats! (Even a Bar for the adults…Hot Toddy’s!), but the Hot Chocolate options looked wonderful! The first thing you see when entering this festive Village is an Ice slide! Of course I had to get on that! It’s a Tube ride that you can race your friends down the ice! Fair warning…. Pick up you bum! I thought they said DON’T pick up my bum so that made for an adventurous ride!! But really it was super fun! All the adults were having a blast right alongside the kids! I can see this whole attraction as being a great date night or family fun night out! 

We then moved on to the rest of the Village which included a room set up with large tables to decorate Gingerbread cookies and appearances by the cutest Gingerbread couple, along with the Peanuts Character appearances out front of it. There’s also a Storytelling room with none other than Mrs. Claus herself! The kids can write a letter to Santa and drop it at the North Pole Post Office and even get a chance to meet with SANTA! So much fun! 

But the really treat here is when you go into ICE itself! You first come to a Parka station where you get one of their free Parkas to use while you walk through the exhibit. It’s a COOL 9 degrees inside so if you’re prone to chills..GET THE PARKA! I happen to enjoy the cold and this Floridian took the opportunity to wear a faux fur coat! WIN! But, if you want to enjoy the other ICE slides inside this area you’ll need to wear a Parka. It’s required. So get the Parka! I also suggest wearing gloves and keeping your cell phone warm. I had mine in a Lifeproof case and that saved it from shutting down like all the others around me. The cold drains the battery almost instantly! 

All in all you’re surrounded by beautifully carved ICE sculptures, but the most breathtaking part of the whole experience is the last scene… The Nativity Scene stops you in your tracks! Take the time to Enjoy! 

If you’re interested in booking a package at the Gaylord Palms for ICE or adding it to your Walt Disney World holiday vacation, I’d love to help! 

Christine Fox

www.uponastartravel.com

Upon A Star Travel & Concierge 

It's a Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

A flurry of season fun has kicked off at Disney's Hollywood Studios! Check out all of the exciting holiday happenings around the resort! 

• Sunset Seasons Greetings – This new nighttime holiday experience features spectacular projections of Mickey, Minnie and other beloved Disney characters sharing their favorite Christmas stories as a snowy Sunset Boulevard twinkles with stunning holiday decorations. This charming scene becomes enchanted with holiday magic that brings billboards to life and transforms the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel into a giant pile of Christmas gifts, a gingerbread house and a frozen winter wonderland! A frosty summer-loving snowman might even make an appearance to share his holiday wish! The fantastic and heartwarming experience runs continuously throughout the night.
• Enhanced holiday décor around Echo Lake – Extra-large ornaments, colorful garlands and a giant Christmas tree centered on the water will make Echo Lake the merriest of places this holiday season. Even Dinosaur Gertie will be dressed for the occasion with a dino-Santa hat.
• A new friend joins the cast of ‘For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration’ – The holiday fun continues as Anna, Elsa and Kristoff welcome Olaf to the sing-along celebration, featuring for a limited time all-new songs from Disney’s new animated short “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” at Hyperion Theater.

Many returning favorites will be a part of the Flurry of Fun this holiday season including:

• Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! – The hit holiday show returns Nov. 9, 2017 sending beloved Disney animated characters on a spirited yuletide adventure to get Santa back to the North Pole in time for Christmas Eve. “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” combines state-of-the-art projections, fireworks, special effects and Christmas music to create a dazzling, one-of-a-kind holiday experience for Guests – capped by a special message from Santa himself.
• Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Dessert Party – Your Clients can wrap up their jolly holiday evening with reserved viewing of the “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” holiday spectacular. This dessert party includes holiday-inspired snacks, delicious desserts, wine, beer, and specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages while mingling with a VIP Disney Character. This fun-filled holiday event is being offered Nov. 9-Dec. 30, 2017. Contact your Upon A Star agent to book! 
• Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood and Vine – Meet Minnie, Mickey, Daisy, Donald and Goofy for lunch and dinner celebrations centered on seasonal deliciousness. From Nov. 6-Jan. 7, 2017, the mouse-with-the-mostest will deck the halls for a banquet filled with holiday cheer and the joy of the season! To make a reservation, contact your Upon A Star Agent!
• Santa Claus returns to the Once Upon a Time shop Nov. 9-Dec. 24, 2017. The beautiful and vintage setting reflects the bygone days of Santa’s visits to the great department stores across the country. Santa Goofy will step in for Old Saint Nick when he returns to the North Pole Dec. 25 -31, 2017.

So much to do! There's still time to plan a trip to Walt Disney World for the Holidays!

Contact our expert agents here today!

Upon A Star Travel

Unwrap The Holidays at Walt Disney World!

Walt Disney World is a winter wonderland of twinkling lights & holiday magic! Curious how the Parks transform into their holiday splendor so quickly? With Disney's new Yuletide Fantasy & Holiday D-Lights tour, guests will be able to venture backstage to meet with the Holiday Services Cast Members! 

Discover how Cinderella's Castle is immersed into its spectacular display of thousands of twinkle lights and experience Epcot's popular Candlelight Processional. Disney’s Holiday D-Lights is offered on 12 select nights throughout the season. 'Tis the season to contact your Travel Agent to register for this special tour during the holiday season! 

Contact your Upon A Star Agent today here!

uponastartarvel.com

Ultimate Disney Christmas!

Celebrate the magic of the holidays in The Most Magical Place on Earth with the Ultimate Disney Christmas Package at Walt Disney World® Resort. Arrive on December 21 and depart on December 26, 2017 and enjoy an itinerary full of magic, including exclusive experiences just for Guests on this package! Take a look at all the unique Yuletide offerings included in this festive offer:

• December 21, 2017 – One ticket per Guest in your party to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic KingdomPark
• December 22, 2017 – Access to special nighttime Extra Magic Hours at Pandora – The World of Avatar within Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• December 23, 2017 – A special holiday Character experience at Disney's Hollywood Studios
• December 24, 2017 – An invitation to a special Christmas Eve dinner celebration at Epcot
• December 25, 2017 – A special holiday gift delivered to your Disney Resort hotel room

This offer also includes a 5-night stay at select Disney Moderate, Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort hotels plus 4-day Theme Park tickets with Park Hopper® Option! Starting at $139 per person, per night, for a family of four in a standard room at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, Wrap up this offer for a total package price of $2,775*. Book through December 10, 2017.

This offer will be very limited so book now!

Contact our travel experts here for more info!

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*Price based on 2 adults, 1 junior and 1 child. The number of rooms allocated to this offer is limited. The number of packages available for purchase is limited. Valid Theme Park admission required to attend Theme Park events included with this offer.