Deep within the colorful realm of Epcot’s Future World at Walt Disney World Resort, a hidden gem awaits: “Journey into Imagination with Figment.” This whimsical attraction invites visitors to embark on a delightful adventure that celebrates the power of imagination and the joy of creative exploration.
As guests step into the Imagination Institute, the atmosphere is immediately filled with curiosity and anticipation. The attraction stars Figment, a mischievous purple dragon who serves as a guide through a series of interactive exhibits that showcase the wonders of imagination.
The journey kicks off with a visit to the Sensory Labs, where guests can engage their senses in imaginative ways. From sights and sounds to smells and textures, the interactive stations encourage visitors to playfully experiment and rediscover the magic of their own perceptions.
The Dreamport takes visitors on a fantastical ride aboard the “Imagination Scanner.” This whimsical vehicle spirals through different imaginative realms, highlighting the potential of creative thought. The vibrant scenes come to life through dynamic visuals, engaging music, and playful surprises that appeal to all ages.
Figment’s mischievous antics and clever commentary add a touch of whimsy to the experience. His infectious laughter and exuberance embody the spirit of imaginative exploration, inspiring guests to embrace their inner child and let their creativity run wild.
“Journey into Imagination with Figment” is more than an attraction; it’s a celebration of the creative spirit that resides within each of us. It encourages guests to view the world through a different lens, to see ordinary things in extraordinary ways, and to appreciate the endless possibilities that imagination holds.
While the attraction has evolved over the years, “Journey into Imagination with Figment” pays homage to the original version that debuted in 1983. Figment himself, a beloved character created for the attraction, continues to be a fan-favorite and a symbol of the magic of Disney’s creative storytelling.
“Journey into Imagination with Figment” is a whimsical journey that proves that the world of the mind is just as wondrous as any other. With its playful exploration of the senses, vibrant visuals, and Figment’s infectious charm, the attraction encourages guests of all ages to embrace their inner creativity and take a joyful leap into the realm of imagination. It’s a heartwarming reminder that in the world of Disney, and in life itself, imagination knows no bounds.
Nestled within the enchanting landscape of Epcot’s China pavilion at Walt Disney World Resort, the Nine Dragons Restaurant stands as a culinary gem that invites guests on a flavorful journey through the diverse cuisines of China. With its elegant ambiance, authentic dishes, and captivating cultural atmosphere, this restaurant offers a dining experience that transcends borders.
The Nine Dragons Restaurant seamlessly blends architecture, decor, and cuisine to create an immersive dining experience that transports guests to the heart of China. As visitors step into the elegant interior, they are greeted by ornate wooden carvings, intricate artwork, and subtle nods to Chinese culture and history. The restaurant’s design captures the essence of traditional Chinese aesthetics while incorporating modern touches, creating a harmonious balance between the past and the present.
The heart of the Nine Dragons Restaurant lies in its diverse menu that showcases the rich culinary tapestry of China. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the serene landscapes of Sichuan, the menu takes diners on a gastronomic odyssey. Dishes are meticulously prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic techniques, ensuring that the flavors are a true representation of the regions they hail from.
The menu at Nine Dragons Restaurant is a showcase of China’s culinary diversity, featuring a wide range of dishes that cater to various tastes. Guests can savor classic favorites like Sweet-and-Sour Pork, Kung Pao Chicken, and Mongolian Beef, each prepared with the restaurant’s signature flair. For those seeking a more adventurous palate, the menu also boasts less familiar dishes that highlight regional specialties, such as Spicy Mala Shrimp and Hong Kong Seafood Curry.
The Nine Dragons Restaurant isn’t just a place to enjoy exquisite cuisine; it’s also an elegant setting for special occasions and gatherings. With its spacious dining areas and private rooms, the restaurant provides an intimate backdrop for celebrations, reunions, and even romantic dinners.
The restaurant goes beyond just serving delicious food; it’s also a platform for cultural connections. As guests savor their meals, they are exposed to the art of Chinese culinary traditions, fostering an appreciation for the techniques, ingredients, and histories that contribute to the creation of each dish.
The Nine Dragons Restaurant encapsulates the spirit of China within the confines of Epcot’s China pavilion. Its meticulously crafted interior, diverse menu, and commitment to authentic flavors make it a culinary destination for both Disney enthusiasts and those seeking an immersive cultural experience. Whether you’re indulging in familiar favorites or venturing into uncharted culinary territory, dining at the Nine Dragons Restaurant is an exploration of China’s rich culinary heritage and an enchanting way to add a touch of global flavor to your Disney experience.
Imagine strolling through the atmospheric streets of the French Quarter, listening to the soulful sounds of jazz, and savoring the flavors of Creole cuisine. Now imagine all of this magic intertwined with the enchantment of Disney. Welcome to Port Orleans French Quarter, a hidden gem within Walt Disney World Resort that transports guests to the heart of New Orleans while delivering the signature Disney experience.
Nestled on the picturesque banks of the Sassagoula River, Port Orleans French Quarter is a unique and charming resort that captures the spirit of the lively French Quarter of New Orleans. The resort’s architecture, inspired by the iconic Crescent City, boasts intricate wrought-iron railings, cobblestone streets, and colorful facades that mimic the vivacious atmosphere of its real-life counterpart.
Port Orleans French Quarter offers guests cozy and intimate accommodations that evoke the ambiance of a charming New Orleans inn. The guest rooms are adorned with vibrant colors and details that harken back to the Big Easy’s cultural flair. The cozy atmosphere and intimate layout make it an ideal destination for couples, solo travelers, or families seeking a relaxing escape.
The resort’s lush courtyards, adorned with fountains and lush greenery, provide a serene retreat from the excitement of the theme parks. Guests can take leisurely strolls through the gardens, relax by the tranquil Doubloon Lagoon pool, or unwind in a secluded nook with a book in hand. The soothing ambiance captures the essence of the French Quarter’s laid-back charm.
One of the highlights of Port Orleans French Quarter is the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, where guests can indulge in a variety of delectable treats. The legendary beignets, warm and dusted with powdered sugar, are a must-try and pay homage to the culinary delights of New Orleans. From po’boys to jambalaya, the restaurant offers a taste of Louisiana’s rich flavors that perfectly complement the resort’s theme.
One of the unique features of Port Orleans French Quarter is its scenic water transportation. Guests can take a relaxing boat ride down the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs, an entertainment district filled with dining, shopping, and live entertainment options. This convenient and picturesque mode of transportation adds an extra layer of charm to the resort experience.
In true Disney fashion, Port Orleans French Quarter offers a variety of entertainment options for guests to enjoy during their stay. From themed pool parties to outdoor movie nights, the resort ensures that the magic doesn’t end when you return from the parks. The playful and engaging activities cater to visitors of all ages.
Port Orleans French Quarter is a harmonious blend of New Orleans’ lively charm and Disney’s signature enchantment. From its picturesque architecture and serene courtyards to its mouthwatering cuisine and immersive ambiance, the resort offers an authentic and magical escape from the ordinary. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, Port Orleans French Quarter beckons you to experience the unique fusion of Louisiana spirit and Disney magic that awaits within its charming confines.
One of the biggest draws of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is the fantastic lineup of entertainment. The entertainment offerings are one of the reasons many guests return to the party year after year. It certainly is for us. We firmly believe that Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has the best Disney entertainment offerings. The lineup includes one of the best Disney parades, an incredible fireworks show, a spell-bounding stage show, a Disney singing quartet, and fun dance parties for all ages.
1 – Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade
Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is by far our favorite Disney parade. In 2023, the parade was updated, so even if you have seen the parade before, you’ll want to see the updates. In the descriptions below, we note which sections of the parade have something new in them.
Pre-Parade:
Headless Horseman – Your favorite galloping Headless Horseman is also back and rides through the streets of Main Street USA to set the spooky tone for the parade. He appears about twenty minutes before each parade performance, following the entire parade route.
Max Goof – Also before the parade, guests can ‘Stand Out’ and dance along with Max Goof, who is cosplaying as Powerline, his favorite pop superstar. Joining Max is a 90’s dance crew that encourages guests to dance along with them. Max Goof and the dancers make their way down Main Street, U.S.A., to the Railroad Station.
Boo to You Parade:
Pluto, Tigger, Winnie the Pooh, Mad Hatter, Alice and Wonderland, Snow White, Dopey, Jasmine, Aladdin, Rapunzel, and Flynn
(NEW) Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow as the Sanderson Sisters, Mickey, Donald, and Chip ‘n Dale – New for 2023, partygoers can see Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow dressed as the Sanderson Sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus.” We love their costumes! These characters are on a new float. The old gazebo is (thankfully) gone. However, it is a little tricky seeing the sisters up on the float as the metalwork of the float blocks them. Mickey, Donald, and Chip ‘n Dale are in Halloween costumes.
Smee, Captain Hook, Wendy, Peter Pan, and some Lost Boys, ahead of Tinkerbell sitting on her treasure.
Pirates with flags dance troupe ahead of a pirate ship with Barbossa, Angelica, and Captain Jack Sparrow.
Haunted Mansion – Gravediggers, Leota Float, waltzing ghosts, the Spectral Bride, and the famous Hitchhiking Ghosts.
Sugar Rush – Vanellope and the girls from Sugar Rush make sure there’s plenty of candy to go around during the parade.
(NEW) Expanded Villians – Guests will be delighted to see Ursula, joined by Flotsam and Jetsam puppets, which is new in 2023. Ursala glides along the parade route and is a terrific addition.
Cruella Devil is now riding in a car along with Jasper and Horace, who are also new to the parade.
The Queen of Hearts is now accompanied by her card army, giving her an expanded role in the parade.
The Skeleton Band returns this year. Next is a group of Villains, including Anastasia and Drizella Tremain, Evil Stepmother, Gaston, Honest John and Gideon, and Oogie Boogie.
Finally, the classic villains float with Maleficent, Jafar, and the Evil Queen, ends the parade.
The parade follows the Festival of Fantasy parade route, beginning in Frontierland and ending near the City Hall on Main Street USA. The parade runs at 9:15 pm and 11:15 pm. Usually, the second parade is less busy, and you may not have to line up as early to get a good spot.
2 – Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacuar
The Sanderson Sisters are as popular as ever, and the stage show “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” is a chance to see them at their best. The cast is extremely talented, and I’ve always enjoyed watching this show. During this show, you’ll have a chance to see Dr. Facilier, Oogie Boogie, Maleficent, and of course, the Sanderson Sisters, who are trying to cast a spell over everyone at Magic Kingdom.
In August and September, the show runs at 8:35 pm, 10:45 pm, and midnight. In October, you’ll have an extra chance to see the show with the addition of a 7:40 pm show. The show runs for about twenty minutes, so keep that in mind when planning your evening. We always recommend guests catch the last show at midnight so you won’t miss any party time. There is so much to do and see at the party; by watching it at midnight, you can fit other things in and save it for last.
3 – ‘Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular’
In 2019, “Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular” debuted and quickly became a fan favorite. The fireworks show lights the night sky with projections and fireworks. As host of the spectacle, Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” spins a not-so-scary tale about how anything can happen on Halloween night. Jack’s ghost dog, Zero, brings everyone along on a trick-or-treating adventure where four friends – Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, and Donald Duck – find themselves drawn into a haunted house. Encounters with dancing skeletons, waltzing ghosts, and wickedly troublemaking Disney villains make for a hair-raising adventure. It all comes to life with state-of-the-art projection effects, lasers, lighting, and dazzling fireworks.
The fireworks show is a lot of fun, and we really encourage you to catch it. It runs at 10:15 pm with the best viewing in front of Cinderella Castle, much like Happily Ever After. When choosing when and where to find your spot for the fireworks, keep in mind that the entire Hub area in front of the castle will be packed with people the whole night, from people watching Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular at 8:35 pm and Mickey’s Boo to You Halloween Parade at 9:15 pm.
4 – Cadaver Dans
Finally, fans of the Dapper Dans won’t want to miss catching the Cadaver Dans. This quartet will sing your favorite spooky tunes in Frontierland throughout the evening at 7:00 pm, 7:45 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:50 pm, and 10:30 pm. Their “dead pan” humor is to die for and very entertaining.
5 – Rusty Cutlass Pirate Band
A new offering is in Adventureland! A spirited pirate band performs near Pirates of the Caribbean with spooky sea shanties. These guys were a lot of fun and added a lot to the atmosphere. You can catch them off and on throughout the evening.
6 – Zom-Beatz Bash
Over in Tomorrowland at the Rocettower Plaza Stage, guests can dance with zombies, cheerleaders, werewolves, and aliens for an out-of-this-world dance party!
7 – Disney Junior Jam
At Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, guests can dance the night away with Vampirina and some of your other favorite Disney Junior Characters. Kids will certainly enjoy this one!
Laissez les bon temps rouler! We’re pleased to announce that the official opening date of Tiana’s Palace restaurant in Disneyland Park is September 7, 2023! This reimagined quick-service style restaurant is inspired by the one Princess Tiana created in the beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios film, “The Princess and the Frog.”
TheTiana’s Palace restaurant opening will mark the next step in bringing more of Princess Tiana’s stories to life in New Orleans Square, which began with Eudora’s Chic Boutique featuring Tiana’s Gourmet Secrets last year and will continue with the opening of the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction in 2024. We are so thrilled to expand upon Princess Tiana’s story, pay homage to the cuisine of the Crescent City, and welcome guests into Tiana’s Palace in just a few short weeks!
There will be so many elegant yet subtle details throughout the restaurant that offer fun hints at Tiana’s rich past in New Orleans. Below the lit marquee that reads “Tiana’s Palace” hanging above a metallic gold balcony, is an emerald green wrought iron railing and awnings dyed in yellow and green, reminiscent of Tiana’s beautiful formal ball gown. Guests will be surrounded by the colors of Mardi Gras as they sit at yellow tabletops, on warm vanilla-colored chairs with green seats, in the shade of yellow and green umbrellas.
Disney Imagineers also took inspiration from the film for the interior of the restaurant, which includes a large mural of the bayou. Guests will also see other references to Tiana’s story – lilies represented on numerous signs, plaques and light fixtures, frog porcelains, cookbooks Tiana has collected on little shelves, and her father’s favorite gumbo spoon proudly on display. Guests will also want to keep an eye out for the letters from her father and neighbors on display, alongside a childhood photo of Tiana.
Did you know? The design of Tiana’s Palace from the Disney Animation film “The Princess and the Frog” was actually inspired by the French Market Restaurant – the former restaurant in this space – in New Orleans Square at Disneyland Park. In the film, Disney Animation artists added a wheelhouse and two smokestacks to give Tiana’s restaurant an iconic silhouette, so when the time came to bring Tiana’s Palace to life at Disneyland, Disney Imagineers made those same additions to create the real Tiana’s Palace, making this a full circle moment!
We are so excited to welcome guests soon to see this exciting transformation, as well as mark the return of the Mint Julep Bar! At Tiana’s Palace, Guests can enjoy new menu items that represent Tiana’s story and honor the flavors and flair of New Orleans, with an effort to source some ingredients directly from the state of Louisiana when possible. Plus, we’ll now be able to mobile order these new dishes on the Disneyland app* when the location opens. Stay tuned for a first look of the full menu, coming soon!
We look forward to welcoming Guests to Tiana’s Palace in New Orleans Square beginning Sept. 7!
