Anna, Elsa, and Santa are Coming to Disney’s Blizzard Beach, Beginning Nov. 13

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Uncategorized

Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and Santa are coming to Disney World’s Blizzard Beach!

Only in Florida could Guests bask in the sun at a water park during the holiday season, and thanks to the magic of Disney, that’s exactly what awaits Guests who visit this holiday season and experience a new take on Disney World’s Blizzard Beach when the water park reopens on November 13!

Per a news release from Walt Disney World on Tuesday morning, Blizzard Beach will reopen in mid-November with some exciting new touches from Walt Disney Animation’s frosty blockbuster, Frozen.

The release reads in part:

It’s a ski-riffic time at Walt Disney World Resort as Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park prepares to reopen on November 13, when Guests will once again set off on arctic adventures in the warm Florida sun and discover new touches from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Frozen.”

The new “Frozen” features will be part of the kid-sized thrills of Tike’s Peak that’s popular among young guests who will delight in the statuettes of Olaf and his Snowgie pals in the warm wading pool, as well as Anna and Elsa’s igloo castle.  

The water park, which features heated water throughout the park, will also have an enhanced holiday atmosphere. This year there will be limited-time holiday offerings through December 31 that include holiday-themed treats, snowfall, and festive inner tubes. Guests can even meet a tropical-dressed Santa for the ultimate Florida holiday experience. 

It sounds like an amazing, festive, “Frozen” time for all! Who ever dreamed of enjoying holiday-themed treats and riding in festive inner tubes, enjoying snowfall, and meeting Santa is his swim trunks could take place at a water park–in the colder months of the year?

Thanks to Disney, Guests will get to have these experiences and more, but the holiday offerings are only available through December 31!

Disney Shuts Down Park For One Day During Holiday Rush as Temperatures Drop

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

If you are planning on being at Walt Disney World Resort during the Christmas season, there are a few things you should be keeping your eye on to ensure that your schedule does not have any surprise closures that arise!

This week and the following will undoubtedly be some of the busiest that Disney World has seen this past year. The Christmas season is always a busy time for the Parks, and now that school is out for many, vacationing to the Most Magical Place on Earth seems like the most logical thing to do! Although Disney Park Pass Reservations are still required, and Disney still has a capacity limit in place, lines are being seen to extend past their provided queue line, and crowds are here.

With that being said, this time of year can also have very varying weather temperatures that do not affect the theme parks but the water parks. Disney’s Blizzard Beach is currently open to Guests at Walt Disney World, but when the temperature dips too low, Disney may decide to shut down the Park so that they are not operating what would likely be an empty Park. This past December has been quite warm in Orlando, but we have seen Disney shut down the Park a few times. Now, Disney’s website notes that on December 22, 2021, Blizzard Beach will be closed.

blizzard beach overview shot

The website does not denote why the Park will be shut down, but after looking at the 66-degree weather forecast for this upcoming Wednesday, it is easy to understand why. Of course, Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will remain open this week; however, Disney Park Passes are selling fast, so be sure to make your reservation and check on the Park availability before making plans. 

If you are looking for other water park or sport options to do on Disney World property, you can look into the following:

Enjoy a theme park a day plus more chances to play—with admission to water parks, golf courses and other sensational sports experiences!

For each day of your theme park tickets, adding the Water Park and Sports Option lets you visit one theme park and gives you one admission to select Walt Disney World experiences including:

  • Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
  • Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – Currently Unavailable
  • ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – Currently Unavailable
  • Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course
  • FootGolf at Disney’s Oak Trail
  • Disney’s Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course (one round prior to 4:00 PM)
  • Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course (one round prior to 4:00 PM)

Come share the magic of our theme parks, make a splash in our water parks and get your game on—as you score the perfect family vacation!

blizzard beach

At the moment, it seems that the rest of the week is wide open for Blizzard Beach Guests to enjoy Summit Plummet, Runoff Rapids, Toboggan Racers, Tike’s Peak, Mount Gushmore, and more. At the moment, Walt Disney World has not yet reopened Typhoon Lagoon water park.

Disney Water Parks, Sports Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Disney Resorts, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom

There’s EARidescent magic to be discovered in every corner of the Walt Disney World Resort during the 50th anniversary celebration. And today, our “Everything 50th” series continues with a look at exciting experiences – now and in the future – at Disney Water Parks, runDisney events and more!

Disney World News: 50th Anniversary Ad, More Mask Changes Coming, Added Hours - Disney Tourist Blog

Right now, dazzling 50th anniversary celebration decorations and magical touches can be seen throughout the Walt Disney World Resort. Disney teams have created decor that shimmers and sparkles all day and into the night.

There are also new, delicious 50th anniversary menu items at Walt Disney World Resort – many inspired by Walt’s favorite dishes. At Disney’s Water Parks, celebratory treats are available now and in the future at several locations:   

Avalunch at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park (Snack Shack at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park when reopened)

  • Loaded Nachos with Walt’s Chili – This classic treat is upgraded for the 50th anniversary celebration and features Walt’s favorite chili atop a bed of house fried tortillas, cheese guacamole, shredded lettuce, tomato, onion, sour cream and jalapeno. 

I.C. Expeditions at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park (Happy Landings at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park when reopened)

  • EARidescent Ice Dream Cone – Birthday cake-flavored soft serve ice cream cone served up with EARidescent accents to celebrate 50 years of Walt’s dreams that turned into reality. 

And at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, Guests will find a new version of our collectible and refillable mugs featuring a giant 50 for the celebration!  The mug design includes creative art highlighting Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck with Goofy skiing hijinks in the background and can be found at different locations, including Beach Haus , Lotta Wotta Lodge and Cooling Hut. At Typhoon Lagoon, special 50th mugs will be available at Singapore Sal’s and High & Dry.   

From Disney’s Water Parks to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and across the Resort, our legendary Cast Members are the heart of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration and they’re eager to share a little bit of their world during this special time. 

Smiling Cast Members are easy to spot, wearing special nametags with the 50th anniversary castle logo above each cast member’s name, along with gold accents and a touch of pixie dust. 

The magic is also calling all runners to become part of something special at runDisney events during The World’s Most Magical Celebration.

For runDisney 2022 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, Jan. 5-9, 2022, participants will run through the magic and stories of Walt Disney World Resort. And they’ll have the opportunity for amazing 50th anniversary celebration views during runs near our breathtaking Beacons of Magic! 

Mickey Mouse and other favorite characters will be wearing their shimmering EARidsecent best during the race weekend as well. Marathon Weekend will feature amazing entertainment and unique commemorative finisher medals glowing with EARidesence.  

Also, during the magic of the Walt Disney World Resort 50th anniversary celebration, the 2022 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by CORKCICLE will have participants running into the magic on Feb. 24-27, 2022. This event will feature events for all skill levels, coveted regal medals inspired by the 50th anniversary celebration, special merchandise, celebratory treats and other surprises. 

Disney Lists ALL Dole Whips & Where To Find Them

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks, Disney Resorts, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom

Disney is celebrating their first ever “DOLE Whip Day”! It’s no surprise that Dole Whips have that enticing taste that tends to draw in a Disney foodie following! And now, Disney has made our love for all things Dole Whip even easier by sharing a list of all their current Dole Whip offerings and where to find them. And yes, Dole Whips are fat-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free with no cholesterol… so what’s not to love?

First up, in celebration of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney has launched the limited-time “Tamatoa-inspired” Dipped Cone at Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. From July 19 through 21 you can order the “Tamatoa-inspired” Dipped Cone – Dole Whip raspberry swirled with Dole Whip orange in a white chocolate-dipped waffle cone and coated with “shiny” gold sugar.

Tropical Hideaway at Disneyland Park

  • Dole Whip pineapple, lemon, mango, and raspberry (can be swirled)
  • Dole Whip Floats
    • Dole Whip pineapple-lemon swirl with Dole pineapple juice
    • Dole Whip pineapple-raspberry swirl with Dole pineapple juice
    • Dole Whip raspberry-lemon swirl with Dole pineapple juice
    • Dole Whip raspberry-lemon with passionfruit, orange, and guava juice
  • Loaded Dole Whips
    • Jungle Cruise Dessert Bowl – Dole Whip with blueberries, strawberries, and mandarin oranges topped with coconut caramel sauce, crushed plantains, dried hibiscus, and toasted coconut
    • Dole Whip chile-mango with chamoy, mango, and chile-lime

Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill at Disneyland Hotel

  • Dole Whip
  • Dole Float – Dole Whip topped with Dole pineapple juice
  • Dole Whip topped with rum

Aloha Isle at Magic Kingdom Park

  • Dole Whip
  • Dole Whip Float – Dole Whip topped with Dole pineapple juice

Sunshine Tree Terrace at Magic Kingdom Park

  • Dole Whip orange
  • Orange Cream Cup – Dole Whip orange and vanilla soft-serve
  • I Lava You Float –  Dole Whip orange topped with Fanta Strawberry and red passion fruit syrup topped with popping candy

Marketplace Snacks at Disney Springs

  • Dole Whip
  • Dole Whip lime (through Labor Day)
  • Fresh Dole Whip Watermelon Slice – Dole Whip watermelon served in a fresh watermelon slice topped with chocolate chips (through Labor Day)
  • Dole Whip Watermelon Parfait – Dole Whip watermelon and Key lime custard with a Mickey-shaped watermelon piece topped with chocolate chips (through Labor Day)

Tamu Tamu at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

  • Dole Whip
  • Dole Whip Float – Dole Whip topped with Dole pineapple juice
  • Dole Whip topped with coconut rum
  • Simba Sunset – Dole Whip topped with flavored syrups (watermelon, strawberry, and coconut)
  • King’s Cooler – Dole Whip topped with coconut rum and flavored syrups (watermelon, strawberry, and coconut)

Trilo-Bites at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

  • Trilo-Bites Twist – Dole Whip orange with vanilla soft-serve

Barefoot Pool Bar and Oasis Pool Bar at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

  • Frosty Pineapple – Dole Whip blended with rum
  • Frozen Margarita Dole Whip lime blended with tequila blended and chili-lime seasoning

Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

  • Dole Whip (can be swirled with vanilla soft-serve)
  • Dole Whip lemon, lime, strawberry, raspberry, and mango (rotates as “Today’s Flavors”)
  • Dole Whip topped with coconut rum
  • Exclusive for Dole Whip Day – “Tamatoa-inspired” Dipped Cone – Dole Whip raspberry swirled with Dole Whip orange in a white chocolate-dipped waffle cone and coated with “shiny” gold sugar (available July 19- 21)

Warming Hut at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

  • Dole Whip cone or cup (can be swirled with vanilla soft-serve)

Refreshment Outpost at EPCOT

  • Dole Whip pineapple, watermelon, or swirl (July 15-Nov. 20)

Little ‘Opihi’s at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

  • Dole Whip pineapple, mango, watermelon, and vanilla soft-serve
  • Dole Whip Fresh Fruit Sundae with sprinkles in a waffle bowl topped with fresh pineapple (Moana-themed) or watermelon fruit (Stitch-themed)
  • Mickey and Minnie Waffle Bowl featuring Dole Whip with sprinkles

Ulu Cafe at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

  • Dole Whip mango (can be swirled with vanilla soft-serve)
  • Psst … we have been told the popular Dole Whip Pumpkin Spice will again be offered this fall at Ulu Café – YES!

How about THAT list?! Looks like a rather delicious list in our opinion! Take note that the above Dole Whip offerings are subject to availability. Your best bet is to get out and try them sooner rather than later so you’ll have a chance to taste your desired Dole Whip.

Details of Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park Reopening

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

Back in March 2020, Disney decided to close down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the theme parks reopened in July 2020, the water parks remained closed a bit longer. Disney’s Blizzard Beach will finally welcome guests again on Sunday, March 7, 2021. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon remains closed until further notice. Since COVID-19 is still a very serious issue things will look a little bit different than you are used to. Here’s what to expect with the reopening of Disney’s Blizzard Beach.

1. No Reservation System

If you’ve gone to the theme parks since the reopening you are used to having to get a reservation for the parks. Blizzard Beach is not using a reservation system, at least not for the time being. That means that it is first come, first served. You may want to get there early to guarantee your spot since capacity will be limited.

2. Temperature Screenings

Like in most areas of Walt Disney World you will be required to have your temperature taken before entering. It is super quick and it is just for everyone’s safety. You must have a temperature below 100.4F or you will not be allowed to enter the park. Just like the theme parks, it was quick and easy during the preview.

3. Face Coverings

It is a little bit more tricky when it comes to face coverings at the water parks. You were going to be required to wear a face covering while entering and exiting the park, in any retail areas, or when ordering food and beverages. Just like at the parks you may remove your face covering while actively eating or drinking, but you must remain stationary and stay at least six feet away from others. Face coverings, however, will not be allowed in the water or on any slides. During our event we weren’t actually going in the water or riding the slides, so we didn’t really experience how that will work. We will be back when they officially reopen and let you know.

4. Social Distancing

Social distancing is important, especially when not wearing face coverings. Make sure to maintain at least six feet from other guests. You will need to follow all markers on the ground which indicate where to stand. Disney is good at taking the guesswork out of it for you, so please just follow the new guidelines for everybody’s safety. Also, there are signs around the park that ask guests to not move chairs or tables. All the chairs and tables have been separated to the appropriate distance, so please leave things where they are.

5. Enhanced Cleaning

Safety is always Disney’s number one priority, so they have enhanced cleaning just like the rest of Walt Disney World. So that you can do your part there are now hand sanitizing stations and handwashing locations all over Blizzard Beach. Make sure to take advantage of these areas.

6. Dining Options

Just like the theme parks, we were told that Disney is strongly encouraging Mobile Ordering at Blizzard Beach. This is to make sure that everyone has as minimal contact with other people as possible. There are some delicious new offerings available that we got to taste. I am vegan so I couldn’t try all of them, but the vegan sausage with peppers and onions was quite tasty. We also got to try some drinks over at Polar Pub. The clear cups are for alcoholic beverages and the white cups for nonalcoholic. A cold drink will be a nice treat on a hot day.

Please be patient with all of the cast members, they are doing everything they can to keep you safe and still be able to have all the fun and magic that Disney can bring. Thank you, Walt Disney World, for hosting us and giving us a special preview. We all are excited for things to start to get back to normal, and every new opening is a step in that direction.