Walt Disney World Theme Park Shuts Down to Brace for Winter Weather Impact

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

Right now, winter storms are wreaking havoc along the East Coast, causing disruptions and closures in unexpected places. Many major cities have experienced heavy rain, snow, freezing temps, and severe wind gusts this January. Even in sunny Central Florida, the Walt Disney World Resort is not immune to the effects of these weather systems.

The resort, known for its magical experiences and world-class attractions, has taken the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of its guests and cast members. As a result, one of its premier theme parks has been forced to temporarily suspend operations.

Blizzard Beach closed

While Central Florida is typically known for its warm climate and sunny skies, the region is not entirely immune to the occasional cold snap. This winter, a series of powerful winter storms have swept across the East Coast, causing temperatures to drop dramatically.

As a result, the Walt Disney World Resort has had to make the difficult decision to close the Blizzard Beach water park temporarily, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its visitors.

Blizzard Beach, located within the enchanting Walt Disney World Resort, is a beloved destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. With its thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, this Disney water park offers a refreshing escape from the Florida heat.

However, Mother Nature has taken its toll, as plummeting temperatures have made it impossible to maintain the park’s operations.

Blizzard Beach

By closing Blizzard Beach, the Resort ensures that guests can continue to enjoy the magic of the other attractions and experiences it has to offer without compromising their safety.

With a plethora of theme parks, including the iconic Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park, and the immersive Animal Kingdom Park, visitors can still indulge in unforgettable adventures while Blizzard Beach receives the necessary hiatus until it can reopen safely.

The closure of Blizzard Beach serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and its impact on even the most well-prepared establishments. Walt Disney World Resort, known for its attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction, prioritizes the safety of its visitors above all else.

The decision to temporarily close Blizzard Beach is a testament to this dedication, ensuring that guests can feel secure and protected during their visit.

As guests eagerly await the reopening of Blizzard Beach, Walt Disney World Resort continues to monitor the weather conditions and work diligently to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Guests are encouraged to check the official Blizzard Beach calendar for updates on the reopening of Blizzard Beach and any additional information pertaining to their visit.

New Details Revealed for 2024 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

It may be winter according to the calendar, but spring is nearly blooming at Walt Disney World Resort. And nothing says springtime fun like the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival!

This year’s festival will begin on Feb. 28 and continue through May 27 for ninety days full of beautiful topiaries, inspirational gardens, delicious dishes and rockin’ music celebrating spring. From the tiniest tykes to the young at heart, there’s something for everyone!

Today we’re sharing more details, from new topiaries to acts coming to the Garden Rocks concert series. Let’s dig in!

New Topiaries to Enjoy

Each spring, we look forward to the astounding topiaries our Disney horticulture cast create for the festival.

This year, more than 70 topiaries, featuring a delightful array of Disney characters as well as other figures and whimsical items, will fill the park. As part of the topiary magic, guests can also look forward to seeing everyone’s favorite dragon, Figment, in the newly opened World Celebration Gardens.

Something else we’re excited to share: For the first time, Groot takes root at EPCOT! The flora colossus from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy will appear near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in World Discovery.

Also new this year, guests can look forward to viewing new topiaries from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Wish,” including Asha, Valentino and the Wishing Star, at the park’s main entrance. And in Mexico, we’re thrilled to share that Miguel and Dante from Disney Pixar’s “Coco” will take center stage!

Fresh Garden Rocks Concert Series

It’s time to dance and sing along to guest favorites as the popular Garden Rocks concert series takes to the American Gardens Theatre stage daily during the festival. Featuring local and globally recognized acts, there’s something for everyone.

This year, we’ll welcome new groups, including Modern English, Crowder, Lit, Monsieur Perine, and Fonseca. And for the first time, Raul Acosta & Oro Solido will share the stage with Magic Juan, then return the next day with Luisito Ayala and The Puerto Rican Power Band in a series of unforgettable performances.*

Garden Rocks Dining Packages Open Feb. 6

To guarantee priority seating for your preferred performances, be sure to check out Dining Packages, available at seven fabulous EPCOT restaurants:

  • Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
  • Biergarten Restaurant
  • Coral Reef Restaurant
  • Garden Grill Restaurant
  • Rose & Crown Dining Room
  • Le Cellier Steakhouse
  • Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Brews & Barbecue (same-day, in-person walk-up packages only)

For more information, including pricing and availability, visit DisneyWorld.com. Packages go on sale beginning Feb. 6.

Flavor Abounds at Outdoor Kitchens

It wouldn’t be an EPCOT festival without innovative and delicious dishes and drinks to savor! Stay tuned to Disney Travel News for the official Foodie Guide to EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival as we dish on all the new flavors coming to this year’s event, but in the meantime, we’re thrilled to share that many guest favorites will also return to Outdoor Kitchens located throughout the park.

We can’t wait to dig into Chicken & Waffles at The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by the National Honey Board! Also returning: the Muffuletta Panini at Magnolia Terrace and the Chocolate Whisky Cake at Northern Bloom.

Inspiration and Play: There’s Something for Everyone

Looking for interactive fun? At this year’s festival, the whole family can enjoy two seasonal scavenger hunts. Throughout the festival, follow Spike the Bee on his pollination trail where he’s “buzzing” to collect nectar from all the beautiful gardens with Spike’s Pollination Exploration. And for a limited time, guests can also hop around World Showcase for the Egg-stravaganza Hunt! Twelve beautiful, bunny-inspired eggs will be placed throughout the park; can guests find them all?

Both scavenger hunt maps will be available for purchase while supplies last. Once the journey is complete – whether or not guests find all the items – they can redeem their map at Disney Traders, Creations Shop or World Traveler at International Gateway for a special surprise.**

Also back this year, Butterfly Landing Presented by AdventHealth offers guests the chance to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most beautiful pollinators – butterflies! This walkthrough butterfly house highlights the lifecycle of butterflies and contains valuable pollinator gardens.

At Blossoms of Fragrance Presented by Scentsy, guests create lasting memories with the help of unforgettable fragrances. And new this year, guests will be able to bring home some of their favorite fragrances experienced at Blossoms of Fragrance!

Looking for a place to get a little energy out? At Camp Get Out N’ Play Garden Presented by OFF!, families can explore a camp-themed garden where kiddos can jump, play, climb and explore this area created just for them.

So, summon the flower power, because everything will be coming up roses at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival before we know it!

*Entertainment subject to change without notice.

**Redemption valid through May 27 or while supplies last.

Former School Board Member Stole $100K, Took Disney Vacations

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

Taking your family on a Walt Disney World Resort vacation is not something that a lot of people would consider inexpensive. Many people save for years to be able to experience the Most Magical Place on Earth. But how far would you go to get the money for your dream trip? Would you go so far as to steal from your job? Or from children?

On Thursday, January 11, former Miami-Dade School Board member, Lubby Navarro, was arrested. She was charged with stealing $100,000 from her former employer. She has been charged with grand theft and organized fraud.

According to NBC 6, trips to Disney World were just one way Navarro spent the tens of thousands of dollars she illegally obtained. The prosecutor’s office even included photographic evidence of some of the purchases Navarro allegedly made with the stolen funds:

The illegal purchases include more than $92,000 spent at retail stores like Walmart, Office Depot, Brandsmart and elsewhere on items including appliances, electronics, clothing, health and beauty products, household goods, home furnishings, food, and gift cards, [Miami-Dade State Attorney] Fernandez Rundle said.

Lubby Navarro

As part of her job, the 49-year-old Navarro was issued a credit card by the district. It was with this credit card that she made a number of unapproved and illegal purchases.

Ms. Navarro’s attorney has disputed the claims, saying his client is innocent:

“Ms. Navarro, an honorable government employee and former Member of the Miami-Dade School Board, has lived her life in service to the community. She has never before been accused of any wrongdoing and was given no opportunity to demonstrate her innocence in advance of her surprise arrest. She was not even provided the routine opportunity to allow her lawyer to surrender her as she fights these allegations,” read the statement from attorney Benedict P. Kuehne. “Ms. Navarro fully intends to prevail in this case. This effort to ruin her well-deserved reputation as an honest, properly motivated community servant will be shown to be unjust. Ms. Navarro looks forward to her complete vindication and her resumption of working for the betterment of the community. Ms. Navarro states without equivocation that she is innocent of wrongdoing and appreciates the many expressions of support and well wishes by those who know her best.”

Sadly, this is not the first time that is has reported on someone stealing massive amounts of money and using the funds to pay for trips to Disney.

Back in September, it was made public that a woman had stolen more than €150,000 — approximately $187,000 — from celebrity chef Stephen Terry. Nicola Nightingale had worked for Terry, serving as the administrator of his restaurant, The Hardwick. During the pandemic, Terry learned that Nightingale had stolen from him, and that his restaurant was tens of thousands of dollars in debt.

Family stole from Chef

In an even crazier instance, a former pastor is on the run and is one of the FBI’s most wanted criminals. Christopher W. Burns has been accused of stealing more than $10 million and using it to fund a luxury lifestyle. This included trips to Disney World, where he used Disney’s VIP tour service, to the amount of more than $8,000 per day.

Christopher Burns Pastor

Burns has been on the run for more than two years, and the FBI is still hoping to receive information on his whereabouts.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, former NASA executive, Andrew Tezna, stole more than $300,000 meant to help those in need. Tezna used a lot of that money to fund his love of Disney. This included paying to be a member of the Disney Vacation Club. Tezna pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison.

Sadly, people stealing from children, charities, and more appears to becoming more the norm.

Woman Arrested at Animal Kingdom Lodge After Biting Fellow Guest

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Resorts

For millions of families, a trip to Walt Disney World is something that is planned months or years in advance. It is something that they look forward to — plan where they are going to eat, where they are going to stay, and what rides and attractions they have to go on. Many do not think that their magical vacation will end with someone being taken away in handcuffs.

Unfortunately, for one family, that is exactly what happened.

According to recently released court records, officers from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office were called to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge on November 5, 2023. They were responding to a call of an altercation that broke out at the Deluxe Resort just after 1 a.m.

The police report states that one of the responding officers spoke to Patricia Casey and Anne Warren. Ms. Warren informed officers that she and her family were visiting the Resort to celebrate their father’s 96th birthday.

Ms. Warren said that, just after midnight, she returned to her resort hotel room, where she began to argue with her sister, Ms. Casey. Ms. Casey told police that Ms. Warren became aggressive and bit her on the arm. Yes, her sister bit her on the arm.

Mr. Warren denied biting her sister on the arm, saying that she only threw a suitcase. However, the officer did note that Ms. Casey did indeed have a red mark on her arm. A third sister was in the room, but said that she did not see the bite happen. The third sister said that she only saw the two women arguing.

Police stated that Ms. Casey “refused to prosecute, testify in court, or write a statement,” but she did sign a victim confidentiality statement. Ms. Warren, however, did provide police with a sworn verbal statement, as did the third sister.

Police deemed Anne Warren the “primary aggressor” and arrested her on charges of battery (domestic violence). She was put in a police car and booked into the local jail.

Animal Kingdom lodge fire

We do not know if Ms. Warren, or any members of her family, were issued a trespass notice. Disney takes acts of violence very seriously and will not hesitate to ban a guest if they behave in a dangerous or violent manner.

Disney Announces Opening of New Walt Disney World Location

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

Excitement is in the air as Disney Springs, the vibrant shopping and entertainment district at Walt Disney World Resort, welcomes a new addition to its lineup of magical retail experiences. In a surprising and delightful announcement, Disney revealed that a renowned lifestyle brand known for its preppy and coastal-inspired fashion is opening a store at Disney Springs. This collaboration promises to bring a touch of seaside charm to the heart of Disney magic.

Fans are thrilled to learn that Vinyard Vines, the popular clothing store, will be setting up shop at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World Resort. Vineyard Vines, founded by brothers Shep and Ian Murray, has become synonymous with the “Good Life” – a philosophy centered around relaxation, enjoyment, and a sense of style that effortlessly blends comfort and sophistication. As the brand sets its sights on Disney Springs, visitors can expect an infusion of coastal vibes and a selection of apparel that captures the essence of laid-back luxury.

Disney Springs has long been a destination for those seeking a diverse and immersive shopping experience. With its unique blend of Disney-themed merchandise, high-end fashion, and eclectic boutiques, the addition of Vineyard Vines adds a distinctive flavor to the mix. The brand’s signature whale logo and iconic designs are set to make a splash in the already vibrant retail landscape.

The arrival of Vineyard Vines at Disney Springs is not just about shopping; it’s about creating memorable moments for visitors. The store’s inviting ambiance, paired with the brand’s commitment to a positive shopping experience, is set to elevate the overall atmosphere of Disney Springs, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of coastal charm and Disney enchantment.

As anticipation builds for the grand opening, Disney Springs is gearing up for a celebration that befits the arrival of Vineyard Vines. While no date has been set, fans are hoping to learn more soon.

wdw resort lake

The collaboration between Vineyard Vines and Disney Springs marks a delightful fusion of coastal elegance and Disney magic. As the store opens its doors, visitors can look forward to discovering a unique shopping experience that captures the spirit of the brand while surrounded by the enchantment of Walt Disney World Resort.