Mission: SPACE at Epcot Offers New Out of This World Experiences
New Experiences Coming to Mission Space at Epcot
Starting Aug. 13, 2017, Epcot will relaunch Mission: SPACE with a brand new experience and an enhanced version with 2 very different experiences.
Orange Mission: a truly intense experience that lets you feel the force of an actual space launch en route to Mars. On this mission, you’ll dodge meteoroids, slingshot around the moon and attempt a precision landing on the Red Planet’s alien surface. This “mission” has been enhanced with new, HD video to make it even clearer.
Green Mission: a new, family friendly mission that takes you on an exciting orbit around Earth. On this new adventure, you’ll take in sites like the Hawaiian Islands, Italy’s “boot” and the Northern Lights—as seen from space. Before finally landing at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The height restriction has been changed for the Green Mission side with the addition of new X-2 booster seats allowing children 40-44” to ride.
By Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations.
Space Themed Restaurant Coming to Epcot
Disney unveiled plans to create a new restaurant at Epcot that’ll offer amazing meals with spectacular views high above Earth – from space!
The restaurant, which will be located adjacent to the park’s Mission: SPACE attraction, will invite guests to travel into space for amazing dining experiences in the stars.
EPCOT: New Ride for France Pavilion
Epcot to get a new Ratatouille ride.
Disney announced this week that a Disney•Pixar’s “Ratatouille”-inspired attraction will also be added to the France Pavilion in World Showcase. The attraction will expand the pavilion. Similar to the 4-D attraction Ratatouille: The Adventure that opened at the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris in 2014, guests will be able to shrink to Remy’s size and scurry to safety in a dazzling chase across a kitchen with the sights, sounds and smells of Gusteau’s legendary Parisian restaurant. The ride is expected to open in 2021.
It's expected that the Epcot version will be similar to Ratatouille at Disneyland Paris.
EPCOT: Guardians of the Galaxy to Replace Universe of Energy
Epcot’s newest E-ticket attraction will be based on the world of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and is the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney says this attraction adheres to the original vision of Epcot’s Future World as the place to experience the excitement and adventure offered by space travel. What do you think?
This new attraction will replace the current Universe of Energy attraction, which will close August 13, 2017). The new ride is expected to be ready in time for Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary in 20121.
New Epcot Dessert Party Available Today!
Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot
Starting July 17, 2017 there will be a new way to experience “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” at Epcot. Reservations open today, June 15, 2017, for the new Frozen Ever After Dessert Party, plus a special opportunity to enjoy the Frozen Ever After attraction!
The party, overlooks World Showcase Lagoon and feature décor, drinks, desserts and snacks inspired by the beloved film, “Frozen.” Frozen Ever After Dessert Party Guests will have reserved seating. Specialty cotton candy lemonade or “melted snow” and other non-alcoholic beverages will be offered to Guests of all ages. Adults 21 years and older can enjoy alcoholic beverages such as a piña colada, margarita or “Summertime Punch,” a refreshing blend of prickly pear syrup, vodka, lemonade and ginger ale.
After “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” Guests of the Frozen Ever After Dessert Party will be escorted to the Norway Pavilion for a special ride on the popular Frozen Ever After attraction.
The Frozen Ever After Dessert Party is $79 for Guests ages 10 and above, $47 for ages 3 to 9—tax and gratuity included. Reservations are now open for dates beginning July 17, 2017 and can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
Disney on Broadway Stars Coming to Epcot International Festival of the Arts
In collaboration with Disney Theatrical Productions, Epcot's new festival brings a showcase of favorite music and Broadway talent to the America Gardens Theatre stage. Throughout the six weekends of the festival, different pairings of Broadway artists will perform songs from some of Disney on Broadway’s award winning shows.
I'm excited to share the lineup of performers for this brand new series:
- Jan. 13-16 and 20-23: Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland performing songs from: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Mary Poppins and The Little Mermaid
- Jan. 27-30 and Feb. 3-6: Kerry Butler and Kevin Massey performing songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Newsies and Aladdin
- Feb. 10-13 and 17-20: Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White performing songs from Disney’s The Lion King, Aida, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid.
Performances will be at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday through Monday of each festival weekend.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a "Best of the Best" Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
New Dining Experience Coming to Epcot
Today I'm pleased to share with you that Epcot will be getting new outdoor tequileria just outside the Mexico pavilion. Starting soon, you'll be able visit Choza Tequila that will specialize in hand-crafted margaritas and classic Mexican cuisine like tacos, empanadas, chips and fresh guacamole.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a "Best of the Best" Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Enjoy These New Epcot Experiences - Festival of the Arts
Over the six weekends of the festival, beginning Jan. 13, 2017 at Walt Disney World Resort, you can sign up for interactive workshops like the Gesture Drawing Class, led by former Disney animator Todd Bright. Gesture drawing of people is foundational practice for animators, storyboard artists, and directors. A single drawing tells a story. Todd’s Story Telling Drawings class will teach you the art of quick sketching from life.
Other select workshops include watercolor painting, mixed media art, calligraphy and floral arrangements. The Interactive Workshops are $39+tax each Friday-Monday of the Festival.
Also available are meal and performance combos: a breakfast, lunch or dinner, followed by a Disney on Broadway inspired concert – nightly during the Festival from Jan. 13 – Feb. 20, 2017.
The concert series will pair Broadway talent with favorite songs from award-winning Disney shows such as “The Lion King,” “Newsies” and “Aladdin”. The Dining package includes a three-course meal or full buffet and priority seating at the 8:00 p.m. concert at participating Epcot restaurants. Prices range from $39-$69+ tax for adults, $23-$41+tax for children.
The festival runs Fridays through Mondays starting Jan. 13–Feb. 20, 2017.
Book one of these select experiences by calling 407-WDW-PLAY
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a "Best of the Best" Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
All-New Epcot International Festival of the Arts
A brand new event is coming to Walt Disney World Resort! The Epcot International Festival of the Arts debuts Jan. 13 – Feb. 20, 2017. It’ll be a trifecta of global masterpieces: combining visual, culinary and performing arts for six colorful weekends.
Over the six weeks of the festival, you can enjoy different pairings of phenomenal Broadway talent in concert singing the award-winning music of Disney on Broadway. Plus, you'll feast on delicious creations that look almost too good to eat.
The Epcot International Festival of the Arts will run Fridays through Mondays, and unveil brand new art each week.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
See Who's Coming to Candlelight at Epcot This Year
Candlelight Epcot 2016 Narrators
A few months ago, I shared a preview of the narrators scheduled for the Candlelight Processional at Epcot. And now, I'm excited to announce more narrators for the 2016 Candlelight Processional.
Celebrity Narrators scheduled to make appearances this year include (subject to change without notice):
Nov. 25-27 – Steven Curtis Chapman
Nov. 28-Dec. 1 – Neil Patrick Harris (will draw large crowds - arrive at least 90 min.early)
Dec. 2-3 – Whoopi Goldberg (will draw large crowds - arrive at least 90 min.early)
Dec. 4*-6 – Edward James Olmos
Dec. 7-9 – TBA
Dec. 10-12 – Robby Benson
Dec. 13-15 – Meredith Vieira
Dec. 16-18 – Jim Caviezel
Dec. 19-21 – Joe Morton
Dec. 22-24 – Ming-Na Wen – NEW!
Dec. 25-27 – Jodi Benson
Dec. 28-30 – Cal Ripken, Jr. – NEW!
The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the American Gardens Theatre. Dining packages are available on select nights and include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.
Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $27 plus tax per person for adults and $14 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $47 plus tax per person for adults and $20 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.
>> View Magical Deals at select Walt Disney World hotels
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
2016 Epcot Food & Wine Fest Highlights
A new lineup of popular celebrity chefs and a series of first-time Disney resort cooking and dining experiences will add culinary appeal to the 21st Epcot International Food & Wine Festival when it returns to Walt Disney World Resort Sept. 14-Nov. 14, 2016. View Special Resort Hotel offers currently available
- Geoffrey Zakarian
- Maneet Chauhan
- Duff Goldman
- Elliott Farmer
- Masaharu Morimoto
- Graham Elliot
- Robert Irvine
- Cat Cora
- Norman Van Aken
- Elizabeth Falkner
- Buddy Valastro
- Jamie Deen
For a second consecutive year, ABC’s Emmy-Award-winning lifestyle series, “The Chew” will arrive to produce a full week of programs on the show’s exclusive Epcot festival stage.
And, for the first time, you can enjoy the following festival experiences at Walt Disney World Resort hotels:
“Brunch with a Twist at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa” — a sumptuous 5-star, 5-course meal prepared by the resort’s award-winning chefs
“The Secrets of Flavor at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort” — a three-course lunch that gives you a ‘sensory-food connection’ at Yachtsman Steakhouse
“Culinary Adventures with a Master Chef” at Disney’s Contemporary Resort — a hands-on chef’s table experience in a professional working kitchen
“Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto” at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort — an entertaini ng tour of the whimsical Trader Sam’s, followed by lunch and a special mixology session
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Book The Living Seas Pavilion for your next event
How would you like to book your special event inside The Living Seas Pavilion at Epcot? This dynamic private event venue serves as the perfect backdrop for an elegant dinner or awards presentation and can accommodate up to 500 attendees. The Living Seas Pavilion boasts a 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium that holds over three thousand varieties of sea life, there is plenty to see at this one-of-a-kind space
Living Seas Salon Lounge
Just steps away from the attraction floor is the Living Seas Salon Lounge, one of the most sophisticated and astounding event venues. The room flows with soft and curving lines, representing of the motion of the sea. Acrylic panels line the walls to display the ever-changing backdrop as guests explore the variety of sea life.
Imagine how magical would it be to have your event here!
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
NEW! Shanghai Disneyland Exhibit in Epcot
New Epcot exhibit features Shanghai Disneyland
One of my favorite things to do at Epcot is to explore the cultural exhibits in World Showcase. They are usually tucked away in a quiet, off-the-beaten-path area of the pavilions but inside you'll discover a museum quality display of artifacts.
Here in Epcot's China pavilion you can now get a taste of the world’s newest Disney Park with the “Inside Shanghai Disney Resort” exhibit. It has just opened its doors in the House of the Whispering Willows Gallery.
The gallery showcases exclusive artwork, as well as a look at the classic and cutting-edge attractions within Shanghai Disneyland’s six lands of fantasy and thrilling adventure.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Big Change to Epcot Candlelight Processional 2016
2016 Candlelight Processional at Epcot
Epcot Holidays Around the World, including the Candlelight Processional, run November 25 – December 30, 2016
The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the American Gardens Theatre. These packages, available on select nights, include a meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. A candlelight meal package is highly recommended to avoid a long standby queue but availability is limited.
This year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite Epcot restaurants like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk.
Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $27 plus tax per person for adults and $14 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $47 plus tax per person for adults and $20 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Frozen Ever After FastPass Available Today - What You Need to Know
Today (May 21, 2016) FastPass+ becomes available for the new Frozen Ever After attraction at Epcot. Frozen Ever After will officially open on June 21, 2016 at 9 A.M.
I shared with you earlier this week that FastPass selections will now open at 7am. Eastern Time each day. Previously guests could make selections at midnight ET, or 3am PT if you lived on the west coast. This is more convenient I think - it give the advantage to the early birds (like me) not the night owls.
Related:
Sneak Peek: Frozen Ever After Attraction at Epcot
Epcot's Frozen attraction takes you up the North Mountain
More Details on the Opening of Frozen Ever After
Finally, Frozen Characters Come to Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park
Where to Find the Frozen Characters at Walt Disney World
Frozen Ever After - Epcot
Of course this big news is that Frozen Ever After boat ride is opening June 21, 2016. Fastpasses are now available! Disney promises you'll be singing "Let it Go" long after you exit the attraction. Remind you of another Disney boat ride with a catchy tune?
MORE PLACES TO MEET ANNA, ELSA, Olaf and Christoff
ROYAL SOMMERHUS OPENING
The royal sisters will be available for greeting opportunities at the new Royal Sommerhus located next to the Frozen Ever After Attraction inside Epcot.
FESTIVAL OF FANTASY PARADE
You can also spot Anna and Elsa over at Magic Kingdom Park in the “Festival of Fantasy Parade” each day at 3pm.
NEW CASTLE STAGE SHOW - MICKEY'S ROYAL FRIENDSHIP FAIRE
And the new “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” show coming to Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage at the Magic Kingdom. Check the My Disney Experience app for the latest locations and times for any Disney Character.
Olaf and christoff at DISNEY'S BLIZZARD BEACH WATER PARK
This summer, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park at the Walt Disney World Resort will play host to the inaugural Frozen Games where you can meet Christoff and Olaf from Frozen.
Frozen sing-a-long Celebration
Join your Frozen friends—like Anna, Elsa and the newly-appointed royal historians of Arendelle—for a sing-a-long stage show at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Soarin' Over California Returning to Epcot
Epcot Guests will enjoy farewell flights when the classic Soarin’ returns to The Land pavilion in Future World starting May 27, 2016. The attraction reopens at Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort before the new film, Soarin’ Around the World, debuts next month Disney parks in Shanghai, California and Florida.
Disney FastPass+ service will be available starting today for this limited opportunity to enjoy the classic Soarin’ experience at Epcot.
The new film, Soarin’ Around the World, debuts June 17 at Epcot.
Related:
FastPass Date Set for new Soarin' Around the World at Epcot
Behind the Scenes: Making Soarin' Around the World
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialistat Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
Royal Sommerhus Opening Date Set
As recently shared, the highly anticipated meet and greet area with Anna and Elsa will be opening June 21, 2016 at Epcot. FastPass+ for the Royal Sommerhus are not yet available. Anna and Elsa will also make appearances over at Magic Kingdom Park in the new "Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire" castle stage show.
Related:
Disability Access Service at Walt Disney World
The Disability Access Service (DAS) at Walt Disney World is available if a disability makes it difficult to wait in a conventional queue environment, providing the opportunity to receive a return time similar to the posted wait time for the given attraction. Once you receive a return time, you are free to enjoy other theme park offerings such as meeting a character, grabbing a bite to eat, enjoying entertainment or even visiting another attraction until your designated
return time. This service can be used in addition to Disney FastPass+ service.
If you need any assistance during your upcoming visit, including issuance of the DAS, please visit a Guest Relations location once you arrive at any Disney Park. Our Guest Relations Cast Members will work directly with you to discuss your overall needs, and they are ready to help.
In the meantime, to help you plan your visit, we've developed a guide for our Guests with Disabilities that provides pertinent information as well as answers to many Frequently Asked Questions. You can access this guide by visiting the following link:
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilitie
s
More Details on the Opening of Frozen Ever After
UPDATE: Frozen Ever After will premiere June 21, 2016 at Epcot
Recently I shared with you that Disney added Frozen Ever After to the Epcot attraction page on the official website. In various literature from Disney we are learning that the opening date will be set sometime in June. Prior to this we were reading that Frozen Ever After would opening "this summer." Disney has also hinted that guests will be singing "Let it Go" long after they exit the attraction, so it would appear this cinematic hit will be featured.
Related
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World