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  • Home
  • Six Flags
  • Universal Studios
  • Disney Parks
  • SeaWorld Parks
  • Other Parks
  • Beyond The Parks
  • Industry News
  • Cruise Journey
  • Cedar Fair (Legacy)
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  • The Other Side of the Tracks
  • Contact Us
Past Updates
  • Past Updates
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  • Published on
    December 21, 2016

    Holidays Around The (Walt Disney) World - Part 3

    Candlelight Processional Disney Parks EPCOT Walt Disney World World Showcase
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    Today we wrap up all of our Holiday coverage with our 3rd update of the Holidays around Walt Disney World. We may have additional updates from park visits over the next week or so but we are taking a much needed break after Friday's update. 

    ​So we hope you enjoy this last look at the holidays at EPCOT as they are truly magical. If you missed any of our Holiday updates you can find them here. 
    ​Written by Renée Girard
    It's a crisp December afternoon of 85 degrees at Epcot today.
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    Joyful! a holiday gospel performance takes place several times a day in Future World at Epcot.
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    The Epcot Holidays Around the World food and drink booths tend to have way shorter lines compared to the Food and Wine Festival.
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    We'll be at the 5pm Candlelight Processional with guest narrator Meredith Vieira tonight.
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    Fun fact: on some of the collars of members on the cast choir of the Candlelight Processional, there's a hidden Mickey!
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    Meredith Vieira was an excellent narrator, despite technical problems that halted the show for 10-15 min. Gotta love live theatre!
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    Starting the food/drink portion of the night with an Arctic Kiss Hot Chocolate. No photo of the actual drink, it was too delicious to save!
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    New room in Japan's Mitsukoshi store in Epcot has some awesome looking toys and collectible figures.
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    I might have bought this. Because who doesn't want R2-H16 under their Christmas tree!
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    Got the yummy cheese fondue from Frocco, as the CM called it (between France & Morocco). Hope this isn't too sensitive for Twitter again!
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    Stopped by the bakery in France for their holiday treat, Buche de Noel au Chocolat. ​
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    This photo doesn't do it justice, but the moon looks amazing tonight over Epcot's World Showcase Lagoon.
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    I'm not usually an eggnog fan, but the Shipyard eggnog beer from the American pavilion is very good!
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    Prost! Trying the German Artisan Cheese Plate in Germany. I could eat cheese all day and definitely enjoyed this one
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    I seem to keep missing the holiday storytellers around the world but caught part of the one in Germany about the nutcracker.
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    On to the Feast of the Three Kings for what the booth is named for, Three Kings Bread. Good stuff!
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    Holiday Eats & Treats is already selling out of items! We had the Shipyard Cinnamon Bun Nut Brown Ale last week. It was sweet!
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    So in the Craft Beer building last week, there were 8 beers on tap. I skipped it then but went back tonight and only 4 are left. ​
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    Of course that didn't stop me from getting all 4 but I regret not getting it last week too!
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    Goodnight Epcot!
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    ​Related Updates: 
    • Disneyland Resort Update - Avengers Half Marathon, Star Wars Land and Tower of Terror
    • The Disney California Adventure that could have been 
    • Fun at the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival 2016
    • Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom
    • Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Part One and Part Two
    ​If you enjoyed this update please share with your friends and make sure you "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

    If you have any comments, please share them below
  • Published on
    December 19, 2016

    Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort 

    2017 Attractions 2018 Attractions Fast And Furious: Supercharged Grinchmas Harry Potter And The Forbidden Journey Hogwarts Islands Of Adventure Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon Universal Orlando Universal Studios Florida Wizarding World
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    We're getting down to it everybody, the big Christmas celebration is in less than a week. We hope you're getting those last minute preparations ready, it's probably the last day to order stuff on Amazon to get stuff delivered in time and the stores are gonna be packed with procrastinators. 
    OR ... you can just sit back with a nice cup of cocoa or peppermint mocha and enjoy this great update from the Holidays at Unviersal Orlando Resort. 
    Written by Renée Girard
    Spending the afternoon at Universal Orlando to see what's going on for the holidays!
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    Picking up the new Starbucks mug from Universal Orlando too!
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    The weather is perfect and wait times are short at Islands of Adventure.
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    Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure always looks fun and festive this time of year.
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    We stopped by to meet the Grinch before going to his show.
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    Going to see the Grinchmas show at Islands of Adventure. Feels like HHN, as we go into one of the sound stages.
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    The performers in Grinchmas do a terrific job recreating the characters. And Max is adorable!
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    Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey is closed for most of December at Islands of Adventure, but guests can still walk through the queue.
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    Now on to Universal Studios for the Macy's Holiday Parade!
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    Mannheim Steamroller will be in concert Universal Orlando weekends in December.
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    Construction on Race Through New York with Jimmy Fallon.
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    Construction over at the Fast & Furious Ride, with the Scooby Doo ballon.
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    Universal Orlando has recently been testing Return Time Tickets, which you can book on the app or at a kiosk, currently only for Shrek 4D.
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    Ending our day at Universal Orlando with the Macy's Holiday Parade!
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    I love all of the unique floats, characters and balloons that are part of the parade.
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    All of your favorite Universal characters make appearances in the holiday parade too!
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    ​The Macy's Holiday Parade balloons are huge in person!
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    Once Santa gets to the Christmas tree along the parade, the lights come on. Looks great!
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    The holiday experiences at Universal Orlando are always a lot of fun to see. We had a great day! ​
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    Related Updates: 
    • Grinchmas 2016 at Universal Studios Hollywood
    • LAIKA Experiencing returning to Universal Studios Hollywood
    • Photo Tour of Universal Studios Florida
    • Photo Tour of Islands of Adventure 
    • Hot Butterbeer now featured at Universal Studios Hollywood
    ​If you enjoyed this update please share with your friends and make sure you "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

    If you have any comments, please share them below
  • Published on
    December 14, 2016

    Grinchmas 2016 at Universal Studios Hollywood

    Grinchmas Harry Potter Harry Potter And The Forbidden Journey Hogwarts Studio Tour Universal Citywalk Universal Studios Hollywood Wizarding World
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    As we get closer to the holidays we start to wrap up our holiday season coverage and today we are checking out one of the best events in SoCal, Grinchmas at Universal Studios Hollywood. 
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    The event has definitely changed over the years due to the huge changes at the park. Most of the events are centered in Unviersal Plaza and the Studio Tour which is great. Lots of great fun to be had. 
    Written by Gregg Condon
    Welcome to Grinchmas at Universal Studios Hollywood
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    Not only were we there to celebrate Grinchmas, but also our 21st anniversary. Did I marry up or what? ;) 
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    Woah, Cartooniversal is GONE which gives a unique view of Wizarding World. For now. 
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    It was a busy morning in Wizarding World. 
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    One of the coolest things about Wizarding World ... no matter how many times we visit we always see one person each time in house robes and in tears being overwhelmed by Wizarding World. It's awesome to see. And people still think they don't need Wizarding World on both coasts. 
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    We decided to take it easy and have some breakfast and Hot Butterbeer at Three Broomsticks. 
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    So many Wholiday Events in Universal Plaza. 
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    We had already had tickets for the LA Kings game that afternoon so we took a little break from the park to head down to Staples to take in the Hockey game. A look at the decorations in CityWalk. 
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    Down at the Hockey game, which is just a short 8 mile drive from Universal. Of course, with LA Traffic it still takes awhile to get down there. 
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    50th Anniversary mural. Yes, that is Luuuuuuc taking pics with fans.

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    Man, I really did marry above my station. ;)

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    Not bad seats at all

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    The best mascot in sports

    After a fun game (lots of goals and fights) it was time to head back to Universal. 
    The new Cinema looks fantastic
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    Absolutely love the entry plaza all lit up
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    It's still just amazing how much this park has changed over the past few years. 
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    Even Shrek 4D looks great all lit up. 
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    We had to go check out the Grinchmas show on the Studio Tour, and were greated by a special guest while in line. 
    Believe it or not, this was the first time we'd done the Studio Tour at night. 
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    Looks so great at night. 
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    Fire Good!! 
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    The Grinchmas show is lots of fun. 
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    Of course the Grinch has got to come out and try and ruin Christmas. 
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    Always such a weird transition from Grinch to Psycho. 
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    #Stinkpickle 
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    Cheers!!
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    Let's check out the rest of the holiday decorations on the upper lot. 
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    Grinchmas Tree Lighting show
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    Lots of fun Who stuff to do
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    A private party was about to happen, our invite must have been lost in the mail. ;) 
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    Back in CityWalk, Kong with his Santa Hat
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    We were reminscing that when we first started dating shortly after CityWalk opened it was never busy, they've really turned this into a destination place for locals and tourists and it's great to see. 
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    And that's gonna wrap it up for our Grinchmas update from Universal Studios Hollywood. It's definitely a great event that you should definitely check out. Click here for more info on Grinchmas. 

    After the first of the year we'll get back to having normal updates from goings on around the park. Happy Wholidays!! 
    Related Updates: 
    • LAIKA Experiencing returning to Universal Studios Hollywood
    • Experiencing HHN Hollywood in a Wheelchair
    • Photo Tour of Universal Studios Florida
    • Photo Tour of Islands of Adventure 
    • Hot Butterbeer now featured at Universal Studios Hollywood
    ​If you enjoyed this update please share with your friends and make sure you "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

    If you have any comments, please share them below
  • Published on
    December 13, 2016

    Christmas Celebration 2016 at SeaWorld Orlando

    2016 Attractions Christmas Celebration Mako SeaWorld SeaWorld Orlando
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    Today it's time for another great holiday update from Florida as we take a look at Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld Orlando. 

    Lots of new things to see for 2016 including new food, cool night rides on Mako and Bumble!!

    Click here for more information on Christmas Celebration. 
    Written by Renée Girard
    Tonight we're at SeaWorld Orlando for the Christmas Celebration! ​
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    First stop is to visit Rudolph's Christmastown.
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    Rudolph and Clarice are great and all... but the line is long and I want to meet Bumble!
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    Yes! I got a Bumble hug! Love this new addition to SeaWorld Christmas this year!
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    The Rudolph and friends area for the SeaWorld Christmas Celebration is super cute.
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    Now on to the food and drinks! I highly recommend the sampler packages, if you want to try a little bit of everything!
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    They have an awesome selection of beer! I can't get everything tonight so I'm pretty sure I'll be getting a sampler next time too
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    There is a good amount of food offered for the celebration SeaWorld. I opted for the poutine and why not, more beer.
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    You can enjoy the Sea of Trees and holiday entertainment next to the fire @SeaWorld Christmas Celebration.
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    Dessert time! The popular s'mores are back, this time in a cone. Messy, but delicious!
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    If ice skating shows are your thing, Winter Wonderland on Ice is one of the best around!
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    Santa, sandwiches and drinks? The Terrace has what you want!
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    Didn't catch O Wondrous Night tonight but have in the past, and it's an excellent, original show.
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    Walk on night rides for Mako, amazing! And it's in the 50s tonight in Orlando, makes for a great ride!
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    The Christmas lights along the Waterfront area are simply beautiful.
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    The holiday village with all of the food, drinks, shopping and entertainment is always my favorite part of SeaWorld at Christmas.
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    We'll close out the night with Shamu Christmas Miracles.
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    Shamu is cool but the star of Shamu Christmas Miracles is the gospel singer and sax player.
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    Snowflakes on the waterfront as we head out of the park.
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    Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld Orlando runs weekends in Dec. We'll be back here tomorrow morning for the Reindeer Run 5k!
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    Good morning! We are back at SeaWorld for the Reindeer Run 5k! ​
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    Around 4000 runners are ready to run a 5k through SeaWorld for the annual Reindeer Run!
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    Congrats to all who participated in the Reindeer Run SeaWorld ! We had a blast!
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    ​Related Updates: 
    • Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando
    • Opening night at Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 
    • SeaWorld San Antonio announces Wave Breaker for 2017
    • SeaWorld Orlando announces new attractions for 2017
    • Coaster Crusade at Busch Gardens Tampa and SeaWorld Orlando
    ​If you enjoyed this update please share with your friends and make sure you "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

    If you have any comments, please share them below
  • Published on
    December 9, 2016

    Holiday Event Reviews and Information 

    Looking for a review or information for a 2016 Holiday event? Well look no further. Below you will find reviews of Holiday events we have attended and a list of all of the other events that we've received information for. We will be updating this as we receive information about additional events. 
    ​Updates and Reviews 
    Click links to see updates once they are posted
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    Holiday In The Park - Six Flags Magic Mountain
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    Holiday In The Park - Six Flags Great Adventure 

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    LA Zoo Lights - Los Angeles Zoo

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    Knott's Merry Farm - Knott's Berry Farm 

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    WinterFest - California's Great America 

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    Reindeer Romp - Los Angeles Zoo 

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    Holidays Around The (Walt Disney) World (Part One)

    Holidays Around The (Walt Disney) World (Part Two) 

    Holidays Around The (Walt Disney) World (Part Three) 

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    Chill - Queen Mary

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    Christmas Celebration - SeaWorld Orlando
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    Grinchmas - Universal Studios Hollywood 

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    The Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort
    Event Information 
    • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - Christmas Town returns on November 25
    • Knott's Berry Farm - Active Fire and Law Personnel get free admission on select days in Nov, Dec, Jan
    • Knott's Berry Farm - Knott's Merry Farm returns on November 19
    • Knott's Berry Farm - Ring in the New Year at Knott's Berry Farm
    • Legoland, CA - Holiday Celebration begins on November 25
    • Los Angeles Zoo - Zoo Lights begins on November 18
    • Los Angeles Zoo - Reindeer Romp begins on November 19
    • SeaWorld Orlando - Ring in the New Year at Sea World Orlando
    • SeaWorld Orlando - Christmas Celebration begins on November 25
    • SeaWorld San Diego - Christmas Celebration begins on November 19
    • Six Flags Great Adventure - Holiday In The Park Begins on November 19
    • Six Flags Magic Mountain - Food Drive Being Held on November 21
    • Six Flags Magic Mountain - Holiday In The Park and new VR Coaster begins on November 19
    • Universal Studios Hollywood - Grinchmas Begins on December 3 
    • Universal Orlando Resort - Holiday Celebration begins on December 3
    ​Related Updates: 
    • IAAPA 2016 Wrap-Up and Park Journey "Awards" 
    • SFMM Justice League Update #1
    • Experiencing HHN Hollywood in a Wheelchair
    • Disneyland Resort Update: Avengers Half Marathon, Star Wars Land, Guardians Tower
    • 2016 Haunt Season Wrap-Up 
    ​If you enjoyed this update please share with your friends and make sure you "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

    If you have any comments, please share them below
  • Published on
    December 8, 2016

    Holidays Around The (Walt Disney) World - Part 2

    Candlelight Processional Disney Parks Disney Springs Downtown Disney EPCOT Holidays Around The World Walt Disney World World Showcase
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    Welcome to our second look a the Holidays around Walt Disney World. When we last left our world travellers Renee was about to take the stage with Neil Patrick Harris and we wondered just what would happen next. 

    As expected, the event went off without a hitch and it was a beautiful evening enjoyed by all. So let's just pick up with this beautiful holiday tradition. If you missed our first update earlier this week, click here to check it out. 
    ​Written by Renée Girard
    Epcot's Candlelight Processional is a perfect holiday tradition. Neil Patrick Harris is always such a wonderful narrator.
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    Time to eat around the world! Stopped back at Alpine Haus for some delicious and filling cheese fondue! ​
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    Editors Note: Apparently Twitter thinks the Cheese Fondue at EPCOT is sensitive material. I mean, it's amazing, but not THAT amazing (if you know what I mean). ;)
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    At Feast of the Three Kings, I had to try the coquito. So good!
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    ​Seasonal Southern looks to have some tasty treats. Getting a little stuffed already but will definitely be back!
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    Crazy Elf looks like another drink we'll have to try next time too! ​
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    The bakery at Norway has one of the best desserts I've had in a while, pumpkin cheesecake with chocolate topped with pumpkin seeds!
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    I've seen plenty of ugly Christmas sweaters but never an ugly Christmas suit. Most impressive!
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    Editors Note: The flip-flops really complete the ensemble. ;)

    Had a lovely evening celebrating the holidays at Epcot. We'll be back to see more soon!
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    Enjoying a lovely morning on the water at Disney's Boardwalk Resort.
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    Lots of holiday treats available at the general store at Disney's Boardwalk.
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    The Boardwalk Bakery is one of my favorite places in WDW! ​
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    Pumpkin streusel muffin and coffee from the Boardwalk Bakery to start the day.
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    Going to see what holiday offerings are at Disney Springs tonight!
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    Decorations from all of the holidays for the season line the sidewalks of Disney Springs
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    The decorations in the Town Center of Disney Springs look beautiful!
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    Dining at Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar tonight!
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    Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar has some holiday specials as well as a happy hour menu.
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    The view outside while dining at Jock Lindsey's during sunset is quite nice.
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    Reggie's Revenge is one of my favorite drinks to get at the Hangar Bar.
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    It's a little pricey, but all of the small plate dishes we tried at Jock Lindsey's were very good!
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    At the Disney Springs Welcome Center, we picked up booklets to play Stitch's Holiday Gift Hunt.
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    Some of the beautifully delicious holiday treats at Amorette's Patisserie. ​
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    Saw both showings of tonight's Starbright Holidays show from two different locations. A really cool, creative little show!
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    ​One of the Intel Shooting Star drones from Starbright Holidays on display at Disney's Pin Traders. The technology they do is awesome!
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    ​New this year at Disney Springs is the Christmas Tree Trail, over in the marketplace next to Once Upon a Toy.
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    All of the Christmas trees along the trail are themed to some of the classic Disney animated movies.
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    Editors Note: Nice Mickey Ears Renée !! ;)

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    The Christmas trees aren't anything amazing or flashy, but I'm a fan of anything Christmas-y, so I enjoyed them.
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    Christmas tunes to sing and dance along to, thanks to the DJ at the Disney Springs marketplace.
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    Always love seeing the holiday touches added to the Disney parks and resorts. Disney Springs looks great!
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    Ending the evening with Sprinkles cupcakes. Seasonal flavors are chocolate peppermint and gingerbread. So good!!
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    ​Related Updates: 
    • Disneyland Resort Update - Avengers Half Marathon, Star Wars Land and Tower of Terror
    • The Disney California Adventure that could have been 
    • Fun at the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival 2016
    • Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom
    • Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Part One and Part Two
    ​If you enjoyed this update please share with your friends and make sure you "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

    If you have any comments, please share them below
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