Disney | Love Dwells Here

Jennifer May 7, 2024 Disney

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party | 2024

Always a favorite, the beloved Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is back again for 2024!!! The Halloween fun at Walt Disney World starts in just 3(!) short months, and while it’s not imperative that you buy tickets immediately, it’s a great idea to start planning your trip. Check out our favorite “Not So Scary” tips and tricks so that you’re prepared for all the thrills and chills that the Magic Kingdom has to offer. (updated May 7, 2024)

This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!) if you purchase when you click on the links. Thank you for supporting Love Dwells Here!!

MICKEY’S NOT SO SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a hard ticket event that runs on select nights from August 9 – October 31, 2024, and guests can enter the park as early as 4pm! There’s something for everyone, with 38 available dates and pre-tax ticket prices ranging from $119 to $199 (depending on the date). Tickets are on sale now for guests with resort reservations, and May 15 for everyone! Dates don’t typically start selling out until late June/early July, and historically, Halloween is the first night to sell out.

August: 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30

September: 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29

October: 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31

2024 NOT SO SCARY MILITARY TICKETS??

Will there be military tickets for Not So Scary this year?? Yes, there will!! And this year, there’s no waiting for details. In a surprising move, WDW is offering military discounts for most nights of the party this year (everything except for Halloween – and Halloween tickets are ONLY sold through Disney). However, they’re nowhere near the discounts available in the past – the biggest advantage is that the tickets are tax-free.

In order to take advantage of these discounts, which are only available to active, reserve, retired, and 100% disabled (with DAVPRM code) military members, the ID holder/spouse must purchase tickets in person at Shades of Green or via email at tickets@shadesofgreenresort.zendesk.com. All tickets purchased at Shades of Green, whether they’re party tickets, Military Salute tickets, Stars and Stripes tickets, or MYW tickets, are tax-free. And now for the pricing; like regular party tickets, pricing is dependent on the party date:

Adult $117/Child (3-9) $107: 8/13, 8/16, 8/20, 8/23, 8/27

Adult $127/Child (3-9) $117: 8/30, 9/2, 9/6, 9/8, 9/10, 9/13, 9/15

Adult $146/Child (3-9) $136: 8/9, 9/17, 9/20, 9/22, 9/24, 9/26, 9/27, 9/29

Adult $166/Child (3-9) $156: 10/1, 10/3

Adult $176/Child (3-9) $166: 10/6, 10/8, 10/10, 10/14, 10/15, 10/17

Adult $186/ Child (3-9) $176: 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/20, 10/21, 10/24

Adult $195/ Child (3-9) $185: 10/25, 10/27, 10/29

MICKEY’S NOT SO SCARY OFFERINGS

The fan-favorite fireworks and the “Boo to You” parade will both be back! This definitely isn’t the scaled-back Disney After Hours BOO BASH of the pandemic, but rather the full Mickey’s Not So Scary of previous years. There will be:

The Boo to You parade features villains, ghouls, and other characters and happens twice per night! Like always, the Headless Horseman will kick off the parade, but new for 2024, the first parade will have an earlier start time, making it easier for families with young kids.

More character sightings around the park than in past years – including new costumes for Mickey and Minnie
Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular with everyone’s three favorite witches!
The Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks hosted by Jack Skellington

Performances by the Cadaver Dans Barbershop Quartet in Frontierland
Treat stops with lots of candy!
Costumes are allowed for all guests
Over 20 attractions, including a Halloween twist at Mad Tea Party, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, and Space Mountain. It hasn’t been confirmed whether TRON Lightcycle / Run will be using a virtual queue or just the standby line.
Guests can enter the park as early as 4pm and DO NOT NEED a separate Disney park reservation.

Will you be attending MNSSHP this year? We try to go to MNSSHP every year for one of the early September parties, and we’re hoping to continue that tradition again this year!

Jennifer November 2, 2023 Disney

Disney Military Salute Tickets | 2024

Did you know that eligible service members get amazing ticket deals at WDW and Disneyland? For more than a decade, Disney has offered fantastic discounts to those that serve our country, and while the prices have most definitely gone up every year, the Disney Miltary Salute Tickets are still the absolute BEST prices you’ll find on Walt Disney World or Disneyland tickets.

This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!) if you purchase when you click on the links. Thank you for supporting Love Dwells Here!!

Let’s get the fine print out of the way. In order to purchase these tickets, you must be an “Eligible Service Member”: active or retired US military, including active/retired National Guard, Reservists, US Coast Guard, US Space Force, Commissioned Corps of PHS, and the Commissioned Corps of NOAA. Spouses and Unremarried Widows are able to use their service member’s discounts, but no more than 6 tickets may be purchased by the service member or spouse. A valid ID is required to purchase tickets. If you don’t qualify for the military tickets, we always recommend booking through Undercover Tourist as they often offer savings over the gate price.

2024 WDW Military Salute Tickets

The 2024 Military Salute tickets are valid for admission from January 1, 2024, through December 20, 2024, but this year, there are some blockout dates. Tickets cannot be used from March 24 – April 6, 2024, or November 24 – 30, 2024. As usual, tickets are limited to 6 per Eligible Service Member/spouse.

Unlike traditional Disney tickets, Military Salute tickets don’t expire until December 20, 2024, so you can use your days however you want during the year. We typically break the days up and use them throughout the year rather than during one big trip. Plus, Memory Maker is available for $98.

Tickets are available at a WDW ticket booth (where tax will be added), your local ITT, or at Shades of Green (and they’re tax-free!). We always order ours from Shades of Green (SOG) because they come already activated – so you can skip waiting in line on your first day to activate – and they’re a bit cheaper!

4-Day WDW Disney Military Salute Tickets

Park Hopper: $369 plus tax (gate) OR $365 Shades of Green
Park Hopper Plus: $399 plus tax OR $395 Shades of Green

5-Day WDW Disney Military Salute Tickets

Park Hopper: $389 plus tax OR $385 Shades of Green
Park Hopper Plus: $419 plus tax OR $415 Shades of Green

6-Day WDW Disney Military Salute Tickets

Park Hopper: $409 plus tax OR $405 Shades of Green
Park Hopper Plus: $439 plus tax OR $435 Shades of Green

2024 Disneyland Military Salute Tickets

The Military Salute tickets are valid for admission from January 2, 2024, through December 13, 2024, with no block-out dates. Just like at WDW, tickets are limited to 6 per Eligible Service Member/spouse. Disneyland Military Salute tickets don’t expire until December 13, 2024, so you can use your days however you want throughout the year. This offer is only available through US military base ticket offices – we’ve found Camp Pendleton to be the easiest option and they’ll mail the tickets right to your house!

3-Day Disneyland Military Salute Tickets 2024

Park Hopper: $269
Park Hopper with Disney Genie+ Service: $359

4-Day Disneyland Military Salute Tickets 2024

Park Hopper: $315
Park Hopper with Disney Genie+ Service: $435

2024 Disney Military Resort Discounts

Resort discounts at WDW and Disneyland are a great way to stay at the new resort you’ve been wanting to try or to save some money at your fave. In the past, resort discounts were a set percentage discount of the regular price of the room, but now they’re on a sliding scale. Just like in 2023, availability has been limited compared to years prior. Currently, those discounts are UP TO 30% off at Values, UP TO 35% off at Moderates, and UP TO 40% off at Deluxe resorts.

Walt Disney World

US military members can SAVE at most WDW resorts between January 1, 2024, and December 20, 2024
You must call 407-939-7830 to book (or to apply the discount to your current reservation)
This offer is VERY limited, and availability will go fast!
The Villas at Grand Floridian, Campsites at Fort Wilderness, Pop Century, and Caribbean Beach Resort are all excluded, as well as some specific room categories at other resorts.

Disneyland

US military members can SAVE at all three Disneyland resorts between now and December 13, 2024.
You must call 833-618-0536 to book (or to apply the discount to your current reservation)
Like at WDW, this offer is limited, and availability will go fast!

So tell me, are you planning a 2024 Disney trip to take advantage of this year’s Disney Military Salute tickets and resort deals??

Are you looking for more military discounts? Check out these posts:

Universal Studios Military Freedom Pass | Renewed for 2023!
Waves of Honor Veterans Promotion | SeaWorld | Busch Gardens
And, while not a military discount, it’s still an important post – “Happy” Memorial Day from an Army Widow

Jennifer May 5, 2022 Disney

Best Disneyland Snacks + Where To Find Them

For some, including our family(!), all of the yummy snacks are part of the reason to visit Disneyland time and time again! Today, we’re sharing all the best Disneyland snacks and where you can find each and every one. Sometimes, instead of eating full meals, we snack our way through the park and share a variety of sweet and savory treats – it’s one of my favorite ways to do Disney!

Best Disneyland Snacks from sweet to savory

This post may contain affiliate links and we may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!) if you choose to purchase when you click on the links. Thank you for supporting Love Dwells Here!!

BEST DISNEYLAND SNACKS – SWEET

DISNEYLAND CHURROS

The original must-have treat, in our family at least, is the Disneyland Churro. Far superior to any of the churro offerings at Walt Disney World (we opt for these treats at WDW), Disneyland churros are a little bit of magic. These iconic treats are $5 each and can be found at churro carts throughout the park. My favorite is the French Quarter cart near the Haunted Mansion but my sister prefers the Space Mountain cart. Really, you can’t go wrong with a churro at Disneyland.

MATTERHORN MACAROON

Another classic Disneyland treat, the Matterhorn Macaroon is found at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe. Not to be confused with a macaron (a meringue sandwich cookie made with almond flour), the macaroon is a shredded coconut cookie. And in the case of the Matterhorn Macaroon, it’s designed to look like the famous mountain, complete with white chocolate snow on top! This sweet treat is $3.49 and you can mobile order at Jolly Holiday.

MICKEY BEIGNETS

Mickey Beignets are another can’t miss treat at Disneyland. You used to be able to get them at Café Orleans, but they removed them from the menu post-covid. Now, the only place to get them is the Mint Julep Bar, also located in New Orleans Square. Like many other places on this list, you can, and absolutely should, mobile order at the Mint Julep Bar to avoid waiting in what is often a really long line. Mickey Beignets come in either a 3-pack for $4.99 or a 6-pack for $8.49. While we always opt for the traditional powdered sugar ones, there are often seasonal flavors – currently, the seasonal flavor is banana!

CHURRO TOFFEE

Ohhhh, Churro Toffee, I’m still dreaming about you. Ever since I saw Jenny from Disney Hungry post about Churro Toffee a few years ago, it’s been on my list of things to try. It was worth the wait. Seriously, if you’ve never had the Disneyland Churro Toffee, this absolutely NEEDS to be on your snack list! You can get it at the Candy Palace in Disneyland (as well as Trolley Treats in California Adventure and Marceline’s Confectionery in Downtown Disney) for $6.49. And for whatever reason, this sweet treat is just a West Coast thing so don’t expect to find it at WDW!

Mobile order this one, and you don’t even have to wait in line… You’ll be snackin’ on this cinnamon sugar deliciousness in no time. And don’t forget to order a few pieces to bring home!

DOLE WHIP

Dope whips are another popular sweet treat at Disneyland. If you’re looking to change it up from the usual pineapple soft serve, try the Loaded Dole Whip from Tropical Hideaway. It’s pineapple and mango swirl dole whip, chamoy, mango, and chile-lime seasoning. The sweet and spicy flavor combo was a winner in our family, and at $7.99, it’s not super expensive.

SWEET LUMPIA

Also found at Tropical Hideaway, the Sweet Lumpia is a mix of banana and jackfruit and has a caramel drizzle on top. It was a great flavor combination and a nice change of pace from the usual sweet offerings in the park. I know jackfruit is becoming increasingly popular in the parks, but this was the first time I’ve seen it in a sweet option. The sweet lumpia is $6.99.

BEST DISNEYLAND SNACKS – SAVORY

CORN DOG

I know, I’m sure you’re thinking, “Seriously, a corn dog?! At Disneyland?!”. But these are no ordinary corn dogs! The Disneyland hand-dipped Corn Dogs are dipped in sweet cornbread batter and fried to perfection. Don’t let the line at the Little Red Wagon deter you; these are most definitely worth the wait! Or better yet, mobile order and bypass the line! This savory snack is $9.79 but also comes with a clementine and a bag of chips – you could totally make a meal out of this one.

CHIMICHANGA

Did you know that Disneyland has chimichangas?! Totally random, right?? Essentially a fried burrito, you can find this savory snack for $6.99 at Edelweiss Snacks near the Matterhorn. The Chimichanga is filled with ground beef, refried beans, and a traditional Mexican red sauce. They’re big enough to split, especially if you’re planning to snack your way through the park.

This is another place where mobile ordering comes in handy. We walked up to Edelweiss, placed a mobile order, and received our food in the time it took 2 out of about 17 people in line to be helped. You can also grab a chimichanga at most carts that sell turkey legs.

BREAKFAST CHIMICHANGA

Even better than the regular chimichanga is the Breakfast Chimichanga. This one is ONLY available at the Ship to Shore cart by Big Thunder Mountain, and they only have them as long as supplies last in the morning. It’s a burrito filled with eggs, sausage, potatoes, and cheese, and then fried to create a delicious and portable breakfast option. Grab one to eat while you wait in line for Big Thunder!

GIANT PICKLE

So, growing up, my parents never let me get the Disneyland pickles, and I thought they were horrible parents because of it. Yeah I know, they took me to Disneyland, so they couldn’t have been that bad, but still, I really wanted to try the pickles!! Fast forward to being an adult and having my own kids, I let them order the pickle if that’s what they want for their snack… or breakfast. Disneyland pickles are some of the best pickles in the world – they have a regular option as well as a spicy one (both are $3.99) and you can find them at carts throughout the park.

BAO BUNS

In addition to dole whips, Tropical Hideaway has some savory options as well. We tried several of the bao bun choices including the Loco Moco Bao (top) and the Lime Chicken Bao (bottom). The Loco Moco has spiced ham, egg, ground beef, and mushroom gravy, while the Lime Chicken is filled with butternut squash and fresh herbs. While both were tasty choices, the Lime Chicken Bao was the winner in our house. Each bao bun is $5.99 and there is also a Spiced Vegetable Bao option that sounds delicious.

PORK LUMPIA

Disney is really going for it in the lumpia category with the Sweet Lumpia at Tropical Hideaway (above), the Pineapple Lumpia at Animal Kingdom, and the closely related Spring Rolls at Magic Kingdom. The Pork Lumpia at Tropical Hideaway is a solid option if you’re looking for a savory snack that won’t break the bank. For $6.99 you get two tasty rolls filled with pork and vegetables + a sweet-chili dipping sauce.

BANYAN BEEF SKEWER

Bengal Barbecue is one of our favorites for a high-protein snack that tastes great and is filling. We often get a couple of skewers and split them and it’s just what you need to keep going on a long Disney day. The Banyan Beef Skewer is the spicy version of the traditional Bengal Beef Skewer. Both options are $6.49. When we were mobile ordering I noticed that you could add an extra cup of sauce for $.50 – you really don’t need it since this thing is covered in sauce.

SAFARI SKEWER

Also at Bengal Barbecue, the Safari Skewer is a must-do. It’s asparagus wrapped in bacon and is absolutely delightful – especially when dipped in some extra banyan sauce. The Safari Skewer is $5.99 and we like ordering a couple plus a couple of the meat skewers for a late afternoon snack.

With so many delicious snack options at Disneyland, where will you start? What’s your favorite Disneyland treat?? Is there something that we missed??

Jennifer February 17, 2022 Disney

The Walt Disney Family Museum | San Francisco, CA

Did you know that there’s a museum dedicated to the life and family of Walt Disney in San Francisco? The Walt Disney Family Museum is a must-do for any die-hard Disney fan! And even if you’re not a die-hard fan (yet!), it’s still an interesting way to spend a day in the city.

The Walt Disney Family Museum is located in the heart of the Presidio, formerly the most important Army post on the Pacific Coast. The museum is a must-do for any Disney fan, and while we already knew a great deal of Disney history, we learned A LOT more during our visit!

The kids were surprised to discover that Walt Disney tried to enlist in the Army during WWI but was too young. After altering his birthdate on his passport, he joined the American Ambulance Corps and was sent to France but arrived just as the war ended. He spent almost a year overseas, and rather than taking care of the injured and ill; he spent most of his time working as a tour guide for visiting officials.

They were also amazed at how many individual drawings were required to animate a 15-second scene of Steamboat Willie. While Steamboat Willie was not Disney’s first Mickey Mouse short (it was the third), it was the first successful one and the first one with sound. On November 18, 1928, Steamboat Willie premiered at the Colony Theather in New York City to rave reviews and launched the career of Mickey Mouse (and Walt Disney).

The WDFM has great interactive exhibits, and the kids enjoyed trying their hand at creating Silly Symphonies. There are listening stations, movies, drums, and displays with lots of buttons all through the galleries, which help to keep the little ones engaged and entertained.

During WWII, the Disney company produced training films for the military as well as public service and morale-boosting shorts, and they did it all at cost (not for a huge profit like other companies).

Ben and Lexie thought it was pretty cool to sit on the actual bench from Griffith Park that Walt sat on many times while coming up with the idea for Disneyland. He watched his daughters play and laugh and imagined a place where families could go and have fun together.

The 13-foot model of the “Disneyland of Walt’s Imagination” was easily the highlight of the museum. We all enjoyed looking for our favorite attractions and seeing which ones changed or were added as well as the ones that never came to be.

We’ve been to Disneyland many times over the years, and it was so interesting to look at our usual routes through the park.

You can see the concept for the Rainbow Caverns Mine Train that became the Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland and eventually Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

The Main Street Train Station and Main Street USA.

Nick especially loved the original Space Mountain concept that was both an indoor and outdoor coaster.

At the end of the exhibits, the mood is a bit heavier. Cartoons cover the walls, praising Disney for the impact he had on the children of the world, but also cover the news of his death.

“You can dream, create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.” — Walt Disney

Even though the museum ends on a somewhat somber note with the death of Walt Disney, you are constantly reminded of the impact that he made. The legacy that he left behind is immeasurable; he changed the lives of so many people, as well as changed the industry. “I hope that we don’t lose sight of one thing – that it was all started by a mouse.” — Walt Disney

We had a phenomenal time at the WDFM and would definitely recommend it if you’re in the San Francisco area- or even if you’re doing a Disneyland trip and can spare a weekend to go north. Strollers are now allowed in the galleries (although you may be asked to store double or jogging strollers at the coat check in the lower lobby depending on crowds), making it easier to explore with the kids. Most people recommend at least two hours to go through all of the exhibits though hardcore Disney fans and those traveling without small children will likely need to allow more time.

Things to Remember if You’re Visiting the Walt Disney Family Museum

The museum is open Thursday – Sunday from 10am – 5:30pm, but the last entrance is at 4:30pm– go early to beat the crowds.
It’s closed every Monday – Wednesday, so plan accordingly (also closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day)
Active duty and retired military (and spouses and dependents!) are free with a valid ID.
Everyone is free on December 5 in observation of Walt’s birthday– tickets are only available in person, on the 5th.
Flash photography and professional camera equipment are not allowed in the museum.

If you’re looking for more things to do in San Francisco, check out these posts:

What’s on your Disney Bucket List?? If it’s not already on it, definitely add the Walt Disney Family Museum!

Jennifer November 24, 2021 Disney

2022 Disney Military Salute Tickets

It’s that magical time of year again – the 2022 Disney Military Salute Tickets were announced! For more than a decade, Disney has offered fantastic discounts to those that serve our country, and while the prices have most definitely gone up every year, these are still the absolute best prices you’ll find on Walt Disney World or Disneyland tickets.

2022 Disney Military Salute Ticket Offer + Resorts

First things first, in order to purchase these tickets you must be an “Eligible Service Member”: active or retired US military (including active/retired National Guard, Reservists, US Coast Guard, US Space Force, Commissioned Corps of PHS, and the Commissioned Corps of NOAA). Spouses and Unremarried Widows are able to use their service member’s discounts. A valid ID is required to purchase tickets. If you don’t qualify for the military tickets, we always recommend booking through Undercover Tourist as they often offer savings over the gate price.

2022 WDW Military Salute Tickets

The Military Salute tickets are valid for admission from January 1, 2022, through December 16, 2022, with NO blockout dates. As usual, tickets are limited to 6 per Eligible Service Member/spouse. Unlike traditional Disney tickets, Military Salute tickets don’t expire until December 16, 2022, so you can use your days however you want throughout the year. We typically break the days up and use them throughout the year. Plus, Memory Maker is available for $98.

4-Day WDW Disney Military Salute Tickets

Park Hopper: $329 plus tax (gate) OR $323 Shades of Green
Park Hopper Plus: $359 plus tax OR $353 Shades of Green
Park Hopper and Disney Genie+ Service: $389 plus tax OR $382 Shades of Green
Park Hopper Plue and Disney Genie+ Service: $419 plus tax OR $412 Shades of Green

5-Day WDW Disney Military Salute Tickets

Park Hopper: $349 plus tax OR $343 Shades of Green
Park Hopper Plus: $379 plus tax OR $372 Shades of Green
Park Hopper and Disney Genie+ Service: $424 plus tax OR $416 Shades of Green
Park Hopper Plue and Disney Genie+ Service: $454 plus tax OR $446 Shades of Green

2022 Disneyland Military Salute Tickets

The Military Salute tickets are valid for admission from July 6, 2021, through December 16, 2022. These tickets are blocked out from: December 17-31, 2021, and April 9-17, 2022. Just like at WDW, tickets are limited to 6 per Eligible Service Member/spouse and Military Salute tickets don’t expire until December 16, 2022, so you can use your days however you want throughout the year. Plus, the Disney PhotoPass Collection is available for $49.

3-Day Disneyland Military Salute Tickets

Park Hopper: $225 plus tax

4-Day Disneyland Military Salute Tickets

Park Hopper: $260 plus tax

2022 Military Resort Discounts

Resort discounts at WDW and Disneyland are a great way to stay at the new resort you’ve been wanting to try or to save some money at your fave. In the past, resort discounts were a set percentage off of the regular price of the room, but now they’re on a sliding scale. For 2022, we’ve found availability to be less than in years prior. Currently, those discounts are UP TO 30% off at Values, UP TO 35% off at Moderates, and UP TO 40% off at Deluxe resorts.

Walt Disney World

US military members can SAVE at most WDW resorts between January 1, 2022, and December 16, 2022
You must call 407-939-7830 to book (or to apply the discount to your current reservation)
This offer is VERY limited and availability will go fast!
The Villas at Grand Floridian, Campsites at Fort Wilderness, Pop Century, and Caribbean Beach Resort are all excluded as well as some specific room categories at other resorts.

Disneyland

US military members can SAVE at all three Disneyland resorts between now and December 16, 2022.
You must call 800-372-6820 to book (or to apply the discount to your current reservation)
Like at WDW, this offer is limited and availability will go fast!

So tell me, are you planning a 2022 Disney trip to take advantage of the new military deals?

Looking for more military discounts? Check out these posts:

Universal Studios Military Freedom Pass | Renewed for 2022!
Waves of Honor Veterans Promotion | SeaWorld | Busch Gardens
And, while not a military discount, it’s still an important post – “Happy” Memorial Day from an Army Widow

Jennifer August 17, 2021 Disney

Disney Very Merriest After Hours | Magic Kingdom

Following the announcement of the Disney After Hours BOO BASH for this fall, it came as no surprise that Disney is opting for an After Hours event for the Christmas season as well. The Disney Very Merriest After Hours party is a replacement for the usual Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party that we’ve come to know and love. This 4-hour event runs from 9pm-1am on select November/December evenings and also allows for admission into Magic Kingdom as early as 7pm. Updated 9/13/21 with Very Merriest Military Discount info.

VERY MERRIEST Offerings

Unlike the BOO BASH After Hours event running this fall with no parade and fireworks, VERY MERRIEST After Hours WILL have Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show. It appears that while BOO BASH is much more like the Villains After Hours that was offered in 2019, VERY MERRIEST will be closer to the regular Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – just with fewer hours and no character meet and greets.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
- No details yet as to if this will be running 2x per night like at MVMCP or just once
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks
- You’ll also be able to enjoy the brand-new fireworks spectacular, Disney Enchantment (part of WDW’s 50th Anniversary celebration), if you’re in Magic Kingdom before the park closes to day guests.
Holiday attraction overlays – yep, Jingle Cruise will be back this year!!!
Character sightings around the park (not traditional meet and greets)
Reindeer Wranglers performances in Frontierland
Club Tinsel Dance Party
Unlimited (select) snacks like ice cream novelties, popcorn, seasonal treats, and select beverages – just like at the other After Hours events
Holiday magic shots from DisneyPhotoPass
LOW WAIT TIMES at over 20 attractions

2021 Disney Very Merriest After Hours Dates/Prices

Very Merriest After Hours will take place on select nights from November 8 – December 21, from 9pm – 1am. Like the other “After Hours” events, this one will take place after the park closes to day guests and does not require the park to close early – a common complaint of MVMCP during the busy holiday season. Tickets go on sale on 8/17/21 for resort guests (including the Swan/Dolphin and Shades of Green) and on 8/20/21 for the general public.

Very Merriest dates and prices are finally out, so without further ado, here are all the details. Prices for November dates range from $169-$209 + tax, and December dates are $209-$249 + tax. Annual Passholders and DVC Members can save $10 per ticket for early November dates. Tickets go on sale online, or call 407-939-4240 on August 20, though guests of select WDW hotels can book on August 17.

November: 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 28, 30

December: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21

~~There’s been no mention of military pricing yet but I’ll update again if/when that info is released.~~ BREAKING NEWS — there IS a military discount available for Disney Very Merriest After Hours!! Tickets are non-refundable and sold on a first-come, first-serve basis only through Shades of Green. Prices are as follows, including tax:

November 8, 12, 14, 19: $183.75

November 9, 11, 16, 18: $164.50

November 21, 23, December 3, 10, 17: $222.75

November 28, 30, December 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16: $203.25

December 19, 21: No military discount

Will you be attending the new Disney VERY MERRIEST After Hours this year? While I’m totally bummed not to have the Christmas party back in its full form, I’m hoping that we get the chance to check this one out!

Jennifer May 25, 2021 Disney

Best Magic Kingdom Snacks

Walt Disney World is FULL of amazing snacks ranging from savory to super sweet. We had so much fun compiling our list of faves throughout the resort that we’re going to take it a step further and go park by park. Magic Kingdom has some of the best and most inventive snacks in all of Walt Disney World, so that’s where we’re starting with the best Magic Kingdom snacks! We skipped over the basic churro (since they’re so much better at Disneyland!), Mickey pretzel, and turkey leg options because there are so many other delicious choices. **updated 5/25/2021 – Disney Dining Plan is not currently available so disregard those references for now**

POPCORN

Okay, so yes, Popcorn is a pretty basic snack, BUT at Disney World, you can get popcorn in refillable souvenir buckets, which definitely ups the fun factor. The refillable popcorn buckets range in price from $10 to over $20 depending on the character and how exclusive it is, and there really is a popcorn bucket for everyone. In the past, they’ve had everything from Mickey to Cinderella’s Coach (not technically a character!) to the little green alien from Toy Story. Refills are $1.75, and you can fill them up throughout all of the parks.

MICKEY ICE CREAM BAR

Another somewhat basic treat, the Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar, can be found throughout the Walt Disney World area, but there’s just something about enjoying one on a hot day at the Magic Kingdom- and let’s face it, most days at MK are hot! For $5.75, or a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan, you can enjoy the cold, chocolatey deliciousness of a Mickey ice cream bar. We love to have one while watching the castle show or after taking a ride on Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain as we walk along the Rivers of America.

CORN DOG NUGGETS

CURRENTLY CLOSED At Casey’s Corner, you can get Corn Dog Nuggets with a side of cheese sauce (for an extra $1). The corn dog nuggets are perfectly crispy, and the cheese is hot and gooey, and it’s a nice change of pace from the hot dog options at Casey’s. It technically comes as a meal with fries or apple slices, but you can order the nuggets on their own and save a few dollars- we love to split an order and enjoy them on the hub grass.

PINEAPPLE UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE WITH DOLE WHIP

Dole whips and dole whip floats are a popular snack around Disney World, but did you know that you can get Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Dole Whip at Aloha Isle?? The pineapple upside-down cake is soft and packed full of pineapple deliciousness (and a hidden cherry!) and then is topped with pineapple (or vanilla or twist) dole whip making for a not-too-sweet treat! At $6.99, this makes excellent use of a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

KAKAMORA FLOAT

Also available at Aloha Isle, the Kakamora Float is a must order on EVERY trip for us! This Moana-inspired treat pairs Coconut Soft Serve on top of Pineapple Juice + Blue Curaçao Syrup and garnished with a Chocolate Kakamora Cake Pop. It’s like two treats in one!! Make sure to mobile order this one next time you visit the Magic Kingdom!

LOADED BUFFALO CHICKEN TOTS

Make sure to stop by The Friar’s Nook in Fantasyland for this delicious treat. While the Loaded Buffalo Chicken Tots are not technically a snack, they’re totally splittable and work well as a snack for our family. For just under $10, you get a generous portion of crispy tots, topped with buffalo chicken, blue cheese dressing, and celery – or you can get it in a Mickey Souvenir Hat Bowl for $18. It’s a great snack to split, plus the seating area is shaded, so it’s a perfect place to escape the afternoon sun or thunderstorms. Mobile Ordering is now available at The Friar’s Nook and is definitely the way to go.

FRESH FRUIT WAFFLE SANDWICH (AKA NUTELLA WAFFLE)

OMG, this one is a cult favorite! It’s a fresh and delicious waffle topped with chocolate hazelnut spread (AKA Nutella) and fresh fruit! The Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich is only available as a breakfast item. So if you really want to get one of these, and I HIGHLY recommend that you do, make sure to stop by Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square before 11am. Mobile Order is now available at Sleepy Hollow, and we always recommend going that route rather than waiting in line! We often get a couple of these delicious treats to split as a breakfast snack!

STARBUCKS

So I know that you can get Starbucks at home, but there’s something magical about getting it in the Most Magical Place on Earth. As you make your way down Main Street towards Cinderella Castle, pop into the Main Street Bakery to get your morning caffeine fix. We love to start our day with an iced coffee or swing by for a drink and head to the hub grass in the afternoon- hub grass and chill, anyone?? Prices are a bit higher than our Starbucks at home, but you can use a Disney Dining Plan snack credit for just about any drink (in any size!).

CHESHIRE CAT TAIL

At the Cheshire Café, you can get a Cheshire Cat Tail- a delicious chocolate-filled, braided pastry topped with chocolate chips and pink & purple frosting drizzle. The Cheshire Cafe, right across from Mad Tea Party, is super small but does have a limited seating area. We typically pick up our treats and just enjoy them as we’re walking around or waiting in our next line. At $5.49, the Cheshire Cat Tail is a great choice for a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan! The Lunching Pad also has Cheshire Cat Tails, and you can mobile order.

STARBUCKS AT NIGHT

Clearly, we’re addicted to caffeine, but you really can’t beat a hot cup of coffee (or likely a latte in my case!) while you’re watching Happily Ever After. We usually stake out a fireworks spot well before the show and then send one person to the Main Street Bakery to pick up our Starbucks drinks. Most drinks (in most sizes) count as one-snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan, so if you’re using it– go ahead and get a fancy drink!

PLAZA ICE CREAM PARLOR CONES

CURRENTLY CLOSED We always wrap up our Magic Kingdom days with a Double-scooped Ice Cream Cone from the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor. It’s a tradition that we started on our first married trip to Disneyland, and one that we look forward to on every Disney trip now. If you ask nicely, they’ll even put the chocolate Mickey ears that normally go on a kids’ scoop on your cone!

With so many delicious treats to try, where will you start? What’s your favorite Magic Kingdom treat??

Jennifer May 7, 2021 Disney

Disney After Hours Boo Bash | Magic Kingdom

As part of Disney’s Halfway to Halloween celebration happening right now, they announced the Disney After Hours BOO BASH for this fall. While this comes as a huge blow to those waiting for a return of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, it makes sense considering that the things that make MNSSHP special (fireworks, parades, character meet and greets) are not running right now and potentially will not return by late August when the Halloween party traditionally starts. (updated June 2, 2021)

Disney After Hours Boo Bash 2021 Halloween Party

BOO BASH Offerings

While there won’t be the traditional fireworks and Boo to You parade that we’ve all come to know and love, the Disney After Hours BOO BASH is still shaping up to be a fun event. Reminiscent of Villains After Hours that was offered in 2019, there will be:

Halloween-themed cavalcades
- Mickey’s Happy Halloween Cavalcade: Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, and pals all dressed in their Halloween costumes
- Disney Villain Halloween Cavalcade: Gaston, Dr Facilier, the Queen of Hearts, and Jafar
- Jack’s Nightmare Cavalcade: Jack Skellington plus Sally and Oogie Boogie
- And most importantly, Maleficent will take to the streets again!!!
Character sightings around the park (not traditional meet and greets)
Performances by the Cadaver Dans
Unlimited (select) snacks like ice cream novelties, popcorn, and select beverages – just like at the other After Hours events
Treat stops with lots of candy
Costumes are allowed for all guests
LOW WAIT TIMES at over 20 attractions

2021 Disney After Hours BOO BASH Dates/Prices

BOO BASH will take place on select nights from August 10 – October 31, from 9pm – midnight (the August parties are from 930pm-1230am). Like the other “After Hours” events, this one will take place after the park closes to day guests and does not require the park to close early – a common complaint of MNSSHP. Specific dates and prices have not been officially announced yet, but I will update this post as soon as they are – including if military pricing is available. Tickets go on sale next month, so I’m expecting that information to be out shortly.

Boo Bash dates and prices were released this morning, so without further ado, here are all the details. August and September dates start at $129-139 plus tax, October nights are $159-169 plus tax, and Halloween is a whopping $199 plus tax. Annual Passholders and DVC Members can save $10 per ticket in August and September. Tickets go on sale online, or call 407-939-4240 on June 15, though guests of select WDW hotels can book on June 8.

August: 10, 17, 20, 24, 27, 31

September: 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24

October: 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29, 31

There’s been no mention of military pricing yet but I’ll update again if/when that info is released.

Will you be attending the new Disney After Hours BOO BASH this year? While I’m totally bummed not to have the Halloween party back in its full glory, I am definitely looking forward to checking this event out!

I think the thing I’m most excited to find out is will Maleficent once again take to the streets at night as part of a cavalcade, just as she did during Villains After Hours! Luckily, this question has been answered, and she WILL be breathing her fire down Main Street once again!!

Jennifer April 14, 2021 Disney

Everglazed | Disney Springs

New to the Disney Springs scene, Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew is serving up the most delicious donuts in the Orlando area. Yep, I said it. Everglazed Disney Springs is better than the VooDoo Donuts at Universal City Walk!

Are you looking for somewhere new to grab a quick breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat on your day off from the parks? Everglazed is where it’s at!

Everglazed is located in Disney Springs’ West Side district, closest to the Orange Parking Garage. It’s in between the AMC theater and Splitsville – another one of our fave dining locations!

Like most donut shops, you walk up to the counter to order, and you can check out all the sweet deliciousness behind the counter while you wait. There are windows lining the shop so you can actually watch them create monstrous treats if the line stretches outside – which it usually does.

Everglazed seems to run like a well-oiled machine. If you’re ordering donuts, they give them to you when you pay. If you order a breakfast sandwich (that you can upgrade to come between 2 glazed donuts!) or coffee, you pick it up at the end of the counter once they’re ready.

Even with all the delicious choices, Ellie wanted her usual order – a glazed donut. I love that she always wants something simple like glazed because it allows me to compare donuts at a more basic level.

The rest of the crew wanted something a little… heartier!

Brooklyn Blackout: Chocolate glazed donut, chocolate icing, mini chocolate chips, chocolate buttercream, chocolate wafer cookies
Cinnamon Toast Crunch: Cinnamon iced donut, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, cream cheese frosting, dusted with cinnamon sugar
Mounds Coconut Dream: Coconut-almond iced donut, toasted coconut, chopped Mounds, cream cheese frosting, vanilla icing drizzle

One of my favorite things about Everglazed is the cold brew coffee + donut combos! This one, the Double Chocolate Nitro is made with: nitro cold brew, chocolate milk, chocolate & white chocolate syrups, topped with a Brooklyn Blackout donut. Totally sweet and totally delicious!

But my all-time fave order at Everglazed is a Maple Double Bacon donut + a large cold brew with cream. It’s honestly the BEST maple bacon donut I’ve ever had. The bacon is flavorful, plentiful, and crispy, and it goes perfectly with the maple frosting.

Have you been to Everglazed yet?? Are you more likely to stick to the basics like glazed or sprinkles or get something totally out there like a peanut butter explosion when you get a donut??