NEWS ROUNDUP: New Christmas Fireworks Show, Toy Story 4 Arrives at Disney World, Villains After Hours Debuts, DVC & Passholder’s Perk Announced, 2020 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Announced & More!

The news this Week from Disney World includes a lot surrounding the upcoming release of Toy Story 4 and the impact of the film in the WDW parks. The Toy Story movies are among our favorites, so we’re thrilled! We also were surprised by the announcement of a new Christmas fireworks show. A new After Hours party debuted featuring favorite villains and we got a peek at the 2020 schedule from Disney Cruise Line. Check out information on these stories and more down below!

1 – Disney Announces New Christmas Party Fireworks Show

It’s never too early to plan for the Holiday Season and Disney World has given us another great reason to check out Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year! The party will receive an all-new fireworks show! Click here to read all the details!

This announcement follows on the heels of news that Disney’s Animal Kingdom be getting in the holiday spirit, even more, this year! There is so much to see and do during that special time of year. Click here to read about the 6 amazing reasons to visit Disney World during the 2019 Holiday Season!

2 – Disney and Pixar’s ‘Toy Story 4’ – Media Screening and Press Conference

Years after Toy Story 3 was released in 2010, Toy Story 4 is an all-new adventure that you’ll love. This week we attended an exclusive media preview of the film, and we just loved it. When Bonnie takes the toys on her family’s road trip, Woody ends up on an unexpected detour that includes a reunion with his long-lost friend Bo Peep, whose adventurous spirit and life on the road belie her delicate porcelain exterior. Woody and Bo are worlds apart when it comes to life as toys, and they soon realize that’s the least of their worries. Be on the lookout for our spoiler-free review later this week!

We also attended the Orlando Toy Story 4 Press Junket and were able to chat with the voice talent of the film along with its two producers and director. Click here to see close up photos of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts, Keanu Reeves, Tony Hale, and Christina Hendricks. One thing that really stood out during the conference was how much love and responsibility these actors feel towards their characters. The movie is really so good and the care the producers, director, and actors took with the film really shone through. We’ll be posting video clips from the conference throughout the week on our Instagram account, so be on the lookout for those!

3 – Celebrate Disney and Pixar’s ‘Toy Story 4’ Right Now at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll find new experiences and film-related merchandise to celebrate the movie. First up, you can now meet Bo Peep along with Woody near Toy Story Mania. While the reaction to her appearance has been mixed, we had the chance to see her in person this weekend and we believe she looks better in person than how she does in photos. Also, once you see the movie, you’re going to fall in love with the character all over again. Bo Peep will be greeting guests this summer.

There is also a new line of Toy Story 4 merchandise now available at Walt Disney World. Along with Bo Peep items, a new pop-up merchandise area located at the exit of Toy Story Mania is now offering more unique collectibles for “Toy Story 4” fans. Check out this Instagram post of some of the items available. There are also plenty of other items like the ones in the photo below.

Make sure you try the three new Toy Story 4 inspired food items. Check out the offerings below.

• Seasonal Lemon-Blueberry Lunch Box Tart: Available at Woody’s Lunch Box (Click here to get our thoughts on this one).
• Hamm’s Sweet ‘n Tart Cookie: Available at Fairfax Fare, Trolley Car Café and PizzeRizzo
• Forky’s Hazelnut Éclair: Available at Backlot Express, ABC Commissary, and Rosie’s All American Café

Finally, now through June 21, you can catch a preview of the film at Walt Disney Presents.

4 – Disney Villains After Hours Debuts June 6 at Magic Kingdom Park

Disney After Hours is a special ticketed event that allows guests to experience a Disney Park with very little wait times and complimentary popcorn, ice cream treats and drinks. This past week, a villains themed event kicked off the summer at Magic Kingdom Park. We were there and enjoyed the extra villainous entertainment. Our full review will be out this week. In the meantime, check out our Instagram Story from the evening’s events!

5 – Foodie Guide to Disney Springs Flavors of Florida 2019

If you are visiting Disney Springs this summer, you’re in for a special treat. The ‘Flavors of Florida’ event is going on now through September 2 at Disney Springs. Click here for all the details.

6 – Fantastic Ways to Experience’ Fancy Nancy’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Fans of the Disney Junior’s new hit animated series, “Fancy Nancy,” will want to head over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Disney Cast Member Thomas Smith:

Earlier this month, “Fancy Nancy” made her grand debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!  And today, we’re sharing some favorite new merchandise to Disney Parks and park experiences inspired by the high-spirited young girl from Disney Junior’s hit animated series.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, “Fancy Nancy” fans can now look the part in a new colorful costume featuring a dress, leggings, wings and a tiara. The skirt has textured, glittery detailing for extra fanciness. This elaborate costume can be found at In Character at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

You can also take home a soft, squeezable plush doll with embroidered features along with a perfectly posh six-piece figure playset, featuring Fancy Nancy, Claire, JoJo, Bree, Marabelle, and Frenchy.  This collection can also be found at In Character at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Also at the park’s In Character location, fans of all ages can have their faces painted, adding some sparkle to a Fancy Nancy look with elegant swirls and magical unicorns.

Fancy Nancy is now part of the breakfast-time fun during Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood & Vine. During a visit, you can eat, play and laugh along with favorite Disney Junior friends including Vampirina, Doc McStuffins and Roadster Racer Goofy.

And of course, you can drop by and say bonjour to Nancy at our all-new character greeting location in the park’s Animation Courtyard, where she’s making une grande entrée in front of her backyard playhouse.

Check out all of these experiences and more during your next visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

*All items above are sold separately.*

7 – Celebrate Father’s Day at Walt Disney World

Whether Dad’s ideal day is spent enjoying sports and the great outdoors, experiencing exciting attractions or sampling delicious cuisine, there is something for every guy’s fancy at Walt Disney World Resort this Father’s Day.

Here are just a few of the options for making Dad’s day the best one yet:

Dining with Dad 

Walt Disney World is renowned for its wide variety of dining experiences, which make for an exceptional treat for Dad on his day. Select locations across the Disney theme parks and resort hotels will showcase special Father’s Day sips and bites:

• At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Flame Tree Barbecue will offer a limited-time Dad’s Platter with brisket, pulled pork, chicken and ribs. Restaurantosaurus will offer a “burger and brew” combo featuring a jalapeño popper burger. And a Father’s Day cupcake will be available at select locations around the theme park.
• A prix fixe menu will be offered at Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot, featuring a grilled 10-ounce top sirloin steak, a grilled shrimp skewer and loaded mashed potatoes, as well as choice of appetizer and dessert.
• Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will offer a Father’s Day prix fixe menu that includes oak-grilled, bone-in ribeye and fire-roasted bone marrow as well as an optional wine pairing.
• Special offerings will also be available at Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk Entertainment District and Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

For Walt Disney World dining information, guests should visit Disneyworld.com/dining or call (407) WDW-DINE.

Theme Park Thrills

If Dad loves thrills, there is plenty for him to enjoy at all four Walt Disney World theme parks.

At Epcot, car enthusiasts will rejoice on Test Track, where Dad can design a virtual concept vehicle and then take it for a high-octane spin. Afterward, he can pose for pictures with a dream car and more.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is full of wild experiences for Dad to explore. Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain features a high-speed race through icy Himalayan peaks that puts him face to face with the massive Yeti. If flying is more his style, Dad can climb aboard a banshee for an exhilarating experience in Avatar Flight of Passage located in Pandora – The World of Avatar.

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Dad can have an explosively good time at Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!, travel into another dimension on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or feel like a rock star aboard Rock’ n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.

Does Dad enjoy a more classic vibe? Magic Kingdom Park is the place to be, then, featuring beloved attractions such as Space Mountain, a roller-coaster ride in the dark that journeys to the furthest reaches of outer space, or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad … the “wildest ride in the wilderness!”

Sports and Outdoor Adventures 

Walt Disney World offers a plethora of experiences beyond its theme parks, with plenty of options if Dad is a sport or outdoor enthusiast.

He can book a tee time at any of four championship golf courses, which feature superlative design, impeccable service, world-class amenities and overall playability. To make reservations, guests should call (407) WDW-GOLF or visit GolfWDW.com.

Does Dad love to fish? He can choose from guided fishing excursions aboard a 21-foot pontoon boat that can accommodate up to five guests, or a tournament-style fishing boat for one or two people. Reservations can be made by calling (407) WDW-BASS.

If speedy fun is more his thing, Dad can hop into a personal watercraft and zip out onto Walt Disney World waterways, available for rent at select resort marinas. Kayaks and canoes are also available at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.

Relaxation at Disney Resort Hotels

Dad can keep this Father’s Day fun and relaxing by staying at a Disney resort hotel, choosing the story and surroundings that best fit his personality – from the spirit of a South Pacific oasis to the majesty of an African savanna and so many more. Villa accommodations at several Disney resort hotels offer plenty of space the family can enjoy together while celebrating Dad’s special day. One-, two- and three-bedroom options and full kitchens are tailor-made for good times with family and friends.

 8 – Disney Cruise Line Announces Fall 2020 Itineraries

Get out your calendars because Disney Cruise Line has announced the remaining itineraries for 2020. Catch all the details below. Disney Cast Member Melanie Curtsinger:

We have revealed the remainder of our cruise options for 2020. If you haven’t already started planning your family vacations for next year, now’s the time to start!

In fall 2020, Disney Cruise Line will bring holiday celebrations closer to you than ever, with Halloween and winter holiday sailings departing from New York, California, Texas and Florida. The 2020 fall season offers a range of itineraries that will visit a variety of tropical locales, with most sailings featuring that extra-special Disney holiday sparkle.

Halloween on the High Seas returns to Disney Cruise Line in September and October 2020 with spooky good times for the entire family. On select sailings across the fleet, you’ll be treated to a “mouse-querade” costume party, lively entertainment, ghoulish food and beverage delights, trick-or-treating, seasonal kids’ activities, a villainous party just for adults and a ghostly ship takeover with elaborate décor and a magical pumpkin tree.

From early November through December, the Disney Cruise Line fleet is decked from bow-to-stern with holiday cheer and entertainment during Very Merrytime Cruises. Holiday adventures are unwrapped for the whole family with merry parties, a tree lighting ceremony, festive activities, special food and beverage surprises, favorite characters in their finest holiday attire, a winter wonderland ball with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a flurry of “Frozen” snowfall.

Sailings to Bermuda and Canada from New York 

The Disney Magic returns to New York in October for sailings to Bermuda and Canada, all featuring Halloween on the High Seas. Three five-night cruises offer two days in Bermuda, giving you extra time to indulge in the island’s famous pink-sand beaches, abundant water activities, stylish shopping and distinctive blend of British and Caribbean culture.

One five-night cruise will visit Canada’s charming seaport cities including Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada’s oldest incorporated city, which is home to outdoor activities and an impressive natural phenomenon called the “reversing falls rapids.” On this sailing, you’ll also visit Halifax, the provincial capital of Nova Scotia. Rich in maritime history, Nova Scotia boasts Victorian-style public gardens and one of the world’s largest natural harbors.

Baja and Mexican Riviera Voyages from California

The Disney Wonder sets sail from San Diego in September, with Halloween on the High Seas cruises to Baja and the Mexican Riviera. Baja itineraries from two to five nights highlight the region’s famous beaches and water activities with calls on Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. One seven-night Mexican Riviera cruise, with additional stops in Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, completes the southern California sailings. On November 6, the Disney Wonder departs San Diego for a 14-night Panama Canal crossing.

Bahamas and Caribbean Cruises from Texas

From late November through December, the Disney Wonder will make Galveston, Texas, its homeport for Very Merrytime Cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas, with four-, five-, six- and seven-night sailings. Caribbean itineraries include stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico and Grand Cayman. Bahamian cruises feature stops at Nassau, Bahamas and Key West, Florida, as well as our private island Castaway Cay, reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests.

Tropical Island Vacations from Florida

In fall 2020, the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will sail to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida. Most sailings include our special Halloween or winter holiday celebrations, plus each of these cruises from Florida includes a day of fun in the sun on Castaway Cay.

The Disney Fantasy will sail Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries ranging from three to eight nights, and the Disney Dream will sail three- and four-night Bahamian cruises.

Bookings open to the public June 13, 2019, so click here to learn more and discover which Disney cruise in 2020 is right for your family.

9 – Special Dinner Available for Disney Vacation Members and Annual Passholders

Later this summer a brand-new restaurant, Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood will open at the all-new Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Resort. Disney Vacation Club members and annual passholders can take advantage of an exclusive event just for them. Disney Cast Member Thomas Smith has all the details:

Picture this – relaxing at an all-new rooftop restaurant, dining on delicious tapas, steaks and seafood at an exclusive tasting event just for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. You are invited to do just that at Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood this summer. Held on the evenings of Thursday, July 25; Thursday, August 1 and Thursday, August 8, 2019, this special event features highlights of the menu – specially selected by the chef – accompanied by signature cocktails. Enjoy the sweeping views of this Spanish haven, located in Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Resort, inspired by surrealist art and the 1930s avant-garde while savoring some of the best dishes the restaurant has to offer.

Menu highlights include delectable options such as Rioja-braised Chorizo, Chilled Marinated Mussels’ Escabèche,’ Savory Churros, Scallops, Hangar Steak, House Boards and ‘Café con Leche’ Profiterole.

Passholders and Members will be able to choose from a selection of cocktails – from gin tonic and sangria tastings, to samplings of Tempranillo (Rioja). Guests must be 21 years old with photo ID to consume alcohol. Soft drinks and coffee are also included.

The cost for this culinary event is $84 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Members and Passholders may bring up to 5 guests, for a party size total of 6. Check-in will be located on the first floor of Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Resort, and a valid Disney Vacation Club Membership Card or annual pass and photo ID is required.

Passholders can call (407) WDW-DINE, and Disney Vacation Club Members can call Member Services at (800) 800-9800 to register for this event.

Advance registrations are required. Full payment is due at the time of booking, with a credit card guarantee. Cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance of the event. Menu items, pricing and hours are subject to change without notice.

Important information about Disney Vacation Club Membership Extras: As a part of Membership Extras, an incidental benefit, these Member benefits are subject to change, availability or termination and may require a fee. Membership Extras are available with eligible ownership interests. Visit http://disneyvacationclub.com/memextraspolicy for more information.

10 – V.I.Passholder Exclusive Shopping Event Coming Soon

From time to time, Disney offers exclusive shopping opportunities for its annual passholders. The next one is coming up on Friday, June 14. Disney Cast Member Kelsey Noland shares all the details.

Good news! Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will have an exclusive opportunity to shop the newly-released Imagination Pink and Magic Mirror Metallic merchandise with your 20% discount at the World of Disney store at Disney Springs from 9-10 a.m. on Friday, June 14.

Be bold and be bright in Disney’s newest summer color trends that represent the playful energy and imagination inside all of us. From a new spirit jersey design, sparkly ears, accessories, MagicBands and more there are so many ways to celebrate and share your love for these hot new colors. Loving your new finds? Be sure to tag your photos with #VIPASSHOLDER so we can check out your unique style!

Registration is not required to attend this event. A valid annual pass and photo ID required at check-in. Merchandise will be available while supplies last. The 20% Passholder merchandise discount is applicable for purchases at World of Disney during this event. Event information subject to change without notice.

Note: All other guests will be able to purchase the collections starting at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 14.

Don’t forget to grab breakfast while you’re at Disney Springs! The Daily Poutine will also be open early serving its popular breakfast poutine from 9 a.m.-noon, while supplies last.

Join us for more delicious fun on June 15! The Ganachery will offer Imagination Pink Mickey Chocolate Piñatas and Summerberry (strawberry and lemonade) Ganache Squares and Amorette’s Patisserie will have beautiful Imagination Pink chocolate covered strawberry roses* and a new champagne toast. Plus, be on the lookout for Imagination Pink churros at select outdoor vending carts. (*Limited quantities made per day.)