food IS a theme park
Welcome back, DFB friends! We’re here with another What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
Character Cavalcade
And, we’ve got plenty of updates to share with you! So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive right on in!
Based on a few comments below where this post is being misinterpreted, we need to clarify that our goal with this meal was not to test Disney restaurants to see how well the rule is being enforced, or to try to not wear our masks throughout the meal. Our job, as always, is to describe our experience with the restaurant and the policies and to do so in an honest, thoughtful way. We wrote a post after the parks reopened where we discussed forgetting to put our mask on to walk to the restroom at California Grill. That was a mortifying mistake, but it was not intentional. And we think it’s important to share those errors with our readers so that they can be aware of just how easy it can be to break the rules when you have no intention of doing so. It’s good, valuable information, and so we share it in order to keep more people safe on their trips to Disney World.
We’ve seen a lot of updates made to Disney World’s face mask policy since the parks reopened.
Guess where we’re eating?
Disney World has strictly upheld these policies to adhere to appropriate health and safety guidelines. Guests must wear masks all the time when on Disney property, except when eating and drinking while stationary, swimming, or in a relaxation station. However, Disney recently announced an update on its policy regarding eating in restaurants.
EPCOT is currently undergoing a huge transformation that will introduce new attractions, restaurants, and decor around the park.
EPCOT
As part of the transformation, a brand new nighttime spectacular called Harmonious will soon make its debut in EPCOT. We’ve been keeping an eye on the new barges that will help bring this show to life as they make their way to World Showcase Lagoon. And the latest addition is absolutely MASSIVE!
It’s been nearly a year since we were last able to watch a fireworks show at Disney World.
Happily Ever After
When the parks reopened last summer, nighttime spectaculars did not return and continue to be temporarily suspended. Although, we did get a little fireworks surprise around the holidays, and preparations are underway in EPCOT for its upcoming show, Harmonious, normal fireworks shows aren’t taking place. But, that hasn’t stopped Disney from testing fireworks!
A LOT is happening at EPCOT right now! The park is undergoing a major transformation — we’re already in love with the new fountain in front of Spaceship Earth (seriously, we can’t stop taking photos of it).
Hello, you beautiful fountain
We’re also eagerly awaiting the arrival of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, although we’re getting impatient for some opening date announcements! C’mon, Disney — throw us a bone here!
2021 is the 70th anniversary of Disney’s Alice and Wonderland!
Magic Kingdom
To celebrate, we’ve checked out a new clothing collection, waved at Alice in the parks, and closely followed the refurb going down at the Mad Tea Party. But when we stopped by Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom today, we spotted another reason to celebrate! There’s a new Alice in Wonderland Pandora line of jewelry. Happy unbirthday to us!
It might surprise you just how much work Disney has going on behind the scenes!
Animal Kingdom
We tend to keep an eye on all the different building permits that Disney is filing to see what kind of work they might be doing that would impact guests — visible AND behind-the-scenes. Well, we spotted a few signs of construction on some of your favorite attractions!
The Cinderella Castle construction continues.
Cinderella Castle
We’ve been following the progress around the castle closely. Last week, the stage was covered in scrim while bushes hid the work from guests. Just a few days ago, that stage was stripped down to plywood! And let’s not forget that the moat surrounding the castle is now totally drained.
Got 999 Haunted Mansion-themed items? Well, you know what they say…there’s room for 1,000!
Last year, Dooney & Bourke released a collection of drop-dead gorgeous bags themed to the Mansion. These bags were full of characters and details from the ride including the singing busts, Madame Leota, the bride, and much more. And while the bags from that collection were released months ago, something NEW for Haunted Mansion fans with a similar look has now materialized in Disney World.
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
