food IS a theme park
It’s almost time for one of the most colorful events in Disney World…
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
…that’s right, it’s the Festival of the Arts! This popular festival takes place every year in January and February, and it’s highlighted by Broadway actor performances, incredible chalk art, pop-up shops with paintings of all kinds, and stunning food dishes. If you’re attending the festival this year, we’ve got something you need to see!
The one thing that blows my mind is that when people plan a Disney World vacation, they’re not just paying for tickets to the theme parks, but they’re also paying for a hotel room that many folks rarely see, except maybe at night.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
I’m not one of those people, though. Now, I have certainly done the parks from rope drop to park close, but when I do this, I feel like I’ve wasted money on a hotel room I’m barely seeing. Oh, and I’m usually in pain…and I’m exhausted. So instead of making myself do that, I almost ALWAYS leave the parks around 2 PM to take a break in my hotel room that I paid good money for.
We are only a few days away from 2026 — and there are plenty of people heading to Disney World to celebrate the holidays and ring in the new year!
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Long Line
It is one of the busiest times of the year at Disney World, and the wait times are proving that! We always warn about the higher crowds you will see around Christmas and the New Year, and it looks like there are plenty of guests at the parks right now. There are long wait times, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an enjoyable time. We are taking a look at the waits and sharing some of our tips to beat the crowds.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade is one of our favorite parades at Magic Kingdom. From the toy soldiers to Santa Claus, there is so much to see during this parade. However, usually you can only see the parade if you purchase tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
Good news, though! Each year, for a limited time, you can catch this festive holiday parade during regular park hours. That’s right, no special ticket needed for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Just a ticket into Magic Kingdom will get you the option to see this special parade.
Hoping to ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind during your visit to EPCOT? Yeah, you and 10,000 other people. 😅
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
This coaster is arguably one of Disney World’s most popular rides, beloved for its big thrills and awesome soundtrack. The line can get incredibly long during the day, and many people pay extra for Lightning Lane services to skip that wait. But can you ensure that you have a GOOD ride on Cosmic Rewind? You sure can try, and we’re here to tell you how!
If you’re riding Test Track in EPCOT, don’t make the mistakes we did!
Test Track
This popular thrill ride was recently revamped for the second time, making Test Track 3.0. Since then, it has been pretty popular, and fans are lining up in droves to check it out. But we’ve made some mistakes when riding Test Track in the past that we want to help you avoid!
Okay, all you chronic Disney World overpackers, raise your hands! (*slowly slides hand into the air guiltily*)
What shoes do you wear in the parks?
It can be seriously challenging to pack all your park outfits, Minnie ears, Loungefly backpacks, and hotel essentials in your luggage while still saving room for souvenirs on the way home. But you know what’s probably taking up too much space? Shoes! You really only need 3 pairs of shoes for Disney World — allow me to explain.
Travel delays can ruin even the best-planned trip.
Orlando International Airport
When I was flying from Houston to Charleston recently, I got stuck overnight in Atlanta. I was tired, frustrated, and ready to sleep anywhere that wasn’t a cold, bright gate chair. The airline offered me a hotel voucher, but I didn’t take it, and it ended up being one of the best travel decisions I’ve ever made. Let’s talk about the $232 I spent that completely changed how I think about airport layovers.
After decades of early Disney mornings, I’ve learned a few things that help me have a more successful park day, including prepping a few key things before 7 AM!
Disney World
I like to say that for me, Disney World is more of a trip than a relaxing vacation. If you are like me, you’re taking advantage of those Early Theme Park Entry times and you want to start your day with a bang! Whether you’re a rope-drop regular or just trying to make the most of your park time, these early-morning habits can set the tone for a smoother, happier Disney day.
There’s an easy way to save time at the Orlando Airport, but almost no one does it.
Orlando International Airport
If you’ve ever flown into or out of Orlando International Airport (MCO), you already know how hectic it can be. Between long security lines, packed terminals, and the constant hum of travelers rushing to their gates, MCO can feel like a theme park without the fun part. But here’s the thing, there are a few incredibly easy ways to make your airport experience faster and less stressful. The surprising part? Most people don’t use them. Let’s talk about why.
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