Walt Disney World Resort Update for September 4-9, 2019

Walt Disney World Resort Update for September 4-9, 2019

 

Writer's note: By next week's Update, there are quite a few locations around Epcot's Future World slated to close to make way for the park's transformation. Hopefully, too, by the time you read this, Hurricane Dorian will safely be out of reach of Walt Disney World Resort. Indeed, our thoughts are with all those that have been impacted or still lie ahead of its eventual path.

But for Hurricane Dorian, which dominated our Central Florida news this week, the biggest story around Walt Disney World Resort was the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Since we covered that in a stand-alone article on Friday, we will only add a bit to that coverage here in this week's Update. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival also got underway and was busy with lots of locals popping over around their Hurricane prep (well, that's what I did too).

In any event, today, September 4, 2019, is your last chance to take advantage of this offer from our sponsor, Get Away Today: MousePlanet readers can get an extra $10 off Get Away Today's already discounted tickets when purchasing any 3-day or longer Walt Disney World parks tickets for travel now through December 31, 2020. Use promo code: WDWSALE today, September 4, 2019, to get the additional savings when booking at Get Away Today.

News and Views

Headlines are auto-generated here

Hurricane Dorian Occupies Central Florida News

Not to risk a "Dewey Defeats Truman" type headline like the Chicago Tribune once suffered by going to press before all the news was settled, suffice to say that Hurricane Dorian constantly has been in the news around Walt Disney World Resort since our last Update last week. What was once forecast to be a rather low-level tropical storm passing quickly across Central Florida and straight through Walt Disney World over the weekend, erupted instead into a strong Category 5 hurricane that stalled over the Bahamas for more than 36 hours before slowly turning north parallel to the Atlantic Coast of Florida. Outer-band squalls and showers are expected before daybreak, but no major storm cells are expected to reach the Resort. So, while Extra Magic Hours have been canceled for this morning, all of the Resort's guest areas except for Fort Wilderness Campground are expected to open during their regular hours today (with Magic Kingdom hosting Extra Magic Hours tonight from 10 p.m. until Midnight).

As of 8 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time last night, Dorian had become a less severe Category 2 hurricane with its center located in the Atlantic Ocean about 170 miles southeast of Walt Disney World Resort. In an abundance of caution, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom closed at 2 p.m., and Magic Kingdom closed at 3 p.m. Epcot and Disney Springs originally were announced to be closing then too, but, by midday, with the forecast for the region remaining fairly calm, Disney decided to keep Epcot open until 7 p.m. and Disney Springs until 8 p.m. (At 11 p.m. last night, the center of the storm was about 150 miles due East of the Resort; about 90 miles off of the Atlantic Coast.)

With the forecast for potential impacts of Dorian hovering over the Resort all last week, guests visiting the parks could find evidence of storm preparations everywhere. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, for example, opened on Thursday without the sort of light-fixture banners we are used to seeing decorating the park. By the weekend, the park's more permanent collection of banners could be seen rolled up and secured in place, and many light fixtures had been wrapped in plastic to protect the glass. For those that like getting to peek at on-going construction work around the resort, construction scrims were removed from projects all around the property too (we have some around Epcot in our Views Around the World).

Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.

According to Central Florida weather forecasters, we are still a couple of weeks shy of the statistical peak of the Atlantic's tropical storm season, and several more disturbances are being tracked as we publish (though none have yet been identified as specific threats). While tropical storms can occur at any time of year, the "season" runs from May until December and typically hits its peak in mid-September. The last hurricane that closed Walt Disney World's parks (and directly impacted the Resort) was Irma which traveled north through Florida September 10-12, 2017. Guests that plan to travel to the Resort at this time of year should be aware of the potential of these storms, but also should be aware that the Disney Resort Hotels are built well-above the construction standards necessary for the storms that have passed through the region over the years. Indeed, many locals (and those from coastal regions) take refuge by renting rooms (often discounted) in Disney Hotels during the storms because Disney has its own power supply and other facilities to comfort and entertain guests. Kudos are owed to cast members that sign up to ride out the storms!

And, speaking of "ride out" cast members, Disney Cruise Line routinely has a crew that remain on Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the Bahamas. Some on social media this week, as Dorian was bearing down on the islands, seemed oblivious to the notion that a storm shelter is in place on Castaway Cay, complete with its own power supply, plumbing, and provisions for the crew. In response to some of the outcry over the weekend, DCL wrote on its website: "As forecasted, sustained winds on the island did not extend beyond tropical force strength and our Crew has returned to their living quarters after spending a few hours in our storm shelter."

Last night, The Walt Disney Company announced that it has "committed more than $1 million in cash and in-kind support to help relief and recovery efforts for those in The Bahamas affected by Hurricane Dorian." Disney says that it will donate $1 million to non-profit relief agencies in the impacted area. "We stand with the Bahamian people, and especially those in Abaco and Grand Bahama, as they recover from the worst storm ever to make landfall in The Bahamas. As the needs in these communities are assessed, we are prepared to aid the relief and recovery efforts through funding, the provision of supplies and by providing support to our Bahamian Crew Members," said Jeff Vahale, president of Disney Cruise Line.

José Andrés, the celebrity chef behind Disney Springs restaurant Jaleo (and others around Washington, D.C., Las Vegas and more), has also pledged to feed thousands of people in the path of Hurricane Dorian in The Bahamas according to this video report by NBC-4 in Washington, D.C.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is Open

If you did not already know, last Thursday, August 29, Disney's Hollywood Studios opened the doors to the Resort's largest, single-themed expansion ever, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. We provided coverage on our Social Media channels and a wrap-up in a full article here on MousePlanet.com. On opening day, the nearly identical twin to the new land out at Disneyland in Anaheim, a virtual queue was used to pulse guests in to the new land. At some point during the day, we noticed that Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run, the only ride-type attraction currently operating in the new land, posted a 300 minute standby queue. But, by late in the afternoon on Thursday, the virtual queue was no longer necessary to enter the land and the standby times to fly the Falcon were in the less than a couple hour range. Similarly, on Friday, we did not see the virtual land-entry queue in use and, as Dorian took aim at the region over the weekend, that did not seem to change nor crazy-high standby queues form for the ride.

During the media event, we spotted a possible meeting of members of the Resistance with vendors at the Coca-Cola cart. The special themed beverage bottles were briefly the subject of social media discussion last week as to whether the TSA would permit them aboard airplanes, but, in the end, the TSA ruled that empty bottles could be brought in carry-on and full ones could be packed in checked luggage. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

In the five years that I have lived in Central Florida, the weeks on either side of Labor Day typically have been low attendance weeks in the parks. Epcot has tried to offset that in recent years by opening Epcot International Food & Wine Festival earlier and earlier; and, this year, it opened on Thursday as well. The opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and Food and Wine both saw big crowds, but, with Dorian forecast to make landfall over the weekend and the norm being quiet weeks around here, it is hard to say just how the crowd levels were vis-a-vis expectations. The next major change coming to the equation is the December 5 scheduled opening of the Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance attraction that Disney bills as the most ambitious attraction it has ever undertaken. As we noted when we got a sneak peek guided tour by Imagineer Scott Trowbridge last week, what we have seen so far does live up to that hype.

Photo released by Disney Parks Blog.

During the media event in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge last week, I had an opportunity to check out a few of the Disney PhotoPass Magic Shots available in the new land. Two of the shots depend on special cameras (one which is permanently mounted near the First Order's Tie Echelon); as with any photo spots in the park, be sure to ask the Disney Photo Pass photographers what Magic Shots they have available.

The super-zoom Magic Shot uses a specially mounted camera that is trigged by a Photo Pass cast member with a tablet.

A special 360º camera captures an interesting view of Batuu and you.

A more "traditional" Magic Shot includes a porg. (And, a big thanks to #DisneyParksLIVE host Mark Daniel for joining me for the photo.)

Epcot Concerts & Candlelight Processional News and Calendar

The American Gardens Theatre presents the Eat to the Beat Concert Series three times nightly through November 18 as part of this year's edition of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Concert showtimes are scheduled Sundays through Thursdays at 5:30, 6:45, and 8:00 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays, an hour later, at 6:30, 7:45, and 9:00 p.m. The entire schedule is published, but, of course, always keep an eye out for signs when you enter the park noting last minute changes. There are even more details and you can make reservations for dining packages including guaranteed concert seating by visiting TasteEpcot.com or calling (407)939-3378. Eat to the Beat Concert Series concludes on November 18, but the Food & Wine Festival continues until November 23.

Joey Fatone will be appearing "With Friends" from November 12-14, 2019, for Eat to the Beat Concerts. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

With the Fountain of Nations slated for removal, the Dance du Jour party takes place on a stage on the Future World East side of Innoventions East during this year's Festival.

The slightly early end of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series allows for preparation of the theatre for the seasonal return of Candlelight Processional. During the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, Candlelight Processional combines a live orchestra, massed choir and celebrity narrator in the retelling of the traditional Christmas story three times per night (5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 p.m.), from November 29 to December 30. Neil Patrick Harris, Gary Sinise, Whoopi Goldberg, Pat Sajak, Steven Curtis Chapman, Edward James Olmos, and Lisa Ling are all scheduled as celebrity narrators. Guaranteed seating is available by booking a breakfast, lunch, or dinner Candlelight Processional Dining Package at select Epcot eateries. Availability is limited and advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit. Bookings for Candlelight Processional Dining Packages opened on July 3. EpcotHolidays.com is the page where you can find Festival information and Candlelight Processional Dining Packages (or call 407-WDW-DINE).

Neil Patrick Harris is scheduled to return to Epcot to narrate Candlelight Procession for the 12th year. File photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

For the convenience of our readers, all of the scheduled Eat to the Beat Concert Series performers and announced Celebrity Narrators for Candlelight Processional at America Gardens Theatre are shown in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. You can add the whole Event calendar to any calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link and, as we get additional information and update the calendar, the calendar will update on your subscribed device as well.

While our Google Calendar of Epcot Events lists announced performers, it is still always best to check the My Disney Experience app, Times Guide, and, yes, sometimes even signs posted at the park entrances and at the theater noting any last minute changes. The calendar is provided as a courtesy "as is, where is" without any guarantees. We do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. Walt Disney World Resort does provide schedules in the My Disney Experience app, but does not allow you to add dates to calendars outside the app itself.

Views Around the World

Lots of Hurricane Dorian preparation around Epcot meant additional views of some of the construction work in the park. Of course, this week also saw the start of the longest Epcot International Food and Wine Festival and a few more views around the Resort.

Gallery of Arts and History at Morocco Pavilion is closed for refurbishment. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.

The theater that previously was home to O Canada is currently being used as Appleseed Orchard. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.

Epcot Future World Transformation & Entry Construction Projects

Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.

Disney's Animal Kingdom

The Simba Passholder magnet was available for only a very limited time starting last Thursday at Disney's Animal Kingdom (and, according to social media reports, supplies ran out ahead of schedule). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Though Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is now open, the Star Wars-A Galaxy, Far, Far Away show continues to be presented several times daily on the center stage in front of the Chinese Theatre. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.

Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.

This and That…

…Disney Parks Blog showed off some of the more than 40 original pieces of art created to decorate Disney's Riviera Resort which blend Disney characters and icons with European storytelling and the stylings of "master artists who found inspiration along the Riviera during the late 19th and early 20th centuries."

…New Sith Trooper merchandise inspired by the upcoming film Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is now available in the parks. Have a look on Disney Parks Blog.

…REMINDER: Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort presents the return of its Food & Wine Classic on Friday, November 8, and Saturday, November 9. For its 10th year, the Classic will debut a surf party-themed area called Hang 10 on the resort's beach, with a live band, decorations, and two new dishes: Fry Basket (clams, shrimp, oysters and fries) and Hearts of Palm Ceviche. The area will also offer new beverage selections, including Spritzes and hard seltzer water. Returning themed areas include The Pig and The Poke, Chinatown, Carnival Corner, The Bubble Lounge, and a beer garden. For information and tickets, visit SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com or call 1-888-828-8850.

…REMINDER: Lots of restaurants around Walt Disney World Resort will again participate in Visit Orlando's Magical Dining 2019. Including more than 120 restaurants around the Orlando area, the program in its 14th year, runs through September 30, 2019. Participating restaurants offer special prix-fixe dinners for $35 per person, and $1 for each meal served benefits local charities. Visit the official website for Magical Dining 2019 for the list of participating restaurants and more details.

…REMINDER: The 2020 Disney Parks Moms Panel Search will open at noon Eastern on September 5, and will run through noon Eastern on September 12. Entering its 13th year, the "Search" seeks folks with personal experience with Disney Destinations and evaluates applicants based on their ability to communicate that knowledge to prospective guests in "easy-to-understand and friendly ways." As Disney Parks Blog says:

the Disney Parks Moms Panel is the "official" digital forum for Guests to ask detailed personal questions about planning a variety of Disney vacations. Helpful tips, heartfelt advice and unique insights are provided from real guests who have mastered the art of planning Disney vacations. The panel also offers tips in four languages – English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. To find out more, visit momspanelsearch.com.

…REMINDER: Special extra Extra Magic Hours for Disney Resort hotel guests began September 1, and are scheduled daily through November 2, at Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios (including, of course, its Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge area).

…The MousePlanet Newsletter is here! The newsletter contains a recap of the week's articles (in case you miss a day), news that may have developed since the weekly Updates were published, and tips about what's happening at the Disney theme parks for the coming weekend. We'll also include a fun bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your email in the box below.

New & Coming Soon at Disney Springs

This section collects all of the Disney Springs retail and dining events we are aware of in one place along with our most recent views of the area (including those immediately under this paragraph). Event items NEW to the Update are marked accordingly. For even more of the latest news around Disney Springs, follow its official Twitter Feed: @DisneySprings.

Wine Bar George

NEW Join George for a blind tasting of six wines during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Learn to taste wine like a professional on September 14 or 21 from 3:30-5:00 p.m. Tickets and more information are on this EventBrite webpage. Afterwards, as always, stay for dinner and choose from more than 140 wines by the glass, bottle and ounce alongside small plates and family style entrees.

Beatrix

Longtime readers of this Update know that I was a long-time Chicagoan before moving to Central Florida and taking over the digital ink in this space. As a long-time Chicagoan, I was well-familiar with the many Chicagoland restaurants (and some in other cities, including Las Vegas) owned by Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and have often dined at several of them. This past week, Disney Parks Blog announced that the group's Beatrix restaurant will open a new venue at Disney Springs West Side (at an unspecified date or location).

Beatrix is your neighborhood restaurant, coffeehouse and grab-and-go market featuring healthy food options including vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan along with fresh-squeezed juice cocktails. The restaurant will also offer a bakery and full-service bar with a selection of all-American beer and wine.

There are several existing Beatrix restaurants in Chicagoland which you can read about at Beatrixrestaurants.com.

The Edison

NEW DATE: The Second Annual "A Gatsby Evening at The Edison" has been rescheduled to Thursday, September 19. Guests are invited to get "dolled up in your best flapper attire, donning your 1920s style suits" to celebrate the great novel by "dancing the night away in style." A few glasses of complimentary Moet Champagne will be served and a selection of passed signature appetizers will be available for attendees. The evening's entertainment includes a red carpet arrival, live music, stilt walkers, an aerialist, dancers, a crystal balancer, a magician and a complimentary photo station. Doors open at 7 p.m. but only to guests 21 or older. Tickets are $79/person (plus tax and gratuity) with more information at this Patina Restaurant Group web page. NEW The Edison is offering Cast Members a 15% discount for the event.

Raglan Road

Thanks! The folks at Raglan Road invited us to the media preview on Friday of the 8th Great Irish Hooley. Many of the dishes and acts that headlined this year's festivities over the Labor Day weekend will be permanent parts of the venue's menu and entertainment offerings. Have a look at our Instagram Story Highlights and a few more views from our Facebook posts here.

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Resort Events

Check here to see if a park event might fall during your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you know of any in-park events, official or unofficial, that should be listed here, please send us an email. More runDisney event information

Just click the year you want to expand (or close).

2019 Resort Events

2020 Resort Events

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Refurbishments and Attraction Closures

Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. All refurbishment schedules are estimates only. We recommend checking for updates as you plan your visit. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, visit DisneyWorld.com or use the MyDisneyExperience App on your iOS or Android device.

View the different areas of the Resort by scrolling horizontally and selecting the one you want to read about.

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Current Discounts and Promotions

Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Walt Disney World Resort Update. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the intended audience. Check out the category that best matches you, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers.

Walt Disney World Resort theme park tickets are rarely offered at deep discounts unless you are a resident of Florida or eligible for U.S. Military Personnel benefits. It is increasingly true that non-Florida residents tend to benefit the most by purchasing tickets in advance (and, of course, being mindful of the rules relevant to those tickets). As prices go up, it becomes even more important to pay heed: Don't get scammed! Never buy tickets from an unofficial or secondary outlet, such as through eBay or Craigslist. Never rent or purchase tickets from people approaching you outside Disney property stating they have remaining days or leftover tickets. This practice is against the terms of use for Walt Disney World Theme Park admissions, and may result in denial of entry. There is no way to determine if these tickets are valid until you try to use them to enter the parks. Only purchase Disney theme park tickets directly from Disney, an authorized seller, or a travel agency like MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Today.

 

 

Be sure to move the calendar to at least seven (7) days out, to see what ticket options and discounts are available for your planned visit.

Just click the category you want to expand (or close).

For Everyone

For Annual Passholders

For Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders

For Military Personnel

For Florida Residents

For Disney Vacation Club Members

For New England Residents

For Canada Residents

For U.K. Residents

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