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We're breaking down everything you need to know about using gift cards at Walt Disney World and why they might be one of the most underrated tools for planning and budgeting your vacation.Whether you've received a Disney gift card as a gift, plan to purchase them ahead of your trip, or are just looking for a smarter way to manage spending in the parks, gift cards can make a huge difference. We walk through exactly where Disney gift cards are accepted — from theme parks and water parks to resorts, Disney Springs, tickets, special events, and more. We also explain how to use Disney gift cards for mobile food ordering in the My Disney Experience app, making quick-service meals and snacks even easier.We'll also discuss why gift cards are so popular with seasoned Disney travelers, including how they help control spending, simplify purchases, and even save money when you take advantage of discounts from places like Target or warehouse clubs. Plus, we cover how to use gift cards to pay off resort room charges, manage multiple cards by combining balances, and avoid common mistakes that can catch guests off guard.We even touch on using gift cards with kids, why they're great for teaching budgeting, and what other types of gift cards may work around Walt Disney World. If you're trying to stay on budget without losing the magic — or just want fewer surprises when the bill comes — this episode is packed with practical tips you can actually use.
Welcome to our 2026 music series. This year we will have a special new theme for each episode throughout the year. For our first music episode, our theme is "Adventures in Music" Every song included has to do with music theory, making music, and the magic of music. Enjoy! Download (right click / save as) Visit our on-line store for exclusive Jiminy Crickets and DisneyChris Website Merch!!! !https://jcpodcast.threadless.com/If you would like to help support the Jiminy Crickets podcasts and DisneyChris.com - Please consider becoming a Patreon Subscriber and receive exclusive rewards every month. https://www.patreon.com/c/DisneyChris
We're sharing our full review of the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, one of our favorite and most creative festivals of the year. Running from January 16 through February 23, 2026, this festival blends food, visual art, and live entertainment in a way only EPCOT can — and we're breaking down everything you need to know before you go.We start with the basics, including when to visit, how long to plan for, and why this is one festival that truly benefits from multiple days. We also share practical tips like where to stay for easy access (hello, BoardWalk and Skyliner resorts), why weekends can be especially crowded, and how being comfortable, budgeting ahead, and sharing dishes can seriously improve your experience.From there, we dive into the heart of the festival — the visual art and galleries, interactive elements, and live entertainment offerings. We talk about the Once Upon a Stage: The Magic of Disney on Broadway exhibit and the Disney on Broadway Concert Series at the America Gardens Theatre, featuring show-stopping performances and Broadway talent like Adam Jacobs and Isabelle McCalla.Of course, no Festival of the Arts review would be complete without food. We cover the food studios, festival merchandise, and the always-fun Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine, including how it works, whether it's worth doing, and tips for completing it at your own pace.If you're wondering whether Festival of the Arts is worth a dedicated visit — or how to tackle it the right way — this episode has you covered.
On today's episode we are sharing common things that people wish they knew before their first Disney World Vacation!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!
In celebration of the recent 200th episode of the Jiminy Crickets Podcast, DisneyChris and Ruthie continue their list (in no particular order) of their shared picks as the 200 top things they most love about Disney. PART 2 Download (right click / save as)Visit our on-line store for exclusive Jiminy Crickets and DisneyChris Website Merch!!!!https://jcpodcast.threadless.com/If you would like to help support the Jiminy Crickets podcasts and DisneyChris.com - Please consider becoming a Patreon Subscriber and receive exclusive rewards every month. https://www.patreon.com/c/DisneyChris
Have you ever been to Disneyland Paris ? Evan and Bryan are joined by our west coast correspondent Kristy Collins who recently took a trip to Disneyland Paris as part of her European trip. She provides a great view of the parks and the differences between WDW and DLR . She looks at attractions, food, hotels and even castmembers and merch. Listen in for this very unique discussion about a park we do not talk about much ------------------------------------------------------ If you want to join us and discuss your trip or any of the topics we chat about, provide a trip report or even just ask questions, please reach out to us on our Facebook page, Spoonie Nation, Instagram or Twitter all episodes, show notes, and everything about our podcast here
We're breaking down our full VIP Tour experience and putting real numbers behind one of Disney's most talked-about (and most expensive) offerings. We go far beyond the “it was amazing” review and dig into the math, comparing VIP Tours directly to Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Lightning Lane Single Pass, Lightning Lane Premier Pass, After Hours events, and seasonal party tickets.You'll hear how much we actually accomplished during our tour, how it compares to a well-planned Lightning Lane day, and when alternatives like After Hours events or party nights might make more sense. We also discuss who VIP Tours are truly designed for, who should absolutely skip them, and where the real break-even point starts to appear.We'll walk through current pricing, hourly costs, per-person breakdowns, and dollar-per-hour comparisons so you can see exactly what you're paying for — and what you're not. We also talk about what VIP Tours include that Disney doesn't always advertise, how group size completely changes the value, and why this experience is less about luxury and more about time, flexibility, and mental freedom.If you've ever wondered whether a VIP Tour is a bucket-list splurge, a smart group strategy, or just Disney pricing gone wild — this episode gives you the honest breakdown you've been looking for.
A new year of WDW magic is upon us! In this episode, Morgan and Jake discuss which magical new additions they are most excited for in the coming year. From charming attractions coming to Hollywood Studios — like the Magic of Animation and Rock N Rollercoaster Starring The Muppets — to updated attractions like Big Thunder Mountain and Frozen Ever After, you won't want to miss a single moment of the new magic planned for the parks in 2026.Listen along and join the Dis-cussion on social media @neverlandnavco
Back at DisneylandLet us reflect on FOMOStar Wars in new hands
Hey Ohana, This week we're diving into one of our favorite attractions in all WDW... Spaceship Earth! And we're doing it with our new friend Tim Foster from Celebrations Magazine!!! Together we chat about the history of the attraction, the story/design, the impact the attraction and structure have had on us, discuss a little bit about what the future may hold, all while reviewing Tim's new book on the attraction SPOLIER... IT IS AWESOME!!!!! Thanks you again to our guest Tim - be sure to check out everything Celebrations has to offer over at celebrationspress.com! Also, thank you to a our friend and the official TA of MTADA, Sue Pasauer! Sue is affiliated with MEI & Mouse Fan Travel and can help you plan the perfect Disney trip! Thanks again for tuning in and as always... See Ya Real Soon! DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone.
Today, Mike, Pam & Scott are back with an email from Listener Billy where he shares 5 different "armchair Imagineering" situations for us to consider. From bringing new transportation systems, resorts, lands, restaurants, and attractions to Walt Disney World, hear what we would do and then, let us know your thoughts on how you would improve the overall WDW experience if money were no object! Please share your thoughts over on the Discord channel at www.beourguestpodcast.com/clubhouse. We hope you enjoy today's podcast! Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com. Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast. Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast. Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!
We're setting the table for EPCOT's most creative festival and getting you ready for opening weekend. Before we head into the parks for our full review next week, we're taking a step back to talk expectations, favorites, and a whole lot of food. First, we break down where EPCOT Festival of the Arts ranks for us among EPCOT's four annual festivals and why it continues to punch above its weight despite being the shortest of the bunch.From there, we each reveal our Top 5 returning Festival of the Arts dishes, sharing the items that have stuck with us year after year and seeing just how much overlap there is between our lists. These are the bites we still think about, still recommend, and would absolutely order again without hesitation. Then it's time to look ahead as we each share our Top 5 new dishes we're most excited to try this year, based purely on menus, descriptions, and presentation. No reviews yet — just hype, curiosity, and a little healthy skepticism.We wrap things up by talking about which booths we're heading to first, which dishes have the most pressure to live up to expectations, and teasing our full opening weekend review coming next Friday. Whether you're attending Festival of the Arts for the first time or already planning your must-do food stops, this episode is the perfect appetizer for what's to come.
On this episode of Theme Park Thursday with Dillo's Diz, Jen and Frank discuss a variety of topics including reflections on Marathon Weekend, plans for their next Dillo's Diz meetup and whether or not they can be nostalgic for a WDW entrance. ***
On today's episode we are sharing our favorite things from Epcot's Festival of the Arts!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!
We're taking a look at how our Disney opinions have changed over time — from the way we plan and tour to how we handle crowds, dining, resorts, and even souvenirs. Some of these shifts came from experience, some from necessity, and some from simply realizing that what worked years ago doesn't always work now.We talk through big-picture topics like how much planning is actually too much, whether rope drop is always worth it, and how our thoughts on table-service dining and midday breaks have evolved. We also dive into crowd tolerance, how much time to spend at the resort, traveling with kids at different ages, and why Disney Springs has slowly become a bigger part of our trips.This isn't about saying one way is right and another is wrong — it's about understanding that Disney trips change as you do. Whether you're a first-timer, a seasoned visitor, traveling with kids, or just looking for a more relaxed approach, this episode is all about finding what works best for you.If you've ever looked back at an old Disney habit and thought, “Why did we do it that way?” — this one's for you.
Send us a message with feedback or questions!Welcome to the latest episode of The Florida Project – the podcast where Disney fans celebrate Walt Disney World and all things Disney! In this episode, we'll look back at our top 10 disney things from 2025 and the top 10 disney things we're looking forward to in 2026! All of that and more is coming up on this week's episode of the Florida Project!-- Recorded on January 9, 2026Small TopicKeep It or Kick ItDiscussion TopicTop 10 Disney Treasures from 2025 & Top 10 Disney Treasures Coming in 2026Upcoming EpisodesNo episode next week due to work travelPlugsJason: @Schmuck00Will: @ThyWillBDunnMichael: @MichaelMcDuckSite: http://www.tfppodcast.comBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tfppodcast.bsky.socialInstagram: http://instagram.com/tfppodcastThreads: https://www.threads.net/@tfppodcastPatreon: http://www.patreon.com/tfppodcastSupport the show
To all who come to this happy podcast, welcome! Join the creator and host, Scott Jacobs, for the Season 5 premiere of The Mouse and Me, which will be coming your way real soon! Scott's interviewed so many incredible Guests from Disney's Broadway shows including actors, a Tony award-winning choreographer, composers, musicians, conductors, and head of props for Aladdin, Mary Poppins, The Lion King, and more. He's also talked with former and current Cast Members who are authors, performers in the parks, Disney Cruise Line performers, entertainment managers, comedians, technicians, an Imagineer, a prop master, and more. Scott has a great lineup of Guests for Season 5 and he can't wait to share those interviews with you. Now we can't tell you who they are but what we can tell you is they've done some amazing things for THE WALT DISNEY Company. One of them might be an Emmy Award-winning (and nine-time Emmy nominated) composer. One of them might be a Tony-nominated performer who's also directed and choreographed on Broadway, acted on television and in movies and worked with Steven Spielberg. One of them might be a beauty. One of them might've been good friends with Mickey Mouse. And one of them might've worked for THE WALT DISNEY Company for 38 years and actually met Walt Disney. There are also Magical Moments episodes. If you're new to the show, these episodes allow Scott to do deeper dives on topics like DL vs WDW attractions, Cars Land in California Adventure, and “Ready for Takeoff,” which is all about Soarin' just to name a few. Some of the Magical Moments that he's working on for this season include interesting facts about Epcot's World Showcase, WDW transportation fun facts, and the fastest rides from every Disney park around the world.In the trip recap episodes, Scott talks about the things he did in the parks and on Disney property and these episodes are extra fun because he does in the moment audio recordings, where talks with Cast Members and other Guests about a host of different topics.That's all for now - stay tuned for the Season 5 premiere of The Mouse and Me coming your way real soon!Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.comSupport: www.patreon.com/themouseandmeFB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”Music by Kevin MacLeod from https://incompetech.filmmusic.io
We're putting Disney's Old Key West Resort head-to-head with Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa to see which laid-back villa resort comes out on top.Both resorts offer spacious accommodations, boat access to Disney Springs, and a slower, more relaxed pace than your typical theme park hotel—but they go about it in very different ways. Old Key West brings Florida Keys charm, oversized villas, and that “this feels like home” energy that longtime DVC fans love. Saratoga Springs counters with elegant Victorian theming, newer-feeling rooms, Treehouse Villas, and one of the best locations for easy Disney Springs access.We break things down round by round, comparing theming and atmosphere, room size and comfort, dining options, transportation and walkability, recreation and amenities, and overall value for your vacation dollars or DVC points. As always, we leave the final decision open during the episode so you can play along at home and decide which resort deserves the crown. Is bigger always better? Does location beat nostalgia? And which one truly delivers the best Disney resort experience?Grab your scorecard, settle in, and let the Resort Wars begin.
Send us a message with feedback or questions!Welcome to the latest episode of The Florida Project – the podcast where Disney fans celebrate Walt Disney World and all things Disney! In this episode, we'll discuss some nonsense in small topics and discuss Will's recent trip to Walt Disney World for Christmas! All of that and more is coming up on this week's episode of the Florida Project!-- Recorded on January 2, 2026Small TopicIns & Outs at Walt Disney World for 2026Discussion TopicWill's Holiday Trip ReviewUpcoming EpisodesLooking Ahead at 2026 at Walt Disney WorldPlugsJason: @Schmuck00Will: @ThyWillBDunnMichael: @MichaelMcDuckSite: http://www.tfppodcast.comBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tfppodcast.bsky.socialInstagram: http://instagram.com/tfppodcastThreads: https://www.threads.net/@tfppodcastPatreon: http://www.patreon.com/tfppodcastSupport the show
I'm joined by my friend Sean from But Mostly Disney, and we're putting Walt Disney World's wait times officially on trial. Using real guest data — including polls, reviews, ratings, historic wait times from Thrill Data, and actual ride length — we break down the top fifteen Walt Disney World attractions to answer the question every Disney fan has asked while standing in a long line: is this ride actually worth the wait?This isn't just a list of the longest lines or the most popular rides. We dig into the numbers behind each attraction, compare average and peak wait times, and then stack that data up against what really matters — the experience. From immersion and theming to thrills, pacing, re-ride value, and emotional payoff, we look at what each ride gives back once you finally step off.Along the way, we debate if nostalgia earns certain attractions a little extra grace, and whether short, one-and-done rides can ever justify 90+ minute waits. We also talk about queue theming, first-time riders versus annual passholders, and which attractions hold up ride after ride — and which ones might be living off reputation alone.Expect strong opinions, friendly discussion, and plenty of “I can't believe this wait” moments as we break it all down.
Lisa is preparing to go on a mother/daughter girls' trip that has evolved into a larger girls' trip, including Lisa, daughter Bekah, mom Cheri (who hasn't been to WDW in 25 years), sister-in-law Randy, and niece Sarah. As they say, the more the merrier! This glorious group has plans to do three days of park-hopping and will be prioritizing the magic of the holidays with a Candlelight Processional dining package and tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Trip Dates: December 4-9, 2025 Pre-Trip Interview: recorded 11/9/25 Episode Specific Links: Follow Lisa on Instagram (@lmcazes) and if you are interested in connecting with her as a travel agent, you can reach out to her on Facebook Lisa's travel agent for this trip was Margie with All for Fun Travel Lego Star Wars Gingerbread AT AT Be Our Guest: Do you have an upcoming trip you'd like to share? Submit your trip information here to be considered as a podcast guest. Get in Touch: If you would like to reach out to Virginia for something other than a trip report guest submission (for that use the link above!), you may email whereilongtobepodcast@gmail.com. Follow: Instagram: @whereilongtobepodcast Facebook: @whereilongtobepodcast TikTok: @whereilongtobepodcast Website: whereilongtobepodcast.com
Disney World At LastNew Years Eve With Friends And FunCoast to Coast Magic
We're hitting pause, looking back, and taking stock of just how big 2025 was for Disney — before turning our eyes forward to what 2026 has in store for Walt Disney World and beyond.From emotional goodbyes to major park areas, to brand-new lounges, shows, and even a brand-new Disney park announcement overseas, 2025 delivered some of the most impactful Disney news we've seen in years. We break down the biggest announcements from the past year, including park closures, major transformations, new entertainment, and the changes that are already reshaping the Disney parks we know and love.Then, we shift gears and look ahead to 2026, a year that's shaping up to be absolutely packed. We talk through the Walt Disney World calendar, including festival dates, attraction reopenings, special events, and some guest perks. From refreshed classics like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, to re-themed experiences like the Muppets-themed Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, updated Frozen Ever After animatronics, new Soarin' adventures, and more, there's a lot to be excited about.We also cover returning favorites like After Hours events, seasonal parties, EPCOT festivals, and what families can look forward to throughout the year.Whether you're planning a trip, keeping up with Disney news, or just love talking theme parks, this episode is your perfect reset heading into 2026 — full of context, excitement, and a little bit of Disney optimism.
On today's episode we are discussing all the exciting things coming to the Disney parks in 2026 at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland!
In this month's "Best of" Chris and Ruthie revisit part one of a two part episode originally released in March of 2020 in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Walt Disney classic, "Pinocchio." This being the 85th anniversary year, we felt it was apt to share this episode again. March 4, 2020:This episode pays tribute to one of the greatest animated films of all time, Walt Disney's tour de force of hand-drawn technical brilliance, "Pinocchio," which is celebrating 80 years of bringing love, laughter and timeless entertainment to those who believe in wishes coming true. Ruthie and Chris take you through the entire plot of the film, as they discuss its memorable characters, songs, behind-the-scenes development, the artists who worked on this unmatched production, many little known fun facts, insider trivia, and the film's lasting legacy. Chris also presents his usual musical moments including some rare archival audio. The episode culminates with Ruthie and Chris discussing their favorite songs, scenes and characters, as well as their own personal connections to this magical movie masterpiece. Download (right click / save as) Visit our on-line store for exclusive Jiminy Crickets and DisneyChris Website Merch!!!!https://jcpodcast.threadless.com/If you would like to help support the Jiminy Crickets podcasts and DisneyChris.com - Please consider becoming a Patreon Subscriber and receive exclusive rewards every month. https://www.patreon.com/c/DisneyChris
We're diving into Disney behaviors that should absolutely be socially accepted everywhere, because somehow the parks figured out how humans actually want to function… and then we all had to go back home. From skipping lines like a pro to paying for everything with your wrist, Disney has quietly raised our expectations for daily life — and we're not mad about it.We're counting down our favorite habits, systems, and quirks that feel perfectly normal inside the Disney bubble but earn you very strange looks anywhere else. Things like Lightning Lanes for everyday errands, posted wait times for places that desperately need them (looking at you, DMV), mobile ordering everything, and treating Cast Members — aka employees — like the absolute legends they are.We'll also talk about why these ideas actually make sense, how they could lower stress, save time, and maybe even make people a little nicer to each other. Shocking concept, right? This episode is lighthearted, relatable, and guaranteed to have you saying, “Why don't we do it this way?”No trip planning, no ride rankings — just a fun, slightly chaotic look at how Disney logic might secretly be the blueprint for a better real world. And yes… Lightning Lanes is our hill to die on.
With 2026 just around the corner, now is the perfect time to discover all of the ways Walt Disney World rings in the New Year! Although some of Walt Disney World's most charming New Year traditions are in its past (R.I.P. Pleasure Island!), there are still a variety of enchanting ways to kick a new year off in style across the resort. Whether you've considered braving the crowds at Magic Kingdom or dancing the night away at EPCOT, you'll want to hear all about the magical celebrations hosted at the parks and even at some WDW resorts.Listen along and join the Dis-cussion on social media @neverlandnavco
In today's part 2 episode, Vickie and Rebecca cover the remaining events of their Christmas 2025 trifecta trip to WDW in Orlando. They enjoyed many events, celebrations, and activities! They're here to give you all the remaining scoop. Be sure to join them as they talk through the last couple of days of their trip spent in the parks and at Disney Springs. Follow us on all our social media accounts on Facebook and on Twitter at @Mousecapadespod. Thinking about being a guest on our show, or have a question or comment? Contact us anytime via text or phone at 636-373-4497. Have a magical day my friends!
In our last episode of 2025, we discuss the festivities at WDW for the New Year's celebration. We hope you will join us!Send us a message by clicking here. We may read or respond to it in a future episode!Support the show
We're breaking down our full experience using the Candlelight Processional dining package at Garden Grill Restaurant, capped off with an unforgettable performance narrated by Gary Sinise.We walk you step-by-step through how the dining package works, what's included with the prix-fixe meal, and why Garden Grill continues to be one of the better overall choices when it comes to Candlelight dining packages. From the rotating restaurant views inside The Land Pavilion to the all-you-care-to-enjoy holiday meal, we'll share what stood out, what surprised us, and what you should know before booking.Of course, the highlight of the night was the Candlelight Processional itself. We'll talk about the reserved seating process, how early you really need to arrive, and why having a guaranteed seat can completely change your holiday experience at EPCOT. We also dive into what makes Gary Sinise such a powerful and emotional narrator, and why his performances consistently rank among the most talked-about each year.Whether you're visiting EPCOT during the Festival of the Holidays, trying to decide between standby and a dining package, or simply want a more relaxed way to experience Candlelight, this episode will help you decide if this is the right option for your trip.Grab a cozy drink, settle in, and let's talk food, holiday traditions, and one of EPCOT's most meaningful seasonal experiences.
This episode is a little different — because it was recorded live, unfiltered, and full of holiday chaos. No edits, no do-overs, just festive fun with the Main Street Magic community from start to finish.We kick things off by catching up and diving straight into Would You Rather: Disney Holiday Edition, letting the live chat decide between some tough holiday-themed Disney choices. From there, things get even more festive as we set the stage for a very special guest appearance.Santa himself joins the show live (with Rhonda holding down the Lounge), where he takes on Naughty or Nice: Disney Edition, judges questionable park behavior, and answers listener questions in real time. It's unpredictable, hilarious, and exactly the kind of chaos you can only get when you go live.After Santa heads back to the North Pole and Jeremy returns, we wrap things up with Eat It or Beat It: Holiday Edition, breaking down holiday dishes from around the world and letting the audience vote on what they'd actually eat.This episode is pure Main Street Lounge — festive, interactive, a little messy, and completely uncut. Pour yourself something cozy and enjoy the holiday magic.
In this episode, Vickie and Rebecca chat about their Christmas 2025 trip to WDW in Orlando where they enjoyed a trifecta of events and celebrations. They want to give you the scoop on it all, so we're splitting it into two episodes. Today is part 1 of 2. Be sure to join them as they talk through all the fun, food, and entertainment! Follow us on all our social media accounts on Facebook and on Twitter at @Mousecapadespod. Thinking about being a guest on our show, or have a question or comment? Contact us anytime via text or phone at 636-373-4497. Have a magical day my friends!
In the 278th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are wrapping up the year of podcast eps with the final (new) show of 2025! This go around, they open up with Jenn returning back from a whirlwind weekend at WDW, while Dave recounts a story from his own family meeting Star Lord at Epcot. The news gives the update on the Taylor Swift display in Hollywood Studios... Typhoon Lagoon closing and Blizzard Beach opening... Chef Art's Brunchmas... and charming little story about a couple spending their anniversaries at Disneyland - like, 70 of them... Plus happy birthday Dick Van Dyke! Then, in an update from our episode 82 in 2021, we look at the song "My Favorite Things", as sung by the immaculate Julie Andrews - and we give our favorite things - everything from places we want to return to and visit for the first time... favorite Disney dogs... snacks... pastas... where we'd be "basic"... where to get out of the rain... and even a little coffee talk. Plus our usual random sidebars and asides as we chat a little Disney magic and why we love to travel and help others do the same.
We're spending a full day exploring Universal's Epic Universe to see if it really does live up to the hype. From the moment you step into Celestial Park, it's clear this isn't just another theme park — it's a massive leap forward in immersive storytelling, ride technology, and atmosphere.We break down each world we explored, starting with Celestial Park and its stunning design, headlined by the thrilling Stardust Racers coaster. From there, we jump through portals into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, where the colors pop, the energy is nonstop, and attractions like Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Mine-Cart Madness bring video games to life in a way we've never seen before.Next, we head into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, where the details are next-level. We talk about our days experience with the flagship attraction Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, plus Le Cirque Arcanus, a Cirque-style live show featuring magical creatures, aerial performances, and a story pulled straight from the Wizarding World.We also explore How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, covering rides like Hiccup's Wing Gliders and the live stage show The Untrainable Dragon, before ending in the darker, moodier Dark Universe, home to classic Universal Monsters and standout attractions like Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.We share what surprised us most, what worked, what didn't, and where Epic Universe fits into the future of Universal Orlando. If you're planning a visit — or just want to know if it's worth the hype — this episode has you covered.
Our 2025 Music Series pays tribute to many of the legendary Disney animators and Imagineers, who were the creative geniuses behind many now beloved Disney animated classics and theme park attractions. Each episode will chronicle the career of the featured artist's work for Walt Disney through the use of music to represent their many Disney career highlights. Episode 10 of our 2025 Music Series pays tribute to, two Disney Legends. Famed illustrator Mary Blair was the imaginative concept artist behind many of Disney's classic animated films, from the mid 40s through the mid 50s, returning to Disney as an Imagineer in the 1960's, leaving her mark on many of the most beloved Disney attractions of all time. Rolly Crump was another of Disney's most imaginative Imagineers, putting his personal and unique touch on many classic Disney attractions.Download (right click / save as)Visit our on-line store for exclusive Jiminy Crickets and DisneyChris Website Merch!!!!https://jcpodcast.threadless.com/If you would like to help support the Jiminy Crickets podcasts and DisneyChris.com - Please consider becoming a Patreon Subscriber and receive exclusive rewards every month. https://www.patreon.com/c/DisneyChris
Christopher Gasti grew up in Orlando when WDW was being built and then wound up working at WDW, then Tokyo Disneyland, and ultimately at The Disneyland Resort. He did over 25 shows in the parks and did just as many parades and special events in cities including New York, LA, Toronto, Las Vegas, and Sao Paulo.These two fast friends wound up talking for quite some time and they didn't even come close to talking about everything Christopher has done for Disney! Also during the interview, the tables were turned on Scott a bunch of times!Their mutual friend and former podcast Guest, Lisa Leonard, introduced them to each other and Scott was so glad that she did! We know you're going to love hearing Christopher's stories about his time working for the Walt Disney Company as much as Scott did. Enjoy!Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.comSupport: www.patreon.com/themouseandmeFB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”Music by Kevin MacLeod from https://incompetech.filmmusic.io
In this episode, Vickie chats with fellow agent Matt and his wife Bethany about their recent family trip to WDW in Orlando during Thanksgiving 2025. They attended a couple of parties, enjoyed several parks, and just spent time with family during it all. They talk you through the food, rides, attractions, and more! Be sure to join us! Follow us on all our social media accounts on Facebook and on Twitter at @Mousecapadespod. Thinking about being a guest on our show, or have a question or comment? Contact us anytime via text or phone at 636-373-4497. Have a magical day my friends!
Send us a message with feedback or questions!Welcome to the latest episode of The Florida Project – the podcast where Disney fans celebrate Walt Disney World and all things Disney! In this episode, we'll spend the whole episode discussing the best and worst of Walt Disney World as of December 2025! All of that and more is coming up on this week's episode of the Florida Project!-- Recorded on December, 6 2025Discussion TopicThe Best and Worst of Walt Disney World (2025 Edition)Upcoming EpisodesDisney News Update (next week)PlugsJason: @Schmuck00Will: @ThyWillBDunnMichael: @MichaelMcDuckSite: http://www.tfppodcast.comBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tfppodcast.bsky.socialInstagram: http://instagram.com/tfppodcastThreads: https://www.threads.net/@tfppodcastPatreon: http://www.patreon.com/tfppodcastSupport the show
In this episode we travel across the country to see what things we can do in Disneyland in California that we can't in WDW in Florida. We hope you will hop on a flight with us!Send us a message by clicking here. We may read or respond to it in a future episode!Support the show
We're checking into Universal Helios Grand Hotel to see if this Celestial Park stunner truly lives up to the hype. From gorgeous views and modern rooms to breezy pool vibes and a rooftop bar that practically begs you to stay all night, we're breaking down everything you need to know about Universal's newest Signature resort.But before we get too relaxed, we do the exact opposite of relaxing… and launch ourselves straight into the Upside Down for the Sandbox VR Stranger Things experience. If you've ever wondered what it feels like to be a freshly recruited Hawkins Lab test subject — complete with haptic vests, free-roam VR, and Vecna breathing down your digital neck — this one's for you. We'll walk you through the story, the scares, the teamwork chaos, the Demogorgon encounters, and of course… who on our team “carried the squad” (the after-action video never lies).From high-end luxury at Helios Grand to high-intensity thrills in Stranger Things VR, we're covering food, vibes, gameplay, pricing, and whether these two experiences are worth adding to your next Universal vacation.
Episode 285 for the week of December 8, 2025 ... and this is what is going on in our Disney World...Last Week in Disney- Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True and Disney Hallmark holiday movie coming in 2026. Source: Disney Parks Blog- RnRC Pre-Show Blocked Off/Timeline of Retheme Revealed. Source: Disney Food Blog. Source: Disney Food Blog- Disney outlines what is coming to WDW and Disneyland in 2026. Source: Scott GustinStarts @1:27 ...Construction Update- Tropical Americas goes vertical! Starts @23:10 ...DBC Engagement: Sequels or Originals- The community shared what they feel is missing at Walt Disney World right nowStarts @29:36 ...* Reminder to like, subscribe, rate, and review the DBC Pod wherever you get your podcast *Send us an e-mail! .... thedbcpodcast@gmail.comFollow us on social media:- LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedbcpod - Bluesky: @thedbcpod.bsky.social- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheDBCPod/- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheDBCPod- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDBCPod- YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/thedbcpod- Discord Server: https://discord.com/invite/cJ8Vxf4BmQNote: This podcast is not affiliated with any message boards, blogs, news sites, or other podcasts
We're back and diving headfirst into the whirlwind that was our Thanksgiving weekend—because what better way to jump back in than with a little chaos, a little sparkle, and a whole lot of Disney?We kick things off at Disney Springs with a quick update on the brand-new Disney Drop Shop, a permanent addition to the Marketplace Co-Op that's basically a treasure chest for collectors. Blind boxes, Cosbi figures, Pop Mart surprises… if it's tiny, adorable, and dangerously addictive, it's probably in this shop.From there, we slide over to STK Orlando for a lunch that… well… didn't exactly steal our hearts. We break down what we ordered—from the Filet Sandwich and Wagyu Burger to the towering Parmesan Truffle Fries—and talk about why this meal left us scratching our heads more than licking our fingers.Then it's time to trade “meh” for “merry” as we step into the glitz and glow of Disney's Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios. We cover everything from early entry strategy to the incredible entertainment lineup, including Disney Holidays in Hollywood, the Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, and the stunning Glisten! ice-skating show. We explore special themed areas like Holiday Fiesta en la Calle, the Pixar Disco, and the always-fabulous Tip-Top Club, plus rare character sightings like Partysaurus Rex and Bing Bong!With festive snacks, low wait times on major attractions, and a party atmosphere that blends retro glam with Disney whimsy, Jollywood Nights truly shines.Join us as we recap the highs, lows, laughs, and magic of a very busy holiday weekend.
We are very lucky to have Listener Frank join us today from Ottawa to share his trip with us! We talk about a very special adventure where he surprised both is wife and daughter with a land/sea voyage this past August, where they got to stay Club-Level at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and then go on their first Disney Cruise on the Disney Wish before his daughter left for university a couple of weeks later! Hear about the reveal, the pre-trip, thoughts on staying at WDW without tickets, first-impressions of the Wish, a day at Castaway Cay, and much more! We hope you can continue the conversation with us this week in the Be Our Guest Podcast Clubhouse at www.beourguestpodcast.com/clubhouse! Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast. Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast. Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!
Thanksgiving was fun. Disney with cousins and friends. End the year with love.
In this month's "Best of" Chris, Ruthie and our former co-host Brain Crawford revisit part two of a two part episode originally released in October of 2020October 26 2020: This episode continues our tribute to Disney Legend and child star of six classic live-action Walt Disney films, Hayley Mills. Along with returning special guest Brian Crawford, Ruthie and Chris go through the remainder of Mills' Disney films - "The Moon Spinners," (1964) and "That Darn Cat." (1965) Then they discuss her career after her initial six years at Disney, including her other films, theatrical performances and television appearances including the Parent Trap made for TV sequels and the sitcom "Good Morning Miss Bliss." The episode concludes with Brian, Ruthie and Chris ranking their favorite Haley Mills Disney films, favorite songs and favorite co-stars, mixed in with many personal stories and anecdotes about their personal connections to this amazing star. Download (right click / save as) Visit our on-line store for exclusive Jiminy Crickets and DisneyChris Website Merch!!!!https://jcpodcast.threadless.com/If you would like to help support the Jiminy Crickets podcasts and DisneyChris.com - Please consider becoming a Patreon Subscriber and receive exclusive rewards every month. https://www.patreon.com/c/DisneyChris
Our 2025 Music Series pays tribute to many of the legendary Disney animators and Imagineers, who were the creative geniuses behind many now beloved Disney animated classics and theme park attractions. Each episode will chronicle the career of the featured artist's work for Walt Disney through the use of music to represent their many Disney career highlights. Episode 9 of our 2025 Music Series pays tribute to not one, but two Disney Legends in classic Disney animation, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnson, two of the most prolific artists behind the countless unforgettable moments and beloved characters from the golden era in Disney animation... and beyond. Download (right click / save as)Visit our on-line store for exclusive Jiminy Crickets and DisneyChris Website Merch!!!!https://jcpodcast.threadless.com/If you would like to help support the Jiminy Crickets podcasts and DisneyChris.com - Please consider becoming a Patreon Subscriber and receive exclusive rewards every month. https://www.patreon.com/c/DisneyChris
PART 2 - We have a pretty good handle on how WDW celebrates the holiday season NOW, but how did we get to this point? When did Disney first start celebrating and how did they do it? It's changed quite a bit over the years! Weekly Exclusive Bonus Episodes of our Podcast are available at our Patreon page. Visit our Amazon Storefront to see what our must-haves are for the parks (Affiliate Link) Follow Along! Podcast Account: @ThatParkLifePodcast Beth: @TheRealBethMcDonald and @SimplisticThrills Greg: @Gregintheparks Greg's Other Podcast: The Quick Escape Podcast
We're kicking things off at the IAAPA Expo 2025, the global meeting place for theme-park creators, innovators, and anyone who thinks fun should come with seat belts and safety restraints. With more than 1,100 exhibitors and endless new ride concepts, animatronics, VR demos, and snack samples, the Expo is always an overload of creativity — in the best possible way. We'll break down what caught our eye, the coolest booths we explored, and of course… the food we sampled along the way.From there, we head into Hollywood Studios for dinner at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, one of the most uniquely themed restaurants in all of Walt Disney World. We'll share what we ate, some fun Imagineering trivia (including those famous license plate Easter eggs), and why burgers, onion rings, and milkshakes just taste better when you're sitting in a glowing retro convertible under a fake night sky.Finally, we wrap up at The BOATHOUSE, where we enjoyed classic lobster rolls with perfect waterfront views and a side of Disney Springs energy. We'll talk ambience, fun facts, and why this spot continues to be one of the most reliable dining experiences at Disney.
We're diving head-first into another wildly fun round of Resort Wars, and this time the battle is big, bold, and packed with classic Disney history. We're putting Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and Disney's Contemporary Resort into the ring, and trust us… this showdown is a monorail-line heavyweight match. If you've been following our Resort Wars journey, you know we've taken on some iconic battles — Pop vs. Art of Animation, Riverside vs. French Quarter, Grand Flo vs. Riviera, and more. But there's something special about comparing two Opening Day Resorts that have shaped Walt Disney World since 1971. These places aren't just hotels… they're pieces of Disney history.On Team Polynesian, you've got tropical vibes, tiki torches, beachside sunsets, and DOLE Whip on demand. On Team Contemporary, you've got sleek mid-century magic, the monorail gliding through the Grand Canyon Concourse, the iconic Mary Blair mural, and the best walk to Magic Kingdom on property.We break down theming, rooms, dining, transportation, amenities, and value — and of course, we leave Listener Intel and the final verdict to YOU.So grab your Mickey ears, hop on the monorail, and tune in as we decide which Opening Day legend takes home the crown in this edition of Resort Wars!
We're cracking open another round of our Listener Q&A series, where your questions take center stage and we get to time-travel, daydream, debate, and laugh our way through the wild world of Walt Disney World. From Back to the Future-style time hopping to EPCOT engineering, this one covers a little bit of everything—so buckle up, because the flux capacitor is… well, metaphorically humming.We kick things off with a big one: If you had one day to time travel to any Disney park in history, where and when are you landing? Parade nostalgia, extinct attractions, retro vibes—nothing is off the table.Then, we get delightfully nerdy as we design a brand-new World Showcase Lagoon attraction and pitch a fresh Skyliner route that Imagineering will probably ignore but shouldn't. Over on Twitter, we tackle what kind of perk could actually convince us to buy direct DVC—and yes, we get honest. Instagram brought the planning heat: Pop Century vs. French Quarter for a June family trip, Skyliner convenience vs. resort charm, and how to tackle Fourth of July fireworks across a three-night celebration.Plus, we wrap up with a festive bite of holiday goodness as we spotlight Columbia Harbour House's Gingerbread Cake—because every Q&A needs a little sugar. Tune in, laugh along, and keep those questions coming!