This is the weekly news, rumors and refurbishments update for Walt Disney World for the week of November 9, 2014.
Here are the four biggest updates from around the resort for the past seven days…
1. Holidays at Epcot begin on November 28 with a few new treats
Epcot always starts the holiday season with a bang. Illuminations Reflections of Earth gets extended with a very special Peace on Earth finale. The Peace on Earth finale is the most moving and dare I say magical four minutes of pyrotechnics at Walt Disney World. From the choir, to the Walter Cronkite narration, to the spectacular ending, it’s definitely a must do.
Although this year the finale might be undergoing a few changes. Specifically, a modified Peace on Earth soundtrack. I’m skeptical of any changes to my beloved fireworks display, but I’ll save final judgement until after the 28th.
Also getting a few changes are the Holidays Around the World festivities. There will be a special holiday tasting, where you can try seasonal treats from around the world. Mexico will be getting the “Fiesta de Navidad”, which will feature dancers and mariachis celebrating the holiday customs of Mexico. In Morocco, a storyteller will speak of the festivals, holiday traditions, and celebrations across Morocco. In China, guests can enjoy the Chinese Lion Dance.
2. The Christmas Day Parade is changing names this year and filming dates are set
The annual ABC Christmas Day Parade will be the Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration this year. I know, it seems like Frozen is being added to something else every week, but to the millions watching on Christmas Day this is probably a welcome change.
More importantly, the parade will be filming at the Magic Kingdom on December 8 and December 9, 2014, the Disneyland segments are already filmed. If you are visiting the Magic Kingdom on those days, you may be able to take part in the celebration.
Main Street and the Central Plaza will be a nightmare and Cast Members will be directing traffic through backstage areas and blocking many entrances. I highly recommend that you avoid visiting the Magic Kingdom on those two days.
3. Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa will be welcoming Disney Princesses
While Cinderella’s Royal Table is undergoing refurbishment from January to March of next year, Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa will be its replacement. Starting January 8, 2015, the Disney Princesses will be greeting guests for breakfast and brunch. Reservations for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members are available starting December 3. Reservations are available to everyone else starting December 4. The character meal will be available from 8am – 2:20pm and cost $49.99 per adult and $31.99 per child (ages 3 – 9).
Here’s the menu:
Adult Menu
APPETIZERS OF THE COURT
Bakery Basket
Choice of One:
Garden Salad–Artisanal Greens, Endive, Roasted Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas, and
Marcona Almonds with Riesling Vinaigrette
Assorted Fresh Fruits
ENTRÉES ROYALE
Choice of One:
Traditional Breakfast–Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Bacon, and Twice-cooked Breakfast Potatoes
Scrambled Egg Whites, Hot Ten-Grain Cereal, Greek Yogurt topped with Granola,
Whole-Grain Bread, and Fresh Fruit
Steak and Slow-Poached Eggs with Twice-cooked Breakfast Potatoes and Wilted Spinach
Grilled Ham and Biscuit, Slow Poached Eggs topped with Sausage Gravy
Market-inspired Fish with Angel Hair Pasta, and Aromatic Tomato Sauce
Florida Shrimp with Creamy Cheddar Cheese and Smoked Bacon Grits
DESSERT TRIO
Beverages included:
Unlimited Coffee (regular/decaf), Iced Tea (regular/decaf),
Fountain Beverages, and Juices (Apple/Orange/Tomato)
One Specialty Beverage
Children’s Menu
APPETIZERS
Choice of One
Bite-size Cheddar Cheese and Grapes
Garden Salad
Fat-free Ranch Dressing
ENTRÉES
Choice of One
Turkey Pot Pie
Turkey Pot Pie topped with a Cheese Biscuit
Roasted Chicken Leg
Roasted Chicken Leg with Brown Rice Pilaf and Broccolini
Children’s Scrambled Eggs
Mickey-shaped Waffles
Steak
served with Mashed Potatoes and Sweet Corn
DESSERT TRIO
Beverages included:
Milk and Skim Milk
Fountain Beverages
Juices: Orange/Apple/Tomato
One Specialty Beverage
Specialty Beverage Selections
Adult Specialty Beverage Selection
Choice of One
Mimosa
Champagne
Seasoned & Spiced Tomato Juice with Vodka
Cappuccino
Latte
Espresso
Glass of Wine
Children’s Specialty Beverage Selection
Choice of One served in a Specialty Cup
Tink Drink
Lemonade, Orange Juice and Sprite
Strawberry Smoothie
(Menu subject to change without notice)
4. Minor pool refurbishments for Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will be undergoing some minor pool refurbishments during the next two weeks.
The Big Blue Pool will be closed from November 17 – 19, 2014
The Flippin’ Fins Pool will be closed from November 20 – 21, 2014
The Cozy Cone Pool will be closed from November 24 – 26, 2014
