Summer is coming to a close; sad but true. Back to school commercials are on TV, The sun is setting a little earlier each day, and Disney is ramping up for the most exciting season of all; Autumn! Sure, Christmas is great with all the lights and snow on Main Street, but nothing beats fall in my book.
Fall not only brings slightly cooler air and thinner crowds but two wonderful events start to take place: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival. I am going to give you some tips and tricks for getting the most out of these events!
Epcot Food and Wine Festival
September 19-November 10, 2014
The Food and Wine Festival occurs daily and is FREE with admission to Epcot
Most of the festivities take place around World Showcase, but do not miss out on visiting the festival center in Future World. During this daily event, you will be able to stroll along the lagoon and enjoy tapas size eats from around the globe. Savory dishes, sweet desserts, and creative drinks will be on the menu throughout the showcase. It is a fun way to jet around the world without leaving central Florida. Here are a few tips!
1. You can use your dining plan snack credits on many items throughout the festival. This is a good option!
2. You may also purchase a gift card wristband which comes in quite handy if you are an offer property guest without a magic band for room charges. This way you are not digging through your pockets for money or credit cards.
3. Take a look at the schedule ahead of time! There are lots of star chefs and wonderful demos that you may not want to miss.
4. I do not think you need dining reservations for the day you are planning to Food and Wine. There is so much great food and budget prices and often an evening ADR is a waste of money and dining credits when you have spent the day munching around the world!
5. Check out the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. There are lots of fun bands to listen to and it is a wonderful time!
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
Select nights in September and October.
Get your costume on and get ready for what is hands down the best way in the world to celebrate the season. This is a hard ticketed event meaning that you need to purchase and event ticket to attend. Costumes are allowed but not required. The party is from 7pm-midnight on the days it is available, however you can enter the park at 4pm with your party ticket.
Party nights include lots of special entertainment such as Mickey’s Not So Scary Boo to You parade, Happy Hallowishes Fire Works, Special Meet and Greets, Trick or Treating, Dance parties, and of course all the attractions are open with minimal waits!
Here are a few tips for the Halloween Party
1. Get a times guide upon entering to see all there is to offer!
2. Dress in light costumes. I have seen people in big heavy costumes and they must be so uncomfortable. Remember, there is still a lot of walking!
3. If you can, see the later parade as it will be less crowded than the first showing.
4. The fireworks show is the best of the whole year. Make an effort to see it!
5. My favorite place to trick or treat is the trail that runs from Fanstasyland Station to Tomorrowland! Lots of candy stops!
Have a happy fall!