Ringing in the New Year at Disney!

I can't wait to ring in 2011 at Disney tonight! Some people may think I'm crazy for going to Disney on New Year's, but with some a bit of planning it's really not that bad. We actually decided to make this trip up to Orlando just 3 days ago...and yes, we were able to find dinner reservations for tonight as well! Below are some tips to ring in the New Year at Disney, whether planning it 3 days before (like me) or even a couple of weeks (During the holidays Disney is booked months, and even a year in advance at times).

For dining, the trick is to have an early dinner (around 5pm) or you can also opt for the very late dinner (10 pm). We were able to find several restaurants at the Parks that still had availability.

Another tip is to know what Park you plan on going to ahead of time. If you know for sure that you would like to ring in the New Year with a toast of champagne, then the Magic Kingdom is not for you. Regardless of what day of the year it is, they do not sell alcohol (not even on New Year's). I've heard many people complain about this, but rules are rules. If it's just adults, I suggest either EPCOT or Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Many of the Parks tend to get filled to capacity, so plan to arrive at the park you plan on saying "Happy New Year" at around 6pm at the latest. The Parks do hand out hats and blowers (for FREE). When you pick up your Park guide for the day, make sure to check out the distribution areas (there will be lines, so be prepared). Times of distribution may vary, but they usually do it around 7:30pm.

Hope everyone has a Happy New Year! I'll be back in 2011 with more tips and pictures!

Christmas Time at Disney

Two of my favorite things in the world are Christmas and Disney, put the two together and what you have is the ultimate Christmas experience! It doesn't get any better than Christmas time in Disney because they make sure to put you in the holiday spirit from the second you visit the website to book your trip!

Not only are the parks decorated in the best way possible for Christmas, but the Disney parks have something special for the Holiday season. I recently went to Disney and really got into the holiday spirit with all that they have going on at the parks.

At EPCOT, you can experience the holidays around the world and see how people from all over celebrate the holiday season differently through their own cultural traditions. EPCOT also has the Candlelight Processional, which I've yet to experience, but plan to do so next year!

Disney's Hollywood Studios is home to The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. No words can describe how amazing this is.
At the Magic Kingdom, Main Street is decked in wreaths and garland with ornaments and a giant Christmas tree. Directly across from the Christmas tree  you'll find Cinderella's Castle which is strung in lights from top to bottom giving it the effect of an icy wonderland! My favorite special event of the holiday season takes place in Magic Kingdom with Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. This has become an annual tradition for us as we go every year to this event.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party takes place on select nights from November through December (typically Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays). Since it is a special event it requires a separate ticket, and the closer it gets to the holidays the more quickly it sells out. If you plan on going on the last day of the event (usually the last Sunday before Christmas), make sure to buy your tickets 2-3 months in advance. I really enjoy this event because it's everything Christmas, Disney style! And of course who can say no to unlimited hot cocoa and sugar cookies (they also have a healthier alternative with apple slices and apple juice).

Most of Disney's holiday events begin in early November and run through the New Year, but to be sure it's always best to check the official Disney World website to confirm dates and times.

Have you been to the Disney Parks during the Holidays? What is your favorite thing to do?

Pictures of my Disney trip will be up soon!

Welcome to Adventures of a Disney Princess

As an avid Disney fan and annual passholder, I thought it would only be appropriate to create a blog where I can share my experiences with other Disney fans and give tips to those making plans to visit the parks!


So welcome to, Adventures of a Disney Princess. This is an unofficial blog about all things Disney! Follow me as I share with you the best places to stay, things to do, special events, and news about the Parks.