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For DVC members who didn't get this DVC e-mail.
Inside Scoop
Glad tidings we bring
In the Winter 2003 issue of Vacation Magic, we're celebrating the dazzling debut of Wishes, the new nighttime fireworks spectacular at the Magic Kingdom® Park. You'll hear from the folks who helped develop this new 'story in the sky' and learn a bit about how its breathtaking displays were designed. We'll also introduce you to three new attractions coming soon to the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot®, and Disney-MGM Studios.
And because there's no place like home for the holidays, discover the decorative themes and seasonal delights at the Disney Vacation Club Resorts. We'll also take you behind the scenes with Holiday Services, a team of dedicated Cast Members who transform the Walt Disney World Resort into a spectacular winter wonderland every year.
Look for our merry Magic in your mailbox later this month!
Developer News
A look behind the 'Springs'
What else is there to say about Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa? After all, over the course of the last several editions of Member Clubhouse, we've introduced you to High Rock Spring, the feature pool area; the lobby and public areas; The Artist's Palette, the unique food, beverage, and retail concept; and the new Disney Vacation Club Sales Center scheduled to open in conjunction with the Resort. But there's still another tale to tell about the newest Disney Vacation Club Resort, and it's one that's seldom shared.
Malvina Craig is an Owner's Representative with Walt Disney World Resort Operations Development. In her role, Malvina represents each entity that needs a say in the development of Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, from Hotel Operations and Transportation to Security, Corporate IT, and more.
"Most people don't really know that Operations Development exists, and assume that Walt Disney Imagineering handles everything," Malvina explains. "They might be surprised to learn how much care and attention really goes into everything. We spend a lot of time thinking about what our Guests need and deciding how Operations can best meet those needs." Checking into a resort? Malvina's team has determined how many Front Desk stations are necessary: "We'll tell them for a hotel this size, this type, this level, this is what you need."
A Cast Member for over 28 years, Malvina has worked for most, if not all, of the Operations teams she now represents during meetings: Merchandise, Food and Beverage, Front Desk, Housekeeping, Transportation, and Recreation. She considers herself a generalist, well-suited to her current role, since "it's really helpful if I know as much as possible about a lot of different areas."
"We trust our developer, Walt Disney Imagineering, to make things look pretty, but we want to make sure they work," she continues. Looking at building designs, for example, linens may be on Malvina's mind. "I've got to get linens to that building," she says. "So where's the linen room? How do I get the truck into the area to deliver linens? If there's another vehicle parked there, the truck has to be able to get around that parked vehicle. So that can affect the width of paths. If we're going to use a heavy vehicle, it might affect the type of concrete used...those are the kinds of issues we get into."
"We also specify, purchase, and install all of the operating equipment and supplies for the project," Malvina adds. "That includes linens, vacuum cleaners, pots and pans, office furniture, everything." During a resort's opening, her team assists the Operations Team there, providing support for several years. "When we design a resort, we make some decisions about what we think Guests are going to do, but it's sort of the old story about the college that doesn't put sidewalks in until after they open, seeing where the footpaths are and placing sidewalks there," Malvina tells Member Clubhouse. "We have to watch and see how our Guests actually use the property. Then we may make post-opening enhancements."
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is Malvina's first Disney Vacation Club project. "It's been a wonderful experience. I've certainly learned a lot about what makes Members different from our regular, day-to-day Walt Disney World Guests...their sense of ownership and belonging, and 'coming Home,'" she says. "They really do feel like this is their home. I feel like I'm helping build a home more than a hotel."
What does she like most at the new Resort? "I think the feature pool [High Rock Spring Pool] is awesome, absolutely awesome," Malvina responds. "The rockwork and the ambience with the water, the springs, and the slide...I think it's going to just blow our Guests away. They're going to love it!"
Around the Neighborhood
Talking turkey
Traveling home for Thanksgiving? Get ready to gobble up goodies, games, and good times around the neighborhood.
At Disney's Old Key West Resort, choose from a cornucopia of craft activities. Create something for a special someone and they'll be thanking you the other 364 days of the year. Check the schedule at Conch Flats Community Hall or see the Hank's Happenins flyer.
If you're headed to Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort, try your hand at a heaping helping of holiday crafts and sit down to seasonal storytelling in our pumpkin patch. On Thanksgiving Day, celebrate with a classic turkey fry with all the trimmings, plus entertainment from the legendary B'Lou Crabbe. And when the tide goes out, it's time for the 8th Annual "Turkey Bowl" on the beach! Be an early birdget a leg up on the competition for this touch-football tradition by signing up at the recreation window.
After the game, stay for a southern snowball fight and gather around for the biggest campfire of the year. Please refer to the Activity Calendar upon check-in for program dates and times. Reservations may be made beginning November 21 for paid programs; reservations for free programs may only be made 24 hours in advance.
Disney's Vero Beach Resort is setting the table for a traditional Thanksgiving buffet. Go aheadstuff yourself silly at this bountiful bevy. Priority Seating is available. Call (772) 234-2180 for more information.
Schedules and programs are subject to change.
Remember December
The 2003 Condominium Association Meetings will be held in December. For the Disney Vacation Club resorts located at the Walt Disney World® Resort, the meetings will take place at the BoardWalk Conference Center on the dates and times listed below. The meeting at Disney's Vero Beach Resort is scheduled for the Sea Grape conference room, and in Community Hall at Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort.
Member Getaways
Each month in Member Clubhouse, we feature Last-Minute Getaways, some of the most popular Interval International® exchange destinations with limited availability for the following month. Please note that holiday weeks are typically not available.
There are currently accommodations available in December at some of the finest resorts in the Interval International network, including California, Utah, Nevada, Canada, and Spain.
Remember that availability is extremely limited and accommodations may not be available during Christmas week. Contact Member Services for additional information, and visit the World Passport Collection page at dvcmember.com for a complete list of destinations currently available.
Member Perks
All aboard!
The Carolwood Pacific Historical Society encourages The Walt Disney Company to maintain Walt Disney's railroad legacy by increasing awareness and supporting the value of the finest functioning steam railroad operations in the world. The Society takes its name from the one-eighth scale train that Walt built and ran in the backyard of his Holmby Hills estate in Los Angeles, California.
In celebration of the recent completion of the steam engine restoration project at the Walt Disney World® Resort, between December 1, 2003 and February 28, 2004, the Society is offering a one-year membership to Disney Vacation Club Members for $5. Regularly $30, the membership includes a personalized certificate and membership card, a beautiful Carolwood Pacific Historical Society lapel pin, and a subscription to the official quarterly newsletter, the Carolwood Chronicle.
To take advantage of this offer, download a printable form (beginning December 1) by visiting Member News at dvcmember.com. Mail your completed form by February 28, 2004 to: Carolwood Society, 1032 Amberton Lane, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320-3514. For more information about the Carolwood Society, visit carolwood.com.
'Hoop' it up
Enjoy a 20% discount at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue for the 9:30 pm show only. Round up your family and head to Pioneer Hall at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground for hilarious vaudeville-style entertainment and all-you-care-to-eat vittles. Details are available on the Special Member Offers page at dvcmember.com.
Shop 'til you dropyour discount!
When you're out and about making holiday purchases, remember to take advantage of a 10% Member discount at The Disney Store chain of retail shops. Just present your blue Member Card at the time of purchase and make someone's season even more special. Only the person named on the Member Card is eligible for the discount. This discount is not valid on purchases made through The Disney Store catalog or The Disney Store online, and cannot be combined with any other special offers. This offer does not apply at any Walt Disney World Theme Park shops, Resort Hotel shops, or any other retail establishment operated by The Walt Disney Company or its affiliated companies. The offer is not applicable to Disney ticket media, gift certificates, Disney Dollars, and other selected merchandise.
Holiday pool hopping restrictions
Due to the high occupancy that is expected, Members may not "pool hop" from November 24-30, 2003, and December 20, 2003 January 3, 2004. On other dates, if you're pool hopping at another resort, you may be asked to leave in order to accommodate registered Guests staying at that resort. Please call ahead to the Front Desk of the destination resort to check pool availability, and visit dvcmember.com for updates.
Please also remember that unless you're a registered Guest of Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts or Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, pool hopping is never allowed at Stormalong Bay and Uzima Pool. Quiet pools at those resorts are also off-limits, unless you are a registered Resort Guest. There are no exceptions to this policy.
Banking Reminder
Banking Vacation Points is something most Members wish to do from time to time. To make banking your Vacation Points easier, the following chart is provided here each month as a reminder. Please note that Member Services is closed on Saturdays and Sundays, so plan your transactions accordingly, or make your banking request to Member Services via email.
What in the World
Warm fuzzies
Disney's new animated film Brother Bear follows the incredible adventures of a young man named Kenai who is magically transformed into a bear. Setting out to regain his human form, Kenai is joined by Koda, a friendly bear cub. This heartwarming tale of brotherhood, bears, and breathtaking outdoor adventure is driven by six great new songs from Academy Award® winner Phil Collins, including "Great Spirits," sung by the legendary Tina Turner.
On your next Walt Disney World® vacation, spend some time with Koda and Kenai. The playful pair will make appearances inside the Canada pavilion at Epcot® and over in Camp Minnie-Mickey at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Meet the rest of the colorful cast closer to homeBrother Bear is now showing only in theatres.
New 3-D attraction delivers a WOW!
Disney magic meets Disney music in an amazing new Magic Kingdom® attraction designed for the whole family. Mickey's PhilharMagic takes you on a magical ride with Mickey, Donald, and many of your other favorite Disney Characters in Fantasyland Concert Hall. And you'll see them in a whole new waythis eye-popping musical experience unfolds on the largest screen ever created for 3-D. "You become magically immersed into these classic Disney animated worlds and go into scenes with the characters," says Kevin Rafferty, Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Writer/Director. "Helping to create this show is probably the most fun I've ever had as an Imagineer...it's a concert for the ears and the eyes."
Holiday magic with Mickey
Join Santa Goofy and all your Disney pals for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom Park. On selected evenings from November 30 to December 19, enjoy a magical night of holiday snow on Main Street, U.S.A.®, an enchanting parade, Disney Character greetings, special entertainment, family photos, and tasty treats. The festivities take place from 7:00 pm to midnight and include a special holiday twist to Wishes, our all-new nighttime fireworks spectacular (viewable throughout the Magic Kingdom), plus unlimited use of the most popular attractions. Separate admission is required for this event, and tickets sell out quickly, so book now or call (407) W-DISNEY (934-7639).
A holiday tradition returns
From November 28 to December 30, Epcot welcomes you to Holidays Around the World. This yuletide extravaganza of sight, sound, and inspiration features a nightly retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, a glorious Candlelight Processional, and a choir of hundreds accompanied by a full symphony orchestra. World Showcase nations host international gift-giving characters and celebrate their unique holiday traditions.
The Candlelight Processional is offered nightly at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 pm. Narrators scheduled to perform include Andy Garcia, Ben Vereen, Rita Moreno, Steven Curtis Chapman, Edward James Olmos, Sandi Patty, Robby Benson, and Gary Sinise. Please note that narrators are subject to change without notice.
Priority Seating is now being accepted for the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package, which includes dinner at an Epcot restaurant plus preferred seating for the Candlelight Processional. Prices are $10.99 for children ages 3 to 11 and range from $28.99 to $41.99 for adults, depending on the restaurant selected. Epcot admission is required. For information, call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463), or visit the Special Events page at disneyworld.com.
Sidewalks dressed in holiday style
Visit Downtown Disney® for Festival of the Seasons, November 28 to December 24, and fill your holiday wish lists with treasures from some of the most delightful stores in the world. When making merry leaves you wishing for a tasty treat, satisfy your holiday hunger with a seasonal snack or a festive feast. Or just enjoy the holiday entertainment, dazzling lights, and wonderful window displays. And watch for Santa, because he'll be there, too!
Enjoy a night of La Nouba at a great price!
With mesmerizing music, outrageous costumes, and unbelievable acts of daring and physical artistry, it's no wonder La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil® captivates Guests of all ages. For performances prior to December 6, tickets are now available for just $59 plus tax for Guests ages 10 and up and $39 plus tax for Guests ages 3 to 9. Call (407) 939-7600 to purchase tickets today. (Category 3 seats only. Subject to availability.)
Refurbishment schedule
From time to time, attractions at Walt Disney World Theme Parks undergo refurbishment. Here's the current schedule of refurbishment closures (subject to change without notice):
Magic Kingdom Park
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - Scheduled to reopen November 23
The ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter® - currently closed for development of Stitch's Great Escape!, a new experience expected to open in fall 2004
Disney-MGM Studios
The Magic of Disney Animation - Scheduled to reopen November 24
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park - Closed through December 13
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park - Closed December 14 - February 28, 2004
The Haunted Mansion, an all-new, fun-filled, fright-packed comedy adventure starring Eddie Murphy, arrives in theaters on November 26. A book honoring the attraction, "The Haunted Mansion: From the Magic Kingdom to the Movies" by Walt Disney Imagineer Jason Surrell, was recently published. And now just for Members, in tribute to the attraction's adaptation to the silver screen, Disney historian Jim Korkis offers up some Haunted history for those who gravitate toward ghastly ghouls and grinning ghosts.
Inside Scoop
Glad tidings we bring
In the Winter 2003 issue of Vacation Magic, we're celebrating the dazzling debut of Wishes, the new nighttime fireworks spectacular at the Magic Kingdom® Park. You'll hear from the folks who helped develop this new 'story in the sky' and learn a bit about how its breathtaking displays were designed. We'll also introduce you to three new attractions coming soon to the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot®, and Disney-MGM Studios.
And because there's no place like home for the holidays, discover the decorative themes and seasonal delights at the Disney Vacation Club Resorts. We'll also take you behind the scenes with Holiday Services, a team of dedicated Cast Members who transform the Walt Disney World Resort into a spectacular winter wonderland every year.
Look for our merry Magic in your mailbox later this month!
Developer News
A look behind the 'Springs'
What else is there to say about Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa? After all, over the course of the last several editions of Member Clubhouse, we've introduced you to High Rock Spring, the feature pool area; the lobby and public areas; The Artist's Palette, the unique food, beverage, and retail concept; and the new Disney Vacation Club Sales Center scheduled to open in conjunction with the Resort. But there's still another tale to tell about the newest Disney Vacation Club Resort, and it's one that's seldom shared.
Malvina Craig is an Owner's Representative with Walt Disney World Resort Operations Development. In her role, Malvina represents each entity that needs a say in the development of Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, from Hotel Operations and Transportation to Security, Corporate IT, and more.
"Most people don't really know that Operations Development exists, and assume that Walt Disney Imagineering handles everything," Malvina explains. "They might be surprised to learn how much care and attention really goes into everything. We spend a lot of time thinking about what our Guests need and deciding how Operations can best meet those needs." Checking into a resort? Malvina's team has determined how many Front Desk stations are necessary: "We'll tell them for a hotel this size, this type, this level, this is what you need."
A Cast Member for over 28 years, Malvina has worked for most, if not all, of the Operations teams she now represents during meetings: Merchandise, Food and Beverage, Front Desk, Housekeeping, Transportation, and Recreation. She considers herself a generalist, well-suited to her current role, since "it's really helpful if I know as much as possible about a lot of different areas."
"We trust our developer, Walt Disney Imagineering, to make things look pretty, but we want to make sure they work," she continues. Looking at building designs, for example, linens may be on Malvina's mind. "I've got to get linens to that building," she says. "So where's the linen room? How do I get the truck into the area to deliver linens? If there's another vehicle parked there, the truck has to be able to get around that parked vehicle. So that can affect the width of paths. If we're going to use a heavy vehicle, it might affect the type of concrete used...those are the kinds of issues we get into."
"We also specify, purchase, and install all of the operating equipment and supplies for the project," Malvina adds. "That includes linens, vacuum cleaners, pots and pans, office furniture, everything." During a resort's opening, her team assists the Operations Team there, providing support for several years. "When we design a resort, we make some decisions about what we think Guests are going to do, but it's sort of the old story about the college that doesn't put sidewalks in until after they open, seeing where the footpaths are and placing sidewalks there," Malvina tells Member Clubhouse. "We have to watch and see how our Guests actually use the property. Then we may make post-opening enhancements."
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is Malvina's first Disney Vacation Club project. "It's been a wonderful experience. I've certainly learned a lot about what makes Members different from our regular, day-to-day Walt Disney World Guests...their sense of ownership and belonging, and 'coming Home,'" she says. "They really do feel like this is their home. I feel like I'm helping build a home more than a hotel."
What does she like most at the new Resort? "I think the feature pool [High Rock Spring Pool] is awesome, absolutely awesome," Malvina responds. "The rockwork and the ambience with the water, the springs, and the slide...I think it's going to just blow our Guests away. They're going to love it!"
Around the Neighborhood
Talking turkey
Traveling home for Thanksgiving? Get ready to gobble up goodies, games, and good times around the neighborhood.
At Disney's Old Key West Resort, choose from a cornucopia of craft activities. Create something for a special someone and they'll be thanking you the other 364 days of the year. Check the schedule at Conch Flats Community Hall or see the Hank's Happenins flyer.
If you're headed to Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort, try your hand at a heaping helping of holiday crafts and sit down to seasonal storytelling in our pumpkin patch. On Thanksgiving Day, celebrate with a classic turkey fry with all the trimmings, plus entertainment from the legendary B'Lou Crabbe. And when the tide goes out, it's time for the 8th Annual "Turkey Bowl" on the beach! Be an early birdget a leg up on the competition for this touch-football tradition by signing up at the recreation window.
After the game, stay for a southern snowball fight and gather around for the biggest campfire of the year. Please refer to the Activity Calendar upon check-in for program dates and times. Reservations may be made beginning November 21 for paid programs; reservations for free programs may only be made 24 hours in advance.
Disney's Vero Beach Resort is setting the table for a traditional Thanksgiving buffet. Go aheadstuff yourself silly at this bountiful bevy. Priority Seating is available. Call (772) 234-2180 for more information.
Schedules and programs are subject to change.
Remember December
The 2003 Condominium Association Meetings will be held in December. For the Disney Vacation Club resorts located at the Walt Disney World® Resort, the meetings will take place at the BoardWalk Conference Center on the dates and times listed below. The meeting at Disney's Vero Beach Resort is scheduled for the Sea Grape conference room, and in Community Hall at Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort.
Member Getaways
Each month in Member Clubhouse, we feature Last-Minute Getaways, some of the most popular Interval International® exchange destinations with limited availability for the following month. Please note that holiday weeks are typically not available.
There are currently accommodations available in December at some of the finest resorts in the Interval International network, including California, Utah, Nevada, Canada, and Spain.
Remember that availability is extremely limited and accommodations may not be available during Christmas week. Contact Member Services for additional information, and visit the World Passport Collection page at dvcmember.com for a complete list of destinations currently available.
Member Perks
All aboard!
The Carolwood Pacific Historical Society encourages The Walt Disney Company to maintain Walt Disney's railroad legacy by increasing awareness and supporting the value of the finest functioning steam railroad operations in the world. The Society takes its name from the one-eighth scale train that Walt built and ran in the backyard of his Holmby Hills estate in Los Angeles, California.
In celebration of the recent completion of the steam engine restoration project at the Walt Disney World® Resort, between December 1, 2003 and February 28, 2004, the Society is offering a one-year membership to Disney Vacation Club Members for $5. Regularly $30, the membership includes a personalized certificate and membership card, a beautiful Carolwood Pacific Historical Society lapel pin, and a subscription to the official quarterly newsletter, the Carolwood Chronicle.
To take advantage of this offer, download a printable form (beginning December 1) by visiting Member News at dvcmember.com. Mail your completed form by February 28, 2004 to: Carolwood Society, 1032 Amberton Lane, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320-3514. For more information about the Carolwood Society, visit carolwood.com.
'Hoop' it up
Enjoy a 20% discount at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue for the 9:30 pm show only. Round up your family and head to Pioneer Hall at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground for hilarious vaudeville-style entertainment and all-you-care-to-eat vittles. Details are available on the Special Member Offers page at dvcmember.com.
Shop 'til you dropyour discount!
When you're out and about making holiday purchases, remember to take advantage of a 10% Member discount at The Disney Store chain of retail shops. Just present your blue Member Card at the time of purchase and make someone's season even more special. Only the person named on the Member Card is eligible for the discount. This discount is not valid on purchases made through The Disney Store catalog or The Disney Store online, and cannot be combined with any other special offers. This offer does not apply at any Walt Disney World Theme Park shops, Resort Hotel shops, or any other retail establishment operated by The Walt Disney Company or its affiliated companies. The offer is not applicable to Disney ticket media, gift certificates, Disney Dollars, and other selected merchandise.
Holiday pool hopping restrictions
Due to the high occupancy that is expected, Members may not "pool hop" from November 24-30, 2003, and December 20, 2003 January 3, 2004. On other dates, if you're pool hopping at another resort, you may be asked to leave in order to accommodate registered Guests staying at that resort. Please call ahead to the Front Desk of the destination resort to check pool availability, and visit dvcmember.com for updates.
Please also remember that unless you're a registered Guest of Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts or Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, pool hopping is never allowed at Stormalong Bay and Uzima Pool. Quiet pools at those resorts are also off-limits, unless you are a registered Resort Guest. There are no exceptions to this policy.
Banking Reminder
Banking Vacation Points is something most Members wish to do from time to time. To make banking your Vacation Points easier, the following chart is provided here each month as a reminder. Please note that Member Services is closed on Saturdays and Sundays, so plan your transactions accordingly, or make your banking request to Member Services via email.
What in the World
Warm fuzzies
Disney's new animated film Brother Bear follows the incredible adventures of a young man named Kenai who is magically transformed into a bear. Setting out to regain his human form, Kenai is joined by Koda, a friendly bear cub. This heartwarming tale of brotherhood, bears, and breathtaking outdoor adventure is driven by six great new songs from Academy Award® winner Phil Collins, including "Great Spirits," sung by the legendary Tina Turner.
On your next Walt Disney World® vacation, spend some time with Koda and Kenai. The playful pair will make appearances inside the Canada pavilion at Epcot® and over in Camp Minnie-Mickey at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Meet the rest of the colorful cast closer to homeBrother Bear is now showing only in theatres.
New 3-D attraction delivers a WOW!
Disney magic meets Disney music in an amazing new Magic Kingdom® attraction designed for the whole family. Mickey's PhilharMagic takes you on a magical ride with Mickey, Donald, and many of your other favorite Disney Characters in Fantasyland Concert Hall. And you'll see them in a whole new waythis eye-popping musical experience unfolds on the largest screen ever created for 3-D. "You become magically immersed into these classic Disney animated worlds and go into scenes with the characters," says Kevin Rafferty, Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Writer/Director. "Helping to create this show is probably the most fun I've ever had as an Imagineer...it's a concert for the ears and the eyes."
Holiday magic with Mickey
Join Santa Goofy and all your Disney pals for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom Park. On selected evenings from November 30 to December 19, enjoy a magical night of holiday snow on Main Street, U.S.A.®, an enchanting parade, Disney Character greetings, special entertainment, family photos, and tasty treats. The festivities take place from 7:00 pm to midnight and include a special holiday twist to Wishes, our all-new nighttime fireworks spectacular (viewable throughout the Magic Kingdom), plus unlimited use of the most popular attractions. Separate admission is required for this event, and tickets sell out quickly, so book now or call (407) W-DISNEY (934-7639).
A holiday tradition returns
From November 28 to December 30, Epcot welcomes you to Holidays Around the World. This yuletide extravaganza of sight, sound, and inspiration features a nightly retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, a glorious Candlelight Processional, and a choir of hundreds accompanied by a full symphony orchestra. World Showcase nations host international gift-giving characters and celebrate their unique holiday traditions.
The Candlelight Processional is offered nightly at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 pm. Narrators scheduled to perform include Andy Garcia, Ben Vereen, Rita Moreno, Steven Curtis Chapman, Edward James Olmos, Sandi Patty, Robby Benson, and Gary Sinise. Please note that narrators are subject to change without notice.
Priority Seating is now being accepted for the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package, which includes dinner at an Epcot restaurant plus preferred seating for the Candlelight Processional. Prices are $10.99 for children ages 3 to 11 and range from $28.99 to $41.99 for adults, depending on the restaurant selected. Epcot admission is required. For information, call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463), or visit the Special Events page at disneyworld.com.
Sidewalks dressed in holiday style
Visit Downtown Disney® for Festival of the Seasons, November 28 to December 24, and fill your holiday wish lists with treasures from some of the most delightful stores in the world. When making merry leaves you wishing for a tasty treat, satisfy your holiday hunger with a seasonal snack or a festive feast. Or just enjoy the holiday entertainment, dazzling lights, and wonderful window displays. And watch for Santa, because he'll be there, too!
Enjoy a night of La Nouba at a great price!
With mesmerizing music, outrageous costumes, and unbelievable acts of daring and physical artistry, it's no wonder La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil® captivates Guests of all ages. For performances prior to December 6, tickets are now available for just $59 plus tax for Guests ages 10 and up and $39 plus tax for Guests ages 3 to 9. Call (407) 939-7600 to purchase tickets today. (Category 3 seats only. Subject to availability.)
Refurbishment schedule
From time to time, attractions at Walt Disney World Theme Parks undergo refurbishment. Here's the current schedule of refurbishment closures (subject to change without notice):
Magic Kingdom Park
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - Scheduled to reopen November 23
The ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter® - currently closed for development of Stitch's Great Escape!, a new experience expected to open in fall 2004
Disney-MGM Studios
The Magic of Disney Animation - Scheduled to reopen November 24
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park - Closed through December 13
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park - Closed December 14 - February 28, 2004
The Haunted Mansion, an all-new, fun-filled, fright-packed comedy adventure starring Eddie Murphy, arrives in theaters on November 26. A book honoring the attraction, "The Haunted Mansion: From the Magic Kingdom to the Movies" by Walt Disney Imagineer Jason Surrell, was recently published. And now just for Members, in tribute to the attraction's adaptation to the silver screen, Disney historian Jim Korkis offers up some Haunted history for those who gravitate toward ghastly ghouls and grinning ghosts.
