Category: Disney Guides

How To Choose The BEST Masks for Summer in Disney World!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 5, 2020

There’s no denying that Disney World is very hot and humid in the summertime. And with the new requirement of face masks for all Guests and Cast Members as a part of the reopening of Disney Springs, as well as masks required when Disney World reopens its theme parks beginning July 11th, it is totally normal to have some questions about how to stay comfortable in a face mask this summer. It’s a new experience for many of us!

Disney Springs Safety Ambassadors © Disney

While we navigate these new realities for the time being, we’re bringing you some tips for finding the most comfortable masks around. We gathered some helpful information to keep in mind when purchasing masks to use this summer!

What Kind of Materials and Masks to Look For

There are a few key factors to look for when shopping for masks. When it comes to meeting Disney’s requirements, the official statement noted “the use of appropriate face coverings by both Cast Members and Guests.” ‘Face coverings’ may sound a little vague but as a rule of thumb, you want to make sure the mask covers both your nose and your mouth.

What we’ve found is that breathable fabric is the key! You are going to want to look for 100% cotton when purchasing a standard face mask.

©LittleShopOfGeeks on Etsy

And don’t forget about the material of the strap! The wrong kind of strap in the heat can make it SUPER uncomfortable around your ears, especially if worn for prolonged periods of time. If you’re concerned about this, there are masks that come with straps that go around your head that you can adjust with either elastic or ties.

Making Sure It Fits Properly

A mask that is too tight can make breathing more difficult than it needs to be. You want to make sure it fits snug enough that it won’t fall off, but you don’t want to wear a mask that is too small that it constricts your breathing or too large to not be effective. Keep this in mind for children too — their heads are a bit smaller and they may be more comfortable with a child-sized mask.

Mask Sizing Chart on shopDisney

Test your mask out prior to wearing it on vacation to make sure it’s going to be comfortable to wear all day. We recommend washing them a few times to see if they shrink or warp. The last thing you want to discover is you packed a ton of masks that don’t fit properly anymore due to laundering!

Take Extra Precautions So You’re Comfortable All Day

Before you leave home on vacation, you may want to spend some time getting used to wearing a face mask for prolonged periods of time.

Quick trips to the grocery store won’t compare to spending all day in a theme park, so wear one around the house for a few full days to grow accustomed to all-day wear. Or better yet — wear it outside. Go for a long walk or mow the lawn and see how you feel in the heat with your mask.

Entering Magic Kingdom

When you’re in the parks, take frequent breaks — perhaps more breaks than you’re used to taking. If you’re typically someone who hits the pavement hard rushing around Disney World, consider walking through the parks at a more leisurely pace while managing a mask.

Nomad Lounge in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Speaking of breaks, consider taking longer mid-day breaks and go back to your hotel room where you can completely remove your face mask for a longer stretch of time. Hotel breaks are always a good idea, in general, to keep your energy and spirits up over the course of your vacation, and they can really come in handy this summer!

Masks will not be required while swimming at resort pools, so a mid-day pool break may be a welcome relief.

Beach Club Resort

If you aren’t planning to do laundry during your stay, be sure to use a new mask every day. On top of that, be prepared to change your mask at least once per day while you are in the parks. This is especially true in summer when you’re visiting Disney World — be prepared for RAIN.

Rain, rain, go away!

Once a mask becomes wet it is considered no longer useful, so have extra face masks packed in your park bag if you don’t plan on going back to your hotel.

Find or Make Masks With Summer or Disney Patterns and Prints!

Whether you are making your own masks or looking to buy them, make your masks ready for summer with some fun prints! Maybe have different themed masks to match each of the four theme parks, or maybe match the resort you’re staying at!

©BitOfMagicCo on Etsy

The choices are really endless and your face mask can be another way to rep your favorite Disney character, sports team, band, or perhaps just your favorite color or pattern.

While we are faced with the reality of needing to wear face masks for the time being, we can certainly make the most out of the situation and make sure we are as comfortable (and perhaps a bit stylish) as possible.

Do you currently have plans to visit Disney World this summer? Let us know in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Featured, Walt Disney World, Disney Face Masks, Disney World, face masks, summer, summer 2020

Tags Disney Face Masks, Disney World, face masks, Featured, summer, summer 2020, Walt Disney World

Disney Food Disney Guides Disney Merch Disney Vacations Other

Going to Disney World in April? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 4, 2020

We’ve got the info you need to make your April trip to Disney World awesome!

Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival

A Disney World vacation can be magical at any time of year — as long as you plan accordingly! Between weather patterns, special events, holidays, and crowds, the prep work for your trip can vary A LOT depending on what time of year you’re traveling. Here’s what you need to know if you’re headed to Disney World in April!

Crowds at Disney World in April

Between Spring Break and Easter travel, the parks tend to see pretty heavy crowds during the first half of the month. But since the majority of Spring Breaks are scheduled in March and early April, the second half of the month generally has more moderate crowds.

Mr. Easter Bunny and Mrs. Easter Bunny

So, if you have some leniency in your travel dates, you may want to aim for closer to the end of the month to avoid the rush. And if you are traveling in early April, be sure to make your Advance Dining Reservations early to increase your odds of getting in your must-dos!

Check out three tips for mastering the Disney World FastPass+ tiers!

Park Hours at Disney World in April

While the park hours can vary by day and park, the most common opening time for parks in April is 9AM. But the closure times tend to be a little more varied! Magic Kingdom usually closes between 10PM and midnight depending on the day, while the other parks typically close between 8PM and 9PM.

Happily Ever After

So, if you’re more of a night owl, you should have some opportunities for late nights in the parks on your April trip — especially at Magic Kingdom!

Looking for even more late-night fun?? Check out our ultimate guide to the Villains After Hours events in Magic Kingdom!

Weather at Disney World in April

In April, the average high temperature in Orlando is 84 degrees and the average low is 63 degrees. And here’s something that might surprise you — there are an average of four rainy days in April, which actually makes it one of the least rainy months in Disney World.

Slinky Dog Dash

Yup, despite the common “April showers” phrase, this is one of the best months to travel to Disney World if you’re looking to avoid the rain!

Here are some tips to help you choose the right Disney World hotel for your family!

How to Pack for Disney World in April

Despite the generally warm afternoons, you could still experience a chilly morning on your trip. So, be sure to bring a light jacket or sweater that you can wear in the morning and then store in your park bag when it starts to heat up.

And it will probably be a comfortable enough temperature for most people to swim, so bring your swimsuit if you plan to take advantage of the hotel pools!

Luna Park Pool at Disney’s Boardwalk

Don’t forget to prepare for those sunny days! Make sure you have sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen (which you should take whenever you travel!) to avoid a painful and dangerous sunburn.

Check out our ultimate Disney World packing list!

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

Epcot festival fans rejoice — the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival runs during the entire month of April. Flower and Garden has been been a yearly highlight since it first kicked off in 1994, and there’s plenty to enjoy!

Topiaries

As you might have guessed from the name, there are plenty of gorgeous gardens to experience! There are over twenty topiary displays throughout the park, and guests can even spot some of their favorite characters in flower-form!

2020 Flower and Garden Festival

And the topiaries are just the beginning! There are intricate displays throughout the park including a bamboo garden, butterfly garden, floating gardens, and more!

Miniature Garden Display in the Germany Pavilion

And, of course, you can get your eat (and drink) on at the Outdoor Kitchens set up around the Promenade and World Showcase! Each year we see a mixture of both fan-favorite returning menu items and some brand-new additions. A few items that we’re still dreaming about from previous festivals are the Violet Lemonade, Canard Confit à l’Orange, and Fried Green Tomatoes!

Violet Lemonade

If you’re really interested in getting in the Flower and Garden spirit, you can check out one of the extra-ticketed special events or tours! In the past, offerings have included the Royal Tea Garden Tour, Gardens of the World Tour, Egg-Stravaganza Scavenger Hunt, and more!

Royal Tea Garden Tour

But you don’t have to spend extra to have a good time — the Garden Rocks Concert Series features three nightly performances that are totally FREE! Well, they’re included in the cost of park admission, at least.

Just keep in mind, these events are super popular, so you’ll need to get there early to ensure you get a spot! Or, to bypass the wait, you can opt for the Garden Rocks Dining Package, which includes dinner and guaranteed seating at the concert!

Garden Rocks!

Whether you’re going all-out at the food booths and extra-ticketed events, or just enjoying the topiaries and atmosphere, there’s plenty to love about the Flower and Garden Festival. If you’re visiting Disney World in April, we’d say this festival is a must-do!

Want to learn more about our favorite festival food? Click here to check out our “Best of the Fest” list from the 2020 Flower and Garden Festival!

Earth Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Earth Day might not be the first holiday that comes to mind when thinking of Disney World, but it does have a close connection to one of the parks. Animal Kingdom held its grand opening on Earth Day (April 22nd), and since the park focuses heavily on conservation, they celebrate the holiday in style.

Tree of Life

The Earth Day celebration in Animal Kingdom is known as the Party for the Planet, and there are all kinds of special activities to enjoy! In previous years, we’ve seen special character interactions, unique dining experiences, meet-and-greets with animal care specialists and conservation experts, themed merchandise, unique snacks, and more!

“Up” Cake Push Pop

So, if Earth Day happens to fall during your Disney World trip, be sure to check the dates for the Party for the Planet (it usually runs three days in total) and plan a visit to Animal Kingdom to celebrate!

Click here to learn more about the Party for the Planet celebration!

There are plenty of awesome experiences to enjoy at Disney World during the month of April! Guests are treated to warm and (relatively) dry weather, the Flower and Garden Festival, and Earth Day celebrations at Animal Kingdom. Just make sure to plan accordingly (don’t forget about those Spring Break and Easter crowds!) and you’ll be in for a magical vacation!

Planning a Disney World vacation? Here are seven things you’re probably forgetting!

Have you traveled to Disney World in April? Share your tips and must-dos in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Animal Kingdom, disney parks, disney resorts, disney’s hollywood studios, Epcot, Featured, magic kingdom, Walt Disney World, Disney topiaries, disney world crowd, disney world crowd levels, Disney World crowds, Disney World Packing List, disney world park hours, disney world planning, disney world planning tips, Disney World Plannning, Disney World weather, earth day, earth day animal kingdom, epcot international flower and garden festival, epcot international flower and garden festival 2020, Epcot Topiaries, Garden Rocks Concert Series, how to pack, Party for the Planet, topiaries, walt disney world planning

Disney Guides Disney Parks

Which Face Masks are the MOST Comfortable to Wear ALL DAY at Disney World…And Which Should You Avoid?

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 3, 2020

Searching for the perfect face covering can be a frustrating and overwhelming endeavor. There are SO many styles of masks out there, with all different sorts of materials, straps, and patterns imaginable.

Guests with Face Coverings in Disney Springs

If you’re one of the people that stays from rope drop to close, you’ll be looking at twelve or more hours living with your face mask, so comfort is going to be KEY. And with Disney requiring face coverings for all guests above the age of two, it’s advantageous to ensure you’re happy with your mask choice BEFORE you head out to the parks!

What face-covering material is the most comfortable and/or effective?

The CDC recommends that cloth face masks are the most effective when slowing the spread of illness and keeping others safe. But not all types of cloth are created equal, and some are touted as more comfortable and effective than others.

Cast Member with required face mask

When shopping for face masks, you will want to look for materials that are lightweight and breathable. In terms of effectiveness, the material that seems to work best at keeping air-borne particles at bay is a tightly-woven fabric such as cotton.

The number of layers does not seem to be a factor in effectiveness when you have a mask that is made out of these tighter-woven materials (though many still advocate for 2-layers at least). Face masks made of silk or a silk-cotton combination also seem to be effective.

Look for masks with a soft ear loop material

If you opt for a mask with ear loops, the material of the loops is just as important as the material of the face covering itself!

The traditional elastic material commonly used for ear straps can cause discomfort for some if worn over a prolonged period of time. Those elastic straps can wear on your ears and cause irritation, especially in the heat if you start sweating. We found these masks on Amazon that use softer material for the ear straps!

This pack of three is multi-layered and features a soft ear loop material. They’re $15.99 on Amazon.

Shop for this three-pack of face masks here!

These next masks come with a nose bridge wire, offering a closer fit around your nose so those with glasses do not need to worry about fogging up!

These masks also have two layers of fabric, providing more protection for those around you! You can pick up a set of two for $12.50.

Shop for these two-layered face masks here!

Invest in some ear hooks

If the masks you currently use have those traditional elastics, you can purchase a set of ear hooks that take the pressure off of your ears! There are two types of hooks we looked into. The first hook sits on the back of your head and features several “knobs” that the elastics loop around.

These have decent reviews on Amazon and allow the wearer to adjust to three different sizes! You can shop a pack of ten for $13.99.

Shop for these ear hooks here!

The next set of ear relief is these ear protectors that go around the straps themselves, giving your ears a more “cushioned” fit.

You can get a pack of five on Amazon for $7.99. This is a fairly inexpensive way to make your masks comfier around your ears without having to invest in a new set of masks!

Stock up on a pack of ear protectors here!

Shop for masks with adjustable ties

Regardless of how comfortable the ear loop material is, if it doesn’t fit, it can still cause irritation and provide for a less-than-stellar experience. Many masks come in one standard size, and even some masks with elastic earloops don’t exactly fit a “one-size-fits-all” model.

Vera Bradley Face Mask

If you have a mask that is too small or too large, you may run into some trouble if you cannot adjust the size of your mask! One way to avoid an ear catastrophe altogether is to wear a mask with ties that go around your head. The benefits of masks with ties are that you can adjust the tightness of the ties to your liking, plus it removes all of the discomfort around your ears.

You can pick up this face mask with long ties to fit around your head and neck on Amazon for $12.99.

Shop for this face mask with ties here!

When in doubt, go for a face covering with no straps at all!

If you’ve exhausted all of those traditional face mask options and you can’t seem to solve the ear problem, go with a face buff! Also known as a “neck gaiter,” these are a single piece of cloth that wraps around the lower half of your face and extends down your neck.

Many of these neck gaiters, like this one on Amazon, are moisture-wicking, meaning your face will stay dry all day long. We find kids have a VERY easy time wearing this style of mask if yours are picky like ours!

You can grab this neck gaiter on Amazon for $15.95. Note that these are not made out of cotton and are 80% polyesters and 20% spandex, so these will not be AS effective as a cotton cloth mask. If you find these to be more comfortable, be prepared to wash these more frequently!

Shop for this first neck gaiter here!

Some have raised concerns that the tightness of these may be uncomfortable. We suggest picking one up and testing it out for yourself! These are often used in sporting and other physical activities such as biking, fishing, etc. If tightness is still a concern, we found a neck gaiter with a looser fit.

This neck gaiter is also available on Amazon for $13.99.

Shop for this neck gaiter here!

What types of face coverings should you AVOID?

Per CDC guidelines, at this time surgical masks or N-95 respirators are still encouraged to be avoided for personal use and to leave those types of face coverings in supply for health care professionals. Another type of face masks that have been seen in public are those with “breathing valves.”

While they may seem appealing due to the increased breathability, research indicates that the valves allow air and particles to be exhaled out, and if the wearer is an asymptomatic carrier, pathogens could easily escape through the valves of the mask.

This makes these types of masks less effective at protecting others, which is the primary reason for the face-covering protocols.

Face Masks at American Threads

No matter what mask you choose to wear, experts recommend that you wash your mask after every use. So if you are visiting Disney World for a week this summer, be prepared to hand-wash or machine wash your mask every day, or bring enough masks to last the week!

American Threads Face Masks

When it comes to comfort, you may need to try several masks to see what will work best for you! Regardless of which mask you choose, we suggest you spend a couple of days wearing it for an extended period of time to grow accustomed to prolonged wear before heading to the parks. When it comes to effectiveness, a cloth mask made with tightly-woven cotton is going to be your best bet.

Interested in making your own face mask? Learn how to do so here!

What face masks have you found to be the most comfortable? Share in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Featured, Walt Disney World, cloth face masks, Disney Face Masks, Disney World, face coverings, face masks

Tags cloth face masks, Disney Face Masks, Disney World, face coverings, face masks, Featured, Walt Disney World

Disney Food Disney Guides Disney Merch Disney Parks Other

The ULTIMATE GUIDE to the Reopened Disney Springs in Disney World!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 2, 2020

On May 20th, Disney Springs began a phased reopening. And we’ve been there every step of the way to see how each business has been adapting to the changes.

Disney Springs

In fact, we’ve been visiting every day so we can report back on all the dining, shopping, and safety info you need.

Since we’ve written A LOT on the subject, we wanted to provide you with the “ultimate guide” to navigating the newly reopened Disney Springs! We have the scoop on all of the health and safety measures taking place as well as where to eat, drink, and shop and how eating, drinking, and shopping will look! Here’s EVERYTHING you need to know!

Entering Disney Springs

In order to help enforce the new health and safety precautions in place, the process for entering Disney Springs is a bit different than we’ve seen in the past.

Temperature Screening

There are differences in parking, where you can enter, and what you need to know and do before you go.

Operating Hours

Disney Springs is officially operating with reduced hours (10AM to 10PM).

Disney Springs

However, those hours are subject to change. To align with Orange County’s temporarily enacted curfew, Disney Springs is operating only until 7PM until further notice.

Parking

Surface parking lots and valet are unavailable. Currently, parking is only available in the Lime and Orange Parking Garages to help reduce capacity, and once these garages are full, guests won’t be able to park there and visit Disney Springs.

Orange Parking Garage

We have seen that the Orange Parking Garage has been opening well before 9AM most days. Of course, this is always subject to change.

Entrances

At this time, there are only five entrances open to Disney Springs, all of which have temperature screening checkpoints.

This Way to Temperature Screening

The entrances are at the Orange and Lime garages, the Marketplace Entrance, the bus loop near Town Center, and the rideshare drop off area.

All your questions about the reopened Disney Springs, ANSWERED!

Health and Safety Initiatives

Guests will notice a number of health and safety precautions throughout Disney Springs, some of which they’ll experience before they even have the chance to enter.

AdventHealth Signage

From what face coverings to wear to what temperature you cannot exceed to what social distancing you’ll see, we’re going to cover all of the protocols Disney has implemented below.

Face Coverings

All guests aged 2 and older are required to wear a proper face covering while visiting Disney Springs — guests without masks will not be admitted.

Advent Health Cast Member at Temperature Screening

These face coverings should cover your nose and mouth, fit snugly, be secured with ties or ear loops, and be made of a breathable material. The face coverings can either be a reusable fabric mask or disposable.

Required Measures Sign

It’s important to keep in mind you must wear your face mask for the entire duration of your visit. The only times you’re allowed to take it off are when you’re seated in a restaurant or walking around with a food or drink in hand, in which case you’re allowed to lower your mask.

Click here to learn when you will and won’t have to wear a mask in Disney World

Temperature Screenings

In addition to mandatory face masks, all guests are required to have their temperature checked before entering Disney Springs. Health care workers from AdventHeath are providing temperature screenings for guests to help ensure accuracy.

Disney Springs

Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees and above will not be allowed to enter.

Temperature Check

If a guest does test with an elevated temperature, they’re allowed to attempt a second screening a few minutes later after waiting in a tented “cool down” area. But if they still test above the maximum temperature, they will be asked to leave along with their entire party.

Rescreening Tent

Though there is a temperature check, there is no bag check to enter Disney Springs.

Click here to learn more about temperature checks in Disney World

Increased Sanitation

Guests will find hand sanitizer stations throughout Disney Springs.

Hand sanitizer station

Portable handwashing stations are also located throughout Disney Springs. They’re highly visible and easy to locate, but if you need to use one and can’t find it on your own, ask a friendly Cast Member, and they’ll be happy to direct you!

Click here to see the handwashing stations in Disney Springs

Social Distancing Squads

Speaking of wonderful Cast Members, we’ve had our first chance encounter with the Social Distancing Squad at Disney Springs!

Cast Member

These Cast Members are on hand to provide guests with additional support while ensuring nobody is breaking any rules.

Click here to learn more about these Cast Members

Social Distancing

In order to reduce contact between guests, there are social distancing markers placed throughout Disney Springs.

World of Disney Social Distancing Stickers

While Disney has its own standard set of social distancing markers, other third-party businesses are using their own signage. For instance, Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company is using coffee bean floor decals to show guests where to stand and keep them at a six-foot distance.

Joffrey’s Coffee Bean Distancing Markers

Click here to learn more about the social distancing markers in Disney Springs

Dining in Disney Springs

While not all dining locations have reopened in Disney Springs, guests will find a wide variety of options to choose from, with new locations continuing to open.

George Miliotes at Wine Bar George’s Reopening

From new utensil dispensers to contactless menus, and mobile order payment updates, we’ve seen a bunch of new procedures at some of our favorite places to dine in Disney World.

Table Service Dining

Since May 20th, we’ve eaten at STK, The Boathouse, Wine Bar George, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, T-Rex, Frontera Cocina, and more table service spots to see what changes they’ve implemented.

Sever at The Boathouse

Changes at table service locations include, but are not limited to: lower capacity, socially distanced tables, and single-use paper menus. We’ve also noticed some locations providing disposable bags to store our masks, and using contactless payment methods.

digital Checkout at STK

Note that at this time, reservations for Table-Service restaurants can NOT be made through the My Disney Experience app, but certain locations are currently bookable on Open Table or directly through the restaurants.

See what it’s like to dine at several Disney Springs restaurants that have just reopened here!

Quick Service Dining

We’ve also visited Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, Chicken Guy!, D-Luxe Burger, B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co., Pizza Ponte, Morimoto Asia Street Food, The Polite Pig, Earl of Sandwich, Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC, The Basket, 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck, and The Daily Poutine. Yep — we’ve been STUFFED lately!

Pork Rinds at The Polite Pig

In addition to single-use menus, quick service spots are also spacing out their tables, putting up plexiglass in front of cash registers, and limiting capacity in addition to other health and safety measures.

Check out our answers to ALL your questions about the reopening of Disney Springs here!

Snacking at Disney Springs

If you’re feeling thirsty or need a small snack, you’re in luck — plenty of outdoor pop-up bar and snack carts are now fully operational!

Disney Springs Pop-Up Bar Cart

Beyond alcoholic beverages, there are carts selling Mickey Pretzels and Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars! And if you’re jonesing for some Pineapple Dole Whip — the snack you voted as your most-loved Disney food — you can find it in Disney Springs right now too!

Dole Whip in Disney Springs

And for you folks at home with refillable popcorn buckets, you CAN still get ’em refilled at Disney Springs right now! If you forgot yours at home, Disney is selling some basic popcorn buckets so you can fill up on the good stuff!

Click here to see what it’s like snacking around reopened Disney Springs

Shopping in Disney Springs

World of Disney

As of May 27th, World of Disney is open daily from 10AM to close.

World of Disney

While the first day was CRAZY with over a three-hour wait and a new virtual queue system just to step foot in the store, the crowds have mostly calmed down since then.

Ears Section of World of Disney

Another thing we’ve noticed is the store has been opening earlier on certain days than its posted operating hours.

World of Disney

When we spoke with a Cast Member about why the store was already open (well before 10 AM) she told us they are trying to get a better handle on things and are taking it day-by-day. But your mileage may vary, so don’t count on getting in before the designated opening time!

Click here to learn more about the very busy reopening of World of Disney!

Store Capacity

Both Disney-owned stores and third party shops are limiting the number of guests allowed in a store at any given time. Shops such as Sephora, Under Armour, and World of Disney have reached capacity over the recent week, for example.

Virtual Queue

World of Disney has initiated a virtual queue for busy days, while other shops have guests wait outside in lines.

Click here to see our experience when Under Armour when hit capacity

Social Distancing at Stores

In addition to limiting the number of shoppers, plexiglass shields have been installed at most stores’ cash registers, and queues have been outfitted with social distancing markers.

Please Stand Here Markers at Checkout

Although contactless forms of payment are highly encouraged, most businesses are still accepting cash.

Contactless Payment Sign

We’ve seen signage asking guests to limit the handling of products and we’ve also seen that many larger stores have defined entrances and exits.

What About Samples?

Smelling spices at The Spice Tea & Exchange, playing with Legos at the Lego Store, or trying on a little makeup at Sephora is half the fun of shopping! But what about samples and trying out new products right now?

Sephora

Upon entering The Spice & Tea Exchange, we were offered hand sanitizer. However, we were still able to open jars to get a sense of the 140-plus spice blends! The jars and displays were being regularly wiped down by Cast Members.

The Spice & Tea Exchange

As for Sephora, it’s offering freshly sanitized shopping baskets and wiping down counters, but testers are for display only and all Beauty Bar services are temporarily suspended.

Safety Measures at Sephora

We also recently stopped by the newly reopened Lego Store to get ourselves equipped for Legoland Florida’s June 1st reopening.

LEGO Store employee shows a product to guests

In addition to having just one working entrance, the shop’s interactive touch screen computers have been turned off and bins with build-your-own parts were unavailable.

Computers are shut down in the LEGO Store

Store associates were also on hand to give guests products — we were NOT allowed to grab items ourselves — and guests stood to the side of cashiers when purchasing items instead of in front of them.

Click here to see more of our experience at the Lego Store!

Where to Buy Face Masks at Disney Springs

While we haven’t seen any face masks for sale yet at Disney-owned locations, we have spotted some at American Threads, Vera Bradley, and The Polite Pig.

Vera Bradley Face Masks

The stock at stores is always changing, so you never know what you’ll find at Disney Springs!

Read about our shopping experience at Disney Springs here!

Disney Springs Attractions

The new Cirque du Soliel show, Drawn to Life, has been postponed and other Disney Springs attractions such as the NBA Experience and The VOID are closed.

But there is one attraction you can still enjoy at Disney Springs!

Soar in the Sky on the Aerophile

The Aerophile, also known as the hot air balloon at Disney Springs, IS operating right now!

Disney Springs

Aerophile flights are available for $20 per person. The attraction is enforcing social distancing both in the line and in the balloon. Whereas you could wander the balloon before, now you need to stay in a designated spot while in flight.

The queue area for Aerophile

Cast members also told us they are wiping down the carriage area between parties to keep guests as safe as possible.

Click here to learn more about riding the Aerophile in reopened Disney Springs

Atmosphere

Normally, when you walk around Disney Springs, there are bands playing music and street performers entertaining crowds. But right now, those performances are on pause.

Stormtroopers

But not ALL is lost. In fact, we spotted some particularly intimidating guys enforcing social distancing! That’s right…STORMTROOPERS were patrolling above Uno de 50 recently! They’ve since relocated to the balcony above AMC!

Yes, there are STORMTROOPERS in Disney Springs today!

While it’s a far cry from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, we’ll still take it!

Click here to learn more about these unique security guards in Disney Springs!

As you can see, we’ve been pounding the pavement at Disney Springs to bring you all the details you need for your next visit as well as spotting as much new stuff as we can find!

Be sure to plan ahead for the dining and shopping experiences you want to visit, and you’ll set yourself up for a fantastic day at Disney Springs — even if it does look a little different than your last visit.

What Will It Take For You to Feel Safe at Disney World? Here’s What Our Readers Said!

Have you visited Disney Springs since it has reopened? Share your story with us in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
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Disney World Has a “Season” You Didn’t Know About! Here’s What It Is and How To Plan For It!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 1, 2020

While most of us are just regular people who like to enjoy a nice time at Disney World to relax and unwind, there is another group of super-human athletes that come to Disney to COMPETE!

It’s Mickey!

We’re talking about football players and cheer squads (along with their entourages!) which can sometimes flood Disney World Resort with THOUSANDS of peppy peeps!

If you’re not a cheerleader or proud cheer parent, you probably don’t have a clue when these major sporting events are held, or how they could impact your trip to Disney World! That’s why we want to give you a quick rundown on when these cheerleading championships typically take place — and what you can expect if your vacation dates coincide with Disney World’s Football and Cheer Season!

December

Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer and Dance Championships

While several cheer competitions are held from January to May at Disney World’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, one of the biggest youth sporting events actually takes place in December.

Pop Warner Merch

Last year, Pop Warner ran from December 7 to December 14 and brought athletes from over 64 national football teams and 400 cheer squads to Orlando to compete. Trust us when we say things can get a little hectic if Pop Warner catches you off guard! Disney even makes a special line of Pop Warner merch for the participants!

Learn more about the impact Pop Warner can have on your vacation plans here!

April – May

Numerous Cheer Championships

The next batch of major cheer tourneys crops up in springtime with the USASF Cheerleading Worlds happening in late April as well as the International Cheerleading Union World Championships (ICU).

Minnie Stops By to Lead a Cheer

The Summit, which is the last All-Star competition of the season, normally takes place in early May along with the D2 Summit typically held right after. All of these championships bring in lots of kids and spectators, so let’s explore how this might affect your vacation as a non-participant!

Check out what else could possibly come to Wide World of Sports this year!

Crowd Levels at the Disney World Theme Parks During Cheer Events

At the Beginning of the Competition

So, there’s good news and bad news. Here’s the good news first: these highly-trained athletes are here mainly for one thing and one thing only — to compete. Everything else (even Mickey Mouse!) is pretty much secondary.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Many cheer coaches won’t even allow their teams to visit the theme parks until AFTER they’re eliminated from the competition, so you might not really experience anything out of the ordinary until the first few days are over.

Check out our tips for avoiding crowds at Disney World here!

Towards the Middle and the End of the Competition

Once teams start dropping out, THEN you’ll start to see kids showing up at the parks. And once these championships are over, many teams make a point of staying an extra day or two to blow off a little of that competitive steam. Cheerleaders tend to travel in packs, so you’ll probably see some large groups of ’em (look for the BIG cheer hairbows!), but all in all, we’ve never found crowds to be THAT bad.

Magic Kingdom Sign

As long as you’ve got your FastPasses booked well in advance, you should be fine with normal to slightly above normal crowd levels (and noise levels) for a few days of your trip.

Check out some of the BIGGEST time-wasters at Disney World (and tips for how to avoid them) here!

Possible Closures

And for the Worlds Competition (the one in April), Disney’s Hollywood Studios typically holds a private after-hours party for cheer squads, meaning regular park guests will get the boot a few hours early. This is usually posted in advance on the displayed park hours, so you can plan around it — but be sure to be looking for it!

All in all, you really shouldn’t feel too much of a crunch at the parks. Now Disney World’s hotels, on the other hand, are a different story altogether.

Disney World Resorts During Cheer Events

Disney World resorts are where things start to get a little more noticeable.

All-Star Sports

Since each cheer squad is comprised of several members who often need to stay at the same hotel so they can practice, you might find yourself in the middle of an impromptu pep rally if you’re not careful!

Disney World’s Value Resorts

Cheerleaders will often stay on property at Disney World with Value Resorts being a popular option. Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, (not surprisingly) Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort tend to book up with these groups during the competitive season.

This Makes a Great Cheer Practice Spot, so Be Ready!

These groups can be found practicing on the hotel grounds at times, so if you find yourself at one of these hotels, be prepared for a little (okay, a lot) of extra energy and noise at the resort! Also, during those first few days of competition, the practices can be EARLY. So…we guess you won’t be missing Rope Drop after all?

See how some of these resorts celebrate Disney World’s Cheer Season here!

Disney World’s Moderate Resorts

While Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a moderate resort, it’s conveniently located near ESPN Wide World of Sports and many convention-goers choose it for its extra amenities.

Gran Destino Tower

If you’re staying at any of these resorts we’ve just mentioned, you’re more likely to see groups of pre-teens and teens stunting or training in common areas. They usually aren’t too rowdy, but you could hear cheering or music, which depending on your level of tolerance, might encourage you to stay elsewhere.

Learn more about Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort here!

Disney Springs During Cheer Events

You might find Disney Springs to be a little more bustling during the cheer comps, especially in the evening when the groups are looking to enjoy some retail therapy and do some carbo-loading for the big day ahead. Shops might be a bit busier while restaurants tend to book up more quickly.

Kate Spade X Minnie Mouse Collection

If you’d rather not deal with the extra crowds, do Disney Springs earlier in the day while the kids are still competing.

Click here to check out ALL of the Disney Springs restaurants!

Transportation During Cheer Events

Many of the cheerleaders use Disney World’s ground transportation. This means you might experience some delays on your end due to the increased demand for buses.

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

You might also end up on a bus filled with cheerleaders or have to wait for another bus since an entire cheer squad just filled up a bus that’s heading to or from the parks.

Incredibles Bus

Check out these ten simple tips that will make your Disney World vacation WAY easier!

Either way, we think it’s still pretty manageable to go to Disney World during Cheer Season as long as you manage your expectations and know what you’re getting into. We’ve been at Disney World many times during cheer competitions and have worked around the crowds with relative ease.

Magic Kingdom

There might be some craziness, crowds, or extra noisiness at times, but for many of these youngsters, competing in a national championship at Disney World signifies a major athletic achievement in their young lives.

To learn more about some of the transportation options Disney World has to offer, click here!

In the end, we ALL have something we hope to gain from going to Disney World, whether it’s a shiny cheer trophy or just a Mickey Pretzel! Thankfully neither are mutually-exclusive and we can all make some special Disney World memories that will last a lifetime whether we’re in it to win it or just have a relaxing vacation!

Have you ever visited Disney World during Cheer Season? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
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