It's the Year of the Tiger and Disneyland Resort is celebrating Lunar New Year 2022 in a very magical way. The complete guide to food, fun and character greetings. Plus, more Disney travel news from Toy Story Land, Downtown Disney Super Bowl fun and more.

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The Magical Disneyland Lunar New Year Celebration is Back at Disney California Adventure Park, Now Through Feb. 13, 2022

Ring in the Year of the Tiger during the Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure Park.

This event is on now and runs through February 13, 2022. It's a tribute to Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean cultures with a touch of Disney magic, featuring Asian-inspired food and drinks, vibrant décor, special merchandise and great entertainment.

For the 2022 edition, “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” introduces a new float featuring Mulan and Mushu, accompanied by traditional Chinese drummers with powerful rhythms and performers bringing cultural artistry and dance to life. 

You'll find live performances daily at The Paradise Garden Bandstand featuring traditional musical instruments, along with Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese folk dancers. 

Keep an eye out for Disney characters at the Paradise Gardens Gazebo, where you may see Tigger, Mulan and Mushu, Mickey and Minnie, and the Three Little Pigs – all dressed in their festive best.

Raya, from Disney's “Raya and the Last Dragon,” is making her official debut at the Disneyland during the Lunar New Year celebration. Raya is greeting new friends under a forest canopy deep in the heart of Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.
 
You can also stroll beneath strings of ornamental lanterns at the Lucky Wishes Wall to share your own wishes of hope, health and happiness for the Year of the Tiger. Plus, enjoy complimentary arts and crafts, such as coloring a “Dragon’s Pearl” and Chinese calligraphy with local artisans.

Of course, special Lunar New Year merch is available while supplies last, including a Mickey Mouse plush, Spirit Jersey, t shirts and more.
 
Here's the Foodie Guide to Lunar New Year 2022 at Disneyland

If you want to dine, then you may want to consider buying a Sip and Savor Pass, which gives you six coupons, redeemable for select food and non-alcoholic drinks at participating Lunar New Year Marketplace kiosks and dining locations.

Items marked with an * are recommended favorites.

Longevity Noodle Co. 
(available January 21 through February 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)
Food Items:

• Garlic Noodles: Long noodles tossed in a zesty garlic butter with Parmesan cheese
• *Spicy Pork Dandan Noodles: Pan-fried noodles with ground pork and spicy tri-chile sauce

Beverages:

• Salted Pistachio Cold Brew featuring Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. French Bistro Blend Coffee
• Pale Ale with mandarin and bergamot zest
• Novelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)

Lucky 8 Lantern 
(available January 21 through February 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)
Food Items:

• Shrimp Fried Rice with garlic bacon edamame
• *Beef Bulgogi Short Rib on rice with green onion salad

Beverages:

• Peach Yuja-Ade: Peach syrup, yuja, dragonfruit, lemon, and butterfly pea flower tea
• Soju Peach Yuja-Ade: Soju, peach syrup, yuja, dragonfruit, lemon, and butterfly pea flower tea
• Lager
• Novelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)

Prosperity Bao & Buns 
(available January 21 through February 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)
Food Items:

• *Char Siu BBQ Pork Bao: Pickled red onions and jalapeño
• Mickey Chinese Hot Dog Bun: Brioche-style Mickey-shaped buns stuffed with hot dog and finished with sesame seeds and scallions

Beverages:

• Prosperous Tiger: Vodka, cream of coconut, bitters, triple sec, mandarin purée, vanilla bean
• Lychee Celebration: Gin, prosecco, lychee purée, lychee syrup, grapefruit juice, and yuja
• Bamboo Lager
• Novelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)

Red Dragon Spice Traders 
(available January 21 through February 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)
Food Items: 

• *Spicy Three-Cup Chicken served on a bed of jasmine rice
• Impossible™ Lion’s Head Meatballs: Mini plant-based pork meatballs served with cabbage and Shaoxing wine reduction
• Mickey Purple Sweet Potato Macaron: Red macaron filled with purple sweet potato buttercream and crème fraîche center

Beverages:

• Dancing Firecracker: Pineapple juice, guava purée, spicy honey syrup, hibiscus syrup, and lime juice
• Jasmine Tea Lager
• Novelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)

Seasonal Cart 
(available January 21 through February 13; Sip and Savor Pass available)
Food Items:

• Mango-Pineapple Pie

Beverages:

• Mulan Sipper with assorted Coca-Cola bottled beverage or DASANI bottled water

Seasonal Cart in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail 
(available January 21 through February 13)
Food Item:

• Brown Sugar Steam Bun: Brown sugar steam bun topped with blue cream cheese icing (New)

Beverages:

• White Hot Chocolate: Blue white chocolate topped with toasted marshmallow whipped cream and purple sugar (non-alcoholic) (New)
• Warm Apple Cider Cocktail: Hot apple cider, spices, and cinnamon whiskey garnished with a cinnamon stick and a caramel rim (New)

Studio Catering Truck 
(available January 10 through March 01)
Food Item:

• Hoisin Pork Sliders: Marinated pulled pork on Hawaiian rolls with apple slaw (New) 

Beverages:

• Green Tea Slush: Almond milk, green tea, and vanilla (non-alcoholic) (New)
• Lemongrass-Ginger Lemonade: Lemongrass, lemon juice, ginger, and mint (non-alcoholic) (New)

Lucky Fortune Cookery 
(available January 21 through February 13; mobile order and Sip and Savor Pass available)
Beverages:

• Hong Kong-style Milk Tea: Black tea sweetened with condensed milk served over ice (non-alcoholic) (New)
• Mulan Sipper with choice of: Fountain beverage at time of purchase, Hong Kong-style milk tea, or Vietnamese iced coffee (non-alcoholic)
• Novelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)

Cappuccino Cart 
(available January 21 through February 13; mobile order and Sip and Savor Pass available) 
Food Items: 

• Baked Char Siu Bao: Chinese BBQ pork-filled baked bun (New)
• Mango-Pineapple Pie: Mango and pineapple-filled pie (New)

Paradise Garden Grill 
(available January 21 through February 13; mobile order and Sip and Savor Pass available)
Food Items:

• Korean-style BBQ Chicken: Half chicken with steamed white rice, kimchi, pickled cucumbers, and sesame seeds (Sip and Savor portion available)
• Pork Banh Mi: Grilled pork belly with pickled daikon, carrots, cucumber, jalapeño, cilantro, and seasoned mayonnaise on a crispy baguette (Sip and savor portion available)
• Spicy Kung Pao Tofu: Deep fried tofu with zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, red peppers, peanuts, and fried rice garnished with garlic deep-fried chips (Sip and Savor portion available) (New)
• Whole Fried Fish: Crispy whole fish, sweet and sour sauce, steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables and chicken soup – served family-style for two
• Green Tea Raspberry Parfait: Green tea mousse, raspberry jelly, white sponge cake, white chocolate mousse, and candy pearls
• Sides of steamed or fried rice

Beverages:

• Tiger Milk Tea with brown sugar boba (non-alcoholic) (New)
• Soju Cocktail: Soju, ginger beer, lemon, basil, Fresno chile, lychee flavor-filled boba (non-alcoholic) (New)
• Mulan Sipper with choice of fountain beverage at time of purchase (non-alcoholic)
• Novelty: Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Sip and Savor Pass not accepted)

Paradise Gardens Special Events Cart 
(available January 21 through February 13)
Food Items:

• *Gochujang Wings: Chicken wings in spicy gochujang sauce
• Asian-style Street Corn: Steamed corn on the cob rolled in spicy gochujang sauce (New)
• Korean-style BBQ Nachos: Bulgogi pork belly, cheesy corn sauce, gochujang crema, fresh radish, and spicy cucumbers on house-made chips (New)
• Orange-flavored Cotton Candy
• Mango-Pineapple Pie: Mango and pineapple-filled pie (New) 

Beverages:

• Mulan Sipper with assorted Coke or other drinks, or DASANI bottled water (non-alcoholic)
• Puffed Rice Pale Ale

Lamplight Lounge 
(available January 21 through February 13)   
Food Items:

• *Korean-style BBQ Nachos: Bulgogi pork belly, cheesy corn sauce, gochujang crema, fresh radish, and spicy cucumbers on house-made chips (New)
• Kung Pao Bao: Kung Pao-glazed crispy pork belly, chili peanuts, steamed bao bun, red pepper, and green onion slaw
• Oolong Donut: Oolong-dusted beignet donut served with oolong crème anglaise, and orange soy pudding dipping sauces

Beverages:

• Lunar Cocktail: Baiju Chinese liquor, smoked orange syrup, orange bitters and lemon juice garnished with orange peel (New) 

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: GCH Holiday Cart

Food Items:

• Lantern Whoopie Pie: Whoopie pie filled with vanilla buttercream and dipped in pearl sprinkles
• Assorted Pretzel Sticks: Tiger-striped chocolate pretzel sticks
• Mickey-shaped Tiger Sugar Cookie: Sugar cookie dipped in red chocolate with gold Mickey-shaped tiger

ESPN will be at Disneyland Resort for Super Bowl Week

ESPN will be at Disneyland Resort for Super Bowl LVI, with productions originating from Disney California Adventure park beginning Wednesday, February 9, through Super Bowl Sunday on February 13. Downtown Disney will have a fan experience Thursday, February 10 through Sunday, February 13.

Clearing Up the Confusion over the "New Playset Fun" Coming to Toy Story Land in 2022
 
We clear up the confusion that Disney's unclear news release caused about exactly what's coming to Toy Story Land. Here's what their release said:

"After enjoying a rollicking ride through Toy Story Mania!, Guests will soon be treated to a new experience that is filled to the brim with fun. Andy discovered Jessie’s Trading Post playset tucked away in the attic, and is bringing it downstairs to set up shop—full of the coolest toys and finest souvenirs handpicked by the rootinest, tootinest cowgirl."

Find out what that actually means in this episode. Plus, also coming in 2022 to Andy’s backyard is the Roundup Rodeo BBQ restaurant. You'll be able to enjoy barbecue fare while surrounded by toys, games, and playsets that Andy has brought together for his one-of-a-kind rodeo.

Disney is promising an immersive experience where the rodeo will be in full swing, with western town and train station playsets mixing with surprising, playful details, like some fan-favorite Pixar characters as they’ve never been seen before!

Disney Skyliner International Gateway line temporary closure January 23-28

In an effort to continually enhance the Guest experience here at Walt Disney World, we refresh our offerings from time to time. As previously announced in May 2021, Disney Skyliner transportation between EPCOT International Gateway, Disney’s Riviera Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort will be unavailable from Sunday, January 23 through Friday, January 28.

Thank You for Listening to The Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you for joining us at 1923 Main Street, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed the show. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes, Spotify or your favorite podcast player. A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes and the latest Disney travel news on our Disney podcast each week.

Contact us at 1923 Main Street

We know that you enjoy Disney podcasts and we thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas that we can include in future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Your Source for the Latest Disney Travel News

If you would like to help support the show, please share 1923 Main Street with your friends and on social media. We very much appreciate the support!

Shop Disney

Be sure to visit our online shop to see a wide selection of 1923 Main Street merchandise, plus original Disney-inspired t-shirts and more.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

There's good news and bad news to share with the reopening of Disney's Typhoon Lagoon at Walt Disney World. Hear the full story plus more of the latest Disney travel news.

Listen to the Latest Disney Travel News

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon has Reopened, but there's more to the story

The surf’s up once again at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, but that's only part of the story. The tropical-island-inspired water park reopened to guests on January 2, 2022. Unfortunately, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park closed to guests (temporarily at least) on New Year's Day (January 1, 2022). Disney giveth and Disney taketh away.

There's always a lot to do at Typhoon Lagoon, but with the Walt Disney World 50th anniversary underway, there are a few more things you should know.

What's New and What's a Must-Do at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon in 2022

You Can Create Your Own Custom Dole Whip 
The Snack Shack next to Typhoon Tilly’s at Typhoon Lagoon allows you to sample items from a menu of all-new frozen dessert bar items. You can even mix and match some favorite DOLE Whip flavors including mango, pineapple, lime and raspberry to build your own custom Disney Dole Whip. Adult Guests can choose to electrify their Dole Whips by adding tequila, coconut rum or dark rum. Plus, the new Moana-inspired Dole Whip cones are also available as an option.

An Old Favorite is Back: Surfing at Typhoon Lagoon
You can learn to surf with professional instructors at the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, America’s largest outdoor wave pool. 

Crush ‘n’ Gusher: The Disney Water Coaster
What do you get when you combine a water slide and roller coaster? A water coaster! There are three tropical fruit-themed chutes: Pineapple Plunger, Coconut Crusher or Banana Blaster.

50th Anniversary-Inspired Menu Items
From Walt’s Chili Nachos, which offer a special twist on one of Walt Disney’s favorite meals, to the EARidescent Ice Dream Cone, a birthday cake-flavored soft-serve spectacular, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is home to a variety of delicious anniversary-themed treats.

Castaway Creek, The Typhoon Lagoon Lazy River
If water slides aren't your thing or you just want a little time to slow things down, Castaway Creek offers a "peaceful drift" down a 2,000-foot lazy river, floating past shady grottoes, thundering waterfalls, overhead rope bridges and lush rainforest landscapes.

Don’t ‘Miss’ Out on Miss Adventure Falls
As the story goes, Miss Adventure Falls is owned by Captain Mary Oceaneer – a sea-faring treasure hunter whose haul got caught in the rogue typhoon. This thrilling family-friendly adventure is the newest attraction at Typhoon Lagoon and gives you the opportunity to hunt for Captain Mary’s scattered global treasures during their voyage.

Relax in a Beachcomber Shack, a Private Cabana
If you want to splurge for your own private space, you can relax in an piece of paradise by booking a Beachcomber Shack, a luxury cabana space featuring cushioned seating, secluded shade and exclusive menu.

Beachcomber Shacks include room for up to six guests, and they have amenities such as towels, cushioned chairs, refillable drink mugs, a locker, and a cooler stocked with ice and bottled water. They make an excellent home base for your stay and you get your own personal attendant.

Be sure to Head Over to Humunga Kowabunga
It's not quite Summet Plummet, but thrill seekers will love the near-vertical drops at Humunga Kowabunga, a downhill slide that uses the steep slopes of Mount Mayday to power your progress.

In other Disney Travel News...

Explore Europe with 2022 Adventures By Disney Danube and Rhine River Cruises
If you've ever dreamed of taking an Adventures by Disney river cruise to see the towns and landscapes of Europe, Disney has announced a special offer.

Adventures by Disney guests can save $500 per person on select 2022 Danube and Rhine River cruises. Departures must be booked before February 28, 2022 and your travel dates must be between June 26 and August 4, 2022. There is limited availability and the offer excludes category E staterooms and Suites.

Thank You for Listening to The Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you for joining us at 1923 Main Street, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed the show. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes, Spotify or your favorite podcast player. A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes and the latest Disney travel news on our Disney podcast each week.

Contact us at 1923 Main Street

We know that you enjoy Disney podcasts and we thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Your Source for the Latest Disney Travel News

If you would like to help support the show so that we can continue to improve the podcast, please share 1923 Main Street with your friends and on social media.

Shop Disney

Be sure to visit our online shop to see a wide selection of 1923 Main Street merchandise, plus original Disney-inspired t-shirts and more.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! This week on Disney Travel Podcast we share the latest on several Walt Disney World tours that are making a comeback in 2022. Plus, we have the latest news on the 2022 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival and some very special perks for Disney World holiday guests this year.

Listen to The Disney Travel News Podcast

Important Holiday Perks and Changes at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World has made some temporary adjustments "to help provide a great experience for our Guests." From December 19 to January 3, 2022 Disney World resort guests will get Extra Park Time! The early theme park entry benefit for Disney Resort hotel Guests and Guests of other select hotels will be extended from 30 minutes to 60 minutes.

In addition to that little perk, more attractions will be included in the Disney Genie+ service and will no longer be included as individual Lightning Lane purchase options. So you get more for your money with DisneyGenie+.

Attractions now part of Lightning Lane include:

• Magic Kingdom Park: Space Mountain
• EPCOT: Frozen Ever After
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park: Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

From the Enchanting Extras Collection - Tours are Coming Back to WDW

Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom
This five-hour walking tour Explores the history of Magic Kingdom Park, including backstage access to the hidden “utilidor” service tunnels. You'll also learn hidden secrets of classic attractions and lunch is included. You must be 16 or older for this tour.

Caring for Giants
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park this one-hour tour offers a magical experience and opportunity to meet some of the park's largest inhabitants. Your guide will share insights into the inner workings of the African elephant herd, including a look a the day-to-day care for these amazing animals. You'll see these gentle giants from a private backstage viewing area and learn how Disney’s conservation efforts help to preserve wild elephant populations around the world. 

Wild Africa Trek
One of our favorites, Wild Africa Trek combines action, adventure and education into a three-hour safari adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. Cross a swinging rope bridge near crocodiles and view giraffes, rhinos, hippos and more on foot and in a safari vehicle. The guides are excellent and will share insights about all the animals you see plus details about the park. Recommended.
 
Up Close with Rhinos
Want to get even closer to nature? This one-hour tour takes you backstage to the second largest land animal in ways few people can. You'll meet the white rhinos at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and get insights into their behavior and biology and more.

Savor the Savanna
This one's a little different. It explores the sights, sounds and tastes of Africa on Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park’s Savor the Savanna tour. Get samplings of African-inspired cuisine, paired with a selection of regional beer and wine offerings from a great spot overlooking the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Your private guide will share stories about the unique residents who inhabit the reserve and the special animal care provided at the park. 

Advance bookings are highly recommended for all tours and valid theme park admission and reservations.

In addition, Disney has let it slip that the Starlight Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge may be next.
 
Disney Cruise Line Selects Port Everglades as Second Year-round Home Port in Florida

The Broward County Commission and Disney Cruise Line announced a new agreement naming Port Everglades as Disney’s second year-round homeport in Florida. This is a 15-year partnership that provides for one ship to be homeported in Port Everglades year-round starting fall 2023, joined by a second, seasonal ship in 2025.

Adding Port Everglades as a second homeport gives Disney a dedicated terminal in a market with direct highway access and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Disney’s original homeport is Port Canaveral, located in Central Florida.
 
2022 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

Spring is already in the air at Walt Disney World as the horticulture team is busy creating topiaries, hanging baskets, flower towers and more in preparation for the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. The 2022 edition will run March 2 through July 4. That’s 125 days of festival cuisine, gardens, topiaries and entertainment.

The 2022 edition will feature a new Goofy topiary and a 50th-themed birthday cake. Other favorite Disney Character topiaries will include Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Germany pavilion or Lumiere and Cogsworth welcoming you to the expanded France pavilion.

As always, gardeners can enjoy thousands of blooms forming colorful, living panoramas all around and for foodies, fresh flavors are on the menu at the festival’s 18 Outdoor Kitchens plus other food and beverage locations around EPCOT.

The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series will return in 2022 at the America Gardens Theatre. The list of musicians who will be playing has not yet be released.

To visit the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival you'll need valid admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date. 
 
New Shops and Photo Opps at Disneyland's Downtown Disney District

Pelé Soccer
If you're a soccer fan, you'll love this stadium-themed store with a wide assortment of soccer gear from renowned global sports brands at this specialty shop named after Pelé, the legendary Brazilian superstar and one of the greatest soccer players of all time. Watch for official club and national team jerseys from around the world, sports apparel, cleats, balls and more for the whole family. Jerseys can be customized with a name and number.

Post 21
Located in the east end of the district, Post 21 is new kiosk from an inspiring mother-daughter team from Los Angeles who have curated modern unique merchandise from Black-owned businesses. 

Boba Fett’s Throne (photo opp)
Take a photo sitting on a replica of the throne featured in the Disney+ Original Series, “The Book of Boba Fett.” For a limited time, located outside of the entrance at the Star Wars Trading Post.

Coming Soon! Lovepop
Opening soon, Lovepop is the place to find eye-catching 3D pop-up cards, stationery and gifts. Lovepop has more than 400 designs so something for every occasion. And yes, Lovepop carries a collection of Disney cards and gifts.

Bonus News!

Disneyland turns Mickey's ToonTown house into a private party location. January 19 - March 6 (before the refurb closure). Book your event at disneyland.com/celebratemickeystoontown

Thank You for Listening

Thank you for listening to 1923 Main Street, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed the show. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes, Spotify or your favorite podcast player. A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes of our Disney podcast each week.

Contact us at 1923 Main Street

We know that you enjoy Disney podcasts and we thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Your Source for the Latest Disney Travel News

If you would like to help support the show so that we can continue to improve the podcast, please share 1923 Main Street with your friends and on social media.

Shop Disney

Be sure to visit our online shop to see a wide selection of 1923 Main Street merchandise, plus original Disney-inspired t-shirts and more.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

It sure looks like 2022 is shaping up to be a big year for Disney Parks and for Disneyland in particular. Join us for this show to hear what's coming back to Disney Parks in 2022 and all the latest Disney travel news that you need to know.

Listen to Disney Travel News Now

Coming back to Disneyland in 2022: Sweethearts’ Nite, Villains Nite and Star Wars Nite 

Disneyland After Dark events take place after regular park hours with festivities, special nighttime entertainment, access to most attractions with reduced wait times. There are special things to do not typically available during regular park visits.

With each separately ticketed Disneyland After Dark event, you get four hours of fun after the parks close to regular visitors. Three-hour pre-party mix-in at the same park before the official start.

At each event, you get unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party, plus commemorative keepsakes including a souvenir credential and event guide map.

Here are the details for each of the upcoming themed nights:

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite
Feb. 1, 3, 8, 10 and 14, 2022, at Disneyland Park (now on sale on Disneyland.com)
Sweethearts’ Nite at Disneyland Park on five separate nights in February -- including Valentine’s Day, which is celebrated on the final Sweethearts’ Nite.

Here’s what to expect:

• A special themed fireworks show
• Projection effects on Sleeping Beauty Castle and Main Street, U.S.A.
• A jazz ensemble aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat, plus other live entertainment, including a Royal Ball and a dance party with a DJ
• Spot the most darling Disney couples, and take selfies with your favorites
• Fun photo opportunities featuring romantic scenes from iconic Disney films
• Lovely décor, along with food and beverage offerings around the park
• Early admission to Disneyland park starting at 5:00 p.m., no theme park reservation required

Disneyland After Dark: Villains Nite
March 8 and 10, 2022, at California Adventure (on sale on Disneyland.com, as of January 11, 2022)
At Villains Nite you get to party with some of Disney’s most infamous villains at Disney California Adventure Park. Just two nights in March.

Here's what you get:

• The Cauldron is a cabaret show featuring a cast of villains showing off their talents through song and dance
• Ursula’s Seaside Sing-a-long, where you can find your voice
• The Underworld Dance Party, which allows you to bust a move at a DJ dance party in the Hollywood Backlot
• Special photo backdrops, featuring scenes inspired by some favorite villains
• Some of Disney’s infamous villains – or their sidekicks – at special locations in the park
• Devilishly decadent food and drink offerings
• Early admission to Disney California Adventure park beginning at 5:00 p.m., no theme park reservation required

Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite 
May 3, 4 and 27, 2022, at Disneyland Park (on sale Disneyland.com, beginning January 11, 2022)
Star Wars Nite features galactic fun on three separate nights at Disneyland Park in May 2022.

Highlights of Star Wars Nite include:

• A pyrotechnic show that will light up the night with a Star Wars-themed fireworks show
• March of the First Order, featuring Captain Phasma and her elite unit of Stormtroopers
• A Galactic dance party
• Sightings of various Star Wars characters throughout the evening  
• Star Wars-themed attractions, usually with shorter wait times
• Star Wars-themed eats and treats, merchandise, photo opportunities, and more
• Plus, early admission to Disneyland park starting at 6 p.m., no theme park reservation required

If you bought a ticket for the 2020 Disneyland After Dark: Villains Nite or Star Wars Nite, you can exchange you 2020 tickets to one of the nights of the new event of the same theme. You may need to pay a small price difference if the new show costs more. 
 
Should You Even Bother Visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland Without a Phone?

We tackle this hot topic on this week's show and share our thoughts on why it's a good thing that you'll need a digital device to get the most out of your Disney Parks vacation.

Even More Entertainment Returning to Disneyland in 2022

“Tale of the Lion King”
Sometime in the spring, the Fantasyland Theater at Disneyland park will become home to “Tale of the Lion King.” It debuted in 2019 at Disney California Adventure park and then covid hit. The Storytellers of the Pride Lands are a troupe of traveling performers who present Simba’s journey in a unique story with live music and dance.

“Main Street Electrical Parade”
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the “Main Street Electrical Parade” will make its big return to Disneyland park! 

“Fantasmic!”
“Fantasmic!” is coming back too. It's nearly 30 years old at Disneyland park and it's Disney’s longest-running nighttime spectacular.

“World of Color”
World of Color is getting set to light up the night at Paradise Bay in Disney California Adventure park this spring.

“Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular
“Disneyland Forever” coming back with some surprising special effects. Main Street, U.S.A., and other spots in Disneyland park will become the canvas as a world of dreams takes over the park. From “Peter Pan” flying over the London skyline, to a dance with King Louie in “The Jungle Book” it's all back. Plus, two original songs, “Live the Magic” and the closing song “Kiss Goodnight,” both written by Disney Legend Richard Sherman.

“Celebrate Gospel!”
A celebration of the soulful spirit of Gospel music will return with “Celebrate Gospel!” on select days in February. The event moves to the Fantasyland Theater at Disneyland park.
 
Festival of the Arts Update (January 14 - February 21, 2022)
 
In our last episode we talked about the Broadway performers at Festival of the Arts...now it's all about the food and art.

Watch for art-inspired menus at 15 Food Studios throughout World Showcase. Deco Delights and The Craftman’s Courtyard will debut at the festival, featuring artfully presented cuisine and beverages as visually appealing as they are delicious. The complete foodie guide in early 2022.
Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – a food stroll with 5 sweet & savory offerings. Once you buy (and get your passport stamped) for all 5, you’ll get an Artist Palette Cookie as a bonus.

Visual art -- over 100 Disney and visiting artists will showcase their works throughout EPCOT. See artists at work from the Disney Artist Gallery and the WonderGround Gallery, plus see pieces from ACME Archives, Thomas Kinkade Studios, Wyland Galleries and POP Gallery.
Figment also lends an artistic touch to this year’s festival merchandise collection.

Chalk artists will create masterpieces at Chalk Art Galleries, and you can learn how to draw a Disney Character at Animation Academy. Children can create their own chalk masterpieces at Kid’s Chalk Art and families can leave their artistic stamp on a larger-than-life mural at Expression Section: A Paint by Numbers Mural. Around World Showcase there will be Photo Ops around famous works of art.

Thank You for Listening

Thank you for listening to 1923 Main Street, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed the show. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes, Spotify or your favorite podcast player. A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes of our Disney podcast each week.

Contact us at 1923 Main Street

We know that you enjoy Disney podcasts and we thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Your Source for the Latest Disney Travel News

If you would like to help support the show so that we can continue to improve the podcast, please share 1923 Main Street with your friends and on social media.

Shop Disney

Be sure to visit our online shop to see a wide selection of 1923 Main Street merchandise, plus original Disney-inspired t-shirts and more.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

More Walt Disney World restaurants are reopening at just in time for the holidays. Plus, Mobile Checkout Magic is expanding (and we share how it works) and even more Disney festive sweets and treats await your vacation arrival. It's all this week in your 15-minute Disney travel news podcast.

Listen to the Disney Travel News Podcast

Two Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants are reopening, plus more treats to watch for...

Story Book Dining at Artist Point, themed after Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will reopen Dec. 16 at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

As part of the new Character Dining experience, guests will see Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and The Queen stroll through the Enchanted Forest while enjoying a bountiful prix fixe dinner with the choice of individually plated entrées and shared starters and desserts. Start with a refreshing cocktail like the Enchanted Apple with a hint of sour apple. The Royal Prime Rib Roast and the vegetarian A Stroll Through Nature are both returning as well as the decadent “Poison” Apple dessert with dark chocolate-apple mousse.

Boatwright’s Dining Hall, a hidden gem at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside, will be serving its Southern fare starting December 14, 2021. 

The flavors of Louisiana are front and center with the all-you-care-to-enjoy Chef’s Platter featuring ribs, Nashville hot chicken, smoked sausage, and barbecued beef brisket with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, street corn and green beans.

General Fulton’s Prime Rib and the Deep-South Shrimp and Grits, are back as well. Along with the signature Boatwright’s Jambalaya and even the plant-based Boatwright’s Harvest Jambalaya. For a Southern style dessert there's the Mississippi Mud Crème Brûlée, a decadent chocolate brûlée with a chocolate shortbread cookie. If you love chocolate, this one's for you.

Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts has the 50th Celebration Shake: a birthday-cake-flavored milkshake drizzled in gold glitter glaze topped with a slice of commemorative 50th celebration birthday cake.
 
Whispering Canyon Café at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is the place to be if you want to start your breakfast off with a bang of sweet and spice. Try the “Dynamite“ Cinnamon Roll Sticks -- Each order has five fiery red sticks filled with cinnamon schmear sprinkled with crushed red-hot candies and a drizzle of cinnamon oil. And for the dynamite wick – bacon! These sharable sticks of cinnamon goodness are served with a warm candied nut glaze.
 
The White Chocolate Peppermint Cream Cheese Mousse with peppermint sauce and chocolate cookie crumbles will be offered at Satu’li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park from Dec. 20-27. White chocolate, peppermint, and cream cheese mousse? 

La Crêperie de Paris is the newest addition to the France Pavilion at Epcot. It's now taking reservations for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features savory galettes and sweet dessert crêpes, along with some of Brittany’s famous hard ciders.

Order from the prix fixe menu with a choice of soup of the day or salade maison; choice of one galette with a glass of hard cider, soda, or juice; choice of one dessert crêpe.

Festive Treats at Disney's Magic Kingdom Park

Magic Kingdom Park has two new offerings for The World’s Most Magical Celebration. Main Street Bakery has the Opening Day Celebration Cake that features milk chocolate mousse, raspberry center, and gluten-friendly chocolate cake topped with balloon sprinkles and a chocolate piece.

At Storybook Treats Grumpy gets his own Seven Dwarfs Specialty Cone – a cranberry vanilla soft-serve in a cone with a chocolate belt buckle and an adorable “Grumpy” chocolate face! It's a limited-time offer only available through January 9, 2022.

Also at Magic Kingdom Park for a limited time is the Black Forest Cheesecake at Pinocchio Village Haus. This is a chocolate cheesecake topped with cherry compote, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a white chocolate coin inspired by the “it’s a small world” attraction.

Three refreshing holiday offerings are making a splash at Disney’s Water Parks from Dec. 12-Jan. 7. 

• Orange Bird Holiday Citrus Swirl –DOLE Whip Orange and Lime swirl in a holiday waffle cone, and a white chocolate Orange Bird Santa (available at Warming Hut) 
• Merry Merry Melon –Melon- and apple-flavored frozen rum cocktail with a red sugared rim topped with a cherry (available at Frostbite Freddie’s) 
  
• Peppermint Milkshake –Peppermint-flavored milkshake with white chocolate whipped cream and holiday sprinkles (available at Lottawatta Lodge)

The best spots for special holiday snaps at Walt Disney World 

There are holiday-themed Magic Shots at all four parks and Disney Springs so be sure to ask the PhotoPass photographer which Magic Shots they can offer at their location. 

At Magic Kingdom Park head to the photographer near the lawn in front of The Plaza Restaurant to enjoy our Super Zoom Magic Shot with a holly-jolly makeover.

At Disney Springs, the Disney PhotoPass Studio in the Marketplace is offering holiday themed virtual backdrops.

Also at Disney Springs you can get your photo with Santa at Once Upon a Toy. There is a Disney PhotoPass photographer so you don't have to do Santa selfies. There's a virtual queue available and masks are required for this indoor experience.

And if you want to add some extra holiday cheer to your photos, photographers at some locations have handheld props that you can use in your photos.   
 
Merchandise Mobile Check-Out

Since last year, Disney has been testing a new mobile checkout option (through My Disney Experience or Disneyland app) at select merchandise shops throughout Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. It's now being rolled out to more locations:

Walt Disney World 

• World of Disney at Disney Springs
• Creations Shop at EPCOT
• Emporium at Magic Kingdom Park – New!
• Mickey’s of Hollywood at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Coming soon!
• Island Mercantile at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – Coming soon! 

Disneyland Park

• Disney Clothiers, Ltd., China Closet and Plaza Point
• Emporium
• Pioneer Mercantile and Bonanza Outfitters – New!
• The Star Trader – New!

Disney California Adventure Park

• Elias & Co.
• WEB Suppliers – New!
• Knick's Knacks – New!

Downtown Disney District

• World of Disney 

Here's how it works...

When you're ready to shop, open the My Disney Experience or Disneyland app and scan the barcodes on your items as they add them to your bag. Once you're done shopping, you can check-out on mobile and show your purchase QR code -- and the items you bought -- to a Cast Member at the designated exit, and you're done. 

If you have an Annual Passholder, Magic Key or Disney Vacation Club discount make sure your pass or membership is linked to their Disney account, and the valid discounts will be applied automatically when through mobile checkout.

Disney has officially launched a Super Zoom Magic Shot at EPCOT, now in all 4 parks
 
Capture the new Epcot Super Zoom Magic Shot by visiting the photographer stationed just past the fountain near the main entrance of the park, almost right next to the recently introduced Tiny World Magic Shot! 
 
If you have active Disney PhotoPass access such as Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day, you can download and share Super Zoom and Tiny World Magic Shots at no extra cost, alongside all of your other Disney PhotoPass vacation memories captured around Walt Disney World Resort.
 
Where to get a Classic Disneyland Candy Cane

The cult classic Disneyland Candy Cane has been a tradition since 1968. These famous candy canes are hand-crafted during the holiday season – from mixing the ingredients to hand-pulling, rolling, and twisting the candy. The result is a massive 18-inch-long candy cane.

A very limited number of these impressive candy canes will be produced this season so you'll have to act fast. They will be sold only at:

• Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen at Disneyland Park: Dec. 7, 9,15, 21, 23
• Trolley Treats at Disney California Adventure Park: Dec. 8, 14, 16, 22
  

For a chance to purchase one of the candy canes this year, a mobile waitlist system will be used. Once the mobile waitlist is activated, you can add your name and phone number to receive a text back with a time to return to the location you chose for the opportunity to purchase a candy cane, subject to availability. Candy canes are not available through mobile order.

2022 Disneyland Festivals
 
Two fan-favorite limited-time festivals will be back next year at Disney California Adventure Park. The Lunar New Year celebration will take place from January 21 through February 13, 2022, and the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival will run from March 4 through April 26, 2022. 
Lunar New Year is a celebration that commemorates traditions of Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures. The festival features multicultural performances, special activities, culinary delights, beautiful décor, celebratory merchandise, and more.

2022 is the Year of the Tiger at the Lunar New Year festival. So naturally, Tigger will join in on the fun, along more Disney characters including Mulan and Mushu, Mickey and Minnie, the Three Little Pigs and more, all donning their festive attire.

Adding to the excitement of Lunar New Year, Raya from “Raya and the Last Dragon” will be appearing for the very first time at Disneyland Resort during the celebration. You'll be able to see Raya in a setting inspired by her native Kumandra, recreated in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.

The popular show “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” will return. This bright and bold performance hosted by Mulan and her faithful dragon, Mushu honors family, friendship, and the potential for a fortune-filled new year. Live musical entertainment will also be there at the Paradise Garden Bandstand.

The Sip and Savor Pass will also be back, for extra enjoyment as you taste your way through the four Lunar New Year marketplaces, all featuring delicious Asian cuisine. Plus, there will also be special Lunar New Year-inspired food and drink offerings at select dining locations throughout the park.

The Lucky Wishing Wall and craft activities will also back at this year’s celebration.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, March 4 – April 26, 2022

Get ready for a taste of what you’ve been missing at the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival! Explore California regions and neighborhoods in a number of ways, from the delicious culinary offerings, to the vibrant entertainment, fun festival merchandise and more.

Complimentary culinary demonstrations with local, celebrity and Disney chefs will return on Saturdays and Sundays during the festival. And for those looking to enhance their festival experience, special signature events will also be available to book and purchase, including the Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions, and Wine, Beer and Mixology Education & Tasting Seminars.

Entertainment will fill the festival’s stages, with live musical performances at the Palisades Stage and

Paradise Gardens Bandstand, visits with Chef Goofy and friends, and craft activities.

Thank You for Listening

Thank you for listening to 1923 Main Street, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed the show. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes, Spotify or your favorite podcast player. A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes of our Disney podcast each week.

Contact us at 1923 Main Street

We know that you enjoy Disney podcasts and we thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Your Source for the Latest Disney Travel News

If you would like to help support the show so that we can continue to improve the podcast, please share 1923 Main Street with your friends and on social media.

Shop Disney

Be sure to visit our online shop to see a wide selection of 1923 Main Street merchandise, plus original Disney-inspired t-shirts and more.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic