walt disney world resort

My runDisney Race Weekend Sponsored by Enterprise

2 June 2022 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Princess 5K 2011 — My original runDisney race – Still running with my phone in hand!

I registered for my first runDisney race back in 2010. It was the Mickey’s Halloween 5K, part of the first-ever Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend that year. It was a different time and I made so many new friends and connections through Twitter. We were all calling it #EpicOctober and meeting up at various times. I was also meeting up with my fellow Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now planDisney) panelists, as it was my first year on the panel. I had never run anything in my life and was very, very worried I would not be able to complete the 5K. So, I didn’t go. I was ashamed, embarrassed and vowed that I would do a runDisney 5K someday, especially after meeting up with all my friends who did it and listening to all the fun they had on the course. So, I registered for the 5K during the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. And this time, I actually did it!

Fast forward many years, and many, many runDisney races have taken place. Over that time, I did a handful of 5K’s and one 10K back in 2016. I then took 7 years off. A lot happened in my life between then and now, and I began to focus more on my health and fitness. I lost 75lbs over the past 2 years, and though I’ve been vegetarian since 2012, I went vegan in 2018, and have been ever since. After these changes, I decided to get back into runDisney races, and vowed that 2022 would be my “Year of runDisney” and I would do all the races I could this year. I bounced back with the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend races in January of 2022, where I did the 5K and 10K again. I had caught the runDisney bug and decided to challenge myself and register for the Disney Fairytale Challenge as part of the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – this was doing the 10K and Half Marathon (plus I did the 5K too). Me? Do a half marathon?? I spent the next months being anxious and worried, while still knowing I had it in me to complete it. And I did.

I was not fast, I cried about 5 times (happy cries), but I did it. I am now a half marathoner! The next set of races were the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend – celebrating races from runDisney past, including the fan favorite Expedition Everest 5K and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10 Miler.

I wanted to register for the Challenge and do all of the races, but in trying to get both my husband and I registered, I was shut out of the Challenge and the 5K. I was able to register both of us for the Race for the Taste 10K and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ 10 Miler. Closer to the races, I received an email from Enterprise, the official rental car of Walt Disney World, about partnering with them to cover the races and share my experiences on social media. Of course, it was an immediate YES from me, and what follows is my sponsored account of the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend Celebrates Yestermorrow.

As part of our partnership, Enterprise provided a rental car for me as well as a stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. I was very excited for both of these experiences. We started out by heading to the Car Care Center right near Magic Kingdom Park to pick up the Enterprise rental car. It was a seamless process, and it wasn’t just for me, the others getting their cars or dropping them back off were helped quickly and with minimal effort on the guests part. I picked up my super cool Dodge Challenger in bright orange and knew this was going to be a fun weekend.

We then headed over to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. It was again so easy to check-in, I just did it on the ‘My Disney Experience’ application on my phone and didn’t even need to stop at the front desk. We could head straight to the room and unlock our door with the app or a MagicBand. We were given a standard view room, but really lucked out as our view was of the area where some of the animals come at the end of the night, so we really saw so many animals right from our balcony! There were 6 giraffes we could see often, three or four zebras (including a cute younger one), some Ankole cattle, waterbuck, impala, crowned cranes, and more (including bunnies and squirrels which are just as exciting to me). It was so cool to wake up and see giraffes right outside.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of my favorite resorts in all of Walt Disney World Resort anyway, so I was so grateful and excited to get to spend 5 nights there. There are so many options for dining. The pool area is wonderful, and the rooms themselves were so peaceful and comfortable. When I first checked in, I had the balcony door open and was texting my friends that all I could hear was the gentle clicking of the bamboo trees in the distance. I was in heaven.

The next day, after breakfast at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, we set out to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. This is where you pick up all your bibs for the races, your race shirts, and you can also shop for fun merchandise from runDisney partners and official runDisney race weekend merchandise too. It was super easy to pop over in our Enterprise rental car and just park and head in. It’s a really fun way to start off every race weekend, because you are immediately surrounded by others who are doing the same thing you are, having fun, getting excited for the upcoming races, and of course taking photos at the many photo ops all around ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. We got our bibs and found out we were in Starting Group 2 for the 5K and the 10 Miler, but Starting Group 1 for the 10K. What luck! I’ve said before I’m not fast, so getting any extra time from being in a closer starting group is always a bonus that I appreciate greatly!

runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend 2022

After getting all of our race info and bibs, we headed back to the resort to just chill before the first race – a night race! The Expedition Everest 5K always took place at night in prior years, so they kept with that tradition, and it didn’t start until 10pm. This was my first ever night race, though many of my friends had done either this race or the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend races that took place at night previously. It was kind of strange being up so late and just waiting for the race to start. I’m still not sure if I prefer that to the early morning 2:30am wake-up calls of the other races I’ve done.

runDisney Springtime Surprise Race Recap:

Mother Nature had some other ideas about our nighttime race, and there was worry about rain and lightning. So, in an abundance of caution not only for the racers, but also the amazing volunteers working the course, the course was shortened for the 5K. The scavenger hunt, which was all digital on an app this year, was also postponed getting everyone to finish the race as soon as possible and reduce the risk of weather affecting things. The course had the last half a mile taken off, but by the time we walked to and from the start and finish line, we had all definitely done a 5K that night. Luckily, the rain held off and we didn’t get drenched, so that was a very good thing. It was so fun running through Pandora: World of Avatar at night, with the bioluminescence and all the background sounds of creatures of Pandora in the distance. I loved it.

The medal for the Expedition Everest 5K has always been a compass, so I was very excited to finally get one myself. It was truly one of the most fun 5K’s and unique ones as well. I would sign up again in a heartbeat!

The next day, we had a day of rest before the early morning race times began on Saturday. We hung around the hotel, had some pool time, and our family visited so we could all have dinner together from Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village, before we had to head to an early bedtime.

Saturday morning, we were up bright and early (well, not so bright, it was still very dark out at 2:30am). Having the Enterprise rental car meant we had a little more time to head over to EPCOT and park for the Race for the Taste 10K. My husband Scott and I headed into our starting group 1 and did some stretching before the race began. The runDisney crew always does an amazing job of hyping up the crowd at such an early hour, in rain or shine, cold or heat. This day, the humidity was at about 99% and it was like running through soup, but that didn’t stop the fun.

We saw so many fun characters along the course and seeing our friends racing along with us made it even more special. Having the runDisney PhotoPass photographers along the course ensures you’ll have some great memories of the race day and seeing the photos pop in on your app after the race is always a highlight.

Being locals, we aren’t the type to pack in non-stop theme park action during the race weekends. We can go to the parks most of the time, so we like to take the time to relax at our hotel and unwind between races during the runDisney weekends. Saturday night we took advantage of the delicious dining options at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and had some dinner to go from Victoria Falls Lounge and the Mara. It was an early night again as we waited for the 2:30 alarm to go off Sunday morning!

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ 10 Miler was the last race of the weekend, and all of my friends were in the same starting group as Scott and I, so it was a very fun morning as we laughed and got ready to race. Two of our friends ran the whole race, while my other one (Amanda, who got me into runDisney races to begin with) run/walked with us the whole way. The humidity was less savage this day, so it was a great race day.

The runDisney character stops and entertainment along the course was all themed to the Tower of Terror and 1939 (the year the elevator first dropped into the Twilight Zone). It was great fun. I had already done 13.1 miles in February, so I knew I could complete this 10-miler, and each race I ran a little more and walked a little less, so it was all a great feeling of accomplishment too. Unlike the other two races, we finished this one after sunrise, so we got to see the sun rise over EPCOT, after running through Disney’s Hollywood Studios and for the first time ever – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge! I will never forget those moments.

Finishing the final race with my husband and my friends was such a wonderful experience. The runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend Celebrates Yestermorrow was a success all around! We finished up our morning with a family breakfast at Boma in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge which has so many wonderful options for everyone to enjoy. After all the racing, we took a much-needed nap. Despite my lack of any real training, I was feeling great and ready to head over to a park and enjoy our last full day of this race weekend.

We popped over to EPCOT in our Enterprise rental car and enjoyed some of the delicious bites from the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, going on now through July 4. We ended our night watching Harmonious and wandering through Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts to check out the Easter egg displays before heading home for a good night’s sleep.

The next day, reality crept back in as we checked out, returned our rental car (super easy, we didn’t even have to go inside, we just handed them the keys and they said we were all set!) ,and headed home and back to work. I can’t thank Enterprise enough for really making this runDisney weekend an epic one with so many fun moments along the way, I’ll remember it for a very long time. I can’t wait for the next set of runDisney races – see you in November!

*Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of Enterprise.

I’d love to hear about your runDisney race experiences in the comments below!

2022 Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Easter Eggs Display

18 March 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

If you are a fan of the giant edible Easter Egg displays at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, you will love the display this year. Almost all the Easter eggs are brand new designs from the Grand Floridian chefs and absolutely breathtaking. Also new this year is a new place to buy treats, called “The Grand Cottage” located right in the middle of the lobby. We were in the area to grab a new vegan Baby Chick Cupcake and got some photos of the egg displays too to share with you all.

From Luca to Encanto, to Raya and the Last Dragon, to the Rescuers Down Under, there are so many amazing Easter eggs this year – even Captain America has joined in the Grand Floridian Easter Egg fun:

Which one of the Grand Floridian Easter Eggs is your favorite? I think the Piper egg from the Pixar short is so adorable! But, the fact that they turned Spaceship Earth into an Easter Egg with Figment on top? That may be the winner in my book. Huge thanks to the Grand Floridian Pastry Team for their hard work on these Easter Egg creations and sharing them with all of us!

Be sure to make a visit and see these yourself if you’re able and check out the treat for sale in the Grand Cottage as well! So many fun treats to enjoy while you take in the sights all around the Grand Floridian Resort lobby.

If you’d like to see the vegan Baby Chick Lemon Cupcake from the Grand Floridian, head to our sister site VeganDisneyFood.com.

7 Reasons to Love the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

12 May 2014 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

A little over a week ago, I was treated to a sneak peek at the newest attraction in New Fantasyland, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. I wanted to take some time to really put my feelings about this new gem into words, and share my thoughts with you. This much anticipated finishing touch on this new land was full of a contradictory mix of secrecy and hype for the last year or so. The Disney Parks Blog would tease us with Imagineer videos, ride vehicles and tiny tastes of what to expect with this next generation of hybrid dark ride and thrill ride, while keeping certain aspects behind walls and under wraps. But would this experience live up to its hype? Would the wait be worth it? And will the standby queue be worth it? My answer to all of those questions is a resounding heigh ho! And here’s 7 reasons why:

1. An Immersive Experience – And no, I don’t mean immersive queues, although this attraction does have a cool one. What I mean is themed lands, which take you out of the “hey, I’m in a theme park in Orlando” experience, and put you in a “wow, I’m in the middle of a fairy tale kingdom with mountains and forests and castles!” New Fantasyland has done that incredibly well, from walking in to an old timey circus with animal prints and peanut shells embedded into the ground, to a Provincial village with a castle looming above a mountain, to a beautiful little town square (that just happens to house some restrooms too). Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has given this new land depth, character and, yes, story. Now when you walk through the castle walls, you see the mountain, but not what’s within it. You are treated to foliage, sounds of wildlife, waterfalls, and the faint melody of miners singing a familiar tune in the distance. You are transported and have left the other lands of the Magic Kingdom behind.

2. Family Friendly Ride – I think many of us were wondering just how family friendly this attraction was going to be…Barnstormer? Big Thunder? What about the inside? What was going to happen in there? Well, I was really surprised by the ride itself. It starts off with an instant thrill, but it’s not too too fast, and the drops are not really steep or high. It is, in a word, fun. It makes you laugh, it makes you look around at all of the wonderful scenery, and it makes you want to ride again. The height requirement is only 38″, so it is on par with the “first coaster” that many little ones can experience. Depending on where you sit, it can be more thrilling or tame, but it’s not as fast or as “scary” as Big Thunder Mountain for those who consider that attraction scary.

3. A Million Diamond Mine! Even though the two couldn’t be more dissimilar, when we first traveled inside the mine, my mind instantly went to Radiator Springs Racers out at Disney California Adventure. It’s just jaw-dropping to see all of this beauty, hidden within the mountain. The animatronics are unique and incredibly movie-like, the colors and the lights of the gems are just overwhelmingly pretty. You’ll be singing along, and not wanting to leave the mine.

4. A Different Ride Every Time – Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has a very high re-ride-ability factor. Mainly because, like most coasters, you have a different experience depending on whether you sit in the front, middle, or back section of the train. Other factors include how many people (and how heavy they are) are riding with you. When we first rode, it was pretty much solo, which didn’t do much for the swinging carts, or even the speed of the train. Later, we rode with a full car and the swinging carts was much more noticeable (but nowhere near the movement indicated in the cgi preview videos from back at the D23 Expo) and the train went much faster around curves. It felt like a completely different ride. And, much like riding Big Thunder at night, the experience on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at night is a whole other animal. Seeing the views of both Cinderella and Beast’s Castles at dusk and then at night are spectacular. And the final scene of the ride is much more visible at night too, so make sure you ride at different times of the day to choose your favorite.

5. Views Unseen Since the Skyway – Speaking of views, when was the last time we were able to see this side of Cinderella Castle from up this high? Yep, way back when the Skyway was running (one of my most beloved and missed attractions!). So I am thrilled to be able to see views like this again, even if it’s briefly before a drop on a roller coaster. The views over to Beast’s Castle are equally beautiful, and riding by a waterfall and then high on a straight bridge as if we are the dwarfs marching home, is such an enjoyable experience, it just makes you grin from ear to ear.

6. Interactive Queue – I mentioned above how Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has one, and it’s quite fun. Not quite as big as some of the other interactive queues in Magic Kingdom, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has the benefit of being under cover of shade, which will be ideal in the middle of summer (or spring, or fall or winter for that matter!). There’s a little something for everyone here, and you can stay as long as you like before moving on to the last part of the queue.

7. Seven Dwarfs Love – One of the enduring take-aways from the Mine Train event was the simple fact that Disney -as a company, and we – as guests, are celebrating, honoring, and shining a light on Walt Disney’s first animated feature film, Snow White, 77 years later. That’s pretty spectacular when you think about it. A testament to the art and artistry found within the film, combined with the newest Imagineering designs and technologies. What a wonderful thing. While at the party that night – all the dwarfs were out for photos, and as I stopped to take photos with some of them, I really got a new appreciation for their individual personalities. It can sometimes be easy to discount older characters, or ones we see on t-shirts all the time. But when you really stop and think about it, we can all relate to one or two dwarfs, and they really do stand the test of time. I left for the evening with a new love for both the Seven Dwarfs as individual characters and Snow White as a movie. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a love letter to that film and its magic.

So to sum up, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a definite hit. It took a bit to grow on me as a ride, but once I experienced it at night, it won me over. The ride is smooth (you can barely hear the trains zooming by), swift, and beautiful with details everywhere and surprises around each turn. Whether young or old, it will be an instant must-do.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train will officially open on May 28, but with cast members riding this week, I’m sure soft openings are just around the corner. If you’re visiting the Magic Kingdom this week, I’d keep checking!

Here’s my video of the full dedication ceremony:

Disclosure: As mentioned at the start, I was invited by Disney to preview this attraction. I was provided with special access to the attraction but my opinions and words are my own. All images within this post are ©Disney

Walt Disney World’s Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Preview

28 April 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it’s off to the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train we go! The long-anticipated final jewel (pun intended) in the New Fantasyland crown is about to be complete. Local, national and international media and travel professionals will be descending on the Walt Disney World Resort in just a few days, to learn all they can about this new family roller coaster, as well as other news and updates from around the resort. Some of the other topics we may hear about include the latest updates to the My Magic+ system and Magic Bands plus what’s coming up this summer at WDW.

I’ve made a choice not to share too much of the attraction as it has been revealed. I know I will be wowed when I ride for the first time, and want you all to have that same experience first hand. With all of the whirlwind of activities coming up starting this Wednesday night, I thought it would be a good idea to have a landing page where you can find all of the updates from the events, and where to follow along with me. Feel free to add me at the following outlets if you don’t already:

Twitter: @zannaland – here is where my main updating will happen. It’s easiest for me to tweet news and tidbits, retweet other folks who are at the event or official accounts, and it’s also where all of my instagrams will be shared.

Instagram: @zannaland – this is the easiest (and most fun) way for me to share photos and short videos with you all. All instagrams will be shared to twitter and my facebook page as well.

facebook: zannaland – as above, all of my instagrams will be shared here, as well as future blog posts and videos from the events.

YouTube: zannaland – Any videos from the opening will be posted here

Check back here for updates, photos and more – and feel free to share, RT, like, or otherwise share the love that you see here! ♥

See you in the Mine!

Disney’s California Grill Re-opens With a Delicious Flair

8 September 2013 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

A flair of Mary Blair that is. Cheap rhyme aside, I was so pleasantly surprised by the newly re-imagined California Grill, which pays tribute to the art and artistry of Disney Legend Mary Blair, famous for the Grand Canyon Concourse mosaics found within Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The color scheme on the upholstery, carpets, art and more all honor the original colors found when the Contemporary first opened. It is a wonderful mix of mid-century modern aesthetics, with sleek state-of-the art accompaniments found throughout the restaurant.

The now floor-to-ceiling windows offer even more incredible views than before, streaming in light from all around. On the night we arrived, a thunderstorm had just ended, providing an incredible rainbow right over the resort. When we got upstairs, we could see not only the gorgeous sunset but also the storm in the distance; an unrivaled panorama of Walt Disney World Resort scenery.

Mixed in with the regular tables and booths are now long tables which seat 10 over on one side of the restaurant. There is also seating at the bar, where a special sushi menu is offered for guests seated at that location. The private rooms are also still available as well and offer even more tributes to Mary Blair with reproductions of her artwork. I just can’t express enough how wonderful it is to see Mary Blair and her work in such a special location.

New color schemes at California Grill are a tribute to the original Contemporary Resort

The food we sampled was incredible, from the Pacific halibut with parsnip silk, roasted heirloom beets, arugula, macadamia vinaigrette and beet syrup, to updates of longtime favorites, such as Pork Two Ways, now grilled tenderloin and lacquered pork belly with goat cheese polenta and mushrooms – my favorite! The oak-fired filet of beef is served with heirloom tomato risotto, marinated baby vine tomatoes and basil was just perfect. Sonoma goat cheese ravioli returns in a tomato fennel broth with crispy shiitake mushrooms.

And don’t forget the sushi! The Grill’s popular sushi menu expands with a 12-course omakase menu that includes a tasting of the restaurant’s freshest ingredients (not just fish and seafood). Omakase means “to entrust,” and there’s no menu. “You just let the chef prepare fresh sushi dishes for you, perfect for sushi fans who want to try new tastes,” says Executive Chef Brian Piasecki. The menu might include ama ebi (sweet shrimp) tempura, lobster sashimi, crunchy Japanese bone marrow with sesame beef tartare and red onion marmalade, and spicy-crusted oysters.

I cannot wait to get back and try full-size portions of some of these, at which time I’ll offer a full review of my experience. The mix of side items and the presentation really live up to California Grill’s existing reputation – and surpass it. This will now be a must-visit for a special occasion dining experience, date night, or just a wonderful gourmet meal. While I love trying new things, I’m not a food reviewer, and certainly didn’t have the old California Grill menu memorized, so for a ‘first-timer’ so to speak, I was really satisfied and impressed with what I tried. Hopefully based on the photos below and descriptions of ingredients above, you can decide if the California Grill will work for you and your guests. Dessert descriptions are listed in the gallery below.

The wall of wine immediately catches your eye when you step off the elevator; 1600 bottles on display, with 250 wines on the list, 80 by the glass. There also are 10 varieties of sake, eight kinds of craft beers and ciders, and signature cocktails created just for California Grill, such as the sake martini, which I sampled and really enjoyed. I am not usually a fan of sake on its own, but this was a light, sweet, tropical drink and a great way to enjoy sake.

For more scenes from the new California Grill, see the gallery below, and click to enlarge any photos:

California Grill desserts — A sampling of the desserts – clockwise from top left, the lemon meringe, which was like a cheesecake consistency with a nice shortbread crust and hardened meringue topper, the strawberry basil sundae is part of the trio pictured below, then the chocolate pudding cake described a few photos down, the banana fritters with house-made marshmallow and caramel. This was really unique, like fried banana bread, dense and moist with a nice caramel complement, and the caramel corn pot is also part of the trio in the next photo.

Sunday Sampler — California Grill Sundae Sampler: caramel corn, Coca-Cola float, and strawberry and basil.(Jimmy DeFlippo, photographer)

Wishes from California Grill — Wishes from the California Grill viewing platform

The refurbished California Grill has instantly become my favorite new spot in all of Walt Disney World. Perfect views and ambiance, wonderful Mary Blair touches for Disney fans to appreciate, and wonderful food to complement the entire experience. Truly a jewel in the Walt Disney World crown. I hope to get back sooner than later! Speaking of, reservations are now available (if you can find any) to book at 407-WDW-DINE, online or using the My Disney Experience app.

What do you think of the new look?

Disclaimer: I was invited to preview the new California Grill and its food at a press event. I was not asked or required to post in any way and my opinions above are my own. It’s just THAT good!

Disney Exclusive Cosmetic Line-Beautifully Disney to Debut March 2

21 February 2013 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

With the incredible success of Disney’s past make-up partnerships – the Villains collection, various Urban Decay sets like the new Oz eyeshadow sets, and the Disney Princesses cosmetics collections, currently available at Sephora, Disney has now created its very own line, exclusive to Disney Parks. In the same vein as the extremely popular designer handbag lines – Disney Dooney & Bourke, LeSportsac and Harvey’s bags, I think this make-up line is going to be a huge hit – “coordinating cosmetic bags and beauty tools”?! sign me up! I know I can’t wait to see it in person – we’ll update you when Beautifully Disney appears!

Here’s the official word from Disney: Beautifully Disney, a new collection of cosmetics and beauty products for women, is coming exclusively to Disney Parks. The character inspired collection is the first of its kind for Disney Parks and has been developed to evoke the spirit, beauty, and fantasy of all things Disney. Beautifully Disney provides a rich color collection for lip, eyes, and nail at an exceptional quality level. Through character and storytelling on the cosmetic packaging, Disney Parks guests will be able to choose from their favorite films and characters in various moods. The range will provide a broad expanse of classic colors as well as some fashion forward trend colors that are complementary to the spectrum of skin tones. Coordinating cosmetic bags and beauty tools will round out the initial Beautifully Disney offering to create a truly immersive beauty statement. Beautifully Disney will be available this spring at select retail locations including Tren-D at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. and Disney Vault 28 at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Ca.

Festival of the Masters 2012 Photo Tour

11 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

John Coulter's artwork for Festival of the Masters — John Coulter’s artwork for Festival of the Masters

The action never stops at Walt Disney World Resort and just when the Halloween events have ended and the International Food and Wine Festival is winding down, the Festival of the Masters shines on the second weekend in November, bringing artists and craftsmen from around the world to Downtown Disney to share their talents. Sponsored by Michaels stores, the Festival of the Masters offers something for everyone, from kids and family crafts, to fine art displays and sales. It is a great way to discover some new favorite artists and see the talent that lies behind Disney’s amazing Cast Members as well.

The Disney art section is always my favorite, with fabulous artists like Will Gay, Noah, Katie Kelly, and so many more, sharing their hard work and interpretation of Disney classics. Be sure to check out the LEGO booths, which offer a chance to create a mosaic tile which becomes part of a larger LEGO mural. There are other interactive stops stretching all across Downtown Disney from the West Side to the Marketplace. Chalk drawings, artist signings and more await. Here are some photo highlights – click any photo to view as a slideshow:

Custom Vinylmation at Festival of the Masters

Patriotic Mickey Festival of the Masters — Patriotic Mickey at Festival of the Masters

Fesitval of the Masters Disney art by Greg Trombo

John Coulter art Festival of the Masters

Katie Kelly's artwork for Festival of the Masters — Katie Kelly’s artwork for Festival of the Masters

Will Gay decks at Festival of the Masters

Will Gay's artwork for Festival of the Masters — Will Gay’s artwork for Festival of the Masters

Festival of the Masters artist signing schedule

Graham Knuttel's sheep sculptures — Graham Knuttel’s sheep sculptures

Graham Knuttel painting at Raglan Road — Graham Knuttel painting sheep at Raglan Road

Festival of the Masters special cupcakes

Ghirardelli craft Festival of the Masters

Lego Mosaic — Gio showing off his Lego mosaic piece

Michaels Duct Tape Craft Festival of the Masters

Michaels frame craft Festival of the Masters

Michaels mosaic Mickey at the Festival of the Masters

Disney’s Festival of the Masters presented by Michaels wraps up today at 5pm, so if you are in the area, stroll on over and get your art on!

STAY COOL WEEK: Best Pools in Walt Disney World Resort

10 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

It’s day two of Stay Cool Week here on Zannaland and I thought for the ultimate cool-down we’d take a dip in some of my favorite pools on Walt Disney World property. Of course these are just my personal preferences and as different as they all are, it’s really hard to pick a number one favorite. I managed to narrow it down to a Top 5 , however:

5. Port Orleans Resort – I’m kind of cheating a bit from the start because I’m putting Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter together. I love French Quarter’s fabulous sea serpent water slide, complete with King Neptune riding atop the serpent’s head. I remember staying there when the resort first opened and just being amazed by the slide and never wanting to leave. Riverside’s main feature pool, Ol’ Man Island, boasts a swimmingly good time for all. I love the shade that surrounds this pool and the water falls and sprays from rustic beams and found items, like an old kitchen sink.

4. Coronado Springs Resort – The Dig Site is one of my favorites because of its size. It’s easy to feel over-crowded in some resort pools, but here there is enough space to spread out and enjoy. A fun slide and the beautiful Mayan pyramid-themed waterfall serve as a scenic backdrop. The Dig Site also boats one of the biggest hot tubs I’ve ever seen, if that’s more your style for relaxing. I love that the playground area is right around the corner, so it’s easy to go from playing to pooling. If you get there before the water slide opens, there’s a fun little ceremony the cast members perform with the kids on-hand too.

Disney's Coronado Springs pool — The Dig Site – ©Disney

3. Caribbean Beach Resort – The main pool here is located at Old Port Royale and themed to a Spanish fortress. This is definitely one of the most fun pools for kids (and adults) to explore, complete with pirate cannons and two water slides. For the little ones under 48 inches tall, there is even a kids play area with hoses to squirt, a giant bucket which fills with water and pours down, and 3 smaller water slides. The lush greenery and lakes of the Caribbean Beach Resort surround you and hammocks and shady spots are only a few steps away if you’d like a break from the water.

Disney's Caribbean Beach pool — Caribbean Beach Resort pool, themed after a fictional Spanish fortress, called Fuentes del Morro. ©Disney

2. Wilderness Lodge – Silver Creek Springs pool is one of my absolute favorites because of its location and surroundings. The majestic Wilderness Lodge was modeled after the the Old Faithful Inn which opened in Wyoming in 1904. The bubbling “hot spring” in the back of the lobby creates an amazing egress to the pool area at the edge of Bay Lake. The water flows outside from the lobby and over a rocky waterfall where it then becomes part of the pool. Add a water slide, breathtaking views of Fire Rock geyser, which erupts like clockwork on the hour, with Bay Lake behind it, and you have one my favorite pools to truly relax and feel at one with nature.

Disney's Wilderness Lodge — The beautiful Wilderness Lodge grounds. ©Disney

1. Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club Resorts – This has been my favorite pool since first staying at the Beach Club after it opened. Sand on the bottom of a pool? Years later and I still think that’s one of the coolest things ever. Nooks and crannies, a whirlpool to get swept up in the current, a ship-wreck-themed water slide tunnel, and a built-in lazy river, and you pretty much have pool perfection. It’s no secret that this is the most popular pool on property and with good reason. There is something for everyone to enjoy and I could literally spend all day floating and splashing around.

Did I mention your favorite Walt Disney World pool? Which ones top your list? Check back tomorrow for more Stay Cool Week!

Fourth of July Festivities and Fireworks at Walt Disney World Resort

4 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

JULY 4TH CELEBRATED AT WALT DISNEY WORLD IN FLORIDA — Cinderella Castle with patriotic projections ©Disney

Here are all the official events going on at Disney Parks here in Florida tonight! For the first time ever, I’ll actually be attending Fourth of July activities at Epcot. I know it’ll be super busy, but it should be super fun too. The last time I was in a Disney park on the Fourth, I was working at the Magic Kingdom in 1995, so it’ll be nice to experience again, on the opposite side of the coin. I wish you all a wonderful patriotic day with family and friends! Enjoy good food and spectacular fireworks as we celebrate our freedom!

Walt Disney World Resort will pixie dust the night skies July 4 with special pyrotechnic shows, including a patriotic display at Magic Kingdom, a rock’n’roll spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a classic sky show at Epcot infused with an Independence Day finale. Here’s how you can celebrate America’s birthday – Disney-style:

Magic Kingdom will present “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.” This patriotic fireworks spectacular, paying homage to the hopes and dreams of America’s forefathers, will light the skies at 9 p.m. July 4 – and for guests who would like to begin the Independence Day celebration early, the show also will be presented July 3 at 9 p.m.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, traditional Fourth of July fireworks take on a different spin when Mulch, Sweat, and Shears perform for the all-new “Rockin’ 4^th of July Celebration.” These resident landscapers – with serious rock and roll ambitions – take Disney guests on a musical road trip across America that will highlight each region’s contribution to rock and roll. Fireworks, lighting and special effects – backed by the driving live rock and roll of Mulch, Sweat, and Shears – combine to bring a new twist to celebrating Independence Day. Showtime July 4 is 9:45 p.m. Before the show, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests can catch Disney’s Fantasmic!, performing July 4 at 9 p.m.
At Epcot, sky-watchers can check out “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” bursting high above World Showcase Lagoon. IllumiNations is a 14-minute spectacular during which pyrotechnics, lasers, water and music are all used to tell a story about the past, present and future of our planet. On the Fourth of July, the show will be enhanced with “The Heartbeat of Freedom,” an overture of traditional Americana themes displayed in a pyrotechnic and laser light event. The show is at 10 p.m.

In addition, Epcot guests may lend their ears to “Voices of Liberty 4^th of July Concert” and meet with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress at American Adventure.

Theme park hours on July 4 (subject to change without notice): Magic Kingdom, 8 a.m.-1 a.m.; Epcot, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Celebrate Father’s Day at the Swan and Dolphin Hotels

11 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

In honor of Father’s Day, guests can receive a special rate and complimentary room upgrade during Father’s Day Weekend

I’ve stayed at the Walt Disney World Dolphin a few times, and dined there and the Swan and loved it each time. The “Heavenly beds” live up to their name and there is a feel of ultimate luxury when you walk in the lobby. The Swan and Dolphin are now offering a deal for dads for the upcoming Father’s Day weekend – check out the details below:

Families looking to give dad the vacation he deserves can now do so with a special Father’s Day offer from the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel. For the weekend of June 15-17, guests can receive rooms starting at $199 per night and a complimentary room upgrade at the Orlando hotel.

Located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel offers easy access for dads to spend time with their families in the Disney theme parks, unwind on one of the four championship golf courses or drive an exotic sports car at the Richard Petty Driving Experience.

In addition, the hotel itself offers a number of amenities and activities that will appeal to dad and the entire family including five pools, recreational activities, and numerous dining options such as Shula’s Steak House and character dining.

Reservations can be made online at www.swandolphin.com/offers or by calling 1-800-227-1500 and mentioning “Father.” Based on rate schedule availability. Offer is valid for stays June 15-17. Taxes, resort services fee and gratuities not included. Not valid with any other special offers, promotions, or for existing reservations or groups.

In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot andDisney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. Guests can discover 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds and the luxurious Mandara Spa. The hotel features five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, complimentary transportation throughout the Walt Disney World Resort and the Extra Magic Hours benefit, where each day, one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks is open extra time to enjoy select attractions. (Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required). The hotel can be reached at 800-227-1500, www.swandolphin.com or through Facebook at www.facebook.com/swananddolphin.