By Happily Ever After Hours

Welcome back to your weekly roundup of what’s happening around Walt Disney World. From seasonal events to new perks and planning tips, here’s everything you need to know this week.

---

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Dates and Details

Disney has officially announced that Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will return to Magic Kingdom from August 15 through October 31, 2025. Highlights this year include:

• A refreshed character appearance for Jack Skellington, featuring a more screen-accurate design.
• Ticket prices ranging from $119 to $229, depending on the date.
• Discounts available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members.

This after-hours event remains one of Disney’s most popular, with exclusive parades, fireworks, and trick-or-treating throughout the park.

---

EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Dates Announced

Disney has released the dates for the 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, running from July 11 to November 18, 2025. This fan-favorite event will feature global marketplaces, culinary demonstrations, live entertainment, and merchandise tied to the festival theme.

While Disney has yet to reveal the full list of booths or menus, the early start date gives guests plenty of opportunity to plan a visit during the festival window. Expect crowd levels to increase on weekends and during late September and October.

---

Complimentary Water Park Access for Resort Guests

Beginning May 21, guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels will receive free same-day admission to either Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach on their check-in day. This is the first time in years that both water parks will operate simultaneously, making it a great arrival-day option for families looking to ease into the trip without burning a park ticket.

---

Blippi Heads to Disney World

A new collaboration between Disney and the children’s character Blippi launches this week. Blippi’s Colorful Day at Walt Disney World debuts May 15 and will follow Blippi and Meekah as they explore Magic Kingdom and interact with characters, attractions, and themed snacks. The partnership is expected to introduce young fans to Disney experiences in a playful and educational way.

---

Disney Week of Wishes Recap

From April 26 through May 2, Disney and Make-A-Wish celebrated the first-ever Disney Week of Wishes, treating children with critical illnesses to personalized experiences across the parks. Activities included royal costume makeovers, VIP character meet-and-greets, and surprise moments with cast members and characters. It was a powerful showcase of Disney’s long-standing relationship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

---

Summer Ticket and Hotel Discounts Now Available

Families planning summer visits can take advantage of two seasonal promotions:

• Up to 50% off children’s tickets between May 27 and September 20
• Up to 30% off select resort hotels for stays from August 1 to October 11

These offers are limited and subject to availability. Guests are encouraged to book early to lock in the best rates.

---

Planning a Disney Trip? Work with Chelsea and Jen

There’s no need to figure it all out on your own—our expert Disney travel planners, Chelsea and Jen, are ready to help you make the most of every moment (and every dollar) of your vacation. Whether you’re planning your first visit, a family celebration, or a last-minute getaway, they can take care of the reservations, itineraries, Genie+ strategies, dining, and more.

Want to take advantage of those summer deals? Looking ahead to Food & Wine or holiday events? Now is the perfect time to get started.

Reach out to book a consultation or let them build your custom Disney vacation plan today.

Final Thoughts

As we move closer to summer, Disney is packing in the perks—between resort discounts, special events, and the return of popular seasonal offerings, now is a great time to plan your next visit. Whether you’re dreaming of Food & Wine tastings, Halloween fun, or just a relaxing family getaway, there’s plenty of magic to work with.

Need help putting together a trip that fits your budget, schedule, and wishlist? Chelsea and Jen are ready to help. Their expert guidance takes the stress out of planning, so you can focus on making memories.

We’ll be back next week with the latest Disney updates, tips, and insights from the parks. Until then, happy planning—and as always, we’re here to help you make every hour a little more magical.