This week, I’ve got news for you about a new Star Wars fireworks dining package available at Disneyland, a new app for Maui from MouseWait, special photo opportunities for Disney Visa cardholders, plus learn about the fascinating history behind Tahitian Terrace. Let’s get into this week’s edition of your favorite feel-good Disney Parks newsletter!
Thanks to redsoxcarlos for the real-time pics in the Lounge! See more real-time pics and post your pics here!
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Last week, we launched RV Camping Chat and this week Jack launched our latest city app: Maui Top Five!
One subscription, no matter where you purchase, unlocks Ad-free premium versions of ALL our apps + MORE!
Here’s the list and it’s growing weekly:
MouseWait for Disneyland, MouseWait for Disney World, Fort Wilderness, Knott’s Berry Farm, Magic Mountain, Universal Studios Hollywood, SeaWorld San Diego, Universal Studios Orlando, Sea World Orlando, Busch Gardens, Nashville, Bible Chat: The Encourager, Puppy Chat, RV Camping Chat, Maui Top Five
IN PROGRESS: Dollywood, Cedar Point Ohio, lounge.land, Elder Defender, and more!
✅ UPDATED: Disneyland + Disney World Recipe Generator: take a pic of your food, or screenshot food from our Lounge, get a Disney-inspired recipe. We updated the backend on this tool and it works much better now!
✅ Curated Daily Report with LINKS! enter your preferences, we read the news for you, then you get a customized daily report! Check out the video here!
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If you have any suggestions for new apps, please reply and let me know!
Disneyland Resort News:
Surprise, surprise! Disney restaurants are changing their menus again, and we’ve got all the delicious details for you. From the return of fan-favorite snacks to exciting new additions, you won’t want to miss out on these tasty updates! 🍔🍕
Halloween Time has crept into the Disneyland Resort, and the parks are looking spookier than ever! From pumpkins galore on Main Street to the return of the Haunted Mansion Holiday, you won’t want to miss all the not-so-scary fun. 🎃👻 And don’t forget to check out the whimsical Halloween decorations in Cars Land – it’s a real scream!
Disney Visa Cardmembers, simply present your Disney Visa Card in Hollywood Land, near Stage 17, at Disney California Adventure between 3PM and 6PM for access to a private Heroic Encounter Photo Opportunity. This opportunity is available daily. You can also view this experience in the Disneyland app for more details.
Plus, Disney Vacation Club members can look forward to even more special after-hours events in 2025. Treat yourself to some extra magic during your visit! 💳✨
Attention, Star Wars fans! A brand-new fireworks dining experience is coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and it’s sure to be out-of-this-world! A new dining package will be available at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo that will provide guests with select bits and sips, along with viewing of the nighttime fireworks spectacular. Indulge in delicious galactic eats while enjoying an epic view of the nighttime spectacular. 🌌🍽️
Get ready to be amazed! Disney and Make-A-Wish have granted some truly special Star Wars wishes in the most incredible way. These heartwarming stories are sure to inspire you. 💫✨
You can get news updates like these, customized to your preferences, anytime in the MouseWait App. Check out the video here and become an ALL-ACCESS or better-yet a Club 333 Founding Member here!
Disney World Resort News:
Foodies, rejoice! We’ve got the scoop on the latest menu updates at 58 Disney restaurants, including the return of beloved snacks. And for those seeking a new favorite, check out these 6 delightful new Disney snacks that will have you booking your next trip! 🍔🍕
Attention, Disney fans! Reservations are now open for an exclusive event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Celebrate the Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby – a must-do for any Disney enthusiast! 🎉🎄
Ever wonder what really goes on behind the scenes at Disney World? Former Cast Members are spilling the beans on 5 fascinating Disney ride secrets you won’t find in the guidebooks. 🤫🔍
Stay up-to-date on the latest Disney happenings with these must-know updates: 2 Disney World rides will be closed this week, and a popular Disney World hotel restaurant is temporarily closing for refurbishment soon. 🎢🍽️
Surprise, surprise! Disney restaurants are changing their menus again, and we’ve got all the delicious details for you. From the return of fan-favorite snacks to exciting new additions, you won’t want to miss out on these tasty updates! 🍔🍕
Weekly Disneyland Resort Crowd Report
Week of September 18-24:
This week offers excellent opportunities for low crowds. September is generally one of the least crowded months at Disneyland Resort. The Halloween season will be in full swing, providing festive atmosphere without peak crowds. Weekdays are particularly favorable for visiting.
Week of September 25-October 1:
Continuing the trend from the previous week, crowds remain relatively low. The Halloween season continues, making this an ideal time to enjoy seasonal offerings without excessive wait times. Weekdays are recommended for the best experience.
Week of October 2-8:
Crowd levels may start to increase slightly as we move further into October. However, this week still offers good visiting conditions, especially early in the week. The Halloween season remains a draw, but crowds are manageable.
Week of October 9-15:
Expect a moderate increase in crowds as we approach mid-October. Some schools may have fall breaks during this time, leading to higher attendance. Weekdays are still preferable to weekends.
Week of October 16-22:
Crowd levels continue to rise as we get closer to Halloween. This week may see higher attendance due to school breaks and the popularity of the Halloween season. Plan for longer wait times, especially on weekends.
Week of October 23-29:
This week is likely to be very busy as it leads up to Halloween. Expect peak Halloween season crowds, particularly on the weekend. If visiting this week, arrive early and utilize planning strategies to maximize your time.
Week of October 30-November 5:
The first few days of this week will still see high crowds due to Halloween (October 31). However, crowd levels may decrease slightly after Halloween as the park transitions to the holiday season. The latter part of the week could offer a brief window of lower crowds.
Week of November 6-12:
This week presents a good opportunity for visiting. The holiday season will be starting, but crowds are typically manageable in early November. Veterans Day (November 11) may cause a slight increase in attendance towards the end of the week.
Week of November 13-19:
Crowd levels remain moderate this week. The holiday season will be in full swing, offering festive experiences without the peak crowds of later in the season. Weekdays are recommended for the best experience.
Week of November 20-26:
Expect a significant increase in crowds as we approach Thanksgiving (November 28). The latter part of this week will be extremely busy due to the holiday and the popularity of visiting during this time. If possible, visit early in the week to avoid peak crowds.
Week of November 27-30:
The days following Thanksgiving are typically very busy at Disneyland Resort. Expect high crowd levels and longer wait times as many families extend their holiday vacations through the weekend.
Key Events Affecting Crowds:
- Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort (August 23 – October 31)
- Start of Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (mid-November – early January)
- Veterans Day weekend (November 8-11)
- Thanksgiving and surrounding days (November 28 and adjacent dates)
Best Weeks to Visit:
- September 18-24
- September 25-October 1
- November 6-12
These weeks offer the best combination of seasonal events and lower crowd levels. Early September provides the opportunity to enjoy Halloween festivities with minimal crowds, while early November offers a chance to experience the start of the holiday season before peak crowds arrive.
Check out our real-time MouseWait Crowd Index in the MouseWait App!
Weekly Walt Disney World Resort Crowd Report
The period from September 18 to November 30, 2024, offers several excellent opportunities for visiting Walt Disney World Resort, with varying crowd levels and special events. This report highlights the best weeks to visit and potential high-crowd periods.
Best Weeks to Visit:
September 24-26, 2024
- Light crowds
- EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival ongoing
- Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom (select nights)
October 1-10, 2024
- Low to moderate crowds
- EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival ongoing
- Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom (select nights)
November 4-6, 2024
- Moderate crowds before Veterans Day weekend
- EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival (final days)
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom begins (select nights)
November 12-22, 2024
- Moderate crowds between holidays
- EPCOT Festival of the Holidays begins (estimated start date)
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom (select nights)
Events and High-Crowd Periods to Note:
September 20-23, 2024
- Light to moderate crowds return for a few days
September 27-30, 2024
- Moderate crowds as Fall Break season begins
October 11-14, 2024 (Columbus Day Weekend)
- Higher crowds expected
October 31 – November 3, 2024
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
- Heavy crowds expected
November 7-11, 2024
- Veterans Day weekend
- Heavy crowds expected
November 23-30, 2024
- Thanksgiving week and weekend
- Peak holiday crowds
Additional Notes:
- EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival runs through November 23, 2024
- Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party takes place on select nights through October
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins in early November on select nights
- Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starts in early November (select nights)
- Weather gradually improves throughout this period, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity by late November
- Conclusion:
Check out our real-time MouseWait Crowd Index in the MouseWait App!
Updates from the Lounge
Brighten your day with a grand circle tour through the MouseWait Lounge! You’ll find incredible posts like the ones below.
Upcoming Events at Disneyland & Disney World
Here is our updated list of upcoming events and refurbishments for both Disneyland and Disney World:
For a larger view, visit this page. You can also access it from the “Home” tab of the MouseWait for Disneyland and Disney World.
And now, let’s take a look at Walt Disney World:
Check our our Amazon Disney Store here (MouseWait benefits from your purchases)
Your Weekly Disneyland Resort Food Report (NEW!)
New Offerings
- Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month Foodie Guide (September 15 – October 15):
- The Boathouse: Try the Yellow Tail Ceviche and The Boathouse Paloma cocktail.
- The Daily Poutine: Don’t miss the new Pastelón Poutine.
- The Polite Pig: Sample the Pulled Pork Arepa and Oaxacan Old Fashioned.
- Halloween Treats (Available now through October 31):
- Fantasyland Garlic Cheesy Brat at Edelweiss Snacks ($12.99): A must-try savory item.
- Graveyard Banana Funnel Cake at Stage Door Café ($9.99): Perfect for sharing.
- Jack-O’-Lantern Mickey Pumpkin Macaron at Jolly Holiday Bakery ($8.29): Ideal for Instagram-worthy photos.
Best Things to Eat
- Asian-inspired Spicy Pork Tacos at Studio Catering Co. & Hollywood Lounge: Highly recommended for its tender, flavorful pork and tangy slaw.
- Peanut Butter-Chocolate Churro at Cozy Cone Motel 1: A perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
- Autumnal Harvest Flatbread at Red Rose Taverne ($13.99): A seasonal favorite featuring roasted butternut squash and mushrooms.
New to Try
- Peanut Butter Cold Brew at Cappuccino Cart: Available in mocktail and cocktail versions.
- Spicy Beef and Mozzarella Corn Dog at Corn Dog Castle ($11.79): A unique twist on the classic corn dog.
- Hazelnut Brownie Tart at Jolly Holiday Bakery ($5.49): Described as an “adult PopTart”.
VOYAGEERS: Finding Hidden Treasures in the Parks
Images courtesy of Parkendium
The Enchanting Origins of Disneyland’s Tahitian Terrace
In June 1962, Disneyland unveiled a tropical paradise within its Adventureland section – the Tahitian Terrace. This Polynesian-themed restaurant was more than just a dining establishment; it was a gateway to the exotic islands of the South Pacific, offering guests a unique blend of culinary delights and captivating entertainment.
Walt Disney’s Vision
Walt Disney played a crucial role in the creation of the Tahitian Terrace. His vision for the restaurant was born out of the immense popularity of the Enchanted Tiki Room, which had become a headliner attraction in Adventureland. Walt saw an opportunity to capitalize on guests’ fascination with Polynesian culture and expand the immersive experience of Adventureland.
Unrelated, but I thought this pic of Walt and the family at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel was awesome!
During the construction of the Tahitian Terrace, Walt’s attention to detail and problem-solving skills came to the forefront. When presented with a man-made tree that was too short for the backdrop of the small stage, Walt proposed a simple yet ingenious solution. He suggested slicing the tree horizontally in the center, lifting the top, and adding more cement trunk to increase its height. This practical approach demonstrated Walt’s ability to think outside the box and his hands-on involvement in the park’s development.
A Tropical Oasis
The Tahitian Terrace was designed to transport guests to a lush Polynesian setting. Diners were seated beneath a massive 35-foot artificial tree with handcrafted leaves and flower blossoms, creating a canopy of perpetual bloom. The restaurant’s ambiance was further enhanced by colorful flowers and a stunning view overlooking the Jungle Cruise waterway.
Culinary Delights and Spectacular Entertainment
The Tahitian Terrace offered a menu inspired by the South Pacific, featuring exotic dishes such as sizzling teriyaki steak, savory shrimp tempura, and raisin ice cream topped with flaming caramel sauce. The signature non-alcoholic drink, Planter’s Punch, was served in a tall frosted glass adorned with a faux flower.
What truly set the Tahitian Terrace apart was its dinner show. As guests dined, they were treated to a spectacular performance by the Polynesian Revue. The show began with a waterfall curtain parting to reveal dancers from the Royal Tahitians troupe. Accompanied by live music, the performers showcased traditional dances from Samoa, Tahiti, and Hawaii. The grand finale featured thrilling fire walks and knife dances, leaving audiences in awe.
Interesting Stories and Trivia
- Celebrity Encounters: In 1962, the Tahitian Terrace was featured in a local television show called “Meet Me at Disneyland.” The episode included a demonstration of Polynesian dances and an appearance by beloved Mouseketeer Annette Funicello.
- Shared Kitchen: Interestingly, the Tahitian Terrace shared a kitchen with the Plaza Pavilion restaurant, despite being in different themed lands. This efficient use of space showcased the ingenuity of Disneyland’s design.
- Walt’s Personal Touch: During the restaurant’s early days, a guest reported seeing Walt Disney himself dining at the Tahitian Terrace. The guest overheard Walt discussing potential improvements to the waterfall with Disney officials, highlighting his ongoing commitment to enhancing the park experience.
- Affordable Luxury: In 1962, a full dinner at the Tahitian Terrace, including a drink and dessert, cost less than $4 (equivalent to about $40 in 2023).
- Lasting Legacy: The Tahitian Terrace left such an impression on Disney fans that in 2012, Disneyland hosted a special one-night event that brought back the Tahitian Terrace experience. Tickets for this exclusive event cost $260 and included a special appearance by Disney Imagineer Rolly Crump, one of the original Adventureland designers.
The Tahitian Terrace remained a beloved part of Disneyland for over three decades, closing its doors on April 17, 1993. Its closure to make way for Aladdin’s Oasis was met with disappointment from many Disney enthusiasts who cherished the unique dining experience it offered. Today, the spirit of the Tahitian Terrace lives on in the memories of those who experienced its magic and in a namesake quick-service restaurant at Hong Kong Disneyland, serving as a testament to its enduring appeal.
Wishing you the best week,
Kelly