My family and I took a trip the first week of Disney World’s 50th celebration and it did not disappoint. Each day was jam packed and full of fun for everyone.
Disney World’s 50th Celebration Family Vacation
We are definitely a family that frequents Disney World, so when the 50th celebration came around we made sure we booked a trip so we could be apart of the celebration too. Not knowing what the crowds would be like we did a few things differently than we normally would and our accommodations were a bit different, as well. But it was a vacation to remember. Full of fun, Disney 50th celebration merch, lots of firsts and more.
Disney World’s 50th Merch
Of course, Disney is always fun for all ages, but the 50th celebration definitely packs a punch with nostalgia for the older and intrigues the younger, as well. Magic Kingdom is full of nostalgia already, but the 50th celebration merch reminds you of the days gone by and can be found everywhere in the parks. From popcorn buckets to clothing and so much more.
But, don’t fret. You can still find all of the merch in any park on Disney World property, shops, Disney Springs and beyond. The 50th merch was not just limited to opening day, October 1, 2021, like so many people thought. It is still very available, alive and kicking.
We found a lot of amazing things and were quite pleased with the selection everywhere.
Shop, Scan, Pay, GO!
While we were there Disney was trying out a new way of purchasing Disney merch and it did not disappoint.
Here’s how it works:
- Scan the QR Code on a sign like the one pictured or go to the My Disney Experience App
- Scan the items you want to buy through the app
- Pay through the app
- Grab the QR code the app provides you after your purchase
- Let a cast member scan your QR code and bag your items at a bagging station like the one pictured
- Easy, peasy!
This way of purchasing wasn’t everywhere when we went, but it was being rolled out in several locations throughout Disney World property.
Space 220 in Epcot
While we were there we were able to experience the new Space 220 in Epcot and it did not disappoint. You can make a reservation for this amazing guest experience, but it is not necessary. We did not have a reservation, but it was a wait. We had a larger party, so we were able to take turns standing in line. We were able to take the kids to different rides while our friends waited for our table.
This dining experience is seriously out-of-this-world. As you enter the establishment you are taken on a trip into outer space.
You are taken into a rocket ship that takes you into space and once you get there you are immersed into the galaxy. As you dine and look out windows you can see astronauts, space ships, etc.
And the food, let’s talk about the food! The food is not your typical Disney World food. It is a lot more tasty and the drinks can definitely pack a punch.
The best way to get a reservation to Space 220 is to find an experienced travel agent that is willing to take the time early in the morning to make your reservation for the day and time you want to go.
Make sure you check out our review on Space 220 on IG Stories.
Ratatouille : L’Aventure Totalement Toquée de Rémy
We were able to ride by getting into the queue that day for Ratatouille : L’Aventure Totalement Toquée de Rémy in Epcot, y’all! It was such a cute ride!
Ratatouille is a motion-based trackless 3D ride, based on the Disney-Pixar animated film Ratatouille, located at Disney World’s France Pavilion at Epcot. The ride uses a trackless ride technology, similar to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
You can request to join this ride at 7am or 1pm the day of your visit through the My Disney Experience App, “Join Virtual Queue” tab. The “Join Virtual Queue” tab can be found as you scroll down the main page of the My Disney Experience App. If you are able to snag a queue time the My Disney Experience App will then provide you with you boarding group number. From there you wait on your boarding group number to board.
Grab a Queue Time for Ratatouille Tips
- Get into the My Disney Experience App, “Join Virtual Queue” a few minutes before 7am or 1pm eastern time.
- Keep refreshing until it is the exact time.
- When it is 7am or 1pm EXACT, act fast!
- Use a travel agent so they can school you on the best way to snag this hard-to-get queue time.
Main Street Confectionery
The Main Street Confectionery got a face lift and it did not disappoint either. It is so beautiful and spacious inside. The colors are absolutely gorgeous. It was well worth the wait to see the makeover this age old candy store got.
The whole store looks so much bigger! The layout just makes more sense!
Booking a Trip to Disney World During the 50th Celebration
With so many changes going on at Disney World right now, I would highly recommend booking your travel through a knowledgable travel agent. A travel agent may not be able to get you a “discount” (unless there is one available) but they will be able to help you with a lot of the extra things that are expected of you before you go. They take the grunt work out of it for you, so you can enjoy the Disney magic!
Disney World can be very confusing, even before all of the changes in the world. But since 2020, there have been even more. You need a travel agent that has been several times through the changes, one that can get up early and fight for your dining reservations, etc. and someone that can help you maneuver how the new lightening lane works (coming October 19, 2021), as well as the ride queues.
The knowledge with a great travel agent is priceless!
Check out 5 Ways to Save Money on Your Next Family Vacation so you can go on that fabulous vacation sooner than later!
