Disney Bucket List - A Walt Disney World Podcast

Ep. 68 - Disney News Monday!

It's Monday so you know what that means....it's time for the News!
On this episode we cover:
Huge change coming to Soarin'!
New theme park in Las Vegas?
New CEO Succession
Spaceship Earth
Hollywood Studios is missing a big feature!
Remy's Ratatouille Adventure is getting a big change!
Changes in the Japan Pavillion in EPCOT
So Much More!
#waltdisneyworld #disney #EPCOT #wdw #waltdisney #soarin

Ep. 67 - Pin Trading at Walt Disney World!

🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode of Disney Bucket List Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most interactive and collectible Disney traditions of all time: Pin Trading at Walt Disney World. From its origins during the Millennium Celebration to the best places to find rare pins, this episode will help you master the art of trading like a pro. Whether you’re brand new to the hobby or a seasoned collector, there’s a bit of Disney magic here for everyone!
🗂 Episode Segments:
🧭 1. History of Pin Trading
Origins in 1999 during Walt Disney World’s Millennium Celebration
The explosion of collectible designs and how the tradition became permanent
Fun note: Over 100,000 unique pins have been released worldwide
📍 2. How Pin Trading Works
Getting started with lanyards or starter sets
Official Disney Pin Trading logo on the back
Cast Member vs. guest-to-guest trading etiquette
2-trade-per-Cast-Member rule
🌟 3. Special Trading Locations & Experiences
Frontier Trading Post (Magic Kingdom)
Pin Traders at EPCOT
Disney Springs Pin Traders
Resort lobby “hidden” boards
Pin Trading Nights & events
✨ 4. Fun Facts & Easter Eggs
First Disney pin from the 1930s
Hidden Mickey pin series and their collectability
Spotting “scrappers” and unofficial pins
Limited editions and collector culture
📝 5. Tips for New Traders
Start with “traders,” not your favorite pins
Inspect pins for authenticity
Hunt themed boards for rare finds
Kindness and Disney spirit make the experience magical
❓ 6. Trivia Time
Year Pin Trading debuted
Trade limits with Cast Members
Hidden Mickey pins vs. Limited Editions
🌈 7. Closing Thoughts
Pin trading as storytelling
A magical way to connect with Cast Members and fellow guests
Encouragement to try pin trading on your next trip!
🏰 Key Takeaways:
Pin trading began in 1999 and remains a beloved interactive Disney tradition.
You can trade up to two pins per Cast Member per day — and it’s free once you have pins.
Look for official logos and Hidden Mickey icons to ensure authenticity.
Some of the best trading happens in unexpected places, like resort lobbies or event nights.
The real value of pin trading is in the memories and connections, not just the metal.
🧠 Trivia Answers Recap:
Pin Trading debuted in 🅱️ 1999
You can make 🅱️ 2 trades per Cast Member per day
🅱️ Hidden Mickey pins are only available through trading, not for purchase
📌 Mentioned Locations:
Frontier Trading Post – Magic Kingdom
Pin Traders – EPCOT
Disney Springs Pin Traders
Various Walt Disney World Resort hotel shops & lobbies
📬 Connect with Disney Bucket List:
📸 Instagram: DisneyBucketListPod
💌 Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com (send questions or comments!)
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review, and share this episode with your favorite pin trading pals!

Ep. 66 - Disney News Monday!

It's Monday so you know what that means....that's right it's Disney News Monday!  Join us as we catch up on all the updates around the World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruise Line.
Topics on today's edition of the news includes:
New addition to the Storybook Canal Boats at Disneyland.
Zooptopia: Better Zoogether opens November 7th!
Other closures announced for Animal Kingdom.
A timeline for Rockin Roller Coaster Starring Electric Mayhem has been announced!
Frozen Ever After is receiving a much-desired update!
Construction progress at Fort Wilderness and Grand Floridian.
New breakfast menu at Golden Oak Outpost!
Join us!  Leave a 5-star review, tell a friend, tell an enemy, & let's get the Disney Bucket List Podcast in more people's ears!  
 
Look to connect?
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Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com  (email me with questions or comments!)
 
Thanks!  "If you can dream it, you can do it." - Walt Disney

Ep. 65 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2025

🕛 Episode Summary:
In this spooky-fun episode, we take you inside Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World! From rare character meets and exclusive snacks to parades, fireworks, and frightfully delightful overlays, we’re covering everything you need to know to make the most of your Halloween night in Magic Kingdom.
Host Tyler shares firsthand tips, insider strategies, and a full party walkthrough — perfect for both first-timers and Disney die-hards planning their next trip.
🧙‍♀️ In This Episode You’ll Learn:
What makes Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party different from a regular park day
2025 highlights and new additions (characters, treats, entertainment, and more)
Must-see shows and parades — including the Boo-To-You Parade and Not-So-Spooky Spectacular
The best time to watch fireworks and parades for smaller crowds
Tips for trick-or-treating, photo ops, and costume comfort in the Florida heat
How to plan a smooth, magical night from early entry to midnight
Instagram: disneybucketlistpod
 
#halloween #waltdisneyworld #disney

Ep. 64 - Disney News Monday!

🗓 Episode Summary
In this episode, we dive into the newest food offerings, snack kiosks, and park updates at Walt Disney World. From fresh Food & Wine booths and a Toy Story Land snack window to 13 new sauced chicken tenders, new performers aboard Disney Destiny, the much-awaited reopening of Spaceship Earth, and early 2026 discounts — we cover it all.
New Toy Story Land Snack Kiosk
13 New Sauced Chicken Tenders
Disney Destiny: Two New Performers
Spaceship Earth Reopening October 25, 2025
Disney World Discounts Released for 2026
 
#waltdisneyworld #disney #disneycruiseline
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Ep. 63 - Wailulu Bar & Grill

We explore the story and flavors behind Wailulu Bar & Grill, a new addition to Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. From its lagoon-side setting and Polynesian-inspired décor to its creative takes on island cuisine, Wailulu is quickly becoming a must-visit dining spot.
We’ll walk through:
🌴 The Atmosphere & Theme – what makes Wailulu’s vibe special.
🍔 Menu Highlights – from spam musubi to the Wayfinder Burger, plus tropical cocktails and DOLE Whip sundaes.
🎆 Dining with Fireworks Views – how to time your meal with Magic Kingdom’s nightly show.
👍 Guest Impressions – the dishes and drinks guests love most (and a few misses).
💡 Tips & Tricks – when to go, what to order, and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Listen?If you’re planning a Disney trip, staying at the Polynesian, or just love hearing about creative food experiences, this episode gives you the inside scoop on whether Wailulu deserves a spot on your dining itinerary.
🔑 Key Takeaways
No reservations needed – it’s walk-up only.
Don’t miss the shareables: spam musubi, ahi tuna crisps, and crispy wings.
Fireworks + dinner = one of the best Disney dining backdrops.
Drinks can be hit-or-miss, but the food usually shines.
A solid mid-to-upscale option for families, couples, and foodies alike.
✨ If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow Disney foodies!

Ep. 62 - Disney News Monday!

2025 Candlelight Processional Narrators (EPCOT)
Dates: November 28 – December 30, 2025 
Showtimes: 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM, 8:15 PM nightly 
Narrator lineup highlights:• Constance Wu (Nov 28-29) • Jordan Fisher (Nov 30–Dec 2) • Jennifer Garner (Dec 3–4) • Ashley Eckstein, Ralph Macchio• Leslie Uggams, Henry Winkler, Lauren Daigle (all NEW for 2025) • Gary Sinise, Brendan Fraser, Luis Fonsi, Joel Smallbone, Brie Larson, Sheryl Lee Ralph 
Note: eight new celebrity narrators — a high turnover for a single year 
Dining packages: available and guarantee seating 
Tips: arrive early, plan around popular narrators, check standby vs package seating
Caution: narrator/dates subject to change 
The Muppet Show is Returning (Disney+ Special 2026)
Disney officially announced a revival special on Disney+ for 2026 to mark the 50th anniversary 
Sabrina Carpenter is named as a special guest star
This is a one-off event initially, potentially acting as a test for bringing Muppets back full-time 
Legacy Muppet performers (Bill Barretta, Dave Goelz, Eric Jacobson, etc.) will be part of the cast 
Discussion point: expectations vs risk — will fans embrace a modern Muppet Show?
Tie-in: Muppets are also making their way into the parks (Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster retheme) 
Disney After Hours Returns for 2026
Disney has confirmed that After Hours events will return in 2026 at Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT
Dates & details:• Magic Kingdom: Jan 12–Jul 27, 2026• DHS: Jan 14 start, and multiple dates through Sept 12, 2026• EPCOT: similar schedule, 9:30 PM–12:30 AM event windows and park entry starting at 7 PM 
Benefits: Limited capacity, lower wait times, special character pop-ups 
Ticketing:• Guests staying at select Disney hotels (Resort, Swan & Dolphin, Shades of Green) get early access starting Oct 9, 2025 • Public ticket sales begin Oct 14, 2025 
Strategy tips: enter early, plan your attractions, check which rides are open
Caveat: not all attractions or character experiences guaranteed
Star Wars Launch Bay Closure / Disney Animation Return
Star Wars Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios permanently closed on September 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM 
It has been replaced (or to be replaced) by returning “The Magic of Disney Animation” reimagined experience in 2026 
The closure ends a decade of the exhibit, meet-and-greet, collectibles, and lore displays
Discussion: what’s lost / what’s gained? How this fits into Disney’s shifting focus toward immersive experiences

Ep. 61 - Space 220!

🌌 Episode: Dining 220 Miles Above Earth – Space 220 at EPCOT
Podcast: Disney Bucket List PodcastHost: TylerLocation: EPCOT, Walt Disney World ResortExperience Type: Signature Dining / Immersive Attraction
✨ Episode Summary
Strap in and prepare for liftoff! In this episode of the Disney Bucket List Podcast, Tyler takes you to Space 220, EPCOT’s immersive dining adventure that rockets guests 220 miles above Earth. From the “Stellarvator” launch sequence to panoramic views of our planet, this dining destination is more than a meal—it’s an attraction.
🛰️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The story and concept behind Space 220
How Imagineers blended dining with attraction-style storytelling
Highlights from the prix fixe menu and signature cocktails
Fun facts and hidden Easter eggs floating outside your window
Why Space 220 is one of EPCOT’s most anticipated restaurants
🍽️ Menu Highlights
Appetizers: Starry Calamari, Centauri Caesar Salad
Entrées: Bluehouse Salmon, Filet Mignon
Desserts: Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake, Chocolate Cheesecake
Lounge Favorites: The Big Tang, Nebula, Planetary Punch
🌟 Fun Facts & Easter Eggs
The name Space 220 comes from its orbital altitude—220 miles above Earth.
Look closely at the windows—you may spot astronauts walking space dogs, a lightsaber duel, or even Disney characters floating by.
The “Stellarvator” elevator uses Soarin’-style technology to create a seamless launch experience.
Space 220 faced multiple delays before opening in September 2021, making it one of EPCOT’s most anticipated new additions.
✅ Why It’s Bucket List Worthy
Space 220 isn’t just dinner—it’s a journey. Between the ride into orbit, the stunning visuals, and the galactic-themed menu, this EPCOT restaurant sets the bar for immersive dining experiences at Walt Disney World.
🔗 Resources & Links
Official Space 220 Info – Walt Disney World
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Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com

Ep. 60 - Disney News Monday!

🔍 What We Cover
Disney Cruise Line – we cover updates from the Disney Destiny and unnamed Wish-class ship.
Space 220 Lounge – A new lounge menu is coming to Space 220.
Bay Lake Tower – New room updates come to the Monorail resort.
The Scuba Gear Heist at Disney Springs – Yes, really! A bizarre late-night robbery at Paddlefish.
🎧 Why Listen
If you’re planning a trip or just love keeping up with Disney magic, this episode gives you the inside scoop on what’s happening across the parks right now—plus a fun dash of Disney weirdness.
📌 Links & Resources
Disney Parks Blog: Official Updates
Festival Info: EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
News Sources: BlogMickey, WDW News Today, Orlando Sentinel
💬 Join the Conversation
Which update excites you most—Share your thoughts with us:
Instagram: @disneybucketlistpod
Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com
⭐ Support the Show
If you enjoy The Disney Bucket List Podcast, please subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. It helps more Disney fans find the magic!

Ep. 59 - Disney's Boardwalk Inn

Episode Summary
Step back in time to the glamour of the 1920s and 1930s as we explore Disney’s BoardWalk Inn at Walt Disney World. From its Atlantic City and Coney Island inspiration to its immersive BoardWalk entertainment district, this resort is filled with history, hidden details, and Disney storytelling magic. In this episode, we uncover the history, Easter eggs, accommodations, dining highlights, and fun facts that make the BoardWalk Inn a true Disney bucket list destination.
🏨 History & Inspiration
Opened July 1, 1996 as part of Disney’s Deluxe Resort expansion.
Designed by Robert A.M. Stern, inspired by Atlantic City and turn-of-the-century boardwalks.
Introduced a new entertainment district concept to Walt Disney World.
🎡 Easter Eggs & Details
Luna Park Carousel miniature in the lobby with Disney attraction scenes.
Chandeliers with carved carousel horses.
Framed vintage postcards and roller coaster models nodding to early seaside amusement parks.
Hidden Mickeys on railings and walkways.
🛏️ Accommodations & Amenities
Deluxe rooms with Crescent Lake and BoardWalk views.
Club Level with Innkeeper’s Club access.
BoardWalk Villas available for Disney Vacation Club stays.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
Flying Fish – signature seafood dining.
Trattoria al Forno – Italian classics + character breakfast.
BoardWalk Deli and BoardWalk Ice Cream for casual eats.
Entertainment: Atlantic Dance Hall, live performers, nightlife.
🌟 Fun Facts
Real wooden planks line the promenade.
Pool themed after Luna Park, once featuring the famous “clown slide.”
Resort connects directly to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios via boats and walkways.
Architecture reflects the golden age of seaside leisure.
Why It’s a Bucket List Experience
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn isn’t just a hotel—it’s a living piece of Disney storytelling, offering nostalgia, charm, and convenience just steps away from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Whether you’re exploring the entertainment, dining with characters, or relaxing lakeside, the BoardWalk captures the perfect blend of romance, fun, and Disney detail.
✨ Have you ever strolled Disney’s BoardWalk at night under the twinkle lights? Share your favorite BoardWalk memories with us!🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to Disney Bucket List so you never miss an episode as we cross off one Disney experience each week.
 
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