Fan created film captures the spirit of Star wars perfectly

Courtesy of: Walt Disney World Blog

A fan created film captures Star wars perfectly, the unofficial fan film is based in the world of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens world of jakku. This short film shows exactly how much the franchise has become as well as what die-hard fans are capable of, Joe Still the creator and director of the short film named "Kara". The story starts with a Daughter and Father trying to escape to a rebel village, while trying to escape they encounter a dog fight between tie-fighters and x wings. what will happen next? 

"Kara" | (2016) (An Unofficial Star Wars Film) from Joe Sill on Vimeo.

Annual Events in Walt Disney World 2016

Courtesy of: Walt Disney World 

Walt Disney World is a magical place for families of all ages, there are many events going around all year long. Please take a look below for all of the annual events happening this year. you can also visit our calendar if you would like an easier view to plan out your vacations with.

February: 2/18-2/21/16: Princess Half Marathon weekend: Events include: the Disney Royal Family 5k, Disney enchanted 10k, Disney's fit for a princess expo and the main event the princess half marathon. This events takes runners through Epcot & Magic Kingdom as well as the parking areas of the park. this will affect traffic.

2. March- May 3/2/16 - 5/30/16
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival : Disney's Epcot expanded this event 90 days in 2016 and in 2015 Anna & Elsa joined over 100 topiaries, outdoor kitchens and marketplaces and the Epcot Flower power concert series as well as the butterfly house where guest can see 100's of unique butterflies
3. April 14th -17th
Star Wars 5k - The Dark Side
events include star wars 5K, 10k, The dark side challenge and much more. Registration starts in September

Disney to livestream "A frozen holiday wish"

Courtesy of: Walt Disney World blog

To tourists and locals alike its almost that time of year again, what better way to celebrate the fast approaching holiday season? Of course with one of the fastest growing brands last holiday season. Showing now signs of stopping and quickly becoming a staple to the holidays is Disney's Frozen. frozen's popularity has grown to record highs and this year is bound to be no different. In fact in just a few days you will be able to watch Disney's "A Frozen Holiday Wish" online, Disney will be livestreaming the show to millions of viewers worldwide on November 8th 2015. 

this will surly not only secure frozen as a main part of your holiday festivities but will grow anticipation of what is to come this holiday season. please follow this link to view this spectacle  and make sure to join in the conversation using #Disneyholidays

Reservations now open for NYE at Walt Disney World

Courtesy of: Disney Tourist Blog

December is fast approaching and you know what that means, Christmas decorations will soon fill the shelves of your local retail store as everyone prepares for what some consider the best time of the year. Before you know if the year will be over and you will be ringing in 2016. The question is how will you celebrate the beginning of a new year? have you planned out your new years celebrations yet? If not then lucky for you we have a top list of Disney experiences for you to take advantage of before anyone else. 

1. The Atlantic Dance hall: Bring in 2016 with a big band just like it would be in the 30's and 40's with fun and spirits, party hats, horns, a beautiful view of Epcot's famous fireworks display and a champagne toast at midnight is all included with the cost of admission. Worked hard all year? Treat yourself to an upgraded experience in your very own VIP section with your very own bartender and an ample desserts bar. 

2. California Grill: featuring food stations throughout the restaurant and a spectacular view of Magic Kingdom Park's fireworks display. A complimentary bar is included, in addition to wine served by the glass until the clock strikes midnight. Everyone attending is required to look their best, jackets for men are a requirement as well as a dress or pants ensemble for women.

3. Chef Mickey's: ring in 2016 with your family and friends with a holiday brunch complete with character dining starting from 7:00am till 1:00pm

4. La hacienda De San Angel: Bring in the new year with a 5 course Prix fixe dinner. seating is at 9:30 and includes a welcome margarita for adults, a mariachi band and epcot's fireworks display

5. Le Cellier Steakhouse: Celebrate with a four course meal starting at 4:30, 6:45 and 9:00pm. Lunch will also be served starting at 11:30am till 2:00pm 

6. Monsieur Paul's: Indulge in a special 3-course prix-fixe menu on New Year’s Eve. With lunch seatings at 11:45 a.m., noon, 2:15 p.m., and 2:45 p.m.; dinner at 5:45 and 6:15 p.m.; late night at 8:45 and 9:45 p.m.

7. Narcoossee's: Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity to revel in the festivities of New Year’s Eve while enjoying a four-course prix-fixe meal while overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon. First seating takes place between 5:00 and 5:55p.m., second from 8:45 to 9:40p.m.

8. Victoria & Albert's: Bring in the new year with a ten course dinner with 8 savory courses and two dessert courses. Additionally enjoy a 9 course wine pairing 

9. Epcot's World Showcase: Enjoy a custom New Year’s Eve Dinner buffet at World Show Place. Photo opportunities and classic Disney tunes make this a great dinner for the whole family. Look for a variety of soups and salads, oven-baked cod, chicken breast, mojo roasted pork, carved mesquite-spiced deep-fried turkey breast, plenty of sides and a scrumptious dessert station. A kid-friendly station features favorites like mac and cheese, fried chicken fritters, mini corn dogs and more.

There are plenty of options to choose from so tell us, Where will you celebrate 2016?

New attractions coming to Orlando

Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is always expanding. In the coming months there will be huge changes to your favorite disney theme parks, In addition to Disney Springs the former Downtown Disney. Families favorite theme parks have been spreading rumors of Star Wars land, Avatar land from the famed movie on pandora and much more to come. Universal Orlando Resort is also starting to change and adapt with new rides and attractions coming as early as next year. Where will these remodels take place? what attractions should you take advantage of before they disappear forever?. Take it from a local things are moving quickly. I was headed to the Downtown Disney area months ago and getting in and out of the area was a nightmare, thankfully the construction seems to have stopped. They tore down quite a bit added new restaurants, shops and they even changed the name to Disney Springs. In addition Disney has shown mock photos of Disney's rumored Star Wars land but we do not know yet where it will be built. We do know that they will be adding this rumored section to Walt Disney World, Disney land and several other Global Disney theme parks. Recently there has been speculation of an Avatar land being built at Disney's Animal Kingdom .

Disney has been teasing this for quite some time, just the other day they released photos of what looked like a new light show that will be themed after avatar which is rumored to come in  2017. In other theme park news Universal will be building a Waterpark to come in 2017 themed after hawaii with the center piece being a Volcano. In addition Famed TV host Jimmy Fallon will be getting a ride at universal which will replace Twister. 

Which ride will you miss? which ride are you most looking Forward too? let us know in the comments section. and please take a look to our local area guide for updates as the rumors are laid to rest and the rides are completed. If you are looking for a vacation rental stop and look no further as well 

Disney Springs Updates

Courtesy of: Walt Disney World 

Downtown Disney has gone through quite the transformation over the years, most noticeable is its complete revamp to Disney Springs. This remodel will expand and not only bring new business to the Central Florida area, but it will bring more tourists in from around the world. The latest update from Walt Disney World, famed chef Masaharu Morimoto's new venture Morimoto's is set to open tomorrow. This is his first restaurant featuring Pan-asian cuisine, experience the finest sushi, noodle bowls & everything in between.

The interior is lined with hints of ashwood and copper while the dining area is lined by a private glass walled enclosure, a patio and a sushi bar that is sculpted from the very same hand selected ashwood and lined with copper.

View the video below for a more in depth look at the interior. For reservations call 407-560-6686

hours are from 11:30am to 2am 

they will be serving lunch, Dinner and a weekend Brunch 

Update on Disney Springs

Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Downtown Disney has begun construction on several new restaurants and shops in order to change Downtown Disney into Disney Springs. These are the shops and restaurants that we know will be coming to the newly designed Disney Springs so far.

1. Vivoli Gelateria
2.Tea Traders Cafe
3.Chef Art Smiths Florida Fish Camp
4.Blaze Pizza
5.Morimoto's 

The Epcot international Flower and Garden festival is here!

Its that time of year again, where millions of guests travel to Orlando Florida to view the International Flower and Garden Festival hosted by Disney's Epcot Theme Park. head over and view all the new Flowers, enjoy fresh seasonal food both locally and global fare alike. Take in the unique Disney character topiaries, enjoy live presentations as well as live entertainment from the new Garden Rocks collection. New topiaries include Anna & Elsa which are located at the world showcase plaza, Goofy about spring which feature Chip & Dale, Goofy and friends and is located at the main entrance. Miss piggy from the Muppets is located at the Italy pavilion. Spring is in the air is a brand new topiary which features butterflies located behind spaceship earth. Disney Pixars lightning McQueen and Master are located near test track, if you are taking your children and they are a fan of Buzz light year, he will be located near mission space in topiary form. Fantasia is located at West Future World. There are plenty of photo opportunities with your children's favorite Disney Characters. There is also plenty of food for once you and your family get hungry. New to the outdoor kitchens is Botanas Botanico, enjoy a festive assortment of Latin American fare such as seafood ceviche consisting of Shrimp, Scallops and Grouper with mango and avocado. a Cachapa con queso which is a corn pancake with farmers cheese and many other vegetarian and gluten free options. As you can see there are plenty of options for a family wanting to take part in the Epcot Flower and garden festival. If looking for somewhere to stay please consider us as our homes are within 20 minutes of Walt Disney World and are far more spacious than a hotel. To book your stay please head to American Vacation Homes, We also offer discounts on Disney tickets which are required to enjoy the Flower and garden festival. *Discounts only valid for Disney passes of 3 days or more*

Fourth of July Celebrations around Central Florida

Check out a few of the great celebrations Central Florida will be putting on next week to celebrate July 4^th.  Come out and celebrate!

 

City of Orlando – Fireworks at the Fountain

Join Orlando residents in this annual celebration.  Kids’ area, food and beverages will be available for purchase.  Get there early for a great spot, and stay till the spectacular fireworks show at 9:10 pm, followed by a performance from the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. 

Time: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm – fireworks at 9:10 pm

Where: Lake Eola Park (195 North Rosalind Avenue)

Cost: FREE.  Food and beverages will be available for purchase. 

City of Kissimmee – Monumental July 4^th Celebration

At Kissimmee Lakefront Park, the city of Kissimmee is putting on a great show for this 4^th of July.  Starting at 5:00 pm; enjoy live music, food and beer, kids play areas and of course, fireworks!  Free Admission.  For more information, please call 407-518-2576 or visit www.KissimmeeParks.org

Time: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm – fireworks @ 9:10

Where: Kissimmee Lakefront Park

Cost: FREE.  Food and beverages will be available for purchase

 

Celebration Town Center – A Sci-Fi 4^th of July

Celebration’s Famous 4^th of July event will feature a movie themed contest (dress to impress as your favorite sci-fi character!), bounce houses and face painting for kids, live music by Oliver’s Queen, Gina Marie Incandela and DJ Tami, a special Veterans tribute and much more.  Parking and admission are free.  *Free park and ride shuttle will be available from 215 Celebration Place* For more information visit www.celebrationtowncenter.com

Time: 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm – fireworks @9:30pm

Where: Celebration Town Center

Cost: FREE (FREE Parking) Food and beverages will be available for purchase

Seaworld Orlando’s Fourth of July Celebration

Don’t miss a patriotic inspired show, featuring singers, a nice piece band and of course, a spectacular fireworks finale.  Event is included in admission. For more information visit http://seaworldparks.com/seaworld-orlando/

Time: 9:30 pm

Where: Bayside Stadium at SeaWorld Orlando

Cost: Park admission is required.  Need tickets? Save money and time by purchasing through our offices.  Call 407-465-2260 for pricing information.

Legoland Florida – Red, Brick and Boom

Watch as fireworks turn into millions of exploding Lego’s at this amazing celebration.  Park admission is required.  For more information visit http://florida.legoland.com/en/

Time: visit park for more info

Where:  Legoland - 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884

Cost: Park admission is required.  Need tickets? Save money and time by purchasing through our offices.  Call 407-465-2260 for pricing information.

Disney’s Celebrate America! – a Fourth of July Concert in the Sky

Celebrate Fourth of July with a Concert in the Sky at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.  A spectacular firework show over Cinderella’s Castle and music await you!

Time: Park hours 8:00 am – 1:00 am

Where: Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World

Cost: Park admission in required.  Need tickets? Save money and time by purchasing through our offices.  Call 407-465-2260 for pricing information.

American Vacation Homes offers more than 200 vacation rental properties in the State of Florida.  Visit us at www.MyAmericanVacationHome.com 

All information above was retrieved at the time this post was written.  We are not responsible for changes to start times, or any other detail included above.  Each location and event holds the right to change without notice.