Category: Traditions

The Super Bowl MVPs Who’ve Visited Disney World: A Tradition of Champions and Magic

Every year, as the confetti settles and the cheers of the Super Bowl fade into history, a familiar phrase echoes through the airwaves: “I’m going to Disney World!” This iconic declaration, made by the game’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), has become a cherished tradition that seamlessly blends the worlds of professional football and the enchanting allure of Disney’s theme parks. But how did this delightful custom come to be, and which MVPs have embraced the magic of Disney World in their post-game celebrations? Let’s take a whimsical journey through the history of this tradition, from its inception to the present day, and discover how Disney World has become the ultimate destination for football’s finest.

The Birth of a Tradition: 1987

The story begins in 1987, following Super Bowl XXI, where the New York Giants triumphed over the Denver Broncos. Phil Simms, the Giants’ quarterback, was named the game’s MVP. In a post-game interview, Simms was asked, “What are you going to do next?” His response? “I’m going to Disney World!” This spontaneous declaration was part of a new advertising campaign by The Walt Disney Company, aiming to promote its theme parks by featuring athletes celebrating their victories at Disney destinations. The campaign, known as “What’s Next?”, quickly became a staple of Super Bowl broadcasts, with the MVPs of each game proclaiming their plans to visit Disney World or Disneyland.

A Tradition Grows: From Simms to Mahomes

Since that inaugural moment, the tradition has continued, with each Super Bowl MVP adding their own unique flair to the phrase. From Joe Montana’s charismatic “I’m going to Disneyland!” to Patrick Mahomes’ enthusiastic “I’m going to Disney World!” in 2020, these declarations have become a symbol of triumph and joy. The commercials, often featuring the MVPs participating in parades and enjoying the attractions, have not only celebrated athletic achievement but also showcased the magic and wonder of Disney’s parks.

The Magic of Disney World: A Dream Destination

For the MVPs, visiting Disney World is more than just a promotional appearance; it’s a chance to experience the magic that millions of visitors cherish. From the iconic Cinderella Castle to the thrilling rides and enchanting parades, Disney World offers a unique blend of entertainment and nostalgia. For many athletes, it’s a dream come true to walk down Main Street, U.S.A., or to be part of a parade with beloved Disney characters. The experience is a testament to the universal appeal of Disney’s magic, transcending the boundaries of sport and entertainment.

Beyond Football: Other Sports and Celebrities Join the Tradition

While the tradition is most closely associated with Super Bowl MVPs, it has also extended to other sports and celebrities. From NBA Finals MVPs to Olympic gold medalists, athletes from various disciplines have been featured in the “What’s Next?” campaign, sharing their plans to visit Disney parks. This expansion highlights the versatility of the tradition and its ability to unite diverse achievements under the banner of Disney’s magic.

The Future of the Tradition: What’s Next?

As we look to the future, the “I’m going to Disney World!” tradition shows no signs of slowing down. With each passing year, new champions emerge, ready to share their joy with the world and, of course, with Mickey Mouse. The tradition continues to evolve, embracing new athletes, new sports, and new generations of fans. It’s a celebration that transcends the game itself, reminding us all of the magic that happens when sports and entertainment come together.

Conclusion: A Magical Tradition of Champions

In the grand tapestry of Super Bowl history, the “I’m going to Disney World!” tradition stands out as a beacon of joy and celebration. It’s a moment where sportsmanship meets fantasy, where athletes share their triumphs with the world, and where Disney’s magic touches the lives of millions. From Phil Simms to Kenneth Walker III, each MVP has added their own chapter to this enchanting story, ensuring that the magic of Disney World remains a cherished part of Super Bowl lore. So, the next time you hear an MVP declare, “I’m going to Disney World!” remember that it’s not just a phrase; it’s a tradition that celebrates the spirit of victory and the magic of dreams coming true.

February 10, 2026
The History of Tinker Bell Flying From Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom

For generations of Walt Disney World guests, the moment when Tinker Bell takes flight from Cinderella Castle during the evening fireworks has felt almost timeless. It’s one of those experiences that seems as though it has always existed, as if it were built into the castle itself. In reality, the tradition has a very specific beginning, a clever technical backstory, and a surprising amount of planning hidden behind a few seconds of magic.

The very first time Tinker Bell ever flew during a Disney fireworks show did not happen in Florida. Her debut flight took place at Disneyland Park on July 17, 1961, created as a special effect to celebrate the park’s anniversary and add a dramatic visual finale to nighttime entertainment. The idea was simple but bold for its time: allow Tinker Bell to “fly” from the Matterhorn area toward Sleeping Beauty Castle, creating the illusion that she was sprinkling pixie dust across the park.

When Walt Disney World opened a decade later, Imagineers knew the effect was too powerful to leave behind.

On October 1, 1971, opening day of Walt Disney World, Tinker Bell made her first official flight from Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom. From that very first night, her flight became a symbolic moment, visually tying the fireworks to the fairy tale heart of the park and reinforcing the idea that Magic Kingdom wasn’t just inspired by Disneyland, but expanding on its traditions.

The decision to include Tinker Bell was more than nostalgia. Cinderella Castle is significantly taller than Sleeping Beauty Castle, which allowed Disney to refine the illusion. From a guest’s perspective, she truly appears to soar across the sky, glowing against the darkness, rather than simply sliding along a cable. That illusion is carefully engineered, using a high-tension zipline system and precise lighting to hide the mechanics from view.

Over the years, the role of flying Tinker Bell has been handled by specially trained Cast Members. Despite the delicate appearance of the flight, it requires strength, balance, and extensive safety training. Wind conditions, weather, and visibility all factor into whether the flight can occur on any given night. If conditions aren’t safe, the flight is quietly canceled, often without guests realizing just how close they came to seeing it.

Tinker Bell’s appearance also evolved alongside Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectaculars. While early shows featured her as a simple visual finale, later productions wove her directly into the story of the fireworks. With shows like Wishes, Happily Ever After, and more recent nighttime spectaculars, her flight often marks an emotional high point, reinforcing themes of belief, imagination, and childhood wonder.

Interestingly, the tradition became so iconic that many guests assume Tinker Bell has always flown every night. In reality, her flight has occasionally been paused during certain fireworks eras, technical refurbishments, or seasonal changes. Each return tends to spark renewed excitement, proving just how deeply the moment is tied to the Magic Kingdom experience.

Today, when Tinker Bell launches from Cinderella Castle and glides over Main Street, U.S.A., she represents more than a visual trick. She connects modern guests to opening-day Magic Kingdom, to Disneyland’s early innovation in live entertainment, and to Walt Disney’s belief that nighttime should feel just as magical as daytime.

It’s a fleeting moment, lasting only seconds, but it has been captivating audiences for more than half a century. And every time she flies, it quietly reminds guests that sometimes the simplest effects—done just right—become the most unforgettable.

January 20, 2026
Christmas Eve at Walt Disney World: What It’s Really Like in Each Park
Christmas Eve at Walt Disney World feels like a moment suspended between two worlds. The holiday season is in full swing, decorations are at their peak, and there is a sense of anticipation in the air as families prepare for Christmas Day itself. At the same time, it is one of the busiest days of the year. Understanding what Christmas Eve is like in each of the four theme parks helps set realistic expectations—and can turn an overwhelming day into a memorable one.

🎄 Christmas Eve at Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom on Christmas Eve is the most iconic—and the most crowded—park on property. Many guests dream of spending Christmas Eve on Main Street, U.S.A., and that dream is shared by tens of thousands of others.

Crowds typically reach peak levels, often at or near capacity by late morning. On especially busy years, Disney has been known to temporarily stop admitting guests without park reservations or hopping eligibility. If Magic Kingdom is your plan, arriving well before park opening is essential.

Despite the crowds, the atmosphere is unmatched. Main Street, U.S.A. is fully decked out with garlands, wreaths, and a towering Christmas tree, while Cinderella Castle glows against the winter sky. Holiday music fills the park, and there is a palpable emotional energy—this is the park most people imagine when they think “Disney at Christmas.”

In terms of entertainment, Christmas Eve does not feature a special holiday fireworks show. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party fireworks are exclusive to party nights earlier in the season. On Christmas Eve, guests see the regular nighttime fireworks, typically Happily Ever After, assuming weather conditions allow.

Park hours are usually extended, often staying open later than normal, but long waits can offset the benefit of those extra hours. Late evening can feel slightly calmer, especially during fireworks, when ride queues sometimes dip briefly.

What to know
- Busiest park on Christmas Eve
- No special Christmas fireworks show
- Regular nighttime fireworks only
- Extended hours are common
- Pure holiday atmosphere, but patience required
🎄 Christmas Eve at EPCOT

EPCOT offers a very different Christmas Eve experience—one that many seasoned Disney fans prefer.

Crowds are still heavy, but EPCOT’s size helps absorb them better than Magic Kingdom. Guests spread out between World Showcase and the front of the park, making the day feel busy without feeling suffocating.

The highlight here is the Festival of the Holidays, which runs throughout the season and is in full force on Christmas Eve. Holiday storytellers appear in each World Showcase pavilion, sharing traditions from around the world. Candlelight Processional performances usually take place nightly around this time, featuring a celebrity narrator and a live orchestra and choir.

Unlike Magic Kingdom, EPCOT’s holiday experience leans more reflective and cultural than celebratory spectacle. Many guests find Christmas Eve evening especially meaningful here.

Fireworks are not holiday-specific. EPCOT presents its standard nighttime show, often Luminous: The Symphony of Us, without Christmas overlays.

Park hours may be slightly extended, but not dramatically so. Dining reservations are in extremely high demand, particularly for World Showcase restaurants.

What to know
- Busy but more manageable crowds
- Festival of the Holidays runs all day
- Candlelight Processional usually offered
- No Christmas-specific fireworks
- Excellent park for adults and slower pacing
🎄 Christmas Eve at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios on Christmas Eve is festive, energetic, and surprisingly chaotic.

Crowds are heavy, driven largely by the park’s headline attractions like Rise of the Resistance and Slinky Dog Dash. Holiday decorations add charm, but they are not the main draw—rides are.

Seasonal entertainment can include character appearances in holiday attire and themed decor along Hollywood Boulevard, but special Christmas shows are limited compared to earlier decades. The park focuses more on atmosphere than scheduled holiday performances.

Fireworks, if offered, are the standard nighttime spectacular, not a holiday edition. Park hours may be extended slightly, but ride wait times remain long well into the evening.

This park appeals most to guests who prioritize thrill rides and cinematic experiences over traditional holiday ambiance.

What to know
- Heavy crowds, ride-focused park
- Limited special holiday entertainment
- No Christmas-specific fireworks
- Decorations are atmospheric, not immersive
🎄 Christmas Eve at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is often the most underrated choice for Christmas Eve—and one of the most pleasant.

Crowds are still elevated, but noticeably lighter than the other three parks. The park’s holiday decorations are subtle and beautiful, featuring natural materials, artisan ornaments, and culturally inspired decor that fits the park’s theme.

Seasonal touches include holiday versions of the Merry Menagerie puppets and special character flotillas when available. There is no nighttime fireworks show at Animal Kingdom, Christmas Eve or otherwise.

Park hours are typically shorter, as Animal Kingdom closes earlier than the other parks. For many guests, this works in their favor—Christmas Eve morning and early afternoon here can feel calm and reflective before heading elsewhere or back to the resort.

What to know
- Lowest crowds of the four parks
- Subtle, elegant holiday décor
- No fireworks
- Earlier closing time
- Excellent for families and relaxed touring
🎁 Additional Christmas Eve Tips Across All Parks

Christmas Eve is one of the busiest days of the year, regardless of park choice. Lightning Lane availability is extremely limited, mobile food ordering fills quickly, and dining reservations are often booked months in advance.

Transportation remains efficient but crowded, especially at park closing. Guests should expect longer waits for buses, monorails, and Skyliner routes.

Most importantly, Christmas Eve at Walt Disney World is about atmosphere, tradition, and shared experience more than efficiency. Those who embrace the crowds and slow down often enjoy it more than those trying to conquer a checklist.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Eve at Walt Disney World is magical—but not effortless. Magic Kingdom offers unmatched holiday visuals and emotion, EPCOT delivers culture and reflection, Hollywood Studios brings energy and attractions, and Animal Kingdom provides a peaceful holiday escape.

Choosing the right park depends on what kind of Christmas Eve you want to experience. With realistic expectations, patience, and a flexible plan, Christmas Eve can become one of the most memorable days you ever spend at Walt Disney World.
December 24, 2025
Disney Bounding at Disney World: Rules, History, and How Guests Do It

Walking down Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll often notice guests who seem to echo Disney characters without actually dressing as them. A woman in a flowing yellow skirt and blue top smiles near the hub. A couple strolls by in green and brown tones that subtly evoke Peter Pan and Wendy. None of them are wearing costumes, yet the inspiration is unmistakable. This is Disney Bounding, a fashion trend that has quietly become part of the modern Disney World experience.

Disney Bounding is more than a style choice. It is a creative outlet, a social signal among fans, and a way for guests to feel immersed in Disney storytelling while still following park rules. What began as a niche concept among Disney fans has evolved into a widespread phenomenon embraced across Walt Disney World.

What Disney Bounding Is and Why It Exists

Disney Bounding is the practice of dressing in everyday clothing inspired by a Disney character rather than wearing a literal costume. The goal is suggestion rather than imitation. Colors, textures, silhouettes, and accessories are used to hint at a character’s identity without replicating their outfit exactly.

The appeal lies in creativity and subtlety. Disney Bounding allows guests to express fandom in a way that feels stylish and socially acceptable within the parks. It also avoids confusion between guests and Cast Members, which is why Disney Bounding is permitted while traditional costumes for adults are not.

For many fans, Disney Bounding is also a way to participate in the magic without crossing into cosplay. It exists in that space between fashion and fandom, where a knowledgeable eye can recognize the reference, but the outfit still functions as a normal park-appropriate look.

When Disney Bounding Became Popular

The term “Disney Bounding” originated in the early 2010s, credited largely to Disney fan and blogger Leslie Kay. Her concept gained traction on Tumblr and Pinterest, where outfit inspiration boards quickly spread among Disney enthusiasts.

As social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube grew, Disney Bounding followed. Photos taken in front of Cinderella Castle or Spaceship Earth amplified the trend, turning subtle outfits into shareable moments. Over time, Disney Bounding shifted from an online idea into a recognizable in-park behavior.

Today, Disney Bounding is especially popular among annual passholders, influencers, and repeat visitors. It has also become a staple for themed events, seasonal visits, and milestone trips where guests want something more expressive than standard park attire without violating Disney’s costume policy.

Disney’s Rules and Why They Matter

Walt Disney World maintains strict costume guidelines for guests over the age of 14. These rules exist primarily for safety, security, and the integrity of the guest experience. Disney Bounding works because it respects these boundaries.

Disney prohibits adult guests from wearing full costumes, masks, wigs, props, or outfits that could be mistaken for official characters. Clothing cannot drag on the ground, obscure the face, or include weapons or costume accessories that could raise safety concerns.

Disney Bounding stays within the rules by focusing on normal clothing items that are clearly not costumes. A red dress with white polka dots inspired by Minnie Mouse is acceptable, while a replica Minnie dress with ears and gloves is not. The difference is clarity. Cast Members must be able to easily identify who is a guest and who is part of the show.

Because Disney Bounding is interpretive rather than literal, it aligns naturally with these rules. When done correctly, it enhances the park atmosphere rather than disrupting it.

How Far Guests Take Disney Bounding

Disney Bounding exists on a wide spectrum. Some guests keep it minimal, using color coordination alone. Others go much further, building elaborate outfits that include themed jewelry, custom bags, coordinated shoes, and carefully styled silhouettes.

At its most basic, Disney Bounding may be as simple as wearing green and purple to suggest Buzz Lightyear or earth tones to evoke Indiana Jones. At the more advanced end, guests plan entire wardrobes months in advance, often coordinating outfits for each park or day of their trip.

Social media has pushed the trend further, encouraging more intricate interpretations that still remain rule-compliant. Loungefly backpacks, themed sneakers, and handmade accessories allow guests to push creativity while staying within Disney guidelines.

However, even the most elaborate Disney Bounds stop short of full character replication. There is an unspoken understanding within the community that once an outfit could confuse a Cast Member or child, it has gone too far. The best Disney Bounding outfits spark recognition, not role-playing.

Why Disney Bounding Fits the Disney World Experience

Disney Bounding works because it mirrors what Disney itself does best. It tells a story without spelling everything out. Just as Imagineers use color, texture, and suggestion to create immersive lands, Disney Bounders use fashion to participate in that storytelling.

For many guests, especially frequent visitors, Disney Bounding adds a new layer of engagement. It becomes a conversation starter, a photo opportunity, and a personal ritual tied to each trip. It also allows adults to feel playful in a space often associated with childhood nostalgia.

At Disney World, where details matter and personal expression is encouraged within boundaries, Disney Bounding feels like a natural extension of the experience rather than a trend imposed upon it.

The Future of Disney Bounding

As Disney World continues to evolve and social media remains central to how guests share their trips, Disney Bounding shows no signs of fading. If anything, it has become more refined, more inclusive, and more visible.

What started as a workaround for costume rules has become a cultural norm among Disney fans. It respects the park’s policies while celebrating creativity, individuality, and love for Disney storytelling.

Disney Bounding proves that magic does not require a costume. Sometimes, it just takes the right colors, a little imagination, and a deep understanding of the stories that bring Disney World to life.

December 19, 2025
Discover A Message from Mickey Mouse After Your Walt Disney World Resort Vacation

If you stay 3 nights or longer at a Disney Resort Hotel during 2020, you will receive a letter thanking you for visiting. This is no ordinary letter. Within the letter there will be a QR code that will unlock a hidden screen on the Play Disney Parks app. This screen will allow you to access an animation, augmented reality Mickey Mouse that will appear on your phone.

I am looking forward to seeing this once me and my pups come back from our upcoming trip.

February 18, 2020