Disney College Program Discounts & Perks

UPDATE AS OF Feb 25, 2016 -  This page has become so popular! It's time for a HUGE update. Anything with the "NEW->" next to it, is apart of the 2016 Update! So please read about these new perks and discounts.

Many of the Downtown Disney Discounts will be no good because DTD is now Disney Springs and it's going through A LOT of changes.

All ON PROPERTY Discount have been updated. OFF Propety Discounts HAVE NOT been updated yet!

Typos will be fixed later.

END OF UPDATE - Thanks!!

There are many discounts and perks available to cast members. Discounts in everything from car care to dining. Not only do college program cast members get the discounts of regular cast member, but there are some goodies and perks available to college participants only.

I'll start with on-property and off-property discounts for Disney College Program cast members. Moving on to the Cast Only shops and warehouses. Finishing off withe DCP only perks.

ON-PROPERTY DISCOUNTS

20% off Merchandise - Cast Members receive a 20 percent discount on most merchandise at the Walt Disney World Resort with a 10 percent discount on items such as videos and DVDs.

Seasonal discounts may also apply. For example, the Holiday Discount (40%) extends into mid-February 2014.

NEW-> Speaking of Holiday Discount . . . PLEASE FALL CPs, take advantage of that discount. Wait until Late Oct/ Nov to purchase Merchandise, this will save you a ton. Unless you want specific items that temporary or even themed items like Food & Wine, save your coins. SPRING CPs come with cash because the 40% off ends in Mid-Feb. You can take advantage of this discount until Mid-Late Feb. Purchase your goods when you arrive.

NEW--> Did you know you can get a heavy discount on luxury perfumes and cosmetics by using the holiday discount to shop in the Guarlain at La Signature in the France Pavilion. The 40% holiday discount applies to this store!! They sell Dior perfumes (my favorite!) and other high end brands. It's not overpriced, it's the same as department stores, believe me I asked.

Some more merchandise discount:

• Many Operating Participants, for example, several Downtown Disney (DTD) Area stores, offer a Cast Member discount. Most are 15% Off.
• Arribas Brothers
• Basin in DTD
• Cirque du Soeil Store
• Curl at DTD
• LEGO Store at DTD
• Pop Gallery at DTD
• Fuego at DTD
• Harley Davidson at DTD
• Hoypoloi at DTD
• Something Silver (NEW)
• Little MissMatched (NEW)
• Rubio Artist
• Sosa Cigars 
• and many more!
• Locations in EPCOT
• Mitsukoshi Store at EPCOT
• Tea Caddy at EPCOT
• Givenchy Boutique at EPCOT
• Guerlain at La Signature at EPCOT
• Karamell Kuche at EPCOT
• Others: Basin White at The Grand Floridan, DisneyStore.com

NEW -> Of course, many merchandise locations within the parks give a discount such The Emporium in Magic Kingdom, Mouse Gears in Epcot, etc.

NEW--> Arribas Brothers is a store many CPs look at but don't take advantage of  . . . *sigh*. You know the fancy store with all the crystal embellished Disney items in the Mexico Pavilion, Downtown Disney and Magic Kingdom . . . yeah that's Arribas Brothers and you get 20% percent off. They sell beautiful princess tiaras (I do mean beautiful) for like $15 - 20, so do check it out. Oh and please look around the Magic Kingdom location, it's tucked away in the back -- a real hidden gem, it's like a museum. Totally gorgeous!! I discovered around the end of my program.

NEW -> Did you know that you get a merchandise discount on certain foods? For example, Sweet Spells on Sunset Blvd in Hollywood Studios will give you a discount of the their sweets such as, the infamous Candy Apples, Rice Krispies, Chocolate covered strawberries, cotton candy etc. Big Top Souenirs in Magic Kingdom Fantasyland also gives a discount on sweets and treats such as lemonade, cotton candy, candy apples, strawberries, mickey macaroons,etc.  There maybe locations in DAK and Epcot (Possibly Karamell Kuche in Epcot). It's mainly places that dub as a merch/sweet shop location.

20% off Dining & Food - Limited to table service (see image below), resort quick service dining (all resorts), Animal Kingdom (Flame Tree BBQ, Pizzafari, Restaurantsaurus, and Tusker House).

Many Downtown Disney Area restaurants, offer a Cast Member discount - Rainforest Cafe, Planet Hollywood (20% off) - I think this is a goner, House of Blues (free clubs entry and food discount), Joffery's Coffee & Tea (20% off) and more.

NEW-> Not much has changed, as far as the restaurants are concerned, and the discount amount is the same. However, I urge you to watch out for BLACK OUT DATES on dining. I got messed up 2 times because of this in the FALL.

NEW--> A huge tip: Disney uses the same supplier for a lot of their food. That means the burgers, fries, hot dogs, etc. are the same at the parks QSFB and resort QSFB locations. However, the difference is you get a DISCOUNT in ALL RESORT QSFB. So if you're on a binge to try as many unique Disney QSFB foods, have a look at the resorts. Resort dining is a lot of fun, they have so many options. I highly recommend POP Century's, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Art of Animation and the All Star Resorts quick service food courts for trying out foods.

NEW--> 50's Primetime and Sci-Fi are must do. Avoid Mama Melrose's - it so basic, it's ridiculous. I ate there with a huge group and well all agreed it was so plain. If you want great Italian - dine in the Epcot Pavilion.

Source: Found in the Facebook group.

The image above is every restaurant on property where we receive a discount. Some of the places in the World Showcase are privately owned (Tokyo Dining, Marrekesh), so you will need to ask if their is a discount read my update below. I've heard Tokyo Dining will offer a discounts. Remember: It doesn't hurt to ask if a cast discount is available.

NEW --> UPDATE ON RESTAURANT DISCOUNTS


ALL THESE EPCOT RESTAURANTS OFFER 20% OFF

• Marrekesh 
• Teppan Edo 
• Tokyo Dining 
• San Angel Inn 
• Via Napoli
• Tutto Italia
• Chefs De France
• Nine Dragons

DOWNTOWN DISNEY is now DISNEY SPRINGS ALL THESE OFFER 20% OFF

• TREX
• Raglan Road
• Rainforest
• House of Blues
• Paradiso 37
• Portabello
• Splitsville
• Wolfgang Puck Cafe 
• Wolfgang Puck Express
• Fulton's Crab House
• Ghiradelli
• Bongos - May be closing??
• Cookes of Dublin

Earl of Sandwich is 10%OFF

NEW--> MISC - OTHERS

• Animal Kingdom's Yak & Yeti Resturant (NOT THE QUICK SERVICE) - 20% OFF & MERCH
• Boardwalk's Big River Grille - 20% OFF
• Coronado Springs - Springs Food - 20% Off
• Rainforest Cafe at Animal Kingdom - 20% OFF FOOD & MERCH

NEW --> Some downtown Disney restaurants offer discount on their Merchandise. Paradiso 37. House of Blues, Bongos Earl of Sandwich Cookes of Dublin, TREX, Raglan Road and Rainforest Cafe all offer a discount of merchandise to cast members.

Seasonal discounts on food are available see the picture below to see the discount doubled to 40% on table service locations across property.

NEW--> Again, if you're going to dine out. Please take advantage of the 40% Cast Dining because it will save you some serious cash. I learned from another CP, that Grand Floridian Cafe is not to be missed and you can eat there on the cheap with this 40% discount. This list changes of restaurants usually never changes, just the dates but still be on the lookout.

NEW--> OKAY, please do yourself a favor and eat at Whispering Canyon, it's a wonderful experience and so much fun. Not to mention Wilderness Lodge is so beautiful. Sanaa's and Jiko's are a must do, and I've heard this from many CP's. Artist Pointe is top of the line according to guest, and ESPN Club is a lot of fun with great food and apparently they TV's in the bathroom stalls. HA!

Source: Found this in the Facebook group.

NEW --> Kouzzina's by Cat Cora's is closed and has been replaced with another restaurant. I can't remember the name (bleh).

Disney Dining Plan Discounts

Discounts for Disney Dining Plan are released throughout the year. The Weekly DCP Newsletter will notify you via email when the discount is available for Cast Members. You can also access the HUB and see if there are any discounts available. Also calling the Reps on Disney Reservation Hotline will help in finding out if the discount is available.

It's usually 15% off the price, but can be higher . . . possibly up to 50% off. I've seen $35.00-40.00 after the discount is applied to your plan.

Resort Discounts

50% off Cast Members - The Cast Member must be staying in the room to receive this discount.
40% off Friends & Family - You DO NOT need the Cast Member to stay with you when using this discounts.

Seasonal Discounts - The room discount can jump up to 60% off rates during the Christmas Holidays.

NEW--> Here's a good rule of thumb, if the hotel rooms are heavily discount like over 50% then the dining plan will most definitely be discounted. Having a Dining Plan is SOOOOOOOOOO worth it.

For 3 adults, we pay 100 per person for 3 days.

We totaled all of our dining and it would've been $600+ for all 3 of us for 3 days. We ate at Teppan Edo, Le Chefs de France, Katsura Grill, Hollywood Brown Derby, Backlot Express, and Be Our Guest - Lunch. We also got snacks!!

NEW--> Please, please, please call the Disney Cast Reservation line, to get the optimal discount of dining and hotel. Also, you may need to speak with more than one cast member to achieve certain results, I experienced this first hand with my booking. Also when I booked for dining, I was given a discount during a peak season (beginning of MAY).

Entertainment

• AMC Theatres at Downtown Disney - $1 Off matinee, $3 off adult evening, $4 off shows after 11 pm - TUESDAYS shows are $4 off evening tickets all day
• AMC DineIn Theatres - $2 Off Adult matinee, $4 Off adult evening, $5 off shows after 11pm
• Jellyrolls at Disney Boardwalk - You get FREE ENTRY & Free POPCORN
• House of Blues Club Downtown Disney - No more Service Sunday's
• Richard Petty Driving Experience - 50% off for Cast Members - This will be gone soon to make room for parking! :(
• Characters in Flight Downtown Disney - $15 for Adults - $10 for Kids - 20% off Merch
• plenty more . . . 

NEW --> About AMC Dine IN Theatre - You do not get a discount on the food here, just tickets, and even the employees don't even get a discount (yes an employee told me this). It was a cool experience with pretty good food but pricey.

NEW --> Jellyrolls is SOOO worth it, yall!! DO IT! It's free entry for cast members - MUST BE 21!! Get a large red 16-18 ounce solo cup of Sex on The Beach (i think that's name- pretty sure though) for $7 and there's FREE Popcorn ALL NIGHT (help yourself). Plenty of seating. It's free to request songs, but peple give $1 to hear there favorite songs. It's so lively and fun!! This a CHEAP Activity for CPs. If you don't drink, it's a completely free activity - you can get in free and eat free popcorn all night while hearing your favorite jams.

Recreation

• Splitsville at DTD - Great discount offered throughout the year - I believe we paid $10 for an hour - this is cheap for Downtown Disney
• Tri-Circle D Ranch at Fort Wilderness - Around $23 for 1 -1.5 Hours for Cast Members (there's set times 1 and 2:30pm ONLY) or just look at horses - so pretty 2 Hour 
• WDW Mini Golf - 50 Off Around $7-8 per course (There are at 2 - Fntastia -- 2 Winter/Summer) for Cast Members 
• Sammy Duvall Water Sports at Contemporary - $20 to drive a boat for 1 Hour in Seven Seas Lagoon - 30% off wake board, tubing, water ski, and parasail. 10% Off all Year on personal watercraft rentals
• Wilderness Back Trail Adventure - 2 Hour scenic tour on a segway - 45+tax for cast members
• WDW Golf - Fun, There is a discount - do this with a min. of 4 people or get a randomly placed with another couple (this can turn out bad)
• WDW Guided Bass Fishing - It's $170  plus tax for an excusrion

NEW :: PLEASE READ --> OMG Please take the time during your program to visit the Contemporary to participate in their water sport activities. It is DIRT CHEAP for cast members.

Me and my friend paid $20 to DRIVE a boat through the Seven Seas Lagoon. This is the water surrounding MK Resorts which is Contemp, Wilderness, Fort, Poly, & Grand.

We also went in front of MK where the Ferry Boat docks are, that is an amazing photo op! We could go anywhere!!! We also caught a glimpses of the abandoned Disney water park and the abandoned Discover Island.

This was in  an 1 hour, you can drop your boat off at any MK Resort with a dock! Do note that one of you (it's a 2 person boat) needs a license. They also have jet skis and other fun things like tubing and parasailing ALL FOR A DISCOUNT!!! Don't let the prices discourage you, DO IT!!

NEW--> ALSO Go Horesback riding for 1 - 1.5 hour at Tri-Circle D Ranch for just $20. IT'S WORTH IT! Sorry for all the caps! But these are Disney Hidden Gems, that many CPs don't visit. The horses are beautiful and it's a ton of fun. Great for a beginner and even experienced riders will appreciate the experience. You must call to reserve through the Rec Line and then pay once you get there.

NEW--> DO the Mini Golf Courses! It's like $7-8 for cast members. I had the best night of my life Mini Golfing at the Fantasia course, in the rain with music and you can hear Fantasmic. It was so much fun!! I also went to the Summer/Winter Course and it was a great way to start our day before we headed to Blizzard Beach (they're right next to each other - you can Talk). Mini-Golf is a great late night activity because the course close at 11PM!!! However, be mindful of the Tran-stars schedule. I recommend Fantasia Gardens for late nights and Winter for day trips.

Note: I do have photos of all this and will post them up.

Other Entertainment

• Disney Quest - About $20.00 for cast members.
• Blizzard Beach & Typhoon Lagoon -  After free promotions, it's 50% off during the season.

NEW--> They're getting rid of Disney Quest Mid-2016! Please, please go before it closes!!!! If you've never been before, go! You will feel like a real kid. I loved it the first time I went, and went 4 times during my program. It was $20.00 for cast members. This is a great place to go ALONE because there are so many games and so much to do. Experience it!!

NEW--> Okay, let me just say I LOVE TYPHOON LAGOON. I lived in that park on my day off. SPRING CPs it's FREE ENTRY , usually between Jan-March and FALL CPs it's usually FREE Sep-Nov. There will definitely be FREE Entries - just got to know when. Blizzard is also free entry, it's fantastic if you LOVE slides, but the lazy river is only 3 FT!! BOO!

NEW---->>> Walt Disney World Tours

Disney offers guided tours through the parks and around the property. Cast Member's can attend the tour for a huge discount. Check out some of the tours and pricing.

Magic Kingdom Tours

• Backstage Magic Tour - 7.5 Hours - 35% off for cast - regular price is $249+ so about $162+tax for cast members
• Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour - 4-5 Hours 50% off for cast - regular price $79+tax so $39.50+tax for cast
• The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour - 3 Hours 50% Off for cast - regular price $55+tax - so $27.50+ tax for cast
• Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour - 2.5-3 Hours - 50% Off for cast - regular price $30 - so $15+ tax for cast

There's also . . . a 2 hour Disney Family Magic tour for children. It's 50% off - 34 regular price.

Epcot Tours

• Dolphins in Depth - Runs Tues - Thurs - 50% Off for cast - regular price $199+tax - so $99 for cast members
• Epcot Dive Quest -  Runs Tues - Sat - Must be dive certified - 50% off for cast - regular price $175 - so  $87.50+tax for cast 
• Epcot Seas Aqua Tour - Runs Tues - Sat - 50% Off - regular price $140 - so $70 for cast members

There's also . . . . Yuletide Fantasy (2.5 hours duing holidays only 84 reg price - 35% for cast), Behind the Seeds ( 1 hour tour 50% off for cast 20 for adults), and Undiscovered Future World (4 Hr - reg price 49 - 50% off for cast).

Animal Kingdom Tours

• Wild Africa Trek - 3 Hour Tour ( Highly Recommended by other CPs!!) 50% off for cast - regular price $189 - so $for cast - must book 2 weeks ahead - meal included
• Backstage Safari - Possibly 1-2.5 Hours - 50% off for cast - regular price $72 - so 36+tax for cast

NEW ----> Spa, Fitness & Salon Specials 

Spas - Receive at 20% Discount on Select Services

• Disney's Grand Floridian - Cast discount for services that are 50 minutes or greater.
• Disney's Saratoga Springs  -Cast discount for services that are 50 minutes or greater.

Fitness Centers - Receive at 20% Discount on Select Services

• DAK Lodge - Zahanati Massage & Fitness
• Coronado Springs - La Vide Massage & Fitness Center
• The Villas at Wilderness Lodge - Sturdy Branches Massage & Fitness Center
• Yatch & Beach - Ship Shape Massage & Fitness Center
• Contemporary - Olympiad Massage & Fitness Center

Salon  - Receive at 20% Discount on Select Services and Merchandise

• Grand Floridian - Ivy Trellis Salon
• Yacht & Beach - Ship Shape Salon
• Coronado Springs - Casa de Belleza Salon

Special Occassion

• Disney Floral & Gifts - offers 10% for cast members
• Fairytale Weddings - Offers special pricing and discounts
• Disney Honemoon Registry - Offers complimentary service to couples planning a Disney honeymoon - help with registry setup, planning and information.

NEW-->Misc. Discounts

Pets - Best Friends Pet Car - Offers 20% off for cast members for boarding, day care, and camp / 20% off merchandise / 10% off grooming services

Hess Gas Stations - 10% Off Prepare foods, coffees, and coke freestyle machines for Magic Kingdom, DTD, and Boardwalk locations ONLY. $2 Carwash at Boardwalk Location.

Disney Cruise Line - Offers discounts 40-60% off cruises. You must look under the HUB under the "the Cast" tab. There's also a number to call for booking. It's hard for CPs to take advantage of this because of scheduling and getting days off. Many of these cruises are still in the thousand dollar price range but some can be $250-350, but you must book it immediately.

Adventures by Disney - This Disney's international tour company for places in Asia, Europe and beyond. There are discount located on the HUB for these experiences. I've seen trips for under $1500 for a week!

AAA Car Care Center - This outside Magic Kingdom - Cast Members receive a 10% discount on all services and tires. Free towing and shuttle services for cast members!

NEW-->WDW Cast Salons

These are salons for cast members ONLY! Each is located in Epcot and Magic Kingdom only. Walk-ins are welcome! They are Magic Kingdom Kutters and Epcot Hairport International - here is the price break down:


Magic Kingdom Kutters & Epcot Hairport International Price

Ladies:
Shampoo & Blow Dry $15
Shampoo, Cut & Style $24+
Bang Trim $5

Gentlemen:
Shampoo & Blow Dry $15
Shampoo, Cut & Style $20+
Mustache & Beard Trim $5

Waxing Eyebrows, Face, Lips or Chin $10
Waxing Full Face $25

Loyal Client Rewards - After the 8th haircut, the 9th is free!

OFF-PROPERTY DISCOUNTS

Source: DCP App on Google Play

• AUTO
• AAA Car Care at Disney World
• AAA SOuth
• Don Auto Service
• Tropical Ford
• Tuffy Auto Service Center
• and more . . . . .

• BEAUTY
• Envy Hair Salon
• The Nail Place
• Paris Hair & Nail Salon
• Cast Salons
• I Love Nails & Day Spa
• Disney Resort Spa Locations

• MERCHANDISE
• American Tourister Luggae
• Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlets
• Rayovac
• Ron Jon Surf Shop
• The Premium Outlets - Vineland Ave.
• Wyland Galleries of Florida
• The Florida Mall
• and more . . . .

• RESTAURANTS
• Benihana
• CiCi's Pizza
• IHOP
• Pizza Hut
• Subway
• Citrus Garden Vineland Ave
• Fat Tuesday
• Chik-fil-A
• Wendy's
• Sweet Tomatoes
• TGI Friday's
• Sea Dog Brewing Company
• Panera Bread on Vineland Ave.
• and many more . . . .

• RESORTS/HOTEL
• Buena Vista Suites
• Doubletree Beach Resort Tampa Bat
• NYC-JC Suites
• Orlando Vista Hotel
• USAHotels.com
• and more . . . .

• TECH/ELECTRONICS
• AT&T
• Apple
• Sprint
• Tmobile
• and more . . . .

Cast Only Shops & Warehouses

From the Disney College Program Guidebook:

Cast Members enjoy a large variety of discounts. A complete listing can be found on The Hub on the Cast tab. Special discounts also are listed in Eyes & Ears. The following are just a sample of the services and offerings.

Company D

There are six Company D locations at the Walt Disney World Resort, and all offer a wide variety of products, personal services and Cast-exclusive merchandise. Remember, a valid Walt Disney World ID is required for all transactions at Company D.

Discount tickets

• Tickets for area attractions such as SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, are available for Cast Members at reduced prices. Tickets can be purchased at Company D.


You get 10% off WDW regular tickets prices, that's if you run out of Main Gates.

• Discounted movie tickets are available at Company D for AMC Theatres and Regal Cinemas.

• Tickets to sporting events may also available during various times of the year. Visit The Hub>>Cast tab to see current offerings.

Walt Disney World Resort experiences

• Discounts on admission to DisneyQuest ® Indoor Interactive Theme Park

• Discounts on miniature golf at Disney’s Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course and Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course

• Discounted La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil ® tickets are made available 30 minutes prior to each show, if available

Property Control

Property Control is a division of the Walt Disney World Finance department. Here, items that are no longer used on property are sold, reissued or recycled. Cast Members with a valid Walt Disney World Cast ID have the opportunity to purchase these items at low prices.

Items include computer components, office furniture, lawn furniture, mattresses, holiday decorations, home furnishing, television sets, clock radios and plants.

 (*Items are not always guaranteed in stock. Stock may differ daily.)

Property Control is located adjacent to the Magic Kingdom Cast Member parking lot across from the Disney University.

Merchandise Liquidation

The Merchandise Liquidation division handles the markdown phase of discontinued merchandise.

Guests enjoy great deals on character merchandise like adult and children apparel, stationary, toys, seasonal merchandise, plush, houseware items, pins, jewelry, hats and accessories. (Items are not
always guaranteed in stock.)

Items can be reduced up to 70 percent off the original retail price. Cast Members with a valid Walt Disney World Cast ID receive 10 percent off the already low prices. Liquidation Operations consists of several
locations throughout the state of Florida. Locations include:

• Cast Connection adjacent to the Magic Kingdom Cast parking lot - This is the best location!!!

For the convenience of our Walt Disney World Cast, Merchandise Liquidation operates Disney’s Cast Connection at Property Control which gives Cast Members these same great deals inside Building 1. Cast Members may also shop inside Building 2 where less-than-perfect merchandise is sold at low prices. The location also offers a variety of grocery items for Cast Members to purchase at very affordable prices.

• Cast Connection is located adjacent to the Magic Kingdom Cast Member parking lot across from the Disney University.


Other Locations

• Disney’s Character Warehouse at the Orlando Premium Outlet Mall on International Drive
• Disney’s Character Warehouse at Premium Outlet Mall on Vineland Ave.

Special Events & Offers

• Special events such as craft fairs, discounted jewelry sales, book fairs and more are held across property.

• Travel – Cast Activities occasionally offers special trips, such as outings to football games in Tampa, museums in Fort Lauderdale, and even trips to Disney theme parks outside of the United States.

• Instructional programs – Classes may include American Sign Language, guitar lessons, scuba classes, Weight Watchers, and karate and yoga classes.

• Sports – Join league competition in softball, volleyball, basketball, golf and more.

• Special event tickets – We know we’re not the only show in town. Company D often sells discounted tickets to events such as the Orlando Broadway Series, Disney on Ice, Atlanta Braves Spring Training games and

There are also discounts on Disney Interactive Tours. There are Cast Clubs - Like Theatre, Radio, etc.

Disney College Program Perks

Disney Housing Events - Pool Parties, Welcome Events, Asian Market Trips, Festivals, Contest, Talent Shows, Grocery Bingo, Cool Bean Cafe and more.

Alumni Speaker Series - Meet current leaders in different parts of management across property who began their careers in the Disney College Program. All majors are welcome. Register will be posted in the DCP Newsletter.

Free Items - Free items such a reusable bags, water bottles, laundry bags and more just for DCPers.

Volunteer Opportunities - Two days a week, Program Cast Members are invited to travel to the Give Kids the World Village to lead activities with the children and families vacationing there. Travel provided. 

You can also work events like Spring Fling for cast member or be a Sports Enthusiast at marathons.

Disney Career Courses - My Disney Career Series classes are offered to Disney College and International College participants throughout the semester. These classes are designed to help students prepare for the business world.

Examples Classes: Acing the Interview / Image Excellence/ Resume Writing Basics/ Networking 101/ Personal Branding/ Advanced Resume Writing 

Our Own TV Channel - "Housing the Magic" is tv channel with latest information on special events, discounts, opportunities, housing notifications, and emergency information.

Surveys - All programs participants are welcome to attend the “Food for Thought Friday”, which will be held once a month at clubroom Thirteen501 at Vista Way. Cast Members can share their opinions and concerns about their program, have their questions answered, meet new friends, and enjoy light refreshments. 

You may also receive a survey about your experience with check-in, the application process and more.

Notifications - You receive notifications in your email about professional internships application deadlines,  maintenance notices, upcoming inspections, extensions information, and much more.

Contest - Giveaways and more freebies offered by housing by answering trivia questions and playing games.

Note: Screenshots are taken from 2008  Disney College Program emails. They are not up-to-date and merely provide examples, ideas, and visuals on the program discounts, perks, emails, and notices.

The page should be used as an example of cast members discounts, actual perks will be posted in the HUB, The Communicator, The Incredible Discount Book, Eyes & Ears, and the Disney Internships Weekly Newsletter.

Read More

Bucket List: Fireworks at Polynesian & Roommate Bonding

The same day (Jan 22nd) me and my suite mate went back to the apartment to do  . . . something. Haha! Somehow, my other roommates convinced us to go to Polynesian (AGAIN) and watch the fireworks. This is where a lot of people where hanging out and meeting up via Facebook and stuff like that. So, we headed for Polynesian.

We got to the Poly and started looking around (again) and decided to get some sweets before the fireworks started. Me and my suite mate decided not to get dole whips again since we've already had one earlier in the day. I settled for a mini mouse cupcake which I actually dropped in the sand.

Of course, Disney cast members save the day and gave me a replacement right in time for the fireworks.

The fireworks started and there was no sound so we made up our own "Wishes" song along with the other viewers at the beach (all DCP folks) and got along just dandy.

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Bucket List: Epcot Resorts & Boardwalk

Okay, so this happened 2 days into the program. Man, I was super busy. I arrived on Jan 20th, Jan 21st was my Bday, and Jan 22nd we resort hopped and watched fireworks.

Haha! Yes, I  remember now, we hit up the Polynesian and somehow in the same day ended up at the Boardwalk Resorts (Epcot Resorts).

We hit up the Boardwalk Resorts, Swan & Dolphin (which are two separate resorts), and the Yacth & Beach Club (also, two separate resorts). These are all considered Epcot Resort Hotels. This is because there is a bridge connecting all of them and you can enter Epcot from this bridge/walkway. It hard to explain without a map or whatnot. Epcot is the only resort with 2 entrances. This is key when you wanna see the Fireworks and trying to avoid a crowd or walking through Epcot.

Here's a few snaps from that day.

This a picture of a heavenly creation called Mac & Cheese bites that me and my roommate became obsessed with, they are so good. You get them from the Boardwalk stands. You will see it and smell it. Fantastic!!! No discount here so we didn't lose out on anything. Remember, we have no blue ID's yet.

 I suppose I ordered a pull pork because it was super cheap. It was delicious and I split it with my roomie to save money.

This is the gorgeous Dolphin & Swan hotel. It's beautiful! Don't be afraid to explore it. I found a serious DCP secret spot (chill spot) by exploring this hotel. I will post this super secret in another post.

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Bucket List: Magic Kingdom Resorts & the Wedding Pavilion

So, I was suppose to make an individual post for each item, I completed on my bucket list. I did A LOT on bucket list (I think).

In the photo above: this is one of the walkways to other resorts or the monorail.

Well, one of the first things I did was . . . (*drum roll*) . . . Resort Hopping. I can't remember the exact order of everything I did, but I know we did the Polynesian first.

I was very limited on money and did not want to spend what I had. I came with less than $115. My roommate was also limited on funds, so we started doing free stuff. We were in that slow phase where you don't have your Blue ID or any money, so no parks or super expensive stuff for us.

 We walked around, found Hidden Mickey's, and got dole whip.

Me chilling at the Polnesian inside the lobby before all the construction. Notice, I'm wearing a jacket. It was cool in Florida, but not freezing.

We decided to head for the Polynesian Resort, Wedding Pavilion, and then the Grand Floridian. For those that don't know. These are located right next to each other. There is path that will take you from the Polynesian to Grand, and in between is the beach where you watch wishes then the Wedding Pavilion.

These are just a few photos, I have so many!! Check out a few:

Grand Floridian

The Wedding Pavilion

Walk Way In Between Poly and Grand. Wedding Pavilion in shot,

Polynesian Pool

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Fun Stuff: The Disney Monorail Pub Crawl

Yes, another crawl and drinking game. Based on the all time favorite and extremely popular EPCOT "Drink Around the World" game. This version of the games takes you around the Monorail between three beautiful Disney resorts: The Grand Floridian, The Contemporary, and the The Polynesian Resort.

It may not seem like much of a challenge compared to the EPCOT DATW game because it's only three stops. However, each resort offers a lounge type experience with an array of cocktails and mixers with plenty of food at your disposal.

Just sitting in one of the fancy lounges can make you forget you're on a CRAWL! The atmosphere of each location can also get you caught up by, socializing with your friends or family, and forgetting where you are at the moment. In essence, this crawl is a bit more difficult than at first sight.

A review from the ALT Disney World, 

Outer Rim, Contemporary

First - the Outer Rim, a small lounge on the Contemporary’s fourth floor concourse, overlooking Bay Lake. The Outer Rim serves the standard WDW cocktail menu, the Jetsons-style standby, the Blue Glow-tini, is all perfectly appropriate. Admittedly it’s over-priced at about $10, but we wanted to set the mood for our pub crawl, so the Glow-tini was the order of the day. If you haven’t experienced one, the Glow-tini is a concoction of Skyy Infusions Citrus Vodka, Peach Schnapps, Blue Curacao and pineapple juice, lit from within by a souvenir glow cube. 

Glow-tini Cocktails

The Outer Rim (open 4:30-10:30 p.m.) isn’t the most memorable stop on the Pub Crawl, so feel free to make it a quick stop. If you’re meeting friends, it’s a handy meeting place.

The Contemporary has two other options for pub crawling: the Wave bar and the California Grill lounge. The Wave bar is nice and quiet. The California grill can be just the opposite. It’s a madhouse for at least an hour before the fireworks and 30 minutes or so after. If you miss that window, though, you can still enjoy the beautiful view -- and you may even get a seat to rest your weary feet. If you got an early start and you can fit in a fourth stop before 10, when both these places close, you can end your night with a fourth stop back at the Contemporary and get a taste of a second bar. 

Tambu Lounge, Polynesian

We timed our trip so we could catch the fireworks from the Polynesian. If you wander down to the beach, there’s a beautiful view from there.

The lounge is bustling and crowded, but in a festive way. It may be hard to find a seat, but it will be worth the wait. 

The Lapu Lapu Drink

Tambu is the rare Disney lounge that actually does have a signature drink: the lapu lapu - made with Myers’s Original Dark rum and tropical fruit juices topped with Bacardi 151 rum and served in a flamboyant fresh pineapple, complete with cocktail umbrella. This is a serious drink and worth the money.

I ordered another drink that isn’t exclusive to the Tambu Lounge but seemed suitable to the environment: The Eco-tini. Made of VeeV Acai Liquor, Triple Sec, Agave Nectar, ginger and lemon juice, this sexy martini is served with a souvenir Acai seed bracelet. Very cute.

If you want to linger, the Tambu Lounge can be the last stop on the Monorail crawl with the last call at midnight.

Mizner’s Lounge, the Grand Floridian 

It would be easy to sink into one of the plush chairs at Mizner’s and stay all night, so it’s a good thing we made this our last stop.

Mizner’s demands old-fashioned libations, like Old-Fashioned, bourbon or scotch on the rocks. It’s also a fabulous place for a brandy or a spiked coffee. Mizner’s also has a great wine list, if that’s your thing. So forget the canned cocktail menu and let the spirits move you.

If you get there by 10pm, you also can enjoy the Grand Floridian’s jazz band or take in the fireworks from the beach.

You can linger at Mizner’s late into the evening -- until about 11 p.m. closing time -- The bar at Citrico's is also a great alternative option.

All these locations has view of Wishes at the end of the night.



SOURCES: http://altdisneyworld.blogspot.com, http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2009/03/26/monorail-crawl/,http://watch-me-eat.blogspot.com/2013/01/monorail-bar-crawl.html

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Fun Stuff: Creating a Disney Bucket List

This is a little guide to creating a Disney college program bucket list. I mentioned in my post on budgeting in the DCP about creating a bucket list, a list items you want to do, during your Disney College Program.

This list is taken from CMKaela. She created an ultimate bucket list with over 200+ things to do while on your program. So, we are going to use her list as a template.

How to create bucket list for the Disney College Program?

Creating A Bucket List

1. Copy/Paste the list below and use a text editor like Word, it will keep your numbering even if you delete items.

2. Read over each section and delete the items you do not want on your list. Do this for each section.

3. After deleting items from each section, you list is done!! Unless . . . .

Additional steps for budgeting . . . .

If you're trying to budget your activities or tally up how much money you would like to bring:

4.. Research each items and note the cost of each activity.

Prices can be found online, on Disney fan blogs, forums, official websites, and more. Food prices for things like Dole Whips are available online. Alcohol prices are also available online. The cost of certain merchandise can be found online at the Disney Store website.

5.. After noting each activity price, total up your amount. This will be the estimated total of how much money you'll need to do each activity during the program.

Extra Step - More Advance Planning

6.. Mark activities you can do either: alone, you + 1 person, or a group.

7.. Create a calendar and each month list activities (do the"alone" activities first) you can do per month.

Plus 1 person and group activities are harder to plan in advance but not impossible. But doing the "alone" activities on the calendar can guarantee they'll be done.

Resources & Research for Your Bucket List :

Prices for Food:

All Ears :: Menus - They have one of the most up to date menu prices across the net. No restaurant or dining location including snack carts.

LINK: http://allears.net/menu/menus.htm

Disney Food Blog :: Restaurant Guide - They offer the best reviews with photos and pricing for every single restaurant on Disney property excluding some snack/food carts.

LINK: http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/disney-world-restaurants-guide/

All Ears :: Restaurant Directory - A complete directory of every restaurant, food court, and dinner show available on Disney property with reviews and tips from actual guest.

LINK: http://land.allears.net/reviewpost/showcat.php?cat=32

WDW Info :: Complete Menu List - This is a complete list of menus and prices. You can use this site to compare prices with other sites. They don't offer much on snack cartss, but prices are the same across property.

LINK: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/disneydining.cfm

Disboard WDW Info :: Menu Search Tool - This forum offers a search tool for finding restaurants across property that fit what you're looking for in a meal.

LINK: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningmain.cfm

Official Disney Blog :: Disney Dining - Check out their official blog to see the newest treats and foods available at Disney.

LINK: http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/category/disney-dining/

Prices for Alcohol:

Party Through the Park :: Alcohol Prices - This site is the best on the net for drink prices in MULTIPLE parks that includes Universal and Sea World.


LINK: http://www.partythroughtheparks.com

All Ears :: Menus - In addition to the extremely accurate menu listings, they also include all drinks prices.

LINK: http://allears.net/menu/menus.htm

Orlando Informer :: How to Save Money on Drinks at Disney - The article covers some basic tips on how to save money on drinks at Disney World. Very good information.

LINK: http://www.orlandoinformer.com/2012/tips-for-saving-money-when-drinking-around-disney-world/

The DCP Life :: Drink Around the World Game - This article covers the drinking around the world game - how to play, tips, articles, resources and more.

LINK: http://www.thedcplife.blogspot.com/2013/12/fun-stuff-epcot-drink-around-world-game.html

Prices for Merchandise:

Official Disney Blog :: Pre-Arrival - See items before they hit the stores. The arrival of new collections, apparel and other merchandise are announced on the official WDW blog sometimes with price ranges.

LINK: http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/?cat=4

DisneyStore.com :: The Official Store - This is the absolute best place to create your merchandise wish-list and get price information.

LINK: http://www.disneystore.com/

DisneyStore Blog :: Sales & Discounts - See the latest promotions on Disney Store merchandise.

LINK: http://blog.disneystore.com/

Disney Floral & Gifts :: Purchasing Gifts/Flowers at Disney - See prices on flowers, gifts sets, balloons, and other special celebration items.

LINK: http://disneyworld.disneyfloralandgifts.com/

Disney Parks Merchandise :: Official Site - The official source on authentic Disney merchandise such as vinylmations, pins, artwork and more.

LINK: http://www.disneyparksmerchandise.com/

Prices & Ideas for Orlando Activities

Viator :: Excursions & Day Trips - This site has a list of tours, events, day trips, and excursions for the Orlando area. This includes: Hot Air Balloon, Helicopter tours, Airboat, Kennedy Space Center, Gatorland, Zipline, and more. The prices for events are listed. Usually, you can go directly to the Operators site and find a cheaper prices verses buying it through the Viator site.

LINK: http://www.viator.com/Orlando/d663-ttd

TripAdvisor :: Orlando Things to Do - A list of things to in Orlando ranked by real travelers and customers.

Activities - LINK: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g34515-Activities-c25-Orlando_Florida.html

Attractions - LINK: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g34515-Activities-Orlando_Florida.html

Nightclubs - LINK: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g34515-Activities-c20-Orlando_Florida.html

Shopping - LINK: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g34515-Activities-c26-Orlando_Florida.html

Visit Orlando :: Activities Under $20 - A list of activities for under $20 in Orlando. There are even things you can do for just 5 bucks!

LINK: http://www.visitorlando.com/blog/index.cfm/2011/8/30/Activities-under-20-in-Orlando/

Skydive Space Center :: Skydiving - A unique experience for the brave. Can dive for $99.00 and up.

LINK: http://www.skydivespacecenter.com/pricing.html

Mr. Free Stuff :: Free Things to Do - 40 Free things to do in Orlando.

LINK: http://www.mrfreestuff.com/free-things-to-do-in-orlando/

Grayline Orlando :: Day Trips & Services - A lot of Cps want to see more of Orlando and take a break from Disney. However, many Cps don't have cars, so using tour services like Grayline would be amazing. It has NASCAR events, beach trips, rodeo adventures, transportation only options and more.

LINK: http://www.grayline.com/things-to-do/united-states/orlando/

Disney Parks & Resorts Resources

More resources coming soon, but for now . . .

Every Ride That Has A Fast Pass
A List of WDW Resorts
A List of All WDW Dining & Snack Locations
Recreational Activities at WDW Resort

This is an copy/paste from CMKaela's list.

General stuff

1. Be the first person on your favorite ride for the day
2. Be the last one out of the park
3. Disneybound with friends
4. Do every ride in every park at least once - yes, this includes Captain EO and Carousel of Progress
5. Do the Backstage Magic tour (THIS ONE IS INTENSE)
6. Find hidden Mickeys and take pictures of them
7. Go to all four parks in one day! you can make your own rules regarding what you have to do in each park
8. Go to Rope Drop at each park at least once
9. Go to a park by yourself!
10. Have a day where you go to the parks and don’t go on ANY rides - just take pictures and notice details you’ve never seen before
11. Have a “tourist day” - dress up ridiculously and go to the parks. I’m talking lanyards full of pins, Disney 2013 shirts, fanny packs, visors, crocs with socks, JORTS. go big or go home, balls to the wall
12. Memorize the monorail spiel
13. Pee in every bathroom on property
14. Photobomb people ahahahahahahah
15. Pick a comfy spot in the park and people-watch (I suggest the rocking chairs in Liberty Square)
16. Pick one ride and see how many times you can ride it in one day (I suggest TTA)
17. Plan and go on a scavenger hunt in the park
18. Play hide and seek in the park
19. Play in the parks in the rain
20. See all the live entertainment (JAMMitors, Dapper Dans, Citizens of Main Street, DHS streetmosphere, Royal Majesty Makers, Voices of Liberty, Main Street Philharmonic, etc etc etc)
21. See every show and parade
22. See if you can get your family or friends from home to visit you!
23. Start a line somewhere for no reason and see how many people follow you
24. Stay at a park from open to close - this is a LOT harder than it sounds because you start winding down and longing for naptime around 5 so head to a nap-nap ride for a rest
25. Take a nap on a ride (Spaceship Earth is my fav)
26. Take a photo in front of each park’s ~landmark~
27. Watch a custodian paint a water picture
28. Watch Illuminations, Wishes, and Fantasmic all in one night (this might be impossible idk)

Magic Kingdom

1. Become a Galactic Hero on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
2. Buy a balloon on Main Street and take cheesy pics
3. Curtsy to the princess at the fountain
4. Dance in the Club 626 dance party
5. Dance with your favs in Move it! Shake it! Celebrate it!
6. Find all the hidden Pascals near Rapunzel’s Tower NO CHEATING
7. Find PUSH the talking trash can
8. Frontierland Hoedown!!
9. Get a log all to yourself on Splash
10. Get pirate-ified at Pirates League
11. Get pixie dusted from Castle Couture or Sir Mickey’s
12. Get the perfect spot RIGHT in front of the castle to watch Celebrate the Magic and Wishes
13. Get your hair cut at the barber shop
14. Go to the park super early and get a picture on empty Main Street
15. Go to Main Street in the morning and talk to all the street performers
16. Have a part in Enchanted Tales with Belle
17. Have your joke read at Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
18. Learn the choreography to a parade
19. Make a wish in the wishing well
20. Obligatory picture with the Partners Statue
21. Play Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom
22. Ride all 3 mountains (Space, Splash, Big Thunder) in one day
23. Ride Dumbo, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder, or TTA during Wishes
24. Ride Space Mountain with the lights on (I’m putting this on here bc everyone always wants to do it but I’m also gonna burst your bubble right now and say you probably won’t be able to unless you work on Space - not that you should want to anyway because IT IS TERRIFYING)
25. Say goodnight to George at Pirates
26. Sing along with Dream Along With Mickey/the parades
27. Stay til park closing and experience the Kiss Goodnight (one of my favorite FAVORITE things in all of WDW)
28. Take a behind the scenes tour of the park
29. Take the ferryboat instead of the monorail
30. Try pulling the sword from the stone in Fantasyland
31. Watch the Flag Retreat
32. Watch the Trolley Show
33. Watch the Welcome Show
34. Watch Wishes from every different land in the park

EPCOT

1. Call (and answer) the phone booths in World Showcase (I don’t actually know if this is a thing anymore)
2. DiveQuest
3. Do the Behind the Seeds tour
4. Get a passport from Guest Relations and visit every country at WS to get it stamped
5. Go on the best ride in the park aka Spaceship Earth
6. Pick a pearl in Japan
7. Ride both green and orange sides of Mission Space
8. Sit in the very front and middle seat on Soarin’
9. Take a picture inside of Bruce’s mouth at The Seas with Nemo and Friends
10. Take the Around the World Segway tour
11. Try Beverly at Club Cool

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

1. Be the Rebel Spy on Star Tours
2. Do the animation class (seriously I could spend all day here)
3. Experience Character Palooza!!
4. Fill an entire elevator on Tower of Terror with CPs
5. Get picked as a volunteer for Indiana Jones Stunt Show
6. Get the highest score you can on Toy Story Midway Mania
7. Go on Tower of Terror during the day, night, and while it’s raining
8. Hang out with the Streetmosphere
9. Make your own lightsaber at Tattooine Traders
10. Ride Tower of Terror 13 times in a row
11. See both Fantasmic showings in the same night
12. Sit in the very front and middle at Fantasmic
13. Volunteer to be that person on the Backlot Tour
14. Walk through One Man’s Dream

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

1. Become a Wilderness Explorer
2. Check out the Backstage Safari or Wild by Design tour
3. Dance in the Harambe Village street party in Africa!!
4. Do the Wild Africa Trek
5. Find that vine chick between Africa and Asia
6. Get picked to be part of the show at Festival of the Lion King (lion section represent)
7. Go on Kali River Rapids til you are completely soaked
8. Go to the petting zoo at Rafiki’s Planet Watch
9. Ride the first Kilimanjaro Safari of the day
10. Ride Expedition Everest a bunch of times in a row

Downtown Disney

1. Design your own shirts at Design-a-Tee
2. Fill up a box of Mr. Potato Head parts at Once Upon a Toy
3. Get ice cream at Ghirardelli (don’t forget to get your free chocolate square sample)
4. Get lost in World of Disney
5. Go bowling at Splitsville
6. Go to DisneyQuest! I SWEAR YOU ALL BETTER DO THIS
7. La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil
8. Look at the beautiful artwork in Art of Disney
9. Ride the Characters in Flight balloon
10. See a movie at the dine-in theatre
11. Stroll around DTD at night
12. Visit Basin and wash your hands with the delicious smelling scrubs

Resorts

1. Archery at Fort Wilderness
2. Campfire & singalong with Chip and Dale at Fort Wilderness
3. Campfire at any of these resorts
4. Check out all the decorated resorts around the holidays (check out Tom Bricker’s guide here)
5. Explore the Boardwalk at night
6. Get a bunch of friends together and stay at a fancy resort just for one night. this is a really fun idea to do during your last week of the program or for your birthday or something
7. Get leis from the Polynesian
8. Go parasailing or jet-skiing in Bay Lake
9. Go to movie night at one of the resorts
10. Have a spa day at Saratoga Springs or Grand Floridian
11. Have tea at the Grand Floridian
12. Jellyrolls dueling piano bar on the Boardwalk! (21+)
13. Rent a boat and go around Seven Seas Lagoon or the Epcot resort area
14. Relax in a hammock at the Poly
15. Ride the resort monorail around all day just for kicks and giggles
16. Spirit of Aloha show at the Poly (can you guys tell that I really like the Poly)
17. Take a carriage ride at Fort Wilderness or Port Orleans Riverside
18. Take a resort tour
19. Visit every resort and take pictures
20. Visit the Wedding Pavilion
21. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant from the Poly
22. Watch Wishes from the beach at the Poly (with a Dole Whip), Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian, and Top of the World Lounge in Bay Lake Tower

Other Disney places

1. Check out ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
2. Learn to surf at Typhoon Lagoon
3. Play mini golf at Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland
4. Swim with sharks at Typhoon Lagoon
5. Take on Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach

Food

1. 50s Prime Time Cafe - ask for a TV table and GET A MILKSHAKE
2. Be Our Guest - you can walk up for lunch, or else you might wanna make that dinner reservation now
3. Cupcake crawl!
4. Churro in Frontierland
5. Cinderella’s Royal Table - try a walk up for breakfast or make a res
6. Dole Whip
7. Earl of Sandwich repeatedly
8. Finish the Kitchen Sink at Beaches & Cream! with friends of course
9. Go to a different restaurant every time you go somewhere
10. Go to the Confectionery and gorge yourself
11. Have lunch with an Imagineer
12. Hidden gems like Olivia’s or Grand Floridian Cafe
13. Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue!
14. Hot dog at Casey’s Corner
15. LeFou’s Brew from Gaston’s Tavern
16. Make an early-morning dining reservation for someplace inside the park (Crystal Palace cough cough). You’ll get to enter the park early for AWESOME photo ops and a good start to your day
17. Make a reservation early in your program or before you arrive for someplace fancy. when the day comes you can get dressed up all nice for a fun dinner!
18. Mickey-shaped pretzel
19. MICKEY WAFFLE
20. MICKEY PREMIUM BAR
21. Nutella waffle sandwich at Sleepy Hollow
22. OHANA
23. Sci-Fi Drive In Theatre - ask for a car table!!
24. Take pictures of all the delicious food you eat!
25. Try something from every pavilion at Epcot (or drink around the world if you’re old enough)
26. Turkey leg

Characters

1. Devote a full day (or more) to character hunting. meet as many as you can!
2. Do a character meal!!!!!! or challenge yourself and eat at EVERY character meal
3. Fill an autograph book (OR….)
4. …get the characters to sign something different! people I knew did things like a pillowcase, a tote bag, a vinylmation, or a blank canvas
5. Meet Mickey and Minnie in as many different costumes as you can
6. Meet your favorite characters while Disneybounding as them
7. Take a picture with every Disney princess

Special Events

1. Candlelight Processional (EPCOT)
2. Celebrate your birthday! or half birthday! or unbirthday! make sure you get a button and make reservations, tell your friends to request the day off! look how much fun I’m having on my birthday in France
3. Do the Holiday D-Lights or Yuletide Fantasy tour
4. Dress up for Dapper Day!!!
5. Flower & Garden Festival (March-May at EPCOT)
6. Food & Wine Festival (September-November at EPCOT)
7. Get into the spirit at the Christmas Shoppe at MK or DTD
8. Go to Limited Time Magic events even though they are usually lame
9. Go to the filming of the Christmas parade
10. Listen to the storytellers during Holidays Around the World at EPCOT
11. Meet a celebrity
12. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (MK)
13. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MK)
14. Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights (DHS)
15. Run a Disney marathon
16. Spend New Years’ at WDW
17. Star Wars Weekends (DHS)
18. Universal Halloween Horror Nights
19. Watch the MK 4th of July fireworks if you’re there - it seriously looks like it’s daytime
20. Witness a proposal! just go stand in front of the castle on Valentine’s Day you’ll see like 50

Friend things

1. Befriend someone in every housing complex
2. Find someone with a gamecube/wii/other thing and spend a night playing Mario Kart (THESE WERE SERIOUSLY SOME OF THE MOST FUN NIGHTS OF MY LIFE)
3. Get friendship bracelets with your pals or roommates from Frontierland or Harambe Village! (I got them with my poptarts)
4. Have a Disney movie marathon
5. Have a sleepover in your living room
6. Host a movie/game night with your friends and roommates!
7. Make friends with your neighbors!
8. Meet people from other states and countries
9. Take someone to the parks who has never been and spew off random trivia (this is also fun to do with friends who have been before and are just huge nerds)
10. Visit your friends at work!!!!! just don’t be obnoxious

Cast Member/CP things

1. Compete in or go to Night of Stars Talent Show
2. CP Graduation - request the day off as soon as you find out when it is
3. Get a GSF (remember when we talked about those here)
4. Give GSFs to other CMs!
5. Go to an audition for Disney Entertainment
6. Go to Grocery Bingo
7. Go to housing events! I’m serious these are so fun go to them!
8. Make a magical moment for a guest!
9. Pick up a PAC shift!
10. Pick up shifts in all the parks
11. Shop at Company D
12. Shop at Property Control and Cast Connection
13. Use your CM Discount to get TONS OF STUFF (I’m serious, once it goes up to 40% there is no turning back and you will be broke)
14. Visit Mickey’s Retreat
15. VoluntEAR

Collect…

1. FastPasses from every ride that has them! I did this one and it makes such a fun AND FREE souvenir. I also made a handy list for ya of all the rides that have them
2. Maps - they changed the maps two or three times while I was there, keep the old ones for a cool souvenir. Get the special ones from holiday events too!
3. Pin trading!! if you’re into that
4. Pressed pennies
5. The buttons they give out at the front of the park
6. Vinylmations

Buy…

1. a Disney stuffed animal or pillow pet (or several…)
2. a Duffy bear if you’re into that
3. a pair of Mickey ears and get your name on the back (or wait and use the graduation ears they give you at the end of your program!)
4. a pin from each park if you’re into that
5. a shirt from each park
6. a silhouette
7. a souvenir cup or mug
8. something from every resort …if you’re into that

Outside the parks

1. Busch Gardens
2. Check out City Walk at night
3. Discovery Cove
4. Explore the Orlando club scene (but be safe my dears)
5. GATORLAND OMG YOU GUYS PLEASE GO TO GATORLAND FOR ME
6. HARRY POTTER WORLD (yes this is a separate thing than IoA because you’ll need a whole day to take in this glory)
7. Go to the beach! Cocoa Beach and Daytona are both about an hour and a half away and Miami is about 4 hours if you wanna take a day trip
8. Go to Steak & Shake late at night after work at least once, it’s like a rite of passage
9. Islands of Adventure
10. Kennedy Space Center
11. Legoland
12. Party at House of Blues on Sunday nights
13. Sea World
14. Shop at the outlet malls across the street from the housing complexes
15. Shop at the real mall! try Florida mall or Mall of Millenia
16. Take a day trip to the beach and watch the sunset, then wake up to watch the sun rise
17. Universal Studios (maybe consider getting a Universal Season Pass?)
18. Visit Celebration, FL

Make memories

1. Cry during Wishes (and feel no shame about it)
2. Do a picture challenge like this one!
3. Get a disposable camera and take pictures throughout your program. Get it developed with you go home!
4. Have a photoshoot in the parks
5. Keep a blog or journal about your experiences (if you have time!)
6. Order personalized maps with all your favs highlighted
7. Run around the parks blowing bubbles and singing Disney songs
8. Send a postcard to your address back home from inside the park
9. Stay in the park super late past closing and take empty park photos
10. Take funny planned photos on rides
11. Take literally thousands of pictures
12. Write down all your favorite memories and put them in a jar during your program to read at the end - this is a GREAT idea and so much fun to reminisce when your program is over!

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