While we still have quite some time left in 2022 for travel, this week we saw the release of 2023 vacation packages for Walt Disney World Resort. And with all that excitement, it got me thinking of what things we are still looking forward to my predictions for the coming new year and even some things that I am predicting could return prior to 2023! So as you read this, keep in mind this is all totally my opinion and a little speculation but all in good fun! I hope you’ll agree!

Disney Dining Plan

Speaking of the release of those 2023 packages, there was one thing that didn’t make it to the party….most notably, the Disney Dining Plan. I mean, seriously Disney, when are we getting this back! In truth, I really expected it to be announced simultaneously with the release of packages, but sadly myself and about a billion other folks were left wanting on June 8!

So naturally, my mind is racing to figure out Disney’s thought process on this and how I logically think it should work in the future. First off, at this point I’m thinking it will be announced to release sometime in the fall, possibly becoming effective in November (again, this is total speculation). The late Fall and winter is a hugely popular time for food festivals, seasonal menu offerings, and special events at Disney so this would make perfect sense.

Now, the next thing I’m thinking is, will it return in its full 4 choices of glory? My answer…..no. I think Disney will likely streamline choices into two. One being a version of the Disney Dining Plan Plus as introduced prior to the pandemic. A sort of Mix and Match of quick series and table service choices and the Deluxe Dining….or as I like to refer to it as the “More than any human can consume but should while at Disney plan”. So overall, even though there was a ton of disappointment at the lack of its return, I think soon and very soon we will get that long awaited hungry folk announcement although at this point…..my crystal ball seems super foggy on the subject.

Fantasmic

Next up, Fantasmic! We have stalked, we have watched drone videos, we have been mad at theist coast for getting it first, so when are we going to see it’s return on the east coast?? In honesty, Im truly hoping for it’s return in late summer of 2022 and I know that is an optimistic wish, but it’s my blog so…just kidding, again only speculation. But I will say, that I think we can assume with great certainty that this classic nighttime show featuring all things dreams and Disney will certainly be back strong in 2023! Maybe with a few updates and brush ups, but hopefully keeping it’s main elements in tact for all of us that despise change at Disney!

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Last but not least, the one thing that folks ask about the most second only to dining is the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique! This piece of Disney’s Enchanting Extras collection is by far one of it’s most popular and rightfully so. Littles love being transformed into royalty and be able to stroll about the parks in their beautiful outfits, gowns, hairstyles, etc. It’s that magical moment that parents crave when those salon chairs turn around and their child sees themselves transformed for the first time into the character of their dreams. Let’s get real on this one though. What in the world is keeping this from reopening? My thought? Without a doubt this is a staffing issue not a safety thing. And not to mention the fact that during the time of it’s closure, lots of laid off Fairy Godmother’s have formed their own independent business near property, by coming to the resorts by appointment for in room makeovers! This ingenuity of cast is amazing but also indicates to me that Disney should have opened this activity up long ago and now may have more trouble than they bargained for bringing it up to what they will consider a fully functioning staff for its three locations. All in all, I believe this will return sometime next month but not at all locals, but again shear speculation on my part. I definitely see its full return in 2023.

So my overall take on what’s to come both in the latter part of 22 and in 2023, is good. I think as things continue to progress all these amazing things we once enjoyed at Disney will return and the magic will just be enhanced even more. If nothing, this has taught some fans that we should always be grateful for the offerings available and always be optimistic about the future! And with all that excitement, it got me thinking of what things we are still looking forward to my predictions for the coming new year