Disney Travel Agent OKC

Hi, I am Chali Francis, a travel advisor based in Oklahoma with Vincent Vacations, specializing in Disney destinations — and a proud Walt Disney World Annual Passholder!

Exciting news: the dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025 have officially been released, and now is the perfect time to start planning your fall Disney vacation.

Today I am sharing why this special event at Magic Kingdom is a must-do during fall at Disney World — and what you need to know now that ticket information is here!

Why We Love Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

One of the highlights of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025 is the chance to see Disney villains throughout the night.

Villains are rare during regular park days, so getting to meet them and watch them perform makes the party feel even more magical.

You will also have the opportunity to meet Jack Skellington and Sally — characters who only appear during this event and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

Special Treats and Exclusive Entertainment

Another reason we love this event is the exclusive party-only treats you can find around Magic Kingdom.

From sweet desserts to festive Halloween-themed snacks, there is something special around every corner — just for party guests.

You will also experience entertainment that is unique to Disney Halloween events, including:

• Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular Fireworks Show: A dazzling display of projections, music, and Halloween magic.


• Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular: A stage show where the Sanderson Sisters and other Disney villains take over Cinderella Castle for an unforgettable performance.

Hi, I am Chali Francis — a Travel Advisor based in Oklahoma, a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, and a mom who knows the ins and outs of making Disney vacations magical for families!

• Visit the Kidcot stop in any country — I recommend starting at the first country on your route!


• Pick up your free Kidcot “suitcase” — a cute Ziploc bag to hold your treasures.


• At each pavilion, find the Kidcot location and meet the Cast Member there.


• Collect your country’s Kidcot card — and sometimes, if they have time, Cast Members will even:
  
  
  
  • Write your child’s name in their native language,
  
  
  • Share a story,
  
  
  • Or teach your child a simple phrase from their home country!
  
  
  
  

• Mexico Pavilion — near the Mexico Folk Art Gallery


• Norway Pavilion — inside The Puffin’s Roost


• China Pavilion — near the exit of Reflections of China


• Germany Pavilion — inside Volkunst shop


• Italy Pavilion — outside, near La Bottega Italiana


• American Adventure Pavilion — outside, near Art of Disney


• Japan Pavilion — in the Bijutsu-kan Gallery


• Morocco Pavilion — at the Marketplace in the Medina


• France Pavilion — inside Souvenirs de France


• United Kingdom Pavilion — inside The Toy Soldier


• Canada Pavilion — at the exit of Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360

“I think we will skip EPCOT until the kids are older” is something I hear clients say often. While a lot of adults do love EPCOT for the festivals and food/drink options, it is also a great park for children! With an abundance of character meet opportunities, rides like Frozen Ever After, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, the Seas Pavilion’s amazing aquarium, to the new addition of Moana’s Journey of Water, EPCOT is a must visit park for families!
One EPCOT activity that is often overlooked is the Kidcot Fun Stops. Kidcot is a FREE discovery experience where you can collect activity cards at each of the 11 International pavilions throughout World Showcase! My daughter loves going from country to country meeting new people from different cultures and learning a bit about where they are from.


Taking part is a fun way to keep your children engaged as you experience the cultural immersion throughout the World Showcase.
Taking part in Kidcot couldn’t be easier:
Visit the Kidcot stop at any country (preferably the first on your route!) to get a Ziploc “suitcase”
Go to each country, meet the cast member at the Kidcot stop and collect Kidcot cards. Some cast members will do special things if they have time like tell a story, or write your child’s name in their native language!
You can visit all 11 countries or stop at just a few! This activity can be done at your leisure throughout the day so it is a great way to spend time while waiting on your next Lightning Lane or dining reservation!
Some of the stops are a bit “hidden” or in the back of the countries and can take some searching to locate. Bonus, this helps you see more of the area that you may have otherwise just walked past!

Where to find Kidcot Fun Stops:

• Mexico Pavilion (near Mexico Folk Art Gallery)


• Norway Pavilion (at The Puffin’s Roost)


• China Pavilion (near the exit of Reflections of China)


• Germany Pavilion (at Volkunst)


• Italy Pavilion (outside, near La Bottega Italiana)


• American Adventure Pavilion (outside, near Art of Disney)


• Japan Pavilion (in the Bijutsu-kan Gallery)


• Morocco Pavilion (at the Marketplace in the Medina)


• France Pavilion (at Souvenirs de France)


• United Kingdom Pavilion (at The Toy Soldier)


• Canada Pavilion (at the exit of Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360)

Hi! I’m Chali Francis — a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder and Travel Advisor based in Oklahoma. I specialize in Walt Disney World and Universal vacations, and I help families find the best fit for their budget, travel style, and vacation goals.

With over 25 resort hotels to choose from on Walt Disney World property, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for deluxe accommodations with monorail access or something more budget-conscious that still keeps you immersed in the magic, Disney has you covered.

Today, I want to shine the spotlight on the most affordable resort options at Walt Disney World — the All-Star Resorts. These three value resorts are packed with fun theming, larger-than-life characters, and that special Disney touch. Let’s take a closer look at each one to help you decide which is the right fit for your family.

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Why Choose an All-Star Resort?

The All-Star Resorts are Disney’s most budget-friendly accommodations, but that does not mean you are missing out on the magic. In fact, staying at an All-Star resort still gives you access to many of the same perks you will find at higher-tier Disney resorts, such as:

• Early Theme Park Entry


• Complimentary bus transportation to all four theme parks and Disney Springs


• Fun resort activities like poolside games, movies under the stars, arcades, and playgrounds


• Large themed pools (while they do not have waterslides, they are still incredibly fun and kid-friendly)


• Food courts and pool bars for convenient meals and snacks


• A compact layout — making it easy to get from your room to the lobby, pool, or bus stop without a long walk

• Toy Story


• 101 Dalmatians


• Fantasia


• The Mighty Ducks


• Herbie the Love Bug

• Easy-to-navigate resorts that are compact and walkable


• Fun and safe spaces for kids to play, swim, and explore


• All the convenience of staying onsite — no need to worry about driving, parking, or missing out on Early Entry

2026 Is a Big Year for Walt Disney World – And You’ll Want to Start Planning Now!

 

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2026 Walt Disney World vacation packages are now open for booking—yes, it is already time to plan your magical escape! I’m Chali Francis, a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder and travel advisor based in Oklahoma, specializing in Disney and Universal vacations. As part of the expert team at Vincent Vacations, I help families plan unforgettable trips to Walt Disney World with less stress and more magic. Whether you are dreaming of the parks in spring, summer, or early fall, booking early gives you the best availability and access to the magic.

One of the biggest highlights in 2026?

Kids ages 3–9 will receive a FREE Disney Dining Plan when staying at a Disney Resort hotel and purchasing a dining plan for the rest of their travel party. That means more character meals, Mickey-shaped treats, and dining freedom — without worrying about those extra meal costs for your littlest Mouseketeers.

This offer is available all throughout 2026 and can even be combined with select future promotions. That’s where I come in!

When you plan your Disney vacation with me, I do more than just help you book a resort and tickets. I monitor Disney’s promotions daily — and if a new discount becomes available for your dates, I apply it after you’re already booked. So you can lock in your dream vacation and still take advantage of deals as they’re released. That means less stress, more savings, and all the magic you’re looking for.

And let’s not forget the perks of staying at a Disney Resort hotel in 2026:

• 30-minute early entry to every theme park, every day


• Free Disney transportation (monorail, Skyliner, buses, boats)


• Free parking at resorts, parks, and water parks


• Early access to dining reservations and Lightning Lane selections


• And beginning summer 2026, free water park admission on your check-in day!

Summer is almost here, and there is nothing quite like a Walt Disney World vacation when school is out and the fun is nonstop! But this summer is going to be extra special with exciting limited-time experiences, new entertainment, and exclusive perks for Disney Resort hotel guests.

I am especially excited because I will be at Walt Disney World on May 27, 2025, for the opening day of two brand-new shows—The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After! Being there on the very first day to experience these incredible productions is going to be amazing, and I cannot wait to share all the details!

Limited-Time Summer Fun (May 27 – Sept 1, 2025)

Throughout the summer, families can enjoy kid-friendly zones, pop-up entertainment, music, dancing, and games across the parks. Magic Kingdom will have special play areas in Storybook Circus and Tomorrowland, while EPCOT will introduce Goofy’s Game Party at CommuniCore Hall—the ultimate place to cool down and play!

Plus, Disney Resort hotel guests will have the exclusive perk of early character appearances during their early park entry time, giving little ones even more magical moments right at the start of their day.

Extra Perks for Disney Resort Hotel Guests

Staying at a Disney Resort hotel always comes with perks, but this summer, select resorts will offer special character meet-and-greets with set times—a huge bonus for families wanting to plan their day! Guests at:
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort
• Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

…will have even more Disney-themed activities to enjoy, from games to movie nights under the stars. Plus, all Disney Resort hotel guests get FREE Disney Water Park admission on their check-in day—the perfect way to start a summer vacation!

The First Nighttime Parade in Nearly 10 Years!

Later this summer, Magic Kingdom will debut Disney Starlight Parade, the park’s first nighttime parade in nearly a decade! With beloved Disney characters, dazzling floats, and breathtaking lights, this is sure to be a must-see. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer!

Why You Should Visit This Summer

With so much new entertainment, exclusive resort perks, and a brand-new nighttime parade, summer 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting times to visit Walt Disney World. I am beyond excited to experience all of this firsthand—especially being there on day one of the new shows!

If you are thinking about a Disney trip this summer, let’s chat! There are some great deals available, and I would love to help you make the most of this unforgettable season at Walt Disney World.

Comparing Walt Disney World Value and Deluxe Resorts: Which Is Right for You?

Big changes are coming soon to Walt Disney World, changing the way you can plan your vacation! Genie + is being replaced by Lightning Lane Multi Pass, let's take a look at what this means for your next trip:

Lightning Lane Pass is Disney’s paid service that allows guests to skip the standby queue and more quickly ride attractions via the Lightning Lanes - replacing Genie+. Starting July 24, 2024 you can purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections up to 7 days in advance of your arrival giving you more time to plan your visit. Let's explore frequently asked questions about Lightning Lane Multi and Single Pass, how to use them, and if utilizing this service is the best choice for your Disney vacation!

What are Lightning Lane Passes?

Lightning Lane Passes are Disney World's newest paid way to skip the standby line for most rides and experiences in Walt Disney World. This is not just a renaming of Genie+, it is a complete revamping of the line 'skipping' services, allowing guests more control over planning their days at the parks. Lightning Lane Multi Pass is replacing Genie+ and Lightning Lane Single Pass is replacing Individual Lightning Lanes. This service allows you to bypass the standby line and enter the shorter 'Lightning Lane' line, eliminating much of the time you would otherwise spend waiting in line for rides, giving you more time in your day to enjoy other experiences Walt Disney World offers, like parades, character meets, and other entertainment!

What is a Lightning Lane Multi Pass?

Lightning Lane Multi Pass (LLMP) is the new service replacing Genie+. Much like Genie+ you are paying to be able to schedule a window of time for an attraction where you can skip the standby queue and enter through the Lightning Lane. Unlike Genie+ you will be able to book your selections up to 7 days prior to your arrival and select 3 different experiences. You will also receive digital downloads of select attraction photos from your day, captured with Disney PhotoPass Service. Plus, access Disney PhotoPass Lenses!

What is a Lightning Lane Single Pass?

Lighting Lane Single Passes are replacing Individual Lightning Lanes. Each park has one or two premium attractions that are not included within Lighting Lane Multi Pass and are purchased separately. You do not have to use Multi Pass to purchase these. Unlike Individual Lightning Lane, you will be able to book your selection(s) prior to your arrival. You will have the ability to make selections and pick your return window prior to purchase.

What are some of the advantages of Lightning Lane Multi Pass over Genie+?

The biggest advantage is being able to manage this pre-arrival, rather than having to wake up at 7am while on vacation to book your first selection for the day. Additionally, you can see availability and make attraction selections and pick times prior to purchase, ensuring you are happy with your initial selection(s) prior to payment. Finally, LLMP offers the ability to hold up to 3 selections at one time. After using one of your pre-booked selections, you can book additional Lightning Lane Multi Passes throughout the day, keeping a maximum of 3 active at any time.

The complimentary features of Disney Genie Service will continue to be available in the MDE app

When does the switch from Genie+ to Lighting Lane Multi Pass take place?

Starting July 24, 2024 you can purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections up to 7 days in advance of your arrival giving you more time to plan your visit.

What is a Lightning Lane?

Lightning Lanes are Disney's alternative to the standby queue, allowing guests to have a much shorter wait before experiencing an attraction. You must purchase a Lightning Lane Pass (or have DAS) to enter a Lightning Lane.

With Multi Pass, can I choose from any three Lighting Lane experiences?

Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios have a tiered system. You may pick one experience from Tier 1 and two (or all three) from Tier 2. Animal Kingdom only has one tier, and any three experiences that are available may be chosen. We talk about the different groups further down.

When can you buy Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass?

The booking window starts at different times depending on whether you are staying on site at a Disney World Resort hotel or off property:

• For guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, Lightning Lane Passes, both multi and single passes, can be purchased up to 7 days in advance of check-in, for their entire stay.


• Off property guests with date-based theme park tickets can purchase Lightning Lane passes and choose experiences and return times for the total number of valid admission days starting 3 days in advance.


• AP, who are not staying on property, and guests with other ticket types must purchase 3 days before their park visit, one day at a time.

1.  Open the MDE app, then tap the Lightning Lane Passes section on the home screen


2.  Select a date and theme park


3.  Select Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Single Pass, or both


4.  Follow all prompts to complete your purchase


5.  From the confirmation screen, you can tap “Plan another day” to purchase another pass or “View My Day” for details about your selection

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad


• Jungle Cruise


• Peter Pan’s Flight


• Space Mountain


• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin


• The Barnstormer


• Dumbo the Flying Elephant


• Haunted Mansion


• “it’s a small world”


• Mad Tea Party


• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin


• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh


•  Mickey’s PhilharMagic


• Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor


• Pirates of the Caribbean


• Tomorrowland Speedway


• Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid

• Frozen Ever After


• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure


•  Soarin’ Around the World

•  Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival


•  Journey into Imagination with Figment


•  Living with the Land


•  Mission: SPACE


•  The Seas with Nemo & Friends


•  Spaceship Earth


•  Turtle Talk with Crush

•  Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway


•  Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run


•  Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith


•  Slinky Dog Dash

•  Alien Swirling Saucers


•  Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage


•  Disney Junior Play & Dance!


•  For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration


•  Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular


•  Muppet*Vision 3D


•  Star Tours – The Adventures Continue


•  The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror


•  Toy Story Mania!

•  DINOSAUR


•  Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain


•  Feathered Friends in Flight!


•  Festival of the Lion King


•  Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!


•  It’s Tough to Be a Bug!


•  Kali River Rapids


•  Kilimanjaro Safaris


•  Naʻvi River Journey

•  Seven Dwarfs Mine Train


•  TRON Lightcycle Run

•  Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

•  Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

•  Avatar Flight of Passage

Needing a Mother's Day gift for your Disney loving Mom?

I am here with the help of Amazon to have you covered. Give her the gift of Disney in her everyday life with this list of Disney Mom gift ideas! From the scent of her favorite resort to her new favorite travel cup, browse my curated list here: https://amzn.to/3QAxLrR for ideas that will ship quickly to ensure you keep your 'Favorite Child' status!

(Earns commission from Amazon)

Planning your Walt Disney World vacation is so much fun! You've picked the perfect resort, planned your family's park outfits, secured those dining reservations, and now you're *almost* ready to go!

It is time to pack! Let's discuss some of the lesser known items to add to your suitcase that can save you some extra stress (and money if you need to purchase some of these items in the park!) I was once the queen of over-packing for trips. I have, over many vacations, narrowed down what I pack to a few essentials. Every item on this list has been a LIFE SAVER, okay that's a bit dramatic, but definitely comes in handy and we never leave home heading to Walt Disney World without this list:

1. All of the chargers: You will spend a lot of time using your phone on Disney property. From checking wait times, utilizing Genie +, and taking 1,000 photos, to searching for the closest character meet, your battery life won't last long. I suggest bringing at least one portable charger per device. If your forget your portable charger in your room, no worries! You can find fuel rod dispensers throughout the parks and can even turn used fuel rods in for charged rods!

On the subject, I always bring a USB plug charging block for my resort room. You will have outlets and USB plugs in your room but you will find they are used up quickly if you have mobile devices, Magic Band +, portable charges, your Apple (Or Samsung, I don't judge) watch, etc, and you will need the extra ports.

2. Foot and leg care: Even our best broken in shoes can make our feet and legs struggle with the miles you will walk at Walt Disney World. Blister protection during the day (Mole Skin, Anti-rub spray) and Epsom Salt Rub at night before bed are your best friends. I prefer Epsom salt rub to soak because of the convenience. Just rub it on like lotion and let it go to work

3. Medicine: It goes without saying to make sure you pack your prescription meds, but consider the medication you don't take daily at home that you could need. Anti-nausea meds, ibuprofen or Tylenol, benadryl, etc can all catch you off guard when you need it and it is much more cost effective to bring a bit of each with you than have to track it down and spend Disney prices on a small bottle!

4. Sanitizing Wipes: You may think you won't eat off the top of a trash can if that is the only spot open to set your food down while you are eating around the world. You find a just opened table at a quick service location that is a little sticky? Bring the sanitizing wipes. Even the most magical things can be a bit gross.

5. Personal Deodorant Wipes: I'm not going to elaborate, just trust me on this one

6. Ponchos: It rains in Florida. Often. Ponchos are available for purchase in the park but are more expensive than you can order online. If you want to save a little money, bring your own.

7. Sunscreen and after sun care: You do not want your trip brought down by a sunburn that could have been avoided.

8. Pop up hamper: A small pop-up hamper in your resort room will save a mess from dirty clothes while your luggage stays stored away under your bed or in the closet for extra space.

9. Tide Pen: Dole Whip and Mickey bars melt in the Florida Sun. Keep a tide pen handy so the stains don't set in on those coordinating outfits you spent so much time picking out!

10. Ziplock Bags: I can't tell you how many times Ziplock bags have come in handy on my family's Walt Disney World trips. They are great to store cookies from the cookie stroll in EPCOT or the rest of that Mickey shaped Rice Krispie treat that looked like you could totally finish it. You can use them to pack swimsuits if they don't dry all the way before it's time to head home, protect your phone on water rides, and many other uses I probably haven't even discovered yet!

I hope this list helps you narrow down some of the tough packing decisions and gives you some helpful packing ideas! If you would like assistance in planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, I am always just an email away!