Geekin' On WDW

We spend this episode with Scott and Karen from the Mickey Files podcast, talking about recent Disney World visits, park favorites, and their day together at Epcot.

After 20 years away, Curtis returns to Universal Orlando to experience Epic Universe for the first time and shares what surprised him most, how it compares to Walt Disney World, and why Disney still feels like home.

This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we’re lacing up the running shoes, grabbing a beignet, and heading into a Disney trip that started with runDisney Springtime Surprise weekend — but quickly became about so much more than miles and medals. Curtis is joined by three Geekin’ family favorites — Holly, Laura, and Heidi — for a fun, relaxed, and very Disney Geek-style trip report filled with race stories, resort time, lounges, surprise meetups, food talk, cruise talk, and one unforgettable green wig. Because when Holly shows up dressed as Disgust from Inside Out for a runDisney race, you know we’re off to a good start. Planning Your Next Disney Adventure? If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation and some Epic Universe… My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners. Whether you’re booking Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond… They’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation from start to finish. Already booked? You can transfer your reservation to us and still get expert tips, strategy, and support — and it’s a great way to support the show. TravelinTiaras@gmail.com Or reach out on Facebook Messenger. And right now… there are great opportunities for upcoming travel, so it’s a perfect time to start planning. Featuring This Week This episode includes: Holly, Laura, and Heidi sharing their runDisney Springtime Surprise weekend A stay at Coronado Springs and a solo stay at Port Orleans French Quarter A 10-miler, a 10K, costumes, character stops, and race-day nerves Surprise Geek meetups with Samantha, Selena, Tori, Joe, and more Food and drink stops at Le Cellier, Nomad Lounge, GEO-82, Beak and Barrel, Homecoming, and Sangria University Flower and Garden Festival bites, beignets, maple popcorn, and more Thoughts on newer Disney experiences like the Zootopia show, updated Buzz Lightyear, and Beak and Barrel A bonus cruise recap aboard Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas RunDisney, Beignets, and Green Hair The episode kicks off with Holly wearing the green wig she used for her Disgust costume during the Springtime Surprise 10-Miler — which pretty much sets the tone for the whole conversation. Holly shares that she went into the race under-trained because of a shoulder injury and made it all the way to mile nine before being swept. But what stands out is her perspective. She knew it might happen, she pushed as far as she could, and she still came away with pride, humor, and yes… the medal. Laura brings the solo-trip energy with a stay at Port Orleans French Quarter, where she enjoyed a slower pace, pool time, peaceful resort moments, and plenty of beignets. She also shares one of the funniest race moments: dressing as a bee for the Winnie the Pooh-themed 10K and trying to drink yellow Gatorade from a hard plastic honey bear bottle mid-race. That’s runDisney dedication right there. Heidi took a more relaxed race approach — stopping for characters, enjoying the course, and making memories along the way. Her character stops included Nick and Judy from Zootopia, Boba Fett, Woody and Bo Peep, and Bing Bong. Some people chase personal records. Some people chase character photos. Both are absolutely valid. The Geekin’ Family Shows Up One of the best parts of this episode is how the Geekin’ family keeps popping into the trip. Holly and Corey meet up with Tori and Joe at Yeehaw Bob over at Port Orleans Riverside — and then get surprised when Samantha and Selena walk in. Later, Heidi gets her own surprise. And Laura talks about that feeling of traveling solo, making it through the expo chaos, and then suddenly seeing “her people” at Nomad Lounge. That’s the heart of this episode. Yes, it’s a trip report. But underneath the races, snacks, lounges, and Disney details is that bigger feeling we talk about all the time: Disney is better when you’ve found your people. Food, Lounges, and Disney Geek Favorites Of course, this wouldn’t be a Geekin’ trip report without food. Holly and Corey enjoyed Le Cellier, including cheddar cheese soup, pretzel bread, filet, and an ice wine flight. Laura sampled tanghulu at the China booth, maple popcorn in Canada, jambalaya at French Quarter, and the crème brûlée croissant at Gaston’s. Heidi had several Flower and Garden Festival hits, including duck in France, Caribbean-style chicken, flan, and a fish slider. The lounge talk is strong in this one too. Nomad Lounge remains a Geek favorite for its cozy seating, small plates, drinks, and Animal Kingdom atmosphere. GEO-82 gets praise for cocktails and mushroom flatbread. And Beak and Barrel sparks a fun comparison to Oga’s Cantina and Trader Sam’s — lots to look at, some cool effects, and maybe one of those places that grows on you over time. New Disney Experiences and a Cruise Bonus The group also shares thoughts on a few newer Disney experiences. Heidi talks about the new Zootopia show at Animal Kingdom and whether it really fits the deeper theme of the park. Laura gives her take on the updated Buzz Lightyear, including the new removable blasters and the joy of feeling like a Space Ranger… even when the score says otherwise. And after the Disney portion of the trip, Holly, Corey, Heidi, and Missy headed out on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas for a four-night cruise — complete with big-ship entertainment, shows, skating, surfing, ziplining, and a water show set to ’80s music. The Real Heart of the Episode The best part of this conversation is not just the race. It’s not just the snacks. It’s not just the lounges. It’s the people. It’s the surprise visits. It’s the inside jokes. It’s the ride photos. It’s that feeling of seeing friends you may only get to see a few times a year — but when you do, it feels like a reunion. That’s the Geekin’ family. And that’s why these trip reports always mean a little more than just “here’s what we did.” They’re stories about connection. Listen to Episode 668 Episode 668 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is available now wherever you listen to podcasts. Come for the runDisney stories. Stay for the beignets, lounges, Flower and Garden snacks, surprise Geek meetups, and one very committed green-haired Disgust costume. Support the Show on Patreon A huge thank you to our Patreon family. Your support helps keep the podcast going and helps cover the costs of producing the show each week. If you’d like to support the show and be part of the Patreon community, visit: patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW Thank you for listening, sharing, supporting, and being part of this wonderful Disney Geek family.The post What Really Makes a RunDisney Weekend Special? It’s the People. Holly, Heidi and Laura – Ep. 668 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

We Started With One Question… What Is Disney World Really? If you’ve ever thought about planning a trip to Walt Disney World and immediately felt overwhelmed… You’re not alone. And honestly—that’s exactly why this episode exists. This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Curtis sits down with his longtime friend Joe… A self-proclaimed Disney novice. He’s been once. He’s got questions. And he’s asking the same things so many people are thinking: Is Disney just for kids? How big is it really? How much does this actually cost? And how do I even begin planning something like this? What unfolds is more than just a Q&amp;A… It’s the start of something bigger. A brand new Geekin’ Family Masterclass Series designed to help anyone—from total beginners to seasoned Disney fans—plan smarter, stress less, and enjoy more. Travelin’ Tiaras — Your Planning Partner If this episode gets you thinking about planning your own Disney trip… You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Curtis’ wife Margita and their good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras—trusted Disney travel planners who help take the stress out of the process. Whether you&#8217;re heading to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond… They’ll help you build a smart, personalized plan from start to finish. Already booked? You can transfer your reservation to them and still get expert support—and it’s a great way to support the podcast. TravelinTiaras@gmail.comOr connect on Facebook Messenger And right now… there are some great opportunities for upcoming travel, making it a perfect time to start planning. Featuring This Week’s Conversation This episode is all about going back to basics—but in the best way possible. What is Disney World, really? Why do so many people get overwhelmed before they even go? And what actually matters when you’re planning your first trip? Joe brings the curiosity… Curt brings the experience… And together, they break it all down in a way that’s simple, practical, and honestly… kind of eye-opening. It’s Not a Theme Park… It’s a Whole Different World One of the biggest takeaways? Disney World isn’t what most people think it is. It’s not just Magic Kingdom. It’s not just rides. It’s not even just a vacation destination. It’s an entire 40-square-mile world—more like a city than a theme park . With: Four major theme parks Two water parks 25+ resorts Hundreds of dining options Transportation systems, entertainment districts, and more No wonder people feel overwhelmed. The Biggest Mistake First-Timers Make There are two extremes that show up again and again: No plan at all Way too much plan (hello, 3-ring binder) And both can lead to disappointment. The sweet spot? A plan… with flexibility. Curt calls it having the “bones of a plan”— Knowing where you’re staying, which parks you’re visiting, and a few must-do priorities… But leaving room for the moments that can’t be scheduled. The “Geekin’ Big Three” If you’re starting from scratch, focus here first: When to go Where to stay What to eat Get these three things right… And you’re already ahead of most people. From choosing the right time of year… To understanding why staying “in the Disney bubble” changes everything… To realizing that Disney is actually a foodie paradise… This episode lays the groundwork in a way that makes planning feel doable. What Success Actually Looks Like Here’s the part that really hits. Because it’s easy to think success means: Doing every ride Seeing every show Maximizing every dollar But that’s not it. Not even close. The best Disney trips? They’re the ones where you slow down enough to experience them. The moments people remember most aren’t the rides. They’re: Walking into Magic Kingdom for the first time Watching your kids meet a character Sitting together during fireworks Laughing at something totally unexpected Or even just… Being present. The Magic You Can’t Plan This episode keeps coming back to one idea: The best moments at Disney are the ones you didn’t plan. And that’s the shift. Not just planning a trip… But allowing space for: Spontaneity Connection Joy And a little bit of that Disney magic Because you don’t have to go find it. Sometimes… it finds you. <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f64c.png" alt="🙌" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height:

In Episode 660 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we’re back with Part 2 of our Geek meetup weekend — and this is where the trip really comes to life. If Part 1 was about getting everyone together… Part 2 is about what happens when this community is fully in motion. From a full-scale Epcot scavenger hunt… to late-night adventures… to unforgettable emotional moments — this episode captures what makes these Geek meetups so special. The Scavenger Hunt That Took Over Epcot Saturday was the big day. Dan put together an incredibly detailed custom scavenger hunt that had teams of Geeks running all around Epcot solving clues, completing challenges, and hunting down… ducks. Yes — ducks. Teams used a web-based app with geolocation Clues ranged from easy finds to deep Disney details Bonus points came from hidden “duck nests” And a live leaderboard kept the competition intense What made it even cooler? Dan’s son Matt was running “command center” from home, verifying answers in real time and tracking scores. It wasn’t just a game — it was an experience, and one that brought everyone together in a really unique way. Great Food, Drinks, and Disney Detours As always… no Geek meetup is complete without some incredible food stops along the way: 50’s Prime Time Café – classic comfort food and hilarious server interactions Baseline Tap House – a perfect hangout spot for Geeks to regroup GEO-82 – charcuterie, bourbon flights, and elevated lounge vibes Three Bridges at Coronado – continuing the unofficial “burger challenge” And for some of the group… A truly unique experience at the Epilogue Speakeasy inside the Four Seasons, featuring: Hidden entrance and immersive storytelling Florida-inspired craft cocktails A full-on “experience” — not just drinks Meanwhile, others enjoyed a private Epcot fireworks cruise, proving once again that there’s no “one way” to do Disney. The Moments That Matter Most And this is where the episode really hits home. Because beyond the rides, food, and planning… This trip was about people. Curtis shares a powerful moment reflecting on: The friendships built over 12+ years of the podcast Meeting listeners who have become real-life friends And even witnessing a meaningful, almost “meant-to-be” reunion between community members There were also quieter, personal moments: Holding a baby and thinking about becoming a grandfather Seeing how welcoming and supportive this community is to new members Watching complete strangers become fast friends over a shared Disney love These are the moments that don’t show up on a park map… but define the trip. One Last Disney Day Before heading home, the group squeezed in one more day: Animal Kingdom adventures First-time experiences like Festival of the Lion King Snacks at Nomad Lounge and Satuli Canteen Final meals at Homecomin’ and Brown Derby And just like that… Another incredible Geek weekend came to a close. Final Thoughts This episode is a perfect reminder that: Disney trips aren’t just about rides… They’re about connection, community, and shared experiences. What started as a podcast has grown into something much bigger: A group of people who show up for each other A place where friendships are formed And a community that continues to grow, one trip at a time Ready to Plan Your Own Disney Adventure? If you’re thinking about planning your next trip… My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Universal… They’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation. TravelinTiaras@gmail.com Support the Show If you enjoy these trip reports and want to support the podcast: Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW You’ll get bonus content, live recordings, and even more ways to be part of this amazing community. Listen to Episode 660 Now Be sure to check out Part 2 of this Geek meetup weekend — and relive all the fun, laughter, and meaningful moments with us. If you want, I can also create:• SEO-optimized keywords + tags for this post• Pinterest pins or graphics ideas• Or help turn this into an email newsletter for your listThe post The Geek Scavenger Hunt and a Weekend of Disney Friendships (Part 2) – Ep. 660 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

Some Disney vacations are carefully planned.Some are spontaneous.And then there are the ones where you stack them back-to-back and just ride the wave of magic for two full weeks.In Episode 655 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Auntie Judy joins me to recap not one — but two Disney adventures:First, an 8-night sailing aboard the brand-new Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Treasure.Then? Straight off the ship and into Walt Disney World to meet up with Margita and me for Beach Club stays, fireworks dining, and some unforgettable Geek moments.This episode is cruise review, trip report, accessibility insight, dining talk, Broadway-style entertainment… and classic Judy storytelling all wrapped into one. Part 1: Sailing on the Disney TreasureJudy sailed with friends for 8 nights aboard the Disney Treasure — and from the moment her name was announced while boarding, she knew this one was special.Highlights from the Cruise: The emotional “Welcome Aboard” moment Broadway-caliber productions of Moana and Beauty and the Beast The Haunted Mansion Parlor lounge (glowing menus, Hatbox Ghost sipper, interactive effects!) Palo brunch — still one of the best dining upgrades at sea Pirate Night fun and Marvel-themed dining An Imagineering-style ship tour revealing hidden design details The hilarious Jack-Jack Diaper DashJudy also shared thoughtful accessibility observations — from muster procedures to theater seating to gangway navigation — and emphasized how supported she felt by the cast members throughout the sailing .Ports included Cozumel, Falmouth (Jamaica), and Castaway Cay — with a little hurricane impact story from Jamaica and a Starbucks sighting in Cozumel that genuinely surprised her.But for Judy?The standout memory was simply stepping onto the ship and hearing:“Disney Cruise Line welcomes the Ludwig family!”That feeling never gets old. Part 2: From Ship to Shore — Walt Disney WorldAfter disembarking, Judy drove straight to Walt Disney World to join us for a split stay: 2 nights at Caribbean Beach 5 nights at Beach Club Villas (2-bedroom villa)Judy’s Top Disney World Moments(In no particular order…) Seeing Geek friends and surprise meetups Birthday dinner at Le Cellier (prime filet mignon!) Drinks at GEO-82 Rose &amp; Crown fireworks dining package in EPCOT Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo shows A solo Magic Kingdom morning with Starbucks and the paradeOne particularly memorable moment?Judy had a fall at EPCOT security — and her Apple Watch automatically called 911. Thankfully she was completely fine (and laughing), but it made for one of those “only at Disney” stories that will stick with us for a while.Her final Magic Kingdom day was classic Judy — doing exactly what she wanted, at her own pace: castle stage show, parade viewing, Casey’s Corner piano music, and just soaking it all in. Dining StandoutsFrom the cruise to the parks, food played a major role:On the Disney Treasure:Prime rib at Coco’sMarvel dining experienceEndless soft servePalo brunch eleganceAt Walt Disney World:Le Cellier birthday dinnerRose &amp; Crown fireworks packageWailulu Bar &amp; Grill at the PolynesianLet’s just say… no one went hungry. Cruise Tips from a Travelin’ TiaraAs part of the Travelin’ Tiaras team, Judy shared a few great reminders: Don’t try to do everything Use the Navigator app to “favorite” activities ahead of time Pick stateroom location based on your comfort with ship movement Take advantage of cast member support — especially with accessibility needsWhether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Disney sailor, there was plenty of practical advice in this conversation. Final ThoughtsThis episode is such a great reminder that Disney vacations don’t have to be rushed.They can be:High-energy and theatricalRelaxed and personalSocial and community-focusedOr beautifully soloJudy’s trip had all of it.From Broadway shows at sea to quiet parade moments in Magic Kingdom — the magic is often found in the mix. Ready to Plan Your Own Adventure?Whether you’re thinking about sailing the Disney Treasure or planning your next Walt Disney World stay, the Travelin’ Tiaras would love to help. TravelinTiaras@gmail.comYou can also reach out via Facebook Messenger. Support the ShowIf you enjoy these trip reports and conversations, consider supporting us on Patreon: Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDWYour support keeps this community growing and these episodes coming each week. Listen NowEpisode 655 is available wherever you get your podcasts.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to combine a Disney cruise with a Walt Disney World vacation — this one’s for you.Thanks for listening, Geeks.We love this community — and we love YOU.The post 🚢🏰 Disney Treasure Cruise to Beach Club: Judy’s Back-to-Back Disney Adventure – Ep. 655 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

This week, Curtis is joined once again by Amy Rhodes, a longtime Geek who knows Disney World inside and out. Amy recently returned from a December trip just before Christmas — a sweet spot on the calendar that delivered lighter crowds, festive energy, and some truly unforgettable family moments. This wasn’t a “do everything” trip. Instead, it was thoughtful, intentional, and full of heart — the kind of Disney vacation that reminds us why we keep going back. A First-Ever Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party One of the biggest highlights of the trip was Amy’s daughter experiencing Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party for the very first time — made even more magical thanks to a surprise Santa letter waiting at their hotel. Amy breaks down exactly how they approached the party: Prioritizing exclusive characters Choosing shows and parades over ride marathons Sampling holiday treats without overdoing it And pacing the night so it stayed magical instead of exhausting The result? A late-night walk to the bus and a quiet moment that made every dollar spent completely worth it. Holiday Food, Party Treats &amp; Festival Favorites This episode is packed with great food talk — especially when it comes to holiday-only offerings. Amy shares: Standout party snacks (including a lasagna flatbread that stole the show) Why party food can sometimes outshine regular menus Smart strategies like splitting meals, ordering kids’ meals, and yes… bringing Tupperware and Ziplocs Festival of the Holidays favorites at EPCOT, including the Cookie Stroll and comfort-food booth wins If you love practical Disney food tips that actually work, this episode delivers. Old Key West, Slow Mornings &amp; Brunch at Olivia’s The family stayed at Old Key West, leaning into quiet mornings and relaxed pacing. Amy talks about: Why Old Key West remains a favorite despite its quirks A slow, satisfying brunch at Olivia’s How choosing calm over chaos completely changed the feel of the trip It’s a great reminder that where — and how — you stay can shape the entire vacation. Shows, Live Entertainment &amp; Candlelight Magic Beyond the food and parties, this trip leaned heavily into Disney’s live entertainment: Holiday shows and performers New and returning stage productions And a deeply moving Candlelight Processional experience that stopped everyone in their tracks Amy shares why these moments continue to matter — and how sometimes the most powerful Disney memories come from simply sitting still and listening. The Moments You Can’t Plan More than rides or reservations, this episode is about the moments you can’t schedule. A child holding a hand.A quiet walk after midnight.A sentence whispered at just the right time. Those are the moments that define a Disney trip — and Episode 653 is full of them. Ready to Plan Your Own Magical Trip? If you’re thinking about planning a Disney vacation — whether it’s for the holidays or any time of year — Curtis’ wife Margita and their good friend Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras. They specialize in: Walt Disney World Disney Cruise Line Disneyland Universal and more Already booked? You can transfer your reservation and still get expert planning and support — at no extra cost. TravelinTiaras@gmail.com(You’ll also find the email in the show notes of your podcast app.) Support the Show on Patreon A huge thank-you to everyone supporting the podcast on Patreon. Your support helps keep these conversations going and keeps the Geekin’ on WDW community thriving. To join us for bonus content, live recordings, and behind-the-scenes fun, visit:Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW Final Thoughts Episode 653 is a reminder that Disney magic doesn’t always come from doing more. Sometimes it comes from slowing down, choosing wisely, and letting the moments find you. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.The post A Christmas Party First, Holiday Food Wins, and the Disney Moments That Matter Most With Amy Rhodes- Ep. 653 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

One of the best parts of hosting the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is reconnecting with longtime friends who feel like family — and Episode 651 is a perfect example of that. This week, Curtis is joined once again by Holly and Dan Austin, who return to the show after a Thanksgiving-time Walt Disney World trip that turned into a full-on holiday kickoff adventure with their family of six. From smart arrival strategy and first-time water park fun to marathon park days, brand-new Fort Wilderness cabins, and honest takes on holiday parties — this episode is packed with real-world Disney insight you can actually use. A Thanksgiving Trip Built on Smart Strategy Holly and Dan made an early decision that paid off big: flying in the night before their Disney stay. Not only did this save money on airfare for a family of six, but it also unlocked a free water park day thanks to their deluxe resort stay. They spent their arrival night at Homewood Suites in Flamingo Crossings, an off‑site option that checked all the boxes — large rooms, free breakfast, proximity to Disney, and even Mickey‑shaped waffles to start the magic early. That one strategic choice set the tone for a smooth, flexible trip. Typhoon Lagoon: A First‑Time Family Win The family’s first-ever visit to Typhoon Lagoon turned out to be one of the biggest surprises of the trip. Arriving at rope drop, they found near‑empty crowds, walk‑on slides, and a stress‑free pace that allowed them to experience nearly everything before lunch. Highlights included: Crushing Gusher (and conquering ride nerves) A legendary wave pool A relaxing lazy river loop Surprisingly solid quick‑service food For the kids, the water park ended up being one of the most memorable parts of the entire vacation — a reminder that sometimes the “extras” become the highlights. Fort Wilderness Cabins &amp; Golf Cart Life After the water park, the Austins checked into the brand‑new DVC Cabins at Fort Wilderness — and quickly became converts. With plenty of space, Murphy beds for everyone, and the ability to keep noise contained (a big win for families), the cabins offered comfort and value without the massive point cost of a two‑bedroom villa. The real game‑changer? The golf cart. From zipping to Hoop‑Dee‑Doo Revue to spontaneous Chip &amp; Dale Campfire Sing‑Along fun, the golf cart turned Fort Wilderness into its own little adventure — complete with decorated loops, holiday stockings, and campground charm. Hoop‑Dee‑Doo, Campfires &amp; Classic Disney Fun Hoop‑Dee‑Doo Revue once again delivered laughs, energy, and a hearty meal — earning its spot as a must‑do tradition for the Austin family. Later that night, an impromptu decision led to the Chip &amp; Dale Campfire Sing‑Along, complete with s’mores, music, and low‑key magic that felt refreshingly old‑school Disney. These moments reminded everyone that not every great Disney experience involves a Lightning Lane. Hollywood Studios: Rope Drop to Park Close Hollywood Studios became a 13‑hour marathon day — and the family handled it with zero strollers and full commitment. Key wins included: Walk‑on Rise of the Resistance at rope drop Smugglers Run with the whole family riding together Toy Story Land via Lightning Lane Tower of Terror and Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster thrills A surprisingly fun Villains show They also shared honest thoughts on attractions like Little Mermaid, highlighting what felt worth repeating — and what didn’t. EPCOT: Delays, Pivots &amp; Deluxe Evening Strategy EPCOT brought challenges early, including delayed openings and shifting wait times, but smart pivots saved the day. Highlights included: Soarin’ with no rider swaps A smoother, motion‑friendly 2D version of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Fish &amp; chips eaten in the queue (a Geek‑level move) Voices of Liberty and classic EPCOT moments A relaxed Coral Reef dinner before closing During deluxe evening hours, patience paid off with short waits for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Test Track, wrapping up a massive 15‑hour park day. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: The Honest Take One of the most candid parts of the episode comes from Holly and Dan’s review of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. While they enjoyed: Holiday overlays on Space Mountain and Tomorrowland Speedway Fireworks, parade snow, and seasonal treats Riding TRON at night They also shared frustrations with: Extremely crowded walkways Long waits that never dropped A lack of exclusivity for a premium‑priced event Their takeaway? For some families, a regular Magic Kingdom day on a party date might deliver a better experience. The Great Fried Chicken Battle Food lovers will appreciate the Austins’ unofficial fried chicken showdown: Olivia’s Café — the surprise winner Homecomin’ — massive portions, classic flavors Hoop‑Dee‑Doo Revue — still great, especially on refills Each brought something different to the table, but Olivia’s edged out the competition with consistency and flavor. Disney Springs, Tree Strolls &amp; Cookie Wars On departure day, the family slowed things down at Disney Springs, enjoying: The Christmas Tree Stroll with interactive MagicBand moments Kid‑approved sticker maps A head‑to‑head cookie comparison between Gideon’s Bakehouse and Summer House on the Lake The verdict? A respectful tie — with strong opinions on freshness, portion size, and reheat value. Support the Show on Patreon If you enjoy episodes like this and want to help keep Geekin’ on Walt Disney World going strong, consider supporting the podcast on Patreon. Your support helps us continue sharing trip reports, strategy discussions, and conversations that make this community so special. As a Patron, you’ll get access to: Bonus content and behind‑the‑scenes extras Live recordings and exclusive episodes A closer connection to the Geekin’ on WDW community You can learn more and join us at Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW. Every bit of support truly means the world — thank you for being part of the Geekin’ family. <img...