One of the very best parts of hosting the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is reconnecting with longtime listeners and friends — and this week’s episode is a perfect example of why.

In Episode 650, I’m joined by Amanda Filippone, a longtime Geek, great friend of the show, and one of our favorite trip reporters. Amanda recently returned from a girls’ getaway to Walt Disney World with her sister, and what started as a short trip quickly turned into a full-on Disney holiday adventure.

From Annual Pass strategy and Food & Wine favorites to Christmas parties, Jollywood Nights, and those unexpected Disney moments that only seem to happen on property — this episode is packed with warmth, laughs, and great takeaways.

A Sisters’ Trip with Annual Pass Freedom

Amanda and her sister took advantage of a timely Annual Pass promotion, giving them the flexibility to add days, shift plans, and lean into spontaneity — something that became a theme throughout the trip.

With multiple future trips already on the calendar, the Annual Pass wasn’t just a ticket — it was permission to slow down, explore more, and enjoy Disney without pressure.

Animal Kingdom: Rope Drop, Rides & Rum Blossoms

The trip kicked off at Animal Kingdom, where Amanda experienced:

• An unusually busy Dinosaur rope-drop (thanks to its upcoming closure)
• Everest single-rider success and a surprisingly smooth Safari
• A much-anticipated visit to Zootopia: Better Zoogether, which earned high marks
• And of course… the all-important Rum Blossom — Amanda’s official “I’m in Disney” drink

It was a great example of how early November crowds can still deliver excellent touring days with the right expectations.

Hollywood Studios: Rope Drop Wins & Live Entertainment

Hollywood Studios delivered one of the strongest days of the trip.

Amanda used classic rope-drop strategy to knock out Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, Tower of Terror, and Rise of the Resistance before most guests even hit their first coffee.

Highlights included:

• The Villains Show (with a surprise winner)
• Mixed feelings on Sci-Fi Dine-In and Baseline Tap House
• A deep appreciation for Disney’s live performers and stage shows

This day really underscored how much live entertainment can elevate a Disney experience.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Festive… and Chaotic

Amanda and her sister attended Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, complete with:

• Party-day touring strategy
• A dessert party with themed treats and fireworks viewing
• Cookie crawls (not always scooter-friendly)

While the holiday atmosphere was magical, Amanda noted that the party felt more crowded and chaotic than expected — especially compared to other after-hours events.

EPCOT Food & Wine Festival: Hits, Misses & Lots of Cheese

With EPCOT playing a starring role across multiple days, Amanda delivered a thorough Food & Wine Festival review.

Standout bites included:

• Impossible Montreal slider
• Warm Swiss cheese
• Stone bread in Morocco
• Fried curry paneer
• Pretzel bread pudding
• American pudding cake (a surprise favorite)

Not everything was a hit — some items were overly salty or dry — but overall, EPCOT delivered exactly what this trip was about: tasting, wandering, and enjoying without rushing.

Amanda also shared thoughts on:

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (song draw included)
• DuckTales World Showcase Adventure
• Lounge stops like GEO-82

Jollywood Nights: The Surprise Star of the Trip

If there was one unanimous takeaway from this trip, it was this:

Jollywood Nights is outstanding.

Amanda described it as:

• More adult-focused
• Less chaotic than other parties
• Packed with high-quality entertainment

From the Nightmare Before Christmas sing-along to a Muppets-hosted variety show, themed skating, characters like Bing Bong, and a strong finale show — Jollywood Nights stood out as one of Disney’s best ticketed events.

The Disney Moments That Matter Most

Beyond rides and food, Amanda shared two deeply meaningful moments:

• Connecting with a family during a dessert party, forming an instant Disney bond
• Meeting another family whose children’s names mirrored her own — a serendipitous Disney coincidence

These moments reminded us why Disney trips stay with us long after we return home.

Final Thoughts

This episode is a reminder that Disney doesn’t always have to be about doing everything.

Sometimes, the best trips are about:

• Flexibility
• Shared experiences
• Slowing down
• And being open to the unexpected

Whether you’re planning a girls’ trip, considering Jollywood Nights, or just love a thoughtful Disney trip report — Episode 650 is one you won’t want to miss.

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Listen to Episode 650 now wherever you get your podcasts.

Thinking about your own Disney trip? Reach out anytime — and when you’re ready to plan, email TravelinTiaras@gmail.com and let us help you create your next magical adventure.

As always — thanks for being part of the Geekin’ family