Welcome to planDisney, Robert.
It's less than a month until you'll be arriving at the place where “laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.”
Whenever I travel to my second "home," I love the convenience of wearing a
MagicBand. Not only can you choose from a variety of amazing designs (including different colors, Disney Characters, and themes), but MagicBands have some handy-dandy capabilities. They enable you to unlock your Disney Resort room door, enter Theme Parks and Water Parks (with valid admission), connect a Disney PhotoPass to your account, and even pay for dining and merchandise.
There are three ways to purchase MagicBands: through your My Disney Experience account, through ShopDisney, or when you arrive at Walt Disney World Resort. They are available for purchase at your Resort, at the Theme Parks, and at
Disney Springs.
Even so, right now, the variety of MagicBands available seems to be quite sparse. I have a hunch that this is because, as you mentioned in your question, Disney is phasing out the old model to make way for the new
MagicBand+. These new wristbands will have the same basic capabilities as the current MagicBand, however, they'll have some extra "ka-chow!" For example, they'll include color-changing lights and even haptic vibrations that allow Guests to "feel the magic." Moreover, MagicBand+ will also bring gesture recognition capabilities that enable certain movements to create magical experiences.
But here's the million-dollar question: when will MagicBand+ be released? Unfortunately, we don't know. The exact release date has yet to be announced. However, I personally anticipate hearing news in the near future. Between now and your trip, I would keep an eye on
Disney Parks Blog for any exciting announcements.
On a different note, it looks you'll be able to enjoy the fabulous
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. This is many people's favorite EPCOT festival, Robert. You'll be able to enjoy brilliant
topiary displays of Disney characters and gorgeous gardens in bloom. You'll also be able to trek around World Showcase and enjoy some of the unique and
delectable food and drink on offer. Don't miss it!
Have an enchanting vacation, Robert. Thanks for stopping by planDisney.
ChEARS,
Mike