A Front Row Feast: My Garden Rocks Dinner Package Experience at EPCOT

 

Spring at EPCOT means one thing to me—it's time for the Flower and Garden Festival. The park comes alive with vibrant blooms, stunning topiaries, and the kind of fresh, floral energy that makes just walking around feel like a celebration. But nestled within all that magic is a gem I look forward to each year: the Garden Rocks concert series. Free with park admission, these performances are always fun, but for the second year in a row, I went all-in and booked the Garden Rocks Dinner Package. Front row seats, a delicious meal, and live music? Yes, please.

This year, I chose to dine at Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada Pavilion, an easy pick for a steak lover like me. 

Since I was running the next day, I opted for the earliest performance at 5:30 p.m., which meant a 2:50 p.m. dinner reservation. An early dinner suits me just fine, especially when it means I’ll be in bed early and up with the sunrise.

The package at Le Cellier was priced at $99 and included an entrée, their famous bread service, and dessert. While drinks weren’t part of the deal, I couldn’t resist ordering my favorite cocktail—the Ottawa Apple. Worth every penny.

The bread came out first, and I have to pause for a moment of silence. Their pretzel bread alone is reason enough to book this meal, and the butter? Let’s just say it had a touch of maple sugar and probably should be illegal. I could’ve eaten that and left happy. 

But then came the main event.

I ordered the Filet Mignon, which was served with mushroom risotto, Pomodoraccio tomatoes, truffle butter sauce, and petit herbs. It was cooked perfectly and so tender that my knife practically slid through it. The flavors blended beautifully, rich and earthy with just the right amount of brightness from the tomatoes. 

For dessert, I went with the Maple Crème Brûlée—silky, sweet, and caramelized to perfection. I left feeling beyond full and only slightly ashamed that I enjoyed it all so thoroughly. 

No regrets, but yes, I did waddle out of there.

With a happy heart and a very full stomach, I made my way to the American Gardens Theater. This is the real magic of the dinner package: preferred seating. It usually means the front or second row, and for the second year in a row, I ended up right in the front. Nothing beats that view, especially when the music starts.

This weekend’s performers were The Orchestra, featuring former members of ELO and ELO Part II. I’ll be honest—they’ve aged like any rockers do: a little rough around the edges. But age didn’t affect their performance. 

They may move a bit slower than they used to, but their energy was still very much alive. The music took over and they delivered hit after hit, including Evil Woman, Sweet Talkin’ Woman, and Hold On Tight. Each performance during the festival is about 30 minutes long, but it flies by when you're singing along to classics. I left the theater humming all the way back to my resort, fully satisfied—body, soul, and stomach.

If you’re planning to visit EPCOT during the Flower and Garden Festival and want a truly memorable experience, I highly recommend the Garden Rocks Dinner Package. Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, or just someone who appreciates a good seat — it's well worth the price. Just be sure to book early, because those front row spots, they’re magical… and they go fast.

Until next year, Garden Rocks. I’ll be back — steak knife in one hand, concert ticket in the other.

Sangria University at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort: The Perfect Post-Race Celebration

After completing all three races of the SpringTime Surprise Challenge at Disney World, I knew I deserved a celebration. Instead of running to the parks (pun intended), I decided to do something a little more... educational. That’s right — I enrolled in Sangria University at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, held at the gorgeous Three Bridges Bar & Grill.

Now, before you raise an eyebrow, let’s just agree: this isn’t excessive drinking — it’s hydration and education. After all that running, a little rehydration seemed only fair.

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous I’d be the only solo “student.” But I quickly found out there were four of us flying solo, and to our delight, we scored the best seats in the house: right at the edge of the restaurant with a beautiful view of Lago Dorado, the sparkling lake at the heart of the resort. A soft breeze, sunshine, and incredible scenery set the perfect tone for our “class.”

Waiting at my table was a small plate of chips and guacamole (honestly, some of the best I’ve had) and a flight of four Sangria samples — and when I say “samples,” don’t picture tiny sips. These were full, hearty pours. To balance things out (and cleanse the palate), there was also a giant bottle of water.

Upon being seated, the server encouraged us to start drinking right away. Awww, just like my college days! (Wait, who said that?) I sampled all four Sangrias, and while only one really captured my heart, the white Sangria, that didn’t stop me from tasting all of them. I was celebrating, after all.

When "class" officially started, our instructor shared a little background about Sangria, the components that make it up, how Walt Disney himself brought Sangria to the resort, and some fun history about Coronado Springs. It was fascinating (and slightly buzzed) learning.

Then came “test time” we each got to craft our own custom glass of Sangria! We selected our wine, liquor, and juice combinations. While there was an option to upgrade to premium liquors, I stuck with what my “tuition” covered. 

I love anything bubbly, so I chose sparkling wine as my base. I added Peach Schnapps and a mix of cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, and hibiscus juice, each portioned into cute little shot glasses (because apparently a lot of my tuition goes toward dish soap!).

Our instructor even dropped a slice of strawberry and a raspberry into my glass to finish it off.

Funny enough, even though my favorite flight sample was a white Sangria, the drink I created turned out to be a red Sangria — and it was delicious. The hibiscus juice added a tartness that I loved.

After our final exam (a.k.a. drinking our masterpieces), the “tuition bill” arrived. 

Because I prepaid for the class, all I had to pay was the tip. We were also awarded official Sangria University diplomas and on the back were the recipes for all four Sangrias we sampled, plus our custom creation.

Before leaving, we got to pose with the Sangria University cutout board, and you know I didn’t pass up that photo op!

At $79 (plus tip), Sangria University is an absolute steal, especially at Disney prices. Think about it: five full drinks, huge bottle of water, delicious guac and chips, a beautiful view, and a two-hour experience filled with fun and laughter. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation, education, and celebration. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a unique Disney experience.

If you're planning a post-race treat, a special afternoon with friends, or just want a little extra magic with a splash of Sangria, Sangria University is a must-do!

You can catch all the fun and see more of my experience on my YouTube channel, don’t forget to check it out, just click here!

runDisney Springtime Surprise 10-Miler: This Was the Way

After a sluggish start the day before, I was feeling much more refreshed for the runDisney Springtime Surprise 10-Miler this morning. A little extra sleep worked wonders—and the cooler temps at the start certainly helped too. Like the two previous races, we began in the Epcot parking lot, and the vibe was electric. That said, the bottleneck at the start was real. It was one of those moments where you’re not so much running as shuffling and trying not to trip the person in front of you. Unfortunately, just before the half-mile mark, one runner did face plant on the asphalt—a rough reminder to stay alert even in the excitement.

Things got more magical after mile 1 when we entered Epcot and made a loop around World Showcase. 

We exited near the UK Pavilion and made our way through the charming Boardwalk area before hitting that narrow pathway that leads to Hollywood Studios.

The highlight of the entire race for me came as we entered Batuu, in Galaxy’s Edge. That’s when I got to meet Mandohimself. Yes—THE Mandalorian. Naturally, I asked him if this was the way to the finish line. In his classic masked, muffled voice, he responded: “This is the Way.” Literal goosebumps. Not even exaggerating.

After that epic moment, it was off to Toy Story Land. Before I exited the park, I had to take a quick detour (runner priorities!)—it was time to check in for my Southwest flight. Mission accomplished: Boarding Group A secured!

Around mile 4.5, we were back out on the road where we will be here for quite some time. While it was less scenic, Disney kept the energy high with plenty of character stops and bands along the way. At mile 6, a light breeze rolled in—a welcome break—but I knew better than to trust it. As soon as the sun crests the horizon, things heat up fast.

By mile 8, we were making our way toward the Epcot entrance again, and the cheering crowds really helped push us through that final stretch. There’s nothing quite like running past the gospel choir near the end—it’s like the finish line calling you home.

Crossing the finish line, I received the sleek 10-Miler medal featuring none other than Elastigirl. And for those of us who completed the challenge? We earned the bonus medal with Baymax and Hiro—definitely one for the collection.

With that, the runDisney race season officially comes to a close. Bittersweet for sure. But no worries—I’ll see you all in September for the beginning of another magical season.

Until then... this is the way.

Want to see the race highlights? You can watch the full experience on my YouTube channel — click here to check it out!

When the Magic Pauses: My Thoughts on the Hiatus of runDisney Races at Disneyland

When runDisney announced the return of races to Disneyland for 2024, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. After a long pause that began in 2017 due to the construction of Galaxy’s Edge, the idea of lacing up my running shoes and racing through the Happiest Place on Earth again was something I had eagerly awaited. I signed up. I trained. I showed up. And I soaked up every magical mile.

But now, not even two full years later, it’s happening again. runDisney has announced a hiatus for races at Disneyland after just five race weekends. To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement.

For those of us on the West Coast—especially in Washington State like me—Anaheim races aren’t just convenient, they’re the ones we grow attached to. Sure, Walt Disney World is incredible, and Epcot will always hold a special place in my heart. But there's something timeless and intimate about the original Disneyland Park that no other resort can quite replicate. I rarely even step foot in California Adventure, not because it isn’t great, but because Disneyland has everything I adore. If given the choice, I’d spend all three park days within the gates of that charming, nostalgia-laden park.

The return of races in 2024 brought a renewed sense of excitement. I proudly participated in the January weekend, the Dumbo Double Dare.

followed by the new Halloween Half weekend, 

then another series of glorious January races, I say that because I loved by Baby Groot outfit and all the 80's music. 

I’m already signed up for this years' September races as well as the final race weekend in January 2026. That phrasing—"final"—hits hard. It’s not just the end of a race weekend. It’s the end of a routine, a tradition, a community experience that means so much to so many.

Is “devastated” too strong a word? Maybe. But my heart is heavy. These weekends are more than just medals and mileage. They’re shared smiles, early morning corrals, castle selfies, and post-race churros. They’re a reason to train, to travel, and to reconnect with something whimsical and pure.

I don’t know when—or if—the races will return to Anaheim. I want to believe this is just a pause and not a full stop. Until then, I’ll keep showing up for the races that are still on the calendar. I’ll treasure every mile, every character stop, every moment. And yes, I’ll continue to run Disney races in Orlando too—because the magic is still very much alive there, and I’m not ready to hang up my ears just yet.

And if you see someone a little misty-eyed crossing the finish line in January 2026—it might be me, letting go of something that brought me so much joy, even if just for a while.

Springtime Surprise 10K: From Chaos to a Hercules-Worthy Finish

 

Every race has its own story—but this Springtime Surprise 10K really tested my nerves from the jump. Let’s just say the morning didn’t exactly start off like a Disney fairytale.

Our bus driver, bless his heart, took a very wrong turn. We ended up doing a nerve-wracking U-turn and clipped the curb so hard I genuinely thought we might go over the side of the road. Cue the pre-race stress. When we finally arrived at Epcot, the idea of snapping a pic with Mickey or catching the pre-race entertainment went right out the window. I made a beeline for my corral, trying not to panic about missing the start.

Whether it was the lingering anxiety from the bus ride, the thick Florida humidity, or the heat settling in before sunrise, I felt off from the first step. This race was a slog—not just for me, but it seemed like most runners were pacing themselves a little slower than usual.

The course started in the Epcot parking lot, same as yesterday’s 5K, and the first few miles were out on the roads, which can feel a little long when you’re waiting for the magic to kick in. Around mile 3, we entered Epcot ever so briefly before heading out again toward the Beach and Yacht Club. At that early hour, we were asked to keep our voices down to avoid waking the guests—nothing like trying to run through molasses while tiptoeing in running shoes.

The Boardwalk section is always a bit tricky for me—I’m super cautious there because those wooden planks can be sneaky-slippery. But then we entered back through the International Gateway and finally hit that sweet spot: World Showcase.

And just when I needed it most, the Muses were there, belting out “Zero to Hero.” Talk about a morale boost. Honestly, they should be stationed at every race.

Not surprisingly, he character line for Meg was the longest I’ve ever seen. I didn’t stop, but clearly a lot of people were willing to wait for her sass and a selfie.

By the time I hit the choir at Mile 6, I knew the finish line was right around the corner. Everyone around me seemed to be feeling the same exhaustion.

Despite the tough start, Disney did what they always do—brought out the characters, the bands, and the energy. And as always, it was all worth it when I crossed the finish line and received that gorgeous Hercules-themed medal. They don’t put them around your neck anymore (probably smart—less chance of chipping), but holding it in my hands felt just as triumphant.

Was it my strongest 10K? Not even close. But was it memorable? Absolutely. Sometimes, the messiest starts lead to the most satisfying finishes. And I’d say earning that Hercules medal after a chaotic, sweaty, stress-filled morning made me feel just a little bit like a hero myself.

Want to see the magic (and mayhem) unfold? You can watch my full race day experience on my YouTube channel, Click here to come along for the ride, the sights, the characters, and all the sweaty, sparkly fun!

Rocket & Groot Take on the Springtime Surprise Challenge - 5K

If you've ever wondered what it's like to run through EPCOT at 5:00 in the morning, dressed like a raccoon and chatting with a potted tree, allow me to enlighten you.

The first leg of the Springtime Surprise Challenge kicked off with a 5K hosted by none other than Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy. Naturally, I took this as a personal invitation to cosplay as Rocket Raccoon and bring my trusty sidekick — a potted baby Groot — along for the ride. (He didn’t complain, though I suspect he still thinks he's the real star of the show.)

"RunDisney" apparently translates to “alarm goes off at 2:00AM.” Yes, 2:00AM. I rolled out of bed like a raccoon emerging from a dumpster, slapped on my costume, grabbed Baby Groot (who was looking very awake for a tree), and hopped on the transportation bus by 3:00AM. By 3:45AM, I was in Corral B, making friends, chatting with fellow costumed runners, and occasionally adjusting Groot’s soil to keep him comfortable.

When our corral moved forward and crossed the start line just after 5:00AM, we were greeted by dazzling lights, pumped-up music, and announcers who really love mornings. The race began in the EPCOT parking lot, and the first mile was a warm-up lap around the outside of the park — which Groot found just a little dull.

But soon, the real fun began: we entered World Showcase, where cast members and entertainers cheered us on, and the park’s lights cast a glow that almost made me forget it was still technically nighttime. We ran under Spaceship Earth, then past the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind ride — the perfect backdrop for our dynamic duo. Groot may or may not have tried to steer us toward the ride queue mid-race. (He’s got priorities.)

Throughout the course, I chatted with Baby Groot, and to my delight — and his — several entertainers and Cast Members recognized him. Shouts of “I am Groot!” echoed as we passed, causing his little leaves to perk up. He was basking in the attention, and I could tell this would be a core memory for him. (Tree pun intended.)

As we neared the finish line — back in the EPCOT parking lot — I heard the heavenly sound of the race choir, which only meant one thing: we were almost done! Groot and I gave it our all down the final stretch, and despite stopping for character photos and general raccoon-tree shenanigans, we crossed the line in 40 minutes. Not too shabby for a non-timed race full of detours and dancing.

Our post-race reward? A medal shaped like a cassette tape, complete with Adult Groot featured front and center. Naturally, I shared it with Baby Groot — he earned it too, after all. (He insists we alternate weeks wearing it. We'll see.)

 

All in all, the first run of the Springtime Surprise Challenge was a blast of galactic proportions. Whether it was the early morning adrenaline, the thrill of running through EPCOT, or just the joy of pretending I was Rocket with my miniature bark-covered bestie, it was an experience I'll never forget.

Until next time… we are Groot.

And hey — if you want to see Rocket and Baby Groot in action (yes, there’s dancing), you can catch our whole adventure on my YouTube channel. Click here Groot promises not to cry if you subscribe... but he might do a happy little wiggle.

Sunrise Yoga at Disney’s Springtime Surprise: A Journey in Flexibility and Survival

Ah, the magic of Disney. The place where dreams come true, happiness abounds, and—if you’re not careful—you may discover muscles you never knew existed. This morning, I embarked on an adventure unlike any other: Disney’s Springtime Surprise Sunrise Yoga. The experience promised tranquility, flexibility, and a gentle start to the day. What I got was an epic battle between my body and gravity.

Transportation from my hotel started at 3:30 AM, by 3:15 AM, I was walking to the buses, and it was already a balmy 72 degrees—warm enough to be comfortable, but not yet oppressive. Check-in at Hollywood Studios was at 4:15 AM, with yoga beginning at 5:00 AM. The forecast for the day? A delightful 90 degrees. But at this ungodly hour, even though my watch said 72 degrees, the weather felt perfect—cool, crisp, and full of promise.

I, however, was not.

At some point between my flight and waking up this morning, something happened to the left side of my back. Or rather, the muscle just to the left of my back. Did I sleep wrong? Sit too long? Blink too hard? Who’s to say? What I do know is that halfway through a deep forward fold, I was pretty sure I was going to be spending the rest of my life in that position.

The session itself was beautiful. Picture hundreds of people, all lying on their mats under the soft glow of Disney magic, breathing in unison as the sun slowly rises. Peaceful, right? That is, unless you’re me—grimacing through downward dog, attempting a warrior pose that felt more like “mildly irritated peasant,” and realizing that my body does not, in fact, bend that way. 

One thing I couldn’t help but notice this morning was how many empty yoga mats there were. As of this morning, the session still hadn’t sold out, which surprised me. 

I really hope this event hasn’t run its course—this is something I just started doing during race weekend, and I’m loving it. Not sure if it’s the location or something else, but it deserves to keep going. It’s such a peaceful, unique way to kick off race weekend, even if you spend half of it wondering if your hip flexors have officially gone on strike.

I had high hopes that yoga would stretch out my kinks, but when it came time for savasana (the part where you just lie down and pretend you have your life together), I had a terrible realization: I might not get up. As I lay there, staring at the sky, fully embracing my fate, I wondered if Disney would just roll me off to the side and leave me there. Maybe add some fairy lights and call me a new attraction—Sleeping Beauty’s Unintended Sequel.

Eventually, I managed to peel myself off the mat with all the grace of a baby giraffe on ice skates. The sun was rising, my body was protesting, and I was feeling a deep sense of accomplishment. Or maybe that was just the early signs of muscle fatigue. Either way, I survived.

The event wrapped up with some classic Disney flair—entertainment themed to match all three races. The Muses from Hercules kicked things off with a song and some surprise fireworks, which is exactly what you want after finally getting your breathing under control. 

Then Pain and Panic appeared (perhaps in tribute to how my muscles were feeling), 

followed by my secret crush, Star-Lord, who arrived with Gamora in tow. And to close it out, none other than Mr. and Mrs. Incredible made an appearance, reminding us that no matter how heroic you feel just for showing up to yoga at 5:00 AM, there are actual superheroes nearby doing it with style.

If you want to watch my yoga experience head to my YouTube channel by Clicking here!