I can’t even count the number of times my family and I have spent wonderful vacations at Walt Disney World. From the first visit to the Magic Kingdom 30 years ago until today, I have always been amazed by the latest attractions, magnificent seasonal and perennial landscape displays and the total entertainment package that Disney imagineers present to park patrons.

While any day at Walt Disney World is full of fun, my favorite times of year there are during the special festivals every spring and fall. This spring, Pirates and Princesses will be headliners at Epcot, with costumed characters like Captain Hook and a resplendent assembly of fairytale royalty posing for pictures with guests at the International Flower & Garden Festival.

The festival, which is scheduled to run April 5- June 3, 2007, not only has themed topiaries and acres of lush, colorful, fragrant gardens, it gives guests a blast from the past at the nightly Flower Power Concert Series. Recording stars of the ’60s and ’70s, like Tony Orlando and Dawn, The Tokens and Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, who was a celebrity coach on American Idol this year, strut their retro stuff on the outdoor stage and take you back through time. Once the music begins, it’s hard not to clap and sing along in a sweet trip down memory lane.

The second sensational event of the year is Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival, set for Sept. 28 - Nov. 11, 2007. The food is always fabulous, with taste treats representative of diverse cuisine from around the world. So, one minute you’re savoring some shrimp that was cooked on the barbie, the next you’re sinking your teeth into mouthwatering schnitzel.

After a stroll through the international marketplaces and a few sips of chardonnay, it‘s time to enjoy the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, which showcases some legendary talent. I have had the pleasure of attending performances by Three Dog Night (Joy to the World) and Gloria Gaynor (I will Survive), and had a great time dancing in the aisle.

Whether it’s your first Disney festival experience or the latest in a series that goes back a decade or longer, Disney magic always hits a new peak for everyone who attends.