Magical Express Going Back to Picking Guests Up 3 Hours Before Flights

Back in November, Disney's Magical Express ahead of the busy holiday season began picking up guests 4 hours before their flights out of the Orlando International Airport instead of the usual 3 hours. This was due to heavy traffic in the airport security lines. Good news as now they will be returning to picking up guests 3 hours ahead of their flights home. 

This will begin on January 11 for Walt Disney World Resort guests. Good news as what guests call the 'Tragical Express' going home just got a little less tragical and a little more magical. This is according to Cast Members from Disney's Magical Express.

Celebrate New Year's Eve at Walt Disney World; Disney Donates $2 Million for #ShareYourEars Campaign

Celebrate New Year's Eve at Walt Disney World:

2018 is fast approaching with New Year's Eve this coming Sunday. Of course there will be many fireworks displays to ring in the new year and here is the schedule:

Magic Kingdom:

• Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks ­– Guests will ring in the New Year in front of Cinderella Castle with the cherished fireworks show on both Dec. 30 and 31, beginning at 11:50 p.m. (An additional showing – perfect for young kiddos – will light up the sky both nights earlier in the evening at 6:30 p.m.).
• New Year’s Celebration Dance Parties in Frontierland & Tomorrowland – Put on your dancing shoes and boot-scoot with a hoppin’ beat ‘til midnight in Frontierland. Or jump start the New Year with an upbeat get-together in Tomorrowland, blasting into 2018 with futuristic tunes.

Magic Kingdom Park hours on Dec. 30 and 31, 2017 are 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Epcot

• New Year’s Countdown Fireworks – Say “au revoir” to 2017 around World Showcase as dazzling fireworks light up the sky to welcome 2018 in a booming big way. This spectacular is held only on December 31, beginning at 11:40 p.m.
• New Year’s Eve Parties – A DJ dance party will have guests dancing and grooving “around the world” with special entertainment at the America Garden Stage, Future World Fountain Stage and other areas throughout the park. Just for New Year’s Eve, you can move to your own beat with music playing in your headphones at the “Silent Groove” dance party that will take place at Future World Center.
• New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner – Celebrate with a lavish buffet of savory foods and decadent desserts at this ticketed buffet dinner in World Showplace. For reservations, visit disneyworld.com/holidays or call (407) WDW-DINE (3463).

Epcot park hours on Dec. 31, 2017 are 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Disney's Hollywood Studios:

• New Year’s Eve Dance Party – Starting at 7 p.m., guests can join in on a DJ dance party in front of the Chinese Theatre, which will come alive with special projections. The nighttime holiday show Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! will take place at 8 p.m., and finally, guests can ring in the new year at midnight with a showing of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios park hours on Dec. 31, 2017 are 9 a.m. to midnight.

Will you be ringing in 2018 at Walt Disney World?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Donates $2 Million to Make-A-Wish for #ShareYourEars Campaign:

Disney Parks will double its donation to Make-A-Wish from $1 million to $2 million thanks to millions of fans who took part in the #ShareYourEars campaign this holiday season. This will help grant wishes for children with critical illnesses and their families around the world.

There were many fun, silly, wacky, creative, and festive Mickey Mouse ear photos that were sent in from all corners of the world to help make this possible. Every year more than 9,000 Disney-related wishes are granted worldwide with the Make-A-Wish foundation. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog 

Garden Rocks Acts Announced for Flower & Garden, American Adventure to Close for One Month

Garden Rocks Acts Announced for Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival:

Yesterday, the acts for the Garden Rocks Concert series for the 2018 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival were announced. For the 25th year, the Garden Rocks series will feature music from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s with hit-makers in a variety of genres including rock, pop, country, R&B and dance.

New acts this year include Lonestar, British rock legends Foghat, Survivor, Smash Mouth, and more including returning acts such as Simple Plan, the Village People, and so much more. Here is the full calendar of acts throughout the festival:

March 2-5: Night Ranger “Sister Christian”
March 9-12: STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”
March 16-19: Simple Plan “Welcome to My Life”
March 23-26: Little River Band “Reminiscing”
March 30-April 2: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”
April 6-7: Foghat (NEW!) “Slow Ride”
April 8-9: Survivor (NEW!) “Eye of the Tiger”
April 13-14: Smash Mouth (NEW!) “All Star”
April 15-16: Rick Springfield (NEW!) “Jessie’s Girl”
April 20-21: Jo Dee Messina (NEW!) “Stand by Me”
April 22-23: Lonestar (NEW!) “Amazed”
April 27-30: Blood, Sweat and Tears featuring Bo Bice “Spinning Wheel”
May 4-7: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry VIII I Am”
May 11-12: Village People “Y.M.C.A.”
May 13-14: Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles (NEW!) “Hotel California”
May 18-21: The Guess Who “American Woman”
May 25-28: The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”

Garden Rocks performances are at America Gardens Theatre at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and are included with Epcot admission.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

American Adventure to Close for Month Long Refurbishment:

The American Adventure at Epcot's America Pavilion will close for a month long in early 2018. The show will close from January 5 through February 5, 2018. No word on what will happen during the month long refurbishment but guests visiting Epcot during that time sure will miss the classic show.

Source: WDW News Today

Hall of Presidents Re-Opens Today; New Cirque du Soleil Show in Development

Hall of Presidents Re-Opens Today:

Amidst controversy that it wouldn't be ready by the end of the year and months of whether President Donald Trump would speak, after nearly a year of being under refurbishment Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom will re-open officially today. Yesterday, the attraction had a soft opening letting guests see the new and improved show for the first time since Trump became president. 

Here is part of the post from the Disney Parks Blog that details the new enhancements and history of the attraction:

This endeavor began with a single animated figure of President Abraham Lincoln that was developed for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. In 1971, advances in technology made it possible for Imagineers to make Walt Disney’s vision a reality by including every chief executive who ever served the United States of America. 

The history of innovation at The Hall of Presidents continues to this day. In addition to updating the show’s content, Imagineers have incorporated the latest in theatrical design and Audio-Animatronics technology. Landmark moments in history come alive on a panoramic 180-degree screen that transports guests across more than 200 years of the American story. High-impact projection, sound, lighting and other enhancements take guests into rare and indelible moments in history that helped define a nation. 

As has been the tradition with every new president since the attraction debuted, an Audio-Animatronics figure of President Donald J. Trump has been added to the show and features the latest advances in technology that enable smoother and more lifelike movements. President Trump personally recorded remarks exclusively for The Hall of Presidents, just as each sitting president has done for the attraction since the early 1990s. 

Rich in innovative storytelling and tradition, The Hall of Presidents carries a legacy and passion for American history that has been part of Disney Parks for more than 50 years.

The Hall of Presidents new show lasts about 22 minutes and the attraction is shown throughout the day at the Magic Kingdom.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Disney Animated Themed Cirque Du Soleil in Development:

"La Nouba" Cirque Du Soleil's show at Disney Springs will end with its final show on December 31 as it was announced earlier this year. Yesterday, it was announced that a new show is in development for Disney Springs to debut sometime in 2018. 

This original show will be created by Cirque du Soleil and will pay homage to Disney’s rich history of animation, with a vivid story told in a way that only Cirque du Soleil can deliver. Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, elaborated, sharing “We are incredibly inspired by Disney’s immense creative universe. We are convinced that bringing Disney’s magic to life on stage will touch audiences and bring them back to their childhood.”

There is no official opening date for the new show to debut but stay tuned as details are finalized for the show are announced in the coming months. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Galactic Nights Gives Us an Update on Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

During last night's Star Wars: Galactic Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, guests at the event were treated to an update on Batuu and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Lead Imagineer Scott Trowbridge along with fellow Imagineers Robin Reardon and Chris Beatty along with Doug Chiang from Lucasfilm shared details on the new land opening up in 2019.

Earlier last week Disney shared a photo of what looks to be the queue area of the Millennium Falcon attraction and Trowbridge had this share about the attraction:

"We talked a lot about authenticity – how we are building a real place in the Star Wars universe and how we are working hard to get the details right. One of my favorite examples is the Millennium Falcon. We’ve all seen her on screen, but until you climb through that hatch, walk through her hallways, sit inside the cockpit, power her up and actually FLY her yourself, it’s not quite the same."

One of the most exciting details was that they are actually building a fleet of X-wings for the new world. One tap of the metal tells you these are real starships ready for action. I can't wait to see these for real on Batuu. 

In the panel, Chris Beatty also discussed how Imagineers visited Istanbul and Marrakech. They were a big part in helping to tell the story of Batuu and the village/marketplace inside the planet where guests will be able to visit a rich collection of shops and merchant stalls. 

Chris gave an example of a Toydarian in "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" and what does he sell toys of course. Concept art of the stall can be seen above. Inside you'll be able to discover all kinds of  fun and cool toys straight out of the Star Wars galaxy. Exclusive to this outpost, all these offerings will look like they were hand-crafted by local artisans. 

As always stay tuned for more updates on Batuu and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opening at Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2019. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Walt Disney Company Officially Acquires 21st Century Fox; Iger to Stay on Until 2021

This morning it was officially announced that The Walt Disney Company officially acquired Twenty-First Century Fox for $52.4 billion after spinoff of Fox Broadcasting network and stations, Fox News, Fox Business, FS1, FS2, and the Big Ten Network into a separate business for its shareholders. Also with the acquisition which is supposed to take around 12-18 months, Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger will indeed stay on longer than the end of next year and now has extended his contract until the end of 2021.

Here is the complete press release that was released this morning:

DECEMBER 14, 2017
The Walt Disney Company To Acquire Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., After Spinoff Of Certain Businesses, For $52.4 Billion In Stock

21st Century Fox to spin off Fox Broadcasting network and stations, Fox News, Fox Business, FS1, FS2 and Big Ten Network to its shareholders

• Acquisition complements and enhances The Walt Disney Company’s ability to provide consumers around the world with more appealing content and entertainment options
• Transaction to include 21st Century Fox’s film and television studios, cable entertainment networks and international TV businesses
• Popular entertainment properties including X-Men, Avatar, The Simpsons, FX Networks and National Geographic to join Disney’s portfolio
• Expands Disney’s direct-to-consumer offerings with addition of 21st Century Fox’s entertainment content, capabilities in the Americas, Europe and Asia; Hulu stake becomes a controlling interest
• Addition of extensive international properties, including Star in India and Fox’s 39% ownership of Sky across Europe, enhances Disney’s position as a truly global entertainment company with world-class offerings in key regions
• Robert A. Iger to remain Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company through 2021

The Walt Disney Company and Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. (21st Century Fox) today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement for Disney to acquire 21st Century Fox, including the Twentieth Century Fox Film and Television studios, along with cable and international TV businesses, for approximately $52.4 billion in stock (subject to adjustment). Building on Disney’s commitment to deliver the highest quality branded entertainment, the acquisition of these complementary assets would allow Disney to create more appealing content, build more direct relationships with consumers around the world and deliver a more compelling entertainment experience to consumers wherever and however they choose. Immediately prior to the acquisition, 21st Century Fox will separate the Fox Broadcasting network and stations, Fox News Channel, Fox Business Network, FS1, FS2 and Big Ten Network into a newly listed company that will be spun off to its shareholders.

Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders of 21st Century Fox will receive 0.2745 Disney shares for each 21st Century Fox share they hold (subject to adjustment for certain tax liabilities as described below). The exchange ratio was set based on a 30-day volume weighted average price of Disney stock. Disney will also assume approximately $13.7 billion of net debt of 21st Century Fox. The acquisition price implies a total equity value of approximately $52.4 billion and a total transaction value of approximately $66.1 billion (in each case based on the stated exchange ratio assuming no adjustment) for the business to be acquired by Disney, which includes consolidated assets along with a number of equity investments. 

Popular Entertainment Properties to Join Disney Family

Combining with Disney are 21st Century Fox’s critically acclaimed film production businesses, including Twentieth Century Fox, Fox Searchlight Pictures and Fox 2000, which together offer diverse and compelling storytelling businesses and are the homes of Avatar, X-Men, Fantastic Four and Deadpool, as well as The Grand Budapest Hotel, Hidden Figures, Gone Girl, The Shape of Water and The Martian—and its storied television creative units, Twentieth Century Fox Television, FX Productions and Fox21, which have brought The Americans, This Is Us, Modern Family, The Simpsons and so many more hit TV series to viewers across the globe. Disney will also acquire FX Networks, National Geographic Partners, Fox Sports Regional Networks, Fox Networks Group International, Star India and Fox’s interests in Hulu, Sky plc, Tata Sky and Endemol Shine Group.

“The acquisition of this stellar collection of businesses from 21st Century Fox reflects the increasing consumer demand for a rich diversity of entertainment experiences that are more compelling, accessible and convenient than ever before,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “We’re honored and grateful that Rupert Murdoch has entrusted us with the future of businesses he spent a lifetime building, and we’re excited about this extraordinary opportunity to significantly increase our portfolio of well-loved franchises and branded content to greatly enhance our growing direct-to-consumer offerings. The deal will also substantially expand our international reach, allowing us to offer world-class storytelling and innovative distribution platforms to more consumers in key markets around the world.”

“We are extremely proud of all that we have built at 21st Century Fox, and I firmly believe that this combination with Disney will unlock even more value for shareholders as the new Disney continues to set the pace in what is an exciting and dynamic industry,” said Rupert Murdoch, Executive Chairman of 21st Century Fox. “Furthermore, I’m convinced that this combination, under Bob Iger’s leadership, will be one of the greatest companies in the world. I’m grateful and encouraged that Bob has agreed to stay on, and is committed to succeeding with a combined team that is second to none.”

At the request of both 21st Century Fox and the Disney Board of Directors, Mr. Iger has agreed to continue as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company through the end of calendar year 2021.

“When considering this strategic acquisition, it was important to the Board that Bob remain as Chairman and CEO through 2021 to provide the vision and proven leadership required to successfully complete and integrate such a massive, complex undertaking,” said Orin C. Smith, Lead Independent Director of the Disney Board. “We share the belief of our counterparts at 21st Century Fox that extending his tenure is in the best interests of our company and our shareholders, and will be critical to Disney’s ability to effectively drive long-term value from this extraordinary acquisition.”

Benefits to Consumers

The acquisition will enable Disney to accelerate its use of innovative technologies, including its BAMTECH platform, to create more ways for its storytellers to entertain and connect directly with audiences while providing more choices for how they consume content. The complementary offerings of each company enhance Disney’s development of films, television programming and related products to provide consumers with a more enjoyable and immersive entertainment experience.

Bringing on board 21st Century Fox’s entertainment content and capabilities, along with its broad international footprint and a world-class team of managers and storytellers, will allow Disney to further its efforts to provide a more compelling entertainment experience through its direct-to-consumer (DTC) offerings. This transaction will enable Disney’s recently announced Disney and ESPN-branded DTC offerings, as well as Hulu, to create more appealing and engaging experiences, delivering content, entertainment and sports to consumers around the world wherever and however they want to enjoy it.

The agreement also provides Disney with the opportunity to reunite the X-Men, Fantastic Four and Deadpool with the Marvel family under one roof and create richer, more complex worlds of inter-related characters and stories that audiences have shown they love. The addition of Avatar to its family of films also promises expanded opportunities for consumers to watch and experience storytelling within these extraordinary fantasy worlds. Already, guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort can experience the magic of Pandora—The World of Avatar, a new land inspired by the Fox film franchise that opened earlier this year. And through the incredible storytelling of National Geographic—whose mission is to explore and protect our planet and inspire new generations through education initiatives and resources—Disney will be able to offer more ways than ever before to bring kids and families the world and all that is in it.

Enhancing Disney’s Worldwide Offerings

Adding 21st Century Fox’s premier international properties enhances Disney’s position as a truly global entertainment company with authentic local production and consumer services across high-growth regions, including a richer array of local, national and global sporting events that ESPN can make available to fans around the world. The transaction boosts Disney’s international revenue mix and exposure.

Disney’s international reach would greatly expand through the addition of Sky, which serves nearly 23 million households in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria and Italy; Fox Networks International, with more than 350 channels in 170 countries; and Star India, which operates 69 channels reaching 720 million viewers a month across India and more than 100 other countries.

Prior to the close of the transaction, it is anticipated that 21st Century Fox will seek to complete its planned acquisition of the 61% of Sky it doesn’t already own. Sky is one of Europe’s most successful pay television and creative enterprises with innovative and high-quality direct-to-consumer platforms, resonant brands and a strong and respected leadership team. 21st Century Fox remains fully committed to completing the current Sky offer and anticipates that, subject to the necessary regulatory consents, the transaction will close by June 30, 2018. Assuming 21st Century Fox completes its acquisition of Sky prior to closing of the transaction, The Walt Disney Company would assume full ownership of Sky, including the assumption of its outstanding debt, upon closing.

Transaction Highlights

The acquisition is expected to yield at least $2 billion in cost savings from efficiencies realized through the combination of businesses, and to be accretive to earnings before the impact of purchase accounting for the second fiscal year after the close of the transaction.

Terms of the transaction call for Disney to issue approximately 515 million new shares to 21st Century Fox shareholders, representing approximately a 25% stake in Disney on a pro forma basis. The per share consideration is subject to adjustment for certain tax liabilities arising from the spinoff and other transactions related to the acquisition. The initial exchange ratio of 0.2745 Disney shares for each 21st Century Fox share was set based on an estimate of such tax liabilities to be covered by an $8.5 billion cash dividend to 21st Century Fox from the company to be spun off. The exchange ratio will be adjusted immediately prior to closing of the acquisition based on an updated estimate of such tax liabilities. Such adjustment could increase or decrease the exchange ratio, depending upon whether the final estimate is lower or higher, respectively, than the initial estimate. However, if the final estimate of the tax liabilities is lower than the initial estimate, the first $2 billion of that adjustment will instead be made by net reduction in the amount of the cash dividend to 21st Century Fox from the company to be spun off. The amount of such tax liabilities will depend upon several factors, including tax rates in effect at the time of closing as well as the value of the company to be spun off.

The Boards of Directors of Disney and 21st Century Fox have approved the transaction, which is subject to shareholder approval by 21st Century Fox and Disney shareholders, clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, a number of other non-United States merger and other regulatory reviews, and other customary closing conditions.

Important Information About the Transaction and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed transaction between The Walt Disney Company (“Disney”) and Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. (“21CF”), Disney and 21CF will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement on Form S-4 that will include a joint proxy statement of Disney and 21CF that also constitutes a prospectus of Disney. 21CF will file with the SEC a registration statement for a newly formed subsidiary (“SpinCo”), which is contemplated to own certain assets and businesses of 21CF not being acquired by Disney in connection with the proposed transaction. 21CF and Disney may also file other documents with the SEC regarding the proposed transaction. This document is not a substitute for the joint proxy statement/prospectus or registration statement or any other document which 21CF or Disney may file with the SEC.

Source: The Walt Disney Company

Stitch's Great Escape to Close Forever (Finally); New Details on Terralina Crafted Italian

Stitch's Great Escape to Close Forever (Finally):

It appears as the end is finally coming for Stitch's Great Escape. According to WDW News Today, the attraction will close forever once its season run ends on January 6, 2018. A new attraction, rumored to be Wreck-it-Ralph themed, will take its place.

Disney has not yet made the official announcement but it is expected in the next few days. Stitch's Great Escape will have its final seasonal operation run from December 23 through January 6 then close for good.

It has been one of the worst rated attractions and has been running on seasonal operation since October 2016.

Source: WDW News Today

New Details on Terralina Crafted Italian Coming to Disney Springs:

Terralina Crafted Italian will be opening in Disney Springs in 2018 and today on the 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas we got more details on the restaurant. Coming from the Levy Restaurant group, which brought us Paddlefish earlier this year, Terralina Crafted Italian will transport guests to "la dolce vita" (the sweet life), essence of the spectacular Lake District of Northern Italy.

Alison Weber, Chief Creative Officer for Levy, had this to share on details of the restaurant:

"The story here is of a first-generation Italian family, from the Lake District, who built a home in Disney Springs, expanding it over the years to welcome more friends and neighbors to enjoy their hospitality, and, of course, food! At Terralina Crafted Italian, every detail supports the philosophy that ‘life is meant to be savored through the simplest of pleasures.’ The table is even set that way … ready for good conversations, storytelling and moments to be enjoyed.”

Featuring an open rotunda that welcomes guests with a rustic stone fireplace, a new outdoor patio with a veranda bar that spills out into the Disney Springs promenade, and a two-story glass conservatory that showcases stunning views of Lake Buena Vista, every element of the décor feels fresh and new. The herb garden outside the front doors, will give a nod to the medley of flavors that are waiting to be discovered inside and the curated collection of family photos and vintage heirlooms that are scattered throughout the space.

James Beard-Award Winning Chef Tony Mantuano will lead menu development and he’ll have some serious culinary delights planned for the wood-burning oven and open kitchen on display in the location. Terralina Crafted Italian is expected to open sometime in early 2018 and details on the menu are expected soon. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for those delicious details.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney, 21st Century Fox Deal Likely to be Announced Thursday

The Disney-Fox mega deal could be announced as early as tomorrow according to CNBC. According to insiders, the companies are on a 'glide path' to make an announcement Thursday. Disney in fact became the sole bidder for Fox after Comcast dropped its pursuit on Monday. 

In the deal the Walt Disney Company would acquire most but not all of Fox's television and movie assets, while Fox's news and business network. along with its broadcast and sports networks would remain separate. Fox's assets in the deal with Disney are seen as more than a $60 billion value. The exact amount has not been confirmed though. 

The enterprise value of the Fox's assets in the Disney deal is seen as above $60 billion, according to sources. Current Fox shareholders would get one share of the Fox company that remains after the movie and television assets are sold plus shares of Disney in a fixed exchange ratio.

Stay tuned as this deal would come on the same day as many fans flock to see Episode VIII in the Star Wars trilogy tomorrow night in "Star Wars: The Last Jedi."

Source: CNBC

Flights of Wonder to be Replaced by "Up" Themed Bird Show in 2018

As has been rumored for the last few weeks, Flights of Wonder will end at year's end for a new show in honor of Disney's Animal Kingdom's 20th Anniversary. It was confirmed yesterday during yesterday's post on the Disney Parks Blog for its 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas. 

Flights of Wonder will have its last show on December 31, 2017 and a new show featuring Russell and Dug from "Up" will debut in Spring 2018.

Beginning just in time for the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom next year, this new experience will offer guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world in their newest adventure at the Caravan Theater in Anandapur village. There will be “UP” close encounters each day with amazing winged creatures!

Stay tuned on for more information on the new "Up" themed bird show coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom next year. Are you excited for the new show featuring Russell and Dug?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Full Menus for Marketplaces at Epcot's International Festival of the Arts

Last week, I shared with you the entertainment and broadway stars coming to the 2nd Annual Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Today, I bring to you the menus of the marketplaces that will be scattered around the festival this year. Here they are:

GF = Gluten Free

V = Vegan 

The Deconstructed Dish:

Embark on an edible adventure with delicious dishes that dazzle!

Food:

Atypical BLT with Crispy Pork Belly, Tomato Jam and Soft Poached Egg

Irregular Reuben with Shredded Corned Beef, Thousand Island Dressing, Pickled Red Cabbage and a Rye Curl

Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake: Whipped, New York Style Cheesecake with Fresh Florida Strawberries and Sugar Cookies with Micro-basil

Beverages:

Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake with Maple Bourbon Cream, a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon

Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake with Maple Syrup, a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon (non-alcoholic)

Intrinsic Cabernet Sauvignon, Washington

Pop-Artsicle: Red, White and Blue Frozen Slushy (non-alcoholic)

Cuisine Classique

Prepare to be amazed with these hearty braised bites and traditional Old World delights!

Food:

Red Wine Braised Short Rib with Parsnip Purée, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes and Aged Balsamic

Seared Corvina with braised Ratatouille and Lemon-Thyme Beurre Blanc (GF)

Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Saint-Honore Tart: Caramel Cream Tart with Caramel Glaze topped with Cream Puffs

Beverages:

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale Chico, CA

Bell’s Two Hearted American-style India Pale Ale Kalamazoo, MI

Duck Rabbit Milk Stout Farmville, NC

Beer Braising Flight

Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva Art Series Logrono, Spain

Domaine Savary Chablis, Burgundy

The Artist’s Table

Satisfy hunger with these savory plates—all prepared using oven and stove-top techniques!

Food:

Roasted Pork Roulade with Butternut Squash Purée, Marble Potatoes and Baby Carrots with a Red Wine Sauce featuring Melissa’s Produce

Pan-Seared Scallop with Chorizo, Roasted Red Pepper Coulis and a Parmesan Crisp (GF)

Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Beverages:

Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight: White, Milk, Dark (non-alcoholic)

Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate: Dark Chocolate with Chambord

Perla Santa Coffee-flavored Wine

Barrymore Rosé, Monterey County, CA

Carmel Road Drew’s Blend Pinot Noir, Monterey County, CA

The Painter’s Palate

Sample this palatable palette of delicacies that looks as good as it tastes… mangiare!

Food:

Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts:

Whipped Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese with Fresh Herbs (V)

Chicken Salad with Shaved Fennel and Fresh Herbs

Spicy Tuna with Wasabi and Seaweed Salad

Gallery Bites: A Trio of Hors d’Oeuvres

Chilled Shrimp with Cucumber Cream Cheese on a Crostini

Traditional Deviled Egg with Candied Bacon

Crispy Truffled Risotto Ball with Stone-ground Mustard

Pop’t Art: Abstract Designed Sugar Cookie with Strawberry Filling (V)

White Chocolate Figment Puzzle on an Artist Palette

White Chocolate Painting with Chocolate Easel

Beverages:

Pomegranate Mule featuring Van Gogh Vodka

North Coast Brewing Co. Scrimshaw Pilsner Style Beer, Fort Bragg, CA

M.I.A. Brewing Company Jazz IPA, Doral, FL

Central 28 Beer Company Miss Mary Brown Oatmeal Brown Ale, DeBary, FL

Popcorn Pairing Flight

Pop Eats!

Unearth the tasty treasures and tantalizing textures of modern art-inspired eats!

Food:

Sous Vide Poulet Rouge Chicken Roulade with Apples and Sage served with Warm Brie Fondue, Blueberry and Beet Gel and garnished with Apple and Beet Chips

Shrimp Ceviche with Lime Mint Foam

Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Chocolate (V)

Pop’t Art: Modern-design Sugar Cookie with Strawberry Filling (V)

Beverages:

Cloudem Sparkling Wine

Cloudem Sparkling Wine in a Souvenir Glass

Popping Bubbles Cocktail

Decadent Delights

Indulge in a gallery of divine delectables that transform dessert into a fine art!

Food:

White Chocolate and Purple Sweet Potato Mousse, Salted Caramel and Maple Meringue with Coconut

Crisp Caramel Chocolate Mousse Bar, Flavored Merengue Kisses and Passion Fruit Sauce

S’mores Tart: House-smoked Buttermilk Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Mousse, Toasted Marshmallow Meringue, Graham Cracker Dust and Malted Milk Chocolate Sauce

Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Beverages:

Ferreira 10 Year Old Port

3 Daughters Strawberry Nitro, St. Petersburg, FL

Breckenridge Nitro Vanilla Porter, Breckenridge, CO

Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, England

Neapolitan Beer Flight

Coppo Moncalvina Moscato d’Asti, Piedmont

The Masterpiece Kitchen

Raise your glass and celebrate this fabulous fusion of food and wine—cheers!

Food:

Charcuterie Palette with Artisan Cured Meats, Nueske’s Smoked Beef and Cheese

Smoked Salmon Tartare, Caviar, Crisp Lavash and Traditional Accompaniments

Wild Mushroom Risotto, Aged Parmesan, Truffle Shavings and Zinfandel Reduction (V)

Triple Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Crunch, Dark Chocolate Sauce and Gold Leaf from our Master Pastry Chef

Beverages:

Perrier-Jouët Belle Époque Brut Champagne

Classic Sidecar with a Chocolate Twist

The Meeker Vineyard Winemakers’ Handprint Merlot, Sonoma County, CA

Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut

Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut Rosé

Silverado Vineyards Chardonnay

Additional Festival Locations

Delight your appetite with mouthwatering morsels, nibbles and noshes from these year-round food stops.

Fife & Drum 

Food:

Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Takumi Table – Japan Pavilion 

Food:

Chirashi Sushi and Haupia Pearl: Salmon, Tuna and Yuzu Miso with Coconut Tapioca Pudding

Taiyaki: Stuffed Japanese Pastry with Sesame Cream and Raspberry Sauce

Beverages:

Calpico Yogurt Strawberry Swirl Sake

Masu Sake in a Personalized Wooden Cup

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company 

Beverages: 

All Festival specialty drinks served hot or cold.

Canada: Night Sky Latte: A delicious shot of Joffrey’s Italian Espresso mixed with Creamy Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, topped with Steamed Milk and Whipped Cream

Disney Traders: Cinnamon Sensation: A shot of Italian Espresso mixed with RumChata and Cinnamon Whiskey, blended with Steamed Milk and Whipped Cream

Future World East: Painted Lady Latte: A shot of Joffrey’s Italian Espresso mixed with rich Baileys Espresso Créme Liqueur, topped with Steamed Milk and Whipped Cream

The American Adventure: Dreamy Bourbon: A shot of Italian Espresso mixed with Bourbon Whiskey Cream Liqueur, blended with Steamed Milk and Whipped Cream

El Arista Hambriento (The Hungry Artist) 

Food:

Mixiote de Cordero: Wrapped Slow Braised Lamb marinated in Tres Chiles Paste and Spices

Tacos de Puerco: Two Corn Tortillas with Slow-roasted Pork Shoulder marinated in Ancho Paste, served with Sweet Plantain Purée and garnished with Pea Tendrils

Atole de Fresa and Mexican Concha Bread: Warm Strawberry Drink served with Mexican Concha Bread

Beverages:

Frida Guava Margarita

Diego Passion Margarita on the rocks

Allende Craft Mexican Golden Ale

Refreshment Outpost 

Food:

Chilled Shrimp, Quinoa, Layered Vegetables, Spiced Yogurt and Red Pepper Coulis

Refreshment Port 

Food:

Croissant Doughnut filled with Pastry Cream and topped with Colored Pearls

The Painted Panda – China 

Food:

Coconut Panda Rice Cake

Crispy Fried Shrimp in a Wonton Chip Lotus Flower

Crystal Mooncake with Fruit Filling, garnished with Toasted Coconut

Beverages:

M.S.G.: A cooler of Mango Wine, Strawberry Syrup and Ginger Ale

Fortune Cookie: ByeJoe Red, Amaretto, Coconut and Pineapple

Strawberry Bubble Tea (non-alcoholic)

L’Art du Cuisine Francaise – France 

Food:

Rillettes du Mans, Cornichons, Carré du Boulanger: House-made Pork Rillettes, Cornichons and House-made Bread

Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse: Salmon in a Puff Pastry Crust, Paul Bocuse-style, with Spinach and Beurre Blanc Sauce

Le Coucher de Soleil: Sunset Mango and Raspberry Cake

Beverages:

Frosé: Frozen Côtes de Provence Rosé Wine with Grey Goose Vodka and Peach Purée

L’Or par Edmond Thery: French Sparkling Chardonnay

Alsace, Pinot Blanc, Reserve 2015, Gustave Lorentz

Bordeaux, Château Tour de Granins, Grand Poujeaux, Moulis en Medoc 2015

Mosaic Canteen – Morocco 

Food:

Hummus Trifle: Layered Hummus topped with Spiced Beef, Pine Nuts and Dry Cherries, served with Pita Chips

Mediterranean Flat Bread with Zaatar, Olive Oil Artichoke, Olives, Mozzarella and Feta Cheese

Chebbakia: Hand-twisted Strips of Fried Dough coated with Honey, Rosewater and Sesame Seeds

Beverages:

Embrace the Arak: Massaya Arak, Grapefruit Juice and Grenadine

Tarima Red, Alicante, Spain

Casa Beer

L’Arte di Mangiare – Italy 

Food:

Involtini di Salmone al Basilico, Piso Venere, Salsa Romesco: Basil-scented Salmon Roulade, Purple Rice and Romesco Sauce

Sformato di Melanzane e Pomodori, Mozzarella Fior di Latte: Tomato and Eggplant Terrine, Fior di Latte Mozzarella

Crema Fitta, Pesche e Rucola Pesto, Ciliege di Amarasca: Cream Fritters, Peach and Arugula Pesto and Amarena Cherries

Beverages:

Amaretto Bellini: Amaretto, White Peach Purée and Prosecco

Vodka Rossini: Vodka, Strawberry Purée and Prosecco

Prosecco, Villa Sandi

Moscato Fior d’Arancio, Montegrande

Corbinello, Montegrande

Pinot Grigio, Bosco del Merlo

Merlot, Montegrande

Moretti Lager

Moretti La Rossa Double Malt Beer

The 2nd Annual Epcot International Festival of the Arts begins January 12, 2018 and runs through February 19, 2018.

New Images & Details on the Disney Skyliner; Grand Opening Gala on New Year's Eve at The Edison

New Images & Details on the Disney Skyliner:

Since the D23 announcement on the new Disney Skyliner coming to Walt Disney World, many have been wondering about the new transportation system. Well as part of the 12 days of Disney Parks Christmas, more details and concept art on the new transportation system traveling the sky from Disney's Caribbean Beach, Disney's Pop Century, Disney's Art of Animation, Epcot, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. 

Select Disney Skyliner cabins will have iconic Disney characters incorporated into their exterior design to give the appearance that a Disney pal is riding along with guests, such as characters from the ‘Fab Five,’ figures from Disney attractions, fan favorites from movies, and more.

International Gateway at Epcot:

The design of the Disney Skyliner station at International Gateway at Epcot will be inspired by the park’s nearby European Pavilions, and will be covered with metal and glass canopies, hand-painted murals and ornamental steel structures that harken back to the early 18th century Art Nouveau style. Guests traveling to Epcot via the Disney Skyliner will be welcomed to the park with a rare birds-eye view of World Showcase.

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort:

The Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort station will be the hub of activity for Disney Skyliner. This station is inspired by the open air village marketplaces of the Caribbean and will showcase the nearby resort’s architectural detailing and color schemes. At this station, passengers will be able to transfer gondola routes to reach their destination, or are invited to sit and admire the waterfront resort setting.

Disney's Hollywood Studios:

The design style of the station at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will fit with that of the park’s main entrance and bus stations. Passengers traveling here from the Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort station can expect a new aerial perspective of the park’s iconic attractions, like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Disney's Pop Century and Disney's Art of Animation:

Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will share a Disney Skyliner station that feels whimsical and contextual with both resorts. Upon departing the gondola station, Skyliner passengers will ascend over Hourglass Lake and enjoy a panoramic view of these two colorful resorts.

Stay tuned for future updates and an official opening date for the Disney Skyliner. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Grand Opening Gala on New Year's Eve at The Edison:

The Edison will host a Grand Opening Gala on New Year's Eve, an exclusive event for guests 21 and older, will begin at 7:30 p.m. Here are the details on the event:

The Edison at Disney Springs will host a dazzling gala Grand Opening on New Year’s Eve, showcasing its lavish Industrial Gothic-style, crave-worthy food and exceptional cocktails plus a truly spectacular lineup of world-class entertainment all within Central Florida’s newest entertainment hot-spot. The Edison’s doors will open at 7:30 p.m., allowing guests ample time to eat, drink and be merry, right up through a special midnight toast to ring in 2018. A fully immersive dining experience, The Edison features multiple themed areas to explore, such as the Lab performance space, The Ember Parlour, Telegraph Lounge, The Patent Office, The Tesla Lounge, The Radio Room, and the Waterfront Patio.

Tickets for The Edison’s New Year’s Eve Grand Opening are $150 and available to a limited number of lucky guests to purchase. The ticket price includes tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, live-action food stations and a wide selection of beer, wine and premium spirits from 8 p.m until midnight; plus, a selection of coffee, desserts and a celebratory midnight toast to ring in the new year.

A minimum age of 21 is required to attend this event. Guests arriving to The Edison Orlando are asked to adhere to our dress code.  Men may wear slacks, jeans or dress shorts.  No ball caps, sleeveless shirts or flip-flops are permitted.  Jackets are optional.

Tickets for the event, can be purchased on the Patina Restaurant Group website.

Shanghai Disneyland's Toy Story Land to Open April 26; DCA Food & Wine Expands to Six Weeks

Shanghai Disneyland's Toy Story Land to Open April 26:

Last week, we got our first look at concept art for Shanghai Disneyland's first expansion for its 7th themed land in Toy Story Land. Yesterday, during Day 3 of the 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas on the Disney Parks Blog an opening date was revealed for the land.

Toy Story Land will open on April 26, 2018. The expansion includes three brand new attractions in Slinky Dog Spin, Rex's Racer, and Woody's Roundup, a restaurant called the Toy Box Cafe, and a meet and greet area in Old West where you can meet your favorite Toy Story characters. You can read our story about the expansion here. 

The new land will bring unparalleled storytelling and creativity, making this international destination bigger and better than ever. Stay tuned for updates on this Toy Story Land opening in Shanghai and our own Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios right here on It All Started With a Mouse. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Expands to 6 Weeks in 2018:

The first story in yesterday's Day 3 of the 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas was that the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival will expand to 6 weeks in 2018. It will run from March 2 through April 12, 2018 bringing delicious cuisine, specialty beverages, and exciting entertainment as it makes it return for the third straight year. 

More than a dozen Festival Marketplaces will feature California-inspired tastes and sips. Guests will experience presentations and demonstrations with celebrity chefs such as Robert Irvine and Alex Guarnaschelli; food and beverage tastings; winemaker dinners; beer, wine and spirit seminars – all in addition to live music, entertainment and special activities throughout the festival.
The festival’s signature events will include new experiences such as the Disney Family of Wines Dinner, as well as returning favorites like Sweet Sundays and the Winemaker or Brewmaster Dinners. Another guest-favorite returning to the festival is the Junior Chef experience, with hands-on fun led by Chef Goofy, for children ages 3 to 11.

Stay tuned for more details on the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival as they are revealed in the future.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Details Revealed on the Transformation of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

On the second day of the 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas on the Disney Parks Blog we got a look at the transformation of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort.

Old Port Royale at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort will be reimagined as the port of entry where guests will check in before embarking on their island vacation. This centralized location will offer resort guests more convenient access to services, amenities and dining, including an all-new Centertown Market for casual eats, an all-new Shutters restaurant offering waterfront dining adjacent to the new Banana Cabana outdoor bar and lounge, and Calypso Trading Post for shopping.

Centertown Market (Concept Art seen below) will be expanded and enclosed, creating a quick-service restaurant with an indoor street market vibe. Guests will enter the space under a large palapa-like structure, accented with glowing colored light pendants made from glass bottles. The market will feature open shutters, wooden light posts, awnings, ornamentation and unique seating areas. Guests will also have access to the Grab n’ Go market for a specialty coffee and quick bites.

Shutters (seen above) will re-open and will be located on the waterfront of Old Port Royale, transporting guests to a beachfront home in the tropical islands. Large open shutters will allow the sun to cast a warm light into the space adorned with handmade items that appear as they’ve been found on the islands. Leaves and floral design motifs will fill the space, celebrating the natural beauty of the Caribbean.

A festive poolside bar, Banana Cabana will be a great place to gather for food and drinks, immersing guests into the fun and relaxation of island life. Cabana-style drapes will flank seating areas and re-purposed steel drums will illuminate a central communal table made from a wooden boat.

Day 2 is done, what will Day 3 of the 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas on the Disney Parks Blog bring to us.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Could Iger be Staying Longer as Disney CEO Than Expected?

Bob Iger for months has been saying he would be stepping down in 2019 as Disney CEO. Now that a deal to purchase part of Twenty-First Century Fox is set to finalized by early as next week, it is now being reported that Iger is likely to extend his term beyond 2019. 

According to CNBC, Disney would extend Iger's contract once the deal for 21st Century Fox is finalized. He would remain head to help oversee the potential merger of the two companies.

The deal would include Fox's Nat Geo, Star, regional sports networks, movie studios and stakes in Sky and Hulu, among other properties. It would not include Fox's news and business news divisions, broadcast network or Fox Sports.

Since 2005, when Iger became head of Disney he has overseen acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm. He has held several executive positions with the Walt Disney Company over the last two decades.

Source: CNBC

First Look at New Floats for Pixar Play Parade; Disney on Broadway Concert Lineup Announced

First Look at New Floats for Pixar Play Parade to Debut April 13:

Starting yesterday the Disney Parks Blog began their 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas in which over the next 12 days they will reveal some new and exciting things coming to Disney Parks in 2018. The first day yesterday revealed the three new floats that will debut as part of the Pixar Play Parade which will return to Disneyland on April 13 as part of Pixar Fest.

The parade will begin as all Pixar films have, with an appearance by the iconic and adorable Pixar Lamp. Rolling ahead of the famous lamp will be the familiar yellow Pixar Ball, making a cameo in Pixar Play Parade, as it has in many Pixar films.

Next up to be joining the parade are characters from the beloved film, “Up.” Wilderness Explorer Russell will appear astride the colorful flightless bird, Kevin, with Carl Fredricksen and Dug following behind amid green foliage and snipe chicks, with Carl’s tethered house floating above.

Finally, one more Pixar story coming to Pixar Play Parade is “Inside Out.” Perched atop colorful memory orbs, Joy and Sadness take flight aboard Bing Bong’s rocket wagon, with Bing Bong himself cheering them on! This will be the first time that guests will see Bing Bong in the parks.

Stay tuned over the next 12 days as more exciting things are revealed about Disney Parks in 2018.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney on Broadway Concert Lineup Announced for Festival of the Arts:

Believe it or not the Epcot International Festival of the Arts is just over a month away and now we have just who will be performing for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series. Over the six weeks of the festival guests can enjoy musical pairings of Broadway talent singing Disney on Broadway tunes at the American Gardens Theatre. Here is the lineup:

January 12-15, 19-22: Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massay – Tarzan, Aladdin, Newsies, Frozen

January 26-29, February 2-5: Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White – Tarzan, The Lion King, Aida, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid

February 9-12, 16-19: Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland – Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Mary Poppins, Newsies, Frozen

The 2nd Annual Epcot International Festival of the Arts runs January 12 through February 19, 2018. 

Source: WDW News Today