Minnie's Seasonal Dine Will Now Include Lunch; Mandy Moore & Zachary Levi Announce "Tangled: The Series" Debut

Minnie's Seasonal Dine Will Now Include Lunch:

Minnie's Seasonal Dine at Hollywood Studios' Hollywood & Vine will now include lunch as well as dinner. Currently, it character lunch buffet is served at dinner only, but beginning May 14 lunch will also be included. The Disney Junior Play 'N Dine will now only be offered at breakfast. 

At lunch and dinner, Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Goofy will appear for celebrations centered on each season. As each new season comes, unique music, décor and menu items celebrate the winter holidays, spring, summer and Halloween.

Reservations for the new lunch option can be made beginning tomorrow, February 1 by visiting WaltDisneyWorld.com/Dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Mandy Moore & Zachary Levi Announce "Tangled: The Series" Debut:

Today, Mandy Moore (Rapunzel) and Zachary Levi (Flynn Rider) announced in a very cute video the premiere date of "Tangled: The Series." The show will premiere on the Disney Channel on March 24 at 7:30 p.m. EST just two weeks after the Disney Channel original movie, "Tangled: Before Ever After" airs on March 10 at 8 p.m. EST. Check out the video where Moore and Levi try to finish each other sentences in the announcement:

"According to Disney Channel, “the visually vibrant animated adventure/comedy movie and series unfold as Rapunzel acquaints herself with her parents, her kingdom and the people of Corona. Her irrepressible spirit and natural curiosity lead her to realize that that there is so much more she needs to learn about the world and herself before she can assume her role as Princess of Corona. Beloved characters from the feature film accompany Rapunzel on her journey, including her partner in life Eugene; her loyal chameleon sidekick, Pascal; no-nonsense and dutiful horse, Maximus; and the Snuggly Duckling Pub Thugs. The series introduces newcomer Cassandra (voiced by Broadway’s Eden Espinosa), a tough-as-nails Lady-in-Waiting, who becomes Rapunzel’s good friend and confidante."

We also learned today that Pat Caroll (yes you read that right Ursula herself) will be lending her voice to the show as Old Lady Crowley. To get a full list of the cast read here.

Source: Oh My Disney

Final "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Released

Tonight, during ABC's "The Bachelor,"  Luke Evans (Gaston) and Josh Gad (LeFou) helped debut the final trailer for "Beauty and the Beast." The trailer did not disappoint as I am still unsure my emotions can handle seeing this film (Don't Judge). Check it out below and try not to cry:

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action re-telling of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs. “Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. The film stars: Emma Watson as Belle; Dan Stevens as the Beast; Luke Evans as Gaston, the handsome, but shallow villager who woos Belle; Oscar® winner Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s eccentric, but lovable father; Josh Gad as Lefou, Gaston’s long-suffering aide-de-camp; Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts.

"Beauty and the Beast" will waltz into theaters March 17.

Disney Quest to Close July 3 Making Way for The NBA Experience

After rumors have been swirling that the deal between the NBA and Disney had broken things off, many said The NBA Experience although announced last year wouldn't be coming to Disney Springs. Well, the issues have been worked out as Disney just announced that Disney Quest will close on July 3 to make way for The NBA Experience. 

"Until July 3, DisneyQuest will continue to offer a great interactive experience for all guests. Disney fans of classic arcade game favorites and virtual worlds featured at the indoor theme park are invited to come out and enjoy the experiences.

As we’ve previously shared, The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort will be a one-of-a-kind basketball-themed experience featuring hands-on activities that put guests of all ages right in the middle of NBA game action. There will be immersive NBA video productions and numerous interactive experiences, as well as a restaurant and a retail store." - Thomas Smith, Disney Parks Blog

No set opening date was announced for The NBA Experience but stay tuned in the future for updates. This was definitely a surprise as this news wasn't expected. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Files Patent that Will Sense Guests Emotions; D23 to Hold Advanced Screening of Beauty and the Beast

Disney Files Patent that will Sense Guests Emotions Altering Ride Experience:

I love when new patents are filed by Disney because you just never know what they are going to come up with next. Today, the Orlando Business Journal discovered another Disney wonder in a patent filed that will alter a guests' ride experience by sensing their emotions while riding. The patent is called, "Sensing and Managing Vehicle Behavior Based on Occupant Awareness." For example from what was filed, from a camera on the vehicle or from a wearable device (aka the MagicBand), the ride system will read the rider's facial expressions such as being excited or bored. Then it will alter the course of the attraction to increase or decrease speed, spin more or less often, changing the tone of display scenery and/or more to improve the ride for guests.

"The technology would allow rides to adjust show content appropriate for pre-teens, teenagers or adults; or for thrill-seeking and non thrill-seeking passengers. The control system may also operate the vehicle to address (e.g. even solve in some cases) motion sickness issues for passengers such as by adjusting speed or movement patterns of a vehicle. [Through RFID or some other identifying system] access one or more ride experience goals (or expectations) for the occupant. For example, the occupant may simply desire transportation while in the automated trackless vehicle and, hence, will not be wanting to interact with to be entertained by external display systems. In other cases, though, the occupant may have provided goals/expectations (e.g. by completing a questionnaire on a website or the like) that indicate they want to be educated during the ride, be entertained in a particular manner during the ride, be informed of sales on services or merchandise during the ride, and so on. In the same or other cases, the goals/expectations may indicate whether the ride experience" should be thrilling, as smooth as possible, or something in between, said the patent.

Besides the motions of the ride the patent also stated that it will be able to sense the passengers comfort levels such as temperature by altering the air-conditioning on the ride vehicle to make it more pleasant. What do you think or should I say how do you feel about this new patent filed by Disney?

D23 to Hold Advanced Screening of "Beauty and the Beast":

D23 will be holding an advance screening of "Beauty and the Beast" for members before it is released on March 17. On March 8, members will have a chance to see the film in advance on the afternoon of Disney's Annual Shareholder Meeting at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center. Before the screening, a limited number of D23 Gold and Gold Family members will be treated to a complimentary "Be Our Guest" luncheon. Here are more details on the event:

DETAILS
The “Be Our Guest” luncheon will begin for Gold and Gold Family Members at 12:30 p.m., following the Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Check-in will begin at 12:15 p.m.; please do not arrive before 12:15 p.m. RSVP is required.

The screening will begin at 2 p.m. at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. Check-in will begin at 1:45 p.m.; please do not arrive before 1:45 p.m.

Join us for a special preview of Walt Disney Studios’ upcoming live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic Beauty and the Beast, a stunning, cinematic event celebrating one of the most beloved tales ever told. On the afternoon of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders at the Bellco Theatre at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado, all D23 Members are invited to see the film before its release on March 17!

Beauty and the Beast is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a Beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart of the true Prince within.

Before the screening, a limited number of D23 Gold and Gold Family Members will have the opportunity to put our service to the test and join us for a complimentary “Be Our Guest” luncheon. This opportunity is a great time to mix and mingle with fellow D23 Gold Members!

NOTE:
D23 General and Gold Members may reserve a space for themselves and one (1) guest for the Beauty and the Beast screening. D23 Gold Family Members may reserve a space for themselves and up to three (3) guests for the Beauty and the Beast screening. D23 Gold Members may reserve a space for themselves and one (1) guest for the “Be Our Guest” luncheon. D23 Gold Family Members may reserve a space for themselves and up to three (3) guests for the “Be Our Guest” luncheon. There are a limited number of spaces available. D23 Members will be required to provide their membership number when reserving tickets. Tickets may be picked up only with a valid photo ID. D23 Members who do not bring their valid photo ID may not be admitted to the event. Ticketed members who do not attend the event forfeit their place as well as all experiences, benefits, and gifts associated with the event. All D23 Special Events are subject to change without notice. D23 reserves the right to cancel and refund tickets not purchased by verified D23 Gold Members. Reservations are non-transferable and non-refundable. Photography will be permitted at specific points during the event. No video or audio recording of any kind will be permitted.

Tickets for the event will go on sale this Thursday, February 2, at 10 a.m. PT. Go to D23.com for link to ticketing. 

Stay tuned later this evening as the final trailer for Disney's live-action remake of its animated classic "Beauty and the Beast" will debut during tonight's airing of ABC's "The Bachelor" at 8 ET/7 CT. Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" dances into theaters March 17, 2017. 

Recipe of the Week: Cheddar Cheese Soup from Le Cellier

While I am not a soup eater, this soup comes up during the MouseLife podcast almost every week. So this recipe is for them. This week's recipe of the week is the Cheddar Cheese Soup from Le Cellier.

Serves: 8

Ingredients: 

5 cups milk, warmed
½ pound bacon
10 tablespoons butter
1 cup celery
2 each red onions, finely chopped
1 ½ cups flour
1 quart chicken stock
1 pound cheddar cheese, shredded
To taste - kosher salt
To taste - freshly ground black pepper
1 ½ teaspoons Tabasco sauce
3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
12 ounces slightly warm ale 

Method of Preparation:

1.  Slowly heat milk.
2. Brown the bacon first, then render until crisp.
3. Add the butter and melt.
4. Add celery and onions, cook until translucent.
5. Add flour and mix thoroughly to form a roux.
6. Add chicken stock and simmer for three minutes.
7. Add warm milk and stir vigorously to thicken.
8. Cook out roux until thickened (it should not have a starchy taste).
9. Reduce heat to low, add cheese, and stir until melted.
10. Season with kosher salt, pepper, Tabasco, and Worcestershire sauce.
11. Just prior to serving, add warm ale.
12. Garnish with cooked bacon and fresh chives. 

Cook's note: When re-heating soup, do not bring to a boil, as it will break down.

Source: AllEars.net

Planet Hollywood Observatory is Finally Opened; Preview of Beauty & the Beast Coming to Disney Parks

Planet Hollywood Observatory is Finally Opened:

After weeks of speculation and delays, the Planet Hollywood Observatory officially opened today. The re-imagined restaurant transformed from its iconic globe into a 4-story stargazing observatory with new spaces including an outdoor terrace, a new menu with the help of Food Network's Guy Fieri, and an exciting new look and feel to the restaurant. 

Inside it’s an immersive theatrical dining experience, with each floor providing a different ambience, including the fabulous curated collection of film-making memorabilia and a 4,500-square-foot video wall the uses trompe l’oeil 3D technology – images with such realism that they appear to be in three dimensions.

Classic dishes remain on the menu but it is the new over the top burgers and sandwiches inspired by Fieri that highlight the new menu. Of course, we can't forget the hand-dipped milkshakes and generous sweets that highlight the dessert menu. Beer, wine and cocktails offer a little something for every taste, and Stargazers Lounge has a beverage menu that focuses on Florida craft beers (with 20 on tap) and 10 signature cocktails. The Stargazer Lounge has yet to open but will be soon.

Check out this quick video of Guy and a look inside the Planet Hollywood Observatory:



Source: Disney Parks Blog

Preview of 'Beauty and the Beast" Coming to Disney Parks:

Beginning February 10, guests visiting Disney Parks will get a special sneak peak into the live-action remake of Disney's animated classic, "Beauty and the Beast."

At Disney California Adventure park, the preview of “Beauty and the Beast” will be presented in 3D with special in-theater effects at the Sunset Showcase Theater in Hollywood Land, while guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will get to see this advance look at a segment from the film as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction. Each sneak peek location will also include a display featuring a collection of props and costume pieces actually used in the film’s production.

You can catch the 8-minute sneak peak of the film at Disney Parks beginning February 10 then experience the film as it waltz' into theaters March 17, 2017.

Special 2-Year Anniversary Note:

Today, marks the two year anniversary of It All Started With a Mouse and I just wanted to send a special thank you to you the readers. Never did I think two years ago, how I would continue to blog almost everyday. I also never thought I would be so involved in the Disney community which is amazing. Year 2 brought even more changes with the addition of me joining the podcast world.

The MouseLife family has helped me improve It All Started With a Mouse. Speaking of the MouseLife, I cannot wait to share with all of you what's coming very soon. Stay tuned. Thank you all so much don't forget that it was all started by a mouse and please continue living the MouseLife.

- John

Production Begins on Marvel's "Black Panther"; NFL Players Announced for Pro Bowl Parade

Production Begins on Marvel's Black Panther:

Exciting news from Marvel today in that they have begun production on "Black Panther." It will be directed by Ryan Coogler (Creed). Coogler co-wrote the screenplay with Joe Robert Cole (The People v O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story). "Black Panther" will be produced by Kevin Feige with Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Nate Moore, Jeffrey Chernov, and Stan Lee serving as executive producers. 

The film will bring back Chadwick Boseman returning as the Black Panther, Michael B. Jordan ("Creed"), Lupita N'yongo ("Star Wars: The Force Awakens"), Danai Gurira ("The Walking Dead"), Martin Freeman ("Hobbit" trilogy), Daniel Kaluuya ("Sicario"), Angela Bassett ("London Has Fallen"),  Forest Whitaker ("Rogue One: A Star Wars Story"), and Andy Serkis ("Avengers: Age of Ultron") just to name a few.

“Black Panther” follows T’Challa who, after the events of “Captain America: Civil War, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to take his place as King. However, when an old enemy reappears on the radar, T’Challa’s mettle as King and Black Panther is tested when he is drawn into a conflict that puts the entire fate of Wakanda and the world at risk."

Marvel's "Black Panther" slashes into theaters February 16, 2018.

Source: Marvel

NFL Players Announced for Pro Bowl Parade at Magic Kingdom:

Walt Disney World will host several NFL Pro Bowl players with a parade tomorrow, January 27 at the Magic Kingdom. Those players are Denver Broncos receivers Demariyus Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders, Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier, and Tennessee Titans tight end Delani Walker. 

They will join Mickey and his pals, NFL cheerleaders, and other special guests as they parade down Main Street, USA. The parade will start around 2:30 p.m. EST and all fans are welcome to attend with valid theme park admission. 

Come on out and see these NFL athletes, Disney characters and several community groups, including kids and families from Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors! 

The NFL Pro Bowl takes place this Sunday, January 29 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando when the NFC takes on the AFC airing on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 8 p.m. EST.

Paddlefish to Open February 4; Disneyland Debuts Private Dining Experience in Walt's Apartment

Paddlefish to Open February 4 at Disney Springs:

Paddlefish, formerly Fulton's Crab House, will open in Disney Springs next Saturday February 4, 2017. Reservations are not yet open. Here is the story of the restaurant:

Paddlefish is an iconic restaurant, bar and special events venue located aboard a reimagined, modern and luxurious steamboat. Docked on the shores of Lake Buena Vista, Paddlefish is the only restaurant in Disney Springs to offer rooftop-level, waterfront seating. We are proud to celebrate and share the fresh seafood catches of our nation’s robust and abundant waters. Our nets and rods are cast wide from the gulf to the east and west coasts to capture the tastiest seafood we can serve to our guests. Our adventurous and well-traveled vessel has influenced our menu selections, led by Executive Chef Mark Boor. At Paddlefish, we are passionate about authenticity, quality and providing our guests a unique dining experience. Our culinary “show” will engage your appetite and heighten your anticipation as we boil, steam, grill, and roast your meal.

Paddlefish will be open everyday from 11:30 A.M. to 11 P.M.

Disneyland Debuts Private Dining Experience in Walt's Apartment:

Introducing 21 Royal, a private dining experience inside Walt's Apartment, available to just one single party of 12 each night. Guests can book the experience for the price of $15,000 which includes tax, gratuity, valet, and admission to the park. Guests will begin the experience by being greeted by specially trained guides at Disneyland's Grand Californian and then leading them over to 21 Royal Street, the most exclusive address in the park which is what was originally to be envisioned as Walt Disney's apartment above New Orleans Square. 

Here are some details:

In keeping with its unique location, discreetly perched above Royal Street in New Orleans Square (upstairs from the famed Pirates of the Caribbean attraction), 21 Royal is decorated in the Empire style made popular in 19th century New Orleans.
Today, when you host your special evening at 21 Royal, you add your own chapter to the residence’s storied history and carry forth the spirit of Walt and Lillian’s enduring vision of an exceptionally enchanted experience.
On the evening of your 21 Royal experience, your guests will arrive at the majestic Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, where they will be greeted by the hotel’s valets. Once your entire party has assembled, they will be given a VIP escort to the site of the evening’s festivities.
Legendary Disney service is on display from the moment your guests are welcomed by the 21 Royal staff. First, signature cocktails are served by professional butlers in the salon, then everyone is invited out to the patio for a casual reception. You and your guests will also have time to explore the different rooms—and discover some of their more magical features.
Then it’s time for dinner. You and your guests take your seats around a lavish table covered in white linens, fresh flowers and set with gold-plated dinnerware and fine crystal. This is when the evening’s adventure really begins—as a fascinating tale unfolds told through fine food and drink.
In true Disney fashion, you can end your evening with a grand finale—dessert on the private balcony, where you and your guests are treated to a spectacular view of the Rivers of America, and on certain nights, prime viewing of the park’s nighttime entertainment.

For more details on this truly exclusive dining experience at 21 Royal visit, 21royaldisneyland.com.

9 Academy Award Nominations for Disney; Marvel Day at Sea Expands Aboard Disney Cruise Line

9 Academy Award Nominations for Disney:

"Zootopia" already took the Golden Globe, will it take the Oscar?

2016 was the Walt Disney Company's most successful year at the box office and it proved that today with 9 Academy Award Nominations leading the way were Walt Disney Animation's "Moana" and LucasFilm's "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" with 2 each. "Zootopia" along with "Moana" were both nominated for Best Animated Feature. Here is list of nominations:

• Best Documentary - "OJ - Made in America", ESPN
• Sound Mixing - "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story", LucasFilm
• Visual Effects - "Doctor Strange"- Marvel, "The Jungle Book" - Walt Disney Studios, and "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" - LucasFilm
• Original Song - "How Far I'll Go" - Disney's "Moana" Music & Lyric by Lin-Manuel Miranda
• Best Animated Feature - "Zootopia" - Walt Disney Animation and "Moana" - Walt Disney Animation
• Best Animated Short Film - "Piper" - Pixar

"Zootopia" just a few weeks ago already secured Best Animated Feature at the Golden Globes. The 89th Annual Academy Awards airs on February 26th on ABC hosted this year by Jimmy Kimmel. 

Marvel Day at Sea Expands Aboard Disney Cruise Line:

The Marvel Universe is expanding its way into 2018 aboard the Disney Cruise Line. The event aboard the Disney Magic. The events kick off with 7 special sailings in the Fall later this year from New York. In 2018 from January through April from Miami, guests will be able to enjoy one magical day with their favorite Marvel characters. Here are the details from the Disney Parks Blog:

We also unveiled new experiences in the lineup of immersive entertainment. The event features exclusive character interactions, including the debut of Black Panther and Loki as part of a Disney vacation experience. Marvel Day at Sea also marks the first official appearance of Iron Man on a Disney Cruise Line ship. 

In the Walt Disney Theatre, a spell-binding new show featuring Doctor Strange will keep families on the edge of their seats. Doctor Strange will showcase his journey from doubter to practitioner as he demonstrates the power of the mystic arts. The show concludes with an epic battle where guests must help Doctor Strange against the Dark Dimension. 

Occurring on one action-packed day during each of the special Disney Magic sailings, Marvel Day at Sea transports guests to a new realm of possibilities when the Marvel Universe assembles on the ship. The event features all-day entertainment including interactions with some of the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and the menacing foes who oppose them, an extraordinary deck party, Marvel-themed youth activities, special merchandise and unique food and beverage offerings. 

Also featured are exclusive at-sea screenings of fan-favorite films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe including the newest theatrical releases, as well as viewings of the Disney XD shows: Marvel’s Avengers Assemble, Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy.

The 2017 Marvel Day at Sea dates with sailings from New York are October 6, 14, and 28, November 4, 11, and 18. These sailings include a stop at Castaway Cay, the Bahamas, Port Canaveral, and a day Walt Disney World for 7 and 8-night sailings. There will also one more date on October 21 sailing from New York to Halifax, Charlottetown, and Sydney, Canada for a 7-night cruise. 

In 2018, Marvel Day at Sea will set sail from the port of Miami for 5-night cruises. These will take place on January 7 and 21, February 4 and 18, March 18, and April 1, 15, and 29. These sailings will take you to Castaway Cay and either Cozumel, Mexico or the Grand Cayman. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" is Official; List of NFL Pro Bowl Activities at Walt Disney World

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" is the Official Title for Episode VIII:

We have waited months to hear the official title for Episode VIII of the Star Wars Saga. Today, it was finally revealed. Episode VIII of the saga will be called, "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." The film is due out this December. Here is the poster that was released with the announcement:

Here is the official announcement from LucasFilm and StarWars.com:

We have the greatest fans in this or any other galaxy. In appreciation of the fans, we wanted them to be the first to know the title of the next chapter in the Skywalker saga: STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI.

THE LAST JEDI is written and directed by Rian Johnson and produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Ram Bergman and executive produced by J.J. Abrams, Jason McGatlin, and Tom Karnowski. 

STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI is scheduled for release December 15, 2017.

List of NFL Pro Bowl Activities at Walt Disney World:

This weekend for the first time ever the NFL Pro Bowl is coming to Orlando. Beginning this Wednesday and leading up to Sunday's game there are tons of activities at Walt Disney World for fans to enjoy. Here is what fans can expect:

Wednesday, January 25th

2017 Pro Bowl Experience – ESPN Wide World of Sports – FREE – 10am to 6pm

• Disney Food Trucks – Enjoy selections from Disney’s theme parks and best restaurants in a “taste of the town” tailgate.
• EA SPORTS – Check out the EA SPORTS Madden NFL experience and get in the game with Madden NFL 17 and the free-to-play Madden NFL Mobile.
• Family Tailgate Photo Opp Presented by Ford Trucks – Snap a photo with your friends in front of an NFL tailgate set up
• Family Football Zone – An interactive area for kids and families to play together. Play catch in the field or take part in a range of football and tailgate-themed games.
• Long Snap Accuracy Challenge Presented by Verizon– Test your aim by long snapping footballs through a variety of obstacles.
• NFL Pro Bowl Trophy – Take a photo with the official NFL Pro Bowl Trophy.
• NFL Shop at Pro Bowl – Stop by for official NFL Pro Bowl merchandise and shop for your favorite NFL team gear at the NFL Shop trailer.
• Panini – Panini America, the exclusive physical trading card partner of the NFL, will give fans the opportunity to interact with their Panini Gridiron digital trading card app and make their own digital
  trading card. Fans can win packs of Panini NFL trading cards and get the Panini NFL Sticker Album.
• Run-A-Route – Test your wide receiver skills and run a see-and-react route to catch a pass down field.
• Touchdown Celebration GIF Booth presented by Aquafina – Immortalize your best touchdown celebration as a free, digital GIF.
• Wilson – Put yourself into the game with the Wilson X Connected Football, the world’s first smart football, get your very own Wx rating and find out how you stack up against your friends!

NFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 17) – FREE – 11:30am

AFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 16) – FREE – 11:45am

Special Olympics Flag Football Game – ESPN Wide World of Sports – 2pm to 3pm

USA 2017 Women’s World Football Games practice

• Practice #1 – 10:30am to 12:30pm
• Practice #2 – 3:45pm to 5:45pm

Pro Bowl Skills Showdown – ESPN Wide World of Sports – SOLD OUT – 12:30pm

Thursday, January 26th

2017 Pro Bowl Experience – ESPN Wide World of Sports – FREE – 10am to 6pm

AFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 17) – FREE – 9:45am

NFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 17) – FREE – 11:20am

USA 2017 Women’s World Football Games practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 29)

• Practice #3 – 10:45am to 12:30pm
• Practice #4 – 4:30pm to 6:30pm

NFL Play 60 Clinic – ESPN Wide World of Sports – 11:30am to 2pm

Organizations and schools taking part in the clinics include:

• Lake Asbury Elementary School
• Lakemont Elementary School
• City of Sanford: Westside Community Center

EA Sports: The Madden Bowl – ESPN Wide World of Sports – 3pm to 10pm

The Madden Bowl, the second EA Major Series event of the $1 Million Madden NFL 17 Championship Series, will bring together the top 16 players from across the country to compete during Pro Bowl Week.

Mike and Mike Show, ESPN Radio – Disney Springs – 6am to 10am

NFL Radio – Disney Springs – 3pm to 4pm

 Friday, January 27th

2017 Pro Bowl Experience – ESPN Wide World of Sports – FREE – 10am to 7pm

NFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 17) – FREE – 9:45am

AFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 17) – FREE – 11:20am

USA 2017 Women’s World Football Games practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 29)

• Practice #5 – 10:45am to 12:30pm

USA 2017 Women’s World Football Games – ESPN Wide World of Sprots (Field 29)

• Game #1 – 5pm to 8pm

EA Sports: The Madden Bowl – ESPN Wide World of Sports – 3pm to 10pm

Mike and Mike Show, ESPN Radio – Disney Springs – 6am to 10am

NFL Radio – Disney Springs – 3pm to 4pm

NFL Flag Championships – ESPN Wide World of Sports – 10am to 7:30pm

Sixty-four teams from across the country – eight regional champions in four divisions plus 32 at-large teams – will compete and each will represent a different NFL club. Divisions include 9-10 coed, 11-12 coed, 13-14 boys and 13-14 girls. NFL Pro Bowl players and Legends will serve as guest coaches, encouraging the teams as they compete for the national title. The 13-14 Boys Championship Game will be aired on ESPN on Sunday, Jan. 29 as part of the network’s broadcast of the Pro Bowl at Camping World Stadium.

Pro Bowl Parade – Magic Kingdom – 2:30pm

The four Pro Bowl team captains will be joined by Mickey and his pals, as well as kids and families from Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), in the celebratory parade down Main Street U.S.A.

Pro Bowl 5k Packet Pickup – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Champion Stadium) – 10am to 2pm

Saturday, January 28th

2017 Pro Bowl Experience – ESPN Wide World of Sports – FREE – 10am to 7pm

AFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 17) – FREE – 9:45am

NFC team practice – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 16) – FREE – 10:00am

USA 2017 Women’s World Football Games – ESPN Wide World of Sports (Field 29)

• Game #2 – 12pm to 2:30pm (Field 17)
• Game #3 – 3:30pm to 6pm

EA Sports: The Madden Bowl – ESPN Wide World of Sports – 5pm to 10pm

Disney Springs Pro Bowl Bash – Disney Springs – 4pm to 7pm

Dancing, live radio broadcasts, NFL cheerleaders and team mascots await at the Disney Springs Pro Bowl Bash! Fans will receive giveaways and enjoy hours of free music from a Disney DJ. The Disney Springs Pro Bowl Bash will culminate with the Pro Bowl Dance Party.

Pro Bowl 5k Run – Epcot – 5am to 6:30am

North American Championship – ESPN Wide World of Sports – 5:30pm and 8:30pm

The North American Championship is a collaboration of the sport’s national governing bodies in each country, USA Football and Football Canada. The two U.S. National Teams encompass approximately 100 student-athletes spanning more than 20 states. The head coach of the U.S. Under-18 National Team is Matt Hennesy of Locust Grove (Okla.) High School. Kenny Sanchez of Las Vegas Bishop Gorman High School is the U.S. Under-19 National Team’s head coach.

Sunday, January 29th

2017 NFL Pro Bowl – Camping World Stadium – 8pm

 Source: Blog Mickey

Recipe of the Week: Pop't Art from Pop Eats at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts

The very first Epcot International Festival of the Arts began last week with many amazing food's debuting at the new festival. Last week, I shared one of my favorite snacks in the croissant donut. Today, I bring to you a recipe for one of the eight food studios at the event in Pop Eats. The recipe is for the Pop't Art sugar cookie. This sugar cookie is filled with a hazelnut filling and topped with an artful design of a glazed icing. Here is the recipe:

Pop’t Art

Makes 6

SUGAR COOKIE

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup butter
• 1 egg white
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

TOPPING

• 6 tablespoons chocolate-hazelnut spread

GLAZE

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Food coloring

FOR SUGAR COOKIE:

1. Cream sugar and butter in bowl of an electric mixer fitted with
   a paddle attachment until fluffy. Add egg white and beat for 1 minute.
2. Slowly add sifted flour and salt and beat at medium speed until a soft
   dough forms.
3. Cover bowl and chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or silicone
   baking mat.
5. Roll dough into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
6. Cut into six, 3×5-inch rectangles.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, until
   golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and cool for 30 minutes.

FOR TOPPING:

1. Spread 1 tablespoon of chocolate-hazelnut spread on each cookie,
   leaving a border of about 1/8 inch around the edges of each cookie.
2. Set aside.

FOR GLAZE:

1. Whisk powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of the milk, and the vanilla
   extract in a pie plate until smooth. Add additional milk if the glaze is
   too thick.
2. Set aside 2 tablespoons of glaze in a small bowl.
3. Dip each cookie, chocolate-hazelnut side down, in the glaze to cover
   the chocolate.
4. Set on a wire rack to dry.
5. Mix remaining glaze with desired color or colors of food coloring. Use a
   fork to drizzle colored glaze on top of the cookies.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Paint the Night Still a Possibility at Walt Disney World; Every Pixar Movie is Connected Pixar Reveals

Paint the Night Still a Possibility at Walt Disney World:

According to a rumor being reported by WDW News Today, Paint the Night is still a possibility of coming to Walt Disney World. With dropping attendance from over the summer Walt Disney Parks & Resorts is contemplating the Disneyland nighttime parade out to Walt Disney World to help bolster the exciting Summer 2017 already set.

With Pandora: The World of Avatar set to debut sometime this summer at Disney's Animal Kingdom and hopefully Rivers of Light the other 3 parks have nothing set to debut in 2017. However, rumors do persist that a new nighttime parade is in the works for late 2017 at the Magic Kingdom. 

A decision will be made in the coming weeks, despite the fight that is being put up by Disneyland executives to keep the parade there on the west coast. A decision depends on the success of the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade which debuted last night. The parade which ended in October at Walt Disney World is returning for a limited run until June. If it is extended maybe Paint the Night will be making its debut at Walt Disney World after all.

Source: WDW News Today

Every Pixar Film is Connected Pixar Reveals in Easter Egg Video:

Yesterday, Pixar revealed in a video through Oh My Disney that everyone of the their films is connected to each other in some way. It goes so much deeper than what we already knew. Check out all the Easter eggs and have your mind blown with this video:

New "Beauty and the Beast" Poster; Permits Filed for Disney's Caribbean Beach Expansion

New "Beauty and the Beast" Poster:

A brand new poster for "Beauty and the Beast" was released today featuring a triptych image packed with characters that we haven't seen before as well as some familiar ones. Yahoo had the details on the new poster which you can check out below:

Check out the larger image of here. Here is what we can see from the image:

"At the center of the poster are Belle (Emma Watson) and the Beast (Dan Stevens), dancing in the iconic title-song sequence. Instead of the ballroom from the actual scene, they appear to be in a dilapidated, crumbling tower. To the left is an image of Belle wandering through the snow, approaching the castle as wolves close in on her. On the far left are characters from Belle’s life in the village: Her father Maurice (Kevin Kline) at the top, her devious suitor Gaston (Luke Evans) at the bottom, and Gaston’s sidekick Le Fou (Josh Gad) in the center. 

At the bottom of the poster are the servants who have been transformed into castle objects — from left to right, Plumette the feather duster, Lumière the candelabra, Garderobe the wardrobe, Cogsworth the clock, Chip the teacup, the coat rack (whose name, if he has one, has not been announced), and Mrs. Potts the teapot. 

Finally, to the right is a scene from a ball; it seems to be taking place at the castle, in happier times. The towers in the background are bright and shimmering, not like the dark and foreboding image to the left. Among the dancers are the human versions of Lumière (Ewan McGregor) and Plumette (Gugu Mbatha-Raw). To the left, we see the human Cogsworth (Ian McKellen), and to the right, from the top, the human versions of Cadenza (Stanley Tucci, playing a musician-turned-grand-piano), Garderobe (Audra McDonald), and Mrs. Potts (Emma Thompson)."

 The live action remake of Disney's animated classic "Beauty and the Beast" waltzes into theaters March 17.

Permits Filed for Disney's Caribbean Beach Expansion:

Permits have been filed for an expansion of the Disney Vacation Club at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. The project is set to begin this year with a completion date sometime in 2019.

The details are that the permits show a large, multi-story building that will part of the Disney Vacation Club wing of the resort. Six new structures will be built replacing some of the existing Barbados Village. Finally, there is a series of roadway and waterway improvements that have been planned. 

Source: WDW News Today

Atlanta Braves to Leave Wide World of Sports for Spring Training; New Breakfast Options at Magic Kingdom

Atlanta Braves to Leave Spring Training Facility at Wide World of Sports:

For the last 20 years the Atlanta Braves have occupied the ESPN Wide World of Sports for Spring Training. According to a report by David O'Brien, a writer for Major League Baseball, saying the Braves will be relocating their spring training facilities to Sarasota in 2019. 

This would mean that 2018 would be the final year that the Braves appear at Champion Stadium located at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Walt Disney World. This was first reported by WDW News Today.

New Breakfast Options Coming to Magic Kingdom:

In the coming weeks, brand new breakfast options at the Magic Kingdom. At Casey's Corner bagels, muffins, and a croissant donut will be served as well as corn dog nuggets and the brand new hash brown hot dog (pictured above).

At the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, guests can enjoy Mickey waffles, Kelloggs Cereal, and donuts. That's not all as you can try the new donut sundae. A donut that is topped with your favorite flavor of hand-scooped Edy's ice cream, hot fudge, apple, whipped cream, peanut butter chips, chocolate chips, and a cherry on top. 

Finally at Sleepy Hollow, a new egg, ham, and tomato waffle sandwich will debut later this month. This will go along with the already amazing menu that includes the fruit and chocolate hazelnut waffle sandwich and the strawberries and whipped cream waffle sandwich. 

Will you be enjoying any of these new breakfast options at the Magic Kingdom? 

Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs Now Taking Reservations, Ready to Open

The Planet Hollywood Observatory in Disney Springs is finally set to open according to a report by the Orlando Sentinel. The Observatory will begin taking reservations for as early as January 22 which is next week. It will be re-opening after a year of renovation which saw the transformation from Planet Hollywood to the Planet Hollywood Observatory. 

Lunch will begin being served at 11 a.m. and the restaurant is taking dinner reservations all the way up until 10:45 p.m. We already know that the Food Network's own Guy Fieri is helping out with the menu. Last week, just some of the menu items for the Observatory were revealed with both new items being revealed as well as some old one's returning.

"Let’s start with indulgent, like the L.A. Lasagna, a fried take on the classic comfort food with Bolognese sauce, roasted garlic cream and tomato basil sauce. Or one of Fieri’s new Big Bite Burgers or Knuckle Sandwiches – the Bacon Mac-N-Cheese with his signature Donkey Sauce on a garlic-buttered brioche bun. You can have Lobster Feast Fra Diavolo with kicky spaghetti piled high in a whole lobster shell. A 10-ounce bone-in New York Strip Steak for two (add a whole steamed lobster if you please). And if you can’t decide, go for the High Roller Platter, a generous serving of guest favorites: Chicken Crunch, Texas Tostados, Buffalo Wings, Cheesy Spinach Dip and Peri-Peri Shrimp – perfect for the whole table to share." - Disney Parks Blog

 For a lighter option try the Citrus Kale salad with julienned broccoli, silvered brussels sprouts, cabbage, feta, grapefruit, oranges, cranberries, and sunflower seeds with a citrus-agave dressing. Or try the Spinach & Berries salad with candied walnuts, blue cheese crumbles, and a balsamic vinaigrette. The drink menu will focus on Florida craft beers and hand-crafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients. Have no fear the souvenir glasses will be coming back, including the Halley's Comet cocktail served in a 45-ounce Planet bowl.

We can't forget about those decadent milkshakes that are returning including two new flavors in the Chocolate Comet and the new Strawberry Borealis. The whole dessert menu is promised to take you out of this world which features a blind tasting of 12 flavors of house-made ice creams and sorbets, or finish the Planet Melt Down, a chocolate hardshell dome that will be melted table side with hot chocolate sauce to reveal double chocolate fudge cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream.

Visiting the Planet Hollywood Observatory is sure to be an out of this world dining experience. I know I am excited for the Bacon Mac N' Cheese Burger that I have actually had before at one of Guy's restaurants up here in Pennsylvania. It's delicious! Will you be visiting the new Planet Hollywood Observatory when it opens in Disney Springs?