Main Street Electrical Parade Extended in Disneyland; My Disney Experience Gets Major Updates

Main Street Electrical Paraded Extended in Disneyland:

Good news for guests at Disneyland as the Main Street Electrical Parade will not be glowing away in June.

The parade which was supposed to end in June in a limited run at Disneyland has been extended through the summer. The parade will now be glowing away on August 20, 2017. More details to come soon so stay tuned.

My Disney Experience App Sees Major Updates:

The My Disney Experience App has see some major changes in a new update to the app. Here are the details of the changes released today on the Disney Parks Blog:

To enhance your experience when visiting Walt Disney World Resort, we continue to innovate and use technology in new ways, which is why we are excited to launch a newly redesigned My Disney Experience app for all mobile users today! The enhanced My Disney Experience app features a look and feel to make planning and enjoying your Walt Disney World Resort vacation easier than ever. 

The new My Disney Experience mobile app opens right to the park maps to help you find attractions, restaurants, restrooms and more. It makes it easier for you to navigate through our parks so you can spend more time enjoying the magic of Walt Disney World Resort. A new section called “Spotlight” highlights new park experiences and entertainment offerings to help you find out the latest and greatest happenings at the parks. 

And when you stay at one of our Disney resorts, you will be able to use the new feature called “My Resort Dashboard,” which gives you access to your resort reservation details all in one place, including the ability to see room number, theme, building and floor once you have your room assignment. “My Resort Dashboard” even gives you directions to your resort using Disney transportation options, a map showing you the location of your room and a link to directly call the Resort Front Desk if you need further assistance during your stay. 

For guests who enjoy visiting our other Disney Parks around the world, the new My Disney Experience app now features the same look and feel as our other park apps, making the mobile experience seamless across the globe.

Here is a video they released highlighting the changes:



Source: Disney Parks Blog

Countdown to Pandora - First Look at the Na'vi Translator Device

Today, the Disney Parks Blog revealed their next item of merchandise guests will be able purchase when they visit Pandora - The World of Avatar. Guests will be able to purchase a Na'vi translator device to help them guide their way through Pandora. Merchandise Product Developer Cody Hampton gave the details on the device.

“This device was originally developed by Alpha Centauri Expeditions founder Marshall Lamm. The Na’vi have no written language, so the translator will be a helpful tool for any human visiting Pandora. Guests using the translator can learn how to pronounce 90 Na’vi words using interchangeable translation cards. The device also lights up at night, which makes it perfect for nighttime explorations on Pandora.”

The Na’vi Translator set will come packaged with 15 translation cards. The device has a clasp that extends up to 12-inches and can be attached to a belt or backpack. Additional translation cards will be sold in trading card packs, each containing eight randomly selected cards. There are some common cards such as Nouns (Blue) and Adjectives (Purple). Other cards will be less common to find in the trading packs including Animals (Orange), Phrases (Aqua), and Landscapes (Tan). The rarest cards are Plants (Green) and Gear (Yellow).

Cody added, "When selecting the words and phrases for this set, we thought about the most essential words a guest might use when exploring another country on Earth." Hampton's favorite word is 'Ikran' which mean Banshee in the Na'vi language. He partnered with Lightstorm Entertainment and Dr. Paul Frommer, creator of the Na'vi language for "Avatar," to acquire audio recordings of spoken Na'vi words for the translator. 

Pandora - The World of Avatar opens at Disney's Animal Kingdom on May 27. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Wreck-It Ralph 2 Gets Title, Plus Details on Cast

Ralph is going to break the internet, in the sequel to Disney's "Wreck-It Ralph." Last night, Oh My Disney revealed the title and some details for the cast. The title will be "Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2." Here is the little video that revealed the title:

Next year, he's gonna break it 👊. Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 opens in theatres on March 9, 2018. pic.twitter.com/EJw4SqCZV5

— Oh My Disney (@OhMyDisney) March 29, 2017

Now for the cast which already will be seeing John C. Reilly as Ralph and Sarah Silverman as Vanellope. Last night, it was revealed that Jane Lynch who was Sergeant Calhoun and Jack McBrayer  who voiced Fix-It Felix will also be returning for the film. The film will be directed by Rich Moore and Phil Johnston with Clark Spencer producing. They all have worked previously on "Wreck-It Ralph" and most recently worked on the Oscar-winning film in Disney's "Zootopia."

The basis of the film is of course Ralph escaping the arcade and traveling through the expansive universe of the internet, where he breaks it. Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 smashes into theaters March 9, 2018. 

New Security Checks at Resorts and TTC for Magic Kingdom; Water Parks Testing Virtual Queues

New Security Checks at Monorail Resorts and TTC for Magic Kingdom:

Beginning Monday April 3, guests entering the Magic Kingdom from the monorail resorts and the Transportation & Ticket Center will be pre-screened before getting to the park, Disney announced today. They will then be able to skip the security checks when they arrive at Magic Kingdom.

Guests arriving by bus or boat will still go through security but at new checkpoints that were installed in front of the park. This new security system will allow for less congestion at the entrance to the Magic Kingdom. Previously the congestion has caused much stress on guests because of how busy and long they could get. This was first reported by WDW News Today.

Walt Disney World Water Parks Testing Virtual Queues:

Today, both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach have begun testing virtual queues for guests. The test will run through April 7. The system allows guests to reserve a spot in line without actually standing in line. Walt Disney World already does this with Dumbo in the Magic Kingdom. 

The attractions this includes are Downhill Double Dipper, Slush Gusher, and Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach and the new Miss Adventure Falls at Typhoon Lagoon. This test comes ahead of Universal opening its new water park, Volcano Bay, which is supposed to use the same kind of virtual queue system. 

New Trailer for Spider-Man: Homecoming Released

This morning we got our next look at Marvel Studios "Spider-Man: Homecoming" being released. The film stars Tom Holland (Spider-Man), Robert Downey Jr., Michael Keaton, Marisa Tomei, and Donald Glover. Check out the new poster and trailer:

A young Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Tom Holland) , who made his sensational debut in Captain America: Civil War, begins to navigate his newfound identity as the web-slinging superhero in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Thrilled by his experience with the Avengers, Peter returns home, where he lives with his Aunt May (Marisa Tomei), under the watchful eye of his new mentor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), Peter tries to fall back into his normal daily routine - distracted by thoughts of proving himself to be more than just your freindly neighborhood Spider-Man - but when the Vulture (Michael Keaton) emerges as a new villain, everything that Peter holds most important will be threatened.

"Spider-Man: Homecoming" spins its web into theaters July 7, 2017.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Making Changes to Animal Hospital; Summer Discount Announced

Disney's Animal Kingdom Making Changes to Animal Hospital:

The Animal Hospital and Veterinary Treatment Room in Rafiki's Planet Watch is now closed for refurbishment until mid-June. Disney's Animal Kingdom has announced they are continuing their efforts to provide exceptional care for the animals by introducing new technology inside the animal hospital. 

Several enhancements will take place during the refurbishment, and after reopening, guests will have the ability to view procedures in which the hospital staff uses two new CT (computed tomography) scanners for animal diagnostics. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of only two animal hospitals in U.S. zoos with CT scanners on the premises.

While closed, the animals will continue to receive the best care, but they will receive that care in backstage treatment areas, such as the quarantine building. There will be no on-stage veterinary procedures during the refurbishment.

Source: The Laughing Place

Summer Room Discount at Walt Disney World Resorts Announced:

Guests visiting Walt Disney World can save up to 25% on their room with the new summer room only discount that was announced today. The discount is available on most nights from May 28 through August 31. 

Seeking a new and immersive adventure at Walt Disney World Resort? Be among the first to visit Pandora – The World of Avatar. This jaw-dropping new land is set to open on May 27, 2017 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. Experience its splendor-and the enchantment that lies within all 4 parks-when you create a vacation package by adding theme park tickets to this room offer.

Here is the run down of the discount at each Walt Disney World Resort:

Select Disney Deluxe Villa Resort Hotels - Save up to 25%:

Disney's BoardWalk Villas, Disney's Old Key West Resort, Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House, Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village, Disney’s Beach Club Villas, Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – Studios Only

Select Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels - Save up to 25%:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Select Disney Moderate Resort Hotels - Save up to 20%:

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Disney Port Oreans Resort – Riverside

Select Disney Value Resort Hotels - Save up to 20%:

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort - Family Suites Only,  Disney’s Pop Century Resort

This offer can be booked through July 14, 2017. The number of rooms allocated for the discount are limited. Length of stay requirements may apply and moderate and deluxe suites may be available at a lesser discount. 

Several Refurbishments Announced for Walt Disney World Attractions and Restaurants

Mission: Space is scheduled for a month long refurbishment in the beginning of June. The attraction in Epcot will close June 5th and remain closed until late July 2017. Rumor has it that a new mission will be ready for guests when the attraction re-opens to guests. Also rumored is that new monitors will replace the outlived old ones that desperately need to be replaced.

Portobello at Disney Springs is expected to close April 23, 2017 for a summer long refurbishment. The restaurant is expected to open sometime in Fall 2017. In collaboration, with award-winning chef Tony Mantuano, the restaurant is looking to update their menu to family style and provide an authentic Italian dining experience along with adding craft Italian wine and beers.

Also, at Disney's Animal Kingdom, the It's Tough to be a Bug attraction will close for a week in April for refurbishment from April 23 through April 29. 

Take a Tour of Pandora with Joe Rohde with D23 and AP Previews Book Up Quickly

On Friday May 19, D23 members have a chance of a lifetime by spending an afternoon touring Pandora: The World of Avatar before it opens with Joe Rohde, Portfolio Creative Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering. Rohde was the lead imagineer for Pandora: The World of Avatar and Disney's Animal Kingdom. Tickets for the even is $250/person plus a $5 processing fee. Tickets for the event will go on sale beginning Wednesday, April 5 at 10 a.m. PDT/ 1 p.m. EDT. Here is what guests can expect:

OVERVIEW:
Be among the first to explore Pandora – The World of Avatar not only before it opens to the public, but with Joe Rohde, Portfolio Creative Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering! In addition to a guided walk-through of the exotic new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park with Joe, attendees will enjoy lunch at Tiffins with Mr. Rohde and fellow D23 Members.

DETAILS:
Experience begins at 11:00 a.m. and will last approximately three hours. Check-in will begin in front of Tiffins restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Please do not arrive before 10:45 a.m.

Attendees are invited to return to Pandora – The World of Avatar to join an exploration window on their own from 3 – 5 p.m. the same day.

Available to Gold and Gold Family Members
You will be required to show a photo ID. Members will be required to show their D23 Membership Card.

Before Pandora – The World of Avatar opens May 27 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, D23 is thrilled to transport a limited number of members to the all-new land for a once-in-a-lifetime afternoon with Joe Rohde, Portfolio Creative Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering!

Guests will travel to Pandora – The World of Avatar with Joe to explore the Valley of Mo’ara, a verdant terrain sprawling beneath mountains that appear to float in the sky. Throughout the guided tour, guests will learn how the thriving Pandoran landscape conveys intrinsic park messages of the value of nature, transformation through adventure, conservation and stewardship.

In addition to the D23-exclusive tour, guests will join Joe for lunch at Tiffins—a restaurant that celebrates the adventures of traveling.

That afternoon, attendees are invited to return to Pandora to join an exploration window on their own from 3 – 5 p.m. During this time, guests will also have the opportunity to soar on the back of a mountain banshee during Avatar Flight of Passage, and venture deep into the bioluminescent rainforest during the Na’vi River Journey.*

This once-in-a-lifetime experience wouldn’t be complete without a custom gift, created exclusively for you.

*Event is subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather. As this is an early exploration of Pandora – The World of Avatar, please note that access to some areas of the Valley of Mo’ara on Pandora may be limited during your visit.

NOTE

• D23 Gold and Gold Family Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest.
• Due to the nature of this experience, all attendees must be at least 21 years of age or older to partake in this D23 event.
• This event does not include admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Guests will need to have or purchase admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to attend. If planning to use a Walt Disney World Annual Passport to attend, each guest should check blockout dates to verify that the pass is valid for admission on Friday, May 19.
• A very limited number of tickets are 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 AND D23 MEMBERSHIP CARD. D23 Members who do not bring their membership card 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. There are no cancellations or refunds, and tickets are not transferable.

Also today, Annual Passholder registration for previews of Pandora: The World of Avatar opened and booked up within hours of opening. The previews for Annual Passholders will take place between May 13 through May 22. Here are the details for their previews:

• All Guests must be Passholders in order to register for a time slot to preview Pandora – The World of Avatar.
• Guests may only register for one (1) time slot over the course of the preview period.
• If an Annual Passholder would like to register a Guest to accompany them, that Guest must also have a valid annual pass for admission to the event’s theme park location on the date of the event, be listed on your Family &
• Friends list and have opted to share “All My Plans” with you.
• Passholders with confirmed reservations will receive an additional email with details on how to check in for this experience, by May 12, 2017.
• All Guests must present their valid annual pass (or linked MagicBand), government issued ID and confirmation page to a Cast Member in order to enter Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park and Pandora – The World of Avatar on the date of your preview.
• Availability is subject to change without notice.
• Event is subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather.
• Guests must meet appropriate boarding and height requirements for the attractions.
• Capacity is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Due to limited capacity, modifications to existing reservations will not be available.
• Limit one reservation per Passholder. Reservations are nontransferable and void if sold or otherwise transferred.

Pandora: The World of Avatar will open to all guests at Disney's Animal Kingdom on May 27, 2017. 

Source: D23.com

FastPass+ Available for Pandora Tomorrow & More, Iger Extends Tenure, & More

FastPass+ Available for Pandora Tomorrow & More:

Tomorrow March 24, FastPass+ selections for both The Na'vi River Journey and Avatar: Flight of Passage will become available at 7 a.m. EST. Guests will be able to choose one of the two attractions for their first set of FastPasses. This is of course subject to availability.

 The big news however comes in the news that Pandora: The World of Avatar will have exclusive Extra Magic Hours for select Disney resort guests.

Guests at select Walt Disney World resorts visiting Pandora: The World of Avatar from when it debuts on May 27 through July 4 will get extra time to see the new world. Nightly Extra Magic Hours will be from 11 p.m. - 1 a.m. exclusively inside Pandora: The World of Avatar and not the whole park. Guests with an existing reservation at the select Walt Disney World resorts will receive notification of the Nightly Extra Magic Hours.

Bob Iger Extends Tenure as Disney CEO Through July 2019:

For weeks it has been rumored that Bob Iger would once again be extending his tenure as Walt Disney Company President and CEO. Today, that became a reality and for the third time in as many years Iger will now continue as CEO of the company through July 2, 2019.

As Iger continues the search for his replacement, it appears Iger will get to see his pride and joy inside Walt Disney Theme Parks with Star Wars Land opening in 2019. While no official opening dates have been announced for the biggest and most expansive lands opening in both Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World. One would think he is pushing Imagineers to have them ready to open before he leaves the position. Iger will have both Pandora: The World of Avatar and Star Wars Land for his legacy as CEO of the Walt Disney Company.

Leaving as CEO in July 2019 still leaves rumors abound that Iger still may be thinking of running for president in 2020. We will all just have to wait and see who will come out of the wood work to be the next CEO at the Walt Disney Company. If Iger ever leaves.

"The Music of Pixar Live!" to Debut at Disney's Hollywood Studios May 26:

Today, it was announced that a new show will be debuting this summer at Disney's Hollywood Studios. "The Music of Pixar Live!" will debut at the park on May 26. The limited-time concert will showcase the amazing music from our favorite Pixar films complete with a live orchestra and appearances from our favorite Pixar characters.

Starting May 26, “The Music of Pixar LIVE!” will be presented three times nightly at Theater of the Stars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (following the regular daily performances of “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage”). The show will also feature highlights from some of Pixar’s greatest scores, from films like “Toy Story” to “Cars 3.” Guests can also expect appearances by Woody, Jessie, Mike and Sulley, the Incredibles and more.

More details on the new concert show debuting this summer will be released soon so stay tuned.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New All in the Details Pandora: The World of Avatar, Passholder Previews to Begin Soon?

This morning, we got a new look at Pandora: The World of Avatar with a new All in the Details from Disney Imagineering. This episode showed us how they made Pandora as a real place. This was shared on the Disney Parks Blog:

In the film AVATAR, the planet of Pandora featured an ecosystem all its own, with lush bioluminescent flora, precious fauna, and a culture of people who saw and respected the value of their precious planet. In order to create this new land for Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the project team approached bringing Pandora to life as if they were building a real world – unlike one anyone had experienced before – based on the world in the film. 

Our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering just shared this video, in which we learn how Imagineers and Animal Programs worked together to create a uniquely interactive ecosystem exclusively for Pandora – The World of Avatar. The park’s Animal Programs department, which includes conservation biologists and scientists, lent their expertise in order to help the land seem as authentically real as possible.

Also according to a report by WDW News Today, Annual Passholder previews for Pandora: The World of Avatar will begin very soon at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Those first dates are just two weeks away as reports are saying online registration for previews on April 8th and 9th should open very soon. More preview dates are possible, but there is no word on when they will be.

Rumors are saying Disney will request a technology ban so no photos or video will be taken of the new land ahead of the opening. The previews would begin nearly a month and a half before Pandora: The World of Avatar even opens.

Stay tuned for more details and confirmation of Annual Passholder previews beginning. Pandora: The World of Avatar officially opens May 27, 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom. I'll be there June 9 to begin my adventure on Pandora.

Sources: Disney Parks Blog, WDW News Today

"Cars 3" Road to the Races Tour Kicks Off in Disney Springs Later This Month

Disney Pixar's "Cars 3" will begin a huge tour across the country later this month. The "Road to the Races" Tour will kick off later this month March 23-26, 2017 at the Disney Springs Marketplace. Fans of the film can get an early glimpse of the film's stars which include Lightning McQueen and newcomers Cruz Ramirez and Jackson Storm. 

Alamo Rent A Car will sponsor a giant color mural; Coppertone will encourage guests to take part in a racer pit crew tire-changing activity and a fun photo opportunity; Crest and Oral-B will pass out prizes from the Piston Cup prize wheel (I hope I win a new toothbrush!) and will offer fans the chance to create a digital postcard with Lightning McQueen; at the Dole Refueling Station, you can sample high-octane smoothies; Mattel plans to present an interactive play area; and last, but not least, NASCAR will be on hand to share the history and science behind their iconic brand.

There will also be new "Cars" merchandise, special menu items at select food & beverage locations, plus a DJ dance party with tracks that will make guests want to rev up their engines. The event at Disney Springs will be located in the former Marketplace Bus Loop area near Once Upon a Toy. It will be open to the public on Thursday, March 23 at 12:00 p.m. and will run until 7:00 p.m. that evening. On Friday, March 24, and Saturday, March 25, join the fun from 11 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. And on the final day, Sunday, March 26, guests can enjoy the experience from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

This will kick off a 27 city tour that includes visits to:

Walt Disney World, Miami, FL, Tampa, FL, Dallas, TX, San Antonio, TX, Houston, TX, St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL, Cleveland, OH, Pittsburgh, PA, Boston, MA, Allentown, PA, New York, NY, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, PA, Greensboro, NC, Charlotte, NC, Cincinnati, OH, Kansas City, MO, Denver, CO, Salt Lake City, UT, Phoenix, AZ, San Diego, CA, Disneyland, Los Angelas, CA, San Jose, CA, and Sonoma, CA.

For dates for each tour city visit here. Meanwhile "Cars 3" races into theaters June 16, 2017.

Movie Review: "Beauty and the Beast" is Magnificently Done, Still a Classic

After seeing "Beauty and the Beast" it brought me back to a place of my childhood a rebirth of Disney animation back in 1991. I was just a young toddler back then but seeing the re-make into the fine piece of a motion picture into a live-action film. I won't lie I may have shed a tear towards the end of the film. Bill Condon did a wonderful job directing and the cast was just amazing.

Many had doubts about Emma Watson portraying the role of Belle, but she held her own. I was simply amazed, how well she played the role. Her voice while not perfect was good enough for me to make me satisfied that they had picked her. The true star is Dan Stevens playing the Beast. I can listen to him sing "Evermore" all day long if I had too. I will be humming songs from this film not just the old songs but the new one's as well. 

Back to the cast Luke Evans as Gaston and Josh Gad as LeFou were perfectly cast for their roles. The controversy before the film came out was unnoticeable to the common eye. Josh Gad was perfect and I'm not sure anyone else fit for the role. Emma Thompson as Mrs.Potts while she is no Angela Lansbury who voiced the role in the animated classic, was amazing in singing "Days in the Sun" and even "Beauty and the Beast." I was quite surprised how beautiful of a voice she had. 

I can go on and on about the music from the film as I will be humming and singing the songs for the foreseeable future. Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice have all done it again and the addition of Josh Groban and Celine Dion have brought this music to a whole new level. 

I end with saying go see this film and its magnificent and will be a classic just as its animated predecessor was. Relive your childhood as well and you may even shed a tear too. 

First Look at Santu'li Canteen Menu Plus Mobile Ordering; Beauty and the Beast Dazzles at the Box Office

First Look at Santu'li Canteen Menu Plus Mobile Ordering:

Today, the Disney Parks Blog gave us our first look at the menu of the Santu'li Canteen that will open inside Pandora: The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. The Santu'li Canteen was once the main mess hall of the Resources Development Administration (RDA) but now is owned and operated by Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE). 

The interior of the restaurant has been transformed with colorful Na'vi items filling the walls and hanging from the ceiling. This includes hand-woven tapestries, natural Pandoran elements, and even cooking tools. 

Look for familiar dishes with a twist in the fast-casual restaurant, with bowls that allow diners to customize their lunch or dinner. Diners start with a base of quinoa and vegetable salad; red and sweet potato hash; mixed whole-grain and rice or romaine and kale salad. Next is either with wood-grilled chicken, slow-roasted beef, sustainable fish or chili-spiced fried tofu. And the bowl is finished with charred onion chimichurri, black bean vinaigrette or creamy herb dressing. 

The menu also offers steamed “pods” – bao buns with either cheeseburger or vegetable curry and served with root vegetable chips and crunchy vegetable slaw. 

For little ones, there’s an option of grilled chicken or beef, fish or tofu with greens or rice; a hot dog wrapped in Parker House dough; cheese quesadilla, or a steamed “pod” (cheeseburger bao bun).

Walt Disney World will also debut Mobile Ordering with Santu'li Canteen. Mobile Ordering will allow guests to order and pay for meals-on-the-go through the My Disney Experience app allowing guests to bypass the queue to order when they arrive at the restaurant. Guests will be able to customize their order, pre-pay, and upon arrival guests will tap the "I am here" button on the app to alert the kitchen to begin preparing the food.

Once the food is ready, guests will receive an alert through the app to to pick up their meal at a designated window. Right now Credit Cards are the only accepted form of payment for Mobile Ordering. More Walt Disney World restaurants will debut Mobile Ordering later this year.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

"Beauty and the Beast" Dazzles at the Box Office on Opening Weekend:

"Beauty and the Beast" dazzled at the box office in its opening taking in $174 million domestically and $357 million total worldwide. This was the largest March opening ever overtaking Batman v. Superman last year which took in $166 million in its opening last year. 

It also landed in the #6 spot on the all-time opening weekend chart that, placing it just above the opening of Marvel's Iron Man 3. This gives Disney 6 of the top 7 spots on the chart. After just one weekend, it is already number 2 on the top-grossing live-action musicals behind Grease. Although it is sure to take over the top spot after next weekend. 

Source: The Laughing Place

Is Quick Service Coming to Planet Hollywood?; New Disney Junior Dance Party Coming to DCA

Is Quick Service Coming to Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs?:

A quick service location for Planet Hollywood is reportedly in the works for Disney Springs. After reopening last month, as the Planet Hollywood Observatory, officials from Disney Springs have reportedly given the go ahead with an expansion.

Planet Hollywood founder Robert Earl said, "We've got the best location in the district right next to the movie theater and the car park. In confirming the quick service counter, Earl is hoping to boost figures after the relaunch of the restaurant. Along with adding the quick service counter, Earl is bringing celebrity guest appearances to the restaurant. Last night, at an event actress Reese Witherspoon was on hand and recently even Brittany Spears came by the restaurant.

The Planet Hollywood Observatory has a new menu with burgers inspired by Food Network star Guy Fieri as well as some old favorites from the old menu. Are you interested in a quick service option at Planet Hollywood?

New Disney Junior Dance Party Coming to Disney California Adventure:

A brand new Disney Junior dance party show is coming to Disney California Adventure this summer. The Disney Parks Blog announced details on the show yesterday.

This summer, there’s an all-new Disney Junior show coming to Disneyland Resort that you won’t want to miss. You and your little ones will love “Disney Junior Dance Party,” a high-energy, live show experience that takes its inspiration from the most popular Disney Junior shows on TV, including the new series “Mickey and the Roadster Racers,” as well as “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First” and “The Lion Guard.” The show is set to include live appearances from some of your favorite characters, fun music from Disney Junior and much more.

The new Disney Junior Dance Party will debut in Hollywood Land of Disney California Adventure on May 26, 2017.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Construction Progression of Star Wars Lands Revealed as AT-AT's Take Life

Today, the Disney Parks Blog gave us an inside look at the progression of the Star Wars Lands in both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. The two immersive lands will transport guests onto a never before seen planet with a remote trading port and one of the last stops before wild space where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life. You will find yourself right in the middle of the action. 

Two new attractions are being built for the lands: one where guests will get to take control of the Millennium Falcon on a customized secret mission and an epic Star Wars adventure that will take guests right into the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. 

Today's inside look shows off to the excitement of myself and many others the progression of two life-size AT-AT's bringing built inside the new lands. Check out the video below where the AT-AT's come to life:

As always stay tuned for new updates on Star Wars Land coming in the future. 2019 can't come soon enough.

Official Teaser Trailer for Pixar's "Coco" Released

The very first teaser trailer for Pixar's upcoming film for later this, "Coco" was released this morning. "Coco" tells the story of Miguel, a young boy who follows his love of his favorite musician and finds himself in the Land of the Dead. Check out the teaser below:

Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voice of newcomer Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel's family history. Directed by Lee Unkrich (“Toy Story 3”), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist “Monsters University”) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (“Toy Story 3”).

Disney•Pixar’s “Coco” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2017.

Pirates of the Caribbean Celebrating 50 Years; Tangled PhotoPass Experience Extended

Pirates of the Caribbean Celebrating 50 Years this Weekend:

This Saturday is the 50th Anniversary of one the most classic attractions in Pirates of the Caribbean. Beginning this Thursday however, guests will be able feast on special pirate-themed grub at French Market Restaurant, Mint Julep Bar, Harbour Galley, Royal Street Verandah, Cafe Orleans, and the Blue Bayou.

Then the party really sets sail Friday, March 17, and on the attraction’s official anniversary, March 18. Guests will find pirate-themed entertainment throughout New Orleans Square by the likes of Bootstrappers and Lucky the Pirate. They can also plunder limited-edition anniversary merchandise, available in New Orleans Square while supplies last. And ye landlubbers who wish ter talk like a pirate – aye, ye’ll getcher chance … with pirate speak collectible cards. And stay sharp, because there will be even more to discover!

Here is what you can expect at each place:

Blue Bayou (Beginning March 17th unless otherwise noted)

• 50th anniversary button
• March 16th-26th Only – Fruits De Mer – Pan seared snapper, sautéed shrimp, scallops, and a hush puppy served on a bed of spinach, with spicy shrimp sauce and remoulade – $44.00
• Gold doubloons presented with the check

Cafe Orleans (Beginning March 16th)

• Steak Sandwich – served open face with white cheddar cheese sauce, bacon jam, arugula, and cherry tomatoes, and sweet potato waffle cut fries – $21.00
• Lost Treasure Beignets – Shimmering lemon flavored beignets with vanilla anglaise and fruit couli – $9.00

French Market (Beginning March 16th)

• March 16th-July 16th Only – Buccaneer Pulled Pork Sandwich – Jerk-spiced pork, sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, pineapple Caribbean-style slaw and fried yucca – TBA
• Jolly Roger Punch – Spiced tropical juices with hints of pineapple, orange, and mango – $3.59
• Pirate Stein collectible mug – $12.99

Mint Julep Bar (Beginning March 16th)

• March 16th-19th Until 11am – Caribbean Breakfast Burrito (Also available in vegetarian form) – scrambled eggs, andouille sausage, rice, sweet potatoes, and black beans with sour cream – $8.49
• Lost Treasure Beignets – shimmering lemon beignets – 3 for $4.49, 6 for $7.49
• Jolly Roger Punch – Spiced tropical juices with hints of pineapple, orange, and mango – $3.59
• Pirate Stein collectible mug – $12.99

Royal Street Veranda (Beginning March 16th)

• March 16th-19th Until 11am – Caribbean Breakfast Burrito (Also available in vegetarian form) – scrambled eggs, andouille sausage, rice, sweet potatoes, and black beans with sour cream – $8.49
• Calypso Caribbean Chicken Stew – Caribbean spiced chicken stewed with onions carrots, celery, potatoes, and yucca – $10.99
• Jolly Roger Punch – Spiced tropical juices with hints of pineapple, orange, and mango – $3.59
• Pirate Stein collectible mug – $12.99

Harbour Galley (Beginning March 16th)

• Calypso Caribbean Chicken Stew – Caribbean spiced chicken stewed with onions carrots, celery, potatoes, and yucca – $10.99
• Jolly Roger Punch – Spiced tropical juices with hints of pineapple, orange, and mango – $3.59
• Pirate Stein collectible mug – $12.99

New Orleans Churro Cart (Beginning March 17th)

• Golden churro – Gold-dusted churro – $4.25

So "Yo Ho Yo Ho, its a Pirates Life for everyone."

Tangled PhotoPass Experience Extended Indefinitely:

The Tangled PhotoPass experience that allows guests to hold the famous luminary floating lanterns from the film has been extended indefinitely. The experience was originally supposed to end this Wednesday, March 15. 

It will be available now on a nightly basis weather permitting. 

March Magic is Back Beginning Tomorrow

It's March and that means the madness of March Magic is back. Yesterday, the Disney Parks Blog announced the tournament of attractions facing off against each other to see who will be the champion will return tomorrow March 14. Fans for the fourth year will be able to vote for their favorite attraction teams who will eventually be crowned the "March Magic" Champion. Voting will take place between March 14 and April 3 on both the Walt Disney World Facebook and Twitter pages. 

Here is the bracket for the Walt Disney World attractions:

Guests will find returning favorites such as the Future World Phoenicians as well as last year's champions the Hollywood Tower Hotel Bellhops. New teams this year such as the Electrical Water Pageant Sea Serpents, the SeaBase Alphas, and the Carousel of Progress Rovers. 

As always t-shirts of the teams will be made available on the DisneyStore.com beginning tomorrow, March 14 through April 4. For the first time ever, all teams t-shirts will be available throughout the tournament. 

To place an order for your t-shirts, visit DisneyStore.com/MarchMagic and allow 3-5 weeks for shipment. Tune in throughout the month of March to see the teams battle out and watch on April 3 as they crown the March Magic champion of 2017.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Minnie's Springtime Dine Returns March 20; New Poster for "Coco" Released Ahead of Teaser

Minnie's Springtime Dine Returns March 20 to Hollywood & Vine:

Minnie's Springtime Dine will be returning to Hollywood & Vine at Disney's Hollywood Studios beginning March 20. This is part of Minnie's seasonal dine at the restaurant that will run through June 4.

The menu consists of classic picnic food and drinks like a refreshing coconut-lavendar lemonade and springtime salads like watercress and a basil-lime fruit salad. Carving stations will also be available for guests. 

Reservations are now open and can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/DINE or by simply calling 407-WDW-DINE.

New Poster for Pixar's "Coco" Released Ahead of Teaser Trailer:

Next week we will get our first look at Pixar's "Coco" when the first teaser trailer is released. Today, we got a new poster for the film. The film will be released in theaters this November. The poster was first shared by director Lee Unkrich on Twitter. Check out the poster below:

Coco follows a 12-year old boy name Miguel who sets off a chain of events relating to a century-old mystery. The official story description is "Coco is the celebration of a lifetime, where the discovery of a generations-old mystery leads to a most extraordinary and surprising family reunion."

Pixar's "Coco" hits theaters November 22, 2017. 

New Experiences to Debut Aboard the Disney Fantasy in May

Today, Disney Cruise Line revealed that the new experiences that are coming aboard the Disney Fantasy in May. From Star Wars to Marvel to shopping at new onboard venues, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Check out what's to come aboard the ship:

Imaginative New Spaces for Kids:

In Disney’s Oceaneer Club, the new Star Wars: Command Post takes kids on a journey where they will train with heroes of the Star War saga and help with missions against the First Order. Here you will interact with holographic models at a one of-a-kind Star Wars holotable that projects 3-D images of the Millennium Falcon, Death Star and other famous Star Wars ships, meet members of the Resistance and learn to channel the Force.

In addition, at the all-new Marvel Super Hero Academy, kids will learn from real-life Super Heroes the heroic values of enlightenment, worthiness and loyalty. In this innovative space you can learn the ways of the mystic arts with Doctor Strange, who is making first-ever appearances onboard a Disney Cruise Line ship. Children will also interact with and open portals to different locales around the Marvel Universe, and immerse themselves in an exclusive gaming experience.

Tasty Treats to Delight the Entire Family:

Families can enjoy the new Sweet on You ice cream shop, themed after the iconic Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts, and designed with charming art details. Sweet on You will feature hand-crafted gelato and ice-cream, specialty sundaes, homemade chocolates, truffles and a large selection of candy for purchase, all just steps away from the family pool.

Luxury Shopping for Adults:

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will welcome the world’s premier jewelry and iconic American luxury brand, Tiffany & Co., with an exclusive store aboard the Disney Fantasy. Here you can indulge in timeless collections of jewelry and luxury accessories, including the effortlessly elegant Tiffany T collection and other glamorous pieces featuring renowned Tiffany & Co. diamonds.

These new experiences aboard the Disney Fantasy will be available to all guests with sailings beginning May 17, 2017. These sailings are from Port Canaveral.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

ABC Shows Show Off Sneak Peak to Pandora: The World of Avatar

This morning Good Morning America gave ABC's first sneak peak into Pandora: The World of Avatar. ABC's Paula Faris spoke with Joe Rohde and Avatar producer Jon Landau while walking through the land in our most in-depth look yet. 

In the segment we got a look at the bioluminescent plants at night, the floating mountains, a look at food that will be available to try, and our first look at what Avatar Flight of Passage will look like. Guests will slide on 3D glasses and be transformed into their own Avatar. While we didn't see any footage from the ride, it will be a simulation of you actually riding on the back of your own banshee. Here is the full clip of the segment:

WATCH: INSIDE LOOK: @VisitPandora the world of Avatar only at @WaltDisneyWorld! #VisitPandora @DisneyParks @OfficialAvatar pic.twitter.com/uFqamUfuLa

— Good Morning America (@GMA) March 9, 2017

As we said yesterday, this is just the first segment giving us an inside look at Pandora: The World of Avatar. Segments on ABC's "The View", "The Chew", and "Nightline" will be shown throughout the day on ABC.

UPDATE: Whoopi Goldberg Tours Na'vi River Journey with James Cameron on "The View":

During today's episode of ABC's "The View" live from Disney's Animal Kingdom, we got another inside look at Pandora: The World of Avatar. Whoopi Goldberg got a tour of the land with Oscar-winning director James Cameron as he showed off the floating mountains, the glowing bioluminescent plants, and finally we saw them ride the Na'vi River Journey. You will see that you will encounter a viper wolf and even hear the Na'vi Shaman singing on the ride.

Check out the clip below:

Floating mountains, glowing forests and more! @JimCameron gives @whoopigoldberg an exclusive look at @VisitPandora in @WaltDisneyWorld. pic.twitter.com/OLBuFw5sOf

— The View (@TheView) March 9, 2017

Pandora: The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom inches closer to its debut on May 27, 2017.