Slinky Dog Dash Ride Vehicle Arrives at Disney's Hollywood Studios

It's National Slinky Day and what better news to hear that the first Slinky Dog Dash ride vehicle has arrived at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Slinky Dog Dash will be one of two new attractions when Toy Story Land opens in Summer 2018. In Toy Story Land, guests will shrink to the size of a toy and explore the world of Andy’s backyard on two fun family attractions with Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers.

Slinky Dog Dash is a family coaster themed as if Andy built it in his backyard using his Mega Coaster Play Kit and some of his other favorite toys. The attraction’s ride vehicles, inspired by the character of Slinky in the film, will send riders dipping, dodging and dashing around turns and drops Andy has created to stretch Slinky’s coils to the max.

The second attraction, Alien Swirling Saucers, is designed as a toy play set that Andy got from Pizza Planet, inspired by the first “Toy Story” film. Aliens are flying around in their toy flying saucers and trying to capture your rocket toy vehicle using “The Claw.”

Here is a video of our favorite toys awaiting the arrival of the Slinky Dog Dash ride vehicle with a mission to reveal it.



Success!!! Toy Story Land opens Summer 2018 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Stay tuned in the coming months for even more details on Toy Story Land.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Walt Disney Company Pledging $1 Million for Hurricane Relief; New & Returning Acts for Food & Wine

Walt Disney Company Pledging $1 Million for Hurricane Harvey Relief:

We are all praying for the people of Houston through this horrible natural disaster. Today, the Walt Disney Company along with ABC television station KTRK-TV in Houston donated $1 million to the American Red Cross to help people who are affected by Hurricane Harvey.

Also, to benefit those impacted by the storm, Disney|ABC Television Group will be hosting a “Day of Giving” on August 31. A “Day of Giving” will begin on Thursday morning with ABC local affiliates and Good Morning America, and continue throughout the day on ABC, Freeform, Radio Disney. Across our social platforms, there will be a #DayofGiving call-to-action to donate to the American Red Cross, with those dollars going to benefit those most impacted.

“Our hearts go out to everyone in the devastating path of this historic storm. It’s hard to fully appreciate the impact, in part because it isn’t over yet. But we know thousands of people have lost everything and now face the daunting challenge of putting their lives and communities back together, and we’re using our unique resources and reach to help those in need," said Bob Iger, Chairman and chief executive officer of the Walt Disney Company.

Disney is also matching dollar for dollar any donation made by Disney Employees to the American Red Cross or any other qualified organizations involved in the relief effort through the Disney Employee Matching Gifts: A Program of The Walt Disney Company Foundation.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New & Returning Acts for Epcot International Food & Wine Festival:

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival returns this Thursday, August 31. There will authentic performers throughout World Showcase with some new acts and some returning favorites. Here they are:

Suroît – New to Epcot, this renowned band hails from Canada’s Magdalen Islands in eastern Quebec. For four decades, their infectious sound has embraced influences from Cajun, Celtic, bluegrass and rock music. Join Suroît on the Mill Stage at the Canada pavilion, August 31 – October 1.

Margret Almer & The Bavarian Band – World-famous yodeler Margret Almer makes an encore appearance at Epcot this fall. She’ll be performing with The Bavarian Band at the Germany pavilion, beginning August 31 and continuing through the holiday season.

Musique Aramenco – Another returning favorite takes the stage at the Morocco pavilion September 1 – December 30. Musique Aramenco presents a fusion of traditional and modern Moroccan music.

Bodh’aktan – Back by popular demand, Bodh’aktan mixes Quebecois, folk and polka to make fantastic rock and dance music. After rocking stages across Quebec, the United States and Europe, this incredibly popular, kilted band is returning for an Epcot encore at the Canada pavilion October 2 – 22.

Raffy – This musical quartet makes their Epcot debut October 23 – November 26 on the Mill Stage. Raffy’s infectious energy has been embraced across Canada through a live tour, appearances on television and radio airplay of their first hit single.

This year's 22nd Epcot International Food & Wine Festival runs August 31 through November 13, 2017. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Could Any of These be the New Names for Disney's Hollywood Studios?

More then two years ago before even the construction and demolition of most of Disney's Hollywood Studios began, it was hinted by CEO Bob Iger during the 2015 Walt Disney Company Shareholder's meeting that the park could get a new name in the future. Nothing has been said about the new name until yesterday. A survey has been found asking guests what names they liked from the list for a new name for the park. Here are snapshots from the survey:

As you can see all the names at least in my opinion are less than stellar, especially with names like Disney XL Park and Disney Kaleidoscope Park. Mickey Views who first reported the survey from an anonymous source said it seems the two leading candidates as there were questions about these 2 specific names in Disney Storyverse Park and one that seems to be in the lead of being considered in Disney Beyond Park. 

How valid is this survey? Well, the source that spoke to Mickey Views about the survey said they were part of a focus group earlier in the year to help name an unnamed Mickey attraction that of course was announced last month at the D23 Expo as Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway. 

Of course this is just a survey and there may even be more names under consideration (at least I hope there is). It does seem though that we are closer to a new name for the Studios and with Toy Story Land opening next Summer and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opening in 2019 it looks we will find out sooner rather than later. I still like the long rumored Disney's Hollywood Adventure better. 

Also, let it be known Disney's Hollywood Studios is on the list so there may be no name change at all. Although having Studios stay in the name doesn't make sense considering the park just no longer fits the Studios name. What do you think of these names? If you had a choice, which of these names would you choose?

Source: Mickey Views

Guardians of the Galaxy Mission: BREAKOUT! Getting Halloween Overlay; New "Thor: Ragnarak" International Poster

Guardians of the Galaxy Mission: BREAKOUT! Getting Halloween Overlay:

Guardians of the Galaxy Mission: BREAKOUT! will become Guardians of the Galaxy Monsters After Dark this Halloween at Disney California Adventure. Rocket needs your help to #SaveGroot. Here is what you can expect.

Your adventure picks up moments after the events of the popular Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! attraction. The Guardians have successfully escaped The Collector’s Fortress, but they have accidentally left Groot behind! Rocket enlists you to distract the creatures that have been released so he can find and rescue his little buddy. While The Collector’s ever-resourceful assistant, Apheta, may try to assure you that it is all just a momentary setback, we advise you to proceed with caution! 

Once the sun sets each evening during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will transform into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. Music continues to be at the heart of the experience, and an all-new song, “Monsters After Dark,” was created especially for this attraction by Tyler Bates, composer of the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films.

 You can help save Groot at Guardians of the Galaxy - Monsters After Dark this Halloween from September 15 through October 31.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New "Thor: Ragnarok" International Poster Released:

Today, on this THORsday we got a new "Thor: Ragnarok" international poster. Check it out:

"Thor: Ragnarok" hits theaters November 3, 2017. 

Star Wars Force Friday II at Disney Parks Plus Find the Force Experience

Star Wars Force Friday II is coming next Friday, September 1 in a worldwide event to celebrate new merchandise for "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." A special event is coming to Disney Parks at both Downtown Disney in Disneyland and Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. Here are the details for both events. 

Disneyland Resort – World of Disney Store, Downtown Disney District


Pre-registration for the Force Friday II event is required for guests attending the event in Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort.

Registration will be accepted only on DisneyParksMerchandise.com beginning August 24 at 11:00 a.m. (Pacific) / 2:00 p.m. (Eastern).

Once registered, guests will receive additional instructions via email. Doors open at 12:01 a.m. on September 1.

Walt Disney World Resort – World of Disney, Disney Springs


For guests attending the event at Disney Springs, registration for Force Friday II will take place outside the World of Disney store entrance across from Basin on August 31 beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Guests will be given a numbered wristband on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once a wristband is received, guests are invited to return to World of Disney by 11:30 p.m. where they will be lined up in sequential order. Doors open at 12:01 a.m. on September 1.

Please park in the Lime Parking Garage at Disney Springs for shopping convenience.

That's not all as if you aren't able to be in Disneyland or Walt Disney World, you will be able to Find the Force at retailers worldwide.

To celebrate Force Friday II, fans can reveal new and favorite characters from Star Wars: The Last Jedi in augmented reality, and help the Resistance find information about key personnel:

• Download the Star Wars app (for iPhone® and Android™) and launch the “Find The Force” feature.
• Starting September 1, look for Star Wars graphics with the “Find The Force” logo at participating retail locations and websites. Click here for full list.
• Scan these graphics using the “Find The Force” feature to reveal AR character experiences.
• A data chip will be unlocked each time a new AR character experience is revealed. Unlock digital rewards as you collect more data chips!
• Each graphic reveals a different AR character experience every day from September 1-3.

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" uses the force and flies into theaters on December 16, 2017.

Sources: Disney Parks Blog and StarWars.com

New Poster for "Olaf's Frozen Adventure"; Country Bears Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card

New Poster for "Olaf's Frozen Adventure" Revealed:

A new poster has arrived for "Olaf's Frozen Adventure" which will premiere ahead of Pixar's "Coco" this November. In the poster we see our favorite snowman Olaf sitting atop another favorite character in Sven.

“Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” will show us Olaf’s (and Sven’s) quest to find a new holiday tradition for Anna and Elsa, and all the adventures they experience along the way. The adventure begins in front of "Coco" on November 22.

Source: Oh My Disney

Country Bears Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card for Mickey's Not-So-Scary:

They year's Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party begins this Friday, August 25. As always guests will be able to receive a very special and limited edition Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card when they attend the party. This year's card is themed to the Country Bear Jamboree.

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is an in-park interactive experience that allows guests of all ages to join Merlin’s quest to stop Disney Villains from taking over Magic Kingdom Park. Guests use a map to search for villain hideouts throughout the park, and visit magic portals where they use spell cards to fight back against a villain’s plan. The journey begins at the Firehouse on Main Street, U.S.A., where you can pick up everything you need to play.

This special event card will be distributed separately (and in addition to) the regular Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card packs you’re given at this location. Guests must register to play with their party ticket and event wristband in order to get one.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Minnie Van Service Expands to Animal Kingdom Lodge; Cinderella's Royal Table Refurbishment

Minnie Van Service Expands to Animal Kingdom Lodge:

Beginning today guests staying at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge at both Kidani Village and Jambo House will now be able to utilize the Minnie Van service. Guests can activate the service by visiting the front desk at the resort.

The service began a few weeks ago after its announcement at the D23 Expo at Disney Yacht & Beach Club and Disney's Boardwalk. Last week, the service had successfully expanded for the first time at Disney's Wilderness Lodge.

Disney's Minnie Van service is a point-to-point transportation service that costs $20 per ride through the Lyft app. The service is expected to expanded throughout the Walt Disney World in the coming weeks and months. 

Source: WDW News Today

Cinderella's Royal Table Closing for Short Refurbishment in 2018:

Cinderella's Royal Table will close for a short refurbishment next year in 2018. The restaurant inside Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom will close between February 28 through March 2. The restaurant and reservations are open for March 3. 

Source: WDW News Today

Walt Disney World Making Changes for Solar Eclipse; Rivers of Light #DisneyParksLive Stream

Walt Disney World Making Changes for Solar Eclipse:

With the Solar Eclipse taking place tomorrow August 21, Walt Disney World is making changes throughout its parks and resorts. There is a projection of 80 to 90% coverage in the area of parks. Total darkness may occur between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Here is a list of what's been announced so far for changes during the day and afternoon:

• Marina at the Grand Floridian Resort will be closed all day on Monday and reopen on Tuesday.
• Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom will close at 2 pm and will stay closed for the entire day on Monday.
• Animal Trails at Animal Kingdom will close briefly prior to it getting dark and will reopen once the darkness period is over.
• Blizzard Beach will close as needed at the onset of darkness. Entertainment will be available at the beach area of the park and additional lighting will be added. Also, buses will be running directly to Typhoon Lagoon from 1:30 to 2:45 pm.
• Typhoon Lagoon already has nighttime lighting installed and will be utilizing during the darkness period. There should be no impact to guests of the park.
• Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre will be closed from 12 to 5 pm on Monday since Disney is shutting down all lake activities.
• Ferry Transportation sounds like it will be also stopped between 12 and 5 pm per Sammy Duvall’s announcement. No official word on this has been announced by Disney as of now.

Disney will not be providing any eclipse glasses to guests, so if you are visiting Walt Disney World tomorrow plan on bringing your own.

Source: Chip & Company

Rivers of Light to be Live Streamed Through #DisneyParksLIVE on August 22:

On Tuesday August 22, #DisneyParksLIVE will live stream Rivers of Light from Disney''s Animal Kingdom. Here are the details from the Disney Parks Blog:

In case you haven’t seen this amazing nighttime show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, “Rivers of Light” celebrates animals and nature by combining floating set pieces, lanterns, a soaring musical score, fountains and more. The show’s storytellers “narrate” this emotionally moving show through a combination of dance, music, song and shadow puppetry. 

Our live stream of “Rivers of Light” will begin Tuesday, August 22 at 8:40 p.m. EDT. A fresh blog post with the live video will appear at the top of the Disney Parks Blog Tuesday night right before the show. 

And as always, to follow along on Twitter, use the hashtags #DisneyParksLIVE.

Rivers of Light is quite the show, I saw it back in June and I look forward to watching the live stream on Tuesday night.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Obi-Wan Kenobi Film Finally in Development; Muppets Courtyard to Become Grand Park

Obi-Wan Kenobi Film Finally in Development:

It appears that Lucasfilm has finally let the cat out of the bag well at least unofficially. The Hollywood Reporter is reporting that Lucasfilm has begun talks with director Stephen Daldry (Billy Elliot, The Hours) to direct a standalone Obi-Wan Kenobi film (FINALLY!). 

Contract talks with the Oscar and Emmy-nominated director are in the early stages. A script has not been written for the film and with an impending deal with Daldry it appears he will be overseeing the development of the film along with Lucasfilm. No word on if Ewan McGregor, who played the young Jedi Master in Episodes I through III of the trilogy, will return for the film.

Sources stress however that no actor is attached the film since there is no script. Stay tuned as we finally may have the film we have all been waiting for.

Source: Hollywood Reporter

Muppets Courtyard Will be No More as its Set to Become Grand Park:

Muppets Courtyard didn't last very long at Disney's Hollywood Studios. After the area where Muppet-Vision 3D, PizzeRizzo, and Mama Melrose's was renamed last year it will get a new name when the Studios' new Grand Avenue area opens this Fall. The new area will be called Grand Park. Here is the details that was announced yesterday on the Disney Parks Blog:

Muppets Courtyard, along with a portion of the former Streets of America, is being re-imagined by Walt Disney Imagineering to become a new area called Grand Avenue. Inspired by the revitalization and the vibrant culture of present-day downtown Los Angeles, Grand Avenue is where vintage office buildings and warehouses are being converted to exciting new uses. Guests will soon see facades for “merchants” appearing in this area for a music shop, loft apartments, a tailor and more, with each window on the street featuring charming displays.
A highlight of Grand Avenue is sure to be BaseLine Tap House, which takes over a former F&B location. This new corner pub will feature California beers and wines along with a selection of small bites. (Read more on BaseLine Tap House in this post by Pam Brandon).
The current Muppets Courtyard will become Grand Park, an urban square off Grand Avenue surrounded by shops and restaurants like PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. Guests can already see changes in the area, with the Muppets theater being renamed “Grand Arts Theatre” and boasting a brand-new marquee. But, not to worry – Kermit, Miss Piggy and the gang continue to star in their hilarious and irreverent “Muppet*Vision 3D” show.

As always stay tuned for future updates on Grand Avenue and Grand Park as we await for the area to be reimagined. It does seem upsetting that Imagineers are pulling away from the theming of the Muppets but we will see just how this new area looks like when it opens this Fall.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Parks Moms Panel Search for 2018 Begins September 6

It's that time of year again as the Disney Parks Moms Panel will begin their search for the 2018 Panel on September 6. The first round of the search will run from September 6 through September 13. Here is what they are searching for:

Do you love Disney? Do you consider yourself a vacation planning pro? Do your family and friends come to you to help plan a magical Disney vacation? If so, you could be a great applicant for the Disney Parks Moms Panel.   

The Disney Parks Moms Panel consists of real parents who have mastered the art of planning a Disney vacation and help other Guests, online, by answering vacation planning questions using their own personal Disney experiences, helpful tips and heartfelt advice.  

Disney Parks Moms Panelists must also be comfortable communicating in written form to help Guests around the globe at DisneyParksMomsPanel.com. They must also be sticklers when it comes to grammar, spelling and punctuation.

For more information on how to apply and what to expect you can visit the Disney Parks Moms panel website here. For those who will apply good luck. Here is a video released announcing the search from Disney:



Sources: Disney Parks Moms Panel & Disney Parks Blog

Express Transportation to be Discontinued; Minnie Van Service Expands to Another Resort

Express Bus Transportation Service to be Discontinued:

Walt Disney World has decided to discontinue its Express Bus Transportation service. Its final day of service will be August 23, 2017. The final day to purchase the service will be this Wednesday, August 16 with the multi-day version of the service being available until August 23. 

The service introduced last December cost $15 and would utilize backstage areas of the parks to transport guests quicker than the normal service. No exact reason was given for the discontinuation but it appears as it just wasn't being used by guests enough to continue the service. 

Source: WDWMagic.com

Minnie Van Service Expands to Another Resort:

As one transportation service is being discontinued, another one is being expanded. The Minnie Van Service introduced last month at Disney's Boardwalk and Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts is already expanding.

Beginning today, guests staying at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Villas and Cabins, and the Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge can begin utilizing the service. Guests can go to the front desk area of the resort the service for their use. 

Minnie Vans is a point-to-point transportation service that costs $20 per ride and is summoned through the Lyft app. The service is expected to be expanded even more throughout Walt Disney World Resort in the coming months.

Source: WDW News Today

Farewell to The Great Movie Ride & Universe of Energy; Stitch Goes Back to Seasonal Operation

Farewell to The Great Movie Ride & Universe of Energy:

Today, we say farewell to two classic original attractions and since it was announced at D23 it hasn't gotten any easier in saying goodbye to them. Both The Great Movie Ride and Universe of Energy will close forever at end of operation tonight. Universe of Energy/Ellen's Energy Adventure will close as of 7:00 p.m. ET and The Great Movie Ride will close at 9:30. 

Both rides will make way for new attractions but the nostalgia of both attractions will live on forever. I will always remember riding The Great Movie Ride all throughout my childhood learning about the movies. I loved seeing the Mary Poppins scene and of course the classic ending scene from "The Wizard of Oz." It is a bit sad to see the last original opening attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios go away.

Now while I am going to miss The Great Movie Ride tremendously, I have a special place in my heart for Universe of Energy. I have always enjoyed this attraction both before and after the Ellen update. While many have enjoyed taking a nap in this attraction I have always thought this was one of the more interesting and learning experiences for an attraction. It's the original dinosaur ride. 

While Universe of Energy will see its own way into extinction after tonight, I am going to sorely miss hearing the "Stupid Judy" joke, seeing the beautiful creatures we call dinosaurs, and of course who could forget Bill Nye. This is one of those rides that I have so many memories on from when I was younger.

With that before the tears start flowing, I say farewell to the both of these amazing attractions. The memories from both will last a lifetime.

Stitch's Great Escape Going Back to Seasonal Operation:

Guests have one more week to see Stitch's Great Escape at the Magic Kingdom before it closes down probably until the holiday season. Stitch will have his final day of its Summer Operation schedule next Saturday, August 19. Beginning the next day on August 20 it will go back into season operation. It still remains clear what the fate of Stitch's Great Escape for now but rumors are still circling around the possibility of a new Wreck-It-Ralph attraction taking its place. 

One Man's Dream to Become Walt Disney Presents; Rumor: Changes Coming to All-Star Movies & Music Resorts

One Man's Dream to Become Walt Disney Presents:

Two years ago before all the changes coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios were announced, rumors swirled that One Man's Dream would be going away for good. Even recently, it was rumored that it would be demolished to make way for the new entrance into Toy Story Land. Today, the fate of tribute to Walt himself was revealed. 

The building will be reimagined into Walt Disney Presents and the film along with the many historical items from Walt's history such as sketches, storyboards, and photos will remain a part of the attraction. Also the film will be switched out from time to time to preview upcoming films. The meet & greet with Star-Lord and Baby Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy will also be staying. 

That's not all as Walt Disney Presents will also act as a preview center where guests explore what’s next for the park. Starting in mid-September, you’ll be able to view concept art, ride vehicle maquettes and a never-before-seen model for Toy Story Land. A portion of the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge model also will be on display, as well as concept art for the new Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction.

Are you excited about the new Walt Disney Presents Preview Center coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

RUMOR: Changes Coming to All-Star Movies and Music Resorts:

It wasn't that long ago that we were talking about all the rumors swirling around Walt Disney World before the D23 Expo. Now that the expo is over of course more rumors are surfacing as Walt Disney himself said, "Around here we don't look backwards for very long, we keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths."

With the recent remodel of rooms at Disney's Pop Century expected to be completed in the next year or so it seems that Pop won't be the only Disney resort seeing a remodel of of its rooms. A rumor has begun surfacing that the rooms at Disney's All Star Movies and All-Star Music will be seeing a similar reimagining of there rooms expected to be completed by 2019. 

That's not all as a rumored table service restaurant, likely a buffet style restaurant, is expected to be built in between the resorts. With the expected increased occupancy rates all the 3 All-Star Resorts in 2019 with Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opening. It is being felt that guests may want to skip the lines at the busy counter service to relax at this proposed family style buffet experience.

This is all a rumor as of now and this has not been pushed forward as of yet. However, if they expect to have this complete by 2019 one would think we may see building permits very soon.

Source: WDW News Today

Details on D23 Fanniversary of Epcot, Gary Sinise Not Returning for Mission: Space

Schedule Details on D23 Fanniversary of Epcot:

The sold out D23 Fanniversary which is celebrating Epcot's 35th Anniversary on October 1, 2017 announced some details for the even. A sort of schedule to help D23 Gold and Gold Family Members gather excitement for the event. Here is what they announced:

• 8:30–9:15 a.m.: Event Check-In (Epcot Main Entrance—Future World)—Please do not arrive prior to 8:30 a.m. or later than 9:15 a.m. After checking in, guests will be guided to the event location.
• 10–11 a.m.: Welcome to Epcot 35th Anniversary (Details to be provided closer to event)
• 11:10–11:50 a.m.: Epcot Attractions of Yesteryear—It’s always fun looking back at tomorrow. Join us as we take a nostalgic journey through some of your favorite memories of Epcot past!
• 12–12:45 p.m.: 35 Things You Didn’t Know About Epcot—Think you know everything there is to know about the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow? Think again! Our expert presenters will reveal some secrets and details that will surprise even the most passionate Epcot fans! During this time, guests will also enjoy a boxed lunch at their tables.
• 1–2 p.m.: Epcot Dreamers and Doers—For 35 years, Disney Cast Members and Imagineers have dreamed big and done the impossible. Join a discussion with Epcot dreamers and doers who have each played a role in shaping the world of tomorrow, from 1982 to today!
• 2–2:25 p.m.: Epcot Entertainment Through the Years—A showcase of music, dance, and the arts, Epcot has been host to memorable events and performances over the past 35 years. Discover the rich legacy of Epcot entertainment in this special presentation.
• 2:30–4 p.m.: Epcot 35th Merchandise Pick-Up & Pop-Up Shop (optional)—All attendees are eligible to participate in an Advance Purchase Merchandise opportunity and can pick up these advance purchases during this time, as well as visit a D23-exclusive pop-up shop that will feature exciting merchandise coming to Epcot for the 35th anniversary.

Of course guests attending the event will also receive a one-of-a-kind exclusive gift from the event. Are you excited if you are able to attend the D23 Fanniversary of Epcot?

Source: D23

Gary Sinise Not Returning for Mission: Space, Replaced by Gina Torres

As previously reported, Gary Sinise will not be returning as CAPCOM for when Mission: Space re-opens this weekend. Sinise has played the role since the attraction opened in 2003. Instead guests will be greeted by actress Gina Torres when guests are watching the pre-show videos.

Gina Torres has appeared in many television series, including Hercules: The Legendary Journeys (as Nebula), Xena: Warrior Princess (as Cleopatra), Firefly (as Zoe Washburne), 24 (as Julia Miliken), Suits (as Jessica Pearson), The Shield (as Sadie Kavanaugh), Westworld (as Lauren), and much more. She starred opposite Chris Rock in the feature film I Think I Love My Wife, as Carla in the independent film South of Pico, and she reprised her Firefly role in its feature film sequel Serenity. Since 2011, she has been known for her role on the USA Network series Suits as Jessica Pearson. She and real-life husband Laurence Fishburne played a married couple on the NBC television series Hannibal.

The new and improved version of Mission: Space opens this Sunday, August 13.

Source: WDW News Today

Disney Pulling Out of Netflix Deal, Launching Own Streaming Service

During today's earnings call, Disney President and CEO Bob Iger announced that Disney would be pulling its movies and ending its deal with Netflix and starting its own streaming subscription service.  The streaming service is expected to be launched in 2019. The deal with Netflix will end and Disney will pull its content at the start of the year in 2019. 

The new service will become the exclusive in-home service in the US for on-demand of the latest live-action and animated Disney and Pixar films. This announcement came on the heels of Disney acquiring majority ownership of BAMTech, which is a global leader in direct-to-consumer streaming technology and marketing services, for $1.58 billion. Disney, which previously owned a 33% stake in BAMTech, added an additional 42% today to become the majority owner. 

“The media landscape is increasingly defined by direct relationships between content creators and consumers, and our control of BAMTech’s full array of innovative technology will give us the power to forge those connections, along with the flexibility to quickly adapt to shifts in the market,” said Bob Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Disney. “This acquisition and the launch of our direct-to-consumer services mark an entirely new growth strategy for the company, one that takes advantage of the incredible opportunity that changing technology provides us to leverage the strength of our great brands.”

During the call, Iger said it was unclear whether any Marvel or Lucasfilm films would be part of the new streaming service. He also stated that it was possible that each (Marvel and Lucasfilm) would have their own separate streaming services. They also said that the new service would follow the launch in 2018 of ESPN's own streaming service. It will feature approximately 10,000 live regional national and international games and events per year, including content from NHL, MLB, MLS and more.

Special Experiences for Disney PhotoPass Day; Mobile Ordering Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios

Special Experiences Coming for Walt Disney World's PhotoPass Day:

Next week, Walt Disney World will be hosting its second annual Disney PhotoPass Day on August 19. During the event, guests will be offered an exclusive photo opportunities with rare characters plus they can also celebrate their favorite Disney princesses in honor of Disney's "Dream Big, Princess" campaign.

Here are the details for each park:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Character Experiences:

• Meeko joins Pocahontas at Character Landing on Discovery Island
• Timon joins Rafiki at Rafiki’s Planet Watch
• Princess Atta joins Flik at Discovery Island near Creature Comforts

Photo opportunities:

• Dream Big Princess photo backdrop before the park entrance (daylight hours only)
• Jungle Book Magic Shot near Yak & Yeti Restaurant
• Visit the PhotoPass photographer in DinoLand U.S.A. from 9-10 p.m. to have magical Mickey light effects added to your photo

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Character Experiences:

The Queen from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Maleficent, and Cruella de Vil will meet with guests at Sunset Showcase. This opportunity will be available from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Photo opportunities:

• Dream Big Princess photo backdrop outside the Theater of the Stars (daylight hours only)
• Poison Apple Magic Shot on Sunset Boulevard
• Fisheye lens in the Chinese Theatre Courtyard area

Epcot

Character Experiences:

• Genie will join Princess Jasmine in the Morocco Pavilion
• Mushu will join Mulan in the China Pavilion

Photo opportunities:

• Dream Big Princess photo backdrop near Epcot Character Spot (daylight hours only)
• Baymax Animated Magic Shot with the PhotoPass photographer located near Mouse Gear and the Fountain of Nations
• Fisheye lens near the fountain close to the entrance to Spaceship Earth

Magic Kingdom Park

Character Experiences:

• Dopey joins Snow White at Town Square Courtyard
• Captain Hook joins Peter Pan in Fantasyland

Photo opportunities:

• Dream Big Princess photo backdrop in Fantasyland (daylight hours only)
• Cinderella’s Coach in Fantasyland
• “Tangled” light painting photo opportunity near Ariel’s Grotto (available after dark)
• Mickey Mouse Magic Shot on the bridge near Fairytale Garden
• Main Street Vehicle near the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (available in the morning and early afternoon)

Disney Springs 

Photo opportunities:

• Dream Big Princess photo backdrop next to the Marketplace Stage
• Fairy Wings Magic Shot from the PhotoPass photographer roaming around the Marketplace near Tren-D (available from 1-10:30 p.m.)
• You can also visit the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs to enjoy special $99.95 plus shipping pricing on a Personalized Storybook now through August 20

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Mobile Ordering is Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios:

Mobile Ordering is expanding to three quick service restaurants at Disney's Hollywood Studios within the next week. It will begin with Backlot Express tomorrow August 8, ABC Commissary on August 14, and PizzeRizzo on August 15. 

The service has already successfully launched at Tomorrowland Terrace, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, Pinocchio Village Haus, and Columbia Harbour House at the Magic Kingdom. Electric Umbrella and Liberty Inn at Epcot. Flame Tree Barbecue, Pizzafari, Restaurtantosaurus, and Satuli Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs.

During the launch period however no discounts will be available through Mobile Ordering. Guests who have Annual Passholder, Tables in Wonderland, or any other discounts must go to the counter if they wish to use the discount.

Source: WDW News Today

Changes to Star Wars Tour and Fantasmic Dining Packages Coming Soon

There are some changes coming to the Star Wars Tour and Fantasmic! Dining Packages at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The first change is coming to the Star Wars Tour beginning October 1. The tour will now shift to the early morning and part of the afternoon instead of the afternoon into the evening.

The dessert party will no longer be part of the tour, but guests will still be able to have a reserved viewing of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. The price of the tour will now be reduced from $129 to $99 per person.

The reason for the removal of the dessert party could be because Star Wars Launch Bay is also expected to begin closing earlier beginning October 1 due to budget cuts.

The next change at Hollywood Studios won't begin until next year in 2018, but appetizers are being removed from the Fantasmic! Dining Packages at the Hollywood Brown Derby and Mama Melrose's.  No changes are coming to the Hollywood & Vine Dining Package. Here is what the 2018 dining package will include:

• One entrée, dessert and nonalcoholic beverage at select full-service restaurants or one buffet (where applicable)
• One voucher for guaranteed seating at Fantasmic! in a reserved area

New pricing for the dining package is $3 cheaper due to the removal of the appetizer at both Hollywood Brown Derby at Mama Melrose's. At Hollywood Brown Derby it will be $62 for adults and $22 for children (plus tax and gratuity) for lunch or dinner. At Mama Melrose's it will be $42 for adults and $18 for children (plus tax and gratuity) again for lunch or dinner.

New VR Experience Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire; "American Idol" Bus Tour at Disney Springs

New VR Experience Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire at Disney Springs and Downtown Disney:

The VOID is bringing an all new hyper-reality Star Wars experience later this year to both Disney Springs in Walt Disney World and Downtown Disney in Disneyland. The new experience will be called Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire. 

Beginning this holiday season, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire will transport you to a galaxy far, far away where you’ll be able to engage with friends, family and Star Wars characters through sight, sound, touch, smell, and motion. It’ll even allow environmental effects to be felt using Haptic feedback – melding the physical and digital worlds together. So, you don’t just see the Star Wars universe, you’re part of it at Disney Parks.

More details on this new experience on both coasts will be released in the coming months, so stay tuned for them and more right here on It All Started With a Mouse.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

"American Idol" Bus Tour Auditions Coming to Disney Springs:

"American Idol" will make its comeback in 2018 on ABC but first the hit show will have some of its auditions at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. Auditions will kick off in Disney Springs with the "American Idol" Bus Tour. Here are the details from the Disney Parks Blog:

If you think you could be the next “American Idol”, head over to Disney Springs on August 17 to audition with “American Idol” Producers. (Celebrity Judges will not be on site.) Early arrival is encouraged. And, for you early birds, parking will be available as early as 4 a.m. – but not before. Registration will begin at 6 a.m. with auditions starting at 8 a.m. Early arrival is encouraged, as registration will close at 12:00 p.m or sooner due to capacity. No overnight camping please.
The auditions will take place outdoors, so make sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay in top shape for your audition. Parking will be available at the surface parking lot on the West Side of Disney Springs, near House of Blues and Cirque du Soleil.
All singers must be at least 15 years old to audition. Pre-Registration is encouraged. To Pre-Register and for additional details, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, and terms and conditions, visit www.americanidol.com. Those auditioning can bring one guest to accompany them and the guest must be over 5 years old.

The search is on, will you become the next American Idol?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Slinky Dog Dash Track Complete; "Ant-Man and The Wasp" Now in Production

Slinky Dog Dash Track Complete in Toy Story Land:

Walt Disney Imagineers revealed this morning that the Slinky Dog Dash track for the family roller coaster is now officially complete and installed. Toy Story Land where the coaster is in will officially open in Summer 2018. 

In Toy Story Land, guests will shrink to the size of a toy and explore the world of Andy’s backyard. Fitting with the theme, Slinky Dog Dash will appear to be a coaster track that Andy has built all over his backyard using his Mega Coaster Play Kit – as well as some of his other favorite toys.

Here is a video of Imagineers talking about work being complete on the track of Slinky Dog Dash:



Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios opens Summer 2018. As always stay tuned for updates.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Marvel's "Ant-Man and The Wasp" Now in Production:

Today, Marvel Studios announced that its film "Ant-Man and The Wasp" was now officially in production. The film is due out in theaters in the United States on July 6, 2018. Check out the video below showing the film is now in production:



Starring Paul Rudd (“Captain America: Civil War,”  “The Fundamentals of Caring”), Evangeline Lilly (“The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies,” “Lost”),  Michael Peña (“The Martian,” “Fury”) and Academy Award® winner Michael Douglas (“Behind the Candelabra,” “Wall Street”),  who all return to the roles they originated in the original “Ant-Man.”  Bobby Cannavale (“Vinyl,” “Chef”), Judy Greer (“War for the Planet of the Apes,” “Wilson”), Abby Ryder Fortson (“Togetherness,” “Transparent”), Tip “T.I.” Harris (“Sleepless,” “Get Hard”) and David Dastmalchian (“Twin Peaks,” “The Belko Experiment”) are also reprise their supporting roles.

From the Marvel Cinematic Universe comes a new chapter featuring heroes with the astonishing ability to shrink: “Ant-Man and The Wasp.”  In the aftermath of “Captain America:  Civil War,” Scott Lang (Rudd) grapples with the consequences of his choices as both a Super Hero and a father.  As he struggles to rebalance his home life with his responsibilities as Ant-Man, he’s confronted by Hope van Dyne (Lilly) and Dr. Hank Pym (Douglas) with an urgent new mission. Scott must once again put on the suit and learn to fight alongside The Wasp as the team works together to uncover secrets from their past.