"Mary Poppins Returns" to Star Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda; "Finding Nemo" as Told by Emojis

"Mary Poppins Returns" to Star Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda:

The sequel to the Academy-Award winning film "Mary Poppins" has got a name and its stars to the film. "Mary Poppins Returns" will star Emily Blunt (Into the Woods) as Mary Poppins and Hamilton-star Lin-Manuel Miranda as a brand new character named, Jack. The film is scheduled to be released to theaters on Christmas Day 2018. 

"Mary Poppins Returns" will be directed by Rob Marshall (Into the Woods) with the screenplay being based on The Mary Poppins Stories by P.L. Travers. The film will be written by David Magee (Life of Pi). More on Miranda's character Jack, who is described as street lamplighter. 

The story is set to take place in Depression-era London and will follow a now grown-up Jane and Michael Banks and Michael's three children. Mary Poppins, their old nanny, will return to the family after a personal loss. Mary will return once again using her unique powers to help the family, "rediscover the joy and wonder missing in their lives."

Director Rob Marshall had this to say on the return of Mary Poppins and being selected to direct the sequel:

“I am truly humbled and honored to be asked by Disney to bring P.L. Travers’ further adventures to the screen. The iconic original film means so much to me personally, and I look forward to creating an original movie musical that can bring Mary Poppins, and her message that childlike wonder can be found in even the most challenging of times, to a whole new generation."

"Mary Poppins Returns" will hit theaters December 25, 2018.

"Finding Nemo" as Told by Emojis:

We've seen several Disney and Pixar films retold by emojis and "Finding Nemo" is no different with the release today of the story. With the upcoming release of "Finding Dory" on June 17 why can't we return to the origin in very fun way. Here is "Finding Nemo" as told by emojis:

Just in time for @findingdory, watch #FindingNemo as told by emojis:https://t.co/l738g3YCGd

— Oh My Disney (@OhMyDisney) May 31, 2016

"Cars 3" Will Bring New Characters to Radiator Springs; Possible 'Episode VIII' Title Leaked

"Cars 3" Will Bring New Characters to Radiator Springs:

Concept Art of Cars 3 from Pixar

We are more than a year away of the release of "Cars 3" but USA Today gave us our first look into the sequel to the story of Lightning McQueen. This includes the introduction of a new character named, Cruz Ramirez, who is being brought to help train McQueen (Owen Wilson will return to voice) in competing in the increasingly high-tech racing world.

Cruz Ramirez (role hasn't been casted yet) is a young Hispanic female yellow sleek race car brought in to, "teach an old dog new tricks," said "Cars 3" director Brian Fee. He added, "Think of where he'd be in his career now in real time. (McQueen) is not an old man, but he's one of the older cars on the circuit with new rookies coming in. People start to wonder and ask when he might retire."

'Cars 3' Concept Art Photo Courtesy: Nick Klocek, Pixar

One of those rookies will be Jackson Storm, an upstart new car on the scene who trounces McQueen in a race. The plot thickens in the film as McQueen is not ready to close the door on his career just yet and that is where Cruz Ramirez comes in. During the off-season Ramirez will prepare Lightning that he's got the goods to still race in the upcoming Florida 500 (equivalent to Nascar's Daytona 500). 

The film is in deep production with some story points still being solidified, animation however is already underway in some of the established scenes as seen in the concept art. Lightning McQueen will return to his original signature look and familiar characters will return in McQueen's best friend Tow Mater (Larry the Cable Guy), his girlfriend Sally Carrera (Bonnie Hunt), and auto-body show owner from Radiator Springs, Ramone (Cheech Martin). 

The story will stay in America and hit race tracks across America. Fee added, "This movie is a love letter to racing and the American way. We're inspired by the Americana you see traveling through the South where every small town has a dirt track."

"Cars 3" has a release date for theaters set for June 16, 2017.

Possible 'Episode VIII' Title Leaked: 

A Star Wars Celebration poster may have leaked the title of the upcoming film, "Star Wars Episode VIII" discovered by GamesRadar. The film which isn't due to be released until December of 2017 may now have a title. 

Star Wars Celebration may be where we hear the official title but until then all we can go on is the poster. The title in question is Star Wars: Fall of the Resistance which brings into question what the plot of the eighth film in the saga. Does the title mean the First Order will bring an end to the Resistance and the Rebellion that we have known for so long. 

Many are expecting 'Episode VIII' to have a much darker tone to the film than "The Force Awakens" much like "Empire Strikes Back" followed with after "A New Hope." Is the future of the Resistance in jeopardy, we don't know and we won't for a while. 

If this is the title we could probably expect to hear the official title when Star Wars Celebration London does occur July 15-17, 2016. Meanwhile, we do know "Star Wars Episode VIII" will hit theaters December 15, 2017. Oh yeah countdown to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story has officially hit 200 days.

Note: Happy Memorial Day and a special thank you to all our military men and women who have fought and died for our freedom. We wouldn't be free without the bravery of these heroes. 

Remaining Schedule for 100 Disney Channel Original Movies Marathon Released

Have you been feeling nostalgic all weekend watching your favorite Disney Channel Original Movies. Do you feel a little upset that some of your favorites haven't aired and were missing from the original schedule? Have no fear as Disney announced the remaining schedule of every movie that was missing will now air leading up to Disney Channel's 100th Original Movie on June 24, in Adventures in Babysitting. The remaining movies will air at midnight and 2 a.m. each day, here is the remaining schedule:

Tuesday, May 31
12 a.m. – Return to Halloweentown
2 a.m. – Can of Worms

Wednesday, June 1
12 a.m. – Going to the Mat
2 a.m. – Miracle in Lane 2

Thursday, June 2
12 a.m. – The Suite Life Movie
2 a.m. – A Ring of Endless Light

Friday, June 3
12 a.m. – Invisible Sister
2 a.m. – Now You See It

Saturday, June 4
12 a.m. – Girl vs. Monster
2 a.m. – Phantom of the Megaplex

Sunday, June 5
12 a.m. – Tru Confessions
2 a.m. – Tiger Cruise

Monday, June 6
12 a.m. – Mom’s Got a Date with a Vampire
2 a.m. – Under Wraps

Tuesday, June 7
12 a.m. – Den Brother
2 a.m. – Go Figure

Wednesday, June 8
12 a.m. – Avalon High
2 a.m. – Jett Jackson: The Movie

Thursday, June 9
12 a.m. – Minutemen
2 a.m. – Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Across the 2nd Dimension

Friday, June 10
12 a.m. – The Poof Point
2 a.m. – Up, Up and Away

Saturday, June 11
12 a.m. – Life is Ruff
2 a.m. – Hounded

Sunday, June 12
12 a.m. – Ready to Run
02 a.m. – The Jennie Project

Monday, June 13
12 a.m. – The Scream Team
2 a.m. – Don’t Look Under the Bed

Tuesday, June 14
12 a.m. – The Color of Friendship
2 a.m. – Buffalo Dreams

Wednesday, June 15
12 a.m – Good Luck Charlie, It’s Christmas!
2 a.m. – Hatching Pete

Thursday, June 16
12 a.m. – The Ultimate Christmas Present
2 a.m. – Twas the Night

Friday, June 17
12 a.m. – StarStruck
2 a.m. – Geek Charming

Saturday, June 18
12 a.m. – Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board
2 a.m. – Jumping Ship

Sunday, June 19
12 a.m. – Dadnapped
2 a.m. – Get A Clue

Monday, June 20
12 a.m. – Let It Shine
2 a.m. – Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure

Tuesday, June 21
12 a.m. – The Luck of the Irish
2 a.m. – You Lucky Dog

Wednesday, June 22
12 a.m. – Radio Rebel
2 a.m. – Frenemies

Thursday, June 23
12 a.m. – Gotta Kick It Up!
2 a.m. – Stepsister From Planet Weird

Friday, June 24
8 p.m. – Adventures in Babysitting 

Enjoy the rest of the weekend and enjoy all your favorite DCOMs leading up to the 100th in Adventures in Babysitting on June 24, 2016

Animal Kingdom Awakens Tonight with New Nighttime Experiences

Tonight Animal Kingdom will awaken as the new nighttime experiences will debut at the park. Most notably "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" and the new nighttime safari at Kilimanjaro Safari. That's not all as Tiffins Signature Restaurant and the adjoining Nomad Lounge opened earlier today at the park.

The new nighttime safaris at Kilimanjaro Safaris will begin tonight and the care of the animals behind the scenes as they will be out in the park later than they ever have been. "It has been three years in the making," Dr. Mark Penning said on the Disney Parks Blog. They created an environment like no other by enhancing and building the best possible animal habitats that offer choices for the animals, such as ranges in temperature, sound, and light levels.

Now that animals will be out later guests will be saying various animals throughout the day and night at Animal Kingdom. The experts will now provide check-ups to the animals on the savannah various times during both the day and night. 

That's not all guests have to look forward as new animals have been added to the safari just for the new nighttime experiences. These animals include painted dogs, hyenas, and more recently a brand new herd of wildebeests.  I can't wait to experience the safari at night when I get back to Disney World in September.

The biggest debut expected tonight, while its not Rivers of Light as expected, but "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" will debut tonight with two shows. The new Inside Disney Parks newscast gave us an extra sneak peak into the show before it debuts tonight. Check the extra episode for this week with this inside look at "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic."

The Disney Parks Blog will also be holding a special party this Sunday, May 29 for 100 special guests that filled quickly for a viewing of "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic." It was limited to the winners and one guest.

Guests who have won will check-in at the Will Call window at the park between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on Sunday. Winners must present Photo I.D. when checking in for the event.

If you are going to Animal Kingdom tonight, enjoy the amazing new nighttime experiences at the park. I can't wait to enjoy them myself.

First Two Clips from "Finding Dory" Released

The first two clips from "Finding Dory" have been released and boy are they full of excitement. "Finding Dory" is the sequel to Pixar's 2003 hit in "Finding Nemo." The film brings us the story of our favorite and forgetful blue tang fish, Dory, as she begins the search for answers about her past along with friends Nemo and Marlin. Most importantly the search for who her parents are. The film is directed by Andrew Stanton and produced by Lindsey Collins.

In the first clip, called "Totally Sick", brings a visit from our favorite group of turtles for some bro-tastic fun as they travel along the EAC (East Australian Current). In the clip Marlin appears to become sick along the windy trails of the current. Check it out:

The second clip is exclusive clip from Google as Disney has begun a search-driven initiative as anyone searching Finding Dory on Google will find exclusive content, clips, images, and Animated GIFs through the search engine. The first exclusive clip features Dory (Ellen DeGeneres) and Hank (Ed O'Neill). This is a first for any film as it will be updated in real-time on your desktop and on mobile devices. Check the second clip out:



"Finding Dory" hits theaters on June 17, 2016.

Behind the Scenes Look at "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic"; 'Speak Like a Whale Day at Disney Parks on June 11

Behind the Scenes Look at "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic":

"The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" premieres at Disney's Animal Kingdom in just a few days when it debuts this Saturday, May 28. Today, the Disney Parks Blog just gave us a behind the scenes look of the new nighttime show. 

"The show springs to life on the Discovery River, with dozens of performers filling five immense floating stages and spilling out into the audience with colorful production numbers that combine the most memorable story moments and songs from the film with an incredibly authentic Indian cultural influence."

Here is a video where the Creative Entertainment Team give us a look at how hard they have been working as "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" is set to debut.



"The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" is set to debut in just 3 days. Is anybody else as excited as I am for the new nighttime experiences at Animal Kingdom!

'Speak Like a Whale Day' at Disney Parks on June 11:

In honor of "Finding Dory" being released to theaters on June 17, Disney Parks will be celebrating one of Dory's favorite past times on June 11. Disney Parks will be celebrating 'Speak Like a Whale Day' on Saturday, June 11 with the help of her new friends, Bailey the beluga whale and Destiny the whale shark. Guests can learn how to speak whale while taking part in the fun. Here are the details:

• Guests at Disneyland Resort in California, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disney Cruise Line ships will receive a complimentary button to celebrate the day on June 11 (while supplies last).
• At the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, families can dive into “undersea” themed activities, including a live DJ, games and giveaways. Young guests can attend “Whale Speak University” and give speaking the language a try.
• At The Seas with Nemo & Friends in Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort, guests can learn about the real-life counterparts of the characters from the film and see them in their massive 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium home. Experts from Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Team will be on hand throughout the day to help guests find Dory and her friends and get a closer look at their world.
• Dory and some of her new friends from Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory” have joined Crush at the Turtle Talk with Crush attraction at Epcot and Disney California Adventure park. Guests can meet Destiny the whale shark, Bailey the beluga whale and Hank the “septopus.”

Here is the announcement from two of the films star in Ty Burrell and Kaitlin Olson as they practice their best whale voices:

Join in the fun at Disney Parks on June 11 and on June 17 when "Finding Dory" hits theaters nationwide.

Just Keep Swimming with New "Finding Dory" Trailer; DCL Returning to New York, California, and Texas Sailings in 2017

Just Keep Swimming with New "Finding Dory" Trailer:

Today, we were graced with what will most likely the final trailer for "Finding Dory" before it hits theaters in just 24 days on June 17. The trailer was released exclusively on The Ellen Show this morning. 

"Finding Dory" returns our favorite and forgetful blue tang fish, Dory, as she is on the search for her parents along with her friends Nemo and Marlin in the sequel to "Finding Nemo." Here is the trailer:

Disney Cruise Line Returning to New York, California, and Texas Sailings in 2017:

In Fall 2017, Disney Cruise Line will return to sailing from the states New York, California, and Texas. More specifically New York City, San Diego, and Galveston which are in addition to Port Canaveral and Miami. Here is what you can expect as seen on the Disney Parks Blog:

From New York City Aboard the Disney Magic to the Canada Coast and the Bahamas -

Cruises from New York City on the Disney Magic include a variety of Canada coast and Bahamas itineraries. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, is a new port of call on a seven-night Canada sailing – our longest-ever voyage to the Atlantic Canada coast. Bar Harbor, Maine, is another new port of call and part of a five-night sailing that will also stop at Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada.

Seven- and eight-night sailings to the Bahamas from New York all include a visit to Castaway Cay and to Port Canaveral, Fla., giving you the opportunity to visit Walt Disney World Resort. Each guest on these sailings will receive a one-day Walt Disney World Park Hopper ticket and round-trip transportation for the short drive between the ship and the resort.

From San Diego, California Aboard the Disney Wonder to Baja and the Mexican Riviera -

San Diego voyages on the Disney Wonder visit Baja and the Mexican Riviera. In Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico, you’ll enjoy world-famous beaches and snorkeling. Puerto Vallerta and Mazatlan are where cliff diving and ziplining through the jungle canopy take center stage.

From Galveston, Texas Aboard the Disney Wonder to the Caribbean and the Bahamas -

Following the season in San Diego, the Disney Wonder will sail from Galveston, Texas on seven-night cruises to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Western Caribbean itineraries visit Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Falmouth, Jamaica. All Bahamian itineraries include a stop at Castaway Cay, Key West and Nassau.

Guests can begin booking these sailings beginning on Thursday May 26, 2016. For more info on the itineraries visit disneycruise.com.

Pizza Planet Will be Re-themed to The Muppets, "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Released, and More

Pizza Planet Will be Re-Themed to The Muppets:

According to WDW News Today, it has been confirmed to them that when Pizza Planet re-opens later this year it will re-open as "Pizza Rizzo." Yes, that's right our favorite rat and his family from The Muppets will have the new theme of the quick service restaurant. 

The quick service pizza restaurant will have an entirely new theme and an entirely new menu with better quality food. It was confirmed through internal documents and permits filed in relation to the on-going refurbishment of the restaurant.

While the new theme has yet to be officially announce by Disney, it does make sense that Rizzo play a big part in the new theme. If you recall, Rizzo and his family had their own restaurant in the film, "Muppets Take Manhattan." There still remains no word on if Pizza Planet will return to Hollywood Studios. There has been much speculation that it would return to Toy Story Land when it eventually opens. There has been no details released on what kind of restaurants will be in the new land.

Stay tuned for when it is officially announced for more details on "Pizza Rizzo."

"Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Released:

This morning we got our first glimpse of the live-action retelling of "Beauty and the Beast" will be like when the trailer was released live on Good Morning America. While Belle is the only true character we see, (we hear Lumiere's and Cogsworth's voices), Beast's castle looks amazing at first glance. Check out the amazing first look of "Beauty and the Beast" below:

Here’s your first look at the live-action retelling of Beauty and the Beast🌹Coming to theatres 3.17.17. #BeOurGuesthttps://t.co/v4F6xaSxzr

— Beauty and the Beast (@beourguest) May 23, 2016

"Beauty and the Beast" hits theaters in just 10 months on March 17, 2017.

More Details on "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" Released:

We are just days away from the debut of "The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" at Disney's Animal Kingdom. The first nighttime show at the park is set to debut this Saturday, May 28. Today, the Disney Parks Blog shared even more details about the show that will run through the summer. Here is what we learned:

"In “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic,” the excitement and fun of Disney’s hit live-action adventure “The Jungle Book” roars to life with live music and performance, dazzling special effects and production numbers inspired by Indian cultural traditions. As night falls, we’ll gather on the shores of the Discovery River for a vibrant Indian celebration, as dozens of colorful performers take to the water and surround the audience in song and visual artistry.
In addition, massive curtains of water glow to life above the river’s surface, illuminated with imagery from the blockbuster film as Bagheera and other favorite characters from “The Jungle Book” take us on a journey through the jungle, following Mowgli’s exciting, perilous and sometimes hilarious wild encounters.
“We’re so thrilled at how much ‘The Jungle Book’ film has been embraced by audiences around the world,” said Michael Jung, Creative Director, Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Entertainment. “And we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate ‘The Jungle Book’ with this new live show. It’s going to be a perfect fit for Disney’s Animal Kingdom.”
“The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” features rousing, Indian-inspired arrangements of the movie’s popular songs “Trust in Me,” “The Bare Necessities” and “I Wan’na Be Like You,” all building to an uplifting, boisterous finale."

The Disney Parks Blog promised to share even more details on the new nighttime spectacular throughout the week leading up to its grand debut this weekend. So stay tuned.

Final "Finding Dory" Trailer to be Released Tomorrow:

The final trailer for Disney Pixar's "Finding Dory" will be released tomorrow live on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The film hits theaters in less than a month on June 17. The film which is the sequel to the hit film, "Finding Nemo," stars DeGeneres as Dory, Ed O'Neill, Ty Burell, and Diane Keaton among many others in the all-star cast.

They released a teaser for the trailer tomorrow, titled "Just Keep Swimming," in which the film's cast sing the famous words from the first film. Check it out below:

A new #FindingDory trailer is debuting TOMORROW on @TheEllenShow. #JustKeepSwimming ...we are almost there!https://t.co/jzTjdQzyun

— Finding Dory (@findingdory) May 23, 2016

"Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Out Tomorrow; Show & Seating Info for Jungle Book: Alive with Magic

"Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Out Tomorrow:

"Be Our Guest" tomorrow when we will get our first look at what the live action "Beauty and the Beast" trailer is released. The trailer will be released tomorrow morning live on Good Morning America. 

Today, Disney released a simple teaser for the trailer that will be released. The teaser simply says, "Be Our Guest" with a single red rose petal falling. Here is the teaser if you haven't seen it yet:

Tomorrow.https://t.co/eIbkwON1NZ

— Disney (@Disney) May 22, 2016

Who's excited for the "Beauty and the Beast" trailer?

Show & Seating Info for Jungle Book: Alive with Magic:

The "Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" will have two showings per night beginning next Saturday, May 28. The shows will be at 9:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. "Jungle Book: Alive with Magic" is 20 minutes long. 

For guests with FastPass+ reservations seating will be on the Asia side of the Discovery River theater.  Standby guests and dining package reservation guests will be seated on the Dino Land side of the theater. 

For guests with strollers, parking for strollers will be near the gibbon exhibit on the Asia side of the theater and parking will be in the Finding Nemo stroller parking area for the Dino Land side of the theater. 

Animal Kingdom will now close at 11:00 p.m. with the new nighttime experiences occurring at the park that will officially begin Friday. 

Menus Released for Tiffins Restaurant & Nomad Lounge Opening Next Week; Echo Lake Eats Opened Today

Menus Released for Tiffins Restaurant & Nomad Lounge Opening Next Week:

The new nighttime experiences at Animal Kingdom aren't the only things debuting next week. The new Tiffin's Restaurant and adjoining Nomad Lounge will open near Pizzafari and what will soon be the entrance to Pandora - The World of Avatar. Today, the Disney Parks Blog showed off the menus for both Tiffins and the Nomad Lounge take a look:

New Dining Packages will also be available beginning May 28 for both Tiffins and the Tusker House Restaurant and allow you reserved seating for the new limited nighttime engagement in Jungle Book: Alive with Magic. At the Tusker House the dining package will be available for the all-you-care-to-eat meals at breakfast, lunch, and dinner same day (you have to dine at least 2 1/2 hours before the show). At breakfast it will cost $37 for adults and $23 for ages 3 to 9, plus tax and gratuity. For lunch and dinner, it will cost $49 for adults and $30 for ages 3 to 9, plus tax and gratuity. Tusker House is on the Dining Plan and costs 1 meal credit.

At Tiffins, the package will include a choice of appetizer, entree, dessert, and non-alcoholic beverage for either lunch or dinner. The package here will cost $67 for adults and $32 for children ages 3 to 9, plus tax and gratuity. Tiffins will cost 2 dining plan credits on the Disney Dining Plan. 

Reservations open tomorrow, May 21,  for both Tiffins and the new Dining Packages. Reservations can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/DINE or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Echo Lake Eats Opened Today at Disney's Hollywood Studios:

Last week, it was announced that the new Echo Lake Eats would open around Echo Lake at Disney's Hollywood Studios with three new quick-service kiosks. Today, the three kiosks opened with some summertime eats. Here are the menu's for Bocados del Lago Nachos y Empanadas, Sliders to the Stars, and Hollywood Waffles of Fame:

Bocados del Lago Nachos y Empanadas

• Loaded Chili Cheese Nachos with Guacamole 
• Beef Empanadas, roasted corn and black bean salsa, Queso Fresco with cilantro sour cream
• Dulce de Leche Cookie

Sliders to the Stars

• Pulled Beef Brisket Sliders with arugula, pickled onions and horseradish aioli on sesame bun served with chips
• Pulled Barbecued Chicken Sliders with coleslaw and chipotle aioli on a brioche bun served with chips
• Mickey Brownie

Hollywood Waffles of Fame

• Shaved Turkey and Gouda Waffle Sandwich with mixed greens, bacon, tomato and herb-cheese pesto served with chips
• Shaved Ham and Cheddar Focaccia with water cress and spicy mustard served with chips
• Freshly-baked Chocolate Chip Cookie

Try these new amazing summertime eats for a limited time at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Animal Kingdom Nighttime Experiences Begin Next Week, Disney Announces Several Opening Dates for Awaken Summer

Animal Kingdom Nighttime Experiences Begin Next Week, Disney Announces Several Opening Dates for Awaken Summer:

Summer will officially awaken at Walt Disney World just one week from today when the new nighttime experiences begin at Animal Kingdom. Beginning May 27, the Tree of Life will awaken at night as the animal spirits come to life through magical fireflies that will tell the stories of wonder and enchantment along with other amazing sights at the tree. 

Then as the sun sets take a ride on Kilimanjaro Safari for the first time and see the nighttime behavior and sounds of the amazing wildlife like you never seen before. Then head over to the Harambe Village in Africa to enjoy the "Wildlife Parti" as the community of Discovery Island celebrates their love of the natural world in the Discovery Island Carnivale.

That's not all as the park will truly awaken on the Discovery River with the new nighttime spectacular as we wait for Rivers of Light to be completed in, Jungle Book: Alive with Magic. The show which is inspired by the hit live-action film will show memorable moments from the film, including the iconic Shere Khan (shown above), and will be filled with music and entertainment from the film infused with Indian influence. 

FastPass+ and dining package reservations for all the new nighttime experiences will be available beginning tomorrow, May 21. 

Now we already know that Soarin' Around the World will debut at Epcot on June 17. However guests will get to relive Soarin' Over California just one last time beginning next week on May 27. FastPass+ reservations for these last farewell flights will be available beginning tomorrow, May 21.

The farewell flights will last through June 16 before the new attraction opens the next day at  The Land in Epcot and on June 15 for the attraction over in Disney California Adventure. The new show of course will debut on June 17 the day after its world premiere when Shanghai Disneyland has its grand park opening on June 16.

The next big day for Disney World will be June 17 as several of their new attractions will be set open on that day. Let's head to the Magic Kingdom where its new stage show in "Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire" will debut.

“Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” brings to life beloved Disney stories both classic and contemporary in a spectacular performance featuring an original song, memorable music, lively dancing, delightful costumes and special effects magic. Mickey and his troupe of Merry Makers have invited friends from other lands to join them in a grand celebration. So in addition to favorites like Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Goofy, the show also brings together a wonderful cast of characters from some of Disney’s newest classics: “Frozen,” “Tangled” and “The Princess and the Frog.”

The new show will celebrate the unique stories of the citizens who make up this magical kingdom and the wonderful things that can happen when we try new things, see new places, and make new friends.

Head over to Hollywood Studios to enjoy the force of Star Wars as several new experiences have opened in the past year. On June 17, however head to the Studios at night to enjoy the new nighttime fireworks spectacular in "Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular."

The new nighttime fireworks spectacular will be the most elaborate in the parks history. It will combine fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects, and video projections that will turn the Chinese Theater and other buildings into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, StarKiller Base, and many other Star Wars destinations. That's not all as the nighttime sky is lit up with amazing fireworks, our favorite music from the films will be played throughout show. The show will be punctuated with a tower of fire and spotlight beams as they come together to form a giant lightsaber in the sky.

Last, but not least on June 21, head over to World Showcase at Epcot and visit the Norway pavilion as the new Frozen Ever After attraction and the adjacent Royal Sommerhus will open their doors. Frozen Ever After will take guests on a boat tour through the kingdom of Arendelle. 

First, guests will be transported to the "Summer Snow Day" Celebration where Queen Elsa will embrace her magical powers to create a beautiful 'winter-in-summer' day. They will then travel through Troll Valley on their way up to the North Mountain to visit Elsa's Ice Palace. The journey ends with the return trip to the Bay of Arendelle.  FastPass+ will be available for Frozen Ever After, once again beginning tomorrow May 21.

After traveling through Arendelle, guests can visit Queen Elsa and Princess Anna in their summer home, The Royal Sommerhus. It does not appear as the new meet & greet will be available for FastPass+. The Norway pavilion will open too guests along with Future World at 9 a.m. while World Showcase will open to guests 11 a.m.

The fun begins at Disney World next week as #AwakenSummer begins at Disney Parks. 

Wilderness Lodge Villas and New Development Get New Names; Several Summer Refurbishments Announced

Wilderness Lodge Villas and New Development Get New Names:

The Villas at Wilderness Lodge will be renamed the Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, Disney Vacation Club announced today. They also announced a name for the new development of the cabins and villas being built at the resort. 

The Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Wilderness Lodge will become the 14th Disney Vacation Club Resort. They also announced that a new name would be coming for the redesigned Hidden Springs Pool at the resort. 

No announcement has been made however on when these new cabins and villas will be open at Disney's Wilderness Lodge.

Several Summer Refurbishments Announced for Walt Disney World:

Several refurbishments were announced today for this summer at Disney World for some of our favorite attractions. This will include a lengthy refurbishment for DINOSAUR at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Here is what was announced today:

• DINOSAUR (Animal Kingdom) - July 25 through September 29
• Swiss Family Tree House (Magic Kingdom) - July 6 through September 24
• Liberty Square Riverboat (Magic Kingdom) - August 1 through August 7
• One Man's Dream (Hollywood Studios) - July 16 through July 19
• MuppetVision 3D! (Hollywood Studios) - August 15 through August 22

These attractions join a few other who are on the list for summer/fall refurbishment that includes Big Thunder Mountain which is expected to close August 8-November 18 and it's a small world which will be closed for nearly a month from August 22 through September 16. 

Weekend-Only Brunch at Trail's End, Is Sum of All Thrills Closing?, and More

Weekend-Only Brunch at Trail's End:

Trail's End at Disney's Fort Wilderness is about to become even more popular with Walt Disney World guests. According to WDW News Today, the restaurant will be introducing a weekend-only brunch beginning this weekend on May 21. The brunch will take place every Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. It will feature the usual breakfast buffet plus some additional items. Here is the menu:

Hot Foods -
Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, hash brown potatoes, Canadian Bacon Benedict, pasta (veg-pesto), mix vegetables, Fried chicken, baked mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy

Omelets to Order -
Diced ham, Andouille, bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, diced peppers, roasted mushrooms, pulled pork or brisket, chili, and salsa

Eggs to Order -
Over easy, medium, hard, Sunny side up, and poached

Mickey and Belgian Waffles with various warm toppings -
Blueberry compote, Bananas fosters, maple, praline sauce, and whipped cream

Dessert Island -
French Toast Bread Pudding, Assorted Pastries (4 different kinds), Red Velvet Cake, Cookies (2 different kinds), Apple Cobbler, and Corn Muffins

Fresh Fruit - 
Watermelon, Melon, Strawberries, and Citrus Wedges

Breakfast Cold Items (Served from 7:30 - 11 a.m.) -
Smoked Salmon, Slice Cheddar cheese, Sliced Salami, Sliced Ham, and Yogurt (Strawberry)

Items introduced at 11:00 a.m. -
Shrimp, Caesar Salad, Cole Slaw, Potato Salad, and Mix Green Salad (3 dressings available)

Soup Station - 
Chili and Grits

Adults will cost $23.00 and children will cost $13.00, all discounts will be accepted for this offering.

Is Sum of All Thrills Closing?:

According to a report by WDW Magic, Sum of All Thrills could be the next Innoventions attraction to close at Epcot. The Kuka Robot Arm which allows guests to create a simulated thrill ride no longer appears on the Epcot guide map. If you go on the attraction's website it say you can access the ride replays until June 30, 2016. 

The attraction is sponsored by Raytheon and is low capacity ride, only 2 guests can ride the attraction at a time. It has been quite popular since it opened in late 2009 in Innoventions East. All Innoventions exhibits have corporate sponsors key to their existence and are limited time agreements. If the agreement between Raytheon and Disney is up, this could be the reason for the rumored impending closure of Sum of All Thrills. 

Innoventions West closed in 2015 and only two attractions would remain in Innoventions East if Sum of All Thrills closes, Storm Struck and recently opened Colortopia. Disney has not made any announcements on the impending closure of Sum of All Thrills.

Disney Moves FastPass+ Booking Time:

Guests will no longer have to stay up to book their FastPass+ reservations when they reach their 60 day mark to their Disney World vacation. Instead of making their reservations beginning at midnight, guests will no make reservations beginning at 7:00 a.m. Eastern time. Off-site guests and annual passholders will still have to wait 30 days out to make their reservations.

"Frozen" Fun Returning to Disney Cruise Ships; Ride Testing Begins on Iron Man Experience

"Frozen" Fun Returning to Disney Cruise Ships:

"Frozen" Fun will be returning on select sailings on the Disney Magic on its sailings through Europe and the Disney Wonder on sailings to Alaska. The ships will be transformed into a winter wonderland as you are transported to the Kingdom of Arendelle.  Here is what the Disney Parks Blog said guests will experience aboard the ships for some "Frozen" fun this summer:

"On one special morning, you’ll awake to discover a magical freeze has overtaken the atrium lobby with sparkling icicles adorning the grand staircase, resembling the majestic mountain-top ice palace of Queen Elsa. Throughout the day there will be Scandinavian-inspired family activities, a themed dining experience with a menu of traditional Nordic fare and meet and greets with Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf.

This “cool” day of frozen fun culminates with an extravagant celebration, “Freezing the Night Away with Anna, Elsa and Friends.” This family-friendly interactive deck party features the famous royal sisters of Arendelle and their fun-loving Nordic companions. By now, the freeze has spread to the upper decks of the ship, with giant snowflakes, icicles and snow-covered rocks.

The celebration begins with a high-energy line dance, set to the movie’s ice cutting scene, featuring the arrival of Kristoff, impressively twirling his ice picks, and Princess Anna. Kristoff and Anna’s beloved companions, Sven, the trolls and Olaf, make virtual appearances at the party. Sven engages the crowd in reindeer games like “Sven Says” and the “Troll Stroll,” and Olaf leads a sing along to his signature song, “In Summer.”

Elsa arrives with a snowy gust of wind, calling on guests to sing “Let it Go” with her as she conjures up a wintry spectacle to cool things down for Olaf. In true Disney fashion, Elsa unleashes her magic, sending a chill through everyone as the powerful Academy Award-winning song echoes from the ship. The evening concludes with more family dancing on the pool deck. Then the fun continues just for adults in the dance club featuring performances and frozen specialty drinks."

They are encouraging guests to posts photos if you are sailing on any of these cruise sailings on Instagram and Twitter with the #DisneyCruise. Are you ready for the "Frozen" Fun to return to the Disney Magic and Wonder?

Ride Testing Begins on Iron Man Experience at Hong Kong Disneyland:

Ride testing has begun for the new Iron Man Experience attraction opening soon at Hong Kong Disneyland by an expert team of Walt Disney Imagineers. Once the ride opens it will be the first Marvel-based ride-through attraction inside a Disney Park. It will open in Stark Expo in the Tomorrowland section of Hong Kong Disneyland. The theme and story of the attraction goes like this:

The story begins when Tony Stark (aka Iron Man) decides to bring the Stark Expo to the park. Guests can visit the Expo and explore the latest and greatest innovations from Stark Industries. They’ll go aboard an Iron Wing vehicle, the latest flying transport invented by Stark Industries, and journey through Hong Kong streets and the iconic city harbor as they battle against the evil forces of Hydra alongside Iron Man.

Guests will also be able to meet Iron Man himself, tryout the interactive experience, "Become Iron Man," and purchase exclusive themed merchandise. 

Flying Fish Cafe Gets New Name and New Cocktail Lounge; Let's Celebrate - Sneak Peek of 45th Anniversary Merchandise

Flying Fish Cafe Gets New Name and New Cocktail Lounge:

When the Flying Fish Cafe at Disney's Boardwalk reopens late summer it will be operating under a brand new name in Flying Fish. The Cafe in the name is going away as the restaurant will welcome guests to sophisticated interior that will still pay homage to the golden era of seaside boardwalks. 

The interior of the restaurant will feature an all new kitchen and dining room that has expanded space for private dining events, and sparkling architectural accents (like golden-winged room panels and an impressive chandelier that mimics a school of fish overhead).

The Flying Fish will also neighbor a new cocktail lounge bar next door named, AbracadaBar. The story of the new cocktail lounge created by the Walt Disney Imagineering team:

The lounge was once a secret stomping ground for famous touring magicians, local boardwalk illusionists and the loveliest magician’s assistants of the day. After every magic show, these prestidigitators would gather at the bar, where they’d conjure up new cocktails, swap magic tips and tricks, and often stay up all night attempting to “out-charm” each other with their extraordinary illusions. According to BoardWalk lore, it was on just such an evening that every single magician in the lounge vanished into thin air, never seen again… And after sitting vacant for nearly 70 years, the secret magician’s lounge is now back in the spotlight.

 

"AbracadaBar guests will get a special peek into the sophisticated social club, and while it’s rumored that the magicians who frequented the lounge vanished without a trace decades ago, their magic still remains strongly intact, and can be seen, heard, and even savored in the bar’s signature cocktails," the Disney Parks Blog revealed. The AbracadaBar promises to be just as magical as its name suggests with its enchanted magic show posters, mystifying mirrors. vintage props, and tricks that were left behind all those years ago.

Opening dates and the new menus will be shared at a later date.

Let's Celebrate - Sneak Peak of Magic Kingdom's 45th Anniversary Merchandise:

The Magic Kingdom at Disney World will celebrate its 45th Anniversary in October. Today, Steven Miller gave us sneak peak of the merchandise that will become available to guests to celebrate the special occasion. In the new episode of Disney Parks Blog Unboxed we get to see just what to expect in new merchandise to be released:

The 45th Anniversary products will released this fall in select locations around the Walt Disney World Resort. Stay tuned as more information on the release of this amazing merchandise will be released very soon.