Minnie Van Service Officially Begins at Walt Disney World

The Minnie Van service officially began today at Walt Disney World at select resorts. It is now available at both Disney's Boardwalk and Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts.

Through a collaboration with the US’ fastest growing rideshare service, Lyft, guests at these resorts can arrange their own private Disney vehicle right from the Lyft app on their smartphone. With Minnie Van service, Disney cast members will then whisk you away to wherever you want to be at Walt Disney World Resort. This service accommodates up to six guests and provides two versatile car seats so even the tiniest of passengers can travel in style!
Minnie Van service will be available between 6:30 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. (subject to change). Guests staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts can learn more by visiting their Bell Services desk.

The service costs $20 per trip and will eventually expand throughout the Walt Disney World Parks & Resorts.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

The Jawas Are Leaving Hollywood Studios; Great Movie Ride "That's a Wrap!" Merchandise

The Jawas Are Leaving Disney's Hollywood Studios:

Yesterday, appears to have been the final day guests were able to greet and trade with the Jawas at Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney's Hollywood Studios according to Kenny the Pirate. This doesn't mean they are going away forever just that for now they are being retired from meet & greets as well as trading with them. 

Rumor has it that Rey will begin meeting with guests along with BB-8 at Star Wars Launch Bay. Rey recently began appearing along with other favorite Star Wars characters in the stage show, Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away. Rey has yet to appear for any kind of meet & greet at the park. 

While the Jawas are going, one could only hope they will return when Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opens in 2019.

Source: Kenny the Pirate

Great Movie Ride "That's a Wrap!" Merchandise to Hit Disney Parks & Online:

During Friday's, Disney Park Blog Meetup with their farewell to The Great Movie Ride, it was revealed that Disney would be releasing special Farewell merchandise. The Great Movie Ride is slated to close for good on August 13, 2017 where it will be replaced by Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway. 

The "That's a Wrap!" merchandise will be available late this week in Walt Disney World. Some of the items will be released on Disney Store online on August 10, 2017.

D23 & TCM to Celebrate The Great Movie Ride; Muppet Vision 3-D Closes Unexpectedly

D23 & TCM to Celebrate The Great Movie Ride:

We are all in a somber mood as soon one of the original rides at Disney's Hollywood Studios when The Great Movie Ride closes for good on August 13. On August 12, D23 and TCM will be celebrating The Great Movie Ride to give us one final goodbye to the classic attraction here are the details:

OVERVIEW

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and TCM Backlot: The Ultimate Turner Classic Movies Fan Club are joining together to invite members of both fan clubs to celebrate the farewell of The Great Movie Ride!

DETAILS
Experience begins promptly at 7:15 a.m. at the entrance of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Check-in will begin at 7 a.m. Please do not arrive before 7 a.m. Due to the nature of this unique experience, late arrivals will not be accommodated.

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.

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and TCM Backlot: The Ultimate Turner Classic Movies Fan Club are joining together to invite members of both fan clubs to celebrate the farewell of The Great Movie Ride!

Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the star-studded cinema attraction one last time during a behind-the-scenes experience before Disney’s Hollywood Studios opens to the public on Saturday, August 12.

This complimentary event will include a private attraction experience with special guests, a delicious breakfast at The Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant and a one-of-a-kind gift created just for attendees!

NOTE
D23 Gold and Gold Family Members may register 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 experience.
This experience does not require admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests will need to have or purchase admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios if planning to return to the theme park once the experience concludes.
Food allergy and restrictions must be communicated to our Guest Services team prior to the event.
There is a limited number of reservations 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.

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Filming, photography, and other recording will take place at Walt Disney World Resort during the event you will be attending. By entering the premises, you irrevocably consent to and authorize The Walt Disney Company, its affiliates, successors, and assigns (collectively “Producer”), to photograph you, make sound recordings of you, and use such photographs and recordings throughout the world, for any purpose whatsoever in perpetuity, including, but not limited to, television broadcasts and home entertainment products, including, but not limited to, home video and DVD. All such photographs and sound recordings will be the sole property of Producer.

The experience is complimentary, registration for the event will open Tuesday, August 1 at 10 a.m. PT for D23 Gold and Gold Family Members. 

Source: D23

Muppet Vision 3D Closes Unexpectedly for Short Refurbishment:

Today, Muppet Vision 3D closed unexpectedly for a very short refurbishment. The ride will be closed from today through August 2. Disney didn't give any reason for why it was closed down. 

Source: WDW News Today

Legendary Disney Imagineer & Walt's Right Hand Man Marty Sklar Passes Away

What can be said about Marty Sklar that probably hasn't already been said. While I have never met him, listening to him as he would talk about Disney he just wasn't a man who worked at Disney he was a fan just like us. Marty Sklar passed away unexpectedly late last night at the age of 83. It is hard to imagine Disney at all without Marty, he will be truly missed. As a friend said we as fans talk about "what Walt would have wanted," but Marty was one of the only few who actually knew what Walt wanted.

Here is what Thomas Smith wrote last night from the Disney Parks Blog which includes quotes from the likes of CEO Bob Iger, Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek, and fellow Disney Imagineer Bob Weis.

Legendary Disney Imagineer Martin A. “Marty” Sklar passed away in his Hollywood Hills home on Thursday. He was 83. During an illustrious career spanning 54 years, Marty worked closely with Walt Disney and was instrumental in creating, enhancing and expanding Disney’s creative vision. Named a Disney Legend in 2001, he is best remembered and revered by fans around the world for his work bringing Disney’s theme parks to life.“Everything about Marty was legendary – his achievements, his spirit, his career,” said Bob Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “He embodied the very best of Disney, from his bold originality to his joyful optimism and relentless drive for excellence. He was also a powerful connection to Walt himself. No one was more passionate about Disney than Marty and we’ll miss his enthusiasm, his grace, and his indomitable spirit.”Born in New Brunswick, N.J., on February 6, 1934, Marty was a student at UCLA and editor of its Daily Bruin newspaper when he was recruited to create The Disneyland News for Walt’s new theme park in 1955. After graduating in 1956, he joined Disney full-time, and would go on to serve as Walt’s right-hand man—scripting speeches, marketing materials, and a film showcasing Walt’s vision for Walt Disney World and Epcot. During this period, he also joined WED Enterprises, the forerunner of Walt Disney Imagineering, and he would later become the creative leader of Imagineering, leading the development of Disney theme parks and attractions for the next three decades. He retired as Executive Vice President and Imagineering Ambassador on July 17, 2009, Disneyland’s 54th birthday. Disney marked the occasion by paying tribute to Marty with the highest Parks and Resorts recognition, dedicating a window in his name on Disneyland’s City Hall. “Marty was the ultimate Disney Imagineer and Cast Member. From his days working as an intern with Walt to just two weeks ago engaging with fans at D23 Expo, Marty left an indelible mark on Disney Parks around the globe and on all of the guests who make memories every day with us,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “He was one of the few people that was fortunate to attend the opening of every single Disney park in the world, from Anaheim in 1955 to Shanghai just last year. We will dearly miss Marty’s passion, skill and imaginative spark that inspired generations of Cast, Crew and Imagineers.”Bob Weis was one of those Imagineers. “Marty was one of Walt’s most trusted advisors and helped turn his most ambitious dreams into reality. For us, it’s hard to imagine a world without Marty, because Marty is synonymous with Imagineering,” said Weis, President, Walt Disney Imagineering. “His influence can be seen around the world, in every Disney park, and in the creative and imaginative work of almost every professional in the themed entertainment industry.”Marty’s impact and achievements were recognized with a number of prestigious awards and accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement award from TEA (Themed Entertainment Association), induction into the Hall of Fame of IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions), and the prestigious Professional Achievement Award from UCLA.He also authored several books about his experiences and adventures at Disney: Dream It! Do It!: My Half-Century Creating Disney’s Magic Kingdoms (2013), and One Little Spark!: Mickey’s Ten Commandments and The Road to Imagineering (2015).Marty is survived by his wife of 60 years, Leah; son Howard and his wife, Katriina Koski-Sklar; grandchildren Gabriel and Hannah; daughter Leslie; and grandchildren Rachel and Jacob.Marty and Leah were two of the founders of the Ryman Program for Young Artists, a project of Ryman Arts, a nonprofit foundation whose purpose is to teach and mentor “traditional” drawing and painting skills to talented young artists in Southern California. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marty’s name to Ryman Arts at www.rymanarts.org.

Like I said earlier it hard to image a world without Marty Sklar, much of what we know today in the parks is because of Marty. I would have loved to meet with him in person like he did with many Disney fans. I know that on behalf of myself and even my friends at the MouseLife podcast send our deepest condolences to not only just the Sklar family but whole Disney family. We have a little less magic in our hearts from the loss of Marty Sklar. Rest in Peace, Marty.

Online Check-In Now Available on My Disney Experience App

The My Disney Experience App just received another new update this time that will allow guests to check-in online. Here is the rundown from the Disney Parks Blog:

Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels will be able to use Disney’s Online Check-In service on the My Disney Experience mobile app, expediting their arrival while providing additional convenience, flexibility and customization of their experience. The feature enables Guests to start the check-in process up to 60 days before their arrival, bypassing the need to visit the front desk and giving families the opportunity to begin their vacation as soon as they set foot in Walt Disney World Resort. Guests complete their check-in by unlocking their room, when it is ready, using the MagicBands sent to them prior to their arrival.

With just a few taps on your screen, guests can make room requests, add credit card information, authorize charges, submit an estimated arrival time to help prompt room access, and receive notification when your room is ready. Note: Room requests are not guaranteed and guests must provide consent to receive notifications.



Guests can begin the online check-in process at any point up to 60 days prior to their Walt Disney World vacation.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Walt Disney World Lifts August Blockouts for Annual Passholders; New Names for Mission: Space Missions

Walt Disney World Lifts Some August Blockouts for Annual Passholders:

In less than 3 weeks, we will be saying goodbye to The Great Movie Ride at Disney's Hollywood Studios and Ellen's Energy Adventure at Epcot to make way for new attractions. Since the announcement was made at the D23 Expo just a few weeks ago, many Annual Passholders who have been blocked out for the Summer were worried they may not get one last to chance to ride the two attractions before they close.

That was changed today, as Passholders got notification that Walt Disney World would be lifting the blockout dates early.

Now guests with Silver and Weekday Select Annual Passes will be able to start visiting Walt Disney World beginning August 1. This will give them almost two weeks to enjoy these two attractions one last time.

Source: The Laughing Place

New Mission: Space Missions Will Get New Names:

When Mission: Space returns in just a few weeks guests riding the attraction will no longer be choosing between the Green Mission and the Orange Mission. The two missions will have new names when the attraction opens. 

The classic Orange Mission will now be called "Mission: Space - Mars." The new kid-friendly mission that was the Green Mission will now be called, "Mission: Space - Earth." The new names reflect where each of the missions go on their destinations. 

Source: WDW News Today

Introducing the New Baseline Tap House in New Grand Avenue Area at Hollywood Studios

Just announced is the new Baseline Tap House coming to a brand new area called Grand Avenue at Disney's Hollywood Studios this Fall. The area near where the former Writer's Stop is being re-imagined to capture the spirit of present-day Downtown Los Angeles, showing vintage office buildings and warehouses representing the  different vibrant districts and cultures of the city. 

One of the brand new hot spots will be the brand new Baseline Tap House which will be a cheerful corner pub specializing in beers and wines from California. It will be in a quaint brick building and will celebrate the revitalization of Downtown Los Angeles by paying homage to the building’s former life as the Figueroa Printing Company, a mom-and-pop print house that had ties to the Disney studios in nearby Burbank. 

The space (the old Writer's Stop building) will retain many of its cool architectural and mechanical details with exposed walls and old printing equipment and artifacts, blending the past and present in an inviting space. Outside is a charming tree-shaded terrace, perfect for a relaxing break in the day.

California craft ales, lagers and cider are the stars of the drink menu. California wines on tap along with specialty cocktails are not to be missed either. A gourmet non-alcoholic lemonade and soda on tap round out the drink selection. If you’re feeling a little hungry try one of the small bites that will include a Bavarian pretzel with mustard and beer-cheese fondue, spiced almonds or a charcuterie board featuring California cheeses. Baseline Tap House will open daily at 11 a.m.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Discontinues Disney Vacation Account Service

Disney Discontinues Disney Vacation Account Service:

The service that helped families save up for a magical vacation is being discontinued by Disney. The Disney Vacation Account service is being discontinued and guests can no longer add new accounts or add any new contributions to existing accounts. Guests now have four different options to get their refunds from their savings accounts.

The first option will allow guests to put their balances onto one or multiple Disney Gift Cards with an added 5% bonus. This of course can be used towards a Disney vacation and with the 5% bonus added to the gift card makes it one of the most rewarding options. 

Option 2 is just transferring the funds to booking a vacation right now, if the account has enough that guests are ready to book this may be the best option.

The third option is to do nothing. If you choose to do this on September 27 (the day the program completely shuts down), Disney will send out full refunds but it may take some time. Since it may take time, Disney will send guests a Disney Gift Card with 2% of the total of their balance in addition to their total refund. 

The final option is you can request a full refund at any time from now or before September 27 but you will not get the 2% added bonus on a gift card. You can find out more information on the Disney Vacation Account website. 

Ryan Seacrest Coming Back to Host American Idol, New Way to Find Magic Shots at Walt Disney World

Ryan Seacrest Coming Back to Host ABC's American Idol:

Ryan Seacrest is returning to host ABC's version of American Idol as he announced today on Live with Kelly and Ryan. Only one judge so far has been announced for the show and that is Grammy-winning recording artist, Katy Perry. Shooting for the show will begin this summer. 

This will be one of Seacrest’s many, many jobs, including the aforementioned Live With Kelly and Ryan hosting job, as well as his continuing radio gig: “On Air with Ryan Seacrest.” He originally hosted American Idol since its inception, from 2002 to 2016. Seacrest warmed up his vocals for the show on the show's Instagram page:

🚨this is not a #tbt 🚨

A post shared by American Idol (@americanidol) on Jul 20, 2017 at 6:09am PDT

New Way to Find Magic Shots at Walt Disney World:

With Magic Shots from Disney PhotoPass Service, you can transform your photos into unique keepsakes of you recreating a favorite movie moment, enjoying your vacation with a Disney Character, or reacting to a fun surprise. All you need is a little imagination, and a PhotoPass photographer.  Now you can find all the available Magic Shots all in one place. 

Head over to the Albums page on the Disney PhotoPass Facebook page, where through the photos tab in Albums you can see a Magic Shot album in each park. The information will continue to be updated as the offerings for Magic Shots adjust and expand. 

Please note that Magic Shot offerings are subject to change and photographer availability. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Chase Ends Sponsorship for Food & Wine; New Adventures Begin at Mission: Space

Chase Ends Sponsorship for Epcot International Food & Wine Festival:

Last week, we finally got a chance to look at all the menus for the global marketplaces for this year's Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. This week it seems to be different sort of news as Chase will no longer be sponsoring the festival this year. 

Which means Disney Chase Cardholders will no longer receive early booking privileges, no special event for cardholders, and most important it looks like there will be no Chase Lounge which was quite a nice break the last few years.

Source: Disney Food Blog

More Details on the New Missions Coming to Mission: Space:

We received news from the D23 Expo that Mission: Space would open next month and guests would see different missions when it re-opens. The orange (more intense) will be updated and the green mission (less intense) will have a whole new mission all together.

The updated Orange Mission will make an even more visually stunning trip to Mars, while the all-new Green adventure will allow guests to blast off for an orbital adventure around planet Earth.

Are you excited about the changes coming to Mission: Space at Epcot? 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

More Details on Haul-O-Ween at Disney California Adventure

On Saturday, it was announced that Halloween at Disneyland would expand over to Cars Land in Disney California Adventure for Haul-O-Ween. Today, we got more details on Haul-O-Ween in Cars Land from the Disney Parks Blog.

Cars Land will get all gussied up with four-wheeled frights as the citizens of Radiator Springs don their Halloween costumes and decorate their homes to celebrate Haul-O-Ween. From Fillmore’s Jack-Oil Lanterns and Flo’s Spider-Car to Witchy Miss Lizzie’s shop, everybody’s doing all they can to turn Radiator Springs into Radiator Screams! Guests will experience some of their favorite Cars Land attractions in new ways as Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree becomes Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters transforms into Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween.

Also at Disney California Adventure, on Buena Vista Street new Halloween decorations will put a spell on the park. Oogie Boogie will rise above the shadows and his oversize silhouette will beckon guests as they enter the park as a swarm of bats encircle Carthay Circle Theatre. 

Will you be visiting Disney California Adventure and Cars Land this Haul-O-Ween?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

15th Disney Vacation Club Resort Announced, New Marvel Themed Hotel at Disneyland Paris, & More

Chapek Announces Disney Riviera Resort, Disney Vacation Club's 15th Resort:

During last night's D23 Expo Parks & Resorts Panel, President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Bob Chapek announced Disney Vacation Club's 15th resort. The resort will be called the Disney Riviera Resort. 

The resort will include a rooftop restaurant that will have “unbelievable views of nighttime spectaculars at both Epcot and Hollywood Studios," said Chapek.

No other details were announced on the new Vacation Club Resort.

Marvel-Themed Disney's Hotel New York Coming to Disneyland Paris:

More news that came out of last night's panel was that exciting announcement that Disney's Hotel New York will be re-imagined into Disney's Hotel New York - The Art of Marvel. Chapek had this to say on the re-imagined resort:

“We’re going to create a hotel at Disneyland Paris that would make Tony Stark proud. I’m thrilled to announce that Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel will transport our guests to the action-packed, inspiring world of Super Heroes including Iron Man, The Avengers, and Spider Man among others!" said Chapek.

Stay tuned for more details on this project in the future right here on It All Started With a Mouse.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Cruise Line Adding Three New Ships by 2023:

Last year, it was announced that two new ships would be coming to Disney Cruise Line. Last night, it was announced not just two ships would be added but a third ship would be completed for the line by 2023. 

The first two ships are being built in Germany at the Meyer Werft shipyard and will be completed by 2021 and 2023. The new ship which was announced last night will be built in the same ship yard and be completed by 2022. 

“We decided two ships wouldn’t be enough to hold all of the exciting new experiences we have been dreaming up to take family cruise vacations to a whole new level with immersive Disney storytelling, world-class family entertainment, and imaginative innovations that are fantastically fun and uniquely Disney,” Bob Chapek, President  of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, said. 

All ship names, design plans and itineraries are still in development, with each of the ships expected to have their own unique experiences. The three new ships will be powered by clean-burning liquefied natural gas and be the same size – approximately 135,000 gross tons with about 1,250 guest staterooms planned – which is slightly larger than the newest Disney Cruise Line ships, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

As always stay tuned for more details on the 3 new ships coming to Disney Cruise Line. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

It certainly is an exciting time the next few years at the parks whether it be at Walt Disney World or Disneyland. I can't wait to see what the next few years brings in news and rumors for Disney Parks & Resorts. 

Paradise Pier to Become Pixar Pier & More Changes Coming to Disneyland & Disney California Adventure

While not as big as the news coming out of Walt Disney World, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure will be seeing changes to its parks. First up, was the big news that Paradise Pier will become Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure in 2018.

Pixar Pier will feature a brand-new look for the area now known as Paradise Pier, as some of your favorite characters come to life on this seaside waterfront. You will discover whimsical neighborhoods filled with your friends from “The Incredibles,” “Inside Out” and even more of your pals from “Toy Story.”

This will be a permanent addition at Disney California Adventure replacing Paradise Pier. It will open during a brand new limited-time event taking place at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure in 2018 called, "Pixar Fest." 

At Disneyland park, this incredible celebration will feature a brand-new fireworks spectacular as well as the return of the guest favorite, Pixar Play Parade. Over at Disney California Adventure guests will see the return of Paint the Night with a brand new float added. More details on Pixar Pier and Pixar Fest will be coming out in the coming months.

That's not all as this Halloween over in Cars Land, guests will be able to experience the holiday as our favorite characters in the land will be celebrating Halloween. 

Bob Chapek save the biggest news for last at Disney California Adventure where a new Marvel-themed land will be built at the park. 

Guardians of the Galaxy have already invaded the park with Mission: BREAKOUT! but soon they will be joined by more of our favorite superheroes. Spider-man and the Avengers will join them in a completely new immersive superhero themed land. 

No other details were announced just to stay tuned in the future on more updates about our favorite Marvel Superheroes coming to Disney California Adventure.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Skyliner (Gondolas) Plus Minnie Vans Announced as New Transportation

We have talking about the gondolas coming to Walt Disney World for months and tonight during the Disney Parks & Resorts panel they were confirmed. The new transportation system will be called the Disney Skyliner.

The new transportation system will as previously reported connect Disney's Art of Animation, Disney's Pop Century, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and the International Gateway at Epcot. 

As seen in the concept art above, the gondolas will feature many of our favorite Disney characters as we travel around the Walt Disney World Resort. Construction has already begun on the towers at each station location for the Disney Skyliner. It is expected to be completed by 2019. 

This wasn't the only new form of transportation that was announced during the panel as the new Minnie Van Uber-like service was revealed.

“Since we’re all about exceeding guest expectations and making every aspect of your vacation uniquely Disney, we’re creating a new point-to-point transportation service in a way that only Disney can do,” Bob Chapek, President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts said.

The Minnie vehicles will take you everywhere you want to go at the Walt Disney World Resort, and you’ll ride in Minnie’s classic style, in a Minnie-inspired Chevy Traverse. This new Minnie Van service is expected begin testing later this month at Disney's Boardwalk and Yacht Club Resorts. 

The service will cost $20 per car per trip and once tested will expand to several other locations throughout Walt Disney World.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

TRON Lightcyle Power Run Coaster Confirmed; New Theater Coming to Magic Kingdom

TRON Lightcylce Power Run Coaster Confirmed for Tomorrowland:

What was rumored to be confirmed earlier in the week is officially confirmed. The TRON Lightcycle Power Run rollercoaster, that debuted last year when Shanghai Disneyland opened, is coming to Tomorrowland in Walt Disney World. 

The attraction will be placed right next to Space Mountain in an entirely new area. The Tomorrowland Speedway which was rumored to be going away will be staying and be re-routed due to the new attraction. 

The TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is a coaster-style attraction where riders board a train of two-wheeled Lightcycles. It offers access into the energy, lights and excitement of TRON’s high-tech universe and is one of the most thrilling adventures at any Disney park.

The attraction will open in time for Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary in 2021. 

New Theater Inspired by the Willis Wood Theater in Kansas City Coming to Magic Kingdom:

A brand new theater inspired a very famous theater from Kansas City is coming to Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. The theater inspired by the famous Willis Wood Theater in Kansas City, near Walt's hometown of Marceline. The new theater will be built right off Main Street, USA. 

“Across Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we’ve been upping the game in Entertainment with shows like Frozen Live at the Hyperion. It’s been a huge hit at the Disneyland Resort, and I’m sure many of you have seen it. This new theater at Walt Disney World continues that streak by bringing a new venue for world-class entertainment to the world’s biggest park," said Bob Chapek, President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. 

As to what will be performed here, that was not announced so stay tuned for future updates on the new theater coming to Main Street, USA. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Guardians of the Galaxy, Ratatouille, New Space Restaurant, & More Coming to Epcot

We all knew since November that changes were coming to Epcot, we just weren't sure what. Over the last months rumors have been swirling and some were confirmed tonight some seem like they will be announced at a later date. Here is what they announced:

Ratatouille Attraction is Coming to France Pavilion, New Film Coming to China Pavilion:

A new Ratatouille-inspired attraction will be coming to the France Pavilion in World Showcase. It will be similar to the 4-D attraction Ratatouille: The Adventure that opened at the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris in 2014. Guests will be able to shrink to Remy’s size and scurry to safety in a dazzling chase across a kitchen with the sights, sounds and smells of Gusteau’s legendary Parisian restaurant.

The attraction will expand the pavilion and the good news for many fans is that Impressions de France will remain at the pavilion. The new attraction is expected to be completed in 2021.

Also of note a new film is coming to the China Pavilion almost like a Soarin' type exploration that will take you around the country. No other details were released.

Guardians of the Galaxy Attraction Replacing Universe of Energy Plus Updates to Future World:

We all knew it was coming it was just when. A Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired attraction is coming to Epcot and replacing Ellen's Energy Adventure and the Universe of Energy. The pavilion and Ellen's Energy Adventure will have its final day of operation on August 13, 2017. 

Epcot’s brand new E-ticket attraction will be based on the rockin’ and action-packed world of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and is the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at the Walt Disney World Resort. Epcot just may be the perfect place for a “Guardians”-inspired attraction as you can see in the photo above – Peter Quill (aka Star Lord) actually visited Epcot as a kid! The attraction is also expected to be completed by 2021.

That's not all as Future World will see a major overhaul to the whole are as seen in this concept art.

Mission: Space which saw its refurbishment extended recently will have two new missions when it opens back up. This led to talk about the other breaking news.

New Space Restaurant to Placed Right Next to Mission: Space:

A brand new restaurant experience is coming to Epcot with a space theme. The restaurant will be built adjacent to Mission: Space and will invite guests to travel into space for an amazing dining experience in the stars.

Disney Imagineer Tom Fitzgerald had this to say, "We know our guests love dining at Epcot – and the restaurants really are out of this world. Now we're about to create one that takes that literally."

The new space restaurant will be operated by the Patina Restaurant Group. Patina Restaurant Group operates several other restaurants at Walt Disney World including Tutto Italia and Via Napoli at Epcot and Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs. More details on the new space-themed restaurant will be shared in the future, so stay tuned.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway, & More Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios

The Disney Parks & Resorts Panel at the D23 Expo just ended and boy did we receive some news. Here is just a list of what's coming to Walt Disney World in the next few years.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is Official Will Open in Disneyland First:

The first news from the panel and President of Parks & Resorts Bob Chapek was for Star Wars Land. It was officially confirmed that the lands in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World will be called Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. The lands will both open in 2019 but it will open up in Disneyland first.

The lands will allow guests to isit a remote trading port on the edge of wild space, where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life – and where guests will find themselves in the middle of the action.

The lands will feature two major attractions that put guests in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. Each attraction – and even the land itself – will offer guests the chance to immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe like never before.

One attraction will make you feel like you’re on a Star Destroyer inside a hangar bay. It’s an attraction built on a scale we’ve never done before (this is the First Order vs. The Resistance ride). The second attraction will give guests the opportunity to fly the Millenium Falcon, piloting the ship, shooting blasters or preparing for hyperspace – all while completing a critical mission. But how you perform on the mission holds even bigger stakes: perform with skill and you may earn extra galactic credits, while bringing the ship back banged up could put you on the list of a bounty hunter. End up on Harkos’s list and you may face a problem if you show up at the local cantina!

We will also be able to meet up with BB-8, Kylo Ren, members of the First Order among other in Galaxy's Edge. Rex, from the original Star Tours, will be making a return as a DJ at the cantina. At the cantina, guests will of course be able to try blue milk and nearby acquire trinkets and treasures from around the galaxy. 

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway to Replace The Great Movie Ride:

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway is coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios and will replace the iconic Great Movie Ride. The Great Movie ride will have its last day of operation on August 13, 2017. The attraction will be inspired by the new Mickey Shorts that air on the Disney Channel. Here is what Imagineer Kevin Rafferty had to say about the new attraction:

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway will feature a new story and a new singable attraction theme song as well as a new experience we’re calling “2 1/2 D.” No glasses required. Walt Disney Imagineer Kevin Rafferty said teams are inventing new technologies that turn the flat world of a colorful cartoon short into a “dimensional display of amazingness.”
“This is one of the boldest…most impossible things I’ve ever worked on in almost 40 years of being an Imagineer. And you know what? That’s what I love about it. Well, that, and Mickey,” Kevin said. “This is not going to be a small attraction, it’s going to be game-changing.”

More updates on Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway are coming in the near future so stay tuned.

Star Wars Inspired-Themed Resort Coming to Walt Disney World:

The Star Wars-themed hotel was confirmed tonight during the Disney Parks & Resorts Panel at the D23 Expo. It will debut as part of a brand new Disney 360 vacation concept. Bob Chapek had this to say on the new resort coming to be built right next to Disney's Hollywood Studios:

“It’s unlike anything that exists today.” Bob said. “From the second you arrive, you will become a part of a Star Wars story! You’ll immediately become a citizen of the galaxy and experience all that entails, including dressing up in the proper attire. Once you leave Earth, you will discover a starship alive with characters, stories, and adventures that unfold all around you. It is 100% immersive, and the story will touch every single minute of your day, and it will culminate in a unique journey for every person who visits.”

More details on this amazing resort experience will be released in the coming months.

Toy Story Land to Open Summer 2018:

Finally, we did receive an update on Toy Story Land. It will open sometime in Summer 2018 (an exact date wasn't given). It was confirmed that guests will now enter Toy Story Midway Mania inside of Toy Story Land. Here is more information on the Slinky Dog Coaster and Alien Swirling Saucers attractions that are coming to the new land:

The new Slinky Dog Dash will be a family coaster attraction where you’ll zip, dodge and dash around many turns and drops that Andy has created to really make Slinky and his coils stretch to his limits.

Alien Swirling Saucers will also be a new attraction at Toy Story Land. It’s 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 with “The Claw.”

As always stay tune for more updates on the official opening date of Toy Story Land.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Breaking: Does Star Wars Land Have a Name in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge?

This is late breaking news however this has not been officially announced. It appears as someone looking through the Disney Parks Blog source code that they have found out the name of Star Wars Land. According to the code for the blog it will be called Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

While this isn't official, it sure sounds like this will be announced during tomorrow's Disney Parks & Resorts Panel. Earlier today, CEO Bob Iger promised many, many announcements in store during tomorrow's panel. The Disney Parks & Resorts Panel takes place at 3 p.m. PST/ 6 p.m. EST at the D23 Expo. 

Disney & Pixar Animation Panel Review at the D23 Expo

The D23 Expo kicked off earlier today but just a little bit ago one of main panels of the expo in the Disney & Pixar Animation Panel hosted by Head of Disney Animation himself, John Lasseter. We got some news on several films including 'Wreck-it Ralph 2', 'Incredibles 2', 'Coco', 'Toy Story 4', and more. First up though was news on a new untitled DisneyToons film that is due to be released in 2019.

The film will be about supersonic jets in space. It will be directed by Klay Hall and Bobs Gannaway, it is due out April 12, 2019. Next up, was an update on "Olaf's Frozen Adventure" which will return all 21 voices of the original cast. Kristen Bell (Anna) and Josh Gad (Olaf) showed up and sang one of the new original songs from the 21-minute short that will premiere before Pixar's "Coco."

Guests at the D23 Expo were then treated to the first trailer for "Wreck-It Ralph 2" (it has not been put up on the internet yet). Sarah Silverman (Vanellope Von Schweetz) along with directors Rich Moore and Phil Johnston were on hand to help debut the trailer. Also brought on was a new character named Yesss voiced by Taraji P. Henson. 

"Wreck-It Ralph 2" tells the story of Ralph and Vanellope breaking the internet to find the pieces to fix Sugar Rush. The clips they showed Ralph and Vanellope visiting OhMyDisney.com, which looks a lot like Disneyland. Stan Lee among other things make cameo appearances in the scene including the likes of Disney Tsum Tsums, Buzz Lightyear, and C-3PO. 

The biggest news however was that all the Disney Princesses will lend their voices for the film. That list includes: Paige O'Hara (Belle), Jodi Benson (Ariel), Linda Larkin (Jasmine), Anika Noni Rose (Tiana), Mandy Moore (Rapunzel), Irene Bedard (Pocahontas), Kelly MacDonald (Merida), Kristen Bell (Anna), and Auli’i Cravalho (Moana), who all appeared on stage. 

The scene plays out like this with Vanellope saying this about Merida, "I can't understand her." With the Disney princesses responding, "She's from the other studio." This film looks hilarious and I can't wait until next March.

Next up, was the "Incredibles 2" which opened up with a tribute to Edna Mode. 

Edna Mode is always a la mode. One of the world’s most visionary designers is back in Incredibles 2. #BravoEdna. pic.twitter.com/OPAxuh9aoc

— Disney•Pixar (@DisneyPixar) July 14, 2017

 Director Brad Bird and the cast including Samuel L. Jackson took the stage to talk about the film. The film takes place right where the first film left off. The movie shows how the Incredibles are more human. The clip that was shown where Baby Jack-Jack faces off with a raccoon. Jack Jack discovers his powers in the film.

"Incredibles 2" flies into theaters June 15, 2018.

New up was "Toy Story 4" which the most shocking news was that John Lasseter has stepped back from directing the film. Josh Cooley will now direct the film, with Lasseter mentoring him. Guests got a first look at a new paper doll-like character named Lulu from the film. The storyline right now could be involved around an RV trip. The film is due out Summer 2019. 

Pixar's next new film which does not have a release date is set in a suburban fantasy world and will be directed by Dan Scanlon. Scanlon said he drew inspiration on how he wanted to know who his father was and how he was like him. More details on this untitled film will be released at the next D23 Expo in 2019.

The final movie previewed during the panel was Pixar's "Coco" which will hit theaters in November. A new image of the film was released plus a longer look at the film showing the rich beauty of the film and  how it explores the family aspect of Miguel's passion for music.

A new song called "Remember Me" was revealed as it is written by Bobby Lopez and Kristen Anderson Lopez. Another clip was shown of Miguel exploring the Land of the Dead. The song "Remember Me" was then performed to end the panel by Benjamin Brett who plays the character Ernesto. 

Stay tuned throughout the weekend for more news out of the D23 Expo.