All the Details from Saturday's Destination D Parks Panel (Part 2)

Continuing on from part one of the Destination D announcements we will start off with the most recently announced Disney Vacation Club resort that will be built on the land of the old River Country. Yesterday, it was announced that the resort would be called Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge. Here is the concept art for the resort:

The deluxe resort will be nature-themed and will consist of 900 hotel rooms and proposed Disney Vacation Club Villas. Back in October, Terri Schultz - Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club had this to say about the new resort:

“This resort experience will be a celebration of Walt Disney’s lifelong love and respect for nature, with some fun and even surprising accommodation types that families will find irresistible. It will give our members and guests yet another opportunity to stay in close proximity to all the newest attractions and experiences in our theme parks, and with the flexibility, value and world-class service families expect from Disney.”

There is no timeframe of when this resort will be completed.

Another Disney Vacation Club resort is already well underway in construction in Disney's Riviera Resort which was announced that it will be completed by Fall 2019.

The 15th DVC resort is inspired by the European grandeur Walt Disney experienced in his travels along Europe’s Mediterranean coastline. As you can see from the newly released concept art, Disney Vacation Club Members and other guests will have a great view of fireworks spectaculars and easy access to the Disney Skyliner, which will have a station at the resort.

The story behind Disney's Riviera Resort is that in 1935, not long after Mickey Mouse was born, Walt took a break from the production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Walt & Lillian and Roy & Edna Disney took an extended grand tour of Europe that would have an impact on Disney storytelling for decades to come. With its castles and colorful, fairy-tale villages, Walt fell in love with Europe – the art, the architecture, the food, and, of course, the stories. 

Earlier this week, Bob Chapek announced that the Disney Skyliner system would also be debuting in Fall of 2019. Yesterday, though guests attending Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse got their first look at the gondolas that will take to the sky on the Disney Skyliner.

Once in operation the Skyliner will connect Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios to four resort hotels including: Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Art of Animation, Disney's Pop Century, and Disney's Riviera Resort. Check out Bob Chapek and Mickey revealing the very first look at the gondola:

As you can see the gondolas will have iconic Disney characters including the Fab Five, favorite characters from Disney attractions, and of course one's from our favorite films as well. I can't wait to ride the Disney Skyliner.

All the Details from Saturday's Destination D Parks Panel (Part 1)

Its been a while but what better to get back in the thick of things on Mickey's 90th birthday and to go over just what was announced during the Parks Panel yesterday morning at Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse. Disney Parks & Resorts chairman Bob Chapek kicked things off with announcements that Mickey's Mix Magic nighttime spectacular will debut on January 18 at Disneyland with all-new music, projections and lasers that set the scene for an epic dance party that takes over almost the entire park. Also returning in January will be Mickey's Soundsational Parade with a new float with Mickey himself.

Coming this May to Disney's Hollywood studios, a new nighttime cinematic spectacular experience, in the "Wonderful World of Animation" will debut in celebration with the park's 30th Anniversary. The show will use state of the art projection technology taking guests on a magical journey through more than 90 years of Disney animation beginning with Mickey himself. 

More details are to come later on the opening of Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway which Chapek revealed yesterday that the attraction is about a year away from opening, setting it up to open in the Fall of 2019.

Next, Bob headed over to give us details about the revamp of Epcot revealing that besides the update of the circle vision show in China, the O' Canada show is also in the process of getting an update of the 360 degree show at the Canada pavilion. Just a few months ago though Disney announced that Illuminations: Reflections of Earth will be ending its run in the fall of 2019. It will be replaced with an interim show called, "Epcot Forever."

The show will feature classic Epcot tunes which will begin with a spark of imagination that will swell into an epic spectacle of fireworks, music, lighting, lasers, and special effects kites. 

In 2020, "Epcot Forever" will be replaced with the main nighttime spectacular replacing Illuminations. This show will celebrate how Disney music inspires people all around the world. It will feature massive floating set pieces, custom-built LED panels, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics, and lasers.

That's not all as Chapek revealed the name of the Ratatouille attraction coming to the France pavilion. It will be called Remy's Ratatouille Adventure. He also shared that a new Beauty and the Beast sing-a-long, will debut in France in addition to "Impressions de France." The show is being created by Don Hahn who produced both the animated and live-action films.

We are all excited for Star Wars Galaxy's Edge which will opening in Summer 2019 in Disneyland and Fall 2019 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. We now know what the two attractions will be called, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. We even received a first look into both attractions.

Smugglers Run will of course take guests right into the Millennium Falcon and feature Chewbacca and Hondo Ohnaka, right from "Star Wars: Clone Wars" and "Star Wars: Rebels." 

First Look at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run:


Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will take guests on a battle between the First Order and the Resistance including a face-off with Kylo Ren himself.

First Look at Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance:

Both attractions will have optional interactive integration with the Play Disney Parks App which will invite guests to become galactic travelers and live their own Star Wars stories in a galaxy far, far away. That's not all as Bob Chapek revealed that Disney legend and Oscar-winning composer John Williams is currently creating new and original themes that will be played throughout Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Here is a preview of what Williams is creating:



Finally, Chapek shared new details on the Star Wars resort that will open next to Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

This groundbreaking experience is unlike any resort experience you’ve ever seen. From the moment you board your launch pod, it’s a fully-immersive, multi-day Star Wars adventure aboard a luxury starship complete with high-end dining, space-view cabins and all of the exciting action you would expect from an authentic Star Wars experience.

Part two will include details on Disney's Riviera Resort and the new Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge plus our first look at the gondolas for the Disney Skyliner. 

Happy 4th of July Celebrate with #DisneyParksLIVE; New Fleet for Disney Magical Express

Happy 4th of July Celebrate with #DisneyParksLIVE:

Happy Birthday America! Tonight, as they have the past few years the Disney Parks Blog will live stream, “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” from Magic Kingdom. The #DisneyParksLIVE stream will begin at 9:10 p.m. EST. 

It is one of the most popular live streams and one of the best fireworks displays all year round. You will want to tune in for this one. Happy 4th of July everyone!

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Fleet Coming this Summer for Disney Magical Express:

On Monday, Walt Disney World Resort announced that the Disney Magical Express will be getting a modernized look with a new fleet this summer. 

The new fleet will be much like the Disney Cruise Line fleet and will display the iconic Disney script as seen above. Guests will also be seeing Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Donald, and Daisy on the busses. 

The new fleet will debut sometime later this summer.

Source: WDW News Today

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy Coming Early in 2019; New Image Unveiled for Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy Coming Early in 2019:

Toy Story Land may be opening tomorrow but today during the media event of What's Coming it was announced that a new show will debut in early 2019 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, a high-octane first-of-its-kind new show that’ll put you right in the middle of the world of Disney Pixar’s “Cars.”

It will be located near Rock 'N' Roller Coaster (most likely in the Sunset Showcase Theater). In Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy you will come you’ll come face-to-face with racing legend Lightning McQueen, who is excited to showcase what he’s learned over the years with you – the next generation of rookie racers. Of course, as Lightning McQueen has discovered throughout his career, things don’t always go according to plan, and he has to think fast to get back on course. With friends Tow Mater, Cruz Ramirez and the gang from Radiator Springs on his side, Lightning gears up for the challenge.

Will you be ready to rev your engines up when Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy debuts early next year?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Image Unveiled for Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway:

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy wasn't the only news to come out of the media event as a new image for Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway was also unveiled.

The attraction will totally immerse guests in a cartoon world and will feature a new catchy theme song created especially for the attraction.
The fun begins when you see the premiere of a new cartoon short with Mickey and Minnie preparing for a picnic. As they head out, they drive alongside a train and find out that the engineer is Goofy. Then, one magical moment lets you step into the movie and on Goofy’s train for a wacky, wild ride.

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway although not announced officially is expected to open at Disney's Hollywood Studios sometime in Summer 2019.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

A Little Tribute to the Man Who Made Me Who I Am Today

It's been a month since I've gotten around to post anything on here as shortly after my last post my father's health deteriorated and 1 week later he passed away. After nearly 20 years of health issues he was finally at peace but the pain for me while has gotten better to some degree I still wish everyday I could hear his voice or see his smile just one more time.

What can I say about the man who when I was young between him and my mother took me to Disney multiple times and allowed us to be able to stay at the Polynesian which became our favorite resort as a family. Being able to walk around World Showcase his absolute favorite part of the parks. If he could he would just walk around that multiple times a day all while seeing The American Adventure his favorite because he loved history. 

Disney was just one of his favorites and I am so thankful he got to go back in January one last time with four of his grandchildren. It wasn't all about Disney with my father, he loved sports including the New York Yankees and New York Giants. I loved talking baseball with my Dad and loved getting in arguments over our football teams (I am a Cowboys fan). His stories were always interesting no matter how many times I had heard them already.

I miss my Dad so much and I couldn't just get back into writing a blog without sharing where I have been. Blogs might take a while to get back to normal including now that I am planning a wedding. Lucky enough for me, I was able to ask my now fiancé to marry me back in April in Epcot and celebrating with my father as he beamed with pride that I, his son, will get to marry the love of his life. I could only wish that he would be able to see the wedding in person.  I know though that he will be looking down on us with his amazing smile and how happy he will be.

I can only hope that I can be half the man he was because he was so amazing as a father to me and my two sisters. The memories I have with him will last forever. I love you Dad and may you Rest in Peace.

Location Confirmed for Star Wars Immersive Resort at Disney's Hollywood Studios

We learned on Sunday that the village inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge would be called Black Spire Outpost. Today, the Disney Parks Blog confirmed the location of the exclusive Star Wars immersive resort planned for Disney's Hollywood Studios. 

It is currently in development on the south side of Disney's Hollywood Studios, just east of World Drive. It will be seamlessly connected to Galaxy's Edge which will allow guests to fully immerse themselves into the story of Star Wars.

This experience stands out among all of our destinations around the globe. Families visiting this destination will board a starship that comes alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them during their voyage through the galaxy – and every cabin window has views of space! Guests visiting the multi-day adventure will also be welcome to participate as a resident of the Galaxy by dressing in Star Wars-inspired attire.

Stay tuned for future updates on the immersive Star Wars Resort and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge in the coming months. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Village Inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Named

Village Inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Named:

During last night's Star Wars: Galactic Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, we got some new details on Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Last week it was officially announced that Galaxy's Edge would open Summer 2019 in Disneyland and late Fall 2019 at Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World. Guests will travel to the outer rim to the planet of Batuu and last night we learned that the village on Batuu will be called Black Spire Outpost. 

The largest settlement on the planet Batuu, Black Spire Outpost is an infamous stop for traders, adventurers, and smugglers traveling around the Outer Rim and Wild Space. Off the beaten path, this outpost has become a haven for the galaxy’s most colorful — and notorious — characters. Widely known for the petrified remains of its once towering ancient trees, the spires now stand guard across the river valleys and plains and have long captured the imagination of travelers to this planet. To the first settlers, these petrified spires became more than just landmarks; they became the heart of the outpost itself.

That's not all as we got our first look as the full size AT-AT's that are part of the unnamed Battle of the First Order attraction where guests will hop on a Resistance transport and be taken right into the middle of the battle. Guests will also see a familiar character from the saga will be recognized while visiting Batuu in Nien Nunb. 

There was more as there will be a stall full of creatures from the Star Wars universe on Batuu. This will include the famous Loth-Cats that may just be walking around the planet itself much like the rumored droids that will be roaming Galaxy's Edge. Loth-Cats are from Clone Wars as well as most recently ended "Star Wars Rebels" series.

We are getting closer and closer to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and stay tuned to hear even more details about Batuu and Black Spire Outpost in the coming months. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Opening Seasons for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, First Look at Edna Mode, and More

Just Announced: Opening Seasons for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge:

It is official as the Disney Parks Blog just announced a short while ago that Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will open in Summer 2019 at Disneyland and late Fall 2019 at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World. 

To get us even more for the new fully immersed land they dropped another sneak peak of what guests can expect when they enter the new world:

Source: Disney Parks Blog

First Look at Edna Mode Coming to Disney Parks:

As announced a few weeks ago Edna Mode from "The Incredibles" will be making her debut at Disney Parks. Today, we got our first look and when she will make her official debut at Walt Disney World and Disney California Adventure Park.

At Walt Disney World, Edna Mode will make her debut at the Magic Kingdom starting this weekend when "Incredible Summer" kicks off for Memorial Day weekend. Guests will be able to visit the Incredible Tomorrowland Expo to party with the characters from "Incredibles 2" including Edna Mode herself.

At Disney California Adventure, she will be jetting over to greet with guests on June 15 just in time for the debut of "Incredibles 2" as part of Pixar Fest. Edna Mode will continue to favor us with her presence to celebrate the opening of Pixar Pier later this Summer. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Dates Announced for Festival of the Holiday and Candlelight Processional at Epcot:

We have one more announcement today from the Disney Parks Blog. Today, they announced the official dates for Epcot's International Festival of the Holidays and the famous Candlelight Processional. The International Festival of the Holidays will return on November 18 through December 30. The Candlelight Processional will open for the first time ever on Thanksgiving this year on November 22 and run through December 30. 

The Epcot International Festival of the Holidays invites guests to discover holiday cheer throughout the park and across all 11 World Showcase pavilions. Special entertainment, storytellers, seasonal favorites at Holiday Kitchens, and eye-catching holiday decor are all part of the fun. Evenings during this time are topped off with a special holiday presentation of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.”
The Candlelight Processional, a holiday must-do for many Epcot guests, is a retelling of the traditional Christmas story read by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a massed choir and live orchestra.

Stay tuned in the coming months as the narrators will be announced for the Candlelight Processional as well details on the always popular dining packages.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Japan Signature Restaurant Confirmed; No More Shenanigans at Whispering Canyon Cafe

Japan Signature Restaurant Confirmed:

Disney quietly yesterday confirmed that a new signature restaurant will come to the Japan Pavilion in Epcot. Back in January, rumors surface about a new signature dining experience coming right next to the current Mitsukoshi store in the Japan pavilion. Here are the details of the confirmation in yesterday's announcement:

While we’re on the topic of Epcot, I have one more exciting announcement: an all-new table service restaurant will be coming to the Japan Pavilion in World Showcase, offering guests a signature dining experience inspired by the natural beauty of Japan. The setting will draw from both nature and takumi, which means “artisan” in Japanese, and the relationship between Japanese craftsmanship and the natural world will be evident throughout the space. This new restaurant will be operated by Mitsukoshi USA, which operates the merchandise, restaurants (Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining), and kiosks in the Japan Pavilion. Once completed, the restaurant will add to the rich tapestry of authentic cultural experiences available to guests in World Showcase.

No details on when the restaurant will open but this will be the second new restaurant coming to Epcot in the next few years. Stay tuned for future updates on both Japan Signature Dining Restaurant and the Space-themed restaurant in Future World.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

No More Shenanigans at Whispering Canyon Cafe:

After years of fun and shenanigans it appears the fun has gone to the wayside at Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney's Wilderness Lodge. The team that runs the Walt Disney World Today account on Twitter all but confirmed it over the last few days:

Hi Randy. We are continuously updating our offerings throughout Walt Disney World Resort and are currently working on what's next for Whispering Canyon. We apologize for any disappointments and will pass along any feedback to the appropriate leadership teams.

— Walt Disney World Today (@WDWToday) May 12, 2018

Here is the list of all shenanigans that many guests have enjoyed over the years of what guests would say that would get the shenanigans going:

• Wear a Hat or T-Shirt from Universal or Sea World
• Tell your server you spent the day at an attraction outside of WDW
• Tell the server whose birthday or anniversary it is
• Have your kids "egg him/her on"
• Have one of the males in the group ask where the restrooms are
• Claim your straw is not long enough
• Chew gum
• Ask the server where you can buy some chewing gum in WDW
• Ask for ketchup (every single ketchup bottle would be brought to your table)
• Order a soda for breakfast

Rumor has it that the reason for the fun ending is that guests above the restaurant were apparently claiming it was to loud. I sure will miss the fun the next time at Whispering Canyon Cafe.

Source: WDW News Today

Space-Themed Restaurant in Epcot Location Revealed; Epcot Entrance Hotel Work to Begin Soon

Space-Themed Restaurant in Epcot Location Revealed:

Last summer, during the D23 Expo a Space-themed restaurant was announced for the future of Epcot but no other details were announced. For months rumors have been swirling about two possible locations for the restaurant. One location was the former Wonders of Live pavilion which has been being worked on for the last few months and the other location being in between Mission: Space and Test Track.

Today, the Disney Parks Blog confirmed that the location for the space-themed restaurant will in fact be located in Future World in between Mission:Space and Test Track. The restaurant will be developed in a brand new area between the two attractions. 

Once completed, the restaurant will invite guests to travel to space for an amazing dining experience in the stars. The new restaurant will be operated by the Patina Restaurant Group, led by Nick Valenti, which operates several other restaurants around Walt Disney World Resort, including Tutto Italia and Via Napoli at Epcot and Morimoto Asia and Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs.

There is no official completion date or even a name as of yet for the Space-themed restaurant in Epcot. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

RUMOR: Epcot Entrance Hotel Work to Begin Soon:

According to WDW News Today, reports are that the hotel that is not officially announced for the entrance of Epcot, will begin construction soon. An official location is not confirmed but 27 permits were filed today for a project near the entrance of the theme park.

All the filings today are under the same name, 'JPEC8060', and all the same address for the Avenue of Stars. This will be around the perimeter road in the backstage area that encircles Epcot. With that many filings though the Epcot Entrance Resort certainly fits that description.

We still await Disney to officially announce the resort.

Source: WDW News Today

Mother's Day at Disney Springs; New Concept Art for Disney H2O Glow Nights

Mother's Day at Disney Springs:

This Sunday is a day we celebrate all Mother's and if you are visiting Disney Springs this Sunday, mom's will have quite the selection of places to celebrate their day. Here is a list of just some of the choices mom's can choose from:

• Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante – A special buffet will be served Sunday, May 13, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., featuring gems like mascarpone French toast, poached hen egg and quinoa kale salad and hand-carved NY strip steak. The regular lunch menu will also be served. Reservations available at Maria&Enzo’s.com.
• Enzo’s Hideaway – To celebrate Mother’s Day, Enzo’s Hideaway will offer a Prix Fixe menu of Italian specialties including ahi tuna crudo, ricotta gnocchi, pasta frutti di mare and trio of homemade gelatos. Moms will also receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco when dining on Mother’s Day.
• House of Blues Restaurant & Bar – Celebrate Mother’s Day at the restaurant’s famous Gospel Brunch – a soulful experience that includes an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet and live entertainment. Choose between the 10:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. seating based on availability.
• Paddlefish – Take in seafood and scenic views of Disney Springs aboard an iconic Mississippi riverboat. The regular Sunday brunch will also be available.
• Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant – Check out The Rollicking Raglan Brunch, May 12 and May 13, 2018, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The menu will include traditional Irish favorites, and live entertainment will be featured from noon to 4:00 p.m. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
• STK Orlando – A Mother’s Day weekend brunch buffet will be offered Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The buffet will include an omelet station, smoked salmon platter and an assortment of desserts including tres leches cakes, churros and cotton candy.
• Sweet Treats – Grab Mom dessert or a sweet treat at Sprinkles Cupcakes, The Ganachery or Amorette’s Patisserie.

You can make reservations now for Mother's Day this Sunday, May 13 by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463, or by visiting WaltDisneyWorld.com.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Concept Art for Disney H2O Glow Nights at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon:

A few weeks ago, Disney announced a new nighttime ticketed event coming to Disney's Typhoon Lagoon this summer called, Disney H2O Glow Nights. Today, we got new concept art for the new nighttime party.

With glowing beach balls, inner tubes and other lighting effects, Disney H2O Glow Nights is a rare opportunity for guests to experience Typhoon Lagoon under the moonlight. On select nights beginning June 21, Typhoon Lagoon becomes a luminous, nighttime hotspot featuring a DJ Dance Party on the beach, plus special character meetings with Buzz, Woody and Jessie from Pixar’s “Toy Story,” as they visit Typhoon Lagoon for the first time. And let’s not forget about our host, Partysaurus Rex, who is inviting guests to this one-of-a-kind experience.

Party games, unique food and beverage offerings, and all the attractions with minimal wait times will be available to guests of the party. Tickets for Disney H2O Glow Nights cost $55 for adults and $50 for children ages 3-9 (plus tax). Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.disneyworld.com/h2oglownights or by calling (407)939-1872.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Concrete Poured for 'Guardians of the Galaxy' Coaster at Epcot

Earlier this week, 960 trucks’ worth of concrete was poured to create the foundation of what will soon take shape as Epcot’s mammoth “Guardians of the Galaxy”-themed roller coaster attraction. The attraction is on track to become one of the world’s longest enclosed coasters. To house it, a new facility is being built adjacent to the existing Universe of Energy building. 

Check out the video below that the Disney Parks Blog shared today as a behind the scenes look:

The brand new 'Guardians of the Galaxy' roller coaster is set to debut in time for Walt Disney World's (Magic Kingdom) 50th Anniversary. This summer though to get your 'Guardians' fix, Star-Lord and Gamora will take guests on musical journey through the cosmos in "Guardians of the Galaxy - Awesome Mix Live!" that will be a part of 'Incredible Summer' at Epcot's American Gardens Theater.  This will run June 9 through August 19 running 5 times a day.

Stay tuned for future updates on the 'Guardians' coaster coming to Epcot.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

All in the Details: Sneak Peak of Toy Story Land Opening June 30

The countdown is on as Toy Story Land will be officially open in less than 60 days when it debuts on June 30 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Yesterday, we got several sneak peaks of the new 11-acre land including some special live looks inside the land on ABC's Good Morning America, The View, The Chew, and on Nightline. 

We got a full ride-through on the newest family coaster that will debut in the land in Slinky Dog Dash. Andy has used his Mega Coaster Play Kit to build the new family coaster in his backyard. Check out the full ride through below:

As announced a few weeks ago Wheezy will appear inside Toy Story Land during their ride on Slinky Dog Dash.

Yesterday, Walt Disney Imagineers shared them installing Wheezy and how they brought him to life in a sneak peak video on the Disney Parks Blog. At the end of the attraction, Wheezy will be singing, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” assisted by Mike (the tape recorder), who's provided him with a microphone, and Mr. Spell, who “texts” funny commentary. The friends are surrounded by a collection of toys, including a Rubik’s cube, a canister for a game called Pick-Up Snakes, toy wooden blocks spelling out F-U-N, and toy packages for an RC Car and a triangle puzzle game, all framed by a towering book, Mr. Pricklepants Songs for Singing. Check out the behind the scenes look below:

That's not all as we got our first up close look at the ride vehicles on Alien Swirling Saucers. At Alien Swirling Saucers, an attraction that's  been designed to look like a toy from Pizza Planet and placed in Andy's backyard next to his Buzz Lightyear’s Star Command playset, Aliens fly around in their toy flying saucers while “The Claw” appears overhead. As guests whirl around the toy planets and space stations as part of the game, they’ll swirl to the beat of a fun electronic space music soundtrack that includes eight songs that may sound familiar, but will be heard in a quirky way you’ve never experienced before. Guests will also see pizza details throughout the attraction, including pizza columns, a pizza space station and the Planet Pepperonia.

Entertainment in the land will include Sarge and the Green Army Man Drum Corps, who will march through the land several times a day and stop to play “Sarge Says” with guests, and other games with a larger-than-life Pixar ball and crayons. Guests also have the option to join in on their interactive boot camp to see if they have what it takes to become an official recruit in Andy’s Backyard.

Toy Story Land in Disney's Hollywood Studios opens June 30. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Just When Will Walt Disney World Get New Monorail Fleet?; Star Wars Resistance Animated Series to Debut This Fall

Just When Will Walt Disney World Get New Monorail Fleet?:

Over the last few years the Walt Disney World monorail fleet has seen its better days. Rumors began early this year when video surfaced that doors on the monorail were having trouble staying closed even one incident where Monorail Red was in movement. Then there was the sudden cancellation of the Magic Kingdom theater that was announced during last summer's D23 Expo which led to rumors that Disney would be using that money to purchase a new fleet of monorails. 

Rumors died down until a few weeks ago when WDW News Today reported that a new fleet had been ordered and were being built by Bombardier in Canada. Those rumors were quickly shut down as sources had said while Disney is in interested in purchasing new monorails for the resort to replace the current fleet that have been in operation since 1989, the fleet had not been ordered from Bombardier yet. They are planning on replacing them in time for Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary in 2021. 

That was until last night when, Disney Legend and former Imagineer Bob Gurr while speaking at an event stated that a new contract has in fact been drawn up with Bombardier and that the fleet is now in production despite not yet being announced. Gurr did say though that the fleet while they are being built are years away from delivery which would confirm what sources are saying that they won't be around until probably the 50th Anniversary. 

Now we wait until Disney officially confirms that a new monorail fleet at Walt Disney World. I expect that to be sometime next year most likely during the 2019 D23 Expo. 

Star Wars Resistance Animated Series to Debut This Fall:

Earlier this week, a brand new Star Wars animated series was announced to debut this Fall on Disney XD and the Disney Channel. The new series called, "Star Wars Resistance", will take us on the adventures of Kazuda Xiono, a young pilot recruited by the Resistance and tasked with a top-secret mission to spy on the growing threat of the First Order.

Featuring the high-flying adventure that audiences of all ages have come to expect from Star Wars, Star Wars Resistance — set in the time prior to Star Wars: The Force Awakens — will feature the beloved droid BB-8 alongside ace pilots, colorful new characters and appearances by fan favorites including Poe Dameron and Captain Phasma, voiced by actors Oscar Isaac and Gwendoline Christie, respectively. 

The series was created by renowned Lucasfilm Animation veteran Dave Filoni (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels); executive-produced by Athena Portillo (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels), Justin Ridge (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels) and Brandon Auman (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles); and art-directed by Amy Beth Christenson (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels). 

In addition to Isaac and Christie, the voice cast includes actors Christopher Sean (Days of Our Lives), Suzie McGrath (East Enders), Scott Lawrence (Legion), Myrna Velasco (Elena of Avalor), Josh Brener (Silicon Valley), Donald Faison (Scrubs), Bobby Moynihan (DuckTales), Jim Rash (Community), and Rachel Butera (Tammy’s Tiny Tea Time).

No official released date for 'Resistance' has been announced as of yet but as stated previously it will debut this Fall. After the ending to "Star Wars Rebels" this past winter I can't wait to see what Filoni brings to the table for "Star Wars Resistance."

Source: Star Wars

Free Dining is Back and is Now Available

Free dining for Walt Disney World this Fall has officially been released and you better get in touch quick if you want this amazing deal. Like last year, guests must book a minimum 5-day/6-night minimum at a select Walt Disney World Resort Magic Your Way package with a Park Hopper Option. Guests staying at a Value or Moderate Resort will receive a free Quick Service Dining Plan. Guests staying at select Deluxe resorts will get a free Basic Dining plan for their stay. 

Guests can book through July 7, 2018 but this offer does go by fast. It is for the following dates:

• August 20 through September 29
• November 24 through November 27
• December 7 through December 23, 2018

Resorts included are:

Value:

• All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports
• Pop Century
• Art of Animation Suites

Moderate:

• Caribbean Beach 
• Coronado Springs
• Fort Wilderness Cabins

Deluxe:

• Grand Floridian
• Old Key West
• Beach Club Resort & Villas
• Yacht Club
• Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Boardwalk Inn & Villas
• Saratoga Springs

The resorts that are excluded include:

• Campsites
• 3-bedroom villas
• Little Mermaid rooms at Art of Animation.

Book now before this amazing offer of free dining goes away. Guests can upgrade from a Quick Service to a Basic Dining Plan for a fee. 

New Infinity War Trailer; "Solo" Set to Premiere at Cannes Festival, and More

New 'Infinity War' Trailer Released:

We were greeted with a new mini "Avengers: Infinity War" trailer yesterday. In the trailer called "Chant" we see the Cap reunite with Bucky and we are asked, "Where will you be when it all ends?" Check it out below:

"Solo: A Star Wars Story" Set to Premiere at Cannes:
It was revealed that "Solo: A Star Wars Story" will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 15, 2018.

This will be the third Star Wars film to appear at the festival the first two being "Attack of the Clones" in 2002 and "Revenge of the Sith" in 2005. "Solo: A Star Wars Story" is directed by Ron Howard and will premiere in the United States on May 25, 2018.

"Toy Story 4" Will Hit Theaters in 2019:

The toys will be back officially next June. Toy Story 4 will officially be released on June 19, 2019 according to its Facebook page. The film will bring back Woody & Buzz and all the toys as they search for Bo Peep to reunite her with Woody.

The film will be written by Stephanie Folsom and directed by Josh Cooley. 

Sweet Spells to Close Next Week; Meet & Greet Cuts Coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom

Sweet Spells to Close Next Week for Good:

A few months ago it was rumored that Sweet Spells and its sweet and delicious treats at Disney's Hollywood Studios would close and a Toy Story Land merchandise shop would take its place. The major renovation on the site will begin on April 16 which means the last day of operation for Sweet Spells will be April 15. 

Reel Vogue will remain open while the renovation takes place. Once the work is complete on the new store, Beverly Sunset will be the go to location for Toy Story Land merchandise as the land itself will not have a storefront that sells merchandise besides carts that will carry themed-items from the land. 

The good news is select treats from Sweet Spells will be available at other locations within Disney's Hollywood Studios. Beverly Sunset once it opens will also sell some pre-packaged snacks. 

Source: WDW News Today

Meet & Greet Cuts Coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom:

Several fan favorite meet & greets at Disney's Animal Kingdom will be ending within the next few weeks. The first in Baloo and King Louie who meet with guests in the Upcountry Landing in Asia will stop meeting with guests after April 14. 

Over at Discovery Trails West near the Tree of Life, guests will be seeing the end of the meet & greet with Flik from "A Bug's Life." This meet & greet will end after Flik meet with guests for the final time on April 22. 

Source: WDW News Today

Breaking: Interactive Pandora Conservation Utility Suit Coming to Pandora: The World of AVATAR

Yes, the amazing robotic suits we saw in AVATAR are coming to Pandora - The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. The Pandora Conservation Initiative Utility Suit will make its debut inside the land on April 22. The Utility Suit was created in partnership between Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney Parks Live Entertainment, Michael Curry Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering.

It will be used to study wildlife, collect plant samples, and survive Pandora's terrain much like we saw in the film. Check out the video of the suit coming to life with the help of Walt Disney Live Entertainment's Tony Giordano, Robert King, and Laura Offerdahl.

Also, here is the video of the suit being tested in the parks:



The PCI Utility Suit will arrive just in time for Disney's Animal Kingdom 20th Anniversary. Be sure to check out the Times Guide for interaction with this amazing suit.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Morimoto Asia's Sakura Festival at Disney Springs; New Art Exhibition at American Adventure

Morimoto Asia's Sakura Festival Now at Disney Springs:

Through April 15, Morimoto Asia will celebrate the arrival of Spring with the Sakura Festival with a focus on the celebration of cherry blossoms. The event which kicked off a few weeks ago on March 15 features ticketed events, menu specials, and Instagram-worthy decor that showcase the pink blooms of the famed Japanese Sakura.

There are still four more events that guests can look forward to through April 15 including a Ramen Tasting. Here are the details on those four remaining events:

• Seas of Japan 101 (March 30, 2018; 4-6 p.m.; $45): Learn more about the seas of Japan and the delicacies that come from their waters. During this two-hour educational seminar, you’ll learn while tasting select menu items paired with sake.
• Morimoto Asia’s Guest Chef Series (April 3, 2018; 7-9 p.m.; $120): Take part in the inaugural event for this new series as the culinary talent from Morimoto Asia welcomes Chef Hitoshi Sugiura from Tokyo, Japan. The chefs will collaborate on a six-course Pan-Asian dinner, paired with wines from across the globe, for guests to enjoy.
• Ramen Seminar and Tasting (April 7, 2018; 12-3 p.m.; $36): Spend an afternoon learning about the many types of Asian noodles, then stick around to taste several varieties of ramen dishes.
• Matsuri Festival (April 15, 2018; 12-4 p.m.; $45 for guests ages 10 and up; children under 9 are free): Perfect for family fun, guests will have the chance to indulge in multiple street food stations, four beer and cocktail stations, and Japanese carnival games and activities suitable for guests of all ages.

There are also some amazing new menu items at Morimoto Asia while the event goes on they includeocally-brewed Crooked Can Sakura Kolsh, Cherry Blossom Martini, Blue Cherry Cocktail, Chilled Panacea Oysters, and a Sakura and Peach Bavarian Dessert. You can get more details on the event here.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Art Exhibition to Debut at Epcot's American Adventure:

This Summer, the American Heritage Gallery at The American Adventure will debut a brand new art exhibition called, "Creating Tradition: Innovation and Change in American Indian Art." 

"Creating Tradition: Innovation and Change in American Indian Art” is made possible through the collaboration of the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture (MIAC) in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) in Washington, D.C.
Among the featured artists with works on display are fashion designer Loren Aragon (Acoma Pueblo), noted doll maker Glenda McKay (Ingalik-Athabascan), and Juanita Growing Thunder (Assiniboine Sioux) from the Growing Thunder family of Montana.

As with past exhibits, artists will share their stories with interactive elements, by sharing the creative process and inspirations behind their works in their own words. An opening date was not announced but stay tuned for future updates.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Marvel Land Coming to Disneyland in 2020; Tickets on Sale Now for Not-So Scary and Very Merry Christmas Parties

Marvel Land Coming to Disneyland in 2020:

Back in July at the D23 Expo, Disney teased a Marvel Land coming to Disneyland. Very little details were revealed and we were just told to stay tuned for updates in the future. Today, just some of those details were revealed as a fully immersed Marvel Land will be coming to the park beginning in 2020. 

At Disneyland Resort, the new Super Hero-themed land will begin recruiting guests in 2020, with even more new experiences to follow. The Guardians of the Galaxy will be joined by Spider-Man and the Avengers in what will become a completely immersive Super Hero universe, furthering the evolution of Disney California Adventure park. This new land will be anchored by the popular Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, in the adjacent space that is currently occupied by “a bug’s land.” “It’s Tough to Be a Bug” closed March 19 to make way for this new heroic experience; the rest of the land will close in late summer.

This goes along with previously announced for Marvel-themed lands in Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Tickets Now on Sale for Not-So-Scary and Very Merry Christmas Parties:

As we begin the spring season today, we were reminded yesterday how quickly the seasons go by. Party dates for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party were officially announced along with tickets going on sale for each of the parties. 

Weeks ago it was rumored that Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party would start earlier than ever in the middle of August and yesterday those rumors were confirmed with the very first party date being announced as August 17. The rest of the dates are as follows:

• August 17, 24, 28 and 31
• September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, and 30
• October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, and 31

Tickets for the party will be $75 in advance and $85 if tickets are purchased the date of the party. 

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party will delight guests during the most wonderful time of year for 22 nights this year. Parties will begin November 8 and will run through most nights until December 21. Here is the full list of party dates:

• November 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30
• December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21

Tickets for the party will be $95 in advance and $105 if tickets are purchased on same day as the party. Guests can purchase tickets by calling 407-939-1872.

Source: Disney Parks Blog