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

First 'Last Jedi' TV Spot Airs; Final Candlelight Narrators Announced

First "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" TV Spot Airs:

The very first of what I'm sure will be many tv spots for "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" has aired. Just days after the trailer was released we got more dialogue out of Luke Skywalker as he asks Rey why she is there. We also got some new images in the tv spot.



"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" hits theaters December 15.

Final Candlelight Narrators Announced:

Two new narrators and two returning complete the list of celebrities for this year's Epcot Candlelight Processional. Disney Legend and actor Kurt Russell as well as Olympic Champion Laurie Hernandez will be reading at the processional for the first time. Meanwhile Jodi Benson and actress/comedian Ana Gasteyer will return this year as narrators. Here is the complete schedule for the Candlelight Processional which runs November 24 through December 30:

• Nov. 24- 26 – Laurie Hernandez – NEW!
• Nov. 27-28 – Matt Bomer – NEW!
• Nov. 29 – 30 – Ana Gasteyer
• Dec. 1-3 – Whoopi Goldberg
• Dec. 4-5 – Pat Sajak – NEW!
• Dec. 6-8 – Jodi Benson
• Dec. 9-11 – Kurt Russell – NEW!
• Dec. 12-14 – Warwick Davis – NEW!
• Dec. 15-17 – Trace Adkins
• Dec. 18-21 – Neil Patrick Harris
• Dec. 22-24 – CCH Pounder – NEW!
• Dec. 25-27 – Jaci Velasquez
• Dec. 28-30 – Chandra Wilson

The Candlelight Processional allows narrators to tell the story of Christmas along with a 50-piece orchestra and a massed choir. The show is performed 3 times nightly at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 p.m. at the American Gardens Theatre. 

*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Siemens and Disney to End Partnership; 2017 Candlelight Processional Dining Packages

Siemens and Disney to End Partnership:

Yesterday, it was reported that Siemens was pulling away its sponsorship away from Walt Disney World after a 12-year relationship. Today, it was made official with a statement release from Siemens. Siemens has sponsorships to two well-known attractions and shows in Epcot in Spaceship Earth and Illuminations: Reflections of Earth. Here is the statement:

“For the last 12 years, Siemens and The Walt Disney Company have enjoyed an exciting marketing and technology alliance that has brought tremendous visibility to the Siemens’ brand and joy to its employees,” said Siemens spokesperson Darren Sparks. “The Siemens/Disney sponsorship has evolved with the company’s changing portfolio since 2005 and has exceeded expectations. The sponsorship will reach its mutually-agreed upon end date October 2017. This successful relationship has truly been a fusion of creativity and innovation between the two organizations.”

It doesn't appear as a new sponsor will be named for either as Disney is trying to pull away from sponsorships from its attractions. This also makes sense since rumors have been swirling that a new nighttime spectacular will be replacing Illuminations: Reflections of Earth. We expect big announcements for Epcot in the coming weeks at the D23 Expo which occurs July 14-16 in Anaheim.

2017 Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Now Available:

Today, the 2017 Candlelight Processional Dining Packages were released and a tentative schedule for celebrity narrators were also released. Newcomers include Pat Sajak and CCH Pounder. Returning as one of the fan favorites include Neil Patrick Harris. This year's Candlelight Processional will run November 24 through December 30.

• Nov. 24- Dec. 3 – To Be Announced
• Dec. 4-5 – Pat Sajak
• Dec. 6-14 – To Be Announced
• Dec. 15-17 – Trace Adkins
• Dec. 18-21 – Neil Patrick Harris
• Dec. 22-24 – CCH Pounder
• Dec. 25-27 – Jaci Velasquez
• Dec. 28-30 – To Be Announced

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the America Gardens Theatre. Here is the information on the Processional Dining Packages:

As with last year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite restaurants in and near Epcot again this year like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and The Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort,** with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk. 

Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $35 plus tax per person for adults and $21 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $44 plus tax per person for adults and $15.50 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.

To book Candlelight Processional Dining Packages visit here or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Springs Black Friday Preview, "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer, and More

Disney Springs Black Friday and Saturday Preview:

Thanksgiving is next week and that means the holiday shopping season is fast upon us when Black Friday kicks it off. Disney Springs will open two hours earlier on both November 25 and 26, opening at 8 a.m. 

World of Disney and other familiar favorites will feature great deals while supplies last: a Vera Bradley “Midnight with Mickey” hipster bag for $24.99 at Marketplace Co-Op, Storm Trooper Action Figures for $14.99 at Star Wars Galactic Outpost, and a holiday wreath with lights for $16.99 at Disney’s Days of Christmas, just to name a few. 

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to buy tickets to see “La Nouba” by Cirque du Soleil, this could be it. Visit the Box Office on November 25 and purchase a ticket to the show – any category available – for just $39 plus tax. (Tickets can be used November 25, 2016 – December 16, 2017.)

Here is a full list of stores participating in the Black Friday weekend and some of the deals they will have:

American Threads – First 50 Guests receive a FREE Piko sweater with a purchase of $75 or more (one per Guest while supplies last). Plus, get $20 off every purchase of $100 or more. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

APEX by Sunglasses Hut – Save 60% off original prices of select styles. Offer valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Arribas Brothers – Receive free domestic shipping on purchases. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Basin – Get one free bath bomb with any purchase over $50 and 3 free bath bombs on purchases over $100. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Chapel Hats – Save 20% off entire store. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Characters in Flight – Save $10 on tickets purchased before 10:00 AM (weather permitting).

Cirque du Soleil Boutique – Save 50% off already discounted merchandise and 25% off ornaments and gift wrap. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Coca-Cola Store – Save 15% off purchases of $25-29.99; 20% off purchases of $30-34.99; 25% off purchases of $35 or more. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Columbia Sportswear – Save 25% on select styles and brands. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Curl by Sammy Duvall – Save up to 40% off on select merchandise and gift-with- purchase items throughout the store.

Dino-Store at T-REX – Get $10 off purchases of $50 or more and a free Build-A-Bear Workshop cinch with purchase of DINO Experience Bundle from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016. 

Edward Beiner – Save 25% off entire purchase. Not valid on Cartier and cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Happy Hound Kiosk – Receive a free Bow Wow magnet with every $20 purchase. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

havaianas – Save 30% off sale merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

House of Blues Gear Shop – Save 25% off regular price purchases before 1:00 PM and save $5 off $35 purchases. Offer only valid November 24 to November 25, 2016.

Filthy Rich Kiosk – Save 20% off all jewelry. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Ghirardelli Chocolate and Ice Cream Shop – Between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, enjoy a free coffee with a $4.95 or more purchase. Plus, get a free Intense Dark Mango Bar with a $20 or more purchase or a free 100-count mini caramel bag and thermal bag with $60 or more purchase. Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Kipling – Save 25% off select purchases. Offer only valid November 23 to November 27, 2016.

Fit2Run – First 10 Guests receive a free one-year membership to Club Fit2Run. Plus, enjoy special savings on select merchandise, including 50% off cold weather jackets and half zip ups and up to 70% off select sandals and running shoes. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Johnny Was – Save 25% off merchandise in the entire store. 

Johnston & Murphy – Save on men’s fashion and accessories, including up to 33% on select shoe styles, 40% off lowest ticketed price sweaters and up to 50% on select outerwear. Plus, all briefcases are $199.99; all scarves are buy one, get one free and all shirts and pants are buy one, get one half off.

LACOSTE – Save 20% to 30% off select items throughout the store. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

Levi’s – Save 40% off entire purchase. Offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Lilly Pulitzer – Spend $75 and receive one pair of free earrings, spend $150 and receive a free necklace or spend $500 and receive a free jewelry box. Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

LittleMissMatched – Get 50% off apparel and an additional 25% off clearance items. Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

L’Occitance en Provence – Luxury travel set $18 (with $45 purchase). Plus, receive an “Ultimate Black Friday Gift” free with any $145 or more purchase. Offer only valid November 23 to November 27, 2016.

Lucky Brand – Save 40% off purchases (excludes “rare finds”). Offer only valid November 24 to November 27, 2016.

Luxury of Time by Diamonds International – Enjoy free battery changes for watches up to 30-meter water resistance and free jewelry cleaning. Plus, scope out deals on select pieces! Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

MAC Cosmetics – Swing by Waterside park stage to see ballet performances in celebration of 2 new exclusive holiday kits: Nutcracker Sweet Plum Retro Matte Kit and Nutcracker Sweet Mineralize Kit (available while supplies last).

Melissa Shoes – Save 25% off all merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Origins – Scoop up Origins Superstar Sets for $65 ($130 value) and Origins Superstar Minis for $25 ($90 value). Available while supplies last. Offers only valid November 20 to November 25, 2016.

Orlando Harley-Davidson – Stop by for great deals on select styles, including 30% off men’s styles and logo T-shirts for $49. Plus, get a $10 duffle bag with the purchase of 4 Orlando Harley-Davidson tees! Offer only valid November 20 to November 28, 2016.

Pandora Jewelry – Receive a free bangle with a $125 purchase. Limitations apply. Offer only valid while supplies last November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Pop Gallery – From 8:00 AM to noon, save 20% off all purchases over $150 and an additional 30 to 50% off select merchandise. Some exclusions apply. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Rainforest Café Retail Village – Enjoy $10 off purchases of $50 or more. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Savannah Bee Co. – Receive a free jar of Whipped Honey with Passion Fruit with every purchase! Plus, spend $35 or more and receive a free gift set.

Sephora – Look for $10 deals throughout the store and limited-edition gift sets (exclusive to Sephora) for $25. Offers only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Shore – First 150 in-store Guests on November 25, 2016 will receive a secret savings percentage (between 10% and 30%) off their purchase. Plus, on November 25 and November 26, 2016, receive a free gift with a purchase of $300 or more.

Sound Lion – Save 15% off entire store. Offer only valid November 25 to November 26, 2016.

Sprinkles – Available for a limited time— the Black Velvet Cupcake—their deepest, darkest, most “chocolatey” cake topped with chocolate ganache. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

Sugarboo & Co. – Get 10% off purchases of $100-$199, 15% off purchases of $200-$299 and 20% off purchases $300 or more (discount applied to total purchase). Offers only valid November 25, 2016.

Sunglass Icon – Save 60% off original prices of select styles. Offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

Superdry – Buy 2 items, get 1 item free. Offer only valid November 25, 2016.

The Art of Shaving – Drop by for great deals on select kits! 

The LEGO® Store – Save up to 50% off while supplies last—offer valid only on November 25, 2016. Plus, get an exclusive snow globe with a $95 purchase—offer only valid November 25 to November 28, 2016.

Tommy Bahama – Limited time “Flip Side” offer: Receive a $50 award for every $150 you spend in store to use toward a future purchase. Offer only valid November 23 to November 28, 2016. Additional restrictions apply; see store for details.

TROPHY ROOM – Save 23% off select merchandise. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

TUMI – Save 25 to 40% off select collections. Offer only valid November 16 to November 27, 2016.

UGG – Save 30% off select women’s, men’s and kid’s styles. Offer only valid November 25 to November 27, 2016.

UNDER ARMOUR BRAND HOUSE – Get $25 off every $150 purchase until 11:00 AM—offer only valid November 25, 2016. Plus, get 25% select fleece jackets—offer only valid November 24 to November 28, 2016.

UNOde50 – Save 30% off all styles. Offer only valid November 25 to November 28, 2016.

Vince Camuto – Save 40% off entire purchase. Offer only valid November 26 to November 27, 2016.

United World Soccer – Save 50% off select jerseys.

Volcom – Save 40% off all Volcom brand merchandise. Offer only valid November 24 to November 25, 2016. 

All discounts and offers are subject to change without notice.

First "Beauty and the Beast" Trailer Released:

This morning on Good Morning America, the very first full trailer of "Beauty and the Beast" was released. Oh and will it bring up all your emotions of the animated classic. Emma Watson is the perfect Belle and just the little things that Disney does so perfectly. Here is the trailer:

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action re-telling of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs. “Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. The film stars: Emma Watson as Belle; Dan Stevens as the Beast; Luke Evans as Gaston, the handsome, but shallow villager who woos Belle; Oscar® winner Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s eccentric, but lovable father; Josh Gad as Lefou, Gaston’s long-suffering aide-de-camp; Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts.

The tale that is old as time in "Beauty and the Beast" will hit theaters March 17, 2017.

Anthony Mackie Announced as Final Narrator for Candlelight Processional:

"Avengers" star Anthony Mackie (Falcon) has been announced as the final narrator of Epcot's Candlelight Processional. He will be narrating on the dates of December 7-9. Here is the full list of narrators:

• Steven Curtis Chapman – November 25 to 27, 2016
• Neil Patrick Harris – November 28 to December 1, 2016
• Whoopi Goldberg – December 2 to 3, 2016
• Edward James Olmos – December 4 to 6, 2016
• Anthony Mackie – December 7 to 9, 2016
• Robby Benson – December 10 to 12, 2016
• Meredith Vieira – December 13 to 15, 2016
• Jim Caviezel – December 16 to 18, 2016
• Joe Morton – December 19 to 21, 2016
• Ming-Na Wen – December 22 to 24, 2016
• Jodi Benson – December 25 to 27, 2016
• Cal Ripken, Jr. – December 28 to 30, 2016

Epcot's Candlelight Processional begins next Friday, November 25 and will run through December 30, 2016. It is performed nightly three times a night at the American Gardens Theatre in the America Pavilion at Epcot.

More Celebrity Narrators Announced for Candlelight Processional; Disney Cruise Line Announces Early 2018 Ports & Itineraries

More Celebrity Narrators Announced for Candlelight Processional:

Three more celebrity narrators have been announced for this year's Candlelight Processional at Epcot. Added to the list which is almost complete are some well-known voices that you may have seen in some Disney animated classics. Ming-Na Wen (Mulan), Jodi Benson (Ariel), and Robby Benson (the Beast in "Beauty and the Beast") have all been added to the list of narrators for this year's processional. 

The only available dates now for the show with nobody announced is the 3-day gap from December 7-10. Here is the list of current narrators and when they will narrate the 2016 Epcot Candlelight Processional:

• Steven Curtis Chapman
  November 25 to 27, 2016
• Neil Patrick Harris
  November 28 to December 1, 2016
• Whoopi Goldberg
  December 2 to 3, 2016
• Edward James Olmos
  December 4 to 6, 2016
• Robby Benson
  December 10 to 12, 2016
• Meredith Vieira
  December 13 to 15, 2016
• Jim Caviezel
  December 16 to 18, 2016
• Joe Morton
  December 19 to 21, 2016
• Ming-Na Wen
  December 22 to 24, 2016
• Jodi Benson
  December 25 to 27, 2016
• Cal Ripken, Jr.
  December 28 to 30, 2016

The Epcot Candlelight Processional will take place November 25 through December 30, 2016. Show times are 5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 p.m. in the American Gardens Theater. 

Disney Cruise Line Announces Early 2018 Ports and Itineraries:

Today, we learned where Disney Cruise Line will be leaving from and going to from January through May 2018. This will include visiting Bonaire, a popular Caribbean destination located just north of the South American coast, for the first time ever. The Dutch Caribbean island is favored because of its arid climate and sunny weather. It is also known for its beautiful waters, reef-lined coast that lures water-sport enthusiast for scuba-diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.

Here is what early 2018 looks like aboard Disney Cruise Line:

San Juan to Southern Caribbean, including Bonaire
From San Juan, Puerto Rico, the Disney Wonder sets sail on three seven-night cruises to the Southern Caribbean. Departing Jan. 14, 21 and 28, each voyage offers a unique itinerary with four destinations and two days at sea. This limited-time engagement includes a combination of calls on Bonaire, Curacao, Aruba, St. Lucia, Martinique, Antigua and St. Kitts.

San Diego
Our return to San Diego in April and May includes seven Disney Wonder cruises to Baja and the Mexican Riviera, where you can enjoy world-famous beaches and snorkeling. Five-night sailings visit Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico, while two- and three-night cruises call on Ensenada. Friday departures for the two-night cruises offer the ultimate weekend getaway from San Diego.

Port Canaveral
With three ships in port and cruise lengths spanning three, four and seven nights, you have a full menu of options from Port Canaveral, Florida. Plus, every sailing includes a day at Castaway Cay. The Disney Fantasy continues to sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages, while the Disney Dream embarks on three- and four-night cruises to Nassau and Castaway Cay. From Feb. 8 through April 8, the Disney Wonder will alternate similar three-, four- and seven-night itineraries.

Miami
To kick off 2018, the Disney Magic continues sailing from Miami with four- and five-night voyages to the Bahamas, plus five-night Western Caribbean cruises. You’ll also visit Castaway Cay during every one of these sailings. Other Bahamian ports of call include Nassau and Key West, while a stop in Grand Cayman or Cozumel headlines the Western Caribbean itineraries.

Guests can begin booking these trips this Thursday October 27, 2016. More details on 2018 itineraries can be found here on the Disney Cruise Line website.

'Wreck-It-Ralph 2" Announced, 2016 Candlelight Processional Details, and So Much More

Walt Disney Animation Announces "Wreck-It-Ralph 2" for March 2018:

I'm gonna wreck it..... again. Walt Disney Animation today announced the sequel to "Wreck-It-Ralph" in "Wreck-It-Ralph 2" due out in theaters March 9, 2018. With the help of John C. Reilly (returning as Ralph) and directors Rich Moore and Phil Johnston made the announcement via a Facebook Live video. What's Ralph without his co-hort Vanellope which Sara Silverman returns as well.

So if Ralph wrecked the arcade what's he going wreck next. That answer is the internet. Here is what the directors had to say about the sequel that was finally officially announced:

“From the moment we started working on the first Wreck-It Ralph, we knew there were so many possibilities with these characters,” said Moore, who has been developing it since shortly after the release of the first film, and while directing this year’s critically-acclaimed hit Zootopia with Byron Howard. “This time, Ralph’s wrecking wreaks havoc on the Web—as only he can do. Characters we loved in the first film are back and we are ecstatic to be working with them—and the actors who voice them—once again.”

“The world of the internet is the perfect place to send Ralph and Vanellope,” said Johnston. “The scope and scale are so vast and the possibilities for comedy are endless.”

 “Ralph is a character very near and dear to my heart,” added Reilly. “I’m really looking forward to playing the big lug again. Making the first Wreck it Ralph was one of the most special experiences I’ve ever had and I’m really looking forward to bringing him back to life. So many kids I’ve met all over the world are excited to see him again too. They tell me all the time!”

With "Wreck-It-Ralph 2" now in the scheduled slot of March 9, 2018, last year's announced film "Gigantic" has been pushed back to a November 21, 2018 release date.

2016 Epcot Candlelight Processional Details Including Dining Packages:

We may be in the midst of summer but its never to early to talk about my favorite holiday, Christmas. There is nothing like the holidays in Disney World, especially the Candlelight Processional and Holidays Around the World in Epcot. Today, some of the narrators of the Candlelight Processional were announced as well as details on this year's dining packages. Here is what we know as of narrators so far. Whoopi Goldberg and Neil Patrick Harris will be returning to narrate including newcomer announced, Hall of Fame baseball player Cal Ripken Jr. Here is the scheduled list so far (subject to change):

• 11/25-27 – Steven Curtis Chapman
• 11/28-12/1 – Neil Patrick Harris
• 12/2-12/3 – Whoopi Goldberg
• 12/4-12/12 – TBA
• 12/13-12/15 – Meredith Vieira
• 12/16-12/18 – TBA
• 12/19-12/21 – Joe Morton
• 12/22-12/27 – TBA
• 12/28-12/30 – Cal Ripken, Jr.

The Candlelight Processional will be performed three times a night at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 p.m. at the American Garden Theatre. Dining packages for the processional are available on select nights and consist of a meal at either breakfast (new this year), lunch or dinner and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. 

Restaurants available for Candlelight Processional dining packages like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and the Garden Grill, breakfast, lunch, and dinner options at the Captain's Grille at Disney's Yacht Club, and breakfast and dinner options at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney's Boardwalk. 

The Dining Packages for breakfast will cost $27 plus tax per person for adults and $14 plus tax per person for children ages 3-9. For the lunch and dinner dining packages start at $47 plus per person for adults and $20 plus tax per person for children ages 3-9.

Reservations can be made by visiting the website here or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

New Disney PinQuest Adventure Begins Tonight at Magic Kingdom:

Guests can now have even more fun pin trading at Magic Kingdom. Beginning tonight, guests can go on a new scavenger hung pin trading adventure called, PinQuest. Here is what they had to say on the Disney Parks Blog about the excitement of the new adventure:

“We’re excited to introduce a pin trading-themed scavenger hunt this summer. For years, guests have told us how much they enjoyed pin pursuits once offered at Disney Parks. We applied their feedback and lessons we learned from other recent scavenger hunts to create this new activity. Ultimately, we wanted something that the whole family could enjoy during a summertime visit to Magic Kingdom Park," said Jeanne Lewis, merchandiser for Disney Pins.

First, guests must purchase the adventure kit which includes a lanyard to showcase your pins, a decoder medal for use with PinQuest pins, and a lanyard pouch to hold the map included with the adventure kit. The pouch will also hold the clue cards which are purchased separately from the kit. There are six different PinQuest clue cards.

Each clue cards holds a question that must be answered and shared with NavigatEar Cast Member in a particular location. Once solved, you can redeem the clue card ticket perforated at the bottom of the card for a PinQuest pin. You will continue the hunt until its completed by using the decoder medal. Guests will line up the arrows for each pin to determine the next location of the quest within Magic Kingdom. 

After purchasing all six clue cards and receiving stamps and pins from each location, guests should return to either Frontier Trading Post in Frontierland or Curtain Call Collectibles on Main Street, U.S.A. Once the adventure quest is completed guests may purchase the QuestEar completer pin. All items for the PinQuest will be available while supplies last. 

Ring in 2017 with Special Celebration at Disney's Contemporary:

Disney will be holding a ticketed event to ring in 2017 at Disney's Contemporary Resort called, "Disney Countdown to Midnight," a New Year's Eve celebration. Here are the details announced today on the Disney Parks Blog:

This ticketed event will take place December 31, 2016, beginning at 8 p.m. at the hotel’s Convention Center. There, guests can ring in 2017 in the Fantasia Ballroom by dancing to music spanning from the ’60s to today, and trying “best-of-the-best” bites and wine pairings from California Grill, Flying Fish, Cítricos and Narcoossee’s. Guests can also enjoy the group Alter Ego as they perform their extravagant music- and dance-filled revue, then stroll outside to catch a unique musical act playing songs of today with a retro twist. The event will be highlighted with Magic Kingdom Park fireworks viewing and a champagne toast. There will also be themed photo backdrops and props to help you capture the memories of the evening and receive a souvenir to commemorate the night. Plus complimentary transportation will be provided for select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

Tickets for the event and special evening are extremely limited. Guests with a resort reservation may begin purchasing tickets for the event beginning today. Reservations will be open to all guests beginning Monday, July 4. For more information or to  purchase tickets guests can visit DisneyWorld.com or by calling 407-939-3463.

Final List of Candlelight Narrators Revealed; Menken Confirms 3 New Songs for "Beauty and the Beast"; and More

Final List of Candlelight Narrators Revealed:

The holidays will be here before you know it and Epcot's Candlelight Processional has a final list of narrators. A partial list was released back in July, but today a final listing was released. New this year include "Grey's Anatomy" star Chandra Wilson and "Lost" Star Daniel Dae Kim have been added to the list among some other new celebrities as well. Here is the list:

• 11/27 – 11/29 — Gary Sinise
• 11/30 – 12/3 — Neil Patrick Harris
• 12/4 – 12/5 — Whoopi Goldberg
• 12/6 – 12/8 — Joe Morton
• 12/9 – 12/11 — Ana Gasteyer
• 12/12 – 12/14 — Meredith Vieira – NEW
• 12/15 – 12/17— America Ferrera – NEW
• 12/18 – 12/20 — Chandra Wilson – NEW
• 12/21 – 12/23 — Daniel Dae Kim – NEW 
• 12/24 – 12/26 — Edward James Olmos
• 12/27 – 12/28 – Blair Underwood
• 12/29 – 12/30 — Amy Grant

The Candlelight Processional is part of Holidays Around the World at Epcot's American Pavilion. The shows will take place at The American Garden Theater with shows each night at 5 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 p.m. The Candlelight Processional will run November 27 through December 30.

Alan Menken Confirms 3 New Songs for Live-Action "Beauty and the Beast":

Get excited, Disney fans! In an Entertainment Weekly interview, Oscar-winning composer and Disney Legend Alan Menken revealed three new songs for the live-action remake of the animated classic "Beauty and the Beast." Menken only revealed two of the songs in the interview, "Days in the Sun" and "Forever More." The composer of many Disney animated classics also revealed that no songs from "Beauty and the Beast" on Broadway made it into the new movie. 

Menken said the film is currently being edited and he will be scoring it next spring. "Beauty and the Beast" hits theaters March 17, 2017.

Descendents 2 in the Works for Disney Channel:

This summer's hit movie, "Descendents", on Disney Channel seems to be getting a sequel, Disney Channel announced. It was a ratings hit as 10.5 million viewers watched the film about the children of classic fairytale villains. The film also earned 3.3 million as it was released a few days early from its July 31 television release on the WATCH Disney App. Here is the announcement from Disney Channel:

“By almost every measure — domestically and globally — ‘Descendants’ has already become one of the biggest entertainment properties of the year and we’re eager to delve deeper into the unfolding mythology of Auradon and Isle of the Lost,” said Gary Marsh, president and CCO of Disney Channels Worldwide. “This kind of compelling, innovative storytelling, alongside our animated ‘Descendants: Wicked World’ shorts and unique transmedia campaign, continues to lay the groundwork for multiple franchise opportunities across virtually every line of business at the Walt Disney Company.”

The sequel is currently titled "Descendents 2" and has no set release date. 

Pixar Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Touching SuperCut:

Pixar is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and today it released a touching supercut of all its films leading up to its next film, "The Good Dinosaur" which premieres this Thanksgiving. The supercuts shows off our favorite characters and shows friendship from Buzz and Woody to new best friends Arlo and Spot. Here is the video:

To 20 years of friendship...and beyond! @TheGoodDinosaur is in theatres November 25. https://t.co/vnhXwrNzPj

— Disney•Pixar (@DisneyPixar) October 15, 2015

Prince Charming Getting a Live-Action Film; Tentative List of Narrators Announced for 2015 Candlelight Processional

Prince Charming Live-Action Film in the Works for Disney:

It's been a while since we talked about Disney making a live-action film, (it seemed they were announcing one every other day). Today, it was announced (although unofficially) that Prince Charming will get his moment in the limelight as Disney has hired Matt Fogel to write the script. 

Recent success of Maleficent in 2013 and most recently Cinderella have shown how Disney can successfully make live-action re-makes of its animated classics. With "Beauty and the Beast" showing promise that it will be a hit as well at the box office. 

As stated above this hasn't officially been announced by Disney but rumors are swirling that it could be a continuation of March's live-action film of the animated classic, "Cinderella." Another rumor is that it would be about Snow White's prince, Prince Charming or the both of them. Stay tuned for more details on another live-action film from Disney.

Tentative List of Narrators Announced for 2015 Candlelight Processional:

Recently we said guests would soon be able to book dining packages for this year's Candlelight Processional at Epcot. Guests can begin to book now for reservations at both lunch and dinner. Prices may vary when booking. As of last week narrators for the Candlelight Processional were not announced but today a tentative list was released including the return of Neil Patrick Harris for shows November 30 to December 3, 2015. 

Here is the remaining list of tentative narrators including Harris (guest narrators are subjuect to change):

• TBD - November 27-29, 2015
• Neil Patrick Harris- November 30 - December 3, 2015
• Whoopi Goldberg - December 4-5, 2015
• Joe Morton - December 6-8, 2015
• TBD - December 9-11, 2015
• Meredith Vieira - December 12-14,2015
• TBD - December 15-23, 2015
• Edward James Olmos - December 24-26, 2015
• TBD - December 27-28, 2015
• Amy Grant - December 29-30, 2015

There are three shows nightly from November 27 - December 30 at 5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 p.m. On December 6, show times will be at 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. only. Tune in for more details as the rest of guest narrators are announced. 

Disneyland Annual Passholders Can Preview Peter Pan's Flight Starting Tomorrow; Details on 2015 Disney World Candlelight Processional

Disneyland Annual Passholders Can Preview Peter Pan's Flight Beginning Tomorrow:

The refurbishment of Peter Pan's Flight at Disneyland is finally coming to an end and Disneyland Annual Passholders will be the first to be able to preview the new enhancements to the classic attractions. Beginning tomorrow, June 29 and Tuesday guests who are annual passholders will be able to preview the ride from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.

A valid Annual Passport must be presented at the attraction entrance for entry during these special AP hours (valid photo ID may also be required). May involve long wait periods and you should check your Passport blackout dates as Park admission is required. This as always is subject to restrictions and change without notice.

2015 Disney World Candlelight Processional Details:

Believe it or not we are less than 6 months away from Christmas and that can only mean the return of The Candlelight Processional at Epcot for the holiday season. This year's processional will take place nightly from November 27, 2015 until December 30, 2015. The Candlelight Processional is a special presentation presented at Epcot's American Gardens Theater, 3 times nightly telling the story of the birth of Jesus Christ as told by a celebrity narrator, a full 50-piece orchestra, and a mass choir. The list of the celebrity narrators has not yet been released. The times of the Candlelight Processional are 5 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 p.m. nightly.

The first two shows are always full and the third show will be full if the celebrity narrator is in high demand. Guests can ensure themselves a seat for the processional if they book the Candlelight Processional Dining Package. The package will include a lunch or dinner at one of Epcot's many restaurants. The meal will include a choice of appetizer, entree, dessert, and non-alcoholic, non-specialty beverage or a full buffet at buffet restaurants. Prices vary at each of the restaurants and do not include tax or gratuity. Park admission is required. The Disney Dining Plan is accepted but Quick Service Credits are not accepted. The Basic Disney Dining Plan or Deluxe Plan is 2 sit-down credits per guest and the Premium and Platinum Dining Plans only require 1 sit-down credit per guest. 

Guests can book soon by calling 407-WDW-DINE or by visiting this link when reservations can be made:  https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/epcot/candlelight-dinner-packages/.