More Details on Pandora - The World of Avatar from Destination D: Amazing Adventures

The panel on Pandora - The World of Avatar with James Cameron, Jon Landau, and Imagineer Joe Rohde just ended and the detail that has gone into this world is amazing. Here is what was shared during the panel.

Cameron and Rohde were in character for the panel making Pandora a real place and that the movie was a documentary. The world that is being built will be the Moara Valley in Pandora set 100 years after the movie has ended. The floating mountains that we have seen floating is caused by the magnetic force in the world called unobtanium. 

The entrance into Pandora will be called the Alpha Centauri Expeditions opening the world of Pandora to guests. The Na'vi people will be there to teach explorers and visitors about their culture and connecting them to the nature of Pandora. The world guests enter will have evidence of the human inhabitance and structures from the war on Pandora. 

Flight of Passage will allow guests to link up with Banshee bonding them in an almost virtual reality ride experience. The journey will take guests around the planet swooping and diving in a majestical flight through waterfalls, islands, and more. Guests will be wearing 3D goggles and as they straddle the seat for the ride Cameron said guests should hold on tight for the E-ticket attraction. It will be flying right of passage guided by the Na'vi so guests don't get eaten. It will provide a majestic and magical flight through Pandora.

They gave more details on both Wind Traders and the Santu'li Canteen. The Wind Traders travel the world to trade, keep language united, and to share news. At the Santu'li Canteen guests will enjoy food that is completely unique, "alien cuisine" as Rohde called it. The food will not be 3 feet long like the Na'vi eat it will adapt to portions that humans are use to Rohde also stated. 

They finally got into the bioluminescent plants the guests will be able to interact with just by touch. The world will light up just after sunset where it will reach the mountains to the forest right down to the paving that we walk on. It will be like walking on clouds of light. They then moved onto the Na'vi River Journey which sounds like it will be amazing at night. 

Rohde said it will be a "beautiful, lyrical, musical" attraction that is more relaxing then what guests will experience with Flight of Passage. In the ride guests will be greeted by the The Shaman of Songs, an amazing musical Na'vi that sings a song that makes the forest react to her with stunning lights and sounds. The forest has its own conscious that is called "Eywa" which is almost like a "biological internet." Attendees got a preview of the Shaman of Songs which was released to the public shortly after. Here it is:

It sounds like the Na'vi will not be wandering around the park like originally thought just in the attractions. Pandora sounds amazing including both attractions in the Flight of Passage and the Na'vi River Journey. I said two months ago when I got back Animal Kingdom at night was amazing without Pandora, but when it does open hands down I'm not sure anything will be able to compare to it. Pandora - The World of Avatar opens Summer 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Major Announcements from First Panel with Bob Chapek at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures

We all expected major announcements this weekend and they started off early at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures with a panel with Walt Disney Parks & Resorts chairman Bob Chapek. The first announcement was that Pandora - The World of Avatar will open at Disney's Animal Kingdom in Summer 2017. I am sure we will get even more details on the new land tomorrow with James Cameron, Jon Landau, and Joe Rohde.

Chapek revealed that the scaffolding has recently been removed from the bridge that will connect Pandora with the rest of the park (by Tiffins) as seen above in the picture. The bridge will serve as an entrance to the base camp of Alpha Centauri Expeditions, the eco-tour group that is preparing Pandora for future explorers and adventure seekers. 

Also shared were three new concept images of inside the land for the Santu'li Canteen (a quick service restaurant inside Pandora), Windtraders (a store), and Pongu Pongu ( a bar with specialty drinks). 

Santu'li Canteen will be the main restaurant inside Pandora - The World of Avatar and will feature Na'vi art and cultural items.

Windtraders will be where travelers find Na'vi cultural items, toys, science kits, and so much more.

Finally, Pongu Pongu will be a specialty drink location that will have a design that is as eclectic as its Expat owner.

New Concept Art of Star Wars Land; "Episode 8" Scenes to be added to Star Tours:

While no new details were given on Star Wars Land coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios in the future. We did get our first look at a concept image of Star Wars Land at night. An X-wing soars into Star Wars Land as the new land lights up the night. Check it out below:

Also announced were scenes from "Episode 8" of  Star Wars will be added to Star Tours: The Adventure Continues next year at both Disney's Hollywood Studios and at Disneyland.

Other Hollywood Studios news that isn't Star Wars-related and its a big one is that Hollywood Studios's version of Tower of Terror will not be getting a Guardians of the Galaxy remake.

Big Transformations Coming to Epcot:

Big changes will be coming to Epcot in the future, no details however were announced. Chapek just said that Epcot, "will stay true to the original vision." The future changes will be more Disney, more relevant, timeless, and more family. He challenged the creative team to "dream big" on Epcot.

That's all from this morning opening panel at Destination D: Amazing Adventures. Stay tune throughout the weekend for more breaking news.

D23 Announces Lineup of Events for 2017; MagicBand 2 Debuts at Destination D

D23 Announces Lineup of Events for 2017:

Today D23, the Official Disney Fan Club, announced its lineup of events for 2017. Of course it will include the return of the 2017 D23 Expo, a celebration of the 35th Anniversary of Epcot, and so much more. Check out what's in store for 2017 for D23 members and fans:

SCREENINGS ON THE DISNEY STUDIO LOT AND AT WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT: Throughout the year, D23 will once again offer special screenings on both coasts of classic Disney favorites, including Tangled, Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl, and more. D23 will also screen The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh exclusively for members in Orlando. Just in time for back-to-school, D23 will celebrate Disney Afternoon favorites such as DuckTales, Gummi Bears, and Chip ’n Dale Rescue Rangers, holding a screening event on the Studio lot with special guests, picture spots, and more surprises. And D23 Members will be invited to the lot for a spook-tacular Halloween screening event that will include a special exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives.

THE OFFICIAL WALT DISNEY STUDIOS TOUR—PRESENTED BY D23: D23 Gold Member-exclusive tours of the historic Studio lot return, including a look inside the Walt Disney Archives and a tour of Walt Disney’s office suite. The 2.5-hour tours offer fans a unique perspective on historic moments from Disney films, television shows, and theme parks.

D23 BEHIND-THE-SCENES EXPERIENCES: In January, D23 will host the first of several behind-the-scenes events at unique Disney locations, featuring special guests and gifts tailored to each experience. Following a year where members explored the Ink & Paint Department on The Walt Disney Studios lot and took an after-hours tour of the Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror at Walt Disney World Resort, there will be more surprises in store for members in 2017.

D23’S LUNCH WITH A DISNEY LEGEND: Beginning in February, D23 brings back these exclusive luncheons with Disney luminaries, where members will meet Disney Legends and hear their fascinating stories. The events return to both Walt Disney World Resort and The Walt Disney Studios, where members have already dined with Legends such as animator Glen Keane, Imagineering Ambassador Marty Sklar, and voice talent Kathryn Beaumont.

ADVANCE SCREENINGS: Members can expect a host of exclusive, advance screenings of what are sure to be some of 2017’s most popular releases from The Walt Disney Studios. This year, D23 Members saw previews of Zootopia, The Jungle Book, and Finding Dory in cities across the county, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Portland, and Seattle. Plus, D23 Members in Los Angeles attended the red carpet premieres of Moana and Pete’s Dragon. For those guests who don’t live in the cities where movies are screened, D23 Gold Members across the country will be selected at random to receive complimentary movie passes, which will be included in issues of Disney twenty-three,D23’s quarterly publication.

D23 DISNEY FANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION—EPCOT 35: D23 heads to the parks in honor of Epcot’s 35th anniversary. Epcot, originally announced as the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow by Walt Disney in 1966, has continued to grow and evolve over the years. D23 Members can look forward to a treasure trove of video, illustrations, and photographs to complement a host of stories, both new and old, in honor of this landmark. Plus, D23 will hold a special member event at Walt Disney World Resort in honor of the anniversary.

SIGNATURE EVENTS: D23 will bring back foodie favorite Sip & Stroll during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and members on the West Coast will get to join the fun, as D23 debuts a new event in conjunction with Disneyland Resort’s culinary festivities. And after giving members a look inside the Walt Disney Birthplace in Chicago in 2016, D23 will return to the Windy City next year to see the tremendous progress made on the home’s restoration. Expect special holiday events on both the East and West Coasts to make the season bright.

MEMBER MIXERS AROUND THE COUNTRY: After mixing and mingling at complimentary gatherings in Seattle, Chicago, Bridgewater, N.J., and even at San Diego Comic-Con, D23 will bring more mixers to cities around the country in 2017.

D23 EXPO 2017: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event returns. It’s D23’s biggest event of the year, as all of Disney’s wonderful worlds come together once again July 14–16, 2017, at the Anaheim Convention Center for three magical days of once-in-a-lifetime live performances, star-studded presentations, exclusive collectibles, and more.

Dates, ticketing information, and more D23 events will be announced throughout the year. Full details on D23’s lineup of 2017 special events can be found on the Fan Club’s website at www.D23.com/events. All events and dates are subject to change.

MagicBand 2 Debuts at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures:

Today, during the preview event for D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures, which begins tomorrow, the MagicBand 2 debuted. According to WDW News Today, the new version of the MagicBand will be mailed to Annual Passholders beginning next month. In January 2017, resort guests will begin receiving the new MagicBand 2 as well. Retail versions of the new MagicBand 2 will be released along with new accessories such as the new MagicBand 2 keychains.

The new MagicBand 2 as rumored does have a removable puck which can be removed with a screwdriver. Today, guests at Destination D: Amazing Adventures were the very first to receive the new MagicBand 2 that was specially made for the event. Check it out:

Photo Credit: WDW News Today

What do you think of the MagicBand 2? 

Tune in all weekend for news coming out of D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures as I am sure this is just the beginning of a busy weekend.

D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures Speculation?

Next weekend is D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures at Walt Disney World. I am expecting it to be quite busy with some announcements on the parks. Today, I am going to highlight the event where we can hear some announcements such as the opening of Pandora - The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. 

First on Saturday morning right after the welcome we will hear from Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Here is the description of the panel:

Saturday, November 19 at 9:10 a.m. — A Conversation with Bob ChapekBob Chapek, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, will sit down with D23’s Jeffrey Epstein to share his insights on the parks.

While this will be very early in the event, Disney could catch us off guard with an announcement early. I would expect this will just be a highlight of what's is new in the parks that has already opened and not anything major for the future of the parks which I expect to come later during another panel. I would still stay tuned for this one as we should always expect the unexpected.

There will be several other panels that day but nothing of potential for announcements of the parks. There will be a special announcement at 2 p.m. from Walt Disney Studios that I expect we will hear some new movie news.

On Sunday, there are three panels that will be potential for some Disney World announcements. First up will be the "New Walt Disney World Adventures" panel in the morning. Here is the description for that panel:

9:20 a.m. — New Walt Disney World Adventures

Get an insider’s glimpse into the latest experiences across Walt Disney World Resort with behind-the-scenes looks at new entertainment—featuring Walt Disney World Resort Ambassadors Caitlin Busscher and Nathaniel Palma, Entertainment Show Director Tom Vazzana, and Imagineer Wyatt Winter!

Here is where I expect to hear some breaking announcements. One, I expect that if they are giving a special preview of Rivers of Light later that night, I expect to hear some kind of announcement when they will debut the new nighttime spectacular to the public. 

Also, here is where I expect there to be any Marvel announcements for inside the parks whether Guardians of the Galaxy is coming to Hollywood Studios for the rumored re-theming of Rock N' Roller Coaster or in Epcot at Ellen's Energy Adventure. I am also hoping for some news on Toy Story Land and Star Wars Land in this panel.

The second panel that I expect to definitely here some announcement will be later in the morning where we will be hearing new details on Pandora - The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Here creators James Cameron and Jon Landau along with Imagineer Joe Rohde will reveal new details.

Concept Art for Na'vi River Journey

11:05 a.m. — Pandora – The World of AVATARAVATAR creators James Cameron (writer, director, producer) and Jon Landau (producer) and Imagineer Joe Rohde unveil new details about the immersive, 12-acre land coming soon to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Here I expect to hear new details on both new attractions in Avatar: Flight of Passage and the Na'vi River Journey. I also am speculating that we will be hearing an opening date for the new 12-acre land that is expected to open in 2017. 

Finally, there has been much speculation about the about Rivers of Light forever, Destination D will be holding a in-park gathering at the end of the event. This is where rumors have been swirling that D23 members will get an exclusive first look at the new nighttime spectacular. 

What are you hoping is announced during D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures next weekend?

More Rumors on Rivers of Light Opening Date; Behind the Scenes Look at New Spaces Aboard Disney Wonder

More Rumors on Rivers of Light Opening Date:

Just last week we discussed how guests attending Destination D: Amazing Adventures could be one of the first to see Rivers of Light at Animal Kingdom. The discussion has been gaining strength on when the show will debut to the public. Today, WDW News Today put more fuel on that fire according their sources at least. 

While the rumor to attendees of Destination D seem to be getting a preview on November 20 at the end of the event, according WDWNT now Disney is eying a Rivers of Light debut on November 18 just two days before the special viewing for Destination D attendees. Of course none of this is set in stone. As we all know it is now almost 6 months as to when this new nighttime spectacular was set to originally debut.

Is the light finally being lit at the end of the tunnel? Could we finally be seeing this new nighttime spectacular that is expected to be one of the best if not the best nighttime show Disney has ever created. If the rumors are true we should be hearing from Disney very, very soon.

Behind the Scenes Look at New Spaces Aboard the Disney Wonder:

The Disney Wonder is on its way back from its 6-week transformation in Cadiz, Spain. The Disney Parks Blog got a sneak peak look at all the new venues and experiences aboard the ship. The unveiling of theses new experiences will debut on the November 10 sailing from Galveston, Texas. Here is the video below:

Rumors About Rivers of Light Continue to Gain Strength; First Look at Stargazer Lounge Coming to Planet Hollywood

Rumors About Rivers of Light Continue to Gain Strength:

Rumors about Animal Kingdom's yet to debut new nighttime spectacular in Rivers of Light are gaining steam. WDW News Today is reporting that Rivers of Light might be seen exclusively first by attendees of Destination D: Amazing Adventures next month. With the schedule being released yesterday it was noticed that towards the end of Destination D, there will be an optional in-park gathering that takes place at 8 p.m. Originally park admission was required, but now the schedule has been updated to show that it won't be required and details on the in-park gathering are forthcoming.

Even more interesting is Animal Kingdom closes at 7:30 p.m. on November 20 where every other night the park closes at 8:30. Rumors have been swirling for months on Rivers of Light since it was delayed last April. No updates have been given although last week Disney did accidentally leak some info on dining packages for the nighttime spectacular. Although it was quickly pointed out the dates which some were thinking were for May 2017 were actually believed for the details for Rivers of Light original debut.

Could we soon be hearing details on the official debut of Rivers of Light finally? Will Destination D attendees next month actually be the first guests to see the new nighttime spectacular? It sure sounds like it, we will just have to wait and see next month. Destination D: Amazing Adventures takes place November 19-20 at Disney's Contemporary Resort.

First Look at Stargazer Lounge Coming to Planet Hollywood Observatory in Disney Springs:

The new Planet Hollywood Observatory inside Disney Springs will have completely new theming when it opens later this year. It will still feature stars from the big screen but the big focus will be on the stars in the sky, as the restaurant completes its transformation into a turn-of-the-20th-century observatory.

 Food and drink menus for the restaurant will be revealed soon. Guests can expect more famous movie memorabilia, video screens, cutting edge music, and a store that will feature themed merchandise. The restaurant will feature the Stargazer Lounge where guests will find signature craft cocktails with names that reflect the planets and space travel.

The Disney Parks Blog gave us a sneak peak at two of those cocktails in The Observatory and the Sparkling Sputnik. The Observatory is a sweet sip with Stoli vodka, tangy Limoncino Bottega, Monin  Peach Tea,  and an infusion of bubbles from Maschio Prosecco. The Sparkling Sputnik combines prosecco, sparkling water, fresh lime juice, and fragrant mint leaves. 

First Teaser & Poster of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Released, Schedule for Destination D, and More

First Teaser & Poster of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Released:

Today, excitement arose with not only a new poster but the very first teaser of "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" were released by Marvel. The film is the sequel to the hit film Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy." The newest chapter of the hit film will soar into theaters May 5, 2017.

Here is the poster:

The trailer is just over 1 minute and 30 seconds long and features the song "Hooked on a Feeling" that was featured in the first film. Here it is:

Obviously. #GotGVol2 pic.twitter.com/NwuaCIYqcd

— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) October 19, 2016

Full Schedule for Destination D: Amazing Adventures Released:

The full schedule for Destination D: Amazing Adventures has been released. The D23 event that takes place next month at Disney's Contemporary Resort takes place November 18-20. The main event though takes place on Saturday and Sunday. 

The main events look to be a special announcement from Walt Disney Studios on Saturday, what's new at Walt Disney World on Sunday morning, as well as the Pandora - The World of Avatar panel that takes place just after the New Walt Disney World Adventures panel. Here is the full schedule:

Friday, November 18

10 a.m.–6 p.m. — Registration Open
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—East Registration

11:30 a.m.–6 p.m. — “Walt’s Great Adventures” Exhibit Open
Walt Disney Archives Exhibit
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—Olympus A & B

2–8 p.m. — Mickey’s of Glendale Shopping Open
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—Sorcerer’s Apprentice Room

Saturday, November 19

7 a.m –1 p.m. — Registration / Guest Services Open
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—East Registration

7–9 a.m. — “Walt’s Great Adventures” Exhibit Open
Walt Disney Archives Exhibit
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—Olympus A & B

7 a.m.–5 p.m. — Mickey’s of Glendale Shopping Open
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—Sorcerer’s Apprentice Room

8:15–9 a.m. — Doors Open to Fantasia Ballroom
General Admission Seating

9 a.m — Welcome!

9:10 a.m. — A Conversation with Bob ChapekBob Chapek, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, will sit down with D23’s Jeffrey Epstein to share his insights on the parks.

9:50 a.m. — A Look Back at Walt Disney’s True-Life AdventuresJoin film producer Don Hahn and Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline on an expedition through the landmark True-Life Adventure series, which earned the Disney Studio eight Academy Awards®!

10:45–11 a.m. — Break

11 a.m. — Albert Schweitzer, Harper Goff, Bill Evans, and “The Wonderland of Nature’s Own Design”Welcome to Adventureland! Disney Legend and Imagineering ambassador Marty Sklar presents a tour through the earliest concepts for the themed realm and how Harper Goff, Morgan “Bill” Evans, and other legendary designers brought Walt Disney’s vision to life.

12–2 p.m. — Afternoon Break
Walt Disney World Resort restaurants will be open, and snack carts will available. Please note that all seating in the ballroom will be cleared. No reserved seating upon return.

12–2 p.m. — “Walt’s Great Adventures” Exhibit Open
Walt Disney Archives Exhibit
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—Olympus A & B

1:30–2 p.m. — Doors Open to Fantasia Ballroom
General Admission Seating

2 p.m. — A Special Announcement from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

2:05 p.m. — Disney Adventurelands Around the WorldSet off on a journey through exotic realms at Disney theme parks around the globe, as Imagineers Tony Baxter, Jason Grandt, and Luc Mayrand explore “Adventurelands” from Florida to Shanghai.

2:45 p.m. — Tales from the Jungle CruiseFans of “the backside of water” unite! Discover the legendary history of the world-famous attraction with a panel of experts and designers, including archivist Justin Arthur and Imagineers Alex Grayman, Chris Merritt, and Wyatt Winter.

3:30–3:45 p.m. — Break

3:45 p.m. — Disney’s Polynesian Resort 45th AnniversaryFrom tropical hideaways to enchanting entertainment, celebrate the spirit of aloha as D23 looks back at 45 years of the classic South Pacific-themed getaway.

4:40 p.m.— MOANA: Building a LegendFor centuries, the greatest sailors in the world masterfully navigated the vast Pacific, discovering the many islands of Oceania. But then, 3,000 years ago, their voyages stopped for a millennium—and no one knows exactly why. Screenwriter Jared Bush (co-director/co-screenwriter, Zootopia) shares how that question became the jumping-off point for the story of Moana, and presents exclusive footage from the film.

5:30–7:30 p.m. — Evening Break

7:30 p.m. — An Evening at Disney’s Polynesian Village ResortJoin us for a special celebration of the 45th anniversary of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

10 p.m. — Conclusion of today’s adventures.

Sunday, November 20

7 a.m.–1 p.m. — Guest Services Open
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—East Registration

7–9 a.m. — “Walt’s Great Adventures” Exhibit Open
Walt Disney Archives Exhibit
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—Olympus A & B

7 a.m.–5 p.m. — Mickey’s of Glendale Shopping Open
Sorcerer’s Apprentice Ballroom

8:15–9 a.m. — Doors Open to Fantasia Ballroom
General Admission Seating

9 a.m. — It All Started with a MapDiscover details on why and how Disney theme park maps have changed over time with historians Kevin Neary and Susan Neary, two co-authors of Maps of the Disney Parks: Charting 60 Years from California to Shanghai (Disney Editions, 2016).

9:20 a.m. — New Walt Disney World AdventuresGet an insider’s glimpse into the latest experiences across Walt Disney World Resort with behind-the-scenes looks at new and upcoming entertainment!

10:05–10:20 a.m. — Break

10:20 a.m. — Magic Journeys: 45 Years of Walt Disney World AdventuresAs we celebrate the 45th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, join Imagineers Jason Grandt and Alex Wright for a nostalgic journey through some of the Vacation Kingdom’s most unique and fondly remembered adventures!

11:05 a.m. — Pandora – The World of AVATARAVATAR creators James Cameron (writer, director, producer) and Jon Landau (producer) and Imagineer Joe Rohde unveil new details about the immersive, 12-acre land coming soon to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

12–2 p.m. — Afternoon Break
Walt Disney World Resort restaurants will be open and snack carts available. Please note that all seating in the ballroom will be cleared. No reserved seating upon return.

12–2 p.m. — “Walt’s Great Adventures” Exhibit Open
Walt Disney Archives Exhibit
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center—Olympus A & B

2 p.m. — The Art and Adventures of Marc DavisFrom Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room to Pirates of the Caribbean, discover the adventurous artwork of artist and animator Marc Davis with Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Production Designer Chris Merritt, who is co-authoring a new book on the Disney Legend.

3:05 p.m. — The Imagineering AdventureIn this two-part session, discover how Imagineers bring adventurous Disney experiences to life, with an in-depth look at attractions from Indiana Jones Adventure with Disney Legend Tony Baxter, to Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, with Shanghai Disneyland Portfolio Creative Executive Luc Mayrand.

4:15–4:30 p.m.      Break

4:30 p.m. — Guiding Animals Through ChangeWith brand-new evening experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, how does one prepare animals for changes to the nighttime ambience of the park, and how does one know if these animals are happy with the changes? Animals, Science and Environment Vice President Dr. Mark Penning will talk you through the process they followed and share stories of the great care our animals get.

4:55 p.m. — Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Evolving a New Species of Theme ParkImagineer Joe Rohde shares the origins and incredible evolution of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, from early concepts to new experiences to be discovered at the park!

6 p.m. — Farewell

 6–8 p.m. — Evening Break

8 p.m. — In-Park Gathering (Optional)Walt Disney World Resort theme park admission required.
Details forthcoming.

9:30 p.m. — Conclusion of Destination D’s amazing adventures.

A printed event program will be distributed to attendees upon check-in.

Wilderness Explorer VIP attendees will receive a separate agenda with event details soon.

*Please be advised: All schedules, events, and merchandise are subject to change without notice. For the enjoyment of all attendees, access in and out of the Fantasia ballroom may be limited during presentations.

First Look at 'Goofy's Festive Fiasco' Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom for MVMCP:

We are fast approaching the holiday season inside Disney Parks with the very first Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party just three weeks away on November 9. Today, we got our first look at the special Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card that will be exclusive for this year's party. This year's card will feature Goofy and be called, 'Goofy's Festive Fiasco.'

This year's card "celebrates the glorious holiday chaos created by Goofy as he attempts to decorate for the season," according to Imagineer Jonathan Ackley. The card will be available at the Firehouse on Main Street, USA where the game begins. Additional cards can be purchased at select merchandise locations throughout the park. 

Get Adventurous With Destination D Merchandise; Jon Favreau & Disney Making Re-Imagined "Lion King"

Get Adventurous With Destination D Merchandise:

We are less than 2 months away from Destination D23: Amazing Adventures at Disney World. Today, we got a sneak peak at some of the exclusive merchandise that will be available at the event. The exclusive merchandise will be available at Mickey of Glendale's in their pop-up tent at the event. Here is just some of the merchandise we can look forward:

Jingle Cruise 12 Days of Christmas Mystery Collection: An “all-gnu” pin collection celebrating the holidays as only the wild Jungle Cruise Skippers can! Each box contains one randomly selected pin. (There are 12 different pins in all.)

Jingle Cruise 4th Annual White Elephant Gift Exchange T-Shirt: Arriving just in time for the third fourth annual celebration! Wear this festive 100-percent cotton tee to your office party… or save it for next year’s re-gifting!

Jungle Navigation Company T-Shirt: Official 100-percent cotton company apparel designed and approved by Alberta Falls of the Jungle Navigation Company.

S.E.A. (Society of Explorers and Adventurers) Pins: Detailed replicas of the actual pins worn by generations of elite members of S.E.A.

S.E.A. (Society of Explorers and Adventurers) T-Shirt: Proper—100-percent cotton—garb for your own legendary explorations and adventures.

Tickets for Destination D: Amazing Adventures are still available for the event that takes place November 19 and 20. Some of the amazing presenters at the even will include Walt Disney Parks & Resorts President Bob Chapek, James Cameron, Jon Landau, Joe Rohde, Marty Sklar, Jared Bush, and Tony Baxter. Also Walt Disney Archives will also have an exhibit sharing the adventures of Walt Disney. Destination D: Amazing Adventures will take place at Disney's Contemporary Resort. 

Jon Favreau & Disney Making Re-Imagined "Lion King":

News broke this morning when Jon Favreau and Disney released they would be making re-imagined (live-action) version of the 1994 Disney animated classic in "The Lion King." I couldn't be more excited for this film. This follows Favreau's groundbreaking technology hit in "The Jungle Book" which made $965.8 million worldwide at the box office. 

"The Lion King builds on Disney’s success of reimagining its classics for a contemporary audience with films like Maleficent, Cinderella, and The Jungle Book. The upcoming Beauty and the Beast, starring Emma Watson as Belle, is already one of the most anticipated movies of 2017. Like Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King will include songs from the animated film. Disney and Favreau are also in development on a sequel to The Jungle Book. No release date has been announced for either film." - Walt Disney Company

"The Lion King" is one of Disney's biggest animated film's of all time making $968.8 million at the box office worldwide, including $422.8 million domestically. My excitement this morning was overwhelming as "The Lion King" is my favorite Disney film besides of course "Toy Story." My first favorite character will always be Simba. I can't wait to see this film.

 

New Details Revealed for D23 Destination D, Disney's Wedding Pavilion Getting a New Look, and More

New Details Revealed for D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures:

D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures Presented by Ethan Allen | Disney is November 19 and 20 at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Today, we learned new details including that James Cameron and John Landau will join Imagineer Joe Rohde in revealing new details on the new immersive, 12-acre land in Pandora - The World of Avatar, that is scheduled to open next year at Disney's Animal Kingdom. The event will also include a conversation with Chairman of Parks and Resorts, Bob Chapek (we just may get an update on Star Wars Land/Toy Story Land). 

Cameron, Landau, and Rohde will be joined by Disney Legends Marty Sklar and Tony Baxter; Walt Disney Imagineers Chris Merritt, Jason Grandt, and Wyatt Winter; Producer Don Hahn (The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast); and Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline. 

Guests attending the event will also get an advance exclusive look at Disney's "Moana" from Moana screenwriter Jared Bush (co-writer/co-director of Disney's Zootopia). 

The weekend event will take place in the convention center at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Tickets, currently on sale, are $190 each for D23 Gold and Gold Family Members. Tickets are also available to D23 General Members for $250 per ticket. All guests will receive a special gift created exclusively for the event, and attendees are guaranteed seats at all panels and presentations. Mickey’s of Glendale, the famed Walt Disney Imagineering store, returns with a pop-up shop at the event for attendees, featuring a selection of exclusive Walt Disney Imagineering merchandise as well as limited-edition pins, apparel, and collectibles themed to the event.

Further details about the program and tickets for D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventurespresented by Ethan Allen | Disney can be found at D23.com/Events. Additional details about the schedule will be shared in the coming months.

Disney's Wedding Pavilion Getting a New Look to Debut Early 2017:

The Ever After Blog by Disney Weddings revealed today that the wedding pavilion in Disney World will be receiving a new look that will debut early 2017. Here is what they said about the new enhancements:

"It will be receiving a new look very soon, while still maintaining all the magic and splendor our Guests have come to know and love (like the stunning view of Cinderella Castle). The new décor will feature an elegant, neutral color palette and shimmering crystal chandeliers. Brand new furnishings, wall coverings, and carpeting round out the enhancements and bring new life into the interior. We can’t wait for you to experience the magic for yourself."

Here is the concept art for the Wedding Pavilion:

They expect the new enhancements to be completed by the week of January 14, 2017. (Note: Date and rendering of the enhancements are subject to change.)

New "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" International Trailer Released:

We just saw the amazing new trailer from "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" that was released last week during the Olympics coverage. Today, a new international trailer was released. The new international trailer reveals both new and old footage as well as some new dialogue that wasn't seen in the new trailer released last Thursday. The trailer was found by ComicBook.com. Check it out below:

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" soars into theaters December 16, 2016.

D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures Coming to Disney World; New Concept Art Released for "Finding Dory"

D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures Coming to Disney World:

D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures is coming to Disney World's Contemporary Resort for a two-day event on November 19-20, 2016. D23 Members are invited to join in on Destination D, which is a celebration of Disney adventures of the past, present, and future.

Tickets for event vary in cost: Gold and Gold Family members will cost $190/person plus a $5 processing fee. Wilderness Explorer VIP Level: $1,100/person plus a $5 processing fee. General Member: $250/person plus the $5 processing fee. Tickets will go on sale on April 21 at 10 a.m. PST. 

Here are the details and highlights of the event including panels that were announced by D23:

The two-day event will take place November 19 and 20, 2016, at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort.

Since Walt Disney first brought his groundbreaking True-Life Adventures to the big screen, adventure has played a pivotal role in Disney entertainment, from the Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean to the new planet of Pandora, which will soon be unveiled at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This year, members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are invited to join the excitement at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures, a celebration of these landmarks of the past, present, and future. The two-day event will take place November 19 and 20, 2016 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort.

Presenters and panelists include Disney Legends Marty Sklar and Tony Baxter; Walt Disney Imagineers Joe Rohde, Chris Merritt, Jason Grandt, and Wyatt Winter; producer Don Hahn (The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast); and Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline—and more to be announced.*

Mickey’s of Glendale, the famed Walt Disney Imagineering store, returns to the event with a pop-up shop at the event for attendees, featuring a selection of exclusive Imagineering merchandise as well as limited-edition pins, T-shirts, and collectibles themed to the event.

Highlights of D23 DESTINATION D: AMAZING ADVENTURES will include*:

• New Walt Disney World Adventures: From Soarin’ Around the World to Rivers of Light—Get an insider’s glimpse into the latest experiences across Walt Disney World Resort as Disney Imagineers provide a behind-the-scenes look at new and upcoming entertainment.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Evolving a New Species of Theme Park—Explore the origins and incredible evolution of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, from early concepts to up-close looks at new enhancements to be discovered at the park.
• Magic Journeys: 45 Years of Walt Disney World Adventures—Celebrate the 45th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort with a nostalgic journey through some of the Vacation Kingdom’s most unique and fondly-remembered adventures!
• A Look Back at Walt Disney’s True-Life Adventures—Join Disney historians on an expedition through the landmark True-Life Adventure series, which earned the Disney Studio eight Academy Awards®!
• The Art and Adventures of Marc Davis—Discover the adventurous artwork of artist, animator, and Disney Legend Marc Davis with Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Production Designer Chris Merritt, who is authoring a new book on the Disney Legend.

The weekend event will take place in the convention center at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Tickets go on sale April 21, 2016, and are $190 each for D23 Gold and Gold Family Members. Tickets are also available to D23 General Members for $250 per ticket. All guests will receive a special gift created exclusively for the event, and attendees are guaranteed seats at all panels and presentations. A limited number of Wilderness Explorer VIP tickets will be available featuring early shopping, an exclusive evening experience on November 18, reserved seating for all presentations, a special gift bag, exclusive collectibles, and more.

Specially priced rooms and theme park tickets will be available to D23 Members who purchase Destination D tickets.

New Concept Art for "Finding Dory" Released:

Today, new concept are for the upcoming sequel to "Finding Nemo" in "Finding Dory" were released.  Four new images were released for the film that is due to be released on June 17, 2016. Here are the images: