Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Dates Announced; Disney Vacation Clubs 17th Resort Announced for Disney's Fort Wilderness

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates Announced:

Its halfway to Halloween with Disney Parks and of the many announcements this week we officially have the dates for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for 2023. Parties will kick off later this summer beginning August 11 and will run through November 1. Here is the announcement from the Disney Parks Blog:

"With spellbinding entertainment, favorite Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best and more, celebrate the most haunting time of the year at Walt Disney World Resort. This limited-capacity, nighttime event starts at 7 p.m. and allows guests to experience shorter wait times on attractions, themed food and beverage and more. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green can purchase tickets starting April 27, and tickets will be available to all guests starting May 2. "

The event dates are:

August: 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29

September: 1, 4, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29

October: 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31

November: 1

Guests this year can enjoy a ghostly promenade with the Haunted Mansion Gravediggers during Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade. Mickey's Not-so-Spooky Spectacular fireworks and projections show will once again be hosted by the 'Pumpkin King' himself, Jack Skellington. Guests will also be able to trick-or-treat throughout Magic Kingdom on their favorite sweets and treats. If you enjoy the Sanderson Sisters, you can enjoy the stars of "Hocus Pocus" as they and their comrades as they summon the ultimate "Hocus Pocus" party potion in the "Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular" on stage at Cinderella Castle.

Finally, all guests can enjoy during the party their favorite attractions including Haunted Mansion, Big Thunder Mountain, and the newly open TRON: Lightcycle Power Run powered by Enterprise. Please note TRON will use a virtual queue during the party.

Are you excited for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?

Disney Vacation Club Announces its 17th Resort for Disney's Wilderness Resort:

Walt Disney World and the Disney Vacation Club today announced proposed plans to bring its 17th resort to Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. It will bring a refreshed look to the cabin hideaways at the resort offering guests a private retreat in the midst of nature many comforts of home.

It will be nestled across 750 acres where more than 350 new cabins will be replacing the old cabins, which have delighted guests for years. The cabins will be built with an eye toward the environment, utilizing the footprint of the existing cabins and taking advantage of more energy-efficient features.

Each proposed, stand-alone cabin offers spacious accommodations, sleeping up to six adults, and features a bedroom, bathroom, living room, full kitchen and private patio. A select number of cabins are also expected to be dog-friendly. The cabins are part of an extended refresh at Fort Wilderness which include a proposed pool and walking trail enhancements as well as the recently closed for refurbishment of Trail's End restaurant and Crockett's Tavern, with more exciting news to come.

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort is expected to open in 2024. Additional Information regarding project details, the start of sales and rental bookings will be released at a later date.

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.

runDisney Announces Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon, DVC Launches New Options for runDisney Fans

runDisney Announces First Ever Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon:

Beginning yesterday, runDisney fans can now sign up for the first ever Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon. You can register now through February 28 at runDisney.com or at this weekends' 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon at the Health & Fitness Expo. Guests are required to run 13.1 miles around their neighborhood, on a treadmill, or wherever you enjoy running and you'll earn a very specially-themed medal by March 31.

This new virtual run experience also includes the 2018 runDisney Kessel Run Challenge, offering runners the chance to earn a special challenge medal (seen in the middle above) for completing both the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon from home and the Star Wars Dark Side Half Marathon on April 22 at Walt Disney World Resort.

As part of the registration process participants will have the opportunity to make a donation to Starlight Children’s Foundation on behalf of Star Wars: Force for Change. Starlight Children’s Foundation brings joy and comfort to hospitalized children and their families through programs at children’s hospitals around the world.

On behalf of Star Wars: Force for Change, runDisney is also thrilled to make an independent donation to Starlight Children’s Foundation in honor of the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon.

For updates and medal releases, follow runDisney on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Vacation Club Launches New Vacation Options for runDisney Fans:

Disney Vacation Club is launching new vacation options for runDisney fans called Guaranteed Event Weeks. Here are the details:

Purchasers of a Guaranteed Event Week will receive an annual, automatic, week-long reservation booking for accommodations at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the newest Disney Vacation Club Resort, for the week associated with their favorite Walt Disney World runDisney race! For example, if you purchase the Walt Disney World Marathon Guaranteed Event Week, you will have guaranteed accommodations at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins each year for that race. In addition, owners of a Guaranteed Event Week will also have the opportunity to secure up to five race entries in advance, annually, for eligible races offered during their selected runDisney event weekend.

Guaranteed Event Weeks went on sale yesterday January , with eligible events including the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side and Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend.

Lace up your running shoes and visit DisneyVacationClub.com/Run or call 877-382-6244 for more information on Disney Vacation Club Guaranteed Event Weeks.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Cruise Line Adding Three New Ships by 2023:

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

Special Offers for DVC Members at Disney Springs; Classic Space Mountain Returning to Disneyland

Special Offers for Disney Vacation Club Members at Disney Springs:

Beginning May 3 and on every Wednesday for the rest of 2017, Disney Vacation Club members will receive special discounts at a different Disney Springs store each week. Members will be able to enjoy early access to a featured store from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. before the store opens to the general public. 

The store's offer will be available to Vacation Club members all day during the shopping event AND throughout the event day during the store's operating hours. Here is the list of stores through July 5 more will be announced at a later date.

• Wednesday, May 3rd, Kate Spade New York: save 15% on purchases
• Wednesday, May 10th, Origins: save 15% on purchases
• Wednesday, May 17th, Pandora Jewelry: Save 10% and receive a cosmetic bag with purchase of $100 or more
• Wednesday, May 24th, Basin: Spend $30 and get one Bath Bomb; Spend $50 and get 2 Bath Bombs; spend $150 and get a Bath Bomb Barrel
• Wednesday, May 31st, Vera Bradley: Complimentary monogramming and gift with a purchase of $100 or more
• Wednesday, May June 7th, UGG: Complimentary Disney customization (up to $35) with any purchase
• Wednesday, June 14th, Sephora: Complimentary makeover (by appointment) and gift with a $50 purchase in product; complimentary gift with a $25 purchase in product
• Wednesday, June 28th, L’Occitane en Provence*: Save 15% on purchases of $65 or more
• Wednesday, June 28th, American Threads: Save 10% on purchases
• Wednesday, July 5th, Sugarboo & Co.: save 15% on purchases

It should be noted that L'Occitane en Provence will not be open early for Members; however, the store will feature a private shopping area for Members from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

More details on the events and the offers can be found here.

Classic Space Mountain Returning to Disneyland:

Disneyland guests will be saying goodbye to Hyperspace Mountain as the classic version of Space Mountain will be returning. The classic Space Mountain will returning to Disneyland on June 1. Just days after the celebration of the 40th Anniversary of Tomorrowland favorite, Space Mountain will be back to blast off on an intergalactic adventure. 

A variation of a concept Walt Disney developed in the 1960s, Space Mountain first opened at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in 1975. Construction on Space Mountain at Disneyland park began soon after. The attraction went on to become a guest favorite, seeing special themed versions such as Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and most recently Hyperspace Mountain.

 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Opening Date Set for Copper Creek Villas & Cabins; Miss Adventure Falls to Debut Soon

Opening Date Set for Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge:

Disney's newest Vacation Club will be ready in July as the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney Wilderness Lodge currently under construction will be ready to open July 17. Sales for the new DVC will begin next week on March 8, while general sales will begin next month on April 5. This will be the second Vacation Club development at Disney' Wilderness Lodge. 

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins offers Disney Vacation Club Members and guests a new frontier for magical vacations where the comforts of home and the wonders of the wilderness are deeply rooted in the magic of Disney. Inspired by the legendary mining and railroad history of the Pacific Northwest, Members and guests will discover rustically elegant accommodations, where cozy touches mix with modern designs to create a tranquil retreat.
Offering one of the widest ranges of accommodations found at Walt Disney World Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins will feature 184 modern, nature-inspired vacation homes, including Deluxe Studios, one- and two-bedroom Villas, and even three-bedroom Grand Villas, which sleep up to 12.

Artist Rendering from Disney

The new resort will also include 26 all-new luxurious waterfront cabins. Sleeping up to eight and featuring two bedrooms, two baths and large dining and living room spaces, the cabins’ floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed wooden beams and interior-exterior stone-hearth fireplace bring the beauty of the outdoors in, and offer plenty of room for families. After a long day of fun at the nearby theme parks, guests can return to their porch and relax in the built-in hot tub. Some even enjoy a view of the Electrical Water Pageant on Bay Lake!
Additional developments at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge include the recently opened Geyser Point Bar & Grill, an open-air lounge overlooking Bay Lake. The resort’s quick-service restaurant, Roaring Fork is also undergoing refurbishments and is scheduled to reopen later this year with a refreshed look and expanded outdoor seating. Boulder Ridge Cove pool, a modern-day swimmin’ hole, will also open this summer.

For even more details on the newest Disney Vacation Club resort, visit DisneyCopperCreek.com.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Miss Adventure Falls to Debut March 12 at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon:

After two name changes, Miss Adventure Falls, the new family-style raft ride is set to debut on March 12 at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon. Yesterday, we got our first look at some of the artifacts collected by Captain Mary Oceaneer, the sea-faring treasure hunter whose haul was caught in a rogue typhoon. Here is the captain's dive bell, one of her many treasures, that has ended up in the lagoon. 

This will just be one of treasures, guests will see as they twist and turn down the new fun-filled water experience aboard Miss Adventure Falls. More details coming as the new attraction opens next Sunday, March 12.

Disney Parks Blog

New "Beauty and the Beast" Poster; Permits Filed for Disney's Caribbean Beach Expansion

New "Beauty and the Beast" Poster:

A brand new poster for "Beauty and the Beast" was released today featuring a triptych image packed with characters that we haven't seen before as well as some familiar ones. Yahoo had the details on the new poster which you can check out below:

Check out the larger image of here. Here is what we can see from the image:

"At the center of the poster are Belle (Emma Watson) and the Beast (Dan Stevens), dancing in the iconic title-song sequence. Instead of the ballroom from the actual scene, they appear to be in a dilapidated, crumbling tower. To the left is an image of Belle wandering through the snow, approaching the castle as wolves close in on her. On the far left are characters from Belle’s life in the village: Her father Maurice (Kevin Kline) at the top, her devious suitor Gaston (Luke Evans) at the bottom, and Gaston’s sidekick Le Fou (Josh Gad) in the center. 

At the bottom of the poster are the servants who have been transformed into castle objects — from left to right, Plumette the feather duster, Lumière the candelabra, Garderobe the wardrobe, Cogsworth the clock, Chip the teacup, the coat rack (whose name, if he has one, has not been announced), and Mrs. Potts the teapot. 

Finally, to the right is a scene from a ball; it seems to be taking place at the castle, in happier times. The towers in the background are bright and shimmering, not like the dark and foreboding image to the left. Among the dancers are the human versions of Lumière (Ewan McGregor) and Plumette (Gugu Mbatha-Raw). To the left, we see the human Cogsworth (Ian McKellen), and to the right, from the top, the human versions of Cadenza (Stanley Tucci, playing a musician-turned-grand-piano), Garderobe (Audra McDonald), and Mrs. Potts (Emma Thompson)."

 The live action remake of Disney's animated classic "Beauty and the Beast" waltzes into theaters March 17.

Permits Filed for Disney's Caribbean Beach Expansion:

Permits have been filed for an expansion of the Disney Vacation Club at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. The project is set to begin this year with a completion date sometime in 2019.

The details are that the permits show a large, multi-story building that will part of the Disney Vacation Club wing of the resort. Six new structures will be built replacing some of the existing Barbados Village. Finally, there is a series of roadway and waterway improvements that have been planned. 

Source: WDW News Today

New Typhoon Lagoon Attraction Gets New Name & Concept Art; Disney Parks Moms Panel Welcomes 12 New Members

New Typhoon Lagoon Attraction Gets New Name & Concept Art:

Miss Fortune Falls is now renamed to Miss Adventure Falls and Disney has released new concept art for the new attraction coming to Disney's Typhoon Lagoon.

Miss Adventure Falls is an all-new, family-raft attraction owned by Captain Mary Oceaneer—a sea-faring treasure hunter whose haul was caught in a rogue typhoon and scattered across this tropical paradise years ago. Mary Oceaneer is a member of the Society of Adventurers and Explorers, made famous in various attractions around the world including Mystic Manor, the Jungle Navigation Ltd. Skipper Canteen, and Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, so the S.E.A. should tie-in in some fun ways in this new ride.

The new attraction will allow guests to enjoy a 4-person raft feel the rush of excitement with family and friends as the aquatic conveyor belt on the attraction chutes guests into action. Hold on tight as you spy precious artifacts collected from all around the globe. If guests are lucky enough, they may even meet the captain's old diving partner, an audio-animatronic parrot who's still hunting for the treasures at Typhoon Lagoon to this day.  Miss Adventure Falls will open in Spring 2017 at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon. 

Source: WDW News Today

Disney Parks Moms Panel Welcomes 12 New Members for 10th Anniversary:

Today, the Disney Parks Moms Panel welcomed 12 new members for 2017, which is a milestone for the panel in its 10th Anniversary. 12 panelists were chosen from a record number of applications last fall by the new panelists sharing their extensive knowledge of Disney Parks through storytelling, videos, and interviews. The new panelists include: 

• Lindsey P. - Walt Disney World
• Beth S.  - Disney Cruise Line
• Jan K. -Walt Disney World
• Lindsey M. - runDisney
• Linda M. - Disneyland
• Donyell R. - Walt Disney World
• Todd D. - Walt Disney World
• Thiana S. - Walt Disney World
• Anabel M. - Disneyland
• Jennifer C. - Walt Disney World 
• Emille C. - Walt Disney World
• Trish A. - Disney Vacation Club

Congratulations to all the new Disney Parks Moms Panelists for 2017. To meet the panelists or ask a question about planning your upcoming Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel.

Disney Parks & Resorts Receive Top Honors; Tank Gang Scene that Never Made it into "Finding Dory"

Disney Parks & Resorts Receive Top Honors:

Disney Parks & Resorts has once again been named one of the top destinations in the world to visit in the 29th Annual Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards. The awards celebrate the best of the best in travel according to everyday travelers.

• Walt Disney World Resort:
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
  • Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
  • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts
  • Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
• Disneyland Resort:
  • Disneyland Hotel
  • Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
• Disney Vacation Club:
  • Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort
• Disney Cruise Line
• Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

"To date, Disney Parks & Resorts around the world have been recognized more than 60 times by Condé Nast Traveler. It is awards like these that inspire us to work harder to continue living up to even higher guest expectations. Thank you again to Condé Nast Traveler readers and to our guests for this incredible honor!" - Disney Parks Blog

Congratulations to Disney Parks & Resorts for being one of the destinations around the world. Disney has to give thanks to its amazing cast members that help create those unforgettable vacation experiences for its guests.

Tank Gang Scene that Never Made it Into "Finding Dory":

Today, Disney/Pixar released a deleted scene from "Finding Dory" featuring the Tank Gang. It was a scene that was part of the movie for almost 2 and a half years where after Marlin & Nemo get separated from Dory they run into the Tank Gang. Check out the deleted scene below:

Today's the day! The sun is shining, the tank is clean, and a deleted scene from @FindingDory is here! pic.twitter.com/mR0iUTqsJr

— Disney•Pixar (@DisneyPixar) October 18, 2016

"Finding Dory" releases on Digital HD on October 25, 2016 and hits store shelves with Blu-Ray/DVD release of November 15, 2016.

What You Need to Know About the Effects Hurricane Matthew is Having on Disney

I would like to open with my thoughts and prayers are with all of the Southeast and the Caribbean as Hurricane Matthew barrels its way up the coast. If you are visiting Disney currently or even on a Disney Cruise some changes may have been made to prepare for Matthew's landfall tomorrow, October 6. Here is what you need to know:

Update 10:51 p.m. ET on 10/5:

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has been canceled for tomorrow, October 6 due to Hurricane Matthew. No word on Friday's party. For booking, refunds and other options guests may call (407)566-4985, option 5, between 9 AM and 11 PM (EST).

Disney is waving fees for most trips that are taking place from today 10/5/2016 through 10/9/2016. While it is not guaranteed, Disney is working with guests and full refunds are being given without penalization once the guest contacts Disney.

In preparation for tomorrow's landfall Disney has begun evacuating guests from Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground. Guests staying at the campground began receiving letters from the resort stating that Disney will be accommodating them at a new resort for the remainder of their stay. Disney's Fort Wilderness will be closing tomorrow at 11 a.m and is issuing a mandatory evacuation. Here is the letter guests received (Tweet by @ParksByDoom):

Disneys Working to relocate Guests at Ft Wilderness Campsites for the next few nights due to #HurricaneMatthew pic.twitter.com/YdIRIS10bV

— Mr. Doom PhD (@ParksByDoom) October 5, 2016

Also guests staying at Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, FL and Hilton Head, SC will also be closed.  Disney has also cancelled the 2016 Cross Country Classic that was being held at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex this weekend.

Update 8:55 p.m. ET on 10/5:
As of right now the only park changes for tomorrow October 6 are that Disney's Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon will be closed. They will be closed as well on Friday, October 7th. The Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show and Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue are cancelled for 10/6 and 10/7. Characters in Flight will be closed through October 9.

As for Disney Cruise Line, the following adjustments have been made to itineraries:

On the Disney Dream:

The October 3rd sailing is being extended a day, as Port Canaveral will not be available for the ship's original intended arrival this Friday, October 7. Instead the plan is to disembark guests on Saturday, October 8, once the Coast Guard has determined the port is safe for cruise ship operations. DCL is working with guests to assist them on travel operations.

The October 7 sailing of the Disney Dream from Port Canaveral is being cancelled. Refunds will automatically be processed back to the original form of payment used for cruise bookings. Guests are invited to call us at 1-866-325-3905 or 407-566-7032 beginning Monday, Oct. 10, to book a future cruise at a discount.

The Disney Magic:

The October 7 sailing of the Disney Magic from New York is being changed to a Canadian itinerary, with plans to visit Sydney, Nova Scotia; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Saint John, New Brunswick. Guests who remain on this revised itinerary will receive an onboard credit. Guests who would like to rebook a future sailing at a discount OR cancel their sailing for a full refund are invited to call us at 1-866-325-3905 or 407-566-7032.

Guests planning to sail on the October 8 sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral to the  eastern Caribbean is expected to sail as scheduled. They will continue to monitor the weather and make any necessary adjustments.

Stay tuned for more updates on the effects of Hurricane Matthew on Disney.

DVC's 25 and Beyond Bash Coming to California Adventure; Infinity War Renamed And No Longer Will be 2 Parts

Disney Vacation Club 25 and Beyond Bash Coming to California Adventure:

This year the Disney Vacation Club has been celebrating 25 years and beyond. Earlier this year the 25 and Beyond Bash made its way to the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. It was a huge success for Vacation Club Members. It will now be making its way to the West Coast at Disney California Adventure. It will be taking the park over on November 2, 2016 from 8:30 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. PST. Members and their guests can enter the park beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Some of the highlights include access to select attractions, meet-and-greets with some of your favorite Disney characters, a DJ dance party at Hollywood Backlot, late-night viewing of World of Color, and light refreshments. Activities and offerings are subject to change. A reservation is required and members can begin booking the event on August 3, 2016 at 8 a.m. Pacific Time. 

Here are some important details for the event:

• Membership Card and photo ID required at check-in.
• Complimentary admission to the after-hours event at Disney California Adventure Park is valid for the duration of the event, which begins at 8:30 PM. If you wish to enter Disney California Adventure Park before 6:00 PM, valid theme park admission is required.
• Offer is non-transferable.
• Party size limits apply:
  • For Members with a reservation at a Disney Resort hotel, party size is limited to the Member and up to the number of guests listed on their Disney Resort hotel reservation.
  • For Members without a reservation at a Disney Resort hotel, party size is limited to the Member and up to 5 guests.
• Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian.
• This is an open-air facility; experience is subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather.
• Unfortunately, walk-ins will not be permitted. 
• We request that Members cancel at least 48 hours in advance. Event may be canceled at the discretion of Disney Vacation Club due to inclement weather and Guests will be notified via resort communication. 
• This offer is part of Membership Extras. New purchasers after April 4, 2016, must purchase directly from Disney to have access to Membership Extras.

The link for reservations for the 25 and Beyond Bash will appear here. This is a complimentary event for Vacation Club members and there guests.

Infinity War Renamed and No Longer Will be 2 Parts:

Marvel's Infinity War has been renamed and will no longer be in two parts like originally planned. The first film will now be called "Marvel Avengers Infinity War" which is set for release on May 4, 2018. Part 2 of the film will now be a separate film with a chance that part 1's storyline will spill into the second film. That film has yet to be renamed and will be released May 3, 2019. They will be directed by brothers Joe and Anthony Russo. 

"Infinity War" will bring the Avengers together along with the Guardians of the Galaxy and many more super heroes as the fight save Earth from Thanos. In between then we still have "Thor: Ragnarok" (November 3, 2017)  and "Guardians of the Galaxy 2" which hits theaters May 5, 2017. 

New DVC Member Lounge Opens at Epcot; "Zootopia" Crosses the $1 Billion Mark at Global Box Office

New Disney Vacation Club Member Lounge Opens at Epcot:

Many months ago when all the details on the celebration of the Disney Vacation Club's 25th Anniversary were announced, members were excited for the exclusive member lounge opening in Epcot. After months of work, today the new Member Lounge inside Epcot's Imagination pavilion opened. The lounge will be open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Members will be to enter the lounge up a staircase or up the glass elevator in the ImageWorks merchandise location of the pavilion. Here guests will enter into one of the Imagination Pavilion's towering glass pyramids and sunshine-filled room with amazing views of Epcot.

In the lounge members can take a break from the parks, recharge their mobile devices, enjoy complimentary beverages (including Coca-Cola freestyle machines), Wi-Fi, computer stations, a printer, and mounted tablets where guests can access many of their favorite Disney websites. Have no fear parents there's a play area for your kids too where they can test their video game skill with Disney Infinity or watch some of the latest Disney animated shorts.

While the kids are playing, parents can speak with Member Services Advisers who are available daily to assist with dining reservations, future resort stays, and more. On the weekdays, an RCI Advisor will be available to help DVC members navigate exchange options for future vacations. Here are some pictures Disney released of the new member lounge:

"Zootopia" Crosses the $1 Billion Mark at Global Box Office:

Over the weekend, "Zootopia" became Disney's second film of the year to cross over the $1 Billion mark at the global box office. The film which has been a huge success since its March 4th release in theaters will be released to Blu-Ray/DVD tomorrow, June 7 in the US. Here is the press release from Disney:

“Zootopia” Crosses $1 Billion Worldwide

 Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia crossed the $1 billion dollar mark yesterday, becoming Disney’s second billion-dollar release of 2016 and its 11th ever. Worldwide, it’s the No. 1 animated film of the year and just the fourth animated film ever to cross the $1 billion threshold. It’s also one of the biggest original films of all time. Among Disney Animation releases, it ranks No. 2 globally behind only Frozen. 
As of June 5, Zootopia has grossed $337.2M domestically and $663.5M internationally for a global total of $1,000.7M. With a resounding 98 percent Fresh RottenTomatoes score, Zootopia has been universally embraced by audiences. It earned an A CinemaScore from domestic audiences and spent three weeks at No. 1 following its $75 million debut – the highest ever three-day opening for Disney Animation and the biggest animated opening ever in the month of March. It remained in the top 10 domestically for 13 weeks. In China, Zootopia is the highest grossing animated film of all time and Disney’s biggest release ever there, while in Russia it is the second biggest industry release ever behind only Avatar. 
Zootopia is the latest in a string of major critical and commercial successes from Walt Disney Animation Studios, beginning in 2010 with Tangled ($594M) and including Wreck-It Ralph ($478M), Big Hero 6 ($658M), and of course 2013’s Frozen ($1.277B). These five films boast average RottenTomatoes scores of 91 percent and have brought in $4 billion in combined global box office.
Zootopia was released theatrically in the US/Canada on March 4 and is due out on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital on June 7.

This is one film I never got to see in theaters and I can't wait to own it on Blu-Ray so no spoilers please, lol.

Disney Vacation Club Tours to be Offered Through My Disney Experience; "Captain America: Civil War" Nabs 5th Best Opening Ever

Disney Vacation Club Tours to be Offered Through My Disney Experience:

According to WDW Magic, later this week Disney World guests staying at a moderate or deluxe resorts when booking their FastPass+ reservations will have a chance to book a Disney Vacation Club  Open House Tour through My Disney Experience. 

Guests who take up the offer during this test run, will also receive three additional FastPass+ entitlements added onto their My Disney Experience accounts. The additional FastPass+ entitlements must be used on the same day that the tour is give. 

Currently, guests must book the open house tours through Disney Vacation Club representatives that are all around the resorts, Disney World theme parks, and at Disney Springs. Again this will just be a trial of booking the reservations through My Disney Experience. No word on when this will fully take effect. 

"Captain America: Civil War" Nabs Fifth Best Opening Ever Domestically:

"Captain America: Civil War" kicked the Box Office's butt in it's opening weekend nabbing the fifth best opening weekend ever domestically. The film which pits our favorite superheroes against each other raked in $181.8 million in the U.S. alone. 

The film has already made almost a half billion internationally after raking in $496. 6 million worldwide. The film has already made $678 million just 12 days after its release overseas and since its release on Friday in the U.S. The film is all but assured to be the first film in 2016 to rake in $1 billion at the box office worldwide. 

It's the third best Marvel film on its opening weekend domestically behind "The Avengers" ($207.4 million) and "Age of Ultron" ($191.3 million). Disney meanwhile has its third successful film of the year through the huge success of "Zootopia" and the continued success of "The Jungle Book" which was No. 2 at the box office behind "Civil War" and has already grossed $776.2 million worldwide. 

I'll be seeing "Civil War" on Tuesday and I can't wait. #TeamCap all the way. 

BB-8 Previews Star Wars Land, New FastPass+ Changes go Into Effect Sunday, and More

BB-8 Previews Star Wars Land Possibly:

BB-8 seems to be previewing Star Wars Land at Disneyland in a photo released by the Disney Parks Blog. Erin Glover said more details on what our favorite droid from "The Force Awakens" is looking at will be released soon. 

Speculation is that we will soon hear details on when ground will be officially be broken in Disneyland and Disney World. Maybe we will finally get a date for when the lands will open. Who knows but stay tuned for more info.

New FastPass+ Changes to go Into Effect Sunday, April 10:

Rumors have long been coming that major changes were coming to FastPass+, we now know when those dates will go into effect. Changes to the FastPass+ system will go into effect this Sunday, April 10. These changes include:

• No more having to choose between 3 tiered ride choices at a time and take the "best option" where they choose the times for you
• Instead, you can now select 1 ride at a time and select a specific time for that ride
• Ability to remove individual guests from FastPass+ reservation
• Ability to cancel single reservation instead of all three

Are you excited for the new FastPass+ changes coming to Walt Disney World?

Disney Vacation Club Announces New Benefit Restrictions for Resales Buyers:

Today, in a letter from Ken Potrock, SVP & GM of Disney Vacation Club and Adventures by Disney, announced new restrictions to benefits available to resale purchasers effective today, April 4. This includes discounts on dining, shopping, annual passes, and access to member-exclusive events. Here is the letter:

Dear Disney Vacation Club Member,

Our goal at Disney Vacation Club has always been to create magical experiences for you and your families – experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else but Disney.

As our Member community continues to grow, we want to make sure we can continue to deliver the Membership Extras that add value to your overall experience – offerings that are provided as a premium advantage to our Members who purchase directly from Disney Vacation Club.

With that in mind, please be aware of a policy change regarding the availability of Membership Extras to our membership. As previously communicated (effective March 21, 2011), Getaways included within the Disney Collection (e.g., Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney) and the Concierge Collection, which are now part of Membership Extras, have not been available for ownership interests not purchased directly from Disney Vacation Club. Now, effective April 4, 2016, Members who do not purchase their ownership interest directly from Disney Vacation Club will not have access to other Membership Extras, such as exclusive Member experiences and discounts. Please know that as a current Disney Vacation Club Member (regardless of when or where you bought your membership), your access to Disney Differences and these additional Membership Extras will not be affected by this policy change. For more details about our Membership Extras program, please refer to our Membership Extras Acknowledgment and Disclosure Statement available online at disneyvacationclub.com.

We see this policy change as a very positive step to ensure that, going forward, our Members who purchase directly from Disney Vacation Club receive a premium advantage – in addition to all the magic that Disney has to offer.

Speaking of membership advantages, you’ve probably heard about the exciting Membership Extras introduced as part of the Disney Vacation Club 25th Anniversary. With this celebration, we’ve created unprecedented and exclusive Disney experiences for you and your family. In fact, just weeks ago, nearly 16,000 of you were able to enjoy the Disney Vacation Club 25 and Beyond Bash at Magic Kingdom Park. Meanwhile, more than 10,000 Members have entered our Disney Vacation Club Silver Anniversary Sweepstakes, and thousands of you have booked the Member Cruise sailing from New York later this year.

In the coming months we’ll be bringing you even more spectacular Membership Extras as part of the anniversary, from exclusive merchandise and one-of-a-kind events (including exciting plans for the West Coast) to an all-new Member Lounge opening later this spring in the Imagination! Pavilion at Epcot. And there’s so much more Disney Vacation Club fun on the horizon!

Thank you, as always, for being part of the Disney Vacation Club family – a family we are proud to serve. We look forward to welcoming you home again soon!

Sincerely,

Ken Potrock
Senior Vice President & General Manager Disney Vacation Club & Adventures by Disney

Changes are effective immediately.