Week in Review: Walt Disney World Announces Plans for 2023, TRON Soft Opening, and Mickey's Toontown Reopens in Disneyland

 It was a busy week for the Disney theme parks in the US as the beginning of the week kicked off the press event for the opening of TRON: Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. During the event Disney made several announcements about what's to come this year at Walt Disney World.

Starting off on April 22, at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Moana will begin greeting guests along the Discovery River. This fall at Magic Kingdom, Mirabel from "Encanto"will greet guests in the Fairytale Garden, which will be transformed with whimsical decor by La Familia Madrigal. As previously announced at this past summer's D23 Expo, Figment will begin greeting guests at the Imagination Pavilion  later this year and Mickey & Friends will have a new home inside the brand new Communicore Hall at EPCOT!

Communicore Hall Concept Art

Speaking of EPCOT, the Disney 100th Celebration will shine spotlight on the park as this Fall, Journey of Water Inspired by Moana will open. Then later this year, an all new nighttime spectacular highlighting the 100 Years of Wonder will debut. 

Finally, a stunning new restaurant will open at Disney Springs in late 2023 in Summer House on the Lake. The restaurant embodies a breezy, beach house vibe featuring three expansive outdoor patios with a lake view. The California-inspired menu will feature simple, sustainable ingredients from pizza and pasta to fresh salads and sandwiches. 

I know I'm excited for my trip in November.

TRON is set to open in a little over 2 weeks, but starting tomorrow Monday, March 20 the ride will soft open to guests via virtual queue or via purchase of individual lightning lane. The soft opening will be available until April 2. 

Mickey's Toontown Reopens in Disneyland:

Mickey's Toontown is officially open in Disneyland as the reimagined land opened to guests today beginning a new era of ways families and young children can play together. The land was dedicated yesterday by Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock where he was joined by Mickey and the residents of Toontown including for the first time ever Pete is making appearances as he causes mischief around the neighborhood. 

CenToonial Park is the first place guests will see as they enter the land and is anchored by two new interactive play experiences: a beautiful fountain featuring water tables designed for play that invite you to have a sensory experience plus nearby a dreaming tree with sculpted tree roots for children to crawl around and explore. 

Goofy's How To Play Yard incorporates a whimsical sound garden where kids can discover new ways to make wacky noises, as well as an all new, elevated club house. Donald's Duck Pond will help little ones get all their wiggles and make a splash that is surrounded by larger than life spinning water lilies, balance beams and rocking toys. 

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway debuted in the land back on January 27 of this year with the reopening today it is joined by Chip & Dale's Gadget Coaster and the return of Mickey and Minnie's houses as well as Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin. 

Two all new dining locations have opened in the land in Cafe Daisy and Good Boy! Grocers Farmers Market. Cafe Daisy serves up playful spins on diner classics - including a plant-based option. At Good Boy! Grocers farmers market stand offers grab-and-go drinks, snacks and novelties.

Finally, located next to Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway, EngineEar Souvenirs features a selection of Mickey Mouse and pals toys, apparel, headwear and more to "choo-choo-choose" from including the all new Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway remote control trackless train.

That's all for this week and we will see you all real soon.

- John

Breaking: Say Goodbye to Splash Mountain at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Ride will be Re-Themed to Princess and the Frog

 

Concept Art of Re-Themed Splash Mountain

Disney dropped a bombshell on us this morning with the announcement of Splash Mountain at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World being re-themed to Princess and the Frog to set new adventures with Princess Tiana. A few weeks ago after it was rumored that Disney should re-theme the classic ride from its controversial theming from Disney's animated film "Song of the South". Disney has reportedly been working on the reimagination of the ride for over a year according to Disney Imagineer, Bob Weis.

The ride will pickup shortly after the film's final kiss where guests will join Princess Tiana and Louis on a musical adventure featuring some of the films powerful music as they prepare for their first ever Mardi Gras performance. Charita Carter, the senior creative producer leading the project at Walt Disney Imagineering shared this quote with the announcement, “Like Princess Tiana, I believe that courage and love are the key ingredients for wonderful adventures. I am delighted to be a part of bringing this fun-filled experience to our guests.”

For Imagineers, change is rooted in a tradition set by Walt Disney who encouraged new innovations, new ideas, new scenes and current storytelling. And the experiences they create can be enjoyed by guests who visit our parks from all over the world.

As part of the creative development process, conceptual design work is well underway and Imagineers will soon be able to conduct preliminary reviews and develop a timeline for when the transformation can start to take shape. As of now there is no timeline for when the reimagination will take place. It was announced the both attractions on both coast will open back up when Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom opens on July 11 and when Disneyland opens back up with its current theming. 

Stay tune for more information as we learn about the future of Splash Mountain. 

Village Inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Named

Village Inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Named:

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

First Look at Edna Mode Coming to Disney Parks:

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

Marvel Land Coming to Disneyland in 2020:

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Get a Sneak Peak of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge With New Flyover Video

We are all patiently (NOT!) waiting to explore Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at both Disneyland and at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Yesterday, during the annual shareholders meeting, Disney President and CEO Bob Iger gave a sneak peak of the progress on both lands with a flyover of the construction site. It was then later shared on the Disney Parks Blog.

Check out the video below:

At Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, guests will be transported to the planet of Batuu, a remote outpost on the galaxy’s edge that was once a busy crossroads along the old sub-lightspeed trade routes. Here, guests will find themselves in the middle of the action at two attractions that take detail and immersion to the next level: one that lets guests take the controls of Millennium Falcon on a customized secret mission, and an epic Star Wars adventure that puts guests in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will open at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios in 2019.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Updates Revealed This Week About Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge & Star Wars Hotel

This week we received some new images of what's coming to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge to both Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios next year. First Imagineers show us how they are bringing the Millennium Falcon to life for the new remote planet.

Back in December it was revealed that Walt Disney Imagineers were going to bring a fleet of life-size X-wings to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. This week we got an up close look at one of those X-wings as they are ready to arrive on the new planet. 

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will open first in Disneyland and then sometime soon after at Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in 2019. 

Finally, though we got another update as we got another look with some live images of the Star Wars-inspired resort coming to Walt Disney World. As reported earlier this month the resort will be seamlessly connected to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Guests staying at the luxurious resort will be even welcomed to dress in Star Wars-inspired attire. 

The immerse experience offered at this hotel will stand out among all of the other resorts around the globe. As you can see, families visiting this amazing resort will board a starship alive with characters and stories that will unfold all around them during their voyage through the galaxy – and every window has a view of space! Check out one more live image released for the Star Wars resort.



As of now an opening date for the Star Wars-inspired resort has not been announced.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Ballast Point Brewery and More Changes Coming to Downtown Disney District in Disneyland

Here's an update for our West Coast friends as San Diego-based Ballast Point Brewery will be coming to the Downtown Disney District in Disneyland among other changes coming to the district in 2018. 

Ballast Point pairs its high-quality, award-winning beers with an extensive menu of Southern California cuisine—salads, small plates, flatbreads and entrees featuring local, sustainable and seasonal ingredients. The space will house the first-ever on-site brewery, tasting room, kitchen and outdoor beer garden at Downtown Disney District. Construction is scheduled to begin soon, across from Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar.

This is on top of the already announced changes to coming to World of Disney in 2018 which you can read about here. Here are more exciting experiences coming to the Downtown Disney District in 2018:

• Splitsville Luxury Lanes will offer a unique combination of dining, drinks, bowling and entertainment. Opening on January 29.
• Disney Home will offer fans a variety of Disney-themed home goods. Opening in February 2018.
• Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria will undergo renovations to expand its outside patio with a new outside bar. Inside, three wood burning ovens will be installed to better meet guests’ demands for authentic Napoletana-style pizza pies. The restaurant will remain open throughout construction, which is slated to be completed in fall 2018.
• Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer will serve its award-winning burgers and signature CrazyShake™ milkshakes in a casual atmosphere. Opening later this year.

There are even more exciting updates coming in 2018 yet to be announced so stay tuned right here on It All Started With a Mouse for future updates. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Reimagined World of Disney Stores Coming to Both Coasts in 2018

As part of continued enhancements to guests’ shopping experiences at Disney Parks, the World of Disney store locations in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort and in Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort will be reimagined beginning in mid-February 2018.

When the interior redesign work is completed, guests will discover the products they love from Disney Parks in a dynamic and distinctly Disney retail environment. Work will be completed in phases throughout 2018, so guests can continue shopping in the World of Disney stores during construction.

At the shops in Town Center at Disney Springs, such as Ever After Jewelry Co. or The Disney Corner (opening in mid-February), will carry select merchandise while World of Disney undergoes renovations.

At the Downtown Disney District in California, World of Disney will remain open during the renovation. Additionally, Guests can find great shopping in the recently opened Dream Boutique, as well as the Disney Home store opening February 2018 in the former D-Street location.

Stay tuned for future updates on the reimagination of World of Disney at both Downtown Disney in Disneyland and Disney Springs in Walt Disney World in the coming months.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Galactic Nights Gives Us an Update on Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

During last night's Star Wars: Galactic Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, guests at the event were treated to an update on Batuu and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Lead Imagineer Scott Trowbridge along with fellow Imagineers Robin Reardon and Chris Beatty along with Doug Chiang from Lucasfilm shared details on the new land opening up in 2019.

Earlier last week Disney shared a photo of what looks to be the queue area of the Millennium Falcon attraction and Trowbridge had this share about the attraction:

"We talked a lot about authenticity – how we are building a real place in the Star Wars universe and how we are working hard to get the details right. One of my favorite examples is the Millennium Falcon. We’ve all seen her on screen, but until you climb through that hatch, walk through her hallways, sit inside the cockpit, power her up and actually FLY her yourself, it’s not quite the same."

One of the most exciting details was that they are actually building a fleet of X-wings for the new world. One tap of the metal tells you these are real starships ready for action. I can't wait to see these for real on Batuu. 

In the panel, Chris Beatty also discussed how Imagineers visited Istanbul and Marrakech. They were a big part in helping to tell the story of Batuu and the village/marketplace inside the planet where guests will be able to visit a rich collection of shops and merchant stalls. 

Chris gave an example of a Toydarian in "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" and what does he sell toys of course. Concept art of the stall can be seen above. Inside you'll be able to discover all kinds of  fun and cool toys straight out of the Star Wars galaxy. Exclusive to this outpost, all these offerings will look like they were hand-crafted by local artisans. 

As always stay tuned for more updates on Batuu and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opening at Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2019. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

First Look at New Floats for Pixar Play Parade; Disney on Broadway Concert Lineup Announced

First Look at New Floats for Pixar Play Parade to Debut April 13:

Starting yesterday the Disney Parks Blog began their 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas in which over the next 12 days they will reveal some new and exciting things coming to Disney Parks in 2018. The first day yesterday revealed the three new floats that will debut as part of the Pixar Play Parade which will return to Disneyland on April 13 as part of Pixar Fest.

The parade will begin as all Pixar films have, with an appearance by the iconic and adorable Pixar Lamp. Rolling ahead of the famous lamp will be the familiar yellow Pixar Ball, making a cameo in Pixar Play Parade, as it has in many Pixar films.

Next up to be joining the parade are characters from the beloved film, “Up.” Wilderness Explorer Russell will appear astride the colorful flightless bird, Kevin, with Carl Fredricksen and Dug following behind amid green foliage and snipe chicks, with Carl’s tethered house floating above.

Finally, one more Pixar story coming to Pixar Play Parade is “Inside Out.” Perched atop colorful memory orbs, Joy and Sadness take flight aboard Bing Bong’s rocket wagon, with Bing Bong himself cheering them on! This will be the first time that guests will see Bing Bong in the parks.

Stay tuned over the next 12 days as more exciting things are revealed about Disney Parks in 2018.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disney on Broadway Concert Lineup Announced for Festival of the Arts:

Believe it or not the Epcot International Festival of the Arts is just over a month away and now we have just who will be performing for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series. Over the six weeks of the festival guests can enjoy musical pairings of Broadway talent singing Disney on Broadway tunes at the American Gardens Theatre. Here is the lineup:

January 12-15, 19-22: Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massay – Tarzan, Aladdin, Newsies, Frozen

January 26-29, February 2-5: Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White – Tarzan, The Lion King, Aida, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid

February 9-12, 16-19: Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland – Beauty and the Beast, Tarzan, Mary Poppins, Newsies, Frozen

The 2nd Annual Epcot International Festival of the Arts runs January 12 through February 19, 2018. 

Source: WDW News Today

Black Panther Meet & Greet Coming to Disney California Adventure in 2018

Marvel's "Black Panther" hits theaters February 16, 2018 but guests visiting Disney California Adventure in 2018 will get to meet the king of Wakanda himself. Black Panther will meet with guests for a limited time. More details on the meet & greet will be released in the future.

“Black Panther” follows T’Challa who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king. But when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king — and Black Panther — is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people and their way of life.

 "Black Panther" swings into theaters this coming February. Check out the trailer below:

BREAKING: Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Planet Called Batuu; Magical Express to Pick Up 4 Hours Ahead

BREAKING: Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Planet Called Batuu:

We now know what planet we will be visiting when Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opens at Disneyland and at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The planet will be called Batuu. 

The name of the planet was revealed this morning as guests visiting Star Tours with the updated scene to Crait from "The Last Jedi" got a surprise ending to the scene. The guests actually land on Batuu at the end of the ride. Stay tuned for more details from Batuu and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge which opens up in 2019.

UPDATE:

"This remote outpost on the galaxy’s edge was once a busy crossroads along the old sub-lightspeed trade routes, but its prominence was bypassed by the rise of hyperspace travel. Now home to those who prefer to stay out of the mainstream, it has become a thriving port for smugglers, rogue traders and adventurers traveling between the frontier and uncharted space. It’s also a convenient safe haven for those intent on avoiding the expanding reach of the First Order. While Batuu may be new to us, it is clearly already familiar to many characters from the Star Wars saga as a stepping off point for epic adventures." - Scott Trowbridge

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Magical Express to Pick Guests Up 4 Hours Ahead of Scheduled Flights:

Going into effect today, November 17, Disney's Magical Express will now pick up guests from their hotels 4 hours ahead of their scheduled flights at Orlando International Airport. Magical Express used to pick up 3 hours ahead of time but with changes to TSA security measures and the busy holiday season the change was made. 

Disney stated that the policy will be re-evaluated sometime in early 2018 after the holiday season calms down. So there is a chance it could change back. 

Source: WDW News Today

Milestone Celebrated for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge; First Look at Crait Plus a New Scene Coming to Star Tours

Milestone Celebrated for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios:

Just recently a big milestone was celebrated on construction of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Thousands of Cast Members got the chance to sign the support beam that will top out the land that will debut in 2019.

Look closely and you’ll see that cast members and Imagineers put their mark on theme park history by drawing artistic pictures and writing messages on the beam that’ll eventually be part of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – a 14-acre remote outpost that will transport guests to a galaxy far, far away.

Beam signings are part of a longtime construction tradition at Disney Parks. Recent updates on beam signings for expansions like Pandora – The World of Avatar, plus the Disneyland park site of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge were also celebrated by Cast Members. 

Stay tuned for even more updates and milestones on Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge construction in the coming months and year. Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will debut at Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2019.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

First Look at Crait Plus Another New Scene to Debut at Star Tours:

The new Crait scene from "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" will debut at Star Tours at Disney Parks beginning tomorrow November 17. The other day the Disney Parks Blog gave us a first look at the StarSpeeder scene on the planet of Crait.

They also snuck a teaser that Crait wasn't the only new Star Tours destination that will debut this week as they teased that there is another set to debut at Disney's Hollywood Studios and at Disneyland. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Two Disney Park Holiday Specials Coming this Holiday Season

Halloween is over and the holiday season is upon us. This year there will be two Disney Parks Holiday specials one later this month on November 30 and another on Christmas Day, December 25.
Each will air on ABC.

The first will be on November 30 from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. called, "The Wonderful World of Disney: Magic Holiday Celebration" hosted by Julianne Hough and Nick Lachey from Walt Disney World and Jesse Palmer will host from Disneyland. Performances announced so far are:

1. Ciara in a Christmas medley from Cinderella Castle.
2. Darius Rucker, singing “Winter Wonderland.”
3. Fifth Harmony will sing “Can You See,” from “The Star” soundtrack, and “The Christmas Song.”
4. Fitz and the Tantrums will perform “HandClap” and their original Christmas song “Santa Stole My Lady.”
5. Hanson will sing “Finally It’s Christmas,” from their recently released Christmas album.
6. Boy band In Real Life will sing “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”
7. Jason Derulo will perform “This Christmas.”
8. Lea Michele will perform “Baby It’s Cold Outside.”

More performances will be announced in the coming weeks. 

The second special will air on Christmas Day in its usual time slot of 10 p.m. until noon. This year's Christmas Day special will be called, "Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration." It will also be hosted by Julianne Hough and Nick Lachey from Walt Disney World and Palmer from Disneyland. Special performances which more will be announced soon are:

• Ciara will sing “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” from Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
• Darius Rucker singing “Home for The Holidays.”
• Fifth Harmony performing “Sleigh Ride.”
• Fitz and the Tantrums will be performing “Last Christmas.”
• Jason Derulo will sing “Silent Night” from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland.
• ”Glee” star Michele will perform “Let It Snow.”
• 98 Degrees will play their new song “Season of Love” from their new holiday record.
• Telly Leung and Arielle Jacobs, from the stage show “Aladdin,” will perform “A Whole New World” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The holidays are upon us and we can't wait for these Disney Parks holiday specials.

Source: WDW News Today

New Details on Pixar Pier Released, What's Going Away?

During the D23 Expo in August Walt Disney Parks & Resort President Bob Chapek dropped some big news about Paradise Pier at Disney California Adventure. The news was that Paradise Pier would be transformed into Pixar Pier and yesterday we learned just what will be in the newly transformed pier. The new area will bring four brand new themed areas from our favorite Pixar films including "The Incredibles", "Toy Story", "Inside Out", and more.

The first of the four themed neighborhoods guests will find is inspired by “The Incredibles.” Here, the new Incredicoaster, permanently transformed from the attraction that is now California Sceamin'. This Incredicoaster will feature a mid-century-modern-style loading area, new character moments from "The Incredibles 2", and a new look for the ride vehicles. To prepare for this transformation, California Screamin’ will close Jan. 8.

The popular Toy Story Mania! will anchor the “Toy Story”-inspired neighborhood. A neighborhood inspired by “Inside Out” will be found on the western side of the boardwalk and will welcome a new family-friendly attraction, scheduled to open at a later date.

The fourth neighborhood will be a celebration of many of your favorite Pixar stories. In this neighborhood, Mickey’s Fun Wheel will have a new look, with each of the 24 gondolas featuring different Pixar characters and the iconic face of Mickey Mouse remaining on the Paradise Bay side of the wheel. 

At the Games of the Boardwalk, which already includes the Bullseye Stallion Stampede game, all of the midway games will be inspired by Pixar characters. New games will be themed to other Pixar films such as "Wall-E", "A Bug's Life", and "La Luna." Mickey’s Fun Wheel, Games of the Boardwalk and Sideshow Shirts will close Jan. 8 to begin this transformation.

Ariel’s Grotto restaurant and the Cove Bar will be transformed into a new lounge and grill offering sparkling views of Paradise Bay and the new Pixar Pier. Both locations will close Jan. 8, with Cove Bar reopening briefly in April before closing again for its permanent transformation. Guests wishing to reserve “World of Color” dining packages after Jan. 7 may consider Carthay Circle Restaurant or Wine Country Trattoria.

The remaining areas of the land that is now Paradise Pier, including Paradise Gardens, Silly Symphony Swings, Jumpin’ Jellyfish, Goofy’s Sky School, Golden Zephyr and The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, will become a new land called Paradise Park.

Pixar Pier will open sometime during Disneyland Resort's limited time event Pixar Fest which begins April 13, 2018.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

             WDW News Today

Full Cast for "The Lion King" Revealed; Mickey's Birthday Celebration at Disney Parks

Full Cast for "The Lion King" Remake Revealed:

Disney just revealed the full cast for the live-action remake of "The Lion King." We already knew some of the cast such as Donald Glover (Simba), James Earl Jones returning as Mufasa, and Beyonce as Nala. Here is the full cast besides these amazing stars.

Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar

Alfree Woodard as Sarabi

John Oliver as Zazu

John Kani as Rafiki

Seth Rogen as Pumbaa

Billy Eichner as Timon

Eric Andre as Azizi

Florence Kasumba as Shenzi

Keegan-Michael Key as Kamari

JD McCrary as Young Simba

Shahadi Wright Joseph as Young Nala

"The Lion King" live action film which is being directed by Jon Favreau is due in theaters Summer 2019.

Mickey's Birthday Celebration at Disney Parks:

Mickey's big day is fast approaching once again as it will be celebrated at Disney Parks around the world. Mickey's Birthday is November 18 as he heads out on another epic adventure around the world. Here is what is in store at Disney Parks:

Walt Disney World:

Will celebrate with special “Happy Birthday, Mickey!” buttons, merchandise and Sorcerer Mickey Cake. To commemorate the occasion, guests can sing and dance along with “Happy Birthday” during Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!, Cosmic Dance Party in Tomorrowland and performances by the Dapper Dans. Plus, birthday photo props will be available at all four theme parks, and everyone who collects their photos at the parks will receive a folder with a commemorative sticker.

Disneyland:

Will host a celebration cavalcade for Mickey Mouse, featuring some of his special friends and the Disneyland Band, starting at “it’s a small world” and pausing for a special moment at Sleeping Beauty Castle before continuing down Main Street, U.S.A., to Town Square. There will be plenty of chances to sing “Happy Birthday” along the way, and of course, “Happy Birthday, Mickey!” buttons will be distributed to park guests.

Disneyland Paris:

On Main Street, USA is where the party's at. Be prepared to celebrate Mickey’s birthday just before “Disney Magic on Parade,” as well as during the Lucky Nugget Saloon show at Disneyland park and in “Mickey and the Magician” at Walt Disney Studios park. And what’s a birthday without cake? Guests can find plenty to snack on at locations around the resort.

Guests at Hong Kong Disneyland can pick up a special Mickey Birthday pin and a special edition Times Guide in honor of everyone’s favorite mouse. At Shanghai Disney Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort, guests will have the chance to sing “Happy Birthday” and join in unique photo opportunities.

Mickey will also be visiting several places around the world leading up to his big day such as Japan, Chile, Canada, China, England, and the United States on his Instagram and Facebook pages. On November 15 there will be even more surprises when he visits Good Morning America on November 15. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Summer of Heroes Coming to Disneyland Paris in 2018; More Details on Pixar Fest at Disneyland

Summer of Heroes Coming to Disneyland Paris Next Summer:

Just announced a few short hours ago at Comic-Con London, Summer of Heroes will be coming to Disneyland Paris next Summer to help close out the parks 25th Anniversary. Announced by David Bushore, Vice President Franchise Creative and Marketing for Marvel Studios and Mark Huffman, Creative Director at Disneyland Paris, the celebration will begin June 10, 2018 and run through September 30. The 25th Anniversary Celebrations will now be extended through September 30 as well.

Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Spider-Man, Star-Lord and Black Widow will appear for the first time exclusively at Disneyland Paris in summer 2018 in a special Marvel Summer of Super Heroes season. Your favorite heroes will be featured in the Walt Disney Studios Park for exciting meet & greets and breathtaking, epic shows (replacing CineMagique).

That’s not all for Marvel fans at Disneyland Paris. Disneyland Paris is also re-imagining from October 2018 one of its Resort Hotels into a universe that would make Tony Stark proud. Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel will transport guests to the action-packed, inspiring world of Super Heroes including Iron Man, The Avengers, and Spider Man among others, and will open within 2020. Construction on the hotel will begin early next year in 2018.

Stay tuned for more details on Marvel Summer of Super Heroes coming in the future.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Pixar Fest Details Released Beginning April 13 Throughout Disneyland Resort:

During the D23 Expo, President of Disney Parks & Resorts Bob Chapek announced that Pixar Fest would be coming to Disneyland Resort sometime in 2018. We now know the date where the festival will begin in April 13. The limited time celebration of friendship and beyond will feature the debut of an all-new fireworks spectacular and the return of two favorite parades as well as even more beloved Pixar characters, new décor, atmosphere entertainment, themed food and beverage and new merchandise items.

“Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular”  (Concept art pictured above) will light up Disneyland park beginning April 13. In addition to dazzling pyrotechnics and memorable music, the theme of friendship, ever-present in most Pixar films, is celebrated in this nighttime spectacular. Guests are invited to embark on an emotional journey that starts when unlikely Pixar characters first meet. As they set out on adventures and overcome obstacles together, “Together Forever” celebrates the everlasting friendships forged by beloved Pixar pals. The story comes to life through projections on iconic park locations: Sleeping Beauty Castle, the water screens of the Rivers of America, the façade of “it’s a small world” and the buildings of Main Street, U.S.A. This nighttime spectacular will even feature a special flyover by Buzz Lightyear at Sleeping Beauty Castle.

April 13 will also mark the return of Paint the Night at Disney California Adventure. A new Pixar story (float) will join other floats depicting our favorite Pixar films like "Toy Story", "Cars", and "Monsters Inc." Later in the year, the Pixar Play Parade will make its way through Disneyland for the first time. It will also see new elements with the likes of "Up" and "Inside Out." 

The Pixar Shorts Film Festival will also be running with rotating favorites such as "For the Birds" and "Lava" at the Sunset Showcase Theatre in Hollywood Land in Disney California Adventure throughout most of the festival. The Paradise Gardens area will feature a new Pixar-themed musical troupe along with Pixar character greeting opportunities as well as crafts and activities for our younger guests.

There will also be plenty of new merchandise, including an exclusive bracelet that will have multiple charm options with fun, friendship messages, and our favorite Pixar characters. The celebration begins April 13.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Hotel Plus Parking & Transportation Improvements Coming to Disneyland in 2021

News just broke a little while ago of a new Four Diamond Hotel being built in Disneyland by 2021. The hotel will transform the West End of the Downtown Disney District and anchor a new gateway into Disneyland.

The new 700-room hotel will feature a sophisticated design and be a game-changer for Anaheim, creating a dynamic dining, entertainment and hotel experience for resort visitors and local residents. Extensive landscaping and water elements will create a resort oasis, showcasing nature on every level of the hotel. The hotel’s location embraces the iconic Disneyland Monorail with a dedicated platform inside the hotel for direct transport into Disneyland park.

Guest rooms, public spaces and gardens will provide views of the Downtown Disney District. An upper-level restaurant and lounge will give guests a view of the popular Disneyland park fireworks.

The ground level of the hotel will include shops and restaurants opening onto an expansive landscaped plaza complete with playful water features, creating a gathering place for guests and visitors. The new hotel will also connect all four Hotels of the Disneyland Resort through lush gardens and beautifully landscaped walkways, transforming the gateway on the west side and creating a welcoming entry for our Disneyland Resort guests.

The new grand hotel will benefit the community as well, generating approximately $25 million n new taxes in its first five years of operation that go directly to Anaheim’s general fund. It will also create thousands of additional construction and permanent jobs and attract new guests to the resort area. Construction is scheduled to begin Summer 2018 and be completed by 2021. 

With the new hotel being built it will also see many current places in the Downtown Disney District be demolished. This will include popular places like ESPN Zone, AMC Theatre, Earl of Sandwich, Starbucks, and Rainforest Cafe as the new hotel takes up 17 acres of the Downtown Disney District West Side. Officials have reportedly begun telling the tenants of their plans and some may even begin operating inside the hotel. 

Not only is a brand new Four Diamond Hotel being built but a brand new 6,500 parking structure will also be built. The new structure will be built on the current Pinocchio surface parking lot next Mickey & Friends.

This new 6,500-space structure is designed to dramatically improve parking and traffic flow throughout the resort. It is expected to significantly speed up guest arrival by providing a 60 percent increase in the number of access lanes and adding additional parking capacity on the west side of the resort.

The additional parking capacity and access lanes will streamline vehicle arrivals on the west side of the resort and eliminate backups onto city streets. In addition, the tram boarding area will be reconfigured to enhance the transportation experience for guests parking at both the new structure and Mickey & Friends. 

Construction on the new parking structure will begin sometime in 2018 and be completed by the following year.

Sources: Disney Parks Blog
               Orange County Register
               Disney Parks Blog