Disney Announces Ways you can Celebrate Disney 100 at Walt Disney World

 With Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary officially over, Disney has officially begun celebrating its 100th anniversary in Orlando. This week they shared just some ways we can celebrate The Walt Disney Company's 100th Anniversary. First off would be meeting Mickey and Minnie in their platinum best.

EPCOT will be the center of Disney's 100th celebration at Walt Disney World later this year. As the parks transformation continues and is expected to be completed later this year. As Mickey and Minnie have been meeting guests in their brand new platinum best on the west coast at Disneyland, they will be dressed in their platinum bests at EPCOT later this year. More details on where guests will be able to meet them will be coming soon. 

There's more to celebrate at EPCOT later this year as we know that Journey of Water: Inspired by Water will open later this year as well as a new nighttime spectacular is expected to light the skies. Disney also shared a sneak peak of a new special Spaceship Earth lighting that will debut later this year as well. 

“The Show Lighting Team at Walt Disney Imagineering has been amazed at our guests’ reaction to the nightly shows on Spaceship Earth,” said Jason Read, show lighting designer principal for Walt Disney Imagineering. “We’ve helped celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World, EPCOT’s 40th and the park’s signature festivals. Now, we’re excited to have Spaceship Earth ring in the biggest celebration yet, the 100th Anniversary of the Walt Disney Company.”

Appearing over the last few weeks at each of the four parks plus Disney Springs, are the new Disney100 backdrops.

This photo op is perfect for the entire family and is a perfect start to your day at the parks. Guests should also be prepared for special and unique character meet & greets. As the celebration ramps up at Walt Disney World, guests may run into some of their favorite characters dressed in their platinum best as they pop up at various Walt Disney World resorts.

A celebration at Walt Disney World wouldn't be a celebration without new food, drinks, and of course merchandise. Beginning on May 1, at Amorette's Patisserie in Disney Springs, a new limited Disney100 petite cake will be available for a limited time. The dessert will feature layers of vanilla chiffon, berry mousse and berry compote, all topped with a celebratory Disney100 medallion macaron.

Disney100 merchandise has already showed up at the Walt Disney World Resort, soon a new Disney100 Cinderella premium popcorn bucket will be released exclusively at Magic Kingdom.

Stay tuned for when it will make its grand debut. For now guests can enjoy drinks and popcorn in the new Disney100 refillable cups available now at Walt Disney World hotels and popcorn buckets available at all four parks and Disney Springs. 

Limited release merchandise is available across Walt Disney World where you can cherish nostalgic memories with the Decades collection, most recently the 40s-themed Disney100 decades collection which features "Fantasia," "The Three Caballeros," "Pinocchio," and "Dumbo."

This is just the beginning as there will be more ways to celebrate Disney100 in the months to come.

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

Changes and Goodbyes Recently Announced for Walt Disney World

We all knew it was coming with Walt Disney World being closed for over 100 days the budget was being cut on multiple projects that were announced just last year at the D23 Expo. We also received word of saying goodbye to 2 attractions officially and a surprise cut of a nighttime show. Over the last few days it was announced that both the Spaceship Earth refurbishment and the addition of the Mary Poppins attraction in the United Kingdom are officially postponed and major changes are being made to World Celebration. 

With Spaceship Earth we recently had the announcement the the refurbishment was delayed it is now postponed. The closure that was supposed to begin May 26 but with the extended park closure due to Covid-19 which has caused massive budget cuts across the parks it has now been indefinitely postponed. If the refurbishment ever gets back on the table it is expected to take 2 and half years with the reimagining including a new show building and exit attraction that was announced at last years D23 Expo.

The re-imagination of Spaceship Earth is not the only thing postponed in Epcot as the Cherry Tree Lane addition to the United Kingdom was also removed from the Walt Disney World projects due to budget cuts. With no expected completion date ever announced it was feared that this would be cut as construction never began for the addition.

With the removal/postponements of these two exciting additions to Epcot major changes are also coming to the new area in Epcot World Celebration also announced recently at last years D23 Expo in August. 

This will include changes to the Festival Center in World Celebration. While Disney stated the work is expected to resume on the new area soon it announced they will be making changes to the originally planned Festival Center, however what those changes are were not announced. So stay tuned for future updates on World Celebration and the Festival Center in Epcot.

With all that news coming on Wednesday, it was announced yesterday in a Cast Member memo that we would be officially saying goodbye to 2 attractions and surprisingly an nighttime show. At Magic Kingdom it was finally officially announced that Stitch's Great Escape is officially not reopening. This is after going seasonal a few years ago and last year when it was discovered that the Stitch animatronic was burned and destroyed. 

This has been rumored for a while to be replaced by a Wreck-it-Ralph attraction however that is now tabled for the unseeable future due to Covid-19 and the budget cuts. Also being cut over at Disney's Animal Kingdom is Primeval Whirl over in Dinoland, USA. The ride was recently put in seasonal operation just a few months ago and was operating during peak season. When Animal Kingdom opened up on July 11 the ride had been removed from maps in the park. 

The most shocking news from yesterday's memo though was the removal and permanent closure of Rivers of Light. The nighttime spectacular which debuted in 2017 had already seen one update just last year. There was no reason stated as to why they were ending the show's run as it was rumored to receive a major update within the next year or so although as there is no set return for any fireworks or nighttime shows due to the current of any major crowding at the parks due to the pandemic. 

Details on all these changes seem to be ever changing but as always stay tuned for any future updates right here on It All Started With a Mouse.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Look at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run:


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

First Look at Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance:

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

First Look at Edna Mode Coming to Disney Parks:

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

Japan Signature Restaurant Confirmed:

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

No More Shenanigans at Whispering Canyon Cafe:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: WDW News Today

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

Space-Themed Restaurant in Epcot Location Revealed:

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

RUMOR: Epcot Entrance Hotel Work to Begin Soon:

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

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

We still await Disney to officially announce the resort.

Source: WDW News Today

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

Morimoto Asia's Sakura Festival Now at Disney Springs:

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

'Black Panther' Slashes Box Office for Fifth Straight Weekend; Imagineering Job Opens for Wonders of Life Pavilion

'Black Panther' Slashes Box Office for Fifth Straight Weekend:

One of the quickest films ever to top $1 billion globally, "Black Panther" slashed its way to number 1 at the box office domestically for the fifth straight weekend. The film is expected to bring in another $27 million this weekend topping Warner Bros. "Tomb Raider" which is intended to rack in $22 million for the weekend. 

Since its release in mid-February the film has brought in $605 million domestically and $1.183 billion worldwide. It is the first film since "Avatar" to top the box office for 5 straight weeks, in which that film topped the box office for 7 straight weeks in 2009. 

"Black Panther" is playing on 3,834 screens in the United States. There is no telling when "Black Panther" will relinquish its hold on number 1 at the box office. 

Source: Forbes

Imagineering Job Opens for Wonders of Life Pavilion:

Just a few weeks ago, Walt Disney executives and Imagineers were seen looking at the former Wonders of Life Pavilion. It was then later discovered that the pavilion which has housed many of Epcot's Festival Centers for years since the pavilion/attractions closed would no longer be home to the Festival Center. Over the last few weeks, rumors have been swirling about what could possibly be going in the pavilion. 

Yesterday, a job in Imagineering for the interior of the Wonders of Life pavilion opened. Requirement for the job titled “Interior Designer – EC Wonder of Life" include, 3 years experience with Walt Disney Imagineering or another architecture or interior design firm and commercial design experience primarily in the Retail or Hospitality sectors. 

One of the main responsibilities of the job will be the “design and production of a shop/restaurant or attraction” under the direction of a Senior or Principal Interior Designer. Additional responsibilities of the job will include the development of varied Interior Design project work at all stages of assigned projects from concept, feasibility or schematic design, through the preparation of construction documentation in accordance with established departmental and divisional quality standards. The candidate will also support the implementation of the design intent as a member of the project design team, and ensure that the interior design intent is achieved by successfully integrating design with allied disciplines, such as architecture, lighting, graphics, structural engineering, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing.

Whether we are going to be seeing the development of the space-themed restaurant that was announced at D23 in July or even a rumored Black Panther-themed pavilion (a mini Wakanda), something is happening in the former Wonders of Life pavilion. We just may soon find out what is actually going in there. 

Source: WDW News Today

2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Dates Announced; Wheezy Installed in Toy Story Land

2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Dates Announced:

For the 23rd year, Epcot will once again welcome guests for the 2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. This year's festival will bring 75 days of fun, entertainment, events, and of course the main course of the festival in delicious food and tasty drinks. 

This year's festival will begin August 30 and run through November 12, 2018. This year’s festival will also continue the tradition of fine dining events, appearances by favorite Disney culinarians and top celebrity chefs, and a slate of concerts from favorite bands of the last few decades.

While very little details for the 23rd annual festival, guests can watch TasteEpcot.com for updates and be sure to stay tuned in the future for more details on this year's celebrity chef events, "Eat to Beat" concerts, dining packages, Marketplace Menus, and so much more.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Wheezy Installed Inside Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios:

We are all patiently waiting for June 30 to arrive for when Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios to open. Today, the Disney Parks Blog shared an image of Wheezy being installed by Walt Disney Imagineers inside the amazing new land.

You can see Wheezy and all of Toy Story Land when it opens for guests on June 30, 2018. 

What is Disney Planning for Former River Country Site?

It appears Disney is planning something for the former River Country as permits have been filed for the land. According to the filing, Disney is embarking on some geotechnical borings on Walt Disney World's first water park. When this is done it is to see if a piece of land is suitable for a construction project.

It could possibly be for a new hotel, as Disney filed a similar permit for the unannounced as of yet for the hotel at the entrance to Epcot. River Country opened on June 20, 1976 and then closed indefinitely in 2001. Disney announced that the water park would be closed permanently. Since the land where the water park once stood has been abandoned and closed off for trespassers. 

Source: WDW News Today

Walt Disney World Updates from the D23 Expo Japan Last Night

Due to some extenuating circumstances last night I didn't get to share all the news that was shared last night/or this morning at the D23 Expo Japan by Disney Parks & Resorts President Bob Chapek. Although as much as we were hoping to hear an official opening date for Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios, that was not to be as it was not announced. We are still in the dark as to when it will open even though the long heard rumors still remain as Memorial Day weekend are as strong as ever.

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway will open sometime in 2019 and we got some new concept art (seen above) along with some new details on the ride. It will feature a brand new catchy theme songcreated especially for the attraction as well as a new experience that defies logic that we’re calling 2 ½-D. No glasses required.

On the attraction, the fun begins when guests will see the premiere of a new cartoon short with Mickey and Minnie getting ready for a picnic. As they head out, they drive alongside a train and find out that the engineer is Goofy. Then, one magical moment lets you step into the movie and on Goofy’s train for a wacky, wild ride.

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will put guests inside the wacky and unpredictable world of a Mickey Mouse Cartoon Short where they're the star and anything can happen.

Also opening in 2019 will be Star Wars: Galaxies Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios, but that wasn't the news they strove for as we got more details on the most-immersive resort that will be built on a Disney Parks property. The new Star Wars' themed resort will combine luxury and complete immersion into the Star Wars Universe.

Guests will take a multi-day journey by boarding a starship that will be alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them during a voyage through the galaxy. They will become active citizens in the galaxy and even dress in proper attire during their stay. Every resort window will have a view into space. 

The opportunity for immersion at this resort will also stand out among all Disney resorts around the globe, as it will be seamlessly connected to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This will allow for a total Star Wars experience that is out of this world. There is no official opening date for the Star Wars-inspired resort.

It was confirmed a while ago that the Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired attraction coming to Epcot that it would be a roller coaster, last night Bob Chapek officially confirmed that. The one-of-a-kind family attraction will be one of the world’s longest enclosed roller coasters when it’s added to Future World at Epcot. It will feature a unique story created by Walt Disney Imagineering that will 'wow' guests as part of a new innovative ride system. 

 “As we build upon its core mission of optimism and hope to inspire the world, the real will become fantastic and the fantastic will become real—in whole new ways at Epcot,” Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, said.

This amazing attraction will open in time for Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom's 50th Anniversary in 2021.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Ticket Prices, Parking, Minnie Van Service, and Locker Rentals Price Increases Go Into Effect Today

As it was reported just a few days ago that tickets at Walt Disney World would once again see a price increase, as they do around this time every year.  That was in fact true as ticket prices did increase as of today. You can get a complete rundown of just how much everything is increasing by reading my post from the other day here. 

Tickets weren't the only thing that increased today however as parking, use of the Minnie Van Service, and locker rentals at the park also saw price increases today. 

Parking:

Regular Parking saw an increase from $20 to $22, a $2 increase. Preferred Parking saw a $5 increase going from $40 to $45. As always once a guest purchases parking for one park, parking for the rest of the day at any of the other parks at no additional cost with receipt. 

Minnie Van Service:

The new Minnie Van Service that just began in July after the D23 Expo announcement will also see a price increase. It will no longer cost $20 to get anywhere on property as it will now cost $25 per trip to get you anywhere.

Locker Rentals:

As of right now there hasn't been any reports of how much locker rentals at the parks have gone up so stay tuned as once we find out it will be right here. 

Updates Coming for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts at D23 Expo Japan; American Adventure Adding Icons & More During Refurbishment

Updates Coming for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts at D23 Expo Japan Sunday Night:

The D23 Expo in Japan kicked off yesterday and and tomorrow night around 10:15 p.m. ET, the Walt Disney Parks & Resorts panel will kick off. The panel will feature multiple updates from Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek that you won't want to miss. 

Stay tuned right here on It All Started With a Mouse for updates, maybe we will finally get the official opening date for Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

American Adventure Adding New Icons & More During Refurbishment:

A few weeks ago The American Adventure was closed for a month long refurbishment. Not much was known about the refurbishment until yesterday. Right now Imagineers at Epcot are busy converting the original film into an all-digital projection system as well as installing a new screen and speakers. This will enhance the film to make it look and sound better than ever when it reopens later this month. 

That's not all as the final scene of the film, guests will notice some new and familiar faces of American icons. These include legendary music composer John Williams, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, and noted ballerina Misty Copeland. 

Oh and one more thing, the iconic "Golden Dream' has been re-recorded with all-new orchestration that brings the beloved music and lyrics to life in a way that will resonate more than ever. Spread your golden wings, America. This classic attraction is coming back with even more American pride. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Annual Walt Disney World Ticket Increases Expected to Go Into Effect This Sunday

It's that time of year again and is expected that Walt Disney World ticket prices for both regular guests and Annual PassHolders will go into effect this Sunday, February 11. Here is what is rumored to be the changes for this coming year:

Magic Kingdom Single Day Tickets:

• Value: From $107 to $109; $2 increase
• Regular: From $115 to $119; $4 increase
• Peak: From $124 to $129: $5 increase

Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Single Day Tickets:

• Value: From $99 to $102; $3 increase
• Regular: From $107 to $114; $7 increase
• Peak: From $119 to $122; $3 increase

Park Hopper Option for Single Day Tickets:

• Value: From $162 to $164; $2 increase
• Regular: From $170 to $174; $4 increase
• Peak: From $174 to $184; $10 increase

Multi-Day Park Tickets:

• 2-Day - From $199 to $209; $10 increase
• 3-Day - From $289 to $325; $36 increase
• 4-Day - From $350 to $400; $50 increase
• 5-Day - From $370 to $415; $45 increase

Annual Passholders:

Disney Silver Pass - New: $419 to $439, a $20 increase. Renewal: $356 to $373, a $17 increase

Disney Gold Pass - New: $559 to $589, a $30 increase. Renewal: $475 to $500, a $25 increase

Disney Platinum Pass - New Florida Resident - $679 to $729, $50 increase. Renewal: $653 to $704,  a $51 increase. Non-Resident New: $779 to $849, a $70 increase. Renewal: $662 to $721, a $59 increase.

Disney Platinum Plus Pass - New Florida Resident: $769 to $829, a $60 increase. Renewal: $653 to $704, a $51 increase. Non-Resident New: $869 to $949, a $80 increase. Renewal: $738 to $806, a $68 increase. 

These new prices do not include tax. As in recent year's the old prices are in effect until they officially increase which is expected to go into effect this Sunday, February 11. 

Source: WDW News Today

Is This The Opening Date for TRON Lightcycle?; Walt Disney World's 'Incredible Summer at All 4 Parks

Is This The Opening Date for TRON Lightcycle Power Run?

According to recent permit filings, an opening date just may have been revealed for Magic Kingdom's newest coaster in the TRON Lightcycle Power Run. Announced last July at the D23 Expo, the coaster is expected to be done just in time for the park's 50th Anniversary. With this new permit filing that just may be true as filings show that work is expected to be done barring delays will be completed by August 16, 2021.

Work on TRON Lightcycle Power Run is expected to begin this coming week in Tomorrowland on February 6. You can see the attraction which is the same as was built in Shanghai Disneyland ,although it is rumored the one Magic Kingdom is expected to be longer, and its complete run-through below:

Are you as excited as I am for the TRON Lightcycle Power Run coaster coming to the Magic Kingdom? 2021 can't come soon enough.

Walt Disney World's 'Incredible Summer' at All 4 Parks:

We are just a few months away from Summer kicking off at Walt Disney World. Yesterday, several new experiences were announce for the 'Incredible Summer' kicking off at all four parks and Disney Springs. Check out what was announced below:

Magic Kingdom:

The Incredibles will be taking over Tomorrowland for an incredible dance party. Guests can party with Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, and Frozone from Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and the soon-to-be blockbuster “Incredibles 2.” Edna Mode, the greatest superhero costume designer, will also make her debut appearance. Each evening, guests can enjoy a “SUPER” dance party on the Rocket Tower Stage. [NOTE: Disney•Pixar’s “Incredibles 2” opens in theaters June 15, 2018.]

Epcot:

Guardians of the Galaxy featuring Star-Lord and Gamora and be joined by an alien band will be taking the stage this Summer at Epcot. The party will feature hits from Awesome Mixtapes 1 and 2 – fun and favorite tunes from the two movies’ soundtracks – building the anticipation for a new Epcot Guardians of the Galaxy attraction coming to the park in 2021.

Animal Kingdom:

There will be two new 'incredible' experiences coming just in time for Animal Kingdom's 20th Anniversary. First up, guests will discover new bird species from around the world in the new show, "Explorers Meet UP! A Great Bird Adventure" which stars Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and Dug. There will also be a 'dino-tastic' celebration where Donald Duck takes over Dinoland, USA in a new character celebration. 

That's not all as beginning tomorrow Jose and Panchito from "The Three Caballeros" will join the Discovery Island Carnivale through May 5. The nightly dance party celebrates the beauty and harmony of all living things in the form of an exuberant dance party that features cheerful music from the Viva Gaia Street Band!, spectacular costumes inspired by the living creatures of the air, land and sea, and more.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

The big hit this summer of course will be Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Of course no official opening date has been announced, although still expected to be Memorial Day Weekend. Guests can expect to enjoy 2 brand new attractions in Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers and a new quick service restaurant in Woody's Lunch Box in the new 11-acre land. 

Stay tuned for an official opening date of Toy Story Land which should be announced in the coming days or weeks. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog