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.

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.

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.

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. 

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

Special Character Greetings at Magic Kingdom for Easter; Reservations Now Open for Pixar-Themed Play Zone at Contemporary

Special Character Greetings at Magic Kingdom for Easter:

Beginning Monday, March 19 Magic Kingdom will hop into Easter season with some special character meet & greets for guests. This will include a visit from the Easter Bunny himself from Monday until April 1 (Easter) in the Town Square Courtyard. 

That's not all as there will be a special pre-parade (before Festival of Fantasy) on March 31 and April 1 guests will be treated to a plethora of characters marching their way down Main Street featuring Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny, Daisy Duck, Thumper and Ms. Bunny, White Rabbit (Alice in Wonderland), Rabbit (Winnie the Pooh), Clara Cluck, Hippos, Ostriches, Dancing Chicks, and the Azalea Trail Maids from Mobile, Alabama.

Characters and events are subject to change without notice. Will you be visiting Walt Disney World this Easter season?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Reservations Now Open for Pixar-Themed Play Zone at Disney's Contemporary:

Last week, it was announced that a brand new child immersed program would begin next month at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Reservations are now open for the pilot program, called the Pixar Play Zone. It will be available nightly for kids 4-12 as they are transported into a world of their favorite characters from "Toy Story" and "The Incredibles." 

In Bonnie’s Play Room, children will find a variety of toys. Around the corner, the Living Room will be the center for most of the action, starting with Space Ranger Training where a Space Ranger will teach kids what it takes to become a Jr. Space Ranger of Star Command, including how to identify enemies, like Zurg, and finally, the call of the Space Ranger, “To infinity and beyond!” Then, Woody and Jessie will show them the ropes of the Wild West during Woody’s Roundup – complete with a sing along for a rootin’ tootin’ good time!

Next to the Living Room will be the Radiator Springs Racetrack where youngsters will be able to build their own racecars and take turns sending them down a soapbox derby racetrack for Piston Cup Derby Races. Finally, they will learn some sweet dance moves during the Incredible Dance Party with Mr. Incredible and Mrs. Incredible that will be complete with a party host. That's not all as the night will include arcade games, dinner, and dessert.

The Pixar Play Zone will open doors for check-in at 5 p.m. where the experience will begin at the welcome desk, a stop at the "Monsters Inc." handwashing station, then at Boo's Closet Door, where kids will be able to store their belongings. The event will run from 6-10:30 p.m. for $65 per child (plus tax). Parents must be present for check-in and checkout and all children must be fully toilet-trained. You can now reserve this experience for your children by calling 407-824-KIDS.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

ICYMI: Be Our Guest Becoming Signature Dining for Dinner Plus a Brand New Menu

News broke mid-week with a blog post on the Disney Parks Blog that a new enhanced dining experience would be coming to Be Our Guest. With this new menu the restaurant that has been highly popular since it opened almost 5 years ago will now become a Signature Dining experience for dinner and if you are on the Disney Dining Plan it will cost 2 Table-Service credits. The restaurant will remain a quick service location for lunch and will remain serving breakfast as well. 

Back to dinner as now the new menu will be a prix fixe menu that will boast delectable French-inspired dishes and new offerings. The new and unique experience will allow guests to enjoy a wonderful 3-course meal with there choice of an appetizer and an entree, and then ending with a personal dessert platter. 

To start off the meal, the appetizer menu will include favorites like the French Onion Soup in addition to rich new offerings like Charred Octopus with citrus-laced fingerling potatoes, pickled hearts of palm and red pepper coulis; Escargot with herb garlic butter and toasted gremolata (pictured above); and a selection of assorted meats and artisanal cheeses such as chicken liver pâté, chorizo sausage Manchego, and truffle tremor.

For the main course, feast on mouth-watering entrées such as Grilled Center-Cut Filet Mignon with potato au gratin, Romano beans, Cipollini marmalade and a cherry-laced red wine reduction(pictured below) and the Smoked Black-Eye Pea Tortellini with roasted seasonal vegetables, tomato relish and basil-scented tomato water. Other enticing dishes include Poulet Rouge Chicken, Saffron-Infused Seafood Bouillabaisse, Roasted Lamb Chops and Kurobuta Pork Tenderloins (pictured above).

The chefs are currently working on a new dessert menu as well as a kids menu for this new and exquisite dining experience. Stay tuned in the coming months for updates on those menus as well. The new enhanced dining experience will begin July 27 and you now can make reservations by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or by booking online.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Geppetto's Dinner Buffet Offering Coming; 'Up! A Great Bird Adventure' Show Debuts April 22

Geppetto's Dinner Buffet Offering Coming to Pinocchio Village Haus:

While Disney has yet to announce the offering, it looks like Pinocchio Village Haus will become a sit-down table-service restaurant. A new limited time offering will turn the quick service into Geppetto's Village Haus Buffet. The buffet service will be available from 4 p.m. until close daily. 

While nothing is official it is rumored that is offering could begin as early as March 5. It will be priced as $22 for adults and $12 for children ages 3-9. The menu is expected to be Italian themed with offerings such as multiple salads, baked ziti, meatballs, pasta alfredo, chicken parmesan, flatbreads, breadsticks, cannolis, and Italian cakes. A menu has not been finalized. 

During the Early Morning Magic Hours, a breakfast buffet was offered inside Pinocchio Village Haus, so this wouldn't be the first time a buffet would be offered at the restaurant. 

"UP! A Great Bird Adventure" Show to Debut April 22:

In celebration of Disney's Animal Kingdom 20th Anniversary, the new show replacing Flights of Wonder, "UP! A Great Bird Adventure" show will debut April 22. 

Beginning just in time for the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, this new entertainment experience for the whole family offers guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world in their newest adventure in Anandapur village. There will be “UP” close encounters each day with amazing winged creatures!

Check out new concept art for the new show the was released yesterday.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Talking Mickey to go Silent in May; Not-So-Scar Halloween Party Starting Earlier Than Ever in August

Talking Mickey at Magic Kingdom to go Silent in May:

It looks like Mickey is going silent according to reports today. The meet and greet inside Town Square Theater at Magic Kingdom debuted back in 2013. It is rumored but likely confirmed by sources that handle the offering that Mickey will officially stop talking with guests on May 12, 2018. 

There have been a variety of rumors of why Mickey is going silent, one being it was confusing guests that he was the only talking Mickey of all the meet & greets at Walt Disney World. Another one was how expensive it was compared to the other entertainer contracts it took to do this offering. 

Of course Mickey will continue meeting with guests beyond this date, but will no longer be communicating with them. 

Source: WDW News Today

Could Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to Start Earlier Than Ever in August?:

Last year, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party began for the first time ever in August when the first party kicked off on August 31. This year according to internal park hours it looks like the party will begin even earlier with the first party on August 17. This is the first date that appears with a park closing at 6 p.m.

Magic Kingdom started closing for non-party guests last year at 6 p.m. instead of the usual 7 p.m. that it had closed years before. Other rumored party dates for August with the park closing at 6 p.m. are August 21, 24, 28, and 31. 

These are not official dates as of yet as Disney hasn't announced dates for the parties yet. Hours for September are available as well but not October as of yet. 

Source: Blog Mickey

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. 

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

Star Wars: Galactic Nights Returning in May; Happily Ever After Moving to Earlier Start Time

Star Wars: Galactic Nights Returning in May:

Star Wars: Galactic Nights will return to Disney's Hollywood Studios this May 27, two days after the premiere of "Solo: A Star Wars Story." The after park hours event will be held from 7 p.m. until midnight. It celebrates the entire Star Wars saga with out-of-this-world entertainment, special photo opportunities, event-exclusive merchandise and food and beverage, and encounters with rarely seen characters that guests can only experience during Star Wars: Galactic Nights. Here is some of the stuff you can expect:

Star Wars: Galactic Destinations Projections Transform The Hollywood Tower Hotel – Visible on the Sunset Boulevard area of the park the facade of the Hollywood Tower Hotel will transform via stunning projection technology to showcase familiar locations from across the galaxy. Favorite film moments, special effects, lighting, and of course the stellar Star Wars cinematic score supports each galactic location moment all night long. Star Wars Galactic Destinations is currently an event exclusive.

Existing Star Wars Entertainment Will Debut New Enhancements – The park’s existing Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks and the Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away stage show will both debut new saga elements for the first time during Star Wars: Galactic Nights.

Special Photo Ops – Throughout the park, guests can step into immersive and iconic scenes from their favorite Star Wars films in a series of incredibly detailed photo locations. These special photo ops will only be available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during Star Wars: Galactic Nights

Character Encounters – Expect to encounter Star Wars characters from throughout the galaxy. Guests will also be able to view an Imperial Stormtrooper March with Darth Vader.

Exclusive Food & Beverage offerings – Taste your way around the galaxy with specialty food and beverage offerings created for Galactic Nights. Inspired by the stories and iconic characters of Star Wars, these tasting-sized sips and bites bring a delectable addition to this event.

Enjoy park attractions – Select attractions will be open to all guests – and some may even offer a special Star Wars twist on May 27 only.

Stay tuned in the coming months for more information on Star Wars: Galactic Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Happily Ever After Moving to Earlier Start Time:

Happily Ever After has officially moved to an earlier start time at least for the winter months. The fireworks spectacular from now until March 10, 2018 will move to be presented at 7:55 p.m. nightly. Originally, the show was presented at 8 p.m. nightly. No reason has been given as to why the spectacular was moved to 5 minutes earlier nightly.

Egg-stravaganza Hunt Returns Plus New Scavenger Hunt Coming; Some Applications for Club 33 at Walt Disney World Sent Out

Egg-stravaganza Hunt Returns Plus New Scavenger Hunt Coming for Flower & Garden:

Beginning March 16 through April 1, the Egg-stravaganza scavenger hunt will return to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Guests can hunt high and low in World Showcase for 'eggs' that portray their favorite Disney characters. 

As you find the hidden Disney Character-themed “eggs” in the park, you record your discoveries by placing a corresponding sticker on a specially themed Egg-stravaganza map. Maps and stickers can be purchased for $5.99, plus tax at the following parks and locations Disney Trader, Pin Central, and World Traveler. When guests find all of the “eggs” and complete their scavenger hunt map, they can then return it to Disney Traders for a sp-egg-tacular surprise.

That's not all as a new scavenger hunt will be hitting this year's Flower & Garden Festival called Spike's Pollen Nation Exploration. During this hunt, guests will follow along with Disney's favorite honey bee, Spike, who has been pollinating around the festival, giving gardeners of any age the chance to follow his pollination trail around World Showcase. 

Just pick up a garden map and stickers at Port of Entry. Then, it’s time to look for Spike!

As guests explore the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, be on the lookout for Spike as he pollinates Epcot’s gardens. In each garden, they'll have to search for the plant Spike has pollinated, identifiable by Spike himself and a Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration plant stake. Once they find him, add the corresponding sticker to your map.

After they find everything they can return their completed map for a springtime surprise. Maps and stickers for Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration can be purchased for $5.99, plus tax at Port of Entry. This year's Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival runs February 28 through May 28, 2018. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Some Applications for Club 33 at Walt Disney World Sent Out:

It appears some applications for Walt Disney World's Club 33 have been sent out to select individuals at Golden Oak, the upscale community near the theme park. Registration costs and annual dues have also been released which are $25,000 for registration and annual dues will be in the neighborhood of $15,000 per year. 

Although not officially announced, Walt Disney World's Club 33 will have an exclusive club in each of the four parks. Construction has already begun for location like Magic Kingdom's Club 33 in the Adventureland Veranda. There have been no official locations announced however or any opening dates. 

Source: WDW Info