Permit Reveals Placement of TRON Coaster and Main Street Theater

A permit filed by Walt Disney Imagineering has shown just exactly where the Main Street Theater and the TRON Coaster will be placed in the Magic Kingdom. Both projects are considered to be a part of Tomorrowland.

The Main Street Theater is labeled as MK1 and is behind the old Galaxy Palace Theater in Tomorrowland but guests will access the theater via Main Street, USA. The Theater will occupy most of what is a parking lot Southwest of Carousel of Progress.

The TRON Lightcycle Power RUN coaster at least the show building is labeled as MK2 in the permit. The footprint of the building is almost due north of Space Mountain and is larger than Space Mountain. It will be very visible from afar just like Space Mountain is now.

The Main Street Theater is expected to be completed by sometime in 2020 as filed in an earlier permit while the TRON Coaster won't be completed until 2021.

Disney Looking to Buy Part of 21st Century Fox; New Christmas Party Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card

Disney Looking to Buy Part of 21st Century Fox:

News broke yesterday afternoon that 21st Century Fox is looking to sell part of their company to the Walt Disney Company. Although it appears talks are stalled at the moment on the deal. The deal would not include Fox News Network, Fox Business, or Fox Sports Networks. Here is the article from CNBC by David Faber:

21st Century Fox has been holding talks to sell most of the company to Disney: Sources

21st Century Fox has been holding talks to sell most of the company to Walt Disney Co., leaving behind a media company tightly focused on news and sports, according to people familiar with the situation.

The talks have taken place over the last few weeks and there is no certainty they will lead to a deal. The two sides are not currently talking at this very moment, but given the on again, off again nature of the talks, they could be revisited.

For Fox, the willingness to engage in sale talks with Disney stems from a growing belief among its senior management that scale in media is of immediate importance and there is not a path to gain that scale in entertainment through acquisition. The company is said to believe that a more tightly focused group of properties around news and sports could compete more effectively in the current marketplace.

The media landscape has changed considerably in recent years with giants such as Facebook, Google (Alphabet), Amazon and Netflix changing the way people consume media and dominating the digital distribution of digital video content. Being able to compete in that changing landscape, many people believe, requires scale that a Disney has, but 21st Century Fox does not.

For Disney, the opportunity to take control of another movie studio and significant TV production assets as it readies a direct-to-consumer entertainment streaming offering is attractive as is Fox's significant exposure to international markets, such as the U.K., Germany and Italy — both through its networks and 39 percent ownership of Sky. Disney recently announced it will pull all of its movies from the Netflix platform and will establish two direct-to-consumer offerings: one for sports and one including its key franchises such as "Star Wars" and Marvel.

Disney would not purchase all of Fox, according to people with knowledge of the talks.

The company could not own two broadcast networks and would therefore not buy the Fox broadcast network. It would not buy Fox's sports programming assets in the belief that combining them with ESPN could be seen as anti-competitive from an antitrust standpoint and it would not buy the Fox News or Business channel. Disney would also not purchase Fox's local broadcasting affiliates, according to people familiar with the negotiations.

In addition to the movie studio, TV production and international assets such as Star and Sky, Disney would also add entertainment networks such as FX and National Geographic.

The contemplated structure of the deal or the price that has been discussed could not be learned. Given it would involve the sale of many, but not all of Fox's properties, it's unclear how Fox would mitigate potential tax consequences of a deal.

Officials at Disney and Fox declined to comment.

Source: CNBC

New Carousel of Progress Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card for Mickey's Very Merry:

With the first Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party taking place on Thursday, there is a new Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card being released for the party. This year's card features Rover from Carousel of Progress.

This year’s party-exclusive card, “Rover’s Christmas Carousel of Progress” features our trusty companion Rover from Carousel of Progress. According to Imagineer Jonathan Ackley, Carousel of Progress was chosen to be featured on this season’s card “because Merlin is inspired by the Carousel of Progress’ celebration of human innovation.”

The card will be available at the Firehouse on Main Street, USA where guests can pick up this party exclusive as well as complimentary cards and can purchase additional cards.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

TRON Lightcyle Power Run Coaster Confirmed; New Theater Coming to Magic Kingdom

TRON Lightcylce Power Run Coaster Confirmed for Tomorrowland:

What was rumored to be confirmed earlier in the week is officially confirmed. The TRON Lightcycle Power Run rollercoaster, that debuted last year when Shanghai Disneyland opened, is coming to Tomorrowland in Walt Disney World. 

The attraction will be placed right next to Space Mountain in an entirely new area. The Tomorrowland Speedway which was rumored to be going away will be staying and be re-routed due to the new attraction. 

The TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is a coaster-style attraction where riders board a train of two-wheeled Lightcycles. It offers access into the energy, lights and excitement of TRON’s high-tech universe and is one of the most thrilling adventures at any Disney park.

The attraction will open in time for Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary in 2021. 

New Theater Inspired by the Willis Wood Theater in Kansas City Coming to Magic Kingdom:

A brand new theater inspired a very famous theater from Kansas City is coming to Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. The theater inspired by the famous Willis Wood Theater in Kansas City, near Walt's hometown of Marceline. The new theater will be built right off Main Street, USA. 

“Across Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we’ve been upping the game in Entertainment with shows like Frozen Live at the Hyperion. It’s been a huge hit at the Disneyland Resort, and I’m sure many of you have seen it. This new theater at Walt Disney World continues that streak by bringing a new venue for world-class entertainment to the world’s biggest park," said Bob Chapek, President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. 

As to what will be performed here, that was not announced so stay tuned for future updates on the new theater coming to Main Street, USA. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Main Street Trolley Show Changes Due to Concrete Work; Captain America: Civil War As Told by LEGO

Main Street Trolley Show Changes Due to Concrete Work:

Due to some concrete work at the Magic Kingdom, the Main Street Trolley show will change on some select dates in June. The trolley show will use the Main Street U.S.A. Ranch Wagon instead of the trolley. The dates are June 5, 8, 12, 16, and 19. 

The use of the Ranch Wagon instead of the trolley allows for higher maneuverability down Main Street USA as some of the sections will be roped off due to the concrete work.

Source: Blog Mickey

"Captain America: Civil War" As Told by LEGO:

We've seen several films stories be told by emoji and some recently by LEGO. Today, Disney released "Captain America: Civil War" as told by LEGO. In this story we see Iron Man, Captain America, Scarlet Witch, Winter Soldier, and the Black Panther at the airport. Tune in to see what ensues:

New Magic Kingdom Welcome Show to Debut; New Spring & Summer Offers at Walt Disney World Resort

New Magic Kingdom Welcome Show to Debut January 9:

Update 1:33 P.M EST:
Here is the official information from the Disney Parks Blog:

Beginning January 9, guests will be allowed to enter the Main Street, U.S.A. area of the park even earlier than the park’s scheduled opening time. This will allow guests time to savor the charm of Main Street, U.S.A., enjoy breakfast or a warm drink at the Main Street Bakery featuring Starbucks. Then promptly at opening, a new welcome show will officially open the park for the day on the Castle Forecourt Stage. A Royal Herald will appear to deliver a proclamation and welcome a few familiar characters to the stage, officially opening the park so “the magic can begin!”

Original Story:
The Welcome Show at the Magic Kingdom is moving away from the Main Street Train Station. Beginning January 9, guests will be treated to a new Welcome Show in front of Cinderella Castle. To allow guests more space as Main Street, USA will be open earlier than the rest of the park opening.

Guests will enter Main Street, USA before the show begins and be able to have access to shopping, photo opportunities, as well as some select dining options being available. While no official time has been announced, guests should be able to enter Main Street, USA approximately 30 minutes before the official opening of Magic Kingdom.

The will allow less congestion in front of the train station allowing a more fluid running of bag checks and entering into the park. Stay tuned for more information.

Source: Blog Mickey

New Spring & Summer Offers at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels:

Today, Walt Disney World announced new Spring and Summer offers at select resorts that guests can begin taking advantage of beginning today. Spring 2017 offer will be save up to 25% at participating Walt Disney World Resort hotels, plus receive an extra day when upgrading to a Magic Your Way package with a minimum 4-night stay. This offer is good for stays most nights from February 20-June 10, 2017. To take advantage of the offer guests can book by February 26 for stays February 20 - June 10 or by booking by March 30 for stays April 9 - June 10, 2017. 

Important Details

• The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
• Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room.
• Additional per adult charges may apply if there are more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts.
• Advance reservations required.
• Moderate and Deluxe suites may be available at a lesser discount.
• Upgrade to a room and ticket package with minimum 4-day Magic Your Way theme park tickets, and receive one more complimentary ticket day.
• Tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use.

Offer Restrictions

• Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom villas, Disney's Art of Animation Resort - The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.
• Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion
• Length of stay requirements may apply.

For guests visiting Walt Disney World in the Summer, guests can take advantage of a free quick service meal per person (ages 3 and over) for regular non-discounted 5-night/6-day room and theme park ticket packages at a Disney Value Resort. This offer is valid for most nights from May 30 through August 24, 2017. Guests must book by February 12, 2017 to take advantage of this offer. Here are the details and exclusions:

Important Details

• The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
• Tickets and options must be used within 14 days of first use.
• All Guests in the room must be on the same package.
• Advance reservations required.
• Minimum 3-night length of stay is required.
• Minimum 2-day Magic Your Way base ticket purchase is required.

Offer Restrictions

• Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
• Offer excludes campsites and Disney’s Art of Animation – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms.
• Excludes alcoholic beverages and gratuities.
• Children ages 3 to 9 must choose from the children’s menu, if available.

To book by phone, call (407) 939-7728 to speak with a vacation planning expert or call your travel agent.

Tomorrow, October 1 is Magic Kingdom's 45th Anniversary

Tomorrow is Magic Kingdom's 45th Anniversary:

It is hard to believe that tomorrow will be the 45th Anniversary of Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the 40th Anniversary just 5 years ago. While I am younger and wasn't alive to appreciate the park when it opened 45 years ago on October 1, 1971, Disney World has been like a second home to me for my whole life. I didn't visit until the park was 20 years old itself when I visited the park for the first time at the age of 2 in 1991.

Think about this Walt brought the idea of a theme park to Central Florida in 1965, it was a park he wouldn't get to see open. His brother Roy dedicated the opening of the park on October 25, 1971. Roy would die just a few weeks later. It was a grand multi-property vacation destination for guests which included just two resorts, The Contemporary and The Polynesian Village Resort.

The Disney Parks Blog shared this today on their blog:

"Constructing a property of this size was no small task – and neither was celebrating the accomplishment of opening the world’s largest Disney property to-date. To celebrate, the resort held a three-day series of grand opening festivities that culminated on October 25 with the grand opening of Magic Kingdom Park."

The grand opening featured a 1,076-piece marching band and included a release of 50,000 balloons, and so much more. Here is Roy's dedication speech he made on October 25, 1971:


Today, the Walt Disney World Resort includes 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, the ever extensive shopping and entertainment district in Disney Springs, and more then two dozen resorts. 45 years later Walt and Roy's dream continue as Walt said himself, "We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths."

I will never forget all the countless trips I have made to Walt Disney World and there is no greater memory then entering Magic Kingdom, walking down Main Street, USA and just seeing how beautiful Cinderella Castle is. Even after my trip just last week I can't wait to plan my next trip to Walt Disney World and the Magic Kingdom celebrating 45 amazing years and so much more.

We already know that Walt Disney World will continue to grow with Pandora - The World of Avatar opening next year and Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land opening in the next few years. We can never forget that this dream and these parks all came thanks to the idea of man to bring joy and magic to people around the world. Here's to you Walt and let the magic of Walt Disney World continue for many more years to come.

Disney Parks Unboxed - Epcot Food & Wine Edition; Scoop Sanderson's Contract Not Renewed at Magic Kingdom

Disney Parks Unboxed - Epcot International Food & Wine Edition:

The 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is upon us as it begins next Wednesday, September 14. Today, Steven Miller of the Disney Parks Blog showed us some of the merchandise that will be available during this year's event. Here is what he unboxed for us:

Here are just some of the items that will be available at this year's festival including shirts, hats, accessories, drinkware, dinnerware, magnets, and so much more. Remy's Ratatouille Hide & Squeak will also return for this year's festival.

All the pins available at this year's Food & Wine Festival:

This year's 21st Epcot International Food & Wine Festival runs from September 14 through November 14, 2016.

Scoop Sanderson's Contract Not Renewed at Magic Kingdom:

One of your favorite Main Street characters won't be appearing at the Magic Kingdom much longer. Scoop Sanderson, one of the citizens of Main Street, USA, contract was not renewed and his last day will be October 8, according to LaughingPlace.com. 

Photo Credit: Holland Hayes' Facebook Page

The pin trading expert stopped trading pins recently but was still one of the lighthearted citizens that guests know and love. His portrayer, Holland Hayes, posted this on Facebook, as an almost goodbye to his fans:

"You know that sudden empty feeling of sad disappointment when you discover Scoop is not on Main Street today? Get ready to feel it a lot more.
More often I mean. It will still be brief, disappearing the instant you encounter one of the other dazzling Citizens of Main Street USA. Or handsome Leading Man and Magic Kingdom Park Vice President Dan Cockerell. Or at the very least you shall be restored upon entering one of the six other magical themed lands of The Most Magical Place on Earth
You’re gonna miss me!
And I you."

In the comment section he had posted that his contract wasn't renewed, however that he still will fill-in at Disney World when other cast members are on vacation or have called in.  We will surely miss you, Scoop.

ABC to Air Disneyland 60 Special in February Featuring Elton John, Pentatonix, and More

Just a few days ago, it was revealed that ABC will air a special on Disneyland's 60th Anniversary on The Wonderful World of Disney on February 21 at 8 p.m. (EST). Disney and ABC will be taping the show this Tuesday, January 12. Audience ticketing company 1iota is offering free tickets to the taping. Some of the performers to be featured during the show according 1iota are Sir Elton John, Pentatonix, and 'Dancing with the Stars' professional dancers Derek Hough and Witney Carson. More performers for the show are expected to be revealed this week.

According to Variety, "ABC will celebrate the inventiveness and inspiration of Walt Disney's big, bold creation with a star-studded Diamond Anniversary event, both in the heart of Hollywood at the Dolby Theater and throughout the most iconic locations at Disneyland Park, including Sleeping Beauty Castle and Main Street, USA, as well as Cars Land, a themed are of California Adventure Park." The special will also showcase two displays of technology in its news night shows in the "Paint the Night" parade and the "World of Color - Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney at Disney California Adventure. 

That's not all fans at home will also be able to participate during the show as ABC announced they can join in on Sir Elton John's performance. During the performance along with Disney Applause app, using Walt Disney Imagineering technology "Made With Magic" Applause delivers a second screen, an interactive experience that will sync directly with the broadcast's major musical segments, displaying colorful light shows and original content on viewers' phones. Their display will be in harmony with the illuminated accessories worn by guests and elaborate lighting design during the performance. 

Fans will also have a first ever opportunity that will allow guests to view a special performance in virtual reality through the Jaunt VR app. The app will transport fans into joining the celebration at Sleeping Beauty Castle for the musical superstar's concert and then to Main Street for a very special dance routine. A 360-degree view of the virtual reality elements will also be available on ABC.com. More details ABC's special on Disneyland's 60th are expected to be released in the coming weeks so stay tuned. 

California Grill to Offer 'Brunch at the Top' Beginning 2/7, Memory Maker Sees Price Reduction, and More

California Grill to Offer 'Brunch at the Top' Beginning 2/7:

The California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort will begin offering a Sunday Brunch in February called 'Brunch at the Top.' For the first time ever the restaurant, who usually offers the sights of the beautiful skyline around the Walt Disney World resort at night, will begin with the sights during the daytime.

The new Brunch at the Top is the perfect way to indulge on a leisurely Sunday – not quite breakfast, not quite lunch. Chef Brian Piasecki’s team is excited to launch a whole new menu to showcase their fresh, market-driven cuisine. Of course a glass of bubbly or wine (the restaurant has more than 1,600 bottles on display) pairs nicely. And there’s an over-the-top Bloody Mary Bar as well as cocktails and craft brews, as well as a signature brunch cocktail and faux “mimosas” for kids (though you can also stick with the custom-roast French press coffee).
To start the experience Brunch at the Top will offer an assortment of house-made breakfast pastries (such as caramel apple Monkey bread, Tillamock Cheddar biscuit, and cranberry scones pecan) delivered to your table with house-made jams and a orange blossom honey butter. At the show kitchen small tastes will be offered such as orange honey ham, deviled Lake Meadow Natural eggs, Greek Yogurt with vanilla-scented granola and fresh berries, kale and apple salad, among other offerings.

The main courses will be delivered table side and here is what you will choose from:

• Pan-Fried Buttermilk Organic Chicken Cutlet with Haricots Verts, Toasted Almonds, Frisée, Beurre Noisette;
• Sweet Potato Pancakes with Caramelized Heirloom Apples, Dried Cranberry and Raisin Compote, Vanilla
• Custard, Warm Canadian Maple Syrup;
• Shrimp and Grits, Gulf White Shrimp with Tillamook Cheddar Grits, Spicy Tomato Broth,
  Espellette-Spiced Tomato Ragout;
• Poached Lobster Benedict with Butter-Poached Tail, Two Soft-Poached Eggs, Honey Ham,
  Yuzu Hollandaise, Marble Potato Hash;
• Chef’s Frittata with Three Lake Meadow Farms Eggs, Florida Heirloom Tomatoes, Roasted Poblanos, Chorizo, Creamy Goat Cheese, Marble Potato Hash;
• Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Soft Poached Eggs, Chimichurri, Marble Potato Hash and Charred Red Onion.

For dessert if there is room will include sweet mini desserts, macaroons, and chocolate truffles all while enjoying the beautiful skyline. Cost will be $80 for adults and $48 for children ages 3-11. Reservations can be made beginning this Wednesday December 16 by calling 407-WDW-DINE or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/DINE.

Memory Maker Sees Price Reduction:

Disney announced today that their PhotoPass Memory Maker has decreased in price, a rarity for Disney. For guests who choose to purchase Memory Maker in advance the new price is $149, down from $169. For guests who choose not to purchase in advance the price will be $169, down from $199. 

Memory Maker allows guests with the special photo package to have all their family members included in photos. Guests simply go to Disney PhotoPass photographers around the resort and then guests are allowed to download the photos when they get home. It also allows you to download on-ride photos, receive Animated Magic shots, and as well as your photos taken in restaurants. 

Will you be purchasing Memory Maker the next time you visit Walt Disney World.

Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke Celebrates 90th at Disneyland:

Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke celebrated his 90th birthday yesterday at Disneyland along with family, friends, and fans. Van Dyke received a special dedication at the Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, a cavalcade parade down Main Street, USA, and a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday." Van Dyke on his celebration, "This is the cherry on top of my entire life." He added that when he was younger he wanted to be in a Disney movie but yesterday topped being in "Mary Poppins." Here is a video of Van Dyke's Celebration:

Meg Crofton Gets Main Street, USA Window Dedication; Iger to Be Inducted into Toy Hall of Fame

Meg Crofton Gets Main Street, USA Window Dedication:

Today, Walt Disney World and the Magic Kingdom shortly after it opened this morning held a dedication this morning on Main Street, USA. The dedication was a window for recently retired Meg Crofton, former Walt Disney Parks and Resorts President. She had held the position since August 7, 2006.

Guests entering the park had to mainly use the sidewalks as the center of Main Street was closed off for the dedication. The window is located over The Emporium on the corner of Main Street and Center Street. 

Bob Iger to be Inducted into Toy Hall of Fame:

It was announced today the Robert A. Iger, Chairman and CEO of Disney, would be a 2016 inductee into the Toy Industry Association's Hall of Fame. Here is press release from Disney:

October 14, 2015

Toy Industry Association Names Robert A. Iger as 2016 Inductee into Toy Hall of Fame

By Amelia Lukiman, Disney Consumer Products

Exciting news from the toy world today! The Toy Industry Association (TIA) announced that they are inducting Robert A. Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. Mr. Iger was selected by members of TIA in recognition of his significant contributions to the industry and the impact his work has had on the lives of children worldwide.

Mr. Iger joins an impressive roster of 70 toy industry luminaries, including George Lucas and Disney•Pixar’s own John Lasseter, who have been inducted into the Hall since it was established in 1984. Mr. Iger is being recognized for his contributions to the industry, including growing the Disney portfolio of beloved brands with the acquisition of Pixar, Marvel and Lucasfilm, three of the entertainment industry’s greatest storytelling companies, and continuing to drive growth through creative content offerings across new and multiple platforms.

TIA President and CEO Steve Pasierb added, “Mr. Iger has done an impressive job of building on Disney’s rich history and growing their storytelling portfolio, creating new experiences and unforgettable memories for generations of kids to come.”

The induction ceremony will be held on February 12, 2016 in conjunction with the TIA’s centennial anniversary and the 16th annual Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards celebration at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The ceremony will kick off the 113th North American International Toy Fair.

- See more at: https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/blog/toy-industry-association-names-robert-iger-2016-inductee-toy-hall-fame#sthash.kFnSfzrX.dpuf