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.

All the Details from Saturday's Destination D Parks Panel (Part 2)

Continuing on from part one of the Destination D announcements we will start off with the most recently announced Disney Vacation Club resort that will be built on the land of the old River Country. Yesterday, it was announced that the resort would be called Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge. Here is the concept art for the resort:

The deluxe resort will be nature-themed and will consist of 900 hotel rooms and proposed Disney Vacation Club Villas. Back in October, Terri Schultz - Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club had this to say about the new resort:

“This resort experience will be a celebration of Walt Disney’s lifelong love and respect for nature, with some fun and even surprising accommodation types that families will find irresistible. It will give our members and guests yet another opportunity to stay in close proximity to all the newest attractions and experiences in our theme parks, and with the flexibility, value and world-class service families expect from Disney.”

There is no timeframe of when this resort will be completed.

Another Disney Vacation Club resort is already well underway in construction in Disney's Riviera Resort which was announced that it will be completed by Fall 2019.

The 15th DVC resort is inspired by the European grandeur Walt Disney experienced in his travels along Europe’s Mediterranean coastline. As you can see from the newly released concept art, Disney Vacation Club Members and other guests will have a great view of fireworks spectaculars and easy access to the Disney Skyliner, which will have a station at the resort.

The story behind Disney's Riviera Resort is that in 1935, not long after Mickey Mouse was born, Walt took a break from the production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Walt & Lillian and Roy & Edna Disney took an extended grand tour of Europe that would have an impact on Disney storytelling for decades to come. With its castles and colorful, fairy-tale villages, Walt fell in love with Europe – the art, the architecture, the food, and, of course, the stories. 

Earlier this week, Bob Chapek announced that the Disney Skyliner system would also be debuting in Fall of 2019. Yesterday, though guests attending Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse got their first look at the gondolas that will take to the sky on the Disney Skyliner.

Once in operation the Skyliner will connect Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios to four resort hotels including: Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Art of Animation, Disney's Pop Century, and Disney's Riviera Resort. Check out Bob Chapek and Mickey revealing the very first look at the gondola:

As you can see the gondolas will have iconic Disney characters including the Fab Five, favorite characters from Disney attractions, and of course one's from our favorite films as well. I can't wait to ride the Disney Skyliner.

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. 

"Infinity War" Release Date Moved Up a Week; Celebrate Mickey's 90th All Year Round

"Infinity War" Release Date Moved Up a Week:

Good news Marvel fans, we are all going to see "Avengers: Infinity War" even sooner than we thought we would.

Today, Marvel Studios along with Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man) on Twitter made a huge announcement in that "Avengers: Infinity War" will now hit theaters on April 27. Up until today the film was supposed to be released in the usual Marvel film spot in May on May 4. The movie will now be released worldwide on the same date. 

It is believed that Marvel did this to protect American viewers from spoilers as international viewers would have seen the film a week earlier than Americans did on the original release date of May 4. Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, has previously stated that 'Infinity War' will have major ramifications on the Marvel Cinematic Universe. 

How excited are you that "Avengers: Infinity War" will now be released on April 27 instead of May 4?

Celebrate Mickey Mouse's 90th Birthday All Year Round:

Disney is planning a worldwide and year long celebration of the main man himself, Mickey Mouse for his 90th birthday beginning this month on March 7. This will begin with "The Happiest Show on Earth" fashion show that will feature a Mickey-inspired collection designed by couture brand Opening Ceremony founders Carol Lim and Humberto Leon. The show will also serve as Opening Ceremony’s Spring 2018 runway show, and the special “mouse-terpieces” will close out fashion week celebrations around the world. 

You can join in on this festive fashion extravaganza, as select items from the Mickey collaboration will be immediately available for sale following the runway show at shopDisney.com, OpeningCeremony.com, and Opening Ceremony stores, while remaining ready-to-wear looks will hit stores in November. Of course, no fashion show is complete without Minnie Mouse! The icon—who shares this milestone anniversary with Mickey and who recently received her official star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—will also be celebrated at the fashion show.

The fun continues for 2018 and beyond with exclusive events from D23: The Official Disney Fan Club:

• D23 and the Walt Disney Archives, in partnership with Walt Disney Animation Studios, have commissioned legendary Disney animator Mark Henn to paint Mickey’s official 90th birthday portrait. Henn follows in the footsteps of artists such as Disney Legend John Hench, who crafted five of Mickey’s official portraits. Henn animated Mickey for Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983) and is currently at work on Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 (2018). The new portrait will debut on the cover of the fall issue of Disney twenty-three, a publication of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club.
• This November, D23 will present Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse, a two-day event at Walt Disney World Resort featuring panels, presentations and fun-filled entertainment.
• This year’s annual D23 Gold Member gift is an exclusive box set of 23 special Mickey Mouse mementos—authentic reproductions of such treasured keepsakes as pages from the script of Steamboat Willie and a miniature animation cel from Parade of the Award Nominees (1932).

That's not all though as Mickey will be celebrated all across Disney in 2018 and beyond with these events:

• This fall, ABC will air a star-studded celebration of Mickey in honor of his birthday, with special guests, musical performances and more.
• Disney Channel will debut season five of the Mickey Mouse animated shorts, including a special seven-minute extended-length birthday episode that will air later this year.
• Walt Disney Parks and Resorts around the world will celebrate Mickey’s 90th on November 18, marking the day with commemorative merchandise, photo locations, and more.
• Beginning in late 2018 and into 2019 the World’s Biggest Mouse Party, saluting Mickey and Minnie, will take place at Disney parks worldwide.
• Disney On Ice will salute Mickey as the “True Original” host of Disney On Ice since its inception in 1981 by creating Mickey’s 90th pre-shows for productions touring the United States, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.
• Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Special Celebration, a new production showcasing Mickey Mouse’s memories throughout the years, will launch in Japan in July 2018 and continue touring throughout the Asia-Pacific region until August 2019.
• In France, 38 design and art schools will take part in “Mickey Is Art,” a unique contest in which students will craft works of Mickey, inspired by their favorite artistic movement. The winning designs will be displayed this summer in 12 major train stations in France and for sale this September at Galerie Glénat in Paris.
• Disney store will continue to celebrate milestone moments for Mickey Mouse with the Mickey Mouse Memories Collection (launched Jan 2018), a monthly, limited-release series of 12 collectible plush, mugs, and cloisonné pins inspired by Mickey’s most memorable movie roles.
• Disney Publishing Worldwide will introduce more than 30 titles globally as part of Mickey’s 90th, including books, arts & crafts, and comics.

Follow along all year round on social media by following along with the hashtag #Mickey90. 

Source: D23

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

Full Cast for "The Lion King" Remake Revealed:

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

Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar

Alfree Woodard as Sarabi

John Oliver as Zazu

John Kani as Rafiki

Seth Rogen as Pumbaa

Billy Eichner as Timon

Eric Andre as Azizi

Florence Kasumba as Shenzi

Keegan-Michael Key as Kamari

JD McCrary as Young Simba

Shahadi Wright Joseph as Young Nala

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

Mickey's Birthday Celebration at Disney Parks:

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

Walt Disney World:

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

Disneyland:

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

Disneyland Paris:

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Introducing the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour; Captain's Grille Closing for Lengthy Refurbishment

Introducing the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour at Magic Kingdom:

Today, we learned there will be a new VIP tour for guests to enjoy at Magic Kingdom. Guests can now book their spot on a new 4-hour tour called the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour. The tour will be led by Disney VIP tour guides, who will make navigating through the park a breeze by providing the highest level of Disney's world-renowned guest service, all while you enjoy many of the most beloved Magic Kingdom attractions carefree. 

During the tour, guests will be able to experience up to 10 of everyone's favorite attractions that may included: Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, "it's a small world", Peter Pan's Flight, and so much more. Also what trip to the Magic Kingdom would be without visiting the mouse himself, Mickey Mouse. 

The Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour will cost $199 plus tax (valid admission to the park is needed and is not included in the price of the tour). The tour will be offered Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The tour will begin at two times at 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. with each tour lasting 4 hours. For reservations call 407-WDW-PLAY or 407-939-7529 to book. 

Captain's Grille to Close for Lengthy Refurbishment Beginning this Spring:

Captain's Grille at Disney's Yacht Club will close for a lengthy refurbishment, closing in late May with a tentative re-opening of Fall 2017. 

The restaurant overhaul is part of the ongoing remodeling of the resort that includes ongoing room remodeling and the expansion of the resorts' convention center. During the closure, a temporary version of the restaurant in the Ariel's space next door to Martha's Vineyard at Disney's Beach Club. 

Source: WDW News Today

Vote Mickey or Goofy to the Pro Bowl, New Single Day Quick Service Plan, & More

Vote Mickey or Goofy to the Pro Bowl:

With the NFL Pro Bowl coming to Orlando later this month, you now have a chance to give Mickey or Goofy are excited to get more involved with the event. The Disney Parks Blog has an idea to get them on the team.

"We checked into it and discovered that, while the Pro Bowl rosters were recently announced, a few more players will likely be added in the coming weeks. So, that got us to thinking … What if we launched our own campaign to get Mickey and Goofy voted onto the Pro Bowl teams that will be here Jan. 25th-29th 2017?" - Disney Parks Blog

Check out this video from former NFL legend Charles Woodson explaining how you can vote:

You can vote for either Mickey or Goofy to play in the Pro Bowl here.

New Single Day Quick Service Plan to be Tested at Magic Kingdom:

A new single day quick service plan will begin testing later this month at the Magic Kingdom. The Disney Dine-On-The-Go will begin testing next week January 12 and run through February 22, 2017.  Pricing for the single day plan will be $29 plus tax for adults and $12 plus tax for children ages 3-9. Here is what the plan entails:

• One lunch quick-service meal that includes one (1) entrée and one (1) non-alcoholic single-serving beverage (may be used only until 4 p.m.)
• One dinner quick-service meal that includes one (1) entrée and one (1) non-alcoholic single-serving beverage (may be used from 4 p.m. until close)

Dessert is not included.

Participating restaurants will include:

• Casey’s Corner
• Columbia Harbour House
• Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
• Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn and Café
• Pinocchio Village Haus
• Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant

Will you be interested in testing the new Disney Dine-On-The-Go quick service dining plan? Is it worth it for you and your family?

Source: WDW Magic

Kingdom Cabanas to be Discounted for Short Time:

This shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. The private cabanas that were recently built at the Magic Kingdom will be able to be rented at a discounted price for a short period of time. The Kingdom Cabanas which cost $649 per day normally will run at the discounted price of $499/day from January 17 through February 17, 2017. 

The cabanas which hold a maximum of 8 guests will now only cost $63/person. The cabanas include a space to relax, cold beverages, some snacks and fruit, electronic device charging, a small refrigerator, a one-time delivery of ice cream and desserts, personalized Mickey ears, and a reserved viewing space for parades and fireworks. 

This is expected to be a test for when the park has lower attendance. 

Source: Blog Mickey

Main Street Electrical Parade Returns to Disneyland January 20; Happy Birthday Walt

Walt Disney World said goodbye to the Main Street Electrical Parade back in October, now we know when it will officially return to Disneyland. The nighttime parade will return to Disneyland for a limited time beginning January 20, 2017. It will return nightly to the park where it will run until June 18. That is a big date for the Main Street Electrical Parade because it will be 45 years after it originally debuted at Disneyland.

During the limited time celebration, guests will be able to enjoy special merchandise and food offerings that are inspired by the parade. That is not all as the Disney Parks Blog will be holding a special after hours event to celebrate the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade on January 19. Here are the details for the event:

After the park closes, premiere event ticket holders will enjoy a night of exclusive access to most Disneyland park attractions and select restaurants, featuring a special performance of the Main Street Electrical Parade ahead of its official debut to the public. Tickets go on sale for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders tomorrow, Dec. 6, and to the general public on December 13. Information will be available on Disneyland.com beginning tomorrow.

Are you excited about the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade at Disneyland? I know I already miss it at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Happy Birthday Walt Disney!:

I couldn't go without saying a Happy Birthday today to Walt Disney. Walt was born on this day, December 5, in 1901. The man who brought us Mickey and Disneyland deserves so much gratitude from all of us. Thank You Walt for everything you brought to our world and Happy Birthday.

Two New Posters for 'Rogue One' Released; Mickey's Birthday at Disney Parks

Two New Posters for "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" Released:

We are just one month away from the release of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" and my excitement is over the moon. They have released two posters for the IMAX release as well as one from Dolby Cinema. Here is the one for the IMAX release:

Here is the one that Dolby Cinema released today:

Go Rogue when "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" hits theaters on December 16. 

Mickey's Birthday at Disney Parks:

Mickey Mouse's birthday is this Friday and while he's been out traveling around the world celebrating it, Disney Parks will join in on the celebration as well. Here is what will be going on at each of the parks. 

At Disneyland, guests can sing "Happy Birthday" to Mickey in a pre-parade moment before they enjoy "A Christmas Fantasy" Parade on Main Street, USA.

At Walt Disney World, guests can enjoy a special birthday-themed edition of the "Movie It! Shake It!, Dance & Play It!" Street Party. Special Commemorative buttons will also be available at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. 

In Shanghai Disneyland, guests will celebrate the big guy's birthday along Mickey Avenue with a special Grand-Marshal pre-parade. In Hong Kong, guests will find commemorative stickers and pins along with be able to sharing a special moment with Mickey himself.

Finally in Disneyland Paris, the park will celebrate Mickey's birthday for three full days of celebration and surprises for the special event. Mickey, himself, will be celebrating on Main Street, USA just before the Disney Magic on Parade. Birthday cupcakes will be available at several locations throughout the park.

If you can't make it to any of the Disney Parks on Friday, tune into Good Morning America where Mickey's new music video, "What We Got," will debut which will highlight his trip around the world. 

Donald Glover to Play Young Lando Calrissian, Mickey Mouse to Celebrate 88th Around the Globe, & More

Donald Glover to Play Young Lando Calrissian in Untitled Han Solo Film:

LucasFilm just announced who will play young Lando Calrissian in the untitled Han Solo film due to be released in 2018. Donald Glover who is an acclaimed actor, award-winning writer, and a Grammy-nominated artist was tabbed to play the young Calrissian by directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.

Glover joins Alden Ehrenreich who will take on the role of the young Han Solo. It brings two iconic Star Wars characters back to the big screen, back to a time of their lives that haven't been explored yet.

In the film we will see Lando in his formative years as a scoundrel on the rise in the galaxy's underworld. This will take place years before the events involving Han, Leia, an Darth Vader in "The Empire Strikes Back" and his journey to Rebel hero in "Return of the Jedi."


Lord and Miller had this to say on Glover: "We're so lucky to have an artist as talented as Donald join us. These are big shoes to fill, and an even bigger cape, and this one fits him perfectly, which will save us money on alterations. Also, we'd like to publicly apologize to Donald for ruining Comic-Con for him forever."

The untitled Han Solo standalone film will be released in theaters in 2018.

Mickey Mouse to Celebrate 88th Birthday Around the Globe:

Mickey Mouse has a pretty big birthday coming up when he celebrates his 88th on November 18. To celebrate the mouse that started it all will be traveling around the world. Over the next few weeks Mickey will be stopping at several iconic locations around the world.You’ll be able to follow Mickey’s adventures on various social channels, including: Disney Parks Blog, Disney’s Mickey Mouse Facebook page, Mickey Mouse Instagram account, or using the hashtag #HappyBirthdayMickey.

Then on his big day on November 18, at select locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, as well as Disney Stores nationwide will be distributing special "Happy Birthday Mickey" commemorative buttons.

"Disneyland park in Anaheim will host a special pre-parade birthday celebration for Mickey, and at Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando, characters and performers will dance in a special birthday-themed edition of the Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! Street Party. Also on November 18, fans can enjoy a new video highlighting Mickey’s travels around the world, which will also feature the new song, “What We Got.” - Disney Parks Blog

"Also on November 18, Disney Channel will air the Emmy®-winning new Mickey Mouse shorts throughout the day and premiere two new cartoon series featuring Mickey Mouse. On Mickey Meows Club, the feline hosts of a web-based talk show provide their own “cat”-mentary on Mickey’s incredible performances in their favorite shorts. Mickey’s How Not To will provide viewers with a humorous series of informative tips on how not to do things, using Mickey’s funniest fails and moments from the latest cartoons. Plus, that day Disney Junior will debut the teaser for the upcoming series Mickey and the Roadster Racers." - Walt Disney Company Press Release

I can't wait to celebrate the mouse that started it all on November 18. How about you? 

Disney Introduces Marvel Day at Sea Coming to Disney Cruise Line in Fall 2017:

Disney Cruise Line today that your favorite legendary Super Heroes and Super Villains are coming to the Disney Magic very soon for the spectacular first ever Marvel Day at Sea. There will be 7 sailings aboard the Disney Magic that will depart from New York City in Fall 2017. Here are the highlights:

• Unleash Your Inner Super Hero during the Ultimate Day at Sea 
• Spider-Man, Captain America, Thor and other Marvel Universe Super Heroes are onboard for scheduled meet-and-greets and photos.
• A brand-new spectacular party fills the upper deck with music, dancing and games.
• The deck party culminates in a stunning display of themed pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects and the largest collection of Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains ever assembled on a cruise ship. 
• Kids and families summon their Marvel knowledge and enjoy friendly competition during trivia games, covering courageous heroes and fun facts from the Marvel Universe.
• For young heroes-in-training, Marvel-themed games, activities and arts and crafts will be offered throughout the day in Marvel’s Avengers Academy in the Oceaneer Club.

Marvel Day at Sea will be on the 7 and 8-night Bahamian cruises aboard the Disney Magic on October 6, 14, and 28 and November 4, 11, and 18, 2017. All sailing will include a stop at Castaway Cay and Port Canaveral, as well as one day at Walt Disney World. There will also be one sailing to the Canadian coast which is a 7-night cruise departing from New York on October 21, 2017. This sailing will have stops in Charlottetown, Sydney, and Halifax. 

"Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" Announced as New Holiday Show at Hollywood Studios; Princess Elena Coming to Fairytale Hall

"Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" Announced as New Holiday Show at Hollywood Studios:

Since last year was the final year of the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, many wondered what would be its replacement this year for the holidays. Today, we got that answer when Disney announced the new nighttime fireworks holiday spectacular called, "Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" The new show starts November 14 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It will come to life on, above, and around the Chinese Theater with state-of-the-art projections, special effects, fireworks, and a rousing seasonal musical score. 

The show will be led by elves Wayne and Lanny, the duo from ABC/Walt Disney Animation Studios' animated special in "Prep & Landing." The spirited yuletide adventure to the North Pole includes memorable holiday moments from favorite Disney films including: Mickey's Christmas Carol, Beauty and the Beast, Pluto's Christmas Tree, Bambi, Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas, and many more. This will all build to a festive finale that will just leave you "So tinsel." Let's not forget there will be SNOW!

There will also be the "Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" Dessert Party which will include reserved viewing of the nighttime spectacular, desserts, specialty beverages, and more. Each of the dessert party-goers will receive a pair of 3D HoloSpex glasses to use while watching the show. The glasses will create spectacular holographic illusions of gingerbread men, candy canes, snowflakes, and ornaments on any bright point of light. 

This amazing new nighttime holiday spectacular will dazzle Hollywood Studios until December 31. The holidays are fast approaching at Disney World and we can't wait. 

Princess Elena of Avalor Coming to Princess Fairytale Hall:

Princess Elena of Avalor is coming to Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom beginning November 24. Here are the complete details from the Disney Parks Blog:

Beginning November 24, Princess Elena of Avalor – the first Disney princess inspired by diverse Latin cultures – will begin to greet guests alongside other royal friends at Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom Park. At Princess Fairytale Hall, guests can choose between a meeting with Elena and Cinderella or a visit with Rapunzel and Tiana. FastPass+ reservations for dates that include Elena appearances will become available today, October 14.

Princess Elena made her debut at Magic Kingdom back in August, when she was welcomed by Cinderella to the kingdom in, "The Princess Elena Royal Welcome," show. You will still be able to enjoy this wonderful show throughout the #WonderFALL season at Walt Disney World.

Disney on Ice Presents Follow Your Heart Featuring Finding Dory, Inside Out, and So Much More

The new Disney on Ice show will be called "Follow Your Heart" will begin its production with shows this Fall beginning in Orlando. This year it will feature Pixar's record breaking animated film, "Finding Dory." It will also feature "Inside Out," Disney's "Frozen," and many other of our beloved Disney and Pixar stories.

• Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Pixar’s Finding Dory as they embark on a life-changing excursion to find her parents and discover the true meaning of family.
• Cheer with the Emotions from Disney•Pixar’s Inside Out–Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust– as they help Riley find the confidence to win the hockey championship and experience the emotional rollercoaster of growing up.
• Venture to wintery world of Arendelle where Olaf and Kristoff help reunite royal sisters Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen and learn love is the most powerful magic of all.
• See Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana and the Disney Princesses make their dreams come true through their virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and The Toy Story gang.
• Make unforgettable memories with Mickey, Minnie and all your Disney friends when Disney On Ice presents Follow Your Heart skates into your hometown!

Besides Orlando, here are the other cities Disney on Ice: Follow Your Heart will be hitting:

Sunrise, Florida
Miami, Florida
Atlanta, Georgia
Charlotte, North Carolina
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Huntsville, Alabama
New Orleans, Louisiana
Raleigh, North Carolina
Greensboro, North Carolina
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Hampton, Virginia
Fairfax, Virginia
Baltimore, Maryland
Indianapolis, Indiana
Houston, Texas
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cleveland, Ohio
Newark, New Jersey
Brooklyn, New York
Auburn Hills, Michigan
Chicago, Illinois
London, Ontario
Rosemont, Illinois
San Antonio, Texas
Hidalgo, Texas
Kansas City, Missouri
Toronto, Ontario
Worchester, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts
Montreal, Quebec

Are you excited for this year's Disney on Ice production, Follow Your Heart?

Olaf Will Finally Greet Guests at Hollywood Studios Along with New Mickey & Minnie Meet & Greet

Two new character meet & greets are coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios this Spring. In the Echo Lake district, the all new Celebrity Spotlight, will be the perfect place to encounter everyone's favorite snowman, Olaf. Olaf will be living his dream "In Summer" where he will be chilling on the beach and ready with warm hugs for all his friends. 

Mickey & Minnie will also have a new home located near Commissary Lane near the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater in there new experience called, "Mickey and Minnie Starring in Red Carpet Dreams." Here Mickey and Minnie will be living out there dreams of being A-list stars. Guests will walk the red carpet will they will meet Minnie dressed as a Tinsel Town starlet setting straight out of a lush and colorful musical extravaganza. Nearby, you will meet Mickey portraying his iconic role of the Sorcerer's Apprentice from Fantasia.

Who's excited to finally be meeting Olaf or for the new Mickey & Minnie Meet & Greet?

'Twas The Night Before Christmas' as Recited by Disney World Cast and Characters and The Disney Yule Log

'Twas The Night Before Christmas' as Recited by Disney World Cast & Characters:

I hope everyone is enjoying their time with their families as we all await Santa. Merry Christmas Eve everyone it was a long day as I finally have been able to sit down for some down time. A few years ago the Disney Parks Blog shared a video of several Disney World Cast Members and our favorite characters reciting 'Twas The Night Before Christmas.' How perfect that is for tonight, the night before Christmas, to share this wonderful video on the blog. The video itself has been watched over 1 million times.

While you are relaxing tonight as we all await the excitement of tomorrow, enjoy the Disney Parks Yule Log.

Merry Christmas to all and a very Happy Holiday Season from my family to yours here at It All Started With a Mouse.

Monorail Collides with Tow Tug, No Injuries; Happy Birthday Micke

Disney World Monorail Collides with Tow Tug:

Photo Credit: @MartinsVids on Twitter

This afternoon during a planned testing of the TCS (Train Control System) on the Express Monorail at Disney World, Monorail Coral and a tow tug collided. There were no injuries during the accident as it was during a test. 

The incident occurred between the Contemporary and the Ticket & Transportation Center. The train collided with enough force to cause considerable damage to the nose and front window of the train (as seen in the above picture). Disney confirmed the monorail was being tugged and became separated. An investigation seems to be on the horizon to see what errors caused the separation. 

Due to the accident, traffic had been shut down on World Drive and pedestrians are being kept out of the area. With the Train Control System that is being tested it could bring driver-less monorails to Walt Disney World in the future.

Happy Birthday 87th Birthday Mickey Mouse:

We couldn't end today's news without giving a shout out to everyone's favorite mouse. It was on this day 87 years ago that Walt Disney created the magic of Disney by creating Mickey Mouse. It All Started With a Mouse and it's all history from there.

Happy Birthday Mickey Mouse!!!!!

Note: Remember tonight on the Disney Parks Blog to tune in to a live stream from Disney's Hollywood Studios of the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at 10:30 p.m. EST.

The Muppets Are Returning to ABC and Recap of Disney Infinity 3.0 Live Twitch Reveal

The Muppets Are Returning to ABC with a New Show:

ABC promises that the new Muppets show will be the most exciting Muppet series since the Jim Henson Hour. Today, they announced The Muppets will be returning to primetime this fall. The network said that from what it saw in the pilot they can firmly attest that this is a Muppet project that we can get "really really, ridiculous excited for."

The Muppets were last on primetime almost 20 years ago with "Muppets Tonight" which also aired on ABC. Kermit and the gang have appeared in several tv specials including (2013 Lady Gaga & The Muppets' Holiday Spectacular) and tv movies such as "The Muppet Wizard of Oz." The new series is sort of a faux documentary aesthetic like Christopher Guest movies ("Best in Show," "A Mighty Wind") and also shows the usual Muppets lets-put-on-a-show narrative. The creative team includes "Big Bang Theory" vets Bill Prady and Bob Kushnell who will executive produce alongside Muppet performers Bill Barretta and Randall Einhorn. The new series will take the best elements of the original "Muppet Show," some modernity of "Muppets Tonight" and the gutsy experimentalism of "The Jim Henson Hour." 

Recap of Live ToyBox TV on Twitch About Disney Infinity 3.0:

On Wednesday, we learned that Star Wars was finally coming to Disney Infinity. Today, on Twitch our favorite ToyBox TV hosts John Vignocci and Allison Petrek along with Disney Infinity team members gave out more details on the new game and answered questions from the community. In the hour long event they showed off new packaging of just some the characters to come Disney Infinity 3.0. Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be in purple packaging and Han Solo will be in red packaging. 

There will be just one starter pack release this time as they said it caused confusion last year with the two versions. There will be a digital version of the game that will be released at launch. Here are just some of the highlights of what will be on 3rd version of the interactive game:

• No four-legged or swimming in the game
• 1.0 characters have not received full upgrades
• Play sets still not forward compatible
• Power Discs will be revealed in a future episode of Toy Box TV
• Still only 4-player online and 2-player on offline with Play Sets
• No confirmation of Collectors Edition but something will be announced at a later date
• There will be an Ultimate Unlock on 3.0
• Mickey will be able to summon the gang to help him such as Goofy, Pluto, and Oswald for an attack
• Mickey will use her purse to attack

I am certainly excited for what 3.0 brings and think that will be the best version of the game yet. What does everyone else think about Disney Infinity 3.0? What characters are you most excited to see in the 3.0 edition?