Mother's Day at Disney Springs; New Concept Art for Disney H2O Glow Nights

Mother's Day at Disney Springs:

This Sunday is a day we celebrate all Mother's and if you are visiting Disney Springs this Sunday, mom's will have quite the selection of places to celebrate their day. Here is a list of just some of the choices mom's can choose from:

• Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante – A special buffet will be served Sunday, May 13, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., featuring gems like mascarpone French toast, poached hen egg and quinoa kale salad and hand-carved NY strip steak. The regular lunch menu will also be served. Reservations available at Maria&Enzo’s.com.
• Enzo’s Hideaway – To celebrate Mother’s Day, Enzo’s Hideaway will offer a Prix Fixe menu of Italian specialties including ahi tuna crudo, ricotta gnocchi, pasta frutti di mare and trio of homemade gelatos. Moms will also receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco when dining on Mother’s Day.
• House of Blues Restaurant & Bar – Celebrate Mother’s Day at the restaurant’s famous Gospel Brunch – a soulful experience that includes an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet and live entertainment. Choose between the 10:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. seating based on availability.
• Paddlefish – Take in seafood and scenic views of Disney Springs aboard an iconic Mississippi riverboat. The regular Sunday brunch will also be available.
• Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant – Check out The Rollicking Raglan Brunch, May 12 and May 13, 2018, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The menu will include traditional Irish favorites, and live entertainment will be featured from noon to 4:00 p.m. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
• STK Orlando – A Mother’s Day weekend brunch buffet will be offered Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The buffet will include an omelet station, smoked salmon platter and an assortment of desserts including tres leches cakes, churros and cotton candy.
• Sweet Treats – Grab Mom dessert or a sweet treat at Sprinkles Cupcakes, The Ganachery or Amorette’s Patisserie.

You can make reservations now for Mother's Day this Sunday, May 13 by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463, or by visiting WaltDisneyWorld.com.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Concept Art for Disney H2O Glow Nights at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon:

A few weeks ago, Disney announced a new nighttime ticketed event coming to Disney's Typhoon Lagoon this summer called, Disney H2O Glow Nights. Today, we got new concept art for the new nighttime party.

With glowing beach balls, inner tubes and other lighting effects, Disney H2O Glow Nights is a rare opportunity for guests to experience Typhoon Lagoon under the moonlight. On select nights beginning June 21, Typhoon Lagoon becomes a luminous, nighttime hotspot featuring a DJ Dance Party on the beach, plus special character meetings with Buzz, Woody and Jessie from Pixar’s “Toy Story,” as they visit Typhoon Lagoon for the first time. And let’s not forget about our host, Partysaurus Rex, who is inviting guests to this one-of-a-kind experience.

Party games, unique food and beverage offerings, and all the attractions with minimal wait times will be available to guests of the party. Tickets for Disney H2O Glow Nights cost $55 for adults and $50 for children ages 3-9 (plus tax). Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.disneyworld.com/h2oglownights or 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

Disney Will Start Charging for Overnight Parking at Resorts; Incredible Summer Will Light Up Typhoon Lagoon

Disney Will Start Charging for Overnight Parking at Resorts:

After years of rumors, Walt Disney World guests will now have to pay overnight parking fees when staying at resorts. This will begin for reservations made after March 21, 2018. Guests who have made prior reservations to March 21 will not have to pay the parking fees. 

Fees will depend on what kind of resort the guest is staying either Value, Moderate, or Deluxe:

Value: $13/night

Moderate $19/night

Deluxe: $24/night, additionally Deluxe resort guests can pay $33/night to use valet parking.

Complimentary self-parking will remain for the following:

• Guests with disabilities
• Cast Members staying as guests
• Guests traveling as part of a group or convention
• Guests staying at campsites at Fort Wilderness.
• Guests who wish to dine, shop, enjoy activities, or visit a resort for the day

Guests who are Disney Vacation Club members will not be charged standard parking fees if they are staying Deluxe DVC Villas regardless of whether they used vacation club points or another form of payment. 

Source: WDW Info

Incredible Summer Will Light Up Typhoon Lagoon with Disney H2O Glow Nights:

As part of Walt Disney World's 'Incredible Summer', our favorite Pixar pals from 'Toy Story' will light up the night and summer at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon with the new event H20 Glow Nights. 

Our 'Toy Story' pals will throw glow parties inspired by the Toy Story toons short 'Partysaurus Rex."

On select summer nights starting June 21, special lighting effects will transform the water park like never before as Buzz, Woody and Jessie will throw a Beach Party inspired by their friend, “Partysaurus” Rex. Guests will join the fun, dance on the beach, play party games, and meet up with Buzz, Woody and Jessie, plus, all attractions will be open for guest enjoyment.

Disney H20 Glow Nights will take place only at Typhoon Lagoon on Thursdays and Saturdays from June 21-August 11, from 8-11 p.m.

Disney H20 Glow Nights will be separate ticketed event and the party is not included in daytime admission. Tickets will go on sale March 19 and cost $55 for adults and $50 for children ages 3-9 (plus tax). For more information and to purchase tickets, guests can call (407) 939-1872.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

             WDW News Today

Disney Springs Welcoming Three New Italian Restaurants; New Concept Art for Sunshine Season Greetings

Disney Springs will Welcome Three New Italian Restaurants:

Three new restaurants with an Italian flare are coming to Disney Springs very soon this winter. All three restaurants will be brought to us from the Patina Restaurant Group with each featuring unique menus and authentic Italian foods in a beautiful and expansive dining complex.

Maria & Enzo's Ristorante:

The first concept, called Maria & Enzo’s, is a trattoria set in the town’s abandoned 1930’s airline terminal which has now been transformed into an open and airy restaurant. Featuring gorgeous views of Lake Buena Vista and incredible 50-foot ceilings, the interior dining room is adorned with artifacts that reflect air travel of the time such as maps and historic flight paths. Inspired by Sicily, the menu has a delightful range of family-friendly dishes – Arancini di Carne (rice balls stuffed with meat), Melanzane Parmigiana (eggplant parmesan), and handmade pastas including Busiate con Granchio (spiral pasta with crab) and ‘Ncasiata al Forno (Sicilian baked pasta) – all served tableside. Other delectable highlights include fresh fish, richly flavored steaks and chops.

Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar:

The second concept is Enzo’s Hideaway – Enzo’s own personal speakeasy inspired by Roman aperitivo bars. Located in the storied rum-runner tunnels that adjoin Maria & Enzo’s and steeped in Florida’s true history of rum-running, Enzo’s Hideaway will pour Prohibition-era cocktails at its Tunnel Bar and serve a casual menu of hearty Roman Dishes such as the city’s legendary Bucatini alla Carbonara (hollow spaghetti with creamy egg and pancetta sauce) and Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe (square-cut spaghetti with pecorino and black pepper).

Pizza Ponte:

Pizza Ponte rounds out the group with a fast-casual restaurant serving pizza, pastries, Italian sandwiches and espresso. With the perfect blend of savory and sweet, Pizza Ponte is the ideal place quick bite. On the savory side, the menu features Pizza al Taglio (Sicilian-style pizza served by the slice), signature Tirangolo (stuffed pizza bread) sandwiches, and Porchetta (roast pork). To satisfy your sweet tooth, pastry specialties include Bombolini (Italian donuts), Sfoglia di Riso (pastry with rice cream), and Tiramisu.

Maria & Enzo's Ristorante, Enzo's Hideaway, and Pizza Ponte will all open this winter at Disney Springs in the dining complex located adjacent to The Edison, which is also slated to open soon. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Concept Art Revealed Sunshine Seasons Greetings at Disney's Hollywood Studios:

Today, Disney released some new concept art of the Hollywood Tower Hotel which will become the Hollywood Toy Hotel in one scene during the new Sunshine Seasons Greetings. The new projection onto the Tower will begin on November 9 at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

“Toy Story” is just one of of the four special projections that will be shown on the Hollywood Tower Hotel. The other scenes projecting on the Tower will include:

• Mickey and Minnie reminisce about hometown Christmas as a romanticized, Norman Rockwell-inspired scene changes from black & white to color
• The Swedish Chef from The Muppets babbles in front of giant gingerbread houses
• Olaf pines over his holiday wish and iconic music from “Frozen” plays as the scene transforms into a winter wonderland – complete with projected falling snow and dancing Aurora Borealis lights

Sunshine Seasons Greetings will debut next Thursday, November 9. 

Paradise Pier to Become Pixar Pier & More Changes Coming to Disneyland & Disney California Adventure

While not as big as the news coming out of Walt Disney World, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure will be seeing changes to its parks. First up, was the big news that Paradise Pier will become Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure in 2018.

Pixar Pier will feature a brand-new look for the area now known as Paradise Pier, as some of your favorite characters come to life on this seaside waterfront. You will discover whimsical neighborhoods filled with your friends from “The Incredibles,” “Inside Out” and even more of your pals from “Toy Story.”

This will be a permanent addition at Disney California Adventure replacing Paradise Pier. It will open during a brand new limited-time event taking place at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure in 2018 called, "Pixar Fest." 

At Disneyland park, this incredible celebration will feature a brand-new fireworks spectacular as well as the return of the guest favorite, Pixar Play Parade. Over at Disney California Adventure guests will see the return of Paint the Night with a brand new float added. More details on Pixar Pier and Pixar Fest will be coming out in the coming months.

That's not all as this Halloween over in Cars Land, guests will be able to experience the holiday as our favorite characters in the land will be celebrating Halloween. 

Bob Chapek save the biggest news for last at Disney California Adventure where a new Marvel-themed land will be built at the park. 

Guardians of the Galaxy have already invaded the park with Mission: BREAKOUT! but soon they will be joined by more of our favorite superheroes. Spider-man and the Avengers will join them in a completely new immersive superhero themed land. 

No other details were announced just to stay tuned in the future on more updates about our favorite Marvel Superheroes coming to Disney California Adventure.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Toy Story Characters on Apple Watch Faces; Disney World Cracking Down on Guests Cheating the FastPass+ System

Toy Story Characters on Apple Watch Faces:

This fall when the new Apple Watch comes out Buzzy, Woody, and Jessie are coming to the new Apple Watch os4. Our favorite Toy Story characters will animate on the watch face throughout the day which means updates, appointment reminders, and checking the time of day will become infinitely more awesome. 

Woody:

He’s the rootinest, tootinest cowboy in the west, and now he’ll be able keep you company as you listen to music and workout. With this cowboy on our wrists, we’ll always remember to “reach for the sky!”

Jessie:

Yee-haw, this is one awesome watch! We already feel a little more energetic thinking about how awesome it will be to have this feisty and enthusiastic cowgirl with us all day!

Buzz Lightyear:

It’s “to infinity … and beyond” on this Apple Watch face! With the courageous, confident space ranger and all the new Apple updates and awesome features of the watchOS 4, we’ll feel a little more heroic in our daily lives.

This is so exciting and I just may have to get an Apple Watch now. 

Source: Oh My Disney!

Disney World Cracking Down on Guests Cheating FastPass+ System:

Disney will be cracking down on guests cheating the FastPass+ system very soon with an "In-Park Validation" system as they are calling it according to WDW News Today. Guests have been using expired tickets to gain extra FastPasses after they've entered the park with a valid ticket. It has been a loophole that allows bookings through the in-park kiosks with expired tickets or a second ticket that has been linked to their account. 

Another issue is with 3rd party tour guides, who promise guests FastPass+ usage for all the attractions. Their employees have been rope-dropping at the parks with the expired tickets and cards and booking the most popular attractions first thing in the morning at the kiosks. This prevents paying guests from being able to pick the attractions they want to FastPass because they aren't available.

"This in-park validation system will check to ensure that a guest used an active ticket for admission before redeeming a FastPass+. If you didn’t, the Cast Member at the FastPass+ line at any attraction can see this and deny you entry. Repeated attempts will lock MyDisneyExperience accounts from utilizing the FastPass+ booking option, which can be a serious deal for those abusing the system. Guest Relations will be able to unblock accounts if the behavior was deemed non-abusive."

This validation system is set to roll out in the next few weeks, but no official date has been set.

Source: WDW News Today

Shanghai Disneyland Expanding with Toy Story Land Opening in 2018

Toy Story Land is coming to Shanghai Disneyland in the parks first expansion since it opened in June. Ground was broken for the expansion with Chairman and CEO Bob Iger, President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Bob Chapek, and Fan Xiping who is chairman of the Shanghai Shendi Group. The expansion is expected to open in 2018.

Here is what the Disney Parks Blog shared about Toy Story Land coming to Shanghai Disneyland:

We started the expansion even before opening Shanghai Disneyland in anticipation of its immense popularity in Mainland China. The characters from Toy Story have been well liked in China ever since the release of the first film in the franchise back in 1995, and Shanghai Disney Resort already has the only resort hotel in the world dedicated to the characters and stories from Toy Story. Our guests can’t get enough of Buzz, Woody and all of their pals, which made Toy Story an obvious choice for Shanghai Disneyland’s first expansion.
As you can tell from the logo, Toy Story Land at Shanghai Disneyland will be both authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese, making it a one-of-a-kind experience for our guests. Everyone’s favorite toys from one of the most popular franchises ever will come to life and play in a fully immersive land with three attractions and a themed character greeting area.
Shanghai Disneyland’s new Toy Story Land will be an experience guests can only have in Mainland China. It will be the perfect setting for all toys – old and new – to gather together for a day that’s more fun than a Barrel of Monkeys!

This expansion is exciting and there is to be at least 3 new and unique attractions once Toy Story Land is completed. Will you be visiting Shanghai Disneyland to see their version of Toy Story Land? Will it be completed before Toy Story Land opens in Disney World's Hollywood Studios? Stay tuned for more details.

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?

New "Jakku" Scene for Star Tours at DHS Premieres Early, 4th TV Spot for "Force Awakens" Released, and More

New "Jakku" Scene for Star Tours at Hollywood Studios Premieres Early:

Guests today at Hollywood Studios got a surprise if they visited Star Tours. Today, the "Jakku" scene from 'The Force Awakens' was added early. The scene wasn't supposed to be added until December 1. Here is a brief synopsis of what you will see, Warning Spoilers Ahead:

So, the new sequence takes place after the opening sequence (featuring either Darth Vader or the scanner droid looking for the rebel spy), in the space usually occupied by Hoth, Kashyyk, or Tatooine. You fly into Jakku and immediately the Millennium Falcon is in front of you. Finn appears on the side screen to deliver the classic “Star Tours? What are you doing here?” line. A chase ensues with First Order TIE Fighters, ending with the Falcon pulling an insane maneuver to take out a TIE Fighter. You then crash into some wreckage and the ship stops for a moment. At this point, scavengers from Jakku begin to try and rip the ship apart for spare parts to sell. R2-D2 zaps them away and the Starspeeder 1000 takes off and leaves the planet. The new sequence is followed by a new holographic transmission sequence featuring BB-8. BB-8 and R2-D2 sort of conspire against C-3P0 to continue the mission and protect the Rebel spy. After that, the ride travels to one of the randomized finale planets.

Also cast members at Hollywood Studios today got a sneak preview of Star Wars Launch Bay before it opens in two weeks.

4th TV Spot for "Force Awakens Released with More Details Revealed:

Yesterday, the 4th TV Spot for "Star Wars: Force Awakens and we now have more details to decipher with only 32 days until the release day. Here is the TV spot:

Watch “Discover," the second official #TV spot for #StarWars: #TheForceAwakens - coming to theaters 12/18/15. https://t.co/464hYHWfDD

— Star Wars (@starwars) November 16, 2015

In the photo above we see Rey is at some sort of temple that seems to be being attacked by First Order TIE-Fighters. Could the temple what remains of the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. We also see Rey piloting the Millennium Falcon and Finn in the gunner turret as they fly across Jakku. Another scene we see BB-8 in the night as the dessert sky is illuminated by some sort of explosion. Watch the trailer for other new scenes as well as the scenes we have already seen in previously released trailers and tv spots.

Watch The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights Live on the Disney Parks Blog:

The Disney Parks Blog will live streaming The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights this Wednesday night 11/18 at 10:30 p.m. EST.  This year is the final year for the famous light show as Hollywood Studios is set to be under heavy construction the next few years.

This year's show runs through January 3, 2016 and features millions of "dancing" lights including displays of angels, toy soldiers, a spinning globe, Santa, reindeer, and so much more. The live stream will appear in a fresh blog on Wednesday night. The DPB reminded fans when joining the conversation to use #DisneyHolidays much like they have used for previous live streams.

Will you be tuning into the live stream on the Disney Parks Blog Wednesday night?

Disney Store Releases Limited Release 20th Anniversary Toy Story T-Shirts:

Today through Sunday, on the Disney Store you can order a limited release 20th Anniversary Toy Story t-shirts. This is in honor of the release of Disney Pixar's "Toy Story" 20 years ago on November 19, 1995. The shirts come in both adults and child sizes and can be mixed and matched for a special deal of 2 for $44. If bought separately the adult shirts cost $27.95 and the kids shirts are $22.95. Here is the t-shirt:

Holiday Details For Disneyland Released, Is Star Wars Weekends Done at Disney World; and More

Holiday Details for Disneyland Released:

We are now just about two months away from all the holiday fun at Disney Parks returning. Today, the Disney Parks Blog announced details for the Disneyland Resort where holiday festivities begin November 13 and run through January 6. The big news is the "Believe.... In Holiday Magic" fireworks will not be presented instead a Holiday Version of the Disneyland Forever Fireworks will take its place.

"A Christmas Fantasy" parade will return to Disneyland and will show daily along with the new "Paint the Night" parade each night. At Disney California Adventure, "World of Color - Celebrate!" will continue throughout the holiday season along with "World of Color - Winter Dreams."

Santa Claus will greet guests in a new location this year in Disneyland in Critter Country and in Disney California Adventure he will greet guests at Elias & Co. on Buena Vista Street. Here are more of your returning holiday favorites at the Disneyland Resort:

Disneyland:

• Jingle Cruise
• "it's a small world" holiday
• Haunted Mansion holiday

Disney California Adventure:

• Disney !Viva Navidad!
• Holiday decor in Cars Land, "a bug's land", and Buena Vista Street
• Olaf's Snow Fest
• Buena Vista Street Community Choir

Downtown Disney:

• Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink

Is Star Wars Weekends Done at Walt Disney World?:

With more Star Wars coming to Disney Parks year round with Star Wars Land, a strong rumor is saying that Walt Disney World may shelve the annual event beginning next year. The rumor was first reported be WDW News Today. With Star Wars Launch Bay opening in December, (signs went up today) and Star Wars Seasons of the Force beginning on both coasts in January, it is with thought the Disney World will elect to end Star Wars Weekends.

It's official! @WDWNT pic.twitter.com/F4kvxWg1by

— Disney Dictionary (@disneylexicon) September 14, 2015

It is expected however that Disney World will still celebrated seasonal offerings like the annual Star Wars Day on May the 4th. The annual celebrity appearances and shows though appear to not be returning anytime soon.

Another rumor has surfaced according WDW News today in the same article that Disney plans to retire all Disney characters dressed as Star Wars characters in all merchandise, logos, and meet & greet appearances. Here is what they said:

"The decision was made along the same lines of the retirement of Hyperspace Hoopla a few years back as Disney and Lucasfilm are “re-positioning the brand” leading into the new films. Basically, it’s an image perception concern with Lucasfilm and Disney looking for a more serious tone with the brand."

No confirmation from Disney on if any of this is actually true but like it was said earlier there has been a strong case that 2015 was the last year for Star Wars Weekends. Stay tuned for details on this rumor as it develops.

'Andy's Room' in the Works for Magic Kingdom?:

A recent permit filed by Walt Disney World Resort shows a project called 'Andy's Room' for what looks like the former Tomorrowland Arcade area in the Magic Kingdom, according to The Inquisitr. We all know Andy as the main child character in the "Toy Story" franchise. This comes after last month's D23 EXPO announcement that a Toy Story Land would be built in Disney's Hollywood Studios.

If you look at the permit filed to the Orange County Comptroller, the area is very large at over 15,000 square feet. It appears to be located in the old Tomorrowland Arcade area that closed months ago. Here is the diagram of the area:

At the beginning of this year, Florida passed a new law that states people can't win more than 75 cents worth of prizes for each game played. This led to Disney closing the Tomorrowland Arcade and other arcades or simply just removing a number of games including claw machines and other ticket-spewing machines. There is also speculation that this could be an interactive queue for the Toy Story-themed attraction, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin also in Tomorrowland. 

Nothing is confirmed by Disney and this just remains a permit filed by the company at this time. Stay tuned to see what "Andy's Room" will be in the Magic Kingdom.

The Disney Store Shows Off What It's Bringing to the D23 EXPO

This year's D23 EXPO is only 3 weeks away and today the Disney Store showed off what new-collections and limited edition items they are bringing this year. At this year's expo, the Disney Store will have an over 3,000-square foot retail space for a Disney fan experience like no other. It will be located within the Disney Consumer Products pavilion. In addition to the new and exclusive merchandise not yet available to the public, fans will be able to meet and greet with the artists of the new collections. 

Fans will also be treated to the Disney Store's opening ceremony on Friday, August 14. During the opening ceremony, one special guest at the expo will be chosen to "unlock imagination" at 9 a.m. alongside some of Disney's most famous characters. Guests of the expo will get first look at the new collections including the next set of the Disney Fairytale Designer Collection, a Limited Edition Doll Collection from ABC's Once Upon a Time,  Star Wars, Toy Story 20th Anniversary, and the newly minted Disney Tsum Tsum. 

Here is a sneak peak and highlights of the new collections coming to the D23 EXPO:

Disney Fairytale Designer Collection—Happily ever after meets happily evil in Disney Store’s newest series of the Disney Fairytale Designer Collection being previewed at D23 EXPO. Featuring five sets of Limited Edition pairs, these collector doll sets were designed by Disney Store artists and carefully crafted to capture the beauty and romance of fairytale friends and foes.

Available for the first time at D23 EXPO, guests can pre-purchase the complete set of five Hero/Villain pairs prior to the general public pre-sale beginning online Monday, September 14.

Following the preview at D23 EXPO, the doll sets will be released and available for purchase in stores and online starting September 29, with a new pair released each week. Each set is limited to an edition of 6,000 globally and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

This line expands into a collection of apparel, mugs, journals, home décor, and more, available to the general public in stores and online on September 14.

Once Upon a Time—Continuing the ‘heroes and villains’ theme, Disney Store will introduce the Once Upon a Time Snow White and Evil Queen Doll Collection, available exclusively at D23 EXPO. Limited to an edition of 300, the doll collection, inspired by ABC Studios’ television series Once Upon a Time, brings to life the beauty, magic, and charm of the iconic fairytale characters from the show. Exclusively for guests who purchase the doll set at D23 EXPO, Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow White) and Lana Parrilla (The Evil Queen) will be available for an autograph signing at the ABC booth on the D23 EXPO floor from 4–4:45 p.m. on Saturday, August 15. This special opportunity will be followed by the Once Upon a Time panel taking place in Stage 23 from 6–7 p.m.

Star Wars—Disney Store will launch an exclusive collection of Star Warsitems at D23 EXPO on Friday, August 14. The collection will feature apparel, collectibles, and toys, including the Star Wars Elite Series, a new line of highly articulated and detailed die cast action figures, representing characters from Star Wars Episodes I-VI. The action figures will be sold individually at Disney Store locations beginning later this year; however, D23 EXPO attendees have the opportunity to purchase the full set of Star Wars Elite Series action figures, which includes D23 EXPO-exclusive versions of R2-D2 and C-3PO.

Additionally at D23 EXPO, Disney Store will introduce Star Wars Legion Helmets, a series of eight vinyl collectible helmets inspired by the Star Wars Legion Helmet project launched in early 2014. Celebrating creativity and Star Wars, the project pulled together artists from across The Walt Disney Company, resulting in 300 Stormtrooper helmets being transformed into diverse pieces of art, which inspired these collectible recreations—epic additions to every Empire.

Toy Story 20th Anniversary—In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of DisneyPixar’s Toy Story, Disney Store gleaned art from the adored film’s archives to illustrate the evolution of the beloved characters, Buzz and Woody. Featuring toys, collectibles, apparel, and more, this collection will be released at the Disney Store shop at D23 EXPO on Friday, August 14.


Disney Tsum Tsum—All-new collections of everyone’s favorite stackable plush will be unveiled at D23 EXPO, with one releasing each day in limited quantities in mini, medium, and large sizes. In addition, limited-edition mini box series—exclusive to D23 EXPO—will be released along with each collection, and a Mickey Mouse Tsum Tsum mini vinyl figure will be available for $5 with any purchase, while supplies last.

The Disney Store's "Disney's 3D Print Studio" is also launching at this year's D23 EXPO. It offers fans the chance to personalize figures, including Marvel's Iron Man, with their likeness with the use of facial-scanning kiosks. The figures will come with special packaging exclusive to the D23 EXPO.

Also new this year will be StorePass which we talked about in yesterday's blog. StorePass will allow fans to get a better shopping experience with minimal wait times in line. StorePasses will be available at 10 a.m. on August 14 with limited availability. 

This year's D23 EXPO is just 3 weeks away beginning Friday, August 14 and ending on Sunday, August 16 at the Anaheim Convention Center. 

My Top 5 Favorite Attractions at Hollywood Studios

Today we return to our series we began last weekend with my top 5 attractions at the parks. Today we dive into Hollywood Studios. Once again this is my opinion of my favorite attractions and in no way am I saying these are the best. So lets dive into my top 5 favorite attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

5.) The Great Movie Ride:

Let's go to the movies. In at no. 5 in my top 5 favorite attractions at Hollywood Studios is The Great Movie Ride. Sitting at the end of Hollywood Boulevard in the reproduction of Mann's Chinese Theater this classic ride takes you straight into your favorite movies. From Casablanca to The Wizard of Oz this ride makes you feel like you are part of the movie. This ride is a great family ride and I know that my family enjoy's it every time we are at Disney World. Like I said its a classic and has it humor too with your cast member that leads you into your journey. There are more than 50 realistic audio-animatronic figures with the likeness of Gene Kelly, Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, James Cagney, John Wayne, and so much more. So why don't you just step into the movies with no. 5 of my favorite attractions at Hollywood Studios, The Great Movie Ride.

4.) Muppet Vision 3D:

It's time to Meet the Muppets, in at no. 4 of my top 5 favorite attractions at Hollywood Studios is Muppet Vision 3D. I can't tell you how much I love the Muppets. From Kermit to Miss Piggy to Fozzie and Gonzo, you will see all your favorite Muppet stars. So let's put on our 3D glasses and dive into this crazy and funny attraction. While waiting for the show there is a 12-minute video of everything the Muppets do at their laboratory. It is the typical Muppet mayhem that happens in this video. You then step into the theater for more hijinx. With your 3D glasses on you head into Muppet Laboratories with Kermit who takes you meet Dr. Bunson Honeydew and his assistant Beaker. Things get disastrous when from their experiment the impish 3D experiment named Waldo is released. You have things going from bad to worse as they are preparing for the ending when Bean Bunny gets yelled at by Miss Piggy and he decides to run away. In the end you have Sam Eagle doing a dedication to America and Waldo making a big bang to end it exploding the lab. It ends with Kermit riding in on a fire truck through the wall of the theater that appears to be blown apart. It is a great show for people of all ages to enjoy. Muppet Vision 3D is no. 4 of my top 5 favorite attractions. 

3.) Toy Story Midway Mania

Jump into the Pixar World at Hollywood Studios with no. 3 of my top 5 favorite attractions, Toy Story Midway Mania. Another shooting arcade-like attraction, much like Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin in the Magic Kingdom, this attraction is in 3D and involves all the Toy Story characters. This ride is for everyone and is very much a ride that I love. The ride usually has lines lasting over an hour so a fastpass is a must for Toy Story Midway Mania. The ride consists of five 30 second games that let's you compete against family members while shooting different targets in the games. It is all in good fun because everyone is having a blast in your car. The ride lasts about 5 and half minutes and is worth every minute you are there. In my opinion this ride has potential to be my favorite ride but it isn't and that is why there is 2 more great attractions to go. For now no. 3 for Toy Story Midway  Mania of my top 5 favorite attractions at Hollywood Studios.

2.) Star Tours-The Adventures Continue:

Off in a galaxy far far away is no. 2 of my top 5 favorite attractions at Hollywood Studios, Star Tours-The Adventures Continue.  My love of Star Wars helps this ride be no. 2 on my list. From riding with C-3PO and R2-D2 and getting the chance to go on a different journey every time you ride. There are more than 50 different journeys you can take while on this ride. You get to visit either Naboo, Tatooine, Hoth, Kashyyk, and Coruscant. You also may encounter some of your favorite characters such as Darth Vader, Boba Fett, Yoda, Admiral Ackbar, Chewbacca, Sebulba, Princess Leia, and Jar Jar Binks.  This ride takes you into the world of Star Wars and you feel like your actually in the movie. I love Star Wars so anything with Star Wars at the parks is going to make my list. I really can't wait for Star Wars in the parks. In at no. 2 of my top 5 favorite attractions at Hollywood Studios is Star Tours- The Adventure Continues.

1.) Twilight Zone Tower of Terror:

We go to the Hollywood Hotel for my no. 1 favorite ride at Hollywood Studios with the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Are you ready to be taken into the twilight zone? Are you ready to be dropped 13 stories only to be tossed right back up? The Tower of Terror brings all those thrills and more on my favorite attraction. This ride is great no matter when you ride it. I love the thrill of not knowing whether I'm going to drop or be tossed up in the air like a rag doll. It's just great and the adrenaline rush you get from riding it is just exhilarating. The basis of the ride is a story of a family who while staying at the Hollywood Hotel while in an a elevator get sucked into the twilight zone when it is hit by lightning. The journey begins as you glide through different passageways in your elevator and then you go into the twilight zone. Just when you think your safe the thrill begins and the elevator drops you dramatically down and then pushes you back up and drops you again. It really is a great thrill ride and that is why it is no. 1 of my top 5 favorite attractions at Hollywood Studios.

So this was supposed to go up yesterday but I was busy and it never got finished so today you get a bonus blog. That's right 2 blog posts today, the next one will be up later on today. So literally in the words of Mickey Mouse, "See Ya Real Soon."

Your Daily News from Around Disney 2/11/15

Well, I'm not any better and I'm not any worse than I was yesterday. Life goes on and so does the blog. I am one day closer to my Disney vacation and I can't wait for it to get here already. Once again Disney is breaking news stories daily. Without further ado let's dive into your daily news from around Disney.

DCL Announces Star Wars Days on Certain Disney Fantasy Sailings:

Disney Cruise Line broke the news this morning that Star Wars Days at Sea are coming to certain Disney Fantasy sailings. The sailings are coming, starting in early 2016. The days are January 9th and 23rd, February 6th and 20th, March 5th and 19th, and April 2nd and 16th. All eight dates are on the Disney Fantasy sailing from Port Canaveral on a 7 day Western Caribbean cruise to Cozumel, Mexico, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, and of course Disney's private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.  Each of the eight sailings will have one day dedicated to Star Wars Days at Sea. Guests will be able to go to special events including a deck party, meet and greet with their favorite characters, Star Wars-themed youth activities, unique food and beverages, and special merchandise as well. Screenings of the Star Wars trilogy as well as the new Disney XD animated series Star Wars: Rebels will be available for guests. The Disney Parks Blog will have more details about Star Wars Days at Sea next week.

2017 Setting Up to be Huge Year at the Box Office for Disney:

With yesterday's news of Spider-Man being added to the Marvel Universe of Disney movies, 2017 is setting up to be a huge year at the box office for Disney. Currently scheduled there are 6 major films to be released during that year. It is currently set to start off with a bang in May with the release of "Guardians of the Galaxy 2". Pixar announced a few months ago that they were working to release "Toy Story 4" in June of 2017. After "Toy Story 3" grossed over a billion dollars in 2010, you would expect the next film to exceed a billion as well.  Other films set for a 2017 release date besides the films mentioned are: "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales", "Thor: Ragnarok", and "Star Wars Episode VIII". There is also an untitled Pixar film set to release in November of 2017. Is Disney going to break records at the movie theaters in 2017? Which film are you waiting for? Lastly, here is the list of tentative release dates for Disney's huge 2017:

May 5, 2017	"Guardians of the Galaxy 2"	Marvel
June 16, 2017	"Toy Story 4"	Pixar
July 7, 2017	"Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales"	Disney
July 28, 2017	untitled Spider-Man movie	Marvel / Sony Pictures
Nov. 3, 2017	"Thor: Ragnarok"	Marvel
Dec. 2017	"Star Wars: Episode VIII"	Lucasfilm

Read more:  http://www.businessinsider.com/disney-2017-movie-schedule-2015-2#ixzz3RThNJTJ6

When Will Disney Theme Parks Break the $100 Ticket Threshold:

It is not a matter of could Disney break the $100 ticket for a day at Disney theme park, is just a matter of when it will happen. It could be as early as this month, yesterday the Orlando Business Journal reported in an article. Their source WDW News Today states that a one-day Magic Kingdom park ticket could cost $105 (plus tax) while Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom would be $99 (plus tax) for a one-day ticket. Experts have said that consumers believe that $100/day ticket would be beyond their limit even though Magic Kingdom is already at $99 a day. So the question is what is everybody's limit on what they would pay to get into the parks? Is more than $100 to much for you?  With record attendance going into the parks, Disney doesn't seem to be afraid to raise ticket prices. Let it be known that Disney has yet to announce any ticket increases, but it seems the inevitable is going to happen.

This Day in Disney History:

On this day, 4 years ago in 2011, Walt Disney World's Toontown Fair closed at end of business day to make room for the new Fantasyland expansion.

Daily Disney Quote:

"I would rather entertain and hope that people learned something than educate people and hope they were entertained."

Walt Disney

Well that's all for today in the world of Disney news. Pretty interesting times are happening. From Star Wars to Marvel, Disney is in the news and looking to the future. We are all apart of it, so in the words of Mickey Mouse, "See Ya Real Soon."