Disney Cancels Lake Nona Project; Star Wars: Galactic Star Cruiser Closing Permanently in September

There is some breaking news out of the Walt Disney Company concerning Florida as they have decided to cancel the $1 billion Lake Nona project and the Star Wars: Galactic Star Cruiser will permanently close in September. 

Disney Cancels Lake Nona Project:

In an email to to staff, President of Disney Parks & Experiences, Josh D'Amaro says the company has decided not to move forward with the construction of the Lake Nona campus. The $1 billion campus which was supposed to be ready by next year with staff moves to the Orlando campus delayed until 2026. 

In the memo, he stated that it was not an easy decision but believes it is the right one to make. He also stated that the company will no longer be asking employees to relocate and that conversations with those of who have already relocated to possibly relocate back to California. 

The situation and feud with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis looms large as Disney is not playing around. D'Amaro stated, "I remain optimistic about the direction of our Walt Disney World business. We have plans to invest $17billion and create 13,000 jobs over the next 10 years. I hope we're able to do so."

Star Wars: Galactic Star Cruiser Closing Permanently in September:

Walt Disney World announced more shocking news today that the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will close permanently as of October 1, 2023 with the final voyage on the immersive experience occurring September 28-30,2023. Here is official announcement:

Many fans will say they saw this coming right from when Galactic Starcruiser opened due to the price. Going forward, Disney says it will focus resources on other opportunities that will be more accessible to its large group of fans. 

Breaking Disney News: Dining Plans Officially Coming Back, Park Pass Reservations for Dated Tickets Say Cya Later, and More

 Disney announced some very good news for Walt Disney World visitors today that beginning in 2024, the Dining Plan is coming back, park pass reservations for date-based tickets will be going away, good-to-go dates will be coming for Annual Passholders and Cast Members, extended park time will continue and even simplifying the ease of Genie+ by allowing for planning ahead of your trip.

Beginning January 9, 2024 guests visiting Walt Disney World who's reservations include date based tickets will no longer require Theme Park Reservations. Date-based tickets for reference are the standard tickets that guests purchase. For other admission types, including non-dated tickets, theme park reservations may be required to help Disney to continue managing attendance and delivering a great experience for everyone.

Also for reservations for January 9 or later guests may begin purchasing the Disney Dining Plan. The Dining Plan finally returns after being halted in July 2020 after the parks reopened during COVID. Packages for 2024 will open for purchase May 31. Guests will have the option to choose between the Quick Service Dining Plan and the regular Dining Plan. Pricing has not yet been released for the return of the Dining Plan.

For Annual Passholders and Cast Members, Disney is introducing good-to-go days. These select days will allows annual pass holders and cast members to enter the 4 parks without a reservation. Once introduced, good-to-go dates at the park will be rolled out on an ongoing basis. Good-to-go days will vary by park and  pass block out days as well as park capacity limitations will continue to apply. More details on good-to-go days will be released in the future.

Disney will continue to offer extended morning park hours at all four theme parks for guests staying at Walt Disney World Resorts in 2024. Extended evening hours will also continue to be available for Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villas guests for select days and select parks.

Finally, Disney will also begin offering the ease of planning your days with at the park ahead of your trips with Genie+. While a date of this rollout was not announced they do plan on releasing more details on this feature at a later date.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Dates Announced; Disney Vacation Clubs 17th Resort Announced for Disney's Fort Wilderness

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates Announced:

Its halfway to Halloween with Disney Parks and of the many announcements this week we officially have the dates for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for 2023. Parties will kick off later this summer beginning August 11 and will run through November 1. Here is the announcement from the Disney Parks Blog:

"With spellbinding entertainment, favorite Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best and more, celebrate the most haunting time of the year at Walt Disney World Resort. This limited-capacity, nighttime event starts at 7 p.m. and allows guests to experience shorter wait times on attractions, themed food and beverage and more. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green can purchase tickets starting April 27, and tickets will be available to all guests starting May 2. "

The event dates are:

August: 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29

September: 1, 4, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29

October: 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31

November: 1

Guests this year can enjoy a ghostly promenade with the Haunted Mansion Gravediggers during Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade. Mickey's Not-so-Spooky Spectacular fireworks and projections show will once again be hosted by the 'Pumpkin King' himself, Jack Skellington. Guests will also be able to trick-or-treat throughout Magic Kingdom on their favorite sweets and treats. If you enjoy the Sanderson Sisters, you can enjoy the stars of "Hocus Pocus" as they and their comrades as they summon the ultimate "Hocus Pocus" party potion in the "Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular" on stage at Cinderella Castle.

Finally, all guests can enjoy during the party their favorite attractions including Haunted Mansion, Big Thunder Mountain, and the newly open TRON: Lightcycle Power Run powered by Enterprise. Please note TRON will use a virtual queue during the party.

Are you excited for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?

Disney Vacation Club Announces its 17th Resort for Disney's Wilderness Resort:

Walt Disney World and the Disney Vacation Club today announced proposed plans to bring its 17th resort to Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. It will bring a refreshed look to the cabin hideaways at the resort offering guests a private retreat in the midst of nature many comforts of home.

It will be nestled across 750 acres where more than 350 new cabins will be replacing the old cabins, which have delighted guests for years. The cabins will be built with an eye toward the environment, utilizing the footprint of the existing cabins and taking advantage of more energy-efficient features.

Each proposed, stand-alone cabin offers spacious accommodations, sleeping up to six adults, and features a bedroom, bathroom, living room, full kitchen and private patio. A select number of cabins are also expected to be dog-friendly. The cabins are part of an extended refresh at Fort Wilderness which include a proposed pool and walking trail enhancements as well as the recently closed for refurbishment of Trail's End restaurant and Crockett's Tavern, with more exciting news to come.

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort is expected to open in 2024. Additional Information regarding project details, the start of sales and rental bookings will be released at a later date.

Week in Review: Walt Disney World Announces Plans for 2023, TRON Soft Opening, and Mickey's Toontown Reopens in Disneyland

 It was a busy week for the Disney theme parks in the US as the beginning of the week kicked off the press event for the opening of TRON: Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. During the event Disney made several announcements about what's to come this year at Walt Disney World.

Starting off on April 22, at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Moana will begin greeting guests along the Discovery River. This fall at Magic Kingdom, Mirabel from "Encanto"will greet guests in the Fairytale Garden, which will be transformed with whimsical decor by La Familia Madrigal. As previously announced at this past summer's D23 Expo, Figment will begin greeting guests at the Imagination Pavilion  later this year and Mickey & Friends will have a new home inside the brand new Communicore Hall at EPCOT!

Communicore Hall Concept Art

Speaking of EPCOT, the Disney 100th Celebration will shine spotlight on the park as this Fall, Journey of Water Inspired by Moana will open. Then later this year, an all new nighttime spectacular highlighting the 100 Years of Wonder will debut. 

Finally, a stunning new restaurant will open at Disney Springs in late 2023 in Summer House on the Lake. The restaurant embodies a breezy, beach house vibe featuring three expansive outdoor patios with a lake view. The California-inspired menu will feature simple, sustainable ingredients from pizza and pasta to fresh salads and sandwiches. 

I know I'm excited for my trip in November.

TRON is set to open in a little over 2 weeks, but starting tomorrow Monday, March 20 the ride will soft open to guests via virtual queue or via purchase of individual lightning lane. The soft opening will be available until April 2. 

Mickey's Toontown Reopens in Disneyland:

Mickey's Toontown is officially open in Disneyland as the reimagined land opened to guests today beginning a new era of ways families and young children can play together. The land was dedicated yesterday by Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock where he was joined by Mickey and the residents of Toontown including for the first time ever Pete is making appearances as he causes mischief around the neighborhood. 

CenToonial Park is the first place guests will see as they enter the land and is anchored by two new interactive play experiences: a beautiful fountain featuring water tables designed for play that invite you to have a sensory experience plus nearby a dreaming tree with sculpted tree roots for children to crawl around and explore. 

Goofy's How To Play Yard incorporates a whimsical sound garden where kids can discover new ways to make wacky noises, as well as an all new, elevated club house. Donald's Duck Pond will help little ones get all their wiggles and make a splash that is surrounded by larger than life spinning water lilies, balance beams and rocking toys. 

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway debuted in the land back on January 27 of this year with the reopening today it is joined by Chip & Dale's Gadget Coaster and the return of Mickey and Minnie's houses as well as Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin. 

Two all new dining locations have opened in the land in Cafe Daisy and Good Boy! Grocers Farmers Market. Cafe Daisy serves up playful spins on diner classics - including a plant-based option. At Good Boy! Grocers farmers market stand offers grab-and-go drinks, snacks and novelties.

Finally, located next to Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway, EngineEar Souvenirs features a selection of Mickey Mouse and pals toys, apparel, headwear and more to "choo-choo-choose" from including the all new Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway remote control trackless train.

That's all for this week and we will see you all real soon.

- John

Changes and Goodbyes Recently Announced for Walt Disney World

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disney World Discontinuing Complimentary Luggage Service for Hotel Resort Guests on Magical Express

Disney World Discontinuing Complimentary Luggage Service on Magical Express:

Effective July 16,2020, Guests using Walt Disney World's Magical Express will no longer be able to rely on the complimentary luggage service allowing luggage to delivered straight to their room when arriving or delivered back to Orlando International Airport when departing. Here is what Disney released on their website:

Disney’s Magical Express® Service

Complimentary airport transportation via Disney’s Magical Express service for Guests arriving and departing from Orlando International Airport is continuing to operate during this period, with some modifications. Beginning July 16, 2020 Disney’s Magical Express service will not be providing luggage delivery service for those arriving to and departing from the airport.

Guests who choose to use Disney’s Magical Express service will be responsible for picking up any of their checked luggage from the airport’s baggage claim area, so that it can be loaded onto the motorcoach to their Disney Resort hotel. Please know that your luggage will travel with you to your Disney Resort hotel.

Luggage assistance will be available at the front of your Disney Resort hotel, including luggage storage and/or transport to the room.

Upon your departure, please ensure your luggage is with you and is loaded onto the motorcoach, so you can check it in with your airline once you reach the airport. The resort airline check-in service will not be offered at this time.

Many airlines have modified their flight schedules, so please confirm your flight information. If you plan to use Disney’s Magical Express service, contact your room reservation booking agent, or call (407) 939-1936 to make any updates to your flight information on file.

Stay tuned to see if this is a permanent change or temporary.

Breaking: Say Goodbye to Splash Mountain at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Ride will be Re-Themed to Princess and the Frog

 

Concept Art of Re-Themed Splash Mountain

Disney dropped a bombshell on us this morning with the announcement of Splash Mountain at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World being re-themed to Princess and the Frog to set new adventures with Princess Tiana. A few weeks ago after it was rumored that Disney should re-theme the classic ride from its controversial theming from Disney's animated film "Song of the South". Disney has reportedly been working on the reimagination of the ride for over a year according to Disney Imagineer, Bob Weis.

The ride will pickup shortly after the film's final kiss where guests will join Princess Tiana and Louis on a musical adventure featuring some of the films powerful music as they prepare for their first ever Mardi Gras performance. Charita Carter, the senior creative producer leading the project at Walt Disney Imagineering shared this quote with the announcement, “Like Princess Tiana, I believe that courage and love are the key ingredients for wonderful adventures. I am delighted to be a part of bringing this fun-filled experience to our guests.”

For Imagineers, change is rooted in a tradition set by Walt Disney who encouraged new innovations, new ideas, new scenes and current storytelling. And the experiences they create can be enjoyed by guests who visit our parks from all over the world.

As part of the creative development process, conceptual design work is well underway and Imagineers will soon be able to conduct preliminary reviews and develop a timeline for when the transformation can start to take shape. As of now there is no timeline for when the reimagination will take place. It was announced the both attractions on both coast will open back up when Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom opens on July 11 and when Disneyland opens back up with its current theming. 

Stay tune for more information as we learn about the future of Splash Mountain. 

Disney Parks Pass Reservation System is Live, Struggles with IT to Start

New Rose Gold Castle Loading Screen this morning when the Disney Park Pass Reservation System went
 live.

We are just 3 weeks away from Walt Disney World re-opening after the devastating effects to our country due to Covid-19. This morning the new Disney Parks Pass Reservation system went live, but struggled with multiple IT issues due to overwhelming traffic on the site. Guests who already have a resort reservation and tickets from now until September 26, 2021.

The system which was supposed to go live at 7 a.m. EST/4 a.m. PST, however initial reports from Disney were that system was not live. After almost 2 hours of waiting guests attempting to make reservations on the new system, guests were finally able to make reservations at almost 9 a.m. EST. Once live it seems guests were able to make reservations with ease however there were still reports of loading trouble again that was most likely due to traffic on the site.

Disney should not have dumped everyone who had reservations already from now until September 2021 all into one phase of reservations as if it was phased into say 90 day time slots the system probably would have handled it better. Other issues were guests finding reservations to be sold out when reservations were actually still available on days as well as some guests reporting they were only able to get reservations for a certain amount of days on their trip as they were getting capped on the amount of days they can reserve in the park.

The next set of dates where guests can make reservations is June 26 where Annual Passholders without resort reservations can begin to make reservations. On June 28, any existing ticket holders without resort stays can make reservation requests.

Stay tuned for future updates on Disney's new reservation system, Disney Parks Pass, as well as Disney news right here on It All Started With a Mouse. 

Note: To my readers, its been a while I know. Since my last post almost 2 years ago, I have gotten married last September and now my first child is about to be born in the coming weeks. I am going to try and keep up with however there is no telling with a newborn coming in how I will be able to blog as much as I used to. This will not be a daily blog like it used to be. I do thank you all in advance for reading and of course you can always listen to me on the MouseLife podcast. 

Thank You,

John

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. 

Happy 4th of July Celebrate with #DisneyParksLIVE; New Fleet for Disney Magical Express

Happy 4th of July Celebrate with #DisneyParksLIVE:

Happy Birthday America! Tonight, as they have the past few years the Disney Parks Blog will live stream, “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” from Magic Kingdom. The #DisneyParksLIVE stream will begin at 9:10 p.m. EST. 

It is one of the most popular live streams and one of the best fireworks displays all year round. You will want to tune in for this one. Happy 4th of July everyone!

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Fleet Coming this Summer for Disney Magical Express:

On Monday, Walt Disney World Resort announced that the Disney Magical Express will be getting a modernized look with a new fleet this summer. 

The new fleet will be much like the Disney Cruise Line fleet and will display the iconic Disney script as seen above. Guests will also be seeing Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Donald, and Daisy on the busses. 

The new fleet will debut sometime later this summer.

Source: WDW News Today

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy Coming Early in 2019; New Image Unveiled for Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy Coming Early in 2019:

Toy Story Land may be opening tomorrow but today during the media event of What's Coming it was announced that a new show will debut in early 2019 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, a high-octane first-of-its-kind new show that’ll put you right in the middle of the world of Disney Pixar’s “Cars.”

It will be located near Rock 'N' Roller Coaster (most likely in the Sunset Showcase Theater). In Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy you will come you’ll come face-to-face with racing legend Lightning McQueen, who is excited to showcase what he’s learned over the years with you – the next generation of rookie racers. Of course, as Lightning McQueen has discovered throughout his career, things don’t always go according to plan, and he has to think fast to get back on course. With friends Tow Mater, Cruz Ramirez and the gang from Radiator Springs on his side, Lightning gears up for the challenge.

Will you be ready to rev your engines up when Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy debuts early next year?

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Image Unveiled for Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway:

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy wasn't the only news to come out of the media event as a new image for Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway was also unveiled.

The attraction will totally immerse guests in a cartoon world and will feature a new catchy theme song created especially for the attraction.
The fun begins when you see the premiere of a new cartoon short with Mickey and Minnie preparing for a picnic. As they head out, they drive alongside a train and find out that the engineer is Goofy. Then, one magical moment lets you step into the movie and on Goofy’s train for a wacky, wild ride.

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway although not announced officially is expected to open at Disney's Hollywood Studios sometime in Summer 2019.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Location Confirmed for Star Wars Immersive Resort at Disney's Hollywood Studios

We learned on Sunday that the village inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge would be called Black Spire Outpost. Today, the Disney Parks Blog confirmed the location of the exclusive Star Wars immersive resort planned for Disney's Hollywood Studios. 

It is currently in development on the south side of Disney's Hollywood Studios, just east of World Drive. It will be seamlessly connected to Galaxy's Edge which will allow guests to fully immerse themselves into the story of Star Wars.

This experience stands out among all of our destinations around the globe. Families visiting this destination will board a starship that comes alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them during their voyage through the galaxy – and every cabin window has views of space! Guests visiting the multi-day adventure will also be welcome to participate as a resident of the Galaxy by dressing in Star Wars-inspired attire.

Stay tuned for future updates on the immersive Star Wars Resort and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge in the coming months. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Village Inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Named

Village Inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Named:

During last night's Star Wars: Galactic Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, we got some new details on Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Last week it was officially announced that Galaxy's Edge would open Summer 2019 in Disneyland and late Fall 2019 at Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World. Guests will travel to the outer rim to the planet of Batuu and last night we learned that the village on Batuu will be called Black Spire Outpost. 

The largest settlement on the planet Batuu, Black Spire Outpost is an infamous stop for traders, adventurers, and smugglers traveling around the Outer Rim and Wild Space. Off the beaten path, this outpost has become a haven for the galaxy’s most colorful — and notorious — characters. Widely known for the petrified remains of its once towering ancient trees, the spires now stand guard across the river valleys and plains and have long captured the imagination of travelers to this planet. To the first settlers, these petrified spires became more than just landmarks; they became the heart of the outpost itself.

That's not all as we got our first look as the full size AT-AT's that are part of the unnamed Battle of the First Order attraction where guests will hop on a Resistance transport and be taken right into the middle of the battle. Guests will also see a familiar character from the saga will be recognized while visiting Batuu in Nien Nunb. 

There was more as there will be a stall full of creatures from the Star Wars universe on Batuu. This will include the famous Loth-Cats that may just be walking around the planet itself much like the rumored droids that will be roaming Galaxy's Edge. Loth-Cats are from Clone Wars as well as most recently ended "Star Wars Rebels" series.

We are getting closer and closer to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and stay tuned to hear even more details about Batuu and Black Spire Outpost in the coming months. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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

Japan Signature Restaurant Confirmed:

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

No More Shenanigans at Whispering Canyon Cafe:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: WDW News Today

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

Space-Themed Restaurant in Epcot Location Revealed:

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog

RUMOR: Epcot Entrance Hotel Work to Begin Soon:

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

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

We still await Disney to officially announce the resort.

Source: WDW News Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Disney Parks Blog