Category Archives: Disney

Pixar Fest Begins April 13, 2018 at Disneyland Resort in California

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

As Disney Parks Chairman Bob Chapek announced at the D23 Expo in August, Disneyland Resort guests are invited to celebrate their favorite Disney·Pixar stories during Pixar Fest. Beginning April 13, 2018, this limited-time celebration of friendship and beyond will feature the debut of an all-new fireworks spectacular and the return of two favorite parades as well as even more beloved Pixar characters, new décor, atmosphere entertainment, themed food and beverage and new merchandise items.

“Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” will light up Disneyland park beginning April 13. In addition to dazzling pyrotechnics and memorable music, the theme of friendship, ever-present in most Pixar films, is celebrated in this nighttime spectacular. Guests are invited to embark on an emotional journey that starts when unlikely Pixar characters first meet. As they set out on adventures and overcome obstacles together, “Together Forever” celebrates the everlasting friendships forged by beloved Pixar pals. The story comes to life through projections on iconic park locations: Sleeping Beauty Castle, the water screens of the Rivers of America, the façade of “it’s a small world” and the buildings of Main Street, U.S.A. This nighttime spectacular will even feature a special flyover by Buzz Lightyear at Sleeping Beauty Castle.

‘CARS’ CHARACTERS ‘PAINT THE NIGHT’ (ANAHEIM, Calif.)— Mack from the Disney●Pixar ‘Cars’ films is one of the characters featured in this all-new new after-dark spectacular at Disneyland park inspired by the iconic ‘Main Street Electrical Parade.’ ‘Paint the Night’ is full of vibrant color and more than 1.5 million, brilliant LED lights and features special effects, unforgettable music, and energetic performances that bring beloved Disney and Disney●Pixar stories to life. Celebrating 60 years of magic, ‘Paint the Night’ is one of three new nighttime spectaculars which will immerse guests in the worlds of Disney stories like never before. The Diamond Celebration at the Disneyland Resort begins Friday, May 22, 2015.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Also on April 13, the popular “Paint the Night” parade will return, this time to Disney California Adventure park. The parade features many Pixar stories, including characters from “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.” and “Cars,” and another Pixar story will join “Paint the Night” parade later in the year.

With the launch of Pixar Fest, “Pixar Play Parade” will make its way through Disneyland park for the first time. The parade will begin as most Pixar films have, with an appearance by the iconic and adorable Pixar lamp. Other new parade elements will feature characters from “UP” and “Inside Out.”

The Pixar Shorts film festival will feature rotating favorites such as “For the Birds” and “Lava” at the Sunset Showcase Theater in Hollywood Land in Disney California Adventure park throughout most of Pixar Fest. The Paradise Gardens area will feature a new Pixar-themed musical troupe along with Pixar character greeting opportunities as well as crafts and activities for our younger guests.

Guests can get into character and celebrate friendship with a host of new merchandise, including an exclusive Pixar Fest charm bracelet. With multiple bracelet options and a variety of charms with fun friendship messages and favorite Pixar characters, guests can mix and match for themselves, or friends and family!

All of these exciting new experiences come in addition to the many attractions and entertainment throughout the Disneyland Resort that include your favorite Pixar characters. Join the celebration when Pixar Fest begins April 13, 2018!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Adventures by Disney Germany Itinerary Includes Architecture and Adventures

Adventures by Disney Germany Itinerary

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Adventures by Disney Germany Itinerary Includes Baroque Architecture and Treetop Adventures

Amidst the treetops and majestic Alps lies one of the most breathtaking baroque cities in Germany: Passau. This stop on the unforgettable Adventures by Disney Danube River cruise takes you on a walking tour through the “City of Three Rivers” and a trek along the treetops, and culminates with a celebration in true German fashion (Hint: it includes beer).

Enjoy a quaint stroll through the city of Passau led by a costumed local guide who takes you on a journey through the past. Highlights of the tour include experiencing the power of St. Stephen’s Cathedral’s more than 17,000 pipe organ and participating in a marzipan-making activity that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Then reach for the sky and walk along the treetops as you climb the famous Tree Path in Kopfing for an awe-inspiring view of the Alps. End your day German-style with an Oktoberfest celebration featuring local performers, music, folk dancing, pretzels and of course, beer. Prost!

Now is the time to take advantage of the limited time special rates on select 2017 Adventures by Disney vacation packages, including this one! Contact us for details!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Five Fun Facts about Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Perhaps one of the lesser known characters at Walt Disney World Resort is Sonny Eclipse, Magic Kingdom Park’s resident lounge singer, at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe.

The “biggest little star in the galaxy” has been entertaining guests at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park since 1995. Guests can catch his 27-minute set of tunes – and wisecracks – multiple times a day while they dine.

Here are five fun facts about the one and only Sonny Eclipse:

1. Sonny’s instrument is an Astro-Organ – The “out-of-this world” instrument he uses for accompaniment is a glowing keyboard-like creation called an Astro-Organ.
2. His hometown is Yew Nork City on Planet Zork – Sonny describes his hometown as a “topsy-turvy town where the subways are up and the streets are down.”
3. Sonny’s repertoire features only original songs – Sonny’s set includes eight original songs, including “Planetary Boogie,” “Bright Little Star,” “Space Angels” “Gravity Blues” and more. The songs were co-created by Walt Disney Imagineering and composer George Wilkens, who had previously written and arranged music for the Food Rocks attraction at Epcot and the “Honey, I Shrunk the Audience” pre-show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
4. Sonny loves jokes – Sonny incorporates many jokes into his act – the cornier the better! (“You know, I recently heard the universe was expanding. Guess it’s time to loosen the asteroid belt!”).
5. Sonny has three backup singers – Sonny is backed by an invisible trio known as the Space Angels.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Disneyland Throwback Nite to Kick Off Disneyland After Dark Events

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

When night falls, the Disneyland Resort lights up with even more magic – and beginning next year, you will be able to experience this enchanting time with a new series of events. Disneyland After Dark kicks off January 18 with its first after-hours event – Disneyland Throwback Nite!

Step back in time to the ‘50s and ‘60s for a taste of the classic after-dark experience at Disneyland. Come dressed in your best to enjoy the Happiest Place on Earth under a million twinkling lights, swinging to the tune of the bands and enjoying your favorite rides in the cool moonlight ‘till the clock strikes 1 a.m.!

Original attraction posters of Disneyland experiences from yesteryear welcome you as you commemorate the evening with special photo locations – and unlimited digital downloads are included with your event admission! Live music and dancing bring the bygone era to life throughout the park, and the sky lights up with an exclusive showing of “Fantasy in The Sky” fireworks. Guests will receive a commemorative lanyard and a vintage-inspired park map that will highlight the special experiences taking place throughout the evening.

This trip down memory lane will truly be one for the ages! Tickets for Disneyland’s Throwback Nite will be available on Disneyland.com for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders beginning Nov. 30 and for general public beginning Dec. 7.

And this is just the first in an ongoing series of unique events! Each Disneyland After Dark “nite” will be a can’t-miss experience featuring specialty entertainment, themed food, collectible merchandise and more.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Six Special Holiday Experiences Available During Very MerryTime Cruises

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The entire Disney Cruise Line fleet has now transformed into a glistening winter wonderland for the Very Merrytime Cruises. There’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a special atrium celebration, fun-filled tropical parties on deck, carolers throughout the ship and Disney friends dressed in their holiday best.

Check out some of the festive fun for you and your family on a Disney Cruise this holiday with these six special experiences during the Very MerryTime Cruises:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Deck the Deck with Mickey and Friends
Looking for a tropical holiday celebration? You and your little ones can join Mickey, Minnie and their pals for limbo, hula hooping and dancing around the pool. My personal favorite has to be the “Yuletide Slide!”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Celebrate the Season in a Winter Wonderland
When Santa and Mrs. Claus come to the ships, the atrium lobby is filled with classic holiday tunes, your favorite Disney characters and a flurry of “Frozen” fun with Anna and Elsa.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Savor Festive Feasts
Prepare to indulge a plethora of tasty holiday treats and drinks along with a bountiful feast on Thanksgiving Day and a special dinner on Christmas Day. There are also speciality teas and coffees available throughout the entire season including my favorites, Egg Nog Mocha and Caramel Pecan Chai!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. Carol Through the Decks
Listen up for the spirit of the holidays ringing throughout the ship as Dickens-inspired carolers sing holiday classics and invite children to join them in a special farewell show.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

5. Build Your Own Gingerbread House
From decorating stockings to making holiday cards, there are a ton of activities and crafts for your family. If that’s not enough gingerbread for you, each of our ships have a life-sized, edible gingerbread house right outside of the atriums.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

6. Soak Up the Season
When you visit Castaway Cay, the celebration continues with holiday island music,a special Christmas tree, Disney characters in their tropical holiday attire and even “snow” flurries!

Still looking for that perfect holiday gift? Give the gift of a Disney Cruise to your loved ones. From nautical to nice, the holiday cheer is finally here! Book your Very MerryTime Cruise today for 2017 or 2018!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Four Experiences During 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea with Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There’s no better way to celebrate your family’s love for Star Wars than with one epic day of galactic experiences aboard a weeklong Disney cruise to the Caribbean. Starting this January, 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea returns to the Disney Fantasy on 15 special sailings through April.

2018 Star Wars Day at Sea will no doubt be a memorable experience for your entire family.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Be ready to meet your favorite Star Wars characters.
Star Wars Day at Sea features an assembly of more than a dozen light and dark side characters. New for 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea, before you even step on the ship you can pre-schedule galactic encounters with C-3PO and R2-D2, Chewbacca and Darth Vader. Plus, you never know who you may bump into roaming around the ship, so always have your camera ready!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Let your kids check out Star Wars: Command Post while you get your own Star Wars fix.
In the new Star Wars: Command Post in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, there are Star Wars themed activities to keep your kids entertained for hours. So take some time for yourself and show off your knowledge at Star Wars Trivia, or brush up on the basics at Star Wars 101. Then join a lively presentation from one of the creative talents who has helped bring the Star Wars universe to life.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Enjoy the incredible entertainment as a family. 
One of the day’s signature family events is our costume celebration in the atrium. But of course you’re welcome to wear your best v attire all day long to extend the cosplay fun! Also as a family you can learn to draw some of your favorite characters at Star Wars Drawing Academy and join the ship-wide Star Wars Scavenger Hunt to find and decode secret messages and solve a mystery. Another must-do family activity is “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple,” where you can watch your young Padawans summon the courage and Force to face off against the dark side.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. Cap off the day with an action-packed deck party and amazing fireworks show. 
There’s no better way to wrap up the day than with fireworks at sea, especially when the incredible display is timed to John William’s classic Star Wars score. But first, you’ll be treated to a spectacular deck show, “Summon The Force,” which celebrates all of the great moments from across the Star Wars universe. It’s a celebration your family will not soon forget!

2018 Star Wars Day at Sea sounds like a pretty awesome day, don’t you agree? It’s not too late for your family experience the 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea during your family’s Caribbean cruise vacation! Contact us today to help!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Five Marvel Day at Sea Experiences on Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Top Five Marvel Day at Sea Experiences on Disney Cruise Line

The time has arrived when the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and menacing foes assemble on the Disney Magic to make the action-packed Marvel Day at Sea a reality! Now, enjoy your first official look at some of the exciting day-long entertainment and adventures that will transport you to a new realm of heroic possibilities with these Marvel Day at Sea experiences…

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“Marvel Heroes Unite”
For the first time ever, Marvel Super Heroes and Villains face off in an incredible battle at sea! The super-charged nighttime show fills the upper decks with special effects, stunts and pyrotechnics and music. The epic finale culminates in the largest collection of Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains ever assembled on a cruise ship.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“Doctor Strange: Journey into the Mystic Arts”
In a brand-new interactive show, sorcerer supreme Doctor Strange invites guests to join him on a journey of discovery into the world of the Mystic Arts.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Black Panther’s Debut
Making his very first appearance as part of a Disney vacation experience, Black Panther shares his secrets of super reflexes and extraordinary intellect during up-close encounters.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Heroic Encounters
Around the ship, you may happen upon your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, who is always quick with a word of encouragement and helping guests hone their Spider-senses. Other Marvel Super Heroes you may encounter onboard include Captain America, Iron Man, Thor and Black Widow, to name just a few.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“Mickey and Friends Super Hero Celebration”
Even Disney characters are getting in on the action! Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, Chip and Dale dress up to honor their favorite Marvel Super Heroes.

Marvel Day at Sea is on select 7- and 8-night Disney Cruise Line sailings from New York this fall, and returns on select 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in early 2018.

It’s not too late to book your Disney Cruise and enjoy all of these exciting Marvel Day at Sea experiences!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Pixar Pier to Feature Four New Neighborhoods at Disney California Adventure

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Summer 2018 will bring a transformed land for guests to experience at Disney California Adventure park when Pixar Pier opens along the southern shore of Paradise Bay, with newly themed attractions, foods and merchandise throughout. This new, permanent land in the area that is now Paradise Pier will introduce four new neighborhoods representing beloved Disney·Pixar stories.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

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 Screamin’, will open with Pixar Pier in summer 2018. This new experience will feature a mid-century-modern-style loading area, new character moments 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. 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.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Pixar Pier will open during the limited-time Pixar Fest celebration, which begins April 13. The celebration will include the new “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” fireworks as well as the return of Pixar Play Parade and “Paint the Night” parade, and much more throughout the entire Disneyland Resort.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

New Restaurant and More Planned for 2018 Disney Magic Refurbishment

The Disney Magic embodies the Disney Cruise Line tradition of blending the elegant grace of early 20th century transatlantic ocean liners with contemporary design to create a stylish and spectacular cruise ship. On the Disney Magic, guests can experience new adventures, explore re-imagined areas and discover exciting additions for the whole family. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Disney recently shared some details on the exciting enhancements debuting after the 2018 Disney Magic refurbishment is complete early next year. The new spaces and new experiences currently under development will include a Tangled-themed family restaurant, a fresh new space for teens and a sophisticated café for adults.

An Enchanting Dining Experience for Families

At Rapunzel’s Royal Table, your family will delight in an all-new dining experience inspired by the beloved story of Disney’s “Tangled.” The first table service restaurant themed to “Tangled” that features characters and live entertainment will transport Disney Magic guests to the kingdom of Corona for an evening of music and interactive fun with Rapunzel and the mischievous Snuggly Duckling Thugs.

Upon entering the restaurant, you’ll step inside a regal ballroom in the royal castle, lit by glowing wish lanterns and adorned with colorful drawings that reflect Rapunzel’s artistic talents. Here, the King and Queen of Corona invite you to take part in a festive celebration of Rapunzel’s birthday and the anniversary of her return to the kingdom.

Throughout dinner, you’ll be treated to live entertainment, including spirited singing and dancing, a merry band of musicians, the mischievous Snuggly Duckling Thugs and of course, Princess Rapunzel herself.

The family fun is complete with themed menus, special activities and a lively parade to cap off the evening in Corona. The charm and enchantment of “Tangled” in Rapunzel’s Royal Table is the perfect pairing to “Tangled: The Musical” – the spellbinding original production that delights guests during each Disney Magic sailing.

Redesigned Retreat Just for Teens

Vibe, the space on the ship reserved for teens ages 14-17, is being transformed into a trendy urban loft environment. At Vibe, teens can enjoy a new coffee and smoothie bar, play video and virtual reality games, and check out other cool activities like a DJ spin-off and movie making.

Refined Escape Exclusively for Adults

If it’s a grownup retreat you’re seeking, Cove Café is being redesigned in a sophisticated tropical style. It’s the perfect place to sip a specialty coffee or tea throughout the day, or indulge in wine or a cocktail and light bites during the evening hours.

Elsewhere around the Disney Magic, other enhancement highlights include the addition of Club Disney Junior in Disney’s Oceaneer Club for children and a redesigned Rainforest Room with steam and hydrotherapy in Senses Spa for adults.

The new enhancements debut on Disney Magic starting March 9, 2018, on sailings from Miami, Fla.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Black Friday Disney World Deal to Spend Christmas at Disney World

Black Friday Disney World Deal: Wrap Up the Ultimate Disney Christmas Package for Exclusive Holiday Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort
You can celebrate the magic of the holidays in The Most Magical Place on Earth with the Ultimate Disney Christmas Package at Walt Disney World® Resort. With this exclusive vacation package, you will arrive on December 21 and depart on December 26, 2017 and enjoy an itinerary full of magic, including special experiences just for Guests on this package! Take a look at all the unique Yuletide offerings included in this festive offer:
  • December 21, 2017- One ticket per Guest in your party to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park
  • December 22, 2017- Access to special nighttime Extra Magic Hours at Pandora- The World of Avatar within Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
  • December 23, 2017- A special holiday Character experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • December 24, 2017- An invitation to a special Christmas Eve dinner celebration at Epcot
  • December 25, 2017- A special holiday gift delivered to your Disney Resort hotel room

This special holiday vacation package also includes a 5-night stay at select Disney Moderate, Deluxe, or Deluxe Villa Resort hotels plus 4-day Theme Park tickets with Park Hopper option. These exclusive packages start at $139 per person, per night, for a family of four in a standard room at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Hurry, this offer is only available to book through December 10, 2017 and is subject to availability.

Plus, if you book with Siera at Destinations in Florida by Monday, November 27, 2017, every child in your family will also receive a FREE pair of Mickey ears! Contact Siera today to start planning your magical holiday vacation.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote.