Category Archives: Disney World

Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July 25, 2016

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Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July 25, 2016

What’s New This Week?

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Walt Disney World Theme Parks

Magic Kingdom Park

Reminder! Early Morning Magic Extended: Earlier this year, Disney Early Morning Magic launched at Magic Kingdom Park to give eager guests the opportunity to be among the first to experience theme park attractions and breakfast inside the park. Early Morning Magic is a special ticketed event that allows guests access to select attractions and a breakfast inside the park all before park opening time. Disney Early Morning Magic been extended through September 30, 2016 for Magic Kingdom Park.

Epcot

New! Bookings Now Open for Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events: While there are plenty of events included with Epcot admission for the 21st Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, this year’s “premium events” include some don’t-miss options. Reservations are now open. Book via 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378), which opens at 7 a.m. each day. Go to epcotfoodfestival.com to choose your lineup.

Chefs from Disney and across the country serve up their finest creations during the Party for the Senses grand tasting experiences during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Each event, held at the park's World Showplace pavilion in Future World, promises an evening of exotic taste treats by Disney and celebrity chefs; wines, beers and other beverages from around the world; plus breathtaking acts by Cirque du Soleil "La Nouba." (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Chefs from Disney and across the country serve up their finest creations during the Party for the Senses grand tasting experiences during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Each event, held at the park’s World Showplace pavilion in Future World, promises an evening of exotic taste treats by Disney and celebrity chefs; wines, beers and other beverages from around the world; plus breathtaking acts by Cirque du Soleil “La Nouba.” (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

New! PizzeRizzo Restaurant Replacing Pizza Planet: Pizza lovers, rejoice! PizzeRizzo will open this fall in Muppets Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, in the former Toy Story Pizza Planet location. Rizzo The Rat owns and operates the pizzeria, where guests can grab a pizza pie and a cold drink. Enjoy a casual Italian-American dining experience in a whole new way, through the eyes of the lovable, wisecracking Muppet.

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New! Club Villain Returns this Fall: Due to the popularity of Club Villain, it will return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this fall. Reservations have been opened for select dates beginning in September. Shows will be hosted every Friday and Saturday during September and October, with two shows performed nightly at 5:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Additionally, shows will be offered on Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31. As a reminder, Club Villain is a ticketed dining and entertainment offering held in Sunset Showcase providing a spellbinding evening for Guests to enjoy savory culinary delights from New Orleans and beyond, fiendish concoctions from the Potions Bar, meet with the villains and dance the night away.

New! Character Meet and Greet Location Changes: Goofy, Chip & Dale are located on Commissary Lane across from Writer’s Stop, while Daisy & Donald are by the main entrance in front of Sid’s porch.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

New! New Animals at Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch: Ameraucana chickens, silver leghorn chickens, and naked-neck turkens are the newest animals at Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

New! Surrey Bike Rentals Now Available at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort: New surrey bike rentals became available on Monday, July 18. Guest can rent single and double surrey bikes, beach cruisers and elliptical bikes at the marina between noon–8 p.m. daily.

New! First Look Inside AbracadaBar at Disney’s BoardWalk:  AbracadaBar is a new cocktail lounge that will soon open for business at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. When it comes to describing this new location, “magic” is key. As the story goes, this little lounge was a former stomping ground for the famous magicians, boardwalk illusionists, and lovely magician’s assistants of the Golden Age. After a show, prestidigitators would gather to “conjure” up new cocktails, swap magic tips and tricks, and stay up all night attempting to “out-charm” each other with their extraordinary illusions. According to BoardWalk lore, it was on just such an evening that every single magician in the lounge vanished into thin air, and was never seen again … Now, after sitting vacant for nearly seventy years, the secret magician’s lounge is now back in the spotlight and making its world debut as “AbracadaBar.” Once inside, guests will get a special peek at the sophisticated social club of some of the most famous illusionists of the 20th century. While it’s rumored that the magicians who frequented the lounge vanished without a trace decades ago, their magic still remains strongly intact, and can be seen, heard, and savored in the bar’s signature cocktails.

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Walt Disney World Resort – General

New! “Get Directions” on My Disney Experience: Guests can now navigate Walt Disney World Resort through a new, GPS way-finding feature, “Get Directions,” on the My Disney Experience mobile app. This addition will allow Guests to conveniently navigate to their favorite Walt Disney World destination whether walking or taking Walt Disney World Resort Transportation.

New! The Polite Pig to Open in 2017 at Disney Springs: The Polite Pig will bring a new twist on favorite local flavors to Disney Springs when it opens in spring 2017. A sister restaurant to The Ravenous Pig of Winter Park, FL, The Polite Pig will feature a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program that serves all drinks on tap, including locally-brewed Cask & Larder beer, wine and cocktails. The 5,000-square-foot venue will be open daily for lunch and dinner, with seating for about 200 guests.

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Merchandise Events

New! Magic Kingdom 45th Anniversary Products Arriving in Fall 2016: The 45th Anniversary of Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort is only a few months away. The Magic Kingdom 45th Anniversary assortment contains a variety of apparel items for adults including short and long-sleeved shirts. Guests will also find two Dooney & Bourke handbags that will each contain a 45th Anniversary leather hangtag.  There are several unique souvenirs for this celebration including a 1000-piece puzzle, a light-up ear hat ornament, an antenna topper, and a pennant with candy. The arts and collectibles team is releasing two limited edition coins – a 39mm commemorative copper coin that is presented in a custom acrylic display; and a silver plated coin in a box. Both coins will feature the Magic Kingdom 45th anniversary artwork.

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Closures and Refurbishments

Click here to view the latest renovations and closures at Walt Disney World Resort.

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. 

Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July 18, 2016

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Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July 18, 2016

What’s New This Week?

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Walt Disney World Theme Parks

Magic Kingdom Park

New! Early Morning Magic Extended: Earlier this year, Disney Early Morning Magic launched at Magic Kingdom Park to give eager guests the opportunity to be among the first to experience theme park attractions and breakfast inside the park. Early Morning Magic is a special ticketed event that allows guests access to select attractions and a breakfast inside the park all before park opening time. Disney Early Morning Magic been extended through September 30, 2016 for Magic Kingdom Park.

Epcot

New! Eat to the Beat Lineup Announced for 21st Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: Eight new acts join the Eat to the Beat concert series this fall. Festival newbie Wang Chung kicks off the first two nights. The other festival first-timers include BoDeans, Plain White T’s, Jeffrey Osborne, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Living Colour, Soul Asylum and Delta Rae.

Here’s a look at the full lineup:

  • Sept. 14-15 – Wang Chung NEW! “Everybody Have Fun Tonight”
  • Sept. 16-18 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”
  • Sept. 19-20 – Air Supply “All Out of Love”
  • Sept. 21-23 – BoDeans NEW! “Closer to Free”
  • Sept. 24-25 – Fuel “Hemorrhage (In My Hands)”
  • Sept. 26-28 – Sugar Ray “Fly”
  • Sept. 29-30 – Los Lobos “La Bamba”
  • Oct. 1-2 – David Cook “Light On”
  • Oct. 3-4 – Wilson Phillips “Hold On”
  • Oct. 5-6 – Blues Traveler “Run-Around”
  • Oct. 7-9 – Plain White T’s NEW! “Hey There Delilah”
  • Oct. 10-11 – 38 Special “Hold On Loosely”
  • Oct. 12-13 – Jeffrey Osborne NEW! “On the Wings of Love”
  • Oct. 14-16 – Tiffany “I Think We’re Alone Now”
  • Oct. 17-19 – Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx “Lady”
  • Oct. 20-21 – Christopher Cross “Sailing”
  • Oct. 22-23 – Toad The Wet Sprocket NEW! “Walk on the Ocean”
  • Oct. 24-25 – Chaka Khan “I Feel for You”
  • Oct. 26-27 – Billy Ocean “Caribbean Queen”
  • Oct. 28-29 – Living Colour NEW! “Cult of Personality”
  • Oct. 30-Nov. 1 – Hanson “Get the Girl Back”
  • Nov. 2-3 – Soul Asylum NEW! “Runaway Train”
  • Nov. 4-6 – Delta Rae NEW! “Bottom of the River”
  • Nov. 7-9 – Boyz II Men “Motownphilly”
  • Nov. 10-11 – Sister Hazel “All For You”
  • Nov. 12-14 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy “Go Daddy-O”

Performances are 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 p.m. daily, and included in Epcot admission. (Lineup is subject to change; songs listed are for artist recognition only and may not be included in the concert play list.)

New! Musique Aramenco Now Performing in Morocco: Musique Aramenco is the newest group to perform on the Morocco stage. The show incorporates the darbuka drum — the heart of folkloric and modern music — violins, and a belly dancer to create a pleasing fusion of traditional and popular dance music and melodies one might hear in countries along the Southern Mediterranean and Northern Africa.

Reminder! Sounds Like Summer Concert Series Started June 5: Enjoy another rocking rendezvous—the fun takes place at America Gardens Theatre with the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series. Featuring renditions of songs from Boston and the Eagles to covers of classics by Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen and the Bee Gees, Sounds Like Summer is a cover-band blast from the past that’s fun for the whole family. The summer concerts for the upcoming week include:

  • July 17-23: DSB – A Tribute to Journey

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

New! Disney Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Start August 1: Disney’s Hollywood Studios will soon offer Disney Early Morning Magic! Beginning August 1, a select number of guests can experience Disney Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Beginning at 7:45 a.m., guests can enter the park and experience Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Toy Story Mania!, Pixar Place character greetings (with Woody and Buzz), and Mickey and Minnie on Commissary Lane and Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight. Guests can also partake in an all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast at ABC Commissary from 8-10 a.m. Separate Disney’s Hollywood Studios admission is required. The price is $69 per adult and $59 per child (ages 3 through 9) plus tax.

New! Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party: At the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can experience out-of-this-world desserts and drinks inside Star Wars Launch Bay. Become immersed in the Star Wars universe with photo opportunities, exciting exhibits and thrilling character encounters. After enjoying an assortment of sweets — including themed cupcakes, cookies and brownies and a selection of savory snacks including cheese and flatbread and dip (as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages) — you will be escorted to a VIP viewing area for the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. Cost is $69 for adults, $39 for children age 3-9. Admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is required to attend, and is not included in the price of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party. Reservations can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

The new nightly Star Wars fireworks show, "Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular," combines fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that turn the nearby Chinese Theater and other buildings at Disney's Hollywood Studios into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, Starkiller Base and other Star Wars destinations. The show also features a tower of fire and spotlight beams, creating massive lightsabers in the sky. (David Roark, photographer)

The new nightly Star Wars fireworks show, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” combines fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that turn the nearby Chinese Theater and other buildings at Disney’s Hollywood Studios into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, Starkiller Base and other Star Wars destinations. The show also features a tower of fire and spotlight beams, creating massive lightsabers in the sky. (David Roark, photographer)

New! Summer Strawberry Specialty Cupcakes Now Available: Take a bite out of summer with the new summer strawberry specialty cupcake now at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This cupcake will be available at the following locations: Catalina Eddie’s, Fairfax Fare, Rosie’s All-American Café, Starring Rolls Café, Trolley Car Café. This cupcake is included in the Disney Dining Plan and will be available through Aug 31.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Reminder! Tiffins Offering a Small Plate Lunch Menu: A new lunch menu featuring a smaller portions of Tiffins’ most popular dishes debuted at the restaurant on Sunday, July 3. From 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. each day, Guests will have the option of pairing two options from the menu along with a Jade rice blend for just $28 per person, plus tax and gratuity. The Taste of Tiffins lunch menu, the options allow Guests to select from the following ten dishes: flash-fried blue mussels, black-eyed pea fritters, crispy Yellowtail Snapper, sustainable fish crudo, 72-hour beef short rib, salad of roasted baby beets, market vegetable curry, marinated grilled octopus, Chermoula-rubbed chicken, or the masa and pulled pork tamale. Guests are also able to order from the existing all-day menu.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

New! Celebrate Africa on July 20th at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Guests of all ages to join our Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge to celebrate African culture on Wednesday, July 20, 10-11 a.m. in the Jambo House lobby. This celebration will feature music, dancing and plenty of inspiration as our cultural representatives proudly represent their home countries. Guests may have their faces painted and will have the opportunity to learn about the many activities that make African culture so  unique.

Walt Disney World Resort – General

New! Chef Art’s Homecoming Opens at Disney Springs: Chef Art Smith, a native of Jasper, Fla., (and former cast member in the Disney College Program), gives guests a taste of classic Florida fare. Featuring classic Southern fare in a casual, family-friendly setting, Homecoming overlooks The Spring and offers menu items including Art’s Fabulous Fried Chicken, Shrimp & Grits, Fried Catfish, Momma’s Mac and Cheese and Shine Cake. The table service restaurant also serves grab-and-go items including Fried Chicken and Chopped Pork sandwiches. Homecoming is open Sunday through Thursday until midnight and Friday and Saturday until 1 a.m.

Chef Art Smith who will be opening his new restaurant Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine at Disney Springs in 2016. Photo by Tom Burton

Chef Art Smith who will be opening his new restaurant Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine at Disney Springs in 2016. Photo by Tom Burton

New! Attend a Dooney & Bourke Release Party on July 23 in Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs: On Saturday, July 23 at Cherry Tree Lane inside the Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs, Dooney & Bourke will hold a Release Party for the new Dooney & Bourke Disney items coming out this summer. At this event, we are releasing two new collections including handbags inspired by the classic Disney Parks attraction, “it’s a small world.” The four silhouettes in this collection will include a Shopper Tote, a Pouchette, a Wallet and a Wristlet.

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The second collection, called “Lovebirds,” will include a Shopper Tote and a Letter Carrier.

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For the first time, we will introduce four limited edition retail MagicBands containing Dooney & Bourke-inspired designs. Each MagicBand will have an edition size of 1,500, and each MagicBand will contain a specially designed slider with the Dooney & Bourke logo. The MagicBands will be packaged in decorative boxes.

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Finally, guests attending this release party will have an opportunity to meet Ian Ray, Creative Director for Dooney & Bourke. He will be appearing at Cherry Tree Lane from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. that day.

Merchandise Events

Disney Springs

July 20 – 24: Artist Greg McCullough returns to Art of Disney in Disney Springs Marketplace with special appearances and signings from 1 – 8 p.m., each day.

Epcot

July 21 – 24: Meet renowned international artist Larry Dotson from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. at Art of Disney.

Closures and Refurbishments

Click here to view the latest renovations and closures at Walt Disney World Resort.

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. 

Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July 11, 2016

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Around the Mouse: Walt Disney World News, July  11, 2016

What’s New This Week?

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Walt Disney World Theme Parks

Magic Kingdom Park

New! PinQuest Scavenger Hunt for Limited Release Pins:  A new Disney pin trading scavenger hunt debuted in Magic Kingdom Park on June 30. Featuring Steampunk-inspired artwork, this Disney PinQuest starts with a purchase of an adventure kit, which contains a lanyard to showcase your pins; a decoder medal for use with PinQuest pins; and a lanyard pouch to hold the map included in the adventure kit. The lanyard pouch also holds PinQuest clue cards which are sold separately.

There are six different PinQuest clue cards. Each clue card has a question that needs answered and shared with a NavigatEAR Cast Member in a particular location. Once solved, you can redeem the clue card for a PinQuest pin using the perforated ticket on the bottom of the clue card. Continue the hunt by using the decoder medal from the adventure kit. Line up the arrows for each pin to determine your next destination within Magic Kingdom Park. After purchasing all six clue cards and receiving stamps and pins from each location, guests who have completed the entire Magic Kingdom PinQuest are eligible to purchase a QuestEAR pin completer pin.

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Update! Diamond Horseshoe Open for Lunch and Dinner through Sept 10: Magic Kingdom Park guests will continue to have a table-service option for lunch and dinner at The Diamond Horseshoe through September 10. The Diamond Horseshoe is open daily, serving up a hearty, all-you-care-to-enjoy feast for Guests. As a reminder, the meal includes a salad, followed by a platter of flavorful entrees to choose from: barbecue pulled pork, sliced turkey, country smoked sausage or braised beef with all the fixin’s. Dessert is a chocolate brownie topped with a toasted marshmallow. Pricing is $33 plus tax for adults; $19 plus tax for children ages 3-9 years. Reservations are available.

Epcot

New! Taste Track Reopened With New Menu: Open daily from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., Taste Track offers sweet treats in addition to a variety of soft drinks and hard sodas. This kiosk offers the following menu options:

  • Hot Fudge Sundae-  Choice of vanilla, chocolate or swirl ice cream with hot fudge and choice of toppings rainbow sprinkles, chocolate sprinkles, or waffle cone pieces
  • Caramel sundae – Choice of vanilla, chocolate or swirl ice cream with caramel and choice of toppings rainbow sprinkles, chocolate sprinkles, or waffle cone pieces
  • Ice cream cookie sandwich – Choice of vanilla chocolate or swirl ice cream
  • Soft serve ice cream – Choice of vanilla, chocolate or swirl served in a waffle cone
  • Ice Cream Float – Barq’s Root Beer, Coke, or Diet coke with choice of ice cream
  • Not Your Father’s Hard Root Beer Float – Not your Father’s Hard Root Beer with choice of ice cream
  • Henry’s Hard Orange Soda Float – Henry’s Hard Orange Soda with choice of ice cream

New! 2016 Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Now On Sale: As a part of Holidays Around the World at Epcot, the Candlelight Processional presents the story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. Celebrity narrators this year include some returning favorites like contemporary Christian music singer Steven Curtis Chapman, actors Whoopi Goldberg and Neil Patrick Harris and newcomers like legendary baseball player Cal Ripken, Jr. Here’s the list that’s been announced so far:

  • 11/25-27 – Steven Curtis Chapman
  • 11/28-12/1 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • 12/2-12/3 – Whoopi Goldberg
  • 12/4-12/12 – TBA
  • 12/13-12/15 – Meredith Vieira
  • 12/16-12/18 – TBA
  • 12/19-12/21 – Joe Morton
  • 12/22-12/27 – TBA
  • 12/28-12/30 – Cal Ripken, Jr.

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the American Gardens Theatre. The Candlelight Processional Dinner packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited. This year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite Epcot restaurants like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk.

Presented in the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot, Candlelight Processional is one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World Resort. Featuring a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a glorious mass choir, this festive performance takes place annually in November and December. Show times are at 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. Epcot is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Presented in the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot, Candlelight Processional is one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World Resort. Featuring a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a glorious mass choir, this festive performance takes place annually in November and December. Show times are at 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. Epcot is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Reminder! Sounds Like Summer Concert Series Started June 5: Enjoy another rocking rendezvous—the fun takes place at America Gardens Theatre with the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series. Featuring renditions of songs from Boston and the Eagles to covers of classics by Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen and the Bee Gees, Sounds Like Summer is a cover-band blast from the past that’s fun for the whole family. The summer concerts for the upcoming week include:

  • July 10-16: Bruce in the USA – A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen
  • July 17-23: DSB – A Tribute to Journey

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Reminder! Sneak Peek of “Pete’s Dragon” Now Playing: For a limited time starting July 1, a sneak peek of Disney’s reimagined classic “Pete’s Dragon” will be presented as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

New! Tiffins Offering a Small Plate Lunch Menu: A new lunch menu featuring a smaller portions of Tiffins’ most popular dishes debuted at the restaurant on Sunday, July 3. From 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. each day, Guests will have the option of pairing two options from the menu along with a Jade rice blend for just $28 per person, plus tax and gratuity. The Taste of Tiffins lunch menu, the options allow Guests to select from the following ten dishes: flash-fried blue mussels, black-eyed pea fritters, crispy Yellowtail Snapper, sustainable fish crudo, 72-hour beef short rib, salad of roasted baby beets, market vegetable curry, marinated grilled octopus, Chermoula-rubbed chicken, or the masa and pulled pork tamale. Guests are also able to order from the existing all-day menu.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

New! Disney Countdown to Midnight – A New Year’s Eve Celebration at Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Disney Countdown to Midnight – A New Year’s Eve Celebration at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is returning to ring in 2017 with even more excitement than last year. During this extraordinary event beginning at 8 p.m. at the resort hotel’s Convention Center, partygoers will experience the past, present and future in a myriad of magical ways. The event will boast a variety of entertainment offerings, kicking off with groovy dance music spanning from the ‘60s to today. Other musical acts such as Alter Ego will perform their extravagant music and dance-filled revue, as well as a unique musical act that will put a retro twist on songs of today. The culinary experience will feature best-of-the-best bites and wine pairings from California Grill, Flying Fish, Cítricos and Narcoossee’s. Guests will have the opportunity to view Magic Kingdom’s New Year’s Eve “Fantasy in the Sky fireworks Spectacular. Tickets will be $225 (including tax and gratuity) and can be purchased at Disneyworld.com/countdown or by calling 407-WDW-DINE beginning July 4.

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Walt Disney World Resort – General

New! Additional Disney Springs Locations Now Open: The following locations are now open in Town Center:

  • Sugarboo & Co. is a dealer in whimsy and fine fanciful goods, from uplifting art prints to charming home goods and whimsical paper products.
  • Columbia Sportswear offers innovative apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment for outdoor and fishing enthusiasts, including the Performance Fishing Gear collection designed with industry-leading technologies.
  • Shore is a fashionable American lifestyle brand featuring swimwear, fitness wear and everyday comfort clothing, with a selection of exclusive apparel only available at Disney Springs.
  • Superdry features clothing with designs that fuse vintage Americana and Japanese-inspired graphics with a British style, offering products from outerwear and knitwear to leather goods and leisurewear.
  • Coca-Cola Store Orlando features a wide variety of Coca-Cola merchandise and a rooftop beverage bar. Guests can choose from several Coca-Cola brands from around the world, frozen beverages and over 100 drink choices via Coca-Cola Freestyle. A selection of specialty adult beverages are available in the evenings beginning July 8.

New! New Colors from Vera Bradley Blooming at Disney Parks in Summer 2016:  Two new Vera Bradley colors are coming to Disney Parks this summer. In July, guests will find the Mickey’s Magical Blooms collection. This signature quilted cotton assortment includes a Campus Backpack, Mini Hipster and Front Zip Wallet, Zip ID Case, Medium Zip Cosmetic Bag, Triple Zip Hipster, Vera Bag and Large Duffel.

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In August, Vera Bradley is releasing the lightweight Lighten Up Collection made of durable and water-resistant 560D polyester. The Lighten Up Collection will include Vera Bradley’s best-selling styles including the Lighten Up Lunch Cooler, Lighten Up Travel Organizer, Lighten Up Expandable Tote, Lighten Up Grande Backpack and Lighten Up Expandable Travel Bag.

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New! ‘Words Are Powerful’ Bangles from ALEX AND ANI: ALEX AND ANI recently introduced new “Words Are Powerful” color infusion bangles inspired by Disney sayings and attributes of some of our most beloved characters. On July 18, they will continue the release of these amazing new pieces. From Elsa is a reminder to let it go and “Be True To Yourself.” Depicted on an icy blue colored charm, her iconic silhouette is framed by frozen fractals. The other uplifting bangle encourages you to “think happy thoughts,” highlighting everyone’s favorite spirited pixie, Tinker Bell! Each of these bangles costs $44.95 plus tax and will be available in both Shiny Gold and Shiny Silver finishes. They will be available online, on the Shop Disney Parks app via Shop iOS or Shop Android, and in stores at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts.

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Reminder! Refillable Popcorn Buckets Offered: Between June 26 and September 1, Walt Disney World locations are offering a souvenir popcorn bucket that may be refilled throughout the day at the Walt Disney World Resort. Guests may purchase the bucket for $10 with refills available for $1.50 each. This offering is available in Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs and ESPN Wide World of Sports. The refill will be sold at all popcorn carts, but refillable buckets may only be available at select carts.

Merchandise Events

Epcot

July 12 – 15: Fragrance designer Geir Ness will be on hand for special appearances as he showcases the latest from his Laila fragrance and beauty collection. Meet Geir from Noon – 6 p.m., each day, at Puffin’s Roost in the Norway Pavilion.

July 13 – 16: As you travel around World Showcase, be sure to make a quick stop at La Signature in the France Pavilion where you’ll find the latest releases in fragrances and cosmetics from Guerlain.

Closures and Refurbishments

Click here to view the latest renovations and closures at Walt Disney World Resort.

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. 

Get Up to $100 Disney Gift Card for FREE This Week

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  • Free Itinerary Planning (valued at $99.99)
  • Free autographed pictures of Mickey Mouse or the Disney Princesses for the kids in your family
  • FREE Disney Gift Card

The Disney Gift Card amount varies based on your package total.

Package Total – Disney Gift Card Amount
$2500 – $2999 / Free $40 Disney Gift Card
$3000 – $3500 / Free $50 Disney Gift Card
$3501 – $3999 / Free $60 Disney Gift Card
$4000 – $4500 / Free $75 Disney Gift Card
$4501 – $4999 / Free $90 Disney Gift Card
$5000 and up / Free $100 Disney Gift Card

*To qualify for the transfer the package must be booked within the last 30 days and not paid in full. The package must be booked directly with Disney Travel (online at disneyworld.com or by phone). The gift card will be mailed with your final documents 10 – 15 days before check in.

Hurry though as this offer is only good through Friday, July 1, 2016!

Call me at 734-771-1290 or email me at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to transfer your Disney Package today!

New Details About Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios and Disneyland

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Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios

I’m sure by now you’ve heard that Disney is developing Star Wars Land at Hollywood Studios. However, have you heard all of the exciting details planned for this incredible expansion?

What Newest Developments Have Emerged About Star Wars Land?

Star Wars-themed lands will be coming to Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif., and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Fla., transporting guests to a never-before-seen planet, a remote trading port and one of the last stops before wild space where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life.

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There will be two signature attractions, including the ability to take the controls of one of the most recognizable ships in the galaxy, the Millennium Falcon, on a customized secret mission, and an epic Star Wars adventure that puts guests in the middle of a climactic battle.

Inside these authentic lands, guests will be able to step aboard The Millennium Falcon and actually pilot the fastest ship in the galaxy, steering the vessel through space, firing the laser cannons, in complete control of the experience. And with the arrival of the First Order to the planet, guests will find themselves in the middle of a tense battle between stormtroopers and Resistance fighters.

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Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger announced at D23 EXPO 2015 that Star Wars-themed lands will be coming to Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif., and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Fla., creating Disney’s largest single-themed land expansions ever at 14-acres each.

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Book a Disney World vacation package with us totaling at least $2,500 by May 31, 2016 and receive a FREE Build Your Own Light Saber Experience!

Contact Siera today at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or to request your free, no obligation quote! 

New Star Wars Events at Disney World This Spring and Summer

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Star Wars Events at Disney World

We just can’t get enough Star Wars, can we? A whole new generation has now fallen in love with Star Wars thanks to The Force Awakens. Star Wars is a big draw for many families at Disney World so you may want to check out these new Star Wars events at Disney World this spring and summer.

New Star Wars Nighttime Show is Sure to be a Blockbuster!

Following the extraordinary popularity of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Walt Disney World Resort is unveiling even more new Star Wars themed entertainment at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting this spring – including one of the most elaborate fireworks and projection shows in the park’s history.

Just in time for spring, that “galaxy far, far away’’ will be closer than ever with the April 4th arrival of the newStar Wars live entertainment experience Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away and a menacing First Order stormtrooper procession at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And to kick off summer, the park is launching a new nightly fireworks and projection show called Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular that will eclipse anything of its kind in the park’s history.

These new Star Wars entertainment elements, coupled with other recently-added Star Wars experiences, make Disney’s Hollywood Studios the place for fans to celebrate their Star Wars passion.

Here are details on these latest entertainment features coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this spring and summer:

Now Available:

  • Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away: This new live, stage show celebrates iconic moments from the Star Wars saga with live vignettes featuring popular Star Wars characters, such as Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, Darth Vader and Darth Maul. The show will take place multiple times each day at the Center Stage area near The Great Movie Ride.
  • Stormtroopers march: At various times each day, the menacing Captain Phasma will lead a squad of First Order stormtroopers as they march in formation from Star Wars Launch Bay to the Center Stage area in an intimidating demonstration of the First Order’s indomitable strength.

SUMMER:

  • Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular: As the next generation of the current Star Wars-inspired fireworks show, this blockbuster nightly show, unprecedented in Disney’s Hollywood Studios history, will light up the sky with Star Wars-themed fireworks, lasers, light projections and other special effects combined with Star Wars-themed music and iconic characters and scenes from throughout the saga.

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Through these state-of-the-art special effects that project onto the nearby Chinese Theatre and other surrounding buildings, guests will gaze at the twin suns of Tatooine, push through a field of battle droids, navigate through an asteroid field, soar down the trench of the Death Star and deliver the final blow to destroy Starkiller Base. The show, which will unfold through a series of acts, will be punctuated by a tower of fire as well as powerful spotlight beams that create lightsabers in the sky.

These latest Star Wars experiences join other new Star Wars elements recently launched at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, such as Star Wars Launch Bay. Since its debut in December, Star Wars Launch Bay has become a popular and central location where guests immerse themselves in the Star Wars saga through themed galleries, large-scale artifacts and Star Wars character encounters, including recently-added Kylo Ren, the menacing character from Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Other recent additions that have attracted legions of fans since their December debut include:

  • Star Wars: Path of the Jedi, a cinematic reel celebrating the Star Wars
  • The enhanced Star Tours – The Adventures Continue that includes new characters and a new journey from Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
  • The reimagined Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple, featuring new characters, including the Seventh Sister from the Disney XD series Star Wars Rebels.
  • The “Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular,’’ a nightly fireworks show set to Star Wars-themed music that will be reimagined as Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular this summer.
  • First Order stormtrooper patrols.
  • Star Wars-inspired food and beverage offerings.

With these new entertainment elements, Walt Disney World Resort guests can enjoy even more extensions of the record-setting movie Star Wars: The Force Awakens and further immerse themselves into the Star Warsgalaxy like never before. Each entertainment element offers guests a uniquely immersive Star Warsexperience, all adding to an unforgettable day and night at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

And more Star Wars experiences are on the way with the upcoming Star Wars-themed lands planned for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in California. Guests can join the conversation online using #StarWars. Which one of these Star Wars events at Disney World are you most excited to see?

Book a Disney World vacation package with us totaling at least $2,500 by May 31, 2016 and receive a FREE Build Your Own Light Saber Experience!

Contact Siera today at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or to request your free, no obligation quote! 

Don’t Miss the 2016 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

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2016 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

The 2016 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival has expanded to cover 90 days from March 2 through May 30, 2016. From topiaries scattered throughout the park to outdoor kitchens and concerts, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this annual festival.

The 2016 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is welcoming two new Outdoor Kitchens, La Isla Fresca and Cider House.

La Isla Fresca will take guests to the Caribbean for authentic bites such as Jamaican braised beef with pigeon peas and rice; spicy jerk chicken or grouper with mango salsa and a Tres Leches cake with guava puree (the traditional meringue is replaced with whipped cream in this version). You can pair either of the savories with a Red Stripe Jamaican-style lager, or frozen Simply Tropical juice drink (with or without rum).

The Cider House offers a spin on tastes from the United Kingdom, including a field greens salad with greens harvested from The Land Pavilion, heirloom apples, Stilton cheese and dried blueberries; and a pear cider-brined shredded corned beef, braised cabbage and pears with Branston (a British food brand) dressing. The Cider House will offer four hard ciders, including a blueberry ciders made in Plant City, Fla., plus Cigar City Tampa-Style Lager.

The 11 other Outdoor Kitchens include Urban Farm Eats (new seared pork tenderloin), Pineapple Promenade , Fleur de Lys, Florida Fresh, Taste of Marrakesh, Hanami, THE SMOKEHOUSE: Barbecue and Brews (the pulled pig slider gets crispy onions on top), Primavera Kitchen, Lotus House, Bauernmarkt (German currywurst sausage is new this year) and Jardin de Fiestas.

You’ll be wowed (as always) by the colorful extravaganza put on by the Disney horticulture team – whimsical topiaries, 220 “floating gardens” in the lagoon and a new edible flower garden next to The Land Pavilion. It’s all beautiful at night, with twinkling lights shining across the gardens.

April 29-May 1 will be Florida Fresh Weekend, featuring the state’s edible bounty from Apalachicola to Zellwood.

As part of the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, you can enjoy free concerts in the park every weekend with the Garden Rocks concert series. Here’s the lineup for the 2016 Garden Rocks concert series at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival (subject to change without notice):

  • March 4-6 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”
  • March 11-13 – Starship starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”
  • March 18-20 – Little River Band “Reminiscing”
  • March 25-27 – Village People “Y.M.C.A.”
  • April 1-3 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry the VIII, I Am”
  • April 8-10 – The Guess Who “American Woman”
  • April 15-17 – NEW! Blood, Sweat & Tears featuring Bo Bice “Spinning Wheel”
  • April 22-24 – NEW! Bad Company, former lead singer BRIAN HOWE “Can’t Get Enough”
  • April 29-May 1 – NEW! Georgia Satellites “Keep Your Hands to Yourself”
  • May 6-8 – Gin Blossoms “Hey Jealousy”
  • May 13-15 – NEW! Darlene Love “Wait ‘Til My Bobby Gets Home”
  • May 20-22 – Night Ranger “Sister Christian”
  • May 27-30 (Monday) – The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”

Performances for the 2016 Garden Rocks concert series are at America Gardens Theatre at 5:30, 6:45, and 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival and included with park admission.

Are you going to the 2016 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival? It’s not too late to plan your visit! As a reminder, the 2016 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival is included with your park admission.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. 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.