Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom Closing for Refurbishment in January 2023

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December 13, 2022

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom Closing for Refurbishment in January 2023

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom will be closing in January for a brief refurbishment. The attraction will be closed from January 9 through January 13, 2023.

Walt Disney World refurbishments typically take place in January as there are fewer crowds and the weather is more temperate.

The Disney World website describes the attraction as:

“The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness
Legend has it that soon after gold was first discovered here in the 1850s, eerie things began to happen. Trains would take off and race through tunnels—by themselves.

After you arrive at the legendary Big Thunder Mining Company, descend into an abandoned mine shaft and board your train. As you enter the cursed cavern, the engine speeds up along the rickety track. Dodge exploding dynamite and falling boulders as you swoop around turns, drop into canyons and dart through the mysterious ghost town of Tumbleweed.

Your rip-roaring adventure proves that some legends are true. You’re sure to have a real blast!”

Will this closure impact your next Disney World trip?

If you’d like to visit Walt Disney World, contact me today! I am the preferred travel partner with Chip & Co and my services are complimentary. I would love to help you plan a magical vacation!

First Look: Paige O’Hara, Richard White, and Alan Menken’s Cameos in Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration

By

Kevin Koszola

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December 13, 2022

First Look: Paige O’Hara, Richard White, and Alan Menken’s Cameos in Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration

Later this week, ABC will broadcast the animated and live-action blended special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration.

Presented by The Wonderful World of Disney, the two-hour reimagining of the beloved story Beauty and the Beast was taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air Thursday, December 15, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and will be available stream on Disney+ Friday.

O’Hara and White’s cameos should delight fans of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 1991 animated feature film Beauty and the Beast, as they voiced Belle and Gaston, respectively. In Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration, O’Hara will play a librarian, while White will play a baker. The two stars will appear in the opening number, “Belle.” Keep an eye out for some additional Easter eggs, like the sign for Woolverton’s Books (above), which is named after Linda Woolverton—who wrote the screenplay for the classic film.

Not only that, but Disney Legend Alan Menken, composer of the original animated film, will also makes a fun cameo in “Belle.” Look for him playing piano on the song!

Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration has no shortage of superstars. As previously announced, five-time Grammy^®– and Academy Award^®-winning singer-songwriter H.E.R. will play Belle, Josh Groban will play the Beast, Joshua Henry will play Gaston, Martin Short will play Lumière, David Alan Grier will play Cogsworth, Shania Twain will play Mrs. Potts, Leo Abelo Perry will play Chip, Rizwan Manji will play LeFou, and Jon Jon Briones will play Maurice, while the imitable Rita Moreno will serve as the narrator.

Come back here on Chip & Co. for the latest theme park and entertainment news updates!

Photo Credit: D23

Avatar: The Way of Water Tree of Life Awakenings Debut in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Kevin Koszola

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December 13, 2022

Avatar: The Way of Water Tree of Life Awakenings Debut in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

We are a few days away from the 20th Century Studios’ “Avatar: The Way of Water,” theatrical debut on Friday, Dec. 16th. To celebrate, Disney World is now showing an all-new Avatar: The Way of Water Tree of Life Awakenings Show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

For a limited time beginning Dec. 12, the Tree of Life will awaken in the evenings with an all-new experience inspired by Pandora – The World of Avatar and the film, “Avatar: The Way of Water.” Produced by Lightstorm Entertainment in collaboration with Disney Live Entertainment, this new story sequence illuminates the park’s iconic Tree of Life with the magic of nature.

You can take a look at clips of the new Tree of Life sequence in our Instagram Reel.

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If you have enjoyed walking through the Valley of Mo’ara and other experiences at Pandora – The World of Avatar in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, you may want to consider attending when the sun has set.

Are you going to see Avatar: Way of Water in theaters? How about this all-new Tree of Life Awakenings Show in Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, “Avatar: The Way of Water” begins to tell the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure.

Directed by James Cameron and produced by Cameron and Jon Landau, the film stars Zoe Saldana, Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, Joel David Moore, CCH Pounder, Edie Falco, Jemaine Clement and Kate Winslet.

Come back here on Chip & Co. for the latest theme park and entertainment news updates!

Dick Van Dyke Celebrates his 97th Birthday TODAY

By

Kevin Koszola

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December 13, 2022

Dick Van Dyke Celebrates his 97th Birthday TODAY

Happy Birthday, Dick Van Dyke!

Fans are flocking to Twitter to honor the beloved actor and musician.

Happy 97th Birthday to Dick Van Dyke! pic.twitter.com/SiRyhD34wM
— Classic Hollywood(GP) (@CHC_1927) December 13, 2022

On Twitter, you can see a bunch of people mentioning his sitcom work alongside movies such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Mary Poppins, and even Night at the Museum.

It’s no surprise to see Dick Van Dyke getting so much love and respect, given his career accomplishments that have spanned decades. He has won five Emmys along with a Golden Globe, Tony, and Grammy Award. Van Dyke was previously bestowed with his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was honored with the Kennedy Center Honors in 2021.

He has also continued to perform in recent years, providing voiceover work for Jim Carrey’s Showtime series Kidding in 2020 and appearing in the films Mary Poppins Returns and Buttons: A Christmas Tale in 2018. In 2017, he released the album We’re Going Caroling with Jane Lynch, showing he’s still got his musical talents as well.

Come back here on Chip & Co. for the latest theme park and entertainment news updates!

Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights coming to Shanghai Disney

By

Sara

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December 13, 2022

Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights coming to Shanghai Disney

A new dining location is coming to Shanghai Disney this winter! Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights is coming to Disneytown at the Shanghai Disney Resort. Guests dining at this new bistro can enjoy freshly baked specialty pizza, over-the-top milkshakes and rich sundaes in a variety of flavors, and whimsical desserts all in a charming, Parisian-style garden setting.

Waddle down to the beautiful restaurant, where a marquee displaying a smiling Donald Duck donning his chef outfit welcomes all. The exterior features a domed building of glass and brass highlights shaded by beautiful trees — perfect for outdoor seating during the day. An Art Nouveau-style serves as inspiration for the whimsical details adorning the glass and decorative ironwork. As night falls on the quaint café, the golden glow from inside will remind you of “The City of Light.”

Although Donald is clearly the star, you’ll find his friends Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Daisy, his nephews Huey, Dewey and Louie — even his sometimes-nemeses Chip & Dale — represented throughout the interior. Oval framed art features the iconic group of friends prominently hung over the booths and tables, in a casual and urban sophistication atmosphere.

The “wow” moment of this new dining experience can be found in the breathtaking ceiling mural. This colorful and charming overhead display shows Donald and his friends sharing a happy moment, similar to those dining alongside friends and family at Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights.

What do you think of the new restaurant featuring everyone’s favorite duck?

If you’d like to plan your next Disney vacation, contact me today! I am the preferred travel partner with Chip & Co and my services are complimentary. I would love to help you plan a magical vacation!

New Limited Edition Tiki Mug Featuring Jose Available at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

By

Sara

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December 13, 2022

New Limited Edition Tiki Mug Featuring Jose Available at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

A new limited edition tiki mug featuring Jose from Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room is now available at Disney’s Polynesian Resort! If you love tiki mugs or the Tiki Room, you won’t want to miss out on this awesome mug.

Disney Parks shared the news on Instagram:

“‘Applause! Applause!’ 🦜 A new limited time tiki, tiki, tiki, tiki, tiki mug featuring José from Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room is available starting today at #TraderSams Grog Grotto and Tiki Terrace at @WaltDisneyWorld Polynesian Village Resort. Wristband distribution for the new mug begins at 12pm ET daily, while supplies last, and will be sold with choice of either the new Manu Aloha or Blame It On The Samba (Non-Alcoholic) beverages.
🍹 Manu Aloha cocktail features Leblon Cachaça, Pineapple, Lime, Mint, and Agave
🌺 Blame It On The Samba mocktail features Ginger Beer, Pineapple, Lime, Mint, and Agave garnished with a fresh Orchid”

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Do you like to collect Disney tiki mugs? What do you think of this new Jose tiki mug?

If you’d like to visit Disney’s Polynesian Resort, contact me today! I am the preferred travel partner of Chip & Co and my services are complimentary. I would love to help you plan a magical vacation!

Disney 100 Anniversary Pandora Bracelet To Keep The Magic Close At Hand!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2022

Disney 100 Anniversary Pandora Bracelet To Keep The Magic Close At Hand!

Celebrate 100 year of wonder with this gorgeous Disney 100 anniversary Pandora bracelet! We found this bundle set of a bracelet and charm for $185 at Magic Kingdom, it is a cute gift idea for this holiday season.

The bundle set includes a silver bracelet with the Disney 100 logo in black plus a Minnie Mouse ears charm in black with silver details just like the real Minnie ears available in the Disney 100 Platinum Collection.

You can take a closer look at this gorgeous bracelet in our Instagram post:

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Get Ready To Gleam & Glow With This Tangled Glass Jar!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2022

Get Ready To Gleam & Glow With This Tangled Glass Jar!

Light up your home with this adorable Tangled glass jar created by BaxterandCoDesigns on Etsy for $28! You can order yours here. They are floating away fast so hurry up and order yours!

The jar is made of glass with a matte finish and an engraved sun from Tangled! You can add string lights (not included) or a tea candle (included) to light it up, it’s so cute and a great piece for any Tangled fan!

Magical Disney Necklaces For An Enchanting Style!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2022

Magical Disney Necklaces For An Enchanting Style!

These vintage looking Disney necklaces are a must have for any Disney fan! They are created by KristenJudkinsDesign on Etsy for $16 each and you can order yours here.

You can choose between a Disney castle or Mickey Mouse ears with “Mouseketeer” engraved on it. You can also pick the length of the chain that works best for you. It’s an adorable little piece filled with magic to treat yourself with this holiday season or a great gift idea for the Disney fan in your life.

Custom Mickey Birthstone Necklace To Gift This Holiday Season!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2022

Custom Mickey Birthstone Necklace To Gift This Holiday Season!

This holiday season treat yourself or a loved one with a Mickey birthstone necklace created by MousenetCreations on Etsy for $27. You can order yours here!

You can pick between rose gold, silver or gold and pick up to 4 stones! So is a great gift idea for moms as well by choosing the birth month of their kids.

New Fun Toy Story Pizza Planet Merchandise Collection Spotted At Epcot!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2022

New Fun Toy Story Pizza Planet Merchandise Collection Spotted At Epcot!

Ohhhh! a new Toy Story Pizza Planet merchandise collection! We spotted this fun collection that includes apparel, accesories and more at the Creations Shop in Epcot with some pieces also available online at shopDisney!

APPAREL

We found plenty of t-shirts available featuring the Toy Story aliens and Pizza Planet logo! You can choose between long sleeves, short sleeves, ring tees or muscle tees, definitely something for everyone in the family.

Stay comfy while enjoying your favorite pizza with these “Ohhh Pizza!” shorts and Pizza Planet joggers!

ACCESORIES

How fun are these Toy Story scrunchies featuring the space aliens we love! A great addition to your hairstyle.

This fun crossbody bag features a round shape to make it look like a delicious pizza with the Toy Story aliens and pepperoni slices artwork on the front.

Bring a slice of whimsy to your headwear with this reversible Pizza planet bucket hat! One side features the Toy Story aliens with pepperoni slices and on the opposite side plain red color with the Pizza Planet logo. You can get yours here.

KITCHENWARE

You will be saying ooooh! when sipping from this Pizza Planet tumbler featuring a cheesy slice of pizza with the space aliens faces! Get it for $15.99 here!

Your meals will be out of this world when you serve them with this set inspired by the interstellar fast food fueling station. This set comes with a plate and serving utensil. This set is available now at shopDisney!

This Pizza Planet plate set includes four different fun pizza-centric designs wrapped with a decorative bow that is sure to deliver smiles! Order yours here for $27.99.

Take a closer look at this collection in our Instagram post:

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Magic Kingdom is Virtually Empty Today Ahead of Holiday Crowds

By

Chip

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December 13, 2022

Magic Kingdom is Virtually Empty Today Ahead of Holiday Crowds

While visiting the Magic Kingdom today crowds were almost non-existent as Holiday Crowds are expected to start piling into the park starting later this week.

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Around 10 AM lines to get into the park were pretty much walk up as the park opened at 8 AM and most people were already inside.

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Even inside the crowds weren’t horrible, we expected more people to drop by MK and pick up their New Mickey Balloon Rainbow Popcorn Bucket.

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Over in Tomorrowland crowds were pretty light as well. How often do you see this in the middle of December?

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Checking the Disney World Wait Times the lines for most of the rides and attractions were very low. Seven Dwarf Mine Train was at 85 minutes with Peter Pan Flight at 55. Most Magic Kingdom attractions had little to no wait.

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Most of the crowds we saw were on Main Street USA but as you ventured further into the park crowds were quite comfortable.

We don’t expect these light crowds to last as we are only 13 days till Christmas. Starting this weekend through the end of the year expect HUGE Crowds and LONG Lines for your favorite rides and attractions.

Have you ever seen the Magic Kingdom virtually empty like this in the middle of December?