Disney News Round-Up: Epcot 40th Anniversary, Hocus Pocus 2 Reviewed, Cast Members Go the Extra Mile, 100-Year Old Veteran Goes to Disneyland. What a day we had, from Disney World Park Epcot celebrating its 40th Anniversary, and watching Hocus Pocus, again. We also saw an amazing video of an elderly man being treated on a Disneyland trip he will never forget. Check out everything you may have missed from yesterday’s news.
Test Track Canopy Removed for Hurricane Ian. Hurricane Ian blew through the Florida Panhandle this week, and Disney was taking no chances with it. From closing the Parks to hunkering the guests down in the Resorts, and taking major precautions inside the Parks. Like strapping down Trashcans, or wrapping up all loose objects together.
A major precaution Disney Cast Members took was to remove the giant blue tarp that makes up the roof of Test Track in Epcot. Test Tracks metal scaffolding holds up a giant roof that is over 50′ X 100′. The blue roof is not a permanent structure and is not meant to withstand hurricane-force winds.
We were over at the Epcot 40th Anniversary today and saw the scaffolding roof was not replaced yet. More than likely because Disney Cast Members were setting up for the event today, and also because Disney is still cleaning up and making things perfect for the guests. it should make its return any day now.
Cruise over to the gleaming Chevrolet Design Center to create your own virtual concept car. When you’re done, buckle up in a 6-passenger “SIM Car” and take it for an exhilarating spin on the test track.
Rev through rough terrain and obstacles along the winding circuit. Accelerate through straightaways, maneuver switchbacks through inclement weather, hug curves banked at 50-degree angles and scale hills up to 3 stories high.
Reach speeds of up to 65 miles per hour as you put your car through its paces. After each test, check the scoreboard to see how your vehicle performed!
After the Test
Make and share a commercial for your design, race your car again on a miniature virtual test or pose for a picture with your vehicle against a dramatic backdrop for a souvenir of your supercharged day.
To celebrate EPCOT’s 40th Anniversary Disney has put together a special Beacons of Magic Show for guests in attendance on Spaceship Earth.
The soundtrack included ”Listen to the Land,” “New Horizons,” the original ”Journey Into Imagination” music, and ”We Go On” from IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.
Lights shine from within Spaceship Earth’s reflective panels as stardust emerges to symbolize beacons of possibility and optimism.
After coordinating a special surprise with the elderly gentleman’s caregiver, TikTok user Isaiah Garza (@isaiahgarza) took the anonymous 100-year old veteran to Disneyland. The elderly man was moved by Garza’s kindness and shared that this trip was one of the best experiences of his life, sharing in the video: “This is one of the best days of my life. I feel like I might be dreaming or something. I thought my life was over. I will remember this day for a long time. You don’t know how much I appreciate this… you really don’t know.” Check out the viral video below:
Garza has grown his following on TikTok and thanks to sponsorships and brand collaborations has been able to bless strangers with kind gestures and help for those who find themselves homeless like Garza once was. In Gaza’s own words: “I think it was the pain I went through every day when I would sleep on concrete, shower in public restrooms for years. I just told myself I was going to use this energy and harness it for good someday. I never knew how I was going to be able to make money someday to help people, but I always told myself that energy I would harness it for good and it ended up working.”
We love seeing people experience the magic of the Disney Parks! Be sure to check back here at Chip and Company for updates and all things Disneyland!
It’s all a bunch of Hocus Pocus at the Sanderson Sisters’ cottage, where, for the first time ever, guests can run amok this Halloween season when the soul-stealing, spellbinding trio invites visitors to get into the Halloween ‘spirit’ with an overnight stay at the scene of their scheming.
Nestled in the remote woods of Salem, Massachusetts, the Sanderson Sisters’ cottage has been recreated as though it’s been frozen in time for 300 years – just in time for the siblings’ highly anticipated return in Hocus Pocus 2, streaming on Disney+ beginning Sept. 30 (rated PG, Disney+ subscription required, must be 18+ to subscribe).
“We all know that the Sanderson Sisters’ story might not have ended when we turned to dust, nor did our shenanigans,” said Kathy Najimy, who plays Mary Sanderson in the beloved films. “What better way to celebrate the season than to host guests at the trio’s historic haunt for a night they’ll remember for years to come?”
The Sanderson Sisters will host the timeworn cottage for an exclusive stay on Oct. 20 for two guests, at only $31* a night in celebration of All Hallows’ Eve. Wooden boards that groan under the weight of curious cats and cupboards filled with blood of owl and herb that’s red (and even a hair from Winifred’s head) await those who dare to explore the cottage’s dark corners. Prior to slumbering in the sisters’ humble abode, guests can:
Try their hand at enchantments enshrined in the ancient spellbook that guided the sisters in all their mischief. (Maybe just don’t expect to turn anyone into cats as a result.)
Explore the dark, rich history of Salem with visits to some of the town’s most haunted properties.
View a special screening of Hocus Pocus 2, streaming on Disney+ beginning Sept. 30.
Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Salem, by broomstick or otherwise. Those looking to book should note that this stay requires strict adherence with applicable COVID-19 rules and guidelines.
To support the next generation of the historic city, Airbnb will make a one-time donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem, which aims to ensure that success is within reach of every young person who walks through their doors.
Those looking for an especially eerie Halloween season can request to book this stay beginning Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 1 p.m. ET at airbnb.com/hocuspocus2. Be sure to check back here at Chip and Company for updates and all things Disney!
*Plus taxes and fees. This one-night stay is not a contest. The cottage is privately owned and operated.
Airbnb is closely monitoring Salem COVID-19 infection rates and government policies and will offer booking guests a refund of the booking fee ($31) and $1,000 USD Airbnb travel credit if Airbnb determines it is necessary to cancel the stay.
Disney Cast Members Help Guests Through Hurricane Ian
Hurricane Ian recently passed through Orlando, Florida, and the Walt Disney World Resort. The resort closed most of its offerings but guests with reservations remained at the resort hotels. Cast members continued to create magic for those guests while they waited for Hurricane Ian to pass.
Ahead of the storm, cast worked together to ready the theme parks and other locations across the resort – from securing outdoor areas, to packing thousands of meal kits for guests staying in the resort hotels and everything in between.
While the storm made its way across Orlando, cast members continued to be there for each other and guests, keeping spirits high around resorts with special character greetings, movie screenings and recreational activities for everyone.
Now that Disney World has officially reopened, it’s been so sweet seeing smiles inside the theme parks once again. What makes it even more special is knowing how hard teams worked to clear debris and prepare the parks so cast members could start spreading some much-needed pixie dust as quickly as possible.
To the hurricane prep & ride out cast and crew members: thank you. We often say that you’re the magic of Walt Disney World Resort, and that statement proved true once again. To our extended Disney family experiencing the effects of Hurricane Ian: we are thinking of you, standing with you and will continue supporting you as we move forward, together.
If you’d like to plan your next Disney World vacation, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
Disney+ Subscribers can now enjoy the long awaited sequel to the cult classic ‘Hocus Pocus’. Though the sequel was a fun call back filled with references and nods to the original 1993 movie, the focus of the film was scattered and some scenes felt forced for length or marketability rather than tuned in to a plot point.
The return of Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker as the Sanderson Sisters was exciting to see for fans who have grown up watching ‘Hocus Pocus’ year after year, and playing a bit more on the advancement of society and technology over the last 29 years was fun, but did slow the pace of the film after the dramatic and energetic entrance by the sister.
Our new primary characters Becca (Whitney Peak), Izzy (Belissa Escobedo), Cassie (Lilia Buckingham), Gilbert (Sam Richardson), and Mr. Traske (Tony Hale) paired well with the original crew, while also standing out with their own sub plots. Hale provided good comical relief to the story, while the girls work through the trails and tribulations of teenage friendship, and Gilbert has his loyalties questions while on a misadventure with fan-favorite call back William “Billy” Butcherson.
We would have loved to see more of the original cast return, but overall, the film was a fun adventure despite some pacing issues, and though it may not stand the test of time like the original, we did enjoy it and will be adding it to our annual Halloween movie playlist.
What did you think of the sequel? Did you enjoy the references and call backs? Did you notice any plot holes or curious additions that felt out of place? What were some of your favorite moments? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Be sure to check back here at Chip and company for updates and all things Disney+!
The line to get into the American Gardens Theater was backed up all the way to the Italy Pavilion.
While waiting in line we got the say Hey to Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products & Jeff Vahle, the President of Walt Disney World Resort!
On hand were fan-favorite Disney World Ambassadors, Mariachi Cobre & Voices of Liberty!
During the presentation, Disney showed the dedication footage from October 1st, 1982.
Afterward, the Walt Disney World Ambassadors, Voices of Liberty, and even Josh D’Amaro stood on stage for guests to snap photos. It was a very cool experience to celebrate EPCOT’s 40th Anniversary!
Top 10 Disney Podcasts we are listening to right now
There are thousands of Disney Podcasts available via online channels called “Podcast Directories”. Podcasting about Disney has become an incredible resource for Disney Fans across the world to stay connected to the latest Disney news, travel tips, dining reviews, and more. Here are the Top 10 Disney Podcasts that we are listening to right now on our devices.
Connor and Caroline offer a unique podcasting format with a Disney Adult spin. These spicy episodes offer a more mature discussion, sure to have you yelling back at the radio. It has an explicit rating for a reason, but you’re sure to love their games and banter. New episodes drop bi-weekly and are sure to have you laughing and make you feel like you’re sitting around the living room talking Disney with a group of friends.
Hosted by Mike, Pam and Rikki, the Be Our Guest Podcast helps you make the most of your next Disney trip by diving into the world of Disney planning. Currently broadcasting three days a week with trip reports, panel discussions, and listener-generated episodes, they offer loads of great Disney radio. One of the absolute best Disney podcasts out there; and a staple in the Disney Podcast Community.
Jeremy, Heather, Josh, Pete, Ric, and Chaney broadcast the self proclaim “most unambitious podcast” in the Disney community. This unique podcast will deliver a dose of Disney ambient music and park sounds as they traverse the parks in an audio-only format. Perfect for background noise for when you’re missing HOME. Walkabout the World offers a variety of locations and formats that are sure to change your perspective on podcasting. Offering both Disney World and Disneyland audio content, we love to relax with this show, close our eyes and be transported to the parks.
Disney for NPR Illinois Community Voices and for The Front Row Network. Join Craig, Brett, and Vanessa weekly as they discuss all things, Disney. Incredible interviews with Disney personalities like Idina Menzel, Jordan Fisher, and Brett Iwan amongst others. Film reviews, Disney Banter, and trip reviews offered a variety of show types that will keep you coming back for more.
Let your imagination run wild and join lifelong Disney fans and friends as they sit around the table to discuss all things Disney. Jarrett has assembled an All-Star cast that rotates to discuss Disney and play fun games. Loads of fun and variety so that you’ll always have something new to enjoy!
Hosted by Tony and John, this long-running podcast dates all the way back to 2012. Join them weekly as they break down the “neeeeews” together in a fun and light-hearted fashion. Great dynamic between hosts and a lively pace make these episodes fly by. Outstanding bonus content and interviews provide outstanding evergreen content as well. For us, Disney Parks Podcast is a must listen.
4. The Disney Nerds Podcast
Disney Podcasts
Charlotte, Ed, Lisa, Morgan, and Sam are an incredible group that love Disney. There’s nothing but fun and positivity with this group of podcasters. When they come together, they make outstanding radio. We had a chance to spend time with Sam in the parks, and he’s the real McCoy. The love of Disney runs deep here and we know you’ll feel that over the airwaves.
Hosted by Bondo, Miriam, and Mark; these guys are helping redefine the Disney Podcasting Genre. It’s a podcast that focuses first and foremost on the fun. They invite you to get your nerd on and laugh your Mickey ears off.
With guest panels, debates, games, and round table discussions, we agree that We Like Theme Parks podcast is making radio fun! Annual favorites like Villains League and ride tournaments provide carryover content that will keep you invested in the weekly episodes. Plain and simple, this is great podcasting from great people!
Featuring podcast legend and author Lou Mongello, WDW Radio has been providing the best in Disney Parks content since 2005. Lou continues to keep it fresh and exciting after 17 years on air and is always bringing the latest happenings from the WDW Company. Whether you’re new to the Disney community, or a seasoned traveler, you can always learn something new from this show and there’s a reason why Lou is still at the top of the pack after all these years.
We’d like to throw our names into the ring for consideration. After all, we are very proud of this new network. Offering five shows a week, we are covering all of the latest news from WDW Parks and Resorts around the world with several Disney Podcasts.
We also have evergreen content through our partnership with Dislife Podcast which offers travel tips and Disney parks banter too. Interviews and events coverage help round out this podcast network. It’s the positivity and magic you’ve come to expect from our website in a new audio format.Be sure to subscribe to our Network Here!
Podcasting has been around a while, but new shows are springing up every day. Let us know what podcast is being downloaded to your smart device on a weekly basis and of course happy listening!
Disney News Round-Up: Hocus Pocus 2 Comes to Disney+, Kite Tails Ends, Chapek Talks Hurricane Ian, MCO Reopens, and more… Welcome to the Walt Disney news round-up for September 30th all in one place. Check out all the news you may have missed yesterday.
Gideons Bakehouse is celebrating the Halloween Season in October with the return of a fan favorite cookie, cake slices, merchandise, and more.
Here are the details!
October is here, and it’s our birthday month! That means you can expect our most extensive offerings of the year. Prepare for never-before-seen items on weekends, fun merch, and a special event! Be sure to check here all month for more info! Let’s jump into it! Frankenstein Lives! This Cookie stitches together various Chocolates, Double Stuff Oreos, and M&M’s to resurrect one of our most popular Limited Edition Cookies of the year.
Bride of Frankenstein Returns! Designed in the same mold as Frank but featuring White Chocolate, Golden Oreos, and M&M’s! Superior in our view, but you be the judge.
Frankenstein Cake Slices! Three layers of Chocolate Cake, a ridiculous amount of Oreo Buttercream, and M&M’s! Don’t forget that upset down dripping chocolate ganache! How do we do it? Dark magic! Available EVERY DAY of October at Gideon’s in @DisneySprings and the @EastEndMkt shop.
Bride of Frankenstein Cake Slices! A treat at both locations every Saturday of October! Just like the Frankenstein slice but featuring Vanilla and Chocolate Cake with Golden Oreo Buttercream!
Black Cat Pin and T-shirt! We celebrate our feline overlords each October and have released a brand new Black Cat T-shirt and pin! The main pin is Black and Bronze, plus we have a unique Black on Black (Steve Edition) limited to only 200 pieces, available in-store only, first come, first serve! 2 per person on those! The pin is available everywhere today. The shirt is online only until Tuesday. It got Hurricane delayed. 😒
WEEKEND EXTRAS! HUGE Offerings! A reminder that we’re celebrating Happy Hispanic Heritage Month each weekend through Oct 15th, so you can still get the Chocolate Churro Cookie and Cream Cheese Quesittos! This weekend we are also extending the PB Cold Brew Cookie to compensate for losing it for a couple of days during the Hurricane! While supplies last! MENU COLLECTORS! Good? We’ll have multiple designs this month. Bad? The 1st design is Hurricane lost. We’re hoping for a Monday arrival. 🚨 There are no menus this weekend! Because you demanded it, French Toast Cold Brew remains at Gideon’s in @DisneySprings through October! 🎃
