Aerial view of Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon

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June 28, 2021

An aerial view of Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon shows an almost water-free water park. Without a doubt, Typhoon Lagoon is one of the best water parks in central Florida. Opened back in 1989, the water park is Disney’s oldest. The park contains slides, pools, and a lazy river. Also, the park has one of the largest wave pools that offers actual surfing lessons when it is open.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon was closed along with the rest of Walt Disney World Resort for the pandemic last year. It never reopened. Even though Disney’s other water park, Blizzard Beach, opened back in March of 2021. Rumor has been going around that the Lagoon might reopen this summer. Now we can see that it is undergoing some construction.

Keel Haul Falls and Mayday Falls have a large scaffold over the track. Along with this, Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool is almost completely empty. We now have no idea when this will be close to reopening. It does not appear to be major construction. More of a way for workers to get up top from the backstage area, without having to walk all the way around.

As a reminder, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park remains closed at this time. However, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park is now open!

Like the other areas of Walt Disney World Resort, we will welcome back Guests and Cast Members to Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park in a responsible way, with a plan, focused on health and well-being. View additional details.

We would like to thank @bioreconstruct for the images.

Aerial look at attractions in the dense jungle of Typhoon Lagoon. pic.twitter.com/IsR5BvREl8
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) June 27, 2021

Aerial look at a many-month project on a hillside at Typhoon Lagoon. pic.twitter.com/LMl3CoCgvt
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) June 27, 2021

Blue netting added to Tron Coaster in the Magic Kingdom

By

Greg Gately

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June 28, 2021

Blue netting added to Tron Coaster in the Magic Kingdom. We previously announced back in the summer of 2017 TRON Lightcycle Run. The new ride has gone through shutdowns following the pandemic and also construction delays. Furthermore, we cannot tell how far along with the coaster actually is, because it is being built behind closed doors.

It should be noted that it looks like a good amount of work is happening now on the Tron Coaster front. We got some videos and photos to share with you all. Check out the video below.

Importantly, the canopy’s blue netting is almost finished being installed. Furthermore, this means that the skyline at the Magic Kingdom will forever change. I can tell you from seeing the ride in Shanghai Disneyland, this canopy will be very prevalent. Along with the blazing blue lights that will be seen quite clearly.

Prepare for digitization after entering the portal—this is your access to the energy, lights, and excitement of TRON’s high-tech universe. As you leave the real world behind, you’ll proceed to the games as a member of Team Blue, ready to compete against some of the Grid’s most menacing Programs.

This is how Tron Lightcycle Run is described from the Shanghai version. We have no opening date yet, moreover, whatever opening date was originally slated for has been pushed back due to the pandemic.

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Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along in EPCOT Seating Every Row

By

Allison Luna

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June 27, 2021

Beauty and the Beast topiary in EPCOT’s France Pavilion

The Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along in EPCOT has to be one of the best recent additions to the park. It’s a crowd-pleaser, appropriate for all heights and ages, free of summer heat, and it’s based on a Disney classic that fits perfectly in the France Pavilion.

Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along in EPCOT Seating Every Row

As EPCOT reopened to the public, the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along experience was subject to some changes. Guests were seated at a distance from one another and masks were to be worn for the duration of the performance (and at all times indoors and outdoors, until recently). As the CDC has released new information, the guidelines have steadily been relaxed and various attractions have felt the impact of those decisions around Walt Disney World. Some of the most recent changes include the removal of mask requirements for any guest who is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This includes both outdoor and indoor areas. As for the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, now you can sing without a mask and sit without social distancing.

Guests are now ushered into the room as a group and can sit in the row of their choosing. Previously, a Cast Member would enforce social distancing by only seating in every other row. Maybe you enjoyed the distance, and as someone with small children, I don’t blame you for wanting to be further away from us. But the truth remains that Walt Disney World is returning to its former glory and we can all be glad about that!

McDonald’s is Now Selling Melted Cheese Cup For Dipping

By

Kevin Koszola

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June 27, 2021

McDonald's is Now Selling Melted Cheese Cup For Dipping

Say cheese! There’s an extra cheesy offering for the McDonald’s menu in Brazil. The cheddar cheese cup is a special menu item that customers can order to use as a dipping sauce. Given the immense popularity of McDonald’s and cheese sauce, it is quite a fun addition to their menu.

It’s only available for Brazil at this point in time, but given the growing popularity on the Internet, it seems possible other countries might soon get the cheese cup.

You can see what the Instagram commercial looks like for McDonald’s in Brazil in the link below.

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A post shared by Méqui (@mcdonalds_br)

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

New Mask Signage now on display at Walt Disney World Theme Parks

By

Sara

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June 27, 2021

New Mask Signage now on display at Walt Disney World Theme Parks

Walt Disney World has made multiple changes to its face mask policies over the last couple of months. Now, new face mask signs are on display at the theme parks.

These new signs state that masks are optional for fully vaccinated guests but non-vaccinated guests are required to wear masks when indoors. Disney World will not require proof of vaccination, however. Guests will be expected to follow the honor system.

Fully vaccinated cast members can also go maskless while outdoors and indoors now.

More changes are happening around the Walt Disney World Resort bringing operations back to a more normal experience for guests.

Mickey Onigiri Sandwich Recipe From Tokyo Disneyland!

By

Ana Leal

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June 27, 2021

Are you a fan of rice balls and Korean BBQ? Then you will love this Mickey Onigiri Sandwich!

This dish can be found at Tokyo Disneyland and is delicious plus super adorable! Just look at that Mickey shape, that makes everything better for sure.

Want to make this at home? Just follow this recipe and enjoy a tasty Onigiri with your family!

MICKEY ONIGIRI SANDWICH

INGREDIENTS:

Onigiri (Rice Ball)

2 tbsp of dashi soup stock powder
3 tbsp of soy sauce
2 1/2 tsp of mirin
3/4 tsp of sesame oil
5 cups of cooked white rice, room temperature

Korean BBQ Beef

1/2 lb of short rib sliced, approximately 5 ribs
1 1/2 tbsp of soy sauce
2 tbsp of mirin
1 tbsp of sake
1 tbsp of sugar
1/2 tsp of fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp of cornstarch
1 1/2 tsp of water
1 tbsp of sesame

Sautéed Greens

2 cups of komatsuna of bok choy
1 tbsp of sesame oil
Coarse salt
White pepper
1/2 tsp of white sesame seeds

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400F. Combine dashi powder, soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Place rice in a large mixing bowl and pour seasonings on top. Stir to combine.
Place 12 (4″) Mickey Mouse molds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Fill each mold 1/3 of the way up with rice, and bake, 5 minutes. Set aside.
Thinly slice beef short rib meat, removing large pieces of fat; set aside.
Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 3 minutes, until simmering.
Stir cornstarch and water in a small bowl and add to simmering liquid. Cook over medium-low heat for 1 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat sesame oil until hot, 3 minutes. Sear short rib slices until browned, 1 minute per side, then add sauce. Cook until bubbly, 2 minutes.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat sesame oil until hot, 3 minutes. Cook greens until warm but still crisp, 3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and sesame seeds.
Carefully remove rice balls from Mickey Mouse molds. Place 6 rice balls on a platter. Evenly divide beef and greens among rice balls. Top with remaining rice balls.

Enjoy!

Credit: Disney/Delish

New Marvel Slyvie Loki Funko Pop coming

By

Kevin Koszola

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June 27, 2021

If you are enjoying the Loki series on Disney+, then you might want to look at this new Funko Pop! Funko is releasing a Pop of the Loki variant, Slyvie, later this summer. Slyvie is already a breakout character of the show with her enchanting magic.

In the past week, we learned that this “Lady Loki” variant is named Sylvie Laufeydottir. We know she wants to destroy the Time Variance Authority, but we don’t know her full story yet since we are only halfway through the Loki series. It’s quite a thrill ride so far for viewers who want to learn more about this mysterious agency in the MCU. There’s only three episodes left, but Funko collectors will be able to scoop up this new Slyvie Pop in a few weeks!

Also, there is a green-eyed variant of Slyvie coming exclusively to Walmart. So, you will need to look there if you want that version.

We’re sure there will be a few more Funko announcements for Loki items as we approach the final episode. We will let our fans know of any additional Loki Pops!

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

John Stamos is raising his son to LOVE Disney

By

Kevin Koszola

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June 27, 2021

John Stamos is raising his son to LOVE Disney

Like Father, Like Son! Actor John Stamos has been a proud Disney superfan for years. But now he’s raising his son to follow in his footsteps for Disney fandom!

John Stamos often visits both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. The actor is known for collecting items from the Disney theme parks and has an impressive Disney display at home! He also recently filmed the Big Shot series that is currently on Disney+ streaming service. In addition, he’s been taking his family to Disney Parks multiple times since the birth of his son, Billy. Both John and his wife, Caitlin, say they can see the joy Disney brings to Billy now that he’s a toddler.

“We took him to the Disney parks a bunch when he was younger. I think he went there when he wasn’t even a year old yet because I was working down there and we all went.”

“He’s definitely a Disney kid because he loves the movies. His first movie he loved that he watched was Coco. He watched it before he could barely talk. He was like ‘Coco, Coco.’ He loves Coco, he loves Moana. He loves those animated films.”

-John Stamos

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

Credit: People Magazine

Single Rider Line is now open for Smugglers Run in Hollywood Studios

By

Greg Gately

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June 27, 2021

Single Rider Line is now open for Smugglers Run in Hollywood Studios. We were at the park yesterday and got the chance to enjoy Batuu. Furthermore, we got to ride one of our favorite rides, which is Smugglers Run. Importantly, we got some images to share with you all showing that Disney has reopened the single rider lines at the Millennium Falcon.

Disney had removed single rider lines when they reopened after shutting down for the pandemic last year. In a sign of the times, we see more and more things reopening and removing social distancing. Previously we have reported on the floor markers being removed, followed by the plexiglass dividers being removed. Now single rider lines across Disney World are reopening.

Take Control of the Fastest Ship in the Galaxy

Ride in the famous cockpit of the Millennium Falcon on a daring flight—and whether you’re a pilot, engineer or gunner, every role is crucial.

The engines rumble as the Millennium Falcon blasts off, pushing you and your crew back into your seats when you jump into hyperspace towards adventure. Along the way you’ll face danger at every turn.

Will your mission succeed or fail? It’s up to you—find out if you have what it takes to outmaneuver the odds aboard the Millennium Falcon.

Get ready to punch it!

Never flown a starship before? Hondo Ohnaka is looking for discreet flight crews to deliver a backlog of hard-to-find items to particular clientele—no experience necessary!

Are you a single rider? Do you enjoy solo trips or are you with others who do not do the rides? Let us know how you enjoy the single rider queue.

Universal Superstar Parade returns to Universal Orlando

By

Susan Wilson

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June 27, 2021

Universal Superstar Parade returns to Universal Orlando — Photo by Universal Orlando

Universal Studios Florida continues to return to normal after reopening last year. The latest update is the return of their Superstar Parade. The parade has been on hold since March 2020.

The floats have been out and characters available for photos but yesterday marked the return of the full parade. The Superstar Parade features some of Universal’s favorite characters. They have Spongebob, Despicable Me, Secret Life of Pets, and more!

The parade makes a loop around the front of the park. You can check the Universal App for showtimes. It usually runs at night around 7:00 PM. Now if we can just get the Hogwarts castle show to return.

Select Flower And Garden Drinkware Now 25% Off

By

Danielle

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June 27, 2021

Select Flower And Garden Drinkware Now 25% Off

The Epcot Flower and Garden Festival is coming to a close. Which means we’re starting to see sales, like select Flower And Garden Drinkware is now 25% off!

We can stop and smell the flowers with several drinkware items that are still available. Bright and colorful mugs, tumblers, and more featuring Flower and Garden logos are still available.

If you missed out on any of the cute Spike the Bee mugs, or other beautiful blooms now is the chance to collect yours on sale, before they are gone!

It looks like select Flower and Garden apparel is also on sale too!

Will you be collecting any of the Flower and Garden Merchandise that is now on sale?

Social Distancing Markers removed for Epcot’s Rose & Crown Pub

By

Greg Gately

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June 27, 2021

Epcot’s Rose & Crown Pub has removed all Social Distancing Markers. Clearly, it is a sign of the times when we have to report on the last of the enhanced safety measures. Following a years-long 6 feet apart, and also, clear plexiglass walls, it appears that even the restaurants and bars around Epcot have been removed. They still have a few plexiglass panels up on top of the bar. We are so happy to see this happening more and more. I am sure the rest of us are also. Check out some of the Images we got while at Epcot yesterday.

We are happy to report to you about Epcot’s Rose & Crown Pub removing all social distancing markers. Rose and Crown area is one of our favorite spots in Epcot. The bar and dining room are one of our favorite spots in all of Epcot. You could call us Anglophiles, and lovers of all things British. Whether it is the view from the outside behind Rose and Crown to watch fireworks or the upcoming Harmonious. Furthermore, the Bass Ale on tap!

Social Distancing Markers removed for Epcot's Rose & Crown Pub

Take your taste buds across the pond to the liveliest of pubs! Practice your finest toast while you quench your thirst and quell your appetite with fresh pints, flavorful bites and classic British fare you won’t find elsewhere at Epcot.

It does not appear that much is left for Disney World to remove. Most places are clear of social distancing markers now.

Just in time for Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival that starts July 15th. One of our favorite events of the year. Now it looks like we can hang out at the Pub enjoying ourselves. What are you looking forward to at Epcot’s Food and Wine this year?