Disney Cruise Line wants to use Fort Lauderdale as another year-round port

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May 8, 2021

Disney Cruise Line is looking to use another Florida port as a year-round port. Disney wants to bring its magical ships to Fort Lauderdale starting next year.

The request has been made with Port Everglades. Broward County now needs to approve the deal.

Castaway Cay — Photo Credit: Disney Cruise Line

Currently, Disney only has one year-round port: Port Canaveral. Disney Cruise Line is headquartered at Port Canaveral. There is no word yet which ship would call Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale home or what destinations it would sail to. Typically, Disney’s ships departing from Florida stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Disney ships have only ever docked at Port Everglades when storms block their regular ports. According to a letter the company sent to Port Everglades, the Disney ship that would sail from Fort Lauderdale could carry around 3500 passengers.

Disney Cruise Line wants to use Fort Lauderdale as another year-round port

Chief executive and port director at Port Everglades, Jonathan Daniels, said they are looking forward to the opportunity of having Disney cruise ships dock at the port.

“Adding Disney Cruise Line to the Port Everglades fleet, along with the Royal Caribbean Group and Carnival Corporation, would diversify our portfolio and create a little more magic for our guests and the community,” Daniels said.

The deal would be very beneficial to Broward County. It would create jobs and would generate more tourist, state and local tax dollars in South Florida. It will be taken up at the county commission meeting on May 18.

Source

A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King reopening details

By

Sara

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May 8, 2021

A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King reopening details

A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King at Disney’s Animal Kingdom was set to debut on May 15, but guests at the park yesterday were pleasantly surprised to see the show return early! Presented in a modified format to be mindful of the current environment, the show features music and characters from the classic Disney film “The Lion King.”

Outside the theater, the queue is marked for social distancing. All members of your party must be present when you enter the queue and if you want to leave the queue, you need to let a cast member know.

The theater that houses Festival of the Lion King now seats 400 instead of the previous 1200 due to social distancing measures. The bleachers that made up the first two rows of seating have been removed. Guests are also separated on the bleachers by social distancing markers.

The show is just as spectacular as before, however there are some minor changes. Audience participation is no longer a part of the show due to health and safety requirements.

The monkey acrobats are also missing from the show. Instead, some new reptile characters have been integrated into the show.

The aerial bird scene during “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” has also been removed due to social distancing restrictions. The characters still perform the number but it’s now more of a delicate ballet.

The musical numbers are still amazing, the animal floats are stunning, and the fire dancer is absolutely fantastic!

You can find show times on Disney World’s website. The show will take place at 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 5 pm and 6 pm.

How excited are you for The Festival of the Lion King to return?

New Fantasmic Banners Up in Hollywood Studios

By

Allison Luna

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May 8, 2021

New Fantasmic signs have been spotted in Hollywood Studios! One of Walt Disney World’s beloved nighttime spectaculars, the show features Mickey Mouse himself, battling Disney Villains. It’s a fantastic display of Disney’s pyrotechnic capabilities and love of special effects. Unfortunately, it’s been a long time since anyone has enjoyed this particular experience. It’s been unavailable since Walt Disney World’s closure last year and no hints have been given as to when it will rejoin the lineup.

New Fantasmic Banners Up in Hollywood Studios

The new banners could be an indication that Disney is looking to bring back more live entertainment. It should also be noted that this could just be part of the ongoing effort to revitalize Walt Disney World in time for the 50th Anniversary Celebration. Many rides and experiences have been refurbished lately to make sure everything is new and fresh when festivities kick off in October. At this time we can see the amphitheater’s lagoon is still drained, so it’s unlikely to be utilized soon.

Aerial view of the drained Fantasmic pool at Disney's Hollywood Studios. pic.twitter.com/xZ2R61hQFP
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) April 24, 2021

Walt Disney World attractions have by and large gone through a health and safety makeover to accommodate CDC guidelines. Queues have social distancing markers, vehicles often have plexiglass installed, hand sanitizing stations have been installed at the ride exits, etc. Certainly, plans are already being put in place to prioritize the safety of guests when restarting nighttime shows.

What do you think of the new banners? Do you think this could mean a return to nighttime shows soon?

Aerial photo courtesy of bioreconstruct

Win a Trip to Walt Disney World with Freeform’s ‘Cruel Summer’ 90’s Sweepstakes

By

Kaitlyn

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May 8, 2021

Win a Trip to Walt Disney World with Freeform’s ‘Cruel Summer’ 90’s Sweepstakes. Get ready to spend your summer at the Walt Disney World Resort. Freeform has announced new sweepstakes in partnership with their new crime thriller, Cruel Summer!

“Cruel Summer depicts the long-term effects of a kidnapping in the fictional town of Skylin, Texas, focusing on three days over the course of three years in 1993, 1994, and 1995. It is about two young women: Kate Wallis is a beloved popular girl who one day disappears without a trace at the hands of Martin Harris; and Jeanette Turner is an awkward outcast who is accused in the case of Kate’s disappearance by not reporting it from the start, which results in her becoming the most despised person in America. Each episode follows a different character as the story of the aftermath of Martin’s death and Kate’s rescue unfolds.“

To enter the Cruel Summer 90’s Sweepstakes, check out the instructions below:

“Enter now for your chance to win a trip to your ultimate #HappyPlace! The vacation for two includes four days/three nights at the Walt Disney World Resort, airfare, accommodations, theme park admission, and a Disney Gift Card. If you really want to throw it back and live your best ’90s life, you could even stay at Disney’s Pop Century Resort!“

Here’s how to enter:

Like the sweepstakes post on @Freeform Instagram Page
Follow the @CruelSummer, @Freeform, & @WaltDisneyWorld Instagram accounts
Comment #CruelSummerWDWSweepsEntry
Tag a Friend

“NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open only to persons, who are, as of Entry, 18 years of age and older (or age of majority in their state of primary residence, whichever is older), legal residents of, and physically located within, the 50 states of the U.S. or D.C. Entries must be received between 11:00 a.m. PT on 4/16/21 and 11:59 p.m. PT on 5/14/21. Get friend’s permission to tag. Click here for full Official Rules and entry details.“

Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for updates and all things Disney Parks!

Featured Photo Credit – Source: Disney Parks Blog / Freeform

Monica Rambeau Appearance Rumored in Marvel Studios’ ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’

By

Kaitlyn

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May 8, 2021

Monica Rambeau Appearance Rumored in Marvel Studios’ ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness‘. Though she has already been confirmed by Marvel Studios to appear in the upcoming Captain Marvel sequel, The Marvels, it seems we may get to see Teyonah Parris’ Monica Rambeau in another MCU project earlier than expected!

Reportedly, Teyonah will play the MCU newcomer in the upcoming film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness alongside WandaVision co-star Elizabeth Olsen (Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch). The Doctor Strange sequel will also star Benedict Cumberbatch (Dr. Stephen Strange) with returning cast members Benedict Wong (Wong), Rachel McAdams (Dr. Christine Palmer), and Chiwetel Ejiofor (Mordo). The cast will be joined by newcomer Xochitl Gomez who will be playing America Chavez in her Marvel Cinematic Universe debut.

It comes as no surprise that Marvel is taking strides to keep as much information secret as possible, so be sure to take any casting rumors with a grain of salt until confirmation from Marvel Studios. Regardless, the whole world is watching, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for Marvel fans in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for updates and all things Marvel!

Featured Photo Credit: Marvel Studios

Source: ComicBook

Lilo And Stitch Beach Backpack From Loungefly

By

Danielle

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May 8, 2021

Get ready for a beach day with Stitch! This Loungefly mini backpack has room for your sunscreen, sunglasses, and more! The adorable alien from Disney’s Lilo & Stitch is joined by adorable ducklings on the front and as the zipper pull.

Lilo And Stitch Beach Backpack From Loungefly

Find this cute Lilo And Stitch Beach Backpack now at Boxlunch.com!

Final Disney World sign being painted

By

Kevin Koszola

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May 8, 2021

For many, seeing the welcome to Walt Disney World sign is a happy sight for guests heading to the Orlando theme parks. In fact, Disney has recently finished painting all the welcome signs leading guests into Walt Disney World property.

You can see the newly refurbished sign on World Center Drive as you head towards Disney. The new look is quite an aesthetic and colorful design.

The refurbishment of the Disney World signs is in preparation for Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.

Be sure to take a look at these signs the next time you drive into Walt Disney World Resort!

For more information about everything coming to the Walt Disney World Resort for ‘The World’s Most Magical Celebration,’ click HERE!

Are you excited for ‘The World’s Most Magical Celebration?’ Let us know in the comments!

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

Is White Castle near Disney World worth the wait?

By

Kevin Koszola

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May 8, 2021

Is White Castle near Disney World worth the wait?

The wait is finally over for Orlando’s White Castle! We paid a visit to the new location during opening week to experience it for ourselves. Keep reading to see what we think of the new White Castle!

First, it’s no surprise to see the level of hype for Orlando’s grand opening. This White Castle restaurant is open at the O-Town West near Palm Parkway and Daryl Carter Boulevard. The new restaurant, which at 4,567 square feet is among the company’s largest. The Orlando castle marks the iconic brand’s return to Florida; in the 1960s, it operated a castle in Miami.

Also, the family-owned restaurant chain celebrates their 100th anniversary this year. So the new location is selling merchandise such as t-shirts, tumblers, and more. The coffee mugs make a nice home souvenir!

Known for its tiny square-shaped hamburgers, the menu also includes a variety of sliders like sloppy joe sliders and chicken and waffle sliders. If you need a side to go with your main entree, you can choose from a variety of options like mac ‘n cheese nibblers, chicken rings, corn dog nibblers, and of course, french fries.

We waited over two hours in line, but…it was worth it! We love the taste of these famous sliders and picked up a Crave Case for home.

The menu is quite reasonable for its price and we had a great time visiting. The staff is friendly and provided great customer service for the long line of hungry customers. The crinkle cut fries and hamburger sliders are quite delicious! The dessert menu is also great. Be sure to try this place if you have never had White Castle before!

Let us know what you think when you visit Orlando’s White Castle location!

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

Surprise Mom With A Tonga Toast Breakfast This Mother’s Day!

By

Ana Leal

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May 8, 2021

This year surprise mom with a delicious breakfast like this Tonga Toast!

This decadent dish is perfect to surprise the queen of the house this Sunday, it features banana stuffed sourdough bread, battered, deep-fried, and dusted with cinnamon sugar.

You can usually find it at Disney’s Polynesian Resort but you can make it at home by following this easy recipe:

TONGA TOAST

INGREDIENTS:

3/4 cup and 1 tbsp of sugar
4 cups of vegetable oil for frying
3 tsp of cinnamon
1 1/3 cup of whole milk
2 bananas
4 eggs
1 loaf of unsliced sourdough bread

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine 3/4 cup of sugar and 2 tsp cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed. Set aside.
Using caution, heat 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350F in a deep heavy pot over medium-high heat.
Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon and sugar in a medium bowl.
Slice sourdough loaf into four 3 inch slices. Cut a 2 inch pocket in the middle of each sourdough slice. Set aside.
Cut the bananas into quarters. Stuff 2 banana quarters into each sourdough slice.
Dip sourdough slices into the egg mixture one at a time. Making sure to soak both sides in the batter.
Fry battered slices until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes, turning as soon as they brown on one side. Remove with tongs and place on paper towels to drain.
Coat the fried toast in the cinnamon sugar mixture and enjoy!

Add some fresh fruit, juice and a hand-made card and surprise mom with a Mother’s Day tray!

Credit: Disney Parks

A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King to Opening Today at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Chip

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May 8, 2021

Reports are coming in that A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King will be opening today!

Last month we shared the news that Festival of the Lion King’ at Disney’s Animal Kingdom would be returning in May and it looks like today is the day!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jeff Vahle (@jeffvahle)

“Festival of the Lion King” will be presented in a modified format to be mindful of the current environment. There will be adjustments to the show on stage and backstage, including updates to choreography to allow for appropriate physical distancing. We’ll also adjust how the audience is seated, in line with other theater-based experiences at Walt Disney World Resort. 

A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King to Opening Today at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

As of right now there are no showtimes listed on the Disney World App but we are hearing word that Cast Members are getting things ready for a 1pm showtime.

There is no word if this is a soft opening or that it will remain open going forward.

Stay tuned as this story is developing.

Disney Bride Pins Are Perfect For Celebrating

By

Danielle

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May 8, 2021

Celebrating your big day soon? You can get the whole squad a touch of Disney flair with this new set of Disney Bride Pins! This set has a pin for the Bride, as well as three more for the rest of her squad! So call up the squad, and let’s celebrate a wedding!

Related: Disney Weddings

Disney Bride Pins Are Perfect For Celebrating

The pins have a rose gold toned metal, set with white enamel, and iridescent glitter. The Bride’s pin is a beautiful Minnie ears headband, complete with a veil that says, Bride. The other pins are Minnie icons, with “Bride Squad” in rose gold. All of the “i”s on the pins are also topped with little hearts!

I love that they all say Bride Squad too. Because if you have the Maid of Honor, a bridesmaid, and the flower girl hanging out for a tea party, you won’t have to go searching for those specific pins! Trust me, I have been there in planning bridal outings and celebrations. There is also that one title you can’t find!

The assortment includes a set of 4 pins, and they can be found at the Emporium in Magic Kingdom for $24.99!

Do you know someone celebrating that would love this set of Disney Bride Pins?

Special thanks to Wright Touch of Magic for this enchanting find!

Maya Rudolph Confirms She Will Be A Villain in Disney’s ‘Disenchanted’

By

Kaitlyn

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May 8, 2021

Maya Rudolph Confirms She Will Be A Villain in Disney’s ‘Disenchanted‘. Disney fans are excited to hear more about the upcoming Enchanted sequel, Disenchanted and now we know who will be playing a villain in the new title! After Queen Narissa’s defeat in the first film, the role of villain had to be filled and Director Adam Shankman knew the perfect actress for the role: Maya Rudolph.

Maya herself confirmed that she will be playing “the bad guy” in Disney’s Disenchanted in a recent interview with Variety. “If this had been 15 years ago and someone asked if I wanted to be the bad guy, I might’ve been like, ‘geez, I don’t know,‘” she shared with Variety, “But I’ve come to learn in my many years that the most fun thing to get to do is when you get to play The Most.”

Maya also spoke about director Adam Shankman approached her about the part, and that she appreciated his vision for her in the role. “It’s nice to be in a place work-wise where I feel like a lot of what I’ve done can speak for itself,” she added, “so I don’t have to explain who I am or what I do.”

According to The DisInsider, a synopsis for the film reads: “The film will see Giselle, Robert, and Morgan moving to a new house in the suburbs, overseen by Malvina Monroe, the main villain of the film. After problems begin to arise, Giselle makes a wish to transform their lives into a perfect fairytale. However, the spell backfires dramatically and puts Giselle in a rush against the clock to save both her family and her Kingdom of Andalasia before the clock strikes midnight.”

Disenchanted is currently slotted to premiere exclusively on Disney+ at a to-be-determined date and will begin filming this spring in Ireland. The film will star Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden, and Idina Menzel in their respective roles as Giselle, Robert, Prince Edward, and Nancy Tremaine, along with new cast members Maya Rudolph, Yvette Nicole Brown, and Jayma Mays in unspecified roles.

Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for updates and all things Disney!

Featured Photo Credit: Sony Pictures

Source: Variety