Original Chewbacca Actor, Peter Mayhew, Passes Away at Age 74

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May 2, 2019

Original Chewbacca Actor, Peter Mayhew, Passes Away at Age 74. We regret to inform you that Peter Mayhew, Chewbacca from the original Star Wars trilogy has passed away.

The family of Peter Mayhew, with deep love and sadness, regrets to share the news that Peter has passed away. He left us the evening of April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home. pic.twitter.com/YZ5VLyuK0u

— Peter Mayhew Foundation (@TheWookieeRoars) May 2, 2019

His family posted today to his Twitter page @TheWookieRoars: “The family of Peter Mayhew, with deep love and sadness, regrets to share the news that Peter has passed away. He left us the evening of April 30, 2019 with his family by his side in his North Texas home.”

Fans and co-stars alike are taking to social media to share their condolences for “our Chewbacca.”

Here is a photo of the original cast of Star Wars: A New Hope. Peter towered over his co-stars but was beloved and esteemed by them all. He attended every event he could and never shied away from a Star Wars premiere, he would usually sport his lightsaber cane to help him walk the red carpets.

From the many, many fans of Star Wars here at Chip & Co. we express our deepest condolences to his family, friends and fellow fans. May the Force be with you, Peter. Say “Hi” to the Princess/General for us.

Photo Credit: Lucasfilm/Getty Images/Shutterstock

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure? I would love to help you! I am a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the Official Travel Partner of Chip & Company. Key to the World Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I specialize in Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures By Disney, or Universal Orlando Resort Vacations. I also can book your stay with Sandals or Beaches Resort, Norwegian Cruise Line, and many more fantastic Vacation Destinations. Let me help you make your dream vacation come true! You can call or text me at 904-806-3759 or email me at [email protected]. Feel free to follow me on Facebook or fill out the form below as well. My planning services are FREE with booking! Yes, really FREE!

New Lion King Dining Experience Coming to Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

By

Chip

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May 2, 2019

Starting June 30, 2019 at Jiko – The Cooking Place in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge get ready to celebrate the circle of life with a new limited-time prix fixe dining experience inspired by “The Lion King!

Jiko transports you to the heart of Africa with its vibrant spices, crackling wood-burning ovens, and a delicious blend of traditional African wines and cuisine, making it the perfect place for this special celebration. Starting on June 30th for limited time guests will be able to partake in an exclusive three-course menu crafted as a one-of-a-kind culinary celebration of Simba’s story.

The best news is as you are enjoying your dinner wildly talented musicians will join in on the fun with vibrant African melodies as well as live performances of the award-winning movie soundtrack.

According to Disney, the menu will feature dishes inspired by The Circle of Life: Nants’ Ingonyama, a story celebrating Simba’s journey through life. Each dish follows our lion prince as he grows up, highlighting each stage of his life through unique flavors and spices. You’ll start your meal off with the “I Just Can’t Wait to be King” starter – a dish featuring Young Cedar Creek clam malata, potatoes, pomegranate, and a bone marrow finish. This dish symbolizes the playfulness of Simba’s joyous childhood and his desire to one day become king.

For your entree choose from two entrées: Bone-In Ribeye with hibiscus, nettles, and fregula or Lobster Sosatie with red shrimp, squid, mussels, and fragrant rice. These dishes are inspired by the eerie elephant boneyard and Simba’s courage to persevere through trials and tribulations.

This decadent cake features caramelized orange, chocolate choux, and playful foliage.

Finally, finish off the evening with a selection of friandeses and teas to cap off your meal.

This limited-time prix fixe menu will be available during the dinner period at Jiko – The Cooking Place starting June 30 in addition to Jiko’s regular menu. Pricing is $65 per person, tax and gratuity not included, with the option to add your choice of two levels of wine pairings at an additional cost. For more information and to book reservations, call 407 WDW-DINE (407 939-3463) or visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

Disneyland Celebrates May 4th with Special Star Wars Treats

By

Katelyn G

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May 2, 2019

Disneyland Park is offering a few special eats and treats throughout Tomorrowland to celebrate May the 4th!

All of these offerings will be available ONE WEEKEND ONLY! So hope into the “fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy” if your mouth starts to water!

First, these churros can be found at the churro cart near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. You can choose between the light or dark side with a churrodusted in red or blue sugar.

Next, the Galactic Grill will have a few Star Wars-inspired dishes like the Dark Side Chicken Sandwich with fried chicken breast, coleslaw, and sweet chili sauce with Greek yogurt or fries. You can also munch on a Chili Cheese Burger or the Loaded Fleet Fries. These fries are seasoned waffle fries topped with bulgogi (Korean BBQ) shredded pork and Asian slaw.

The Galactic Grill will also have specialty non-alcoholic beverages. Try to Padawan Punch (Granny Smith Apply-flavored slush) or the Rogue Slush (watermelon-flavored slush). You can also snag a Star Wars-themed Travel Mug, Darth Vader or Captain Phasma Stein, or the ever-popular BB-8 Sipper!

Keep an eye out at the Tomorrowland Popcorn Cart for a Hoth-themed bucket too!

Last but not least, Alien Pizza Planet is offering the Outer Rim Pasta. This dish includes sausage, peppers, creamy tomato sauce, and tomato relish served with the chef’s choice of pasta.

May the 4th be with you – and with your food!

Source: Disney.

Let’s book your adventure today! Fill out the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from me – an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations from Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help from everything to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 815-953-4804, via email at [email protected], my Facebook Page, or fill out and submit the form below.

New Cinco de Mayo Cupcakes now at Sprinkles in Disney

By

Susan Wilson

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May 2, 2019

¡Olé! Two new cupcakes have arrived at Sprinkles Cupcakes at both Disney locations just in time for Cinco de Mayo. There are two options to choose from, either a classic Margarita or a Strawberry Margarita flavored cupcake. These new yummy treats are for adults only since these cupcakes are actually infused with tequila! Guests can find these festive cupcakes now at both Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District and at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs.

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A post shared by Sprinkles (@sprinklescupcakes)

The Strawberry Margarita cupcake is strawberry cake with key lime buttercream frosting infused with a Blanco Tequila. However, the Classic Margarita cupcake is a key lime flavored cake but with the same key lime and tequila infused frosting. Get one or both (no judgement here) and celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a sweet and boozy dessert combo which is a great way to kick off the holiday. Make sure to get yours soon! They are gone after the May 5Th holiday.

Photo and information from Inside the Magic found HERE.

Adventures By Disney Unveils All New Egypt Itinerary Starting In 2020

By

Kaitlyn

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May 2, 2019

Adventures By Disney Unveils All New Egypt Itinerary Starting In 2020. Did you know Disney offers more than just magical vacations with the Disney Cruise Line and the Disney Parks and Resorts?

You and your family and friends can take a magically unique vacation with Adventures by Disney! The Adventures by Disney 2020 itinerary lineup includes popular itineraries located around the globe, with more than 35 vacations on six continents currently available. Even if you have been to these location before, you haven’t truly experienced these destinations until you try the Adventures by Disney way!

Let’s look at their newest and exciting offer coming in 2020, The Ultimate Egypt Experience. Then we’ll take a look at the special offers for Adventures by Disney in 2020.

The Ultimate Egypt Experience – Transcending Time and Terrain

With Adventures by Disney, families will be immersed in the allure of both ancient and modern Egypt during a skillfully planned itinerary developed with the trusted family travel expertise of Disney. Highlights from the 10-day, nine-night Egypt vacation include:

Visits to breathtaking ancient monuments with the expert guidance of a world-class Egyptologist. These include the world-famous pyramids and Sphinx of Giza; the Valley of the Kings and Tutankhamun’s tomb; and the temples of Luxor, Kom Ombo, Horus at Edfu, Philae and Karnak.
Immersive experiences at the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum, which opens to the public in 2020. Here, guests can embark on an interactive King Tut-themed treasure hunt or peruse the museum’s state-of-the-art exhibits at their leisure.
Access to the inner wonders of the Great Pyramid of Giza during a tour of the burial chamber of Pharaoh Cheops.
Interactive cultural activities, such as a chef-led cooking class on Egyptian specialties, a Nubian folkloric show and henna tattoo experience, and a hieroglyphic writing lesson.
Picture-perfect outings in surreal settings, like a voyage on a traditional Egyptian felucca sailboat, visits to lively local markets and a private beachside Bedouin-themed dinner.
A three-night cruise along the Nile River with premium accommodations and themed entertainment, followed by a two-night stay at a luxurious beachside resort in Sharm El Sheikh, including a full day snorkeling excursion on a private boat to visit the famous coral reefs of the Red Sea.

Adventures by Disney will offer 11 Egypt departures in 2020, five of which are reserved for adult travelers. The adult-only itinerary features an exclusive VIP tour of the conservation rooms at the Grand Egyptian Museum, where millennia-old artifacts lie uncovered and unrestored — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Adventures by Disney guests.

New Experiences Offer Sophisticated Fun for Adults

As part of the Adventures by Disney expansion of adult-exclusive departures, new programming will be added to select itineraries in 2020 to further tailor the experience for adults. These vacations offer the all-inclusive, hassle-free fun of an Adventures by Disney trip for travelers seeking sophistication, variety and adventure.

New adult-exclusive programming includes the behind-the-scenes museum tour in Egypt; a ceviche cooking class and artisan beer tasting in Costa Rica; a culinary walking tour of Athens’ central market in Greece; a behind-the-scenes experience at a Sichuan “face-changing” opera in China; a premium five-course meal with cocktail pairings in Australia; mango-carving and coffee-tasting activities in Laos; and a private nighttime excursion in search of the Northern Lights in Iceland, among others.

Returning Adventures to the Old West, Far East and Beyond

Some of the current itineraries with Adventures by Disney include Japan, South Africa, Peru and Scotland, as well as some of North America’s most iconic sites including Alaska, New York City, and Arizona and Utah. These purposefully designed, hassle-free vacation experiences provide unique opportunities for families to discover the world together, along with the expert services of two Disney-trained Adventure Guides.

Adventures by Disney is always adding new activities for guests to experience and enjoy. During the Montana and Yellowstone National Park vacation — which transports guests to the Old West to witness spectacular natural wonders, go glamping under the stars and live large at a rustic dude ranch — new experiences in 2020 include a visit to the Norris Geyser Basin and one-night stay in beautiful Bozeman, Montana.

Recently announced was Adventures by Disney’s most extensive season of European river cruises ever for 2020, including a brand-new vacation in southern France along the Rhone River. The record-breaking 27 departures also include itineraries on the Danube, Rhine and Seine rivers. Sailing with AmaWaterways, a premier luxury river cruise line, these all-inclusive vacations allow guests to explore the heart of Europe in a way that’s active, immersive and worry-free. River cruise adventures for 2020 are currently available for booking.

Are you interested in booking a magical vacation with Adventures By Disney? Fill out the form below to get more information and work with a Travel Agent from Key to the World Travel to make your dream vacation with Adventures by Disney come true!

Photo Credit: Adventures By Disney

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure? I would love to help you! I am a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the Official Travel Partner of Chip & Company. Key to the World Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I specialize in Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures By Disney, or Universal Orlando Resort Vacations. I also can book your stay with Sandals or Beaches Resort, Norwegian Cruise Line, and many more fantastic Vacation Destinations. Let me help you make your dream vacation come true! You can call or text me at 904-806-3759 or email me at [email protected]. Feel free to follow me on Facebook or fill out the form below as well. My planning services are FREE with booking! Yes, really FREE!

Disney Game Deals and Offers for Star Wars Day

By

Katelyn G

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May 2, 2019

May the 4th Be With You! Disney has a few awesome deals and offers on games and Star Wars merchandise to celebrate Star Wars Day this Saturday.

Now through May 31st, players can add Darth Maul and Emperor Palpatine to their collection in LINE: Disney Tsum Tsum. The game will also feature a new Star Wars Select Box including all Star Wars Tsum Tsum ever and the hard-to-find Jedi Luke from May 4th-6th.

Now through May 6th, the Kylo Ren Villain event will return to Disney Emoji Blitz. You have the chance to earn the Kylo Ren emoji on May 1st-3rd. The game will also feature a special Star Wars emoji giveaway on May 4th.

On May 4th, a special message debuts with one of the following Amazon Alexa prompts – “Alexa, good morning”, “Alexa May the 4th be with you”. Or “Alexa, Happy Star Wars Day”.

Also on May 4th, fans can purchase the Star Wars: Jedi Challenge starter kit for only $49.

There will be PC, mobile and console deals on Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, Star Wars: Commander, Star Wars Pinball, Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic, LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Sage, new games on EA’s Origin Access, and more!

Lastly, there will be a limited edition Star Wars Day “May the 4th Be With You” pin at the Disney Store and ShopDisney. Guests who make a purchase at a local Disney store on May 4th will receive a Star Wars: Phantom Menace Lithograph for free!

Source: Disney.

Let’s book your adventure today! Fill out the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from me – an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations from Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help from everything to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 815-953-4804, via email at [email protected], my Facebook Page, or fill out and submit the form below.

Watch Mark Ruffalo Discover Fellow ‘Avengers: Endgame’ Star, Brie Larson, Was Also In “13 Going On 30”

By

Kaitlyn

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May 2, 2019

Watch Mark Ruffalo Discover Fellow Avengers: Endgame Star, Brie Larson, Was Also In “13 Going On 30”.

At the world premiere of Avengers: Endgame, Entertainment Tonight got to speak with Mark Ruffalo and his wife and surprised them with the news that Mark had previously worked with one of his new co-stars, Brie Larson!

To see his hilarious reaction to the news, watch this video from Entertainment Tonight’s twitter.

Fun fact #1: Brie Larson was in ‘13 Going on 30’ with Mark Ruffalo

Fun fact #2: He was just as shook as we were! 😭 #AvengersEndgame pic.twitter.com/nMXs26vOJp
— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) April 23, 2019

That’s right folks! Brie Larson played one of the mean girls from 13 Going On 30. Larson is said to credit the director, Gary Winick, for helping her discover her passion for the industry and inspiring her to become a director herself.

Ruffalo reacted with, “Ha ha ha ha, She was a mean… SHE WAS A MEAN GIRL! Oh my god.. That’s AMAZING!” Due to the scenes they were in, Ruffalo and Larson didn’t get to meet during filming for 13 Going On 30.

Ruffalo was also asked in the interview about the “Dummy” script for Avengers: Endgame that the Russo Brothers gave to him so he couldn’t spoil the movie. For those who follow along, Mark sometimes has a hard time not sharing too much about the films in interviews. He even accidentally live-streamed the first 10 minutes of Thor: Ragnarok with his phone at the film’s premiere! Oopsies.

Mark and his wife also talked about their kids and who was the kids favorites out of the Marvel Superheroes, with Black Panther and Captain Marvel being the top contenders. He even shared a joke about how his kids ask if he has been fired after he gets done with filming for Marvel Studios and that they still like that he is Bruce Banner/The Hulk.

Be sure to check back here at Chip & Co. for all the latest news surrounding Marvel Studios and the cast of Avengers: Endgame.

Hollywood Studios is expanding and looking to the future

By

Susan Wilson

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May 2, 2019

Yesterday Hollywood Studios kicked off it’s 3oth year celebrations with a fun cavalcade and lot of news. There’s so many amazing things coming to this park in the near future. From the highly anticipated Galaxy’s Edge, to a brand new table service restaurant in Toy Story Land here’s all the things you can look forward to on future trips.

Galaxy’s Edge: I don’t think you can discuss the transformation of Hollywood Studios and not mention Galaxy’s Edge. Yesterday we got to see the new costumes for Galaxy’s Edge in person and they looked amazing. There seemed to be a wide variety of costumes and I’m excited to see where these will come into play. Galaxy’s Edge is set to open August 29th at Hollywood Studios.

Toy Story Land– There are going to be two fun updates coming to Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios. The First is in anticipation of the new Toy Story 4 movie and is a pop-up merchandise location. It will be opening later this month and will be located at the exit of Toy Story Mania. The second is a brand new table service restaurant called the Roundup Rodeo BBQ. This will give guests an additional location to eat while in Toy Story Land besides the quick service spot, Woody’s Lunchbox. Roundup Rodeo BBQ is going to be colorful and full of toys, and games.

World of Animation Projection Show– This new nighttime spectacular made it’s debut last night at the Chinese Theater inside Hollywood Studios. It’s a homage to 90 years of animation and features an amazing mix celebrating magic, family, adventure, and the main mouse himself. This new projection show runs before the Star Wars fireworks.

New Hollywood Studios Logo– One of the major changes announced yesterday was the unveiling of the new Hollywood Studios logo. This new logo features BB8, Woody, and Mickey. It really emphasizes the new direction of Hollywood Studios with the additions of Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land. I’m glad they still have Mickey because as Walt said,” I only hope we don’t loose sight of one thing, that it was all started by a mouse.”

Hollywood Studios is now 30 and expanding so much. Are you a fan of the changes at Hollywood Studios? Drop a comment below.

Photos and information from Disney Parks Blog found HERE.

Keep following Chip and Co. for all the latest news from Hollywood Studios and beyond. You can also follow my Walt Disney World adventures on Instagram HERE.

Mickey Push Pops Have Returned to Magic Kingdom!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 2, 2019

It’s time to celebrate! These adorable Mickey Push Pops can now be found at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe at Magic Kingdom once again!

These birthday cake flavored push pops are layered with confetti sprinkles and buttercream, wrapped up in a cute Mickey Celebration packaging.

They will also be available at Golden Oak Outpost, Columbia Harbour House, and Friar’s Nook from now until June 30th.

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Be sure to stop by one of these spots and grab one of these adorable Mickey Push Pops during your next visit!

Keep following Chip & Co. for the latest news! You can also follow me on Instagram @mrs.everydaymommy

New Addition To Animal Kingdom’s Gorilla Family

By

Melissa Welt

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May 2, 2019

Exciting news from Animal Kingdom! We are thrilled to learn there is a new member of the gorilla family that call the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail home. Its a very cute new addition since it’s a baby gorilla!

Born in the early hours of Wednesday May 01, the gorilla family welcomed a new little one into the world. A new baby is extremely exciting due to the fact gorilla’s are endangered in the wild. The whole family was able to join in the fun with enrichment created by the keepers to mimic a gender reveal. It’s a girl!!

Introducing the newest member to the family, Grace!! Isn’t she such a little cutie? Grace was born to mom Kashata and dad Gino. Both mom and baby are bonding onstage and doing very well. Grace received her name after the GRACE gorilla sanctuary. This sanctuaries mission is to protect gorillas that have otherwise been orphaned due to poaching. Disney has personally worked with this group many times so the name was truly in honor of the work that GRACE does.

If guests wish to celebrate along, there is a specialty cupcake located at Tamu Tamu Refreshments, photo opportunities, as well as the chance you may get to see Grace with the rest of the family!

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Designated Smoking Areas Revealed For Walt Disney World Parks

By

Kaitlyn

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May 2, 2019

New Designated Smoking Areas Revealed For Walt Disney World Parks. The new areas are now shown on the new Disney Parks Maps and via the My Disney Experience App.

In a relatively recent announcement, Walt Disney World Resort announced a few new Disney Parks rules that came into effect as of yesterday, May 1, 2019. These rules included size limits on strollers, no loose ice or loose ice bags, and the most surprising change, a smoking ban inside the Disney Parks. The ban prohibits use of cigarettes, cigars, e-cigerettes, vape pens, and the like, inside the theme parks.

For those who are concerned, there will still be designated smoking areas located outside the theme park. You will have to leave the parks in order to use these designated smoking areas and then re-enter the park once you are finished.

Let’s take a look at the newly designed Disney Parks Maps from the Walt Disney World Resort.

The new location at Disney’s Magic Kingdom is located near the front entrance, towards the middle of the Bus Loop and water front of Bay Lake. You can find the new smoking decal just to right of the bottom-middle of the photo.

At Epcot you can find the new smoking area outside the main entrance, on the sidewalk between the “Amaze” Parking Lot and the bathrooms located on the left hand side of the park entrance. In the photo you can see the smoking decal towards the middle top-right.

You can find the new smoking area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios outside the main entrance towards the boat dock on the Disney Channel. You can see the new smoking decal on the upper right hand side of the photo above.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has the closest designated smoking area in relation to the main entrance of the park. Just to the left hand side of the security check point and just outside of the Rainforest Cafe Entrance is the new smoking area. Just below the middle of the photo, you can see the new decal.

We hope you find this information useful for those who will need to utilize these locations. Though this may upset a few folks or feel inconvenient as a guest, please be sure to follow the new rules as they are being strictly enforced and breaking these rules could result in guest removal from the parks.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks/Walt Disney World Resort

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure? I would love to help you! I am a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the Official Travel Partner of Chip & Company. Key to the World Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I specialize in Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures By Disney, or Universal Orlando Resort Vacations. I also can book your stay with Sandals or Beaches Resort, Norwegian Cruise Line, and many more fantastic Vacation Destinations. I can help you make your dream vacation come true! You can call or text me at 904-806-3759 or email me at [email protected]. Feel free to follow me on Facebook or fill out the form below as well. My planning services are FREE with booking! Yes, really FREE!

New Signature Celebration Package at Cinderella’s Royal Table

By

Katelyn G

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May 2, 2019

Disney has just introduced a new package at the Magic Kingdom that is fit for royalty! The new Signature Celebration Package at Cinderella’s Royal Table is available starting today!

As part of the package, you will enjoy a delicious dinner at Cinderella’s Royal Table. After dinner, you will be able to take advantage of reserved fireworks viewing of “Happily Ever After” in the West Plaza Garden (exclusive to guests of this package). Then you will join in on the After Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace. And on top of all that, you will experience unique and exclusive extras that make this evening even more magical!

Cinderella and Prince Charming will personally welcome you when you arrive at Cinderella’s Castle. You will start your royal evening off with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or specialty beverage. While you dine at Cinderella’s Royal Table, Cinderella’s Princess Friends will come to your table to meet you and take photos.

After dinner is done, you will be gifted a beautiful box of Cinderella-inspired confections to commemorate your special night.

This sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, special occasion, or any other magical day!

Reservations are limited for the Signature Celebration Package at Cinderella’s Royal Table. This experience costs $199 plus tax and gratuity for adults and $169 plus tax and gratuity for children.

Source: Disney.

Let’s book your adventure today! Fill out the form below to receive a free no obligation quote from me – an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations from Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. As an agent with Key to the World Travel, I can help from everything to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 815-953-4804, via email at [email protected], my Facebook Page, or fill out and submit the form below.