Lunar New Year Celebration Coming to Universal Studios Hollywood

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January 11, 2019

The Lunar New Year is coming, and Universal Studios Hollywood has just announced the return of a fan-favorite celebration. Taking place from February 2-17, the park will host a number of special ways to ring in the Year of the Pig. With unique character interactions, live performances, and fun activities, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Guests to the jubilee can try Asian dishes at Ping’s Noodle Shop and even chat with Mr. Ping himself. Po and Tigress from the hit Kung Fu Panda series will also be there. Po will be on hand to share some of his skills in the Interactive Dragon Warriors Kung Fu Training Show at Universal Plaza. Kids can look forward to learning the secrets of and practicing Kung Fu with Po himself. This won’t be the only performance worth seeing as there will also be an interactive show teaching guests the history of the Lunar New Year.

Universal’s other iconic characters are getting in on the fun as well. Special themed meet and greets will be available throughout the festival dates. Guests can hang out with the Minions in traditional Chinese attire, or a Mandarin-speaking Megatron from The Transformers. Make sure to stop by the Animation Studio Store for a special encounter with the one and only Hello Kitty.

You’ll also able to share New Years wishes on Wishing Trees placed throughout the area. Guests will be encouraged to write their hopes for the new year on pieces of paper and attach them to the trees as part of the Chinese tradition. It’s not hard to see why this festival has become a favorite with park visitors. 2019’s festivities are stacking up to be even better than in years past, and we can’t wait to check them out in person.

Photo Credit: Universal

Are you ready to get started planning your next great adventure to Universal Studios without all of the stress? Click on my photo or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote. I am a Travel Advisor with Key To The World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company. I specialize in Disney, Universal, cruises and more. My services are FREE to my clients. Contact me at 804-252-7387, via email at [email protected], on Facebook or by filling out the form below.

Review: VIP Annual Passholder Purple Potion Merchandise Event

By

Danielle

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January 11, 2019

In celebration of all things purple, Disney Parks has launched a stunning line of Purple Potion Merchandise that matches the new Purple Ears! This magical new collection made it’s debut at a special Annual Passholder event at Magic Kingdom Thursday, before officially launching on Friday.

We went and grabbed a peek at all of the gorgeous new items that are going to be setting the next trend at Disney Parks. Right off the bat, we knew where to go because there were purple balloons everywhere!

We grabbed these flyers with the full list of all the options up for grab for the event and got to see just what we had to look forward to. Lisette was lucky enough to be the 13th person in line!

Fans have been asking for more purple for a while, and boy did we get it! From a variety of Purple Potion inspired cupcakes and sweets, to Minnie Ears, and now a Spirit Jersey we can enjoy purple everything! The jersey will be available at both the Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts, and come with their corresponding logos. The jersey is a solid majestic purple color, with iridescent logos! Just like the gorgeous bow atop the purple potion ears, this Jersey also has stunning purple and blue glitter detailing.

If Spirit Jerseys aren’t your thing there is also a purple sequin Mickey tee now! Mickey sparkes with the same level of glitz the new Purple Potion Ears reflect!

The new Loungefly Purple Potion Sequin accessories were definitely a surprise! A sequined mini backpack and wallet match the new purple potion ears perfectly.

Get vacation mode ready with a purple and blue iridescent reusable water bottle.

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Ornaments with “Annual Passholder” in purple were also available at the event!

The Purple Potion Merchandise release at the Annual Passholder event was simply stunning! I’m not sure which thing is my favorite, but I totally want it all!

Legendary Stan Lee is Getting an All-Star Tribute Event.

By

Jessica Jones

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January 10, 2019

The legendary comics creator, Stan Lee, recently passed away in November. Fans all over the world mourned his passing! They are not kidding when they say this man is a legend. Which is why on January 30, 2019 Stan Lee will be getting an all-star tribute to honor him. Guests will be treated to a public appreciation in the theater’s courtyard followed by a private tribute inside.

The event, titled Excelsior! A Stan Lee Celebration, will take place at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California. Excelsior will be hosted by filmmaker and comics fan Kevin Smith’s investment company, Legion M, brand company Agents of Mayhem and Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment. POW! Was founded by Stan lee and Gill Champion in 2001. Champion described Stan Lee as a “Unique and unforgettable human being, truly adored worldwide! He loved coming to work and creating endless new ideas and stories and in spite of his genius he was a relatable and kind man that his admirers could relate to with ease.” I think fans around the world would agree with Champions statement, which is why his passing in November was so hard on everyone.

In the theater courtyard guests will be able to view an art exhibit celebrating Stan Lee’s legacy by pop-culture artist Rob Prior. Guests will also be able to view select costumes and props from Stan Lee’s cameos and creations, as well as, a musical performance and a special moment of remembrance centered around his hand and foot imprints.

Inside the theater, host Kevin Smith will host conversations with Star Wars Mark Hamill and Deadpool co-creator Rob Liefield. Also included in the conversations is Batman executive producer Michael Uslan, actor Vincent D’Onofrio, and Tom DeSanto who produced X-Men and Transformers. The event will end with video tributes and live performances of Stan Lee’s favorite music and poetry.

POW! CEO Scott D. Williams puts everyone’s thoughts into words beautifully, “We are honored for this chance for Stan’s fans and friends to come together. Despite his passing, Stan Lee’s name, work and legacy will continue to flourish and be revealed to the world. We are committed to honor Stan Lee’s extraordinary life and work.” Fans around the world appreciate that Mr. Williams!

If you are hoping for a chance to attend the event honoring Stan Lee, you better act quickly. Only a few number of tickets will be available to fans for the tribute and they went on sale yesterday. All proceeds will benefit the Hero Initiative.

Source: Hollywood Reporter

Photo Source: Disney

Ready to experience the Disney magic yourself? Well, pack your bags and get ready! As an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations, and the official travel partner for Chip and Co, I can help you begin your journey. Just click the Key to the World Travel Picture, email me at [email protected], on facebook or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote.

Guest Creates Magic for Her Favorite Childhood Cast Member

By

Sarah Johnston

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January 10, 2019

Guest Creates Magic for Her Favorite Childhood Cast Member

When we think of Walt Disney World, we think of the magic that we experience or witness. Often it comes from a Cast Member going above and beyond our expectations. This week, one Cast Member was the recipient of some special Disney magic.

As a small child, Amber Shaddock Roberts and her family would visit Walt Disney World. At the age of two, she met Snow White for the first time. For Amber, this is when the magic started. She would make it a priority to find Snow White each visit, and every time, Snow White would remember her name, all the way to age 15.

Now, as an adult, Amber continued to search for her original Snow White with each visit to Walt Disney World. For many years, she has not known whatever happened to her friend, or where to locate her. All of that changed when she met her Fairy Godmother!

Amber, who is at Walt Disney World for the 2019 Walt Disney World Marathon, visited Magic Kingdom and was able to create some magic of her own for both of them. With her photo album in hand, Amber had the chance to take new pictures with The Fairy Godmother and spend time with her looking back at their special moments over the years. For Amber, she is the reason why her trips were magical over the years.

Day in and day out, Cast Members are excited to add magic to our trips, but it’s not often that we can reciprocate that same magic back to a Cast Member. For Amber, she was able to find her happily ever after. Starting with Snow White to now her Fairy Godmother, the magic and memories will continue. As we all know, dreams really do come true at Walt Disney World.

Photo Source: Amber Shaddock Roberts

Ready to start planning your next magical getaway? Let’s get yours booked today! As a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company, I can help you with all Disney Destinations, Universal Orlando, Cruises, and more! Best of all, my services are FREE to you! For a no obligations quote, send me an email or fill out and submit the form below.

Ballast Point Restaurant is Opening in Downtown Disney!

By

Jessica Jones

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January 10, 2019

This might be the restaurant that all of you have been waiting for! Ballast Point Restaurant and Brewery will be opening soon! You read that right, restaurant AND brewery!

Located in the heart of Downtown Disney in California, this new location will be officially be opening January 16^th! Guests will be able to enjoy this 4,000 square foot restaurant that displays some amazing art on the walls. Ballast Point Restaurant and Brewery has a sleek modern industrial feeling both inside and outside. Inside there is a giant mural of a fish, small round light fixtures, and bottles displayed in a cool architectural way.

Ballast Point Restaurant will feature “locally inspired American cuisine” on their menu when open for lunch and dinner. Many items will be made with Ballast Point brews! That’s a great way to infuse the product you love into amazing cuisine! Guests can enjoy appetizers such as Wahoo beer steamed mussels or traditional bar food such as pretzel bites. For an entrée guests can pick from the Ballast Point Burger or something more adventurous such as Soyrizo and Roasted cauliflower tacos! You can also top your meal off with dessert, such as the Crème Brulee Cheesecake. There are so many fun things to try on the menu!

While guests enjoy their meal they can dine inside at the sleek modern tables or bar or they can enjoy the fresh air on the restaurants 3,000 square foot rooftop patio as the look at Downtown Disney below. The patio also has its own outdoor bar and lounge. Good thing! You would need all of that space to house the more than 50 different beers on tap! The Ballast Point Restaurant and Brewery offer exclusive limited-edition offerings. Some beers are even brewed onsite!

So hop on over to Downtown Disney to visit the Ballast Point Restaurant and Brewery, in the former Build-A-Bear workshop and RideMakerz building, to enjoy a delicious meal and exclusive beers. Once your meal is complete be sure to stop into the merchandise shop for your very own Ballast Point logo gear!

Ready to experience the Disney magic yourself? Well, pack your bags and get ready! As an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations, and the official travel partner for Chip and Co, I can help you begin your journey. Just click the Key to the World Travel Picture, email me at [email protected], on facebook or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote.

Disneyland Paris Supports Charity Event!

By

Tessa H

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January 10, 2019

Opération Pièces Jaunes is hosting its 30th edition this year from January the 9th to February 16th 2019. The launch party celebrating the 30th edition of Opération Pièces Jaunes included many surprises such as Didier Deschamps as the godfather and the French singers Amir and Vitaa.

This year, Mickey and Minnie made an extra special trip from Disneyland Paris to visit the children at Necker Hospital as part of this launch and a long-standing partnership between the destination and the Fondation Hôpitaux de Paris – Hôpitaux de France.

Opération Pièces Jaunes is a national solidarity campaign which runs every year by the Hôpitaux de Paris- Hôpitaux de France in order to raise money for the improvement of hospitals specifically for children and adolescents! Through the funds raised, the Foundation finances many projects with the aim to improve the quality of life for children and adolescents, as well as their families and carers! For example, the Foundation has donated toys for family rooms in hospitals, built homes, funded respite as well as renovated care homes!

In addition, Opération Pièces Jaunes is hosting a contest inviting children (must reside in metropolitan France or in the DROM) between the ages of 6-14 to win a trip to 2-day trip Disneyland Paris with their families!

Contestants must be:

Be creative and make an original photo of yourself with your Money Box 2019
Post your photo on the Opération Pièces Jaunes website between January 9 and February 16, 2019

20 winners will be selected by a bailiff in April 2019 and will be invited to Disneyland Paris on 14th and 15th June 2019! Good Luck to all the contestants!

New Post-Holiday Park Maps Arrive at Magic Kingdom

By

Sarah Johnston

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January 10, 2019

New Post-Holiday Park Maps Arrive at Magic Kingdom

With the Holiday season officially coming to an end, and the last of the decorations coming down, new park maps have arrived at Magic Kingdom. The always gorgeous Cinderella Castle graces the cover.

As noted on the new Times Guide, the Festival of Fantasy Parade is back to its 3 pm start time. Happily Ever After fireworks take place nightly at 8 pm. While on Main Street U.S.A., get an up-close look and the Walt Disney World train. Currently parked at the station while refurbishment is taking place, this makes for a great photo opportunity as well. Check your guide for Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire located on the Castle Forecourt Stage.

Annual refurbishments usually start happening after the Holiday Season. Currently, Peter Pan’s Flight, located in Fantasyland, is down from Early January 2019– Early February 2019. Over in Tomorrowland, the Tomorrowland Speedway will be down from Early January 2019 – Mid May 2019.

Don’t forget to download the My Disney Experience App to check current wait times and upcoming fastpasses. Also, make dining reservations and find your favorite characters and more. Daily shows and entertainment in real-time can be found in the app as well. As always, Cast Members are available around the park to help with any questions too. Don’t forget to grab your new Magic Kingdom park map on your way to a magical day!

Ready to start planning your next magical getaway? Let’s get yours booked today! As a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company, I can help you with all Disney Destinations, Universal Orlando, Cruises, and more! Best of all, my services are FREE to you! For a no obligations quote, send me an email or fill out and submit the form below.

New Refillable Popcorn Bucket Available In Magic Kingdom

By

Sara Parr

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January 10, 2019

On January 6, 2019, Walt Disney World Resort released a new refillable popcorn bucket at Magic Kingdom Park that has me ready for Spring and sunny days at the parks.

The new refillable popcorn bucket features Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, and Pluto looking ready for warmer weather. How cute are Mickey and Minnie taking a selfie?? In the background, you can see the four iconic images from each park- Cinderella’s Castle (Magic Kingdom), Tree of Life (Animal Kingdom), Spaceship Earth (Epcot), and the Tower of Terror (Hollywood Studios).

Here is a video of the new refillable popcorn bucket….make sure to have your sound up for a little dose of Magic Kingdom!

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Refillable popcorn buckets not only make great souvenirs, but they also can be a great way to save money in the parks! The initial purchase of this popcorn bucket is $10, but you are able to purchase refills for $2 during the course of your current stay at Walt Disney World Resort. Refillable popcorn buckets are not eligible for the Disney Dining Plan snack credits.

These buckets also can be recycled in many ways- sand castle tools, bath toys, Disney button holder, a container to catch my tears as I leave my favorite place on Earth…you get the idea.

Located at the Magic Kindom Popcorn Cart, this refillable popcorn bucket is available now!

Are you ready to experience Disney for yourself? Let’s book your next adventure today! As a travel planner with the official travel partner of Chip and Company, Key to the World Travel (An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner), I can help with all of your vacation needs. I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Universal Orlando and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Send me an email at [email protected] or fill out and submit the form below to receive a free no obligation quote. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!

Princess Sculpted Mugs Are A Stylish Way To Start Your Morning

By

Danielle

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January 10, 2019

If you’re looking to start your day off as fabulous as a Disney Princess, the Disney Parks have some stylish choices. These gorgeous Disney Princess Sculpted Mugs showcase icons inspired by our favorite Disney Princesses, with a stylish flair.

You’ll find Cinderella, Ariel, Rapunzel, Snow White, and Jasmine mugs available at the Disney Parks, and a few are even online at shopDisney! Each mug retails for $24.99.

Cinderella Pumpkin Coach Mug

The Cinderella’s pumpkin coach mug is at your call to carry you away to Fantasyland for a bright morning.

Rapunzel Luminaria Mug

Rapunzel’s luminaria mug will brighten your horizons at a moment’s notice.

Ariel Dinglehopper Mug

riel’s undersea garden mug with ”dinglehopper” handle and pearled accent will bring you up from the depths on a groggy morning.

Snow White Wishing Well Mug

Snow White’s Wishing Well serves echoes of Fantasyland with your morning coffee.

Jasmine Lotus Flower Mug

Jasmine’s reflecting pool with lotus flower will let you soar to new heights with your morning coffee or tea!

Which one of these whimsical Princess Sculpted Mugs would you start your morning with?

Naples and Napolini Restaurants Had a Relaunch in Downtown Disney!

By

Jessica Jones

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January 10, 2019

On Tuesday, January 8, 2019 the Naples and Napolini Restaurants had a grand re-launch of their Downtown Disney locations!! The restaurants showcased their highly-anticipated renovations designed by Shea Design.

The Naples and Napolini restaurants are a part of the Patina Restaurant Group that has a bicoastal collection of 60+ boutique restaurants. We are lucky enough to have two of these restaurants in our Downtown Disney District in California! The Patina group is well known for its unique and impeccable market-driven menus, modern décor, exemplary service, and outstanding beverage programs.

The Naples Ristorante e Bar, located near the tram boarding are in the heart of the Downtown Disney District in California, is a two-story Italian eatery fit for the whole family. Guests can choose from a menu of authentic Italian favorites like handcrafted pasta or wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. If you want pizza done right there is no better place to go than an authentic Italian eatery. The first floor is designed as a classic Italian pizzeria, so you know you will get that perfect pizza. Mwah! Guests can also enjoy a glass of wine from, their extensive list of wine selections, on the second floor featuring gorgeous views of the promenade with the sounds of their water fountain in the background. Sounds as if you could actually be in Italy!

The Sister location to Naples Ristorante is the Napolini Pizzeria. Located along the walkway of the Downtown Disney District, guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at this quick-service Italian location! Guests can also enjoy the promenade, patio, or balcony as they take in the breathtaking views or they can dine inside in the pizzeria where they can enjoy the fun environment for the whole family.

As part of the highly-anticipated renovations the Naples Ristorante e Bar now has few new design elements. Guests can now enjoy a mural of photographs by Naples Photographer, Mimmo Fontanella. The restaurant will also feature a large “infinite loop” lighting fixture, a fire-themed mosaic glass tile about a trio of new wood-burning pizza ovens, and an expanded outdoor patio with a new outside bar and fountain wall.

According to Chief executive Officer of Patina Restaurant Group, Nick Valenti, “I am delighted to welcome everyone to the new, refreshed Naples and Napolini, with a new design intended to evoke the coastline of the Bay of Naples, Capri and Positano. I originally created the Napels concept to showcase the cooking of my native Southern Italy”. Guests can now find new menu items, such as, a variety of fresh seafood and a new build-your-own pizza program.

Guests who attended the dedication ceremony were among the company of members of the restaurant’s staff and executives from Disney and Patina Restaurant Group. Guests were also joined by special guests Chef Mickey Mouse and Chef Goofy. After the dedication ceremony, media and guests were able to partake in the food and hospitality of the Naples and Napolini restaurants. Our Disneyland correspondent Eric had the pleasure of attending the special event.

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Ready to experience the Disney magic yourself? Well, pack your bags and get ready! As an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations, and the official travel partner for Chip and Co, I can help you begin your journey. Just click the Key to the World Travel Picture, email me at [email protected], on facebook or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote.

New Pixar Short Film Program “SparkShorts” Set To Debut At El Capitan Theatre

By

Kelly Kerl

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January 10, 2019

SparkShorts, a new Pixar Animation Studios film project, debuts with an exclusive run of three short films. The films are set to premiere at Hollywood’s El Capitan Theatre on January 18th. “Purl”, “Smash and Grab” and “Kitbull” will run exclusively at the theatre for one week, after which they will be released on the Disney•Pixar YouTube channel.

Pixar short film SparkShorts — “Purl” tells the story of a ball of yarn who gets a job at a hip new “start-up”.

The new SparkShorts program was created to discover new techniques and experiment with animation production. Individual artists were given the opportunity to use creative approaches on this smaller scale in hopes of creating more inventive techniques. The hope is that these new skills can be applied to full-length features in the future. Pixar vice president of development, Lindsey Collins adds, “We want to nurture our future storytellers and encourage them to share their stories with the world. Who are the future directors and producers and what crazy new ideas do they have brewing? What is the next big breakthrough in our industry?”.

The exclusive viewings will be shown immediately following a special screenings of “The Little Mermaid” at the El Captain from January 18-24th.

Following the limited theatrical run, the shorts will be released on the Disney•Pixar YouTube channel, starting with “Purl” on February 4th. “Smash and Grab” debuts on February 11th, followed by “Kitbull” on February 18th.

New Pixar Short Film Program "SparkShorts" Set To Debut At El Capitan Theatre — “Kitbull” reveals an unlikely connection that sparks between two animals: a stray kitten and a pit bull.

The three shorts will also be among the first to feature on Disney’s new streaming device, Disney+. The Walt Disney Company is set to launch the device in late 2019.

Source: Walt Disney Studios

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? Receive a free, no-obligation quote from me, a Travel Agent that specializes in Disney Travel! As an agent with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Chip and Company, I can plan everything from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, Sea World, and so much more! Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch via email at [email protected], follow along with me on Facebook, Or fill out and submit the form below.

Rock The Dots Collection Celebrates Minnie’s Style

By

Danielle

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January 10, 2019

It’s once again time to rock the dots! January 22nd is National Polka Dot Day, and what better way to celebrate than with the original Polka-dotted fashionista herself, Minnie Mouse! The new Rock The Dots Collection from the Disney Parks celebrates Minnie’s iconic style over the ages.

We’ve already seen the sequin dot ears, which turned out to also be part of this fabulous collection. Now that we’ve seen the rest of the collection we can see how fabulously they match!

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Loungefly has gotten in on the celebration too, with four new accessories inspired by the multi-colored rock the dots theme! You’ll find a blue Shopper Tote with Minnie’s winking expression and hot pink bow, as well as a matching wallet. There is also a black mini backpack, and crossbody showcasing the brightly colored polka dots, and hot pink bow.

Guests visiting Walt Disney World can unlock the magic on their vacation in perfectly polka dotted Minnie style. The Detail is the Dots MagicBand matches the fabulous array of vivid Rock the Dots apparel and accessories.

Leave it to Minnie to have us stepping out in a bold style! These Rock the Dots sneakers are not only covered in bows, and dots, but also multi colored glitter! They’re even topped off with a fluffy blue puff ball.

One of the other Rock the Dots features is the Spirit Jersey we’ve been talking about!

We can also rock the dots with the sassy long sleeve “Think Outside the Dot” poof ball sweater, and poof ball Minnie Ears headband tee!

If you’re looking for something a little fancier to show off your polka dotted style, you’ll love the new Rock the Dots Minnie Dress! Cascading polka-dots and bows cover the black dress, that has a frilly bottom for extra sass.

I’m absolutely in love with the Minnie Mouse Plush that has a matching Rock the Dots Dress! I mean seriously, how much cuter can you get?

We’re so excited to celebrate with Minnie for National Polka Dot Day on January 22nd, which whimsical and vibrant item from the new Rock The Dots Collection is your favorite?

Want more Rock the Dots style? Check out Disney Fashionista for even more Rock the Dots fun!