Kingdom Hearts Pop-up Experience Coming to Disney Springs

By

-

December 5, 2018

Kingdom Hearts Pop-up Experience Coming to Disney Springs

We are bringing the magic of Kingdom Hearts to DisneySprings at Walt Disney World Resort from December 14~January 31! The Kingdom Hearts pop-up experience will feature a playable demo, a special Keyblade exhibit, and artwork from the game! Stay tuned for more info!

SQUARE ENIX and Disney have launched KINGDOM HEARTS –THE STORY SO FAR, a definitive collection that takes players through nine chapters of the beloved KINGDOM HEARTS series. Now available on the PlayStation 4 system, the complete compilation provides fans with an encompassing experience.

Players can now relive the magical adventures of Sora, Donald Duck, Goofy and friends through memorable KINGDOM HEARTS chapters, as they protect the universe from Heartless invasions and aim to restore light to the world. The package offers unforgettable adventures through iconic Disney locations, interacting with beloved Disney and FINAL FANTASY characters along the way, following the classic tale of darkness against light.

KINGDOM HEARTS –The Story So Far– is now available at the Square Enix Online store and participating retailers for $39.99. The title has been rated E10+ (Everyone 10+).

AFI Names Top 10 Films of 2018, Black Panther and Mary Poppins Returns Named

By

Jessica Jones

-

December 5, 2018

AFI Names Top 10 Films of 2018, Black Panther and Mary Poppins Returns Named One of the Top Ten Films of the Year.

The American Film Institute, AFI, has named the top 10 honorees of the AFI Awards 2018. On the top ten list for movies of the year, Black Panther and Mary Poppins Returns are named! Joining them are Blackkklansman, Eighth Grade, The Favourite, First Reformed, Green Book, If Beale Street Could Talk, A Quiet Place, and A Star is Born.

This year marks the 19^th chapter in the American Film Institute’s almanac of the moving image. The 2018 nominees join a notable group of honorees. In order to become an honoree, the AFI looks for works of significance that contribute to the rich cultural legacy and that also define the state of the art form.

Each year AFI awards selections are made through a jury process that includes a panel of AFI Trustees, scholars, artists, and critics to determine the year’s most outstanding achievements. This year’s jury was chaired by the AFI Board of Trustees Vice Chairs Tom Pollock, Chairman of Universal Pictures, and Richard Frank, President of Walt Disney Studios and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The juries also featured acclaimed artists such as David Benioff, Joan Chen, Courtney B. Vance, and Alfre Woodard. Also included in the juries were renowned authors and scholars, film historian Leonard Maltin, film and television critics, and the AFI Board of Trustees.

This year’s honorees will gather on January 4, 2019 for a private recognition luncheon, sponsored by Audi, a supporter of AFI and its programs for 15 years, and by American Airlines, the official airline of AFI. During this event, which favorited by the entertainment community, honorees will be greeted with informal intimacy and inclusive acknowledgment of excellence. In addition, the jury will present the honorees with the rationales for their selection by providing artistic and cultural context for the selection of each honoree.

In addition to the honorees for AFI movies of the year, the American Film Institute also acknowledges the AFI TV Programs of the year. This year’s selections include: The Americans, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, Atlanta, Barry, Better Call Saul, the Kominsky Method, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Pose, Succession, and This is Us. The AFI also gave a special award to Roma.

Were you able to see all of the movies or TV programs? Did you have a favorite on the list? Or did your favorite not make the cut?

Source: American Film Institute

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.

Emma Stone set to Play Cruella De Vil in Live-Action Film

By

Jessica Jones

-

December 5, 2018

Emma Stone set to Play Cruella De Vil!!

Get excited folks! Another live-action film is coming our way! This time the feature film will be the classic story of 101 Dalmatians. Disney Addicts first saw the popular classic in 1961 as an animated classic. The animated film was then made into a live-action film in 1996 starring Glenn Close as the evil villain, Cruella De Vil. In this live-action, produced by John Hughes, De Vil was featured as the head of a fashion house. However, in this new live-action film remake Emma Stone will be playing the evil infamous villain with a more 1980’s punk vibe.

This remake was set to feature Alex Timbers, who is also a well known theater director, to direct the project. However, due to scheduling issues that is no longer the case. Timber will be busy with his two major Broadway productions, Moulin Rouge and Beetlejuice, which are set to debut next year. Instead, this major production has taken on a new director. Even though this is still in the early talks, Craig Gillespie is slated to take the director position. Craig Gillespie comes with a great background that will help make this live-action remake into a success. Gillespie is best known for his latest production of I, Tonya in 2017. This film went on to earn Margot Robbie an Oscar nomination and Allison Janney a best supporting actress Oscan Win.

So, as you can see, Disney has picked a good contender to direct this well known Disney classic, as well as the start of an awesome cast. I sure am excited to see this live-action film when it comes out! I have always loved the story of the 101 Dalmatians and let’s face it, who doesn’t know the popular song? “Cruella De Vil, Cruella De Vil. If she doesn’t scare you, No evil thing will. To see her, is to take a sudden chill. Cruella, Cruella De Vil”.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter

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.

Limited Release Walt Disney World Railroad MagicBand

By

Danielle

-

December 5, 2018

Railroad MagicBand

Celebrate the magic of the Walt Disney World railroad with a stunning new MagicBand. The new Walt Disney World Railroad MB even features Walt Disney himself as an engineer.

Walt Disney World Railroad MB

It’s always full-steam ahead with this railroad-themed MagicBand 2! Walt Disney’s Love of Trains Lives On at Walt Disney World Resort, and this MagicBand captures that spirit perfectly. The black and white photos pop against the bright red MagicBand background.

This MagicBand is also a perfect way to commemorate Walt Disney’s Birthday today too!

Would you unlock the magic of Walt Disney World with this Railroad MagicBand?

The #ShareYourEars Charity Drive Results are In

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 5, 2018

The #ShareYourEars Charity Drive Results are In

The #ShareYourEars charity drive was a rousing success! People from all over the world got in on the fun and shared their photos to help raise money for the Make a Wish Foundation. Photos were take everywhere from cruise ships to the #ShareYourEars walls that were erected in the Walt Disney Parks. Every photo meant one more donation from The Walt Disney Company. Today, on Walt Disney’s birthday, we are proud to share with you that the #ShareYourEars campaign raised 3 million dollars for Make a Wish.

You might be wondering what Make a Wish is, or you might not. Make a Wish grants wishes to children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 18 years who have been diagnosed with a life threatening illness. A trip to Walt Disney World is one of the most popular requests they get, and the Walt Disney Company has been granting wishes for almost 30 years. Children can be nominated by their parents, doctors, family friends, or they can even nominate themselves. From there, dedicated teams of volunteers go to the home of the child and talk to them to find out what they really want for their wish. Mom and Dad get no input, it is all on the child receiving the wish to make their own dreams known so they can come true. Once the team has a good idea of what they would like to do, they go back to their local chapter and plan a dream trip for that special child. The volunteers are what makes Make a Wish run smoothly and help so many children.

If you would like to donate to Make a Wish, you may do so through their website. Subaru is also running a campaign to help Make a Wish, and the Star Wars Costuming Community raise funds for them throughout the year. If you want to get involved, go to their website and find your local chapter to tell them you would like to volunteer and help make some dreams a reality.

D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs Now Serving Breakfast

By

Jessica Jones

-

December 5, 2018

*UPDATE 12/31/18: Disney has no confirmed that D-Luxe Burger is serving breakfast ongoing instead of just as a trial through 12/31/18!

D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs Now Serving Breakfast!!

The popular restaurant, D-Luxe Burger, at Disney Springs will now be serving breakfast! But, this is a limited time offer! D-Luxe will only be offering breakfast now until January 1, 2019 as a special holiday treat! Breakfast will be served from 8:30am to 10:30am daily. For lunch and dinner the classic eatery will still serve their uniquely created burgers, fries, desserts, and a multitude of other beverages, including alcoholic or non-alcoholic shakes.

Guests can find a wide-variety on the breakfast menu to choose from, which isn’t that different from their choices for lunch and dinner. To start off, guests can pick from the following entrees, which will all be priced at $7.99 each:

Classic Breakfast Burger: This mouthwatering entrée comes with the D-Luxe signature patty, cheddar, bacon, egg, and hash browns all served on a Parker House Roll.

Crispy Chicken Biscuit: This dish is created using buttermilk fried chicken, honey butter, chipotle mayonnaise and pickles on a cheddar biscuit. Sounds like it’s the perfect mixture of sweet and spicy!

Egg White Frittata Sandwich: Served on a Parker House roll, this meal comes complete with egg white, spinach, hash browns, Pico de Gallo and avocado crema. Sounds delightful!

El Diablo Breakfast Burger: This entrée is a Chorizo-signature blend patty, pepper jack cheese, smoked bacon-pepper jam and egg on a Cheddar biscuit.

D-Luxe Breakfast Sandwich: This dish consists of egg, cheddar cheese and bacon with your choice of the D-Luxe signature patty, chorizo patty, or buttermilk fried chicken.

Breakfast Sandwich: Based of the classic breakfast sandwich, you can find this sandwich egg, cheddar cheese and bacon on a small park house roll.

In addition to the entrees, guest can also purchase Greek Yogurt Parfait, Fresh-cut fries with Bearnaise Sauce, or Fresh-cut fries with Sausage Gravy. Don’t worry, guests can still pick-up one of their favorite artisan shakes! Guests can choose the Vanilla or Chocolate Gelato, S’mores Gelato, Cake Gelato, Salted Caramel Gelato, or Pumpkin Pie Gelato! They all sound delicious!

Are you excited to be able to try this new menu at one of our favorite counter-service eatery in Disney Springs? All of these dishes sound amazing, but I cannot wait to try the Crispy Chicken Biscuit entrée or the Salted Caramel Gelato! How about you? What has your taste buds watering?

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 Holiday Treats at Sunshine Seasons

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 5, 2018

Sunshine Seasons is always good for fresh food and delicious desserts. Of course, it just wouldn’t be the same over there without new holiday treats. We went to take a look at the new stuff. These pictures will have you wishing you were in Epcot right now.

First up is this beauty. I have never had a bad cup of chocolate mousse at Walt Disney World. This one is no different. It is their delicious chocolate mousse sitting in a bed of Oreo cookie crumbs, topped off with some sprinkles and a chocolate stick for good measure.

Strawberry Shortcake is always a good choice, as long as you can have strawberries. With layers of strawberries and came, topped off with whipped cream, holiday sprinkles, and half of a fresh strawberry, this is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

This is the Mickey Oreo Cheesecake. The name itself should tell you everything you need to know to decide this is a delicious treat. It is a Mickey-shaped piece of Oreo cheesecake with decorations on top that combine two of our favorites. Mickey Mouse has gotten the Santa Claus treatment on this cake, and we couldn’t be happier.

Now for my absolute favorite part of dessert at Sunshine Seasons, the cupcakes. This one is a Minnie Mouse cupcake. I haven’t had a chance to try this one, so I can’t tell you much about it, but the sign pretty clearly tells you it contains hazelnut. The decorations are adorable with Minnie’s bow on top and that decoration around the top of the cake that looks like a skirt.

This little guy is sitting on top of a Peanut Butter and Jelly cupcake. I am, unfortunately, not a fan of peanut butter and jelly, so this one probably wouldn’t be my first choice. However, that snowman is absolutely adorable!

This apple shaped cupcake is a mystery to me. It looks awesome, but I have no idea what is inside. If you have a chance to get one of these amazing desserts, especially this one, tell me about it in the comments below!

Thank you to our FABULOUS friend Mary M for these photos!

Disney After Hours at Animal Kingdom – Media Preview

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 5, 2018

Disney After Hours at Animal Kingdom - Media Preview

Disney After Hours at Animal Kingdom is one wild nighttime adventure. For the first time, Disney After Hours has created an event for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I had the honor of attending the first event, and WOW! The magic just came alive.

Ticket Pricing

Advance Ticket Price – $125 per person adult or child

Day of Event Price – $129 per person adult or child

Annual Passholder and Disney Vacation Club Member Price – $95 per person adult or child

Dates

Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Tuesday, March 5, 2019
Wednesday, March 20, 2019
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Wednesday, April 3, 2019

Event guests with Disney After Hours tickets can enter the park at 7:00 pm. The party officially starts at 8:30 pm and lasts until 11:30 pm. Each guest will receive a wristband after entering the gates, and an event guide.

Rides

F-I-V-E, five minutes that is all any ride had for a wait. Honestly, it was less than that because it was just your walk to the front of the queue. It was amazing. Never did I ever think that I would see a day that Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey would be a five-minute standby line. Being able to ride Flight of Passage a handful of times in a row was AWESOME! Also, I walked right up to front row on Expedition Everest and had TriceraTop Spin pretty much all to myself.

Entertainment

Rivers of Light, Tree of Life Awakenings, Pandora Drummers and a Dino-riffic Dance Party brought the park to life. The performance of Rivers of Light was unreal because it felt like the show was just for me. Unlike a regular night where the stands are jam-packed, and you are struggling to get a decent seat with a view, this was a breath of fresh air. I saw so much more of the show and could enjoy the details. Also throughout the evening, the Tree of Life Awakenings projections cast a beautiful glow on Discovery Island. Kicking the party up a notch in the Valley of Mo’ara were the Pandora Drummers. They had the whole crowd chanting and cheering along. Last but not least, the Dino-riffic Dance Party had Dinoland U.S.A up on their feet dancing the night away with Chip and Dale.

Snacks

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Included with the After Hours party admission is complimentary snacks and drinks. It is all you care to enjoy popcorn, Mickey ice cream bars, Mickey ice cream sandwiches, and strawberry popsicles. If you are thirsty, you can choose between bottled water, Sprite, Diet Coke or regular Coca-Cola. Believe you me; I took FULL advantage of all I cared to enjoy Mickey ice cream bars. I have a weakness what can I say?! Also, guests can enjoy (to purchase) refreshments at Pongu Pongu, Thirsty River Bar & Trek Snacks and other bars around the park.

Merchandise

On any given day in Windtraders, it is slammed, and you can’t even get near the rookery. During the event after I exited Flight of Passage, I was able to leisurely shop around. I saw quite a few families enjoying the lack of a line to adopt a banshee. Other shops were also open – The Dino Institute and Serka Zong Bazaar.

Overall Thoughts

The best way to describe Disney After Hours at Animal Kingdom is, it is the closest experience to having a Disney Park all to myself. No lines, no rushing, and all the Disney magic. I still can not believe Flight of Passage was a five-minute wait! Not to mention, it is absolutely gorgeous all lit up at night. It was incredible. Thank you again to Disney for inviting Chip and Co. To find out more information and purchase your tickets, click here. Will you and your family be attending a Disney After Hours event? Post in the comments below.

The Storybook at Artist Point is Starting to Come Alive

By

Jessica Jones

-

December 5, 2018

The Story Book Dining at Artist Point is Starting to Come Alive!

The story book at Artist Point is coming alive! Construction is well underway for Storybook Dining at Artist Point located at the Wilderness Lodge and we could not be more excited!! December 16^th cannot come soon enough!

Currently you can see a few magical décor taking shape but the beautiful inside is still very much hidden. The Artist Point we once knew is taking on a magical transformation into an Enchanted Forest where you can dine with Snow White, the Evil Queen, and even the seven Dwarfs! This will be an amazing character experience as you dine on storybook-themed appetizers, entrees, and desserts. It gets better! Guests are also in for a treat with the storybook-themed cocktails and mocktails, a variety of beers in bottles and draft, as well as a list of highly rated wines from Oregon and Washington state. But don’t take my word for it, take a closer look at the full sneak-peak menu here!

Now let’s take a look at what the construction looks like. As you can see Disney is trying to keep it a secret as much as possible. I mean, do you blame them? With the high anticipation of this amazingly themed dining experience I wouldn’t want to give away my secrets either!

Disney, of course, never disappoints in the décor. Take a look at that lamp post!

And of course the architecture! No wonder they came up with the storybook theme. I mean you feel as if you are dining in a log cabin. Those beams are stunning!!

This will definitely be a unique dining experience for all! I cannot wait until the 16^th so we can take a full look at this amazing magical transformation as we walk into a real-life storybook! Are you excited as we are? Which part are you most excited for?

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.

Jolly Magic Shots at Walt Disney World – A Perfect Holiday Souvenir

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 5, 2018

Jolly Magic Shots at Walt Disney World - A Perfect Holiday Souvenir

Jolly Magic Shots at Walt Disney World Be sure to take advantage of delightful photo enhancements! With the Disney PhotoPass Service, you can celebrate the magic of the season all throughout the parks!

Here is a sampling of some of the festive Magic Shots available around Walt Disney World.

You can take home all the Disney PhotoPass photos from your visit with the Memory Maker. The images are in an easy-to-share format and perfect for sending to family and friends across the miles. Photos snapped throughout the parks and Disney Springs are included with Memory Maker. If you are heading to the parks you can purchase Memory Maker online ahead of time!

Please Note: Disney PhotoPass Service at Walt Disney World Resort is subject to the PhotoPass terms and expiration policy available here. Online registration required. Downloads are restricted to personal use by Disney account holder only and may not be used for a commercial purpose. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate theme park admission required for certain photo locations.

*Memory Maker is subject to the applicable terms and policies available here. Includes photos taken during the applicable Memory Maker Window as defined in such terms (generally, photos taken (i) within one day for the One Day product or (ii) within 30 days from the date of the first activation for standard Memory Maker). A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy available here.

We love the unique look the Magic Shots bring to our treasured photo memories. We would love to see your favorite here at Chip and Co.! Please share with us!

Information and images copyright of Disney Parks Blog

A Must See -‘Mary Poppins Returns’- A Collection of Memorabilia at Disneyland

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 5, 2018

A Must See -‘Mary Poppins Returns’- A Collection of Memorabilia at Disneyland– Get up close and personal with iconic movie memorabilia. The Art of Mary Poppins Returns exhibit is now open at Disneyland Park in California. The specially curated collection of memorabilia is available now. It contains original art, costumes, props and video clips from the upcoming film. Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns” releases on December 19.

We are happy to share a video of Lin-Manuel Miranda, who stars in the film. He recently stopped by Disneyland to share a special message;

Visitors to Disneyland can find The Art of Mary Poppins Returns gallery located at the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln Theater, inside the main lobby.

Let’s take a look at some of the amazing items on display!

Now is the perfect time to head over to view the movie treasures. The film release is just weeks away and viewing this collection of memorabilia is a way to build excitement!

Step back into childhood and relive memories of the magical nanny. A new score and delightful special effects are sure to enchant a whole new generation of fans. Just as the original film did years ago.

We love seeing movies as part of our holiday festivities and ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ is on our list. What are some of your holiday traditions? Baking, sledding, seeing a holiday play? We love to hear from you here at Chip and Co

Information and photos copyright of Disney Parks Blog

Grand Floridian Cafe Adds New Outdoor Seating Area

By

Katelyn G

-

December 5, 2018

The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is located in the Magic Kingdom resort area at Walt Disney World. The Victorian-style hotel is a delight to stay in and always a hot commodity when booking days come around. From monorail access to fantastic dining options at your fingertips, the Grand Floridian is always a winner.

Located at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is the Grand Floridian Cafe. Featuring exquisite breakfast items like the lobster “Thermidor” burger to more of the classics like a steak dinner, this cafe is surely a treat.

The views and atmosphere at the Grand Floridian Cafe are definitely worth mentioning too. Guests can sip on a glass of champagne or the ever popular Glowing Character Punch for the kiddos while taking a peek at the courtyard pool and the whimsical rose gardens at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.

The Grand Floridian Cafe is always adding new experiences to make a guests’ trip even more special. They have now created an outdoor seating area on the terrace for those dining at the cafe. This patio filled with high-end outdoor furniture, tables adorned with white tablecloths and a small vase of flowers would be a beautiful way to start or end your long day at the park.

These seats are reserved for Grand Floridian Cafe diners only which means all guests staying at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa will not have access to it. This is a nice touch to keep the area more exclusive and secluded.

Get your reservation at the Grand Floridian Cafe now to enjoy a beverage and a lovely meal outside on a warm, Florida Winter day!