Disney Cruise Line Offers Magical Winter Holiday Cruises

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August 9, 2017

Disney Cruise Line has the perfect holiday cruises awaiting your family! Beginning in November the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are all decked in holiday cheer for the Very Merrytime Cruises. These cruises are packed full of holiday festivities including traditional “turkey day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas.

During these voyages through the new year, special stem-to-stern holiday events include:

“Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” in the atrium lobby on the first night of the cruise, where Disney characters lead holiday carols and the lighting of the glittering, three-deck-tall tree.
“Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball” in the atrium lobby, where Disney cruisers welcome the guests of honor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, with a grand celebration featuring Broadway-style entertainment, favorite Disney characters and classic holiday tunes. This evening of enchantment is made complete when a special pair of royal sisters joins the party and causes a flurry of “frozen” fun as a magical snowfall overtakes the atrium.
Dickens-inspired carolers carrying the spirit of the holidays throughout the ship while singing holiday classics, sometimes with the help of favorite Disney friends. At the end of the cruise, children will have the opportunity to join the carolers onstage for a special farewell show.
Family holiday activities including building gingerbread houses and meeting Santa Claus.
Youth holiday crafts such as decorating stockings and gingerbread men cookies, making holiday cards and creating holiday animation cells.
“Deck the Deck Holiday Party,” a tropical celebration with Disney friends leading games such as hula hooping and limbo under oversized candy canes, along with dances for the whole family like the “Yuletide Slide” and a conga line around the pool.
A special holiday edition of the cheerful farewell celebration on the final night of the cruise, with beloved Disney characters and the ship’s crew in an engaging musical finale led by Mickey Mouse.

On Thanksgiving Day, guests will enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving Day feast and visits from Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire. Also during the special Thanksgiving voyages, NFL football games will be broadcast live on the ships’ outdoor, jumbo LED screens – Funnel Vision – located near the family pool.

Christmas morning at the atrium lobby tree Santa Claus and his helpers will have a surprise for all the kids, and guests will delight in a special musical performance from the children. A traditional Christmas Dinner will be served that night in the dining rooms.

Christmas services will be held on Christmas Day with a midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Hanukkah services will be held each day, Dec. 12 to Dec. 20.

Special holiday décor adorns each ship from bow to stern, anchored by a three-deck-tall tree in the atrium lobby. The 20’ tall tree is uniquely decorated to complement the existing colors and overall theme of the lobby, including a custom star that is as unique as the ship. All together, the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Dream have 402 garlands totaling 3,768’, 126 wreaths ranging from 24” to 60” and 130 trees ranging from 24” to 8’.

When the ships stop at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, during the holidays, the celebration continues with “snow flurries,” a decked-out Christmas tree, Disney character meet-and-greets and holiday island music.

For an extra sprinkle of holiday joy, special amenities are available for stateroom delivery. Purchased in advance of sailing, these include holiday-themed gift packages and treat baskets and even mini Christmas trees decorated with ornaments, red berries, mini carnations and a bow topper. Plus, during the holiday cruises, the Disney Cruise Line holiday merchandise collection and ever-popular Disney Cruise Line ornaments will be available in the gift shops.

To ring in 2018, voyages during the holiday include a special New Year’s Eve party, complete with music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes and a midnight countdown.

To celebrate the holidays, the

Disney Magic sails from November 11 – December 24 for:

Four, five, seven and eight-night Bahamian cruises
Five night Eastern Caribbean cruises and
Five-night Western Caribbean cruise

Disney Wonder sails from November 10 – December 22 for:

Seven-night Western Caribbean cruises
Seven-night Bahamian cruises

Disney Dream sails from November 10 – December 22 for:

Three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing from Nov. 10 to Dec. 22

Disney Fantasy sails from November 11 to December 23 for:

Seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises

Ready to start planning a Disney vacation? Click here for a FREE, no obligation quote or fill out the form below for a FREE quote.

As an agent with MickeyTravels, LLC, I can help save you time and money planning your next Disney vacation. The best part is my services are always FREE! Contact me today at [email protected] or (229) 977-3773. Join me on Facebook for the latest Disney updates and tips.

Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Holiday Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Starts Booking Today

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2017

Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Holiday Dessert Party at Disney's Hollywood Studios Starts Booking Today

Christmas will be here before you know it, and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is back for 2017!

Get ready to celebrate a tinsel-town holiday with family and friends. Enjoy holiday themed snacks, delicious desserts, wine, beer, specialty cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Party goers will also get to mingle with a special VIP character. The evening comes to a close with reserved viewing for Disney Movie and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Each party guest will also receive a holiday keepsake. Make magical holiday memories that will last a lifetime.

On sale now, tickets are available for November 9th through December 15th for $79 per adult and $45 for ages 3-9. And then from December 17th through December 31st for $89 per adult and $49 for ages 3-9. Party times will vary throughout the season. Call 407-939-DINE(3463) to book your tickets today! Don’t wait this event does sell out!

Are you ready to celebrate the holidays at Disney with this amazing dessert party?

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote today!

Find these tips helpful and would like some more to make your Disney vacation the most magical and stress-free ever? Click the link above and fill out the form or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations around the globe. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.770.800.6500, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook

Add a Touch of Fun with Disney Inspired Iron On Patches

By

Danielle

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August 9, 2017

Disney Inspired Iron On Patches

If you’re looking for a cute way to add a touch of fun and whimsy to your accessories, you should check out iron on patches! These Disney Inspired Iron On Patches from Makings of a Dreamer are a great way to add a splash of color, and Disney to your wardrobe.

Patches have always been a favorite item of mine for sprucing up plain back packs, and shoulder bags. I haven’t come across very many Disney or PIXAR ones, aside from the usual Mickey and Minnie or other main character ones though. You can add them to jackets, shorts, hats, jeans, really anywhere! My favorite is the Pizza Planet one, but there’s also a Wilderness Explorer’s Badge, and Ralph’s cookie hero badge in Set 1. Then Set 2 has Ellie’s Adventure book, Judy’s Police badge, and the Disneyland Sign.

Where would you put these Disney Inspired Iron On Patches?

New ‘Coco’ Poster Introduces Us to Miguel and His Family

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2017

Disney – Pixar’s next hit movie, Coco, is set to hit theaters worldwide this November. In anticipation of movie’s release, the movie’s international poster has been released.

The poster shows Miguel and his dog Coco, the main characters of the movie, surrounded by several members smiling of Miguel’s family. Large groups featured in a movie’s poster are not uncommon for Disney – Pixar movies. Toy Story, Cars, and Finding Nemo all featured several people in their promotional posters and also turned out to be very successful films.

Here is the official poster:

Chip had the opportunity to catch a sneak peak of Coco last week at the Pixar Studios and said it looks incredible! To learn more about the movie, CLICK HERE. To see the trailer, CLICK HERE.

Are you excited to see Coco? I’ve been waiting for this one ever since it was announced!

Let’s start planning your next visit to Disney World or a Disney Destination! CLICK HERE or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rate offered by Disney and my services are 100% FREE!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.954.401.9577, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

Credit: Disney – Pixar and PixarPost.com

Relive the Journey with The Great Movie Ride Wall Sign

By

Danielle

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August 8, 2017

Great Movie Ride Wall Sign

As we all sadly know, The Great Movie Ride will be saying it’s final farewell’s August 13. But that doesn’t mean we can’t remember our favorite journey into the movies with a beautiful The Great Movie Ride Wall Sign from the Disney Store.

The Great Movie Ride Sign

Take a seat, and relive the ”Spectacular journey into the movies” with this wall sign for The Great Movie Ride. Crafted in wood, it replicates the neon sign outside the popular attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is a screen art print on composite wood and measures 12 3/4” H x 30” W.

Although the Enchanted Tiki Room is safe for the time being, there is also a beautiful replica of the sign from that attraction available online as well!

The Enchanted Tiki Room Wall Sign

It must be a sign from the gods! Follow this replica sign to the tiki tiki tiki room in your own home to see birds sing and flowers croon – or maybe just you and the family kicking back! Part of the 50th Anniversary celebration of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room.

Are you going to miss The Great Movie Ride? Would you display this The Great Movie Ride Wall Sign in your home?

‘Bachelorette’ Finale Takes Many by Surprise

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2017

The Bachelorette on ABC is known for it’s drama and this season did not disappoint. Many viewers were upset over who Bachelorette, Rachel Lindsay, selected for her final rose to even the format of the finale show.

The evening started with three contestants remaining from the original 25. Eric Bigger, a personal trainer from Baltimore, Maryland, was the first to be sent packing. This surprised many viewers at they thought he would at least be in the final two if not the winner of the dating reality show.

Then, viewers everywhere really gasped when Lindsay allowed Peter Kraus, a business owner from Madison, Wisconsin, to walk away when he said he wasn’t ready to propose at the final rose ceremony.

That left Bryan Abasolo, a chiropractor from Miami, Florida, with the coveted final rose. He also proposed to Lindsay and she accepted.

The format of the three hour, live finale was also a bit different from previous seasons. Previously, the Bachelorette and her final suitors would come out after the complete portion of the recorded show ended for live interviews. This season, ABC kept flipping back and forth between the recorded portions to do live interviews with Lindsay and her final contestants.

Lindsay and Abasolo confirmed they are still engaged and “in love” when the live portion of the show wrapped up.

It sounds like the real winner last night may be ABC. The finale is reported to have brought in an average of 7.5 million viewers during the three-hour period. This made it the most watched show last night.

Another popular spinoff from the Bachelor franchise, Bachelor in Paradise, premieres Monday, August 14.

Disney is the parent company of ABC.

Did you watch this past season of the Bachelorette? What were your thoughts?

Let’s start planning your next visit to Disney World or a Disney Destination! CLICK HERE or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rate offered by Disney and my services are 100% FREE!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations. I work with all Disney Destinations. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.954.401.9577, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

Photo Credit: ABC

Disney Starting Own Streaming Service And Pulling Movies From Netflix

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2017

Today during its latest earnings report, The Walt Disney Company announced that it will be acquiring majority ownership of BAMTech, LLC and starting its own streaming services. Disney will be pulling its movies from Netflix in the process. It will launch its ESPN-branded multi-sport video streaming service in early 2018, followed by a new Disney-branded direct-to-consumer streaming service in 2019.

CEO Bob Iger says that Netflix may still be used for ABC programming but not Disney and Pixar films. There is talk that Marvel and LucasFilm may not be included in the streaming service but instead could be given their own platform instead.

Under terms of the transaction, Disney will pay $1.58 billion to acquire an additional 42% stake in BAMTech—a global leader in direct-to-consumer streaming technology and marketing services, data analytics, and commerce management—from MLBAM, the interactive media and Internet company of Major League Baseball. Disney previously acquired a 33% stake in BAMTech under an agreement that included an option to acquire a majority stake over several years, and today’s announcement marks an acceleration of that timetable for controlling ownership.

“The media landscape is increasingly defined by direct relationships between content creators and consumers, and our control of BAMTech’s full array of innovative technology will give us the power to forge those connections, along with the flexibility to quickly adapt to shifts in the market,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “This acquisition and the launch of our direct-to-consumer services mark an entirely new growth strategy for the Company, one that takes advantage of the incredible opportunity that changing technology provides us to leverage the strength of our great brands.”

The ESPN-branded multi-sport service will offer a robust array of sports programming, featuring approximately 10,000 live regional, national, and international games and events a year, including Major League Baseball, National Hockey League, Major League Soccer, Grand Slam tennis, and college sports. Individual sport packages will also be available for purchase, including MLB.TV, NHL.TV and MLS Live.

The new service will be accessed through an enhanced version of the current ESPN app. In addition to the multi-sport service, the ESPN app will include the news, highlights, and scores that fans enjoy today. Consumers who are pay TV subscribers will also be able to access the ESPN television networks in the same app on an authenticated basis. For many sports fans, this app will become the premier digital destination for all their sports content.

The new Disney-branded service will become the exclusive home in the U.S. for subscription-video-on-demand viewing of the newest live action and animated movies from Disney and Pixar, beginning with the 2019 theatrical slate, which includes Toy Story 4, the sequel to Frozen, and The Lion King from Disney live-action, along with other highly anticipated movies. Disney will also make a significant investment in an annual slate of original movies, TV shows, short-form content and other Disney-branded exclusives for the service. Additionally, the service will feature a vast collection of library content, including Disney and Pixar movies and Disney Channel, Disney Junior and Disney XD television programming.

With this strategic shift, Disney will end its distribution agreement with Netflix for subscription streaming of new releases, beginning with the 2019 calendar year theatrical slate.

Plans are for the Disney and ESPN streaming services to be available for purchase directly from Disney and ESPN, in app stores, and from authorized MVPDs.

“We’re very proud of the content distribution innovations driven by MLBAM and BAMTech over the past 15 years,” said Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred, Jr. “Major League Baseball will continue to work with Disney and ESPN to further grow BAMTech as it breaks new ground in technologies for consumers to access entertainment and sports programming.”

“This is an exciting validation of our team, its achievements and the customer-centric platform it’s built,” said Michael Paull, Chief Executive Officer of BAMTech. “Yet, we’ve merely scratched the surface of what can be accomplished in a future where we combine Disney and ESPN’s world-class IP and our proprietary direct-to-consumer ecosystem.”

The BAMTech transaction is subject to regulatory approval, and upon closing, Mr. Iger will serve as Chairman of the BAMTech Board. MLBAM and NHL will continue as minority stakeholders in BAMTech, with seats on the Board. Mr. Paull will report to Kevin A. Mayer, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, The Walt Disney Company. John Skipper, ESPN President and Co-Chairman, Disney Media Networks, will manage the new ESPN-branded service.

The BAMTech transaction is expected to be modestly dilutive to Disney’s earnings per share for two years. Additional dilution as the Company implements its direct-to-consumer strategy will be dependent on the Company’s licensing approach and the level of investment in original programming.

Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? There are still fantastic 2017 Summer and Fall packages to be had. Click here or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

Want more help planning your next Disney vacation? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I create customized itineraries, book advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation, and much much more! And did I mention that my services are FREE? Get in touch toll-free at 1-800-454-4501, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Source Credit : Disney

Create Your Own Glamorous Disney Princess Crochet Blankets

By

Danielle

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August 8, 2017

Disney Princess Crochet Blankets

If you fancy yourself a crafty princess, I’m sure you’re always looking for new ways to create your own Disney items. How about making your own Disney Princess snuggie? Well you’re in luck, because Etsy designer Carol Hladik has created beautiful patterns to make Disney Princess Crochet Blankets!

There are three patterns available for download from her shop: Belle, Cinderella and Rapunzel! With these patterns you can create your own magical blankets using any yarn or colors you prefer! The pattern includes instructions for 5 sizes toddler, child, and two adult size instructions! The blankets are designed to look like a Princess dress. Just slip your arms into your new creation and feel like a princess!

The downloadable patterns are only $5.50 and will be located under your purchases tab.

Which of these Disney Princess Crochet Blankets would you make first?

Photo Credit: Ruben Chamorro

Alfre Woodard and John Kani Join All-Star Lion King Live-Action Cast

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2017

As the casting of the new live-action version of “The Lion King” builds momentum, we are hearing more news about additions to the all-star cast involved in the project. According to a piece in the Hollywood Reporter, Alfre Woodard has agreed to take on the role of Sarabi, Simba’s mother. Woodard, a prolific actress, has appeared in Marvel’s Luke Cage on Netflix as well as Captain America: Civil War. She also voiced the role of Pilo in Disney’s film Dinosaur.

In addition, reports are also surfacing that John Kani will be joining the cast as the baboon Rafiki. Kani’s past credits also include Captain America: Civil War where he was cast in the role of

Woodard and Kani join an already robust line-up with other notable additions to the cast including John Oliver as Zazu, Donald Glover as Simba, Billy Eichner as Timon, Seth Rogan as Pumba and Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar. John Favreau will take the helm as director after the massive success of his live-action version of The Jungle Book.

Keep following along with Chip and Co for the latest news and updates regarding The Lion King as well as other Disney releases.

lick here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Thinking about a visit to Aulani? There are still fantastic 2017 packages to be had and 2018 packages are now available! Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations and sharing tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at the parks. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Image copyright Disney

Chip and Dale-themed Premium Experience is Being Updated at Aulani’s Aunty’s Beach House

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2017

Many of the games, crafts and activities at Aulani:-A Disney Resort & Spa are complimentary to guests staying at the resort. However, for those looking for an extra special treat for your little ones, there have traditionally been a couple of premium experiences on offer providing guests with an opportunity to indulge in a delicious meal, coordinated activities and meet ups with much-loved Disney characters.

According to an article recently published by wdwinfo.com, it would seem that one of these premium activities is being re-imagined to provide even more fun to Aulani’s young visitors. Previously dubbed “Surf’s Up With Chip and Dale”, this Aunty’s Beach House activity will be re-named “Surf’s Up – A Surfin’, Fishin’ and Dancin’ Party” and will change it’s run time fro 90 minutes to 3hrs.

During this fantastic offering, children will decorate their own wooden mini-surfboards, dine with Disney Characters, have a dance party with Chip and Dale and then join Goofy for some fishing fun!

The cost for this experience is $59 per child. Due to popularity, advance reservations are recommended for Premium Experiences. Secure your spot by calling the Reservation Center at (808) 674-6200 . Payment is due upon arrival. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

For the most up-to-date activities information, please refer to the daily Resort schedule, or Daily ‘Iwa, upon arrival at the Resort.

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Thinking about a visit to Aulani? There are still fantastic 2017 packages to be had and 2018 packages are now available! Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations and sharing tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at the parks. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Image copyright Disney

Update To Disneyland Downtown Disney Parking Validation Policy

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2017

Update To Disneyland Downtown Disney Parking Validation Policy

Heading to Disneyland soon? A new change is coming to the Downtown Disney parking validation policy that you should be aware of.

Starting August 16, the parking policy will be updated to provide 2 hours of free parking when you make a $20 minimum purchase and receive validation from any Downtown Disney location (including quick-service restaurants and kiosks). You will also receive up to 4 hours of free parking with validation from any Downtown Disney table-service restaurant or AMC Theatres movie experience.

This is a change from the previous policy of allowing any guest to park for free for up to 2 hours with no purchase necessary.

The additional hourly charges will remain the same at $12 (charged in 30-minute increments). There is also a minimum $6 charge after the initial 15-minute grace period. Additionally, the maximum daily parking and lost ticket fees will increase from $36 to $48.

What do you think of this change? Decrease in parking congestion or increase in parking headaches?

Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? There are still fantastic 2017 Summer and Fall packages to be had. Click here or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

Want more help planning your next Disney vacation? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I create customized itineraries, book advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation, and much much more! And did I mention that my services are FREE? Get in touch toll-free at 1-800-454-4501, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Source Credit: Disney

ESPN Brings “ESPN8: The Ocho” to the Airwaves Today

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 8, 2017

If you are looking for your favorite ESPNU programs today and come across dart tournaments, dodge ball tournaments, and other “alternative” programming, don’t be surprised! “ESPN8: The Ocho” has taken over regularly scheduled programming for today, August 8 (8/8). “The Ocho” was a fictional network that was showcased in the 2004 cult classic “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story” featuring Vince Vaughn, Christine Taylor and Ben Stiller.

In the movie, “The Ocho’s” motto was “Bringing you the Finest in Seldom Seen Sports”. That is true for today! I can say I have never watched 2016 Sky Zone Ultimate Trampoline Dodgeball or the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup Final.

Some other events that you can expect to see today are:

2017 Championship of Bags: A cornhole tournament for all!
Firefighters World Challenge XXV: Firefighters from around the globe compete in challenges to show who has the best skills. Some of the challenges include climbing a five-story tower and rescuing a “victim.”
2016 Kabaddi World Cup Final: Originally from India, this contact sport puts two teams against each other and introduces a unique rule.

For the full schedule of programming, CLICK HERE.

Disney is the parent company of ESPN.

Will you be turning into “The Ocho” today?