More behind the scenes of Pandora-The World of Avatar

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February 21, 2017

Pandora- The World of Avatar is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom this summer. Guests will be transported to a visually stunning world complete with floating mountains, bioluminescent plants and all kinds of immersive adventure.

Thanks to Walt Disney World Imagineering we can take a look inside Pandora- The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Portfolio Creative Executive Joe Rohde was part of Animal Kingdom’s original development team. He explains how Avatar fits within the original concept of Animal Kingdom. According to Joe, the film AVATAR and Disney’s Animal Kingdom had the same values in mind : Emphasizing the intrinsic value of nature; Exploring the idea that guests can be transformed through adventure; And inspiring guests to understand and respect the nature that exists in our world.

Pandora- The World of Avatar officially opens May 27th, 2017.

Celebration at the Top New Dining Experience coming to the California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

By

Chip

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February 21, 2017

How would you like to see Wishes from a private observation deck at the top of the Contemporary Resort? Celebration at the Top is a new dining event coming to California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort starting on February 26th!

Celebration at the Top guests can check in at California Grill an hour before fireworks. After being whisked up to the California Grill, which sits on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, guests will be taken to the intimate and secluded banquet rooms. Enjoy canapés, a selection of sushi rolled by the expert California Grill sushi chefs, a selection of flatbreads and other small plates. A complimentary bar offering craft beers, California wines, cordials and coffee will also be available.

Just before the night spectacular begins, guests will be lead to their private observation deck, which offers stunning views of Magic Kingdom park and the fireworks. After taking in the breathtaking sights and sounds, guests can return to the private room for petit four desserts including decadent chocolate confections and fruit tarts.

Reservations for Celebration at the Top are now open from February 26 to March 26. Cost is $99 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Complimentary valet parking is included.

Here is more info from the Disney World website.

Join us for an intimate event that celebrates fine food and fireworks.

Highlights
Experience the flavors of the Pacific Coast—and enjoy a dazzling fireworks display—during Celebration at the Top, a special event held in the private Sonoma Room and Napa Room of California Grill.

Here, you can relax, unwind and savor light bites and refreshments for one hour prior to the Magic Kingdomfireworks. Culinary offerings include:

Canapés, sushi and small plates inspired by the California Grill menu
Libations from the complimentary bar offering California wines, beers, and cordials.

As showtime approaches, step out onto the intimate and private observation deck reserved just for Celebration at the Top Guests. Here, you can enjoy an incredible view of the Wishes nighttime spectacular—the biggest and brightest fireworks in Magic Kingdom history. The lights will dim as music is piped into California Grill—so you’ll be immersed in the magic of the night.

After fireworks, head back inside to enjoy a sweet spread of petit four desserts, cordials and coffee.

Location
Celebration at the Top is held in the Sonoma Room and the Napa Room at California Grill, an award-winning restaurant located on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. These private rooms are ideal for intimate events, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and connecting to an exclusive observation deck—where you can enjoy sweeping views of Bay Lake and Magic Kingdom park.

Parking
For your convenience, complimentary valet parking is included with this event.

Pricing and Reservations
Start planning for an unforgettable evening. Explore pricing and reservation details for Celebration at the Top:

Pricing: $99 plus gratuity and tax per person
Dates: Held on select Sundays through March 26, 2017
Reservations: Book online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463

Wishes nighttime spectacular may be changed or canceled without prior notice.

Click here to check it out.

Note that if you use the Disney World Website the dates go April 16th.

Zootopia spoofs the Oscars with these hilarious parody movie posters

By

Chip

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February 21, 2017

Oh My Disney just released some hilarious movie posters parodying some of the biggest movies of the last year, including La La Land, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and Nocturnal Animals. The posters feature what the films may have looked like if released in the animal world of Zootopia, where there are no humans – only hilarious puns reflective of our human world.

The renowned creatives at Disney created the stunning images for Disney’s Oh My Disney site, which provides quippy editorial and shareable content for the daily Disney fan.

The parody film posters include:

La La Land as La La Lamb

Florence Foster Jenkins as Fru Fru Foster Jenkins, starring Meryl Squeak

Fantastic Beasts as “Fantastic Cheetahs and Where to Find Them”

Nocturnal Animals as “Nocturnal Mammals” starring Jag Gyllenhaal

Hell or High Water as Hell of High Otter

Hacksaw Ridge as Hogsaw Ridge

A top contender for this weekend’s Academy Award in “Best Animated Film,” Zootopia was a record-breaking box office success with a worldwide gross of more than $1 billion, making it the third highest-grossing film of 2016, and the 26th highest-grossing film of all time.

Menu for Beauty and the Beast-Inspired Restaurant at Disneyland Released

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 21, 2017

In order to celebrate the new live action remake of Beauty and The Beast, beginning on February 24th, and for a limited time only, you will be able to dine in a quick service location inspired by the new movie while in Fantasyland at Disneyland Resort.

The Village Haus restaurant is currently being Transformed into the Red Rose Taverne; a lively tavern that is outfitted with decor and menu inspired by the new Beauty and the Beast movie.

Disney Parks Blog has shared the menu you can expect when the Red Rose Taverne opens on February 24th, and it all sounds amazing:

Beast’s Burger – A 1/3 pound Angus beef patty, slow-cooked beef, Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato and horseradish aioli on a toasted roll.
Classic Angus Cheeseburger – A 1/3 pound Angus beef patty with cheese, lettuce, tomato and signature sauce on a toasted roll.
Enchanted Cauliflower Sandwich – A grilled cauliflower steak, spicy lime aioli, tempura-battered green beans, lettuce and tomato on a toasted roll.
Slow-Cooked Beef Poutine – Slow-cooked beef and gravy over seasoned waffle-cut fries, pickled onions and cheese curds.
Chicken Sandwich à la Lumière – Grilled chicken breast, apple slaw, onion-bacon jam and fried cherry peppers on a toasted roll.
Chef’s Chopped Salad – Cabbage, Romaine and iceberg lettuce, smoked bacon, apple, hard-cooked eggs, blue cheese crumbles, garlic croutons and apple vinaigrette.
Poutine Flatbread – Topped with slow-cooked beef, pomme frites, roasted garlic aioli, cheese curds, gravy and herb oil.
Garden Mozzarella Flatbread – Topped with marinated tomatoes, fresh Mozzarella, basil and tomato sauce.
Pulled Pork Flatbread – Topped with pulled pork, roasted corn, sweet and spicy barbecue sauce, pickled onions and cilantro.
Grey Stuff Gateau – A white chocolate mousse and red velvet cake with a sweet raspberry center.
Lemon Rose Cake – A lemon mousse cake with strawberry-rose filling.
Gaston’s Famous Brew – Apple-mango punch topped with passion fruit foam.

Red Rose Taverne is a limited-time offering, so be sure to visit while you can!

Which will you try first?

If you would like to visit a Disney destination, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

photos: Disney Parks Blog

A Few Disney Springs Gift Ideas for Your Four-legged Friends

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 21, 2017

Whether your visiting Walt Disney World with your favorite canine companions in-tow or leave them at home, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to surprise your loyal companion with one of these amazing pet souvenirs that can be found at Disney Springs – Walt Disney World’s Downtown Shopping District.

Sugar Free Canine Cupcakes at Sprinkles Bakery – Not only is Sprinkles the home to the famous cupcake ATM, but they also offer special cupcakes for those doggies on the go. For $3 your dog can tuck into a sugar-free cupcake with yogurt frosting.

For more information on Sprinkles please visit there website here.

Treats for those “Bad-to-the-Bone” Mutts at Harley Davidson- This motorcycle shop may be the last place you’d think to look for that special treat for your four-legged friend. However, check out these amazing “bad to the bone” chew toys. And that’s not all, dog-lovers can also choose from an array of leashes, fun accessories like black leather caps, and a broad range of toys.

Pup Magnets at Happy Hounds – If you’re a dog-owner than add a visit to Happy Hounds to your Disney Springs “must-do” list. Here guests will find an array of doggy delights including: collars, tags, outfits, and squeaky toys just to name a few. There’s also small items perfect for your carry on luggage like the fun array of magnets show above.

For more information on Happy Hounds please visit their website here.

Engraved ID Tags Available at Disney Pin Traders – Further proof that this Disney Springs shop has everything! Not only can you by the latest pin to add to your collection but you can also treat that special friend in your life to a personalized, Disney-inspired ID tag! With a range of different designs on offer, there’s bound to be one perfect for your pooch.

“Disney Tails” Collection at World of Disney – No visit to Disney Springs is complete without a visit to this massive Disney-themed retail outlet. At World of Disney you’ll find a delightful combination of Disney store offerings and theme park merchandise. Included among the lines sold here is the fun “Disney Tails” collection which features dog specialty items with a focus on iconic Disney images like the Mickey Ice Cream Bar squeaky toy that you’ll find above.

So next time you pay a visit to Walt Disney World, don’t leave without picking out a little something for your favorite 4-legged companion. Happy shopping!

Ready to book your 2017 Walt Disney World Vacation Package? Start by filling 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. 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.

Disneyland Half Marathon 2017 Theme Announced

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 21, 2017

The theme for the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend has been announced, and runners will be pleased to hear that they will be running in races with a plethora of Disney-Pixar movie themes!

Disney Parks Blog announced the following themes for the event weekend of August 31 – September 3, 2017 :

Adventure is out there at this year’s Kids Races featuring “Up!”
Mr. & Mrs. Incredible are ready for the run. The Disneyland 5K theme is “The Incredibles.”
Mike and Sulley host 6.2 miles of scares at the Disneyland 10K featuring “Monsters University.”
Race to infinity and beyond with the pals of “Toy Story” at the Disneyland Half.
Disneyland Double Dare: Celebrating Pixar Animation Studios

If you haven’t signed up yet, there is still availability for certain races, so check out RunDisney’s website here for more information and to register!

What do you think of the new Pixar themes?

If you would like to visit a Disney destination, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

photos: Disney Parks Blog

First Look: Han Solo – A New Star Wars Story Begins Production

By

Chip

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February 21, 2017

We have a first look at the all new Han Solo – A New Star Wars Story Movie that is coming in 2018…

The adventure-filled past of the iconic scoundrel and everyone’s favorite Wookiee is going before cameras this month when principal photography on the untitled Han Solo Star WarsStory officially began February 20th at Pinewood Studios, London.

The movie will explore the duo’s adventures before the events of Star Wars: A New Hope, including their early encounters with that other card-playing rogue from a galaxy far, far away, Lando Calrissian.

Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are directors co-piloting the movie, with a cast that includes Alden Ehrenreich as Han Solo, Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover as Lando Calrissian, Thandie Newton, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge, with Joonas Suotamo as Chewbacca.

“Watching such inspired people from all over the world, with such unique voices, come together for the sole purpose of making art, is nothing short of miraculous,” Lord and Miller said. “We can’t think of anything funny to say, because we just feel really moved, and really lucky.”

Written by Lawrence and Jon Kasdan, it will be produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Allison Shearmur, Simon Emanuel and co-produced by Kiri Hart, Susan Towner and Will Allegra. Lawrence Kasdan and Jason McGatlin will executive produce.

Crewing the ship will be some of the industry’s top talent, including Academy Award nominee for his work on “Arrival,” Bradford Young (Director of Photography), Chris Dickens (Editor), Dominic Tuohy (SFX Supervisor), Rob Bredow (VFX Supervisor) and Brad Allan (Action Designer).

They will be joining returning Star Wars veteran crew members Neal Scanlan (Creature & Droid FX Creative Supervisor), Neil Lamont (Production Designer), Dave Crossman and Glyn Dillon (Co-Costume Designers), Jamie Wilkinson (Prop Master), Lisa Tomblin (Hair), Amanda Knight (Make-Up) and Nina Gold (UK Casting Director).

The untitled Han Solo Star Wars Story is slated for release on May 25, 2018.

Mighty St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 21, 2017

If you are looking to spend your St Patrick’s Day at an Irish Pub to celebrate while at the Walt Disney World Resort this year, then look no further! Our favorite Irish Pub, Raglan Road in Disney Springs, is hosting an event they call Mighty St. Patrick’s Day 2017.

According to the event’s Facebook page the festival is multiple days and runs from Thursday, March 16 through Sunday, March 19th.

There will be fine Irish food, Irish stepdancers, Irish craft beer and specialty cocktails, along with performances by:

Young Dubliners
The Byrne Brothers
HanaLena Band
The Raglan Roots Coalition
Swingin’ On the Gate
Rollickin’ Rua
Jennifer Lyons
The Raglan Road Irish Dancers

On St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated on a first-come, first served basis. A cover charge of $10 will apply to each guest 18 and over on March 17 only.

Fo more information about the upcoming event(s), be sure to check out Raglan Road’s website.

Will you be attending this festively Irish celebration?

If you would like to visit a Disney destination, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

New Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales Posters Released

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 21, 2017

Three new “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” posters have just been released. The fifth installment of this franchise is due out this summer and these cool looking poster give us all something to look forward to.

“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” will be released into theaters nationwide on Friday, May 26th.

Disney Cruise Line Summer 2018 Itineraries on Sale February 23rd

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 21, 2017

Those hoping to set sail with Disney Cruise Lines next Summer are in luck as Disney announced details today for sailings starting June 2018. This includes new ports and itineraries in Europe Alaska and the Caribbean. All bookings will open to the public on February 23, 2017. Here’s a taste of what will be on offer:

New Sailings from Rome and Barcelona – For the first time, Disney Cruise Line guests can experience the rich culture of Barcelona and inspiring history of Rome as bookend experiences in a single cruise.

On June 16, 2018, the Disney Magic will sail a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome). Ports of call include Marseilles and Villefranche, France; and Genoa (Milan), Livorno (Florence, Pisa) and Naples, Italy.

On June 23, 2018, the Disney Magic will sail a seven-night itinerary from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Barcelona. Ports visited on this cruise are Naples, Livorno (Florence, Pisa) and Genoa (Milan), Italy; and Cannes and Marseilles, France.

First-time visits to Milan, Italy – Disney Cruise Line will also visit on Genoa, Italy starting in 2018, as part of three special sailings from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome).

A 10-night Mediterranean itinerary sailing from Barcelona on July 7, 2018, calls on Genoa, as well as other popular ports in Italy, France and Spain.

First-time visit to Cork, Ireland as part of 7-night British Isles Cruise – The Disney Magic will visit Cork, Ireland for the first time as part a 7-night British Isles cruise, departing on Sept. 2, 2018. Additional ports visited on this sailing include Dublin, Ireland; Greenock, Scotland; and Liverpool, England.

Disney Returns to Alaska – In 2018, the newly re-imagined Disney Wonder returns to Alaska for the Summer, where guests can enjoy breathtaking natural vistas, magnificent glaciers and awe-inspiring wildlife. 5, 7 and 9-night itineraries will depart from Vancouver, Canada, with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Tracy Arm Fjord.

Special 11-night Caribbean sailing – The Disney Fantasy will embark on an exclusive 11-night southern Caribbean cruise departing June 30, 2018 including visits to Aruba, Barbados, Martinique, St. Kitts, Puerto Rico and Castaway Cay.

Even more chances to visit Disney’s exclusive private island Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, is consistently a top-rated destination. In 2018, the Disney Dream will sail a series of cruises that include two stops at Castaway Cay so guests can have twice the fun in the sun and enjoy even more of the pristine island paradise.

On June 6, 20, and July 4, the Disney Dream will sail from Port Canaveral, Fla., on 4-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, plus two stops at Castaway Cay.

On June 1, 10, 15, 24, 29, and July 8, the Disney Dream will sail from Port Canaveral, Fla., on 5- night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, plus two stops at Castaway Cay.

More details on 2018 itineraries can be found on the Ports and Itineraries for 2018 page of disneycruise.com.

When it comes to cruising with Disney Cruise Line, the earlier you book the better the savings. So what are you waiting for fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

Need help planning your Disney Cruise? 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 stateroom to making the most of your time at sea. 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.

The Cast of “Beauty and the Beast” Kicks Off Their Worldwide Tour in Paris

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 21, 2017

The cast and filmmakers from Disney’s live-action “Beauty and the Beast” including Emma Watson, Dan Stevens Josh Gad, Luke Evans, director Bill Condon and composer Alan Menken, gathered in the City of Light earlier today. Paris is the perfect setting for the launch of the worldwide press tour, as it is France where the story originated.

Here is a first look, as well, from the first scene of the film.
Enjoy!

Sneak Peek of New Disney Store 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Products!

By

Danielle

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February 21, 2017

This year the Disney Store celebrates it’s 30th Anniversary! I still remember going to the grand opening of our first local Disney Store when I was just a little girl, and how magical it felt! To commemorate the Disney Store 30th Anniversary, they will be releasing gorgeous new Limited Edition items!

Bring home the magic of the last three decades, with enchanting new items celebrating the Disney Store 30th Anniversary. Lots of gorgeous merchandise has already been released, but there is more to come. Launching on Tuesday, March 28th is a magical assortment of collectibles celebrating our favorite Disney characters, old and new.

30th Anniversary Snow Globe

The 30th Anniversary Snow Globe, is a pixie dusted treat. Our favorite duo Mickey & Minnie are arm and arm within the glass globe, while surrounded by beloved characters from the beginning until now. I’m delighted that even Baymax makes an appearance on this collectible. The base is a swirl of blues with a relief image of Tinkerbell flying around with a trail of pixie dust. The snow globe will retail for $149.95.

30th Anniversary Vinylmation

Vinylmations are always a great commemorative collectible. They are adorable, petite, and of course not overly fragile. The 30th anniversary set includes Mickey and Minnie dressed in their Disney Store themed best! Both are wearing deep blue outfits, with lots of silver dazzles. Mickey’s bow tie, and Minnie’s bow each have a “diamond” stud. I love that their outfits mimic the packaging for a lot of the 30th anniversary merchandise. The vinylmation set will retail for $29.95.

Mickey Mouse and Friends 30th Anniversary Tsum Tsum Set

Mickey and his pals get the Tsum Tsum treatment with these vintage styled plush toys. The box is made to look like a film clapperboard! We get all of the sensational six with this set, Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto! This set will retail for $39.95

30th Anniversary Disney Ornament Set

Eight new ornaments will be available in this boxed collection. They will be packaged in a dazzling blue and silver box and nestled gently within with a fabric lined inside. This set is all about the more classic vintage characters. You’ll be able to snag this collectible box for a retail of $59.95.

30th Anniversary Pixar Ornament Set

Not to be left out, are some of our newer favorites with the Disney PIXAR ornament set. Six ornaments from the Disney PIXAR films find their way into our hearts with this collection. The UP! ornament is of Carl and Eli’s house flying on balloons, and I think it’s probably my favorite one. The PIXAR Ornament collection will retail for $59.95 as well.

What do you think of the magical new merchandise headed our way for the Disney Store 30th Anniversary? Be sure to check out the 30th Anniversary gear that is already available, before it’s gone!