Disney Announces Pro Bowl Week Events

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January 23, 2017

If you are traveling to Walt Disney World to catch some of the activities for this year’s Pro Bowl, then you’ll want to check out this list of activities Disney has posted for the NFL event.

The Pro Bowl Events begin Wednesday at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, where NFL fans are invited to get a close glimpse of their favorite NFL players during AFC and NFC team practices. The practices, which will be held Wednesday through Saturday, are free and open to the public, but fans can register for priority access here.

In addition to catching some of the NFL’s marquee players on the practice field, you can also attend the NFL Pro Bowl Experience, a family-friendly football fan festival at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex with interactive games and activities. There’s also the “taste of the town” tailgate which brings food trucks filled with selections from Disney’s theme parks and its best restaurants right into the center of all the action. Fans interested in exclusive access to Pro Bowl content and events should register for the NFL Fan Mobile Pass here.

At Epcot, football fans can earn a one-of-a-kind finisher medal at the inaugural NFL Pro Bowl 5K Run on Saturday morning. Spots are still available – register here.

At Disney Springs, you’re invited to a Pro Bowl Bash where NFL cheerleaders and team mascots will take over Disney Springs Marketplace on Saturday, from 4 – 7 p.m. ESPN Radio/ESPN2’s “Mike & Mike” show will broadcast live from Disney Springs on Thursday and Friday, from 6 – 10 a.m. ESPN’s “NFL Live” will also broadcast live from Disney Springs on Thursday and Friday, from 3 – 4 p.m. The broadcasts are open to the public, but seating is limited. Who knows, you may even see some of your favorite NFL players there too.

And at Magic Kingdom Park on Friday afternoon, four Pro Bowl team captains will take a trip down Main Street, U.S.A. during a special Pro Bowl parade with Mickey and his pals. If you can’t make it out for the parade, look for photos and video from it here on the Disney Parks Blog.

If you want to get in on the action and learn more about all of the NFL Pro Bowl activities happening this week or to purchase tickets for Sunday’s game at Camping World Stadium, visit www.NFL.com/ProBowl.

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

New Details on Disneyland’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout Ride

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 23, 2017

As you probably already know, the fun and thrilling Twilight Zone Tower of Terror ride at Disney California Adventure park was shut down at the beginning of this month, for its transformation into the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! Construction has already begun and Walt Disney Imagineering Executive Designer Joe Rohde and Chief Creative Officer of Marvel Entertainment Joe Quesada invited members of the press to take a tour of the attraction and provided them with some new details.

The comically high-energy, rocking new adventure begins with guests into a museum-like setting. It’s actually Taneleer Tivan’s collection, filled with amazing objects he obtained from across the universe. To keep visitors coming back again and again, it will be a living collection—something new added frequently—and stuffed with Easter Eggs. “There will be more Easter eggs in this ride than in any other ride at Disney,” Quesada told Nerdist.

What about the ride itself? “Rocket is your guide through this high-stakes caper and he needs your human hand scans to get him in so that he can breakout his fellow Guardians,” Nerdist reports. “Rocket isn’t one for thoughtful execution because his plan to shut down the generator, means creatures escape, elevators stop working, thus starting the adventure.” To ensure visitors don’t tire of it as well, “there will be multiple versions of the ride.”

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opens summer 2017 at Disney California Adventure park.

Top 5 secrets at the Walt Disney World Resorts!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 23, 2017

I’m back with some more secrets for you guys! Inside Walt Disney World there are 27 resorts, from lavished to compact there is a resort for every style, budget and taste.

Disney resorts are some of the most beautiful, most articulate and most thought out resorts. While you may have your favorite, or you might resort hop I am sure there are some things you have yet to see, there are secrets hidden in each resort, lets take a look at the top 5 secrets I found!

Beignets – If you are from the south then you know what these tasty treats are, me, being a New Yorker had no idea what I was in for when I made my way over to the ice cream/dessert section of Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarters quick service dining location. I was looking for something different and order these, 3 to an order figuring 6 would be too many! Oh man! These fried squares of dough smothered in powder sugar were delicious! Besides being my favorite resort now I have one extra bonus of staying there!
Cozy Fireplaces – You’ve been up since 6am, running around the theme park all day with the kids, you’re tired, your feet are sore and you just need to relax! Well have I got the place for you, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. If you head on up to the upper level you will find amazingly beautiful fireplaces to cozy in front of, get off your feet, sit back and just relax. This is another one of my favorite things to do while trying to relax after a busy day.
YeeHa Bob – YeeHa Bob Jackson is one of the reasons I love heading over to Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside, hanging out in the River Roost Lounge is a musician/comedian who loves to entertain. He plays the piano, tells jokes and loves to involve everyone in the fun!
Wishes From The Beach – Here is my favorite secret if you are staying at Disney’s Polynesian Resort and its after dark grab a blanket and head on down to the beach. You can sit there, enjoy a drink, or dole whip and watch the Wishes fireworks show. It is a great way to enjoy the show since you are already at your resort and there isn’t a crowd of people around you.
Stormalong Bay – Just as the last one was my favorite secret, this is my favorite pool! If you are lucky enough to be staying at Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort you will have use of this amazing pool, actually more like water park. There is a lazy river, a slide and tons of room to swim around. If you do stay here make sure you leave one day to spend at this super fun area of the resorts!

I hope you have enjoy these secrets that I shared with you, make sure you try the great ideas on this list on your next visit!

Do you have some hidden resort secret? Comment below!

Would you like to attend this year? Contact me, my name is Karen Asaro I’m a travel agent and a writer for Chip and Co. I visit Disney World as often as possible to keep up to date with the latest going on throughout the world, if I’m not there I am planning my next trip! Let me help you plan your next trip you can email me or visit me on facebook for all the latest info!

Minnie Hosted Fun Rock the Dots Event At Disney Springs In Honor of National Polka Dot Day

By

Lisette R

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January 23, 2017

I cannot think of a better way to celebrate National Polka Dot Day than with the Queen of Polka Dots herself; Minnie Mouse. Disney Springs sponsored Minnie Mouse as she hosted her Disney Springs Minnie Rocks the Dots Event on Sunday, January 22nd, in honor of National Polka Dot Day. From the Event Button and Event Flyer featuring Event-only discounts by Disney Springs vendors, to the Photo-Ops, Special Food Offerings, and Dance Party the Minnie Rocks the Dots Event was great fun for everyone.

The Minnie Rocks the Dots Buttons featured Minnie Mouse and the social media #ROCKtheDOTS surrounded by a circle of dots. The Event Flyer listed all of the vendors offering special discounts, merchandise, and gift with purchase options. The back of the Event Flyer sported pictures of some of the Minnie Mouse merchandise available for purchase.

Many of the store vendors offered percentage off a purchase. Many shops offered either a 20%, 15%, or 10% off purchase. Other shops offered gift with purchase options such as Kate Spade offering a pair of earrings, or a Kate Spade tote bag, with the purchase of any polka-dot item.

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One of our favorite things to do at Disney Events is to meet up with friends and take advantage of the fun photo-ops that are typically available. The Disney Springs Minnie Rocks the Dots Event had two options for Event photo-ops. We enjoyed having the Disney Photographers take our pictures so we could download them from our My Disney Experience Apps.

Another fun way to enjoy a Disney Event is to seek out foods specifically available for that event. Sprinkles Cupcakes featured a special red and white polka dot topping on three of their cupcakes. The options were the Red Velvet Cupcake, the Vanilla Milk Chocolate Cupcake, and the Vanilla Cupcake. Amorette’s Patisserie had the Minnie Mouse Pastry. This specialty pastry featured lemon chiffon cake, with strawberry mousse dots and chocolate pudding, and was only available for one weekend.

The absolute best part of the Disney Springs Minnie Rocks the Dots Event was the Dance Party hosted by Minnie Mouse. She graced us with her presence featuring four different ensembles. She stepped out periodically to change her outfit and each time she returned full of energy and ready to dance. All of her ensembles were fabulous but we particularly liked her classic red satin look. Minnie Mouse also enjoys taking Selfies with guests too!

The Disney Springs Minnie Rocks the Dots Event took place in the area I call the “tunnel” in Town Center heading towards Planet Hollywood and the Coca-Cola Store from the Lime Garage and the Resort Bus drop-off area. Prior to the start of the event, there were flags, a DJ stage, and lovely flowers placed on display to set the mood for festive fun. We are very hopeful that Minnie Mouse will host this fun Rock the Dots Event at Disney Springs to honor National Polka Dot Day again next year.

You can see our Part 1 Live Video from the Event here:

You can see our Part 2 Live Video from the Event here:

What do you think of Minnie Mouse hosting her Rock the Dots Event to honor National Polka Dot Day?

Please leave your comments in the box below.

Fall In Love With Joffrey’s Specialty Beverages Available Just In Time For Valentine’s Day

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Lisette R

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January 23, 2017

When traveling to Epcot during a Walt Disney World vacation, the place to go for Specialty Coffee beverages is the Joffrey’s Kiosks at Epcot’s World Showcase. Whether you prefer coffee, espresso, or latte there is something for every coffee drinker. You are sure to fall in love with the new Specialty Beverages available just in time for Valentine’s Day.

We are happy to announce that the Valentine’s Day Specialty Beverages are now available at the Joffrey’s Kiosks. All Signature Beverages are available hot or served over ice. Here is a list of these Valentine’s Day Specialty Beverages:

Cupid’s Kiss Latte~An espresso shot blended with caramel & coconut syrups, dark chocolate and creamy steamed milk. Cost is $5.39 for a 16 ounce serving.
Valentine’s White Mocha~A blend of espresso, white chocolate syrup, raspberry and creamy steamed milk. Cost is $5.39 for a 16 ounce serving.
Amore Cocoa Latte~ Espresso flavored with dark chocolate sauce,light coconut syrup and creamy steamed milk. Cost is $5.39 for a 16 ounce serving.

Looking for something with a little more heat? You can add Bailey’s Irish Cream, Grey Goose Vodka, Kahlua or Jameson Irish Whiskey. Cost for a Specialty Beverage with an add-on is $9.49. Stop by a Joffrey’s Kiosk to witness the fine art of Specialty Coffee Beverage Blending and fall in love with their new Valentine’s Day Specialty Beverages.

Which Joffrey’s Valentine’s Day Specialty Beverage will you try? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Show off Your Disney Level with this Disney Squad Goals Tee

By

Danielle

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January 22, 2017

Many of us wish upon a star to have the perfect crew to hang out with, well I can’t think of any squad more perfect than the Sensational Six! Show off your dream crew with this Disney Squad Goals Tee by AllThingsCuteDecals featuring Mickey and the gang. I think #SQUADGOALS sums it up perfectly.

Squad Goals are Disney level with this tee! I don’t know about you, but I wish my squad was Mickey and pals every day. You can get this tee in a variety of colors with different options in design colors. The shirts are a v-neck style, which I love and find super comfy. The designer makes these shirts with love and a little bit of pixie dust, special for you. The little Mickey emoji at the end seals the deal perfectly!

Does this Disney Squad Goals Tee embody your squad level wishes?

Central Florida on a Tornado watch until 10pm

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 22, 2017

Central Florida counties have been issued a tornado watch until 10 p.m.

The National Weather Service is warning that the strong storms which have been traveling through the regional have caused favorable conditions for a Tornado, although unusually for this time of year.

The strongest part of the storm should hit between 8-9pm. They can expect heavy rain, hail, constant lightning and winds of 40-50 mph along with gusts of up to 80 mph are expected as the sun goes down.

Although the entire state of Florida will see storms the counties most affected will include Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Volusia and Brevard.

Gov. Rick Scott asks that everyone keep alert and continue to check the news for updates. Meteorologists suggest having multiple ways to check the weather other than the TV in case the single is lost during the storm.

Brevard County has activated their Emergency Operations Center and Seminole County plans to open at 6 p.m.

In 2007 Lake, Sumter and Volusia counties there was a violent storm that left 21 people dead and dozens of others injured leaving hundreds of homes and businesses destroyed or damaged and more than $200 million in damage.

*update at 6:43pm: there is a tornado warning for Orange and Lake counties until 6:45pm

Photo credit: weather.com

Disney-ABC Television Group Names Robert Langer CFO

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 22, 2017

Robert Langer has been named executive vice president and chief financial officer of Disney/ABC Television Group. He follows Peter Seymour, who announced in November that he would retire following 20 years at the company.

In his new role, Langer will oversee financial leadership, strategy, and business development for a portfolio that includes the ABC Television Network, ABC Studios, ABC Owned Station Group, Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior, Disney-ABC Home Entertainment and Television Distribution, Radio Disney, and Freeform. Langer also will help manage Disney-ABC’s interests in A+E Networks and Hulu

“A superb financial manager and strategist with deep roots in The Walt Disney Company, Robert is a proven leader and problem solver who brings broad domestic business experience and deep knowledge of the international marketplace,” said Ben Sherwood, co-chair, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney-ABC Television. “Robert is a strong addition to the Disney-ABC leadership team, and we are all delighted to welcome him back to Southern California.”

Langer previously led all Disney operations and businesses within Germany, Switzerland, Austria as the Walt Disney Company’s country manager for the region. He joined Disney in 1999, serving initially as as director, business development, global licensing. Prior to joining Disney, he worked for the Boston Consulting Group and ART Concerts Company.

“I’ve long been impressed with the Disney-ABC business, and I’m thrilled to be given this new opportunity and excited about the prospects,” said Langer. “I look forward to not only working with the talented financial, strategy and business development teams, but also collaborating with colleagues across the group’s channels and brands to grow and evolve our businesses.”

Rock the Dots with a Polka Dotted Minnie Mouse Bed Set

By

Danielle

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January 22, 2017

It’s National Polka Dot Day, and what better way to celebrate than rocking the dots with the one and only Minnie Mouse! I’ll look for any excuse to redecorate, so I thought this Polka Dotted Minnie Mouse Bed Set was so perfect for a kid or teen’s bedroom!

Transform any bedroom with this glamorous and trendy Minnie mouse ‘Minnie Dots’ super soft microfiber sheet set. Each 4 piece, super soft microfiber full sheet set includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet and two standard reversible pillowcases. The bold colors and exciting design will enhance the existing decor of any bedroom. They would be perfect for any kids, teens, or guest bedroom. These are made for a full size bed, oh the struggle to find Minnie Mouse for queen and king sizes!

Would you rock the dots with a Polka Dotted Minnie Mouse Bed Set?

First Look at the all new Stargazers Bar outside of Planet Hollywood in Disney Springs

By

Chip

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January 22, 2017

Some of the walls are down at Planet Hollywood in Disney Springs and we can now see the signage for Stargazers Bar!

As you can see in the photos everything is all shiny and chrome.

Stargazers has a nice view of the Disney Springs Lagoon.

Earlier this week we shared news how Planet Hollywood has cancelled some advanced dining reservations due to construction delays.

We are uncertain when the Grand Opening is but as soon as we get word we will let you know!

Epcot’s Canada Pavilion Adds Two New Totem Poles and Refurbishes Original

By

Lisette R

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January 22, 2017

The Totem Pole at the Canada Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase was in dire need of an update. Disney decided to take the update two steps further. Epcot’s Canada Pavilion has added not one, but two, new Totem Poles in addition to repainting, and refurbishing, the original.

The first new Totem Pole stands proudly at the top of the accessibility ramp where it meets the top of the staircase. It looks magnificent and its placement does not block the view of the main Canada building.

The second totem pole is set a bit further back near the second set of stairs leading up to the main Canada Pavilion building. When I spoke with a Cast Member at the Canada Pavilion, she referred to the area housing the two new totem poles as the “garden area.”

The new Totem Poles were hand carved and painted by Northwest Coast Tsimshian Artist David Boxley. We were sad to discover that we missed the Totem Pole Dedication Ceremony this weekend. The original Totem Pole looks splendid now that it has been refurbished, repainted and updated. The paint has brightened up its look for sure and the two additional Totem Poles have maintained similar color schemes as well.

What do you think of the new Totem Poles gracing the grounds of the World Showcase Canada Pavilion? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Artsy Photo-Ops Allow You To Be Part Of A Masterpiece Painting During Epcot’s International Festival Of The Arts

By

Lisette R

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January 22, 2017

Have you ever looked at people in a painting and wondered what may have inspired the artist to paint that particular moment on canvas? Now you can imagine being one of the characters in a famous painting by placing yourself into the painting. The artsy photo-ops around World Showcase allow you to be part of a Masterpiece Painting during Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts.

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The America Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase is hosting the photo-op for Artist Emmanuel Leutze’s George Washington Crossing Delaware. Of course, if you are traveling alone, it will just be you and George Washington crossing the Delaware but it is quite fun.

Between Italy and Germany you will find a really fun Artsy photo-op spot. Here you place yourself into the artwork as the characters depicted in the paintings. Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is one of the painting options. The idea is to try your best to hold that Mona Lisa smile for your photo. The other side of this photo-op spot features Edvard Munch’s Scream. You are given the picture, behind the wall of the photo-op spot, to try your best to pose with a frozen Scream. This was really a great photo-op location. Be sure to have the photographer double-check that your photos are loaded onto your band. Not sure what happened but my photos from this photo-op spot were never loaded to My Disney Experience account.

Whether you are jumping in as an extra for Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s Luncheon of the Boating Party (located near the International Gateway), riding in a boat with George Washington in Emmanuel Leutze’s George Washington Crossing Delaware, holding a smile in Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, or holding a silent scream in Edvard Munch’s Scream you are sure to find just the right part for yourself. There are no really serious moments in paintings as these visions on canvas are derived from the imaginative minds of the Artists themselves. Be sure to strike a pose for these Artsy photo ops that allow you to become part of a Masterpiece Painting during the 2017 inaugural Epcot International Festival of the Arts.

Which Artsy photo op Masterpiece Paining will you choose to become part of? Please leave your comments in the box below.