‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’ Hopes For $250 Million At Global Box Office This Weekend

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May 4, 2017

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2“, The sequel to 2014’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” is opening this weekend, domestically, and has already earned well over $100 million overseas. It made more than $106 million in its first weekend at 58% of overseas territories, and has picked up more since then. But with international holdover, and new territories abroad and in North America, the super hero flick should kick off the summer box office this weekend to quite possibly $250 million. Its predicted domestic earnings alone should make up between $140 million and $170 million of the total, if not more.

Last weekend “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” made good money from overseas territories including the U.K. ($15.5 million), Australia ($11.6 million) and Germany ($8.3 million). But several key locations will be added to the roster this go-around including Korea on May 3, Russia and Argentina on May 4, China on May 5, and Japan on May 12.

Like the first movie, “Guardians 2” stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, and Bradley Cooper as a band of misfit super heroes. James Gunn returned to direct the film from his own script, as opposed to the first which he co-wrote with Nicole Perlman. Gunn is already attached to write and direct the third “Guardians” movie.

Give Yourself to the Dark Side, We Have Death Star Waffles.

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Danielle

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May 4, 2017

It’s no secret that I love themed foods, and I also love Star Wars. So you know I squealed the first time I saw the
Star Wars Death Star Waffle Maker. Nothing says join the dark side better than a plate of warm Death Star Waffles, right?

Sure there’s the Mickey and Minnie Mouse waffle makers, and even an Olaf and a Vader one, but the Death Star Waffle Maker makes such perfectly round waffles! You can secretly trick people into joining the Dark Side by slipping one of these fun waffles onto their plate. I know this would be the perfect gift for myself or any other Star Wars fan to enjoy the officially licensed sweet, crunchy goodness of the Dark Side. I think I need two kitchens, a Mickey themed one and a Star Wars themed one. I think my husband would be okay with that… probably… maybe… okay, a girl can dream!

The secret of the Death Star was that it looked like one thing, but it was technically another. It looked like a moon hanging there in space, but we know that secretly it was actually a space station. Waffles are a lot like that, too. They look like dessert, all covered with strawberries and whipped cream and chocolate chips and powdered sugar and syrup (well, maybe not all of those at once), but they’re technically breakfast. Booyah.

If you’re ready to make your kitchen explode with awesome, you need a Death Star Waffle Maker. Plug it in, warm it up, and pour the batter onto the non-stick cooking plates. In just minutes, you’ll have golden, delicious waffles, good enough to destroy a planet for. Well, a small one, at least.

And if one side turns out a little funny with bubbles or you overcook it and there’s a Dark Side, just flip it over. There’s a Concave Dish Composite Beam Superlaser indentation on both cooking plates, so you’re covered. And both sides have pockets for your tasty toppings. Just keep in mind when you break out the syrup that it’s likely to do its own version of the trench run.

So are you willing to join the Dark Side of breakfast with Death Star Waffles , or are you still holding out hope that someone will create a Yoda themed waffle maker?

Some Area Residents Unhappy with the Recent ‘Happily Ever After’ Fireworks Testing

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

Area news stations are reporting that some local residents were not thrilled with the early morning testing of Magic Kingdom’s new “Happily Ever After” Fireworks Show. In preparation for the trial run of the new show, Disney had put up signs at the resorts to let guests know that fireworks testing would take place on Tuesday evening between 11:45pm and 1:00am. Area residents complained that the testing was loud and went beyond 1:00am. Some residents took to social media to voice their frustration, including a post that read: “Somebody needs to teach the rat how to tell time. It’s 1:30 now.” A Disney spokesperson told local news station FOX 35 any further testing of the “Happily Ever After” fireworks will be done earlier. She said Disney regrets any inconvenience they may have caused.

Magic Kingdom’s current nighttime spectacular, “Wishes,” will wrap up its last performance on Thursday, May 11. Magic Kingdom is expecting heavier than normal crowds to say goodbye to “Wishes” and to welcome “Happily Ever After”. To accommodate the extra guests, Disney is opening up an additional viewing area in the cast member parking lot located next to the Main Street bypass (behind Tomorrowland) on May 6, 11, 12, and 13th. It is possible that the backstage bypass, located between Main Street and Adventureland, will also be opened for guests if crowd levels get high enough. It is unknown at this time if Disney will be charging for parking at these locations.

“Happily Ever After” will debut on Friday, May 12. Unlike Wishes, this show will feature projection mapping, lasers, searchlights, and a brand new fireworks display. Click here to see some amazing photos of the new show as well as a video sneak peek of the new fireworks show.

Join the Chip and Co. Facebook page for a live broadcast on May 11 of the final performance of “Wishes.” Tune in a little before 9:00pm EST and say goodbye to a little piece of Disney history.

Planning a visit to Walt Disney World? Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

Interested in a trip to see the new “Happily Ever After” Fireworks Spectacular? 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) 977-3373. Join me on Facebook for the latest Disney updates and tips.

Sources: WFTV9 and Fox35

Even More Information on Banshee Connect Experience

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

We can’t get enough of these adorable Banshees that will soon be available to purchase at Pandora – The World of Avatar when it opens on May 27th. You will find these adorable birds at the Rookery inside Windtraders, Pandora’s primary merchandise location.

Disney is known for bringing stories to life from their attractions through creative and innovative product design. Banshees are an important animal on Pandora, both as an animal in the ecosystem and as a cultural symbol to the Na’vi. Banshees are a part of one of the signature attractions which makes them the perfect must-have souvenir from a visit to Pandora. These banshees are fun, interactive, and continue the excitement guests will feel when experiencing Avatar Flight of Passage.

At the Rookery, a Naturalist from Alpha Centauri Expeditions will assist guests with identifying a favorite banshee from among 10 unique styles. Each interactive banshee includes three ranges of motion – mouth, head, and wings that are controlled by hand. Guests will also hear them make authentic banshee sounds provided by Disney’s partners at Lightstorm Entertainment. The banshees bright vivid colors were inspired by the movie Avatar. Guests will determine their mountain banshee’s personality through hand movements and sound, making each banshee unique.

Guests can either display a banshee on their shoulder or cradle them in their arms. Disney will also offer a banshee perch that will be sold separately. The cost of your very own mountain banshee is $49.95. Pandora – The World of Avatar is opening May 27th at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

I can’t wait to get my hands on my very own Banshee. In fact, I’m nagging Chip to get me one when he Previews Pandora – The World of Avatar on May 12th. He hasn’t agreed yet, but comment below and maybe you can help me talk him into it!

Thinking about a Magical Disney Vacation? As a contributor to Chip and Co. and an agent with MickeyTravels, LLC, I’d love to help you save time and money planning your next Disney vacation. My services are always FREE! Send me a message or email me at [email protected] and let’s start planning today. Follow me on Facebook for the latest Disney tips and tricks.

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Limited Edition Princess Leia MagicBand 2 Released Today

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

Happy Star Wars Day! In honor of May the 4th, a new limited release Star Wars Princess Leia MagicBand 2 became available today. The MagicBand includes images of both Princess Leia Organa and R2-D2.

They are available both in the parks and online at the Disney Store for $27.99

MagicBands, when connected to My Disney Experience, can serve as a guest’s theme park ticket, allows access to FastPass+ selections, acts as a guest’s PhotoPass card, as well as their Disney resort room key.

Planning a visit to Walt Disney World? Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

Want more help planning your next Disney trip? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I can put together customized itineraries, book your advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation and much much more! And did I mention my services are always FREE? Get in touch at 1.800.454.4501, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Source/Image Credit : Disney Store

Celebrate Mom on Mother’s Day at Walt Disney World with these Delicious Offerings

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

Still looking for the perfect brunch or treat to give Mom for Mother’s Day? Look no further than Main Street U.S.A. and Walt Disney World!

Some options for brunch at Walt Disney World on this special day include:

Boma – Flavors of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is hosting a Mother’s Day brunch from 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. some favorites from the dinner menu are added to the buffet, and breakfast include one mimosa per adult.
Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort is offering a Mother’s Day character brunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. with a Bloody Mary bar and generous buffet.
Next door at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, the Mother’s day brunch is from 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. with a holiday buffet.
The Wave . . . Of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will host a buffet Mother’s Day brunch from 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Garden Grove Mother’s Day Character Brunch Buffet will be 7 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Walt Disney World Swan.
Disney Vacation Club Members can book a Mother’s Day Brunch at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in the Fantasia Ballroom. Inspired by the Disney animated film “Tarzan” (and the film’s song, “You’ll Be in My Heart”), the brunch is 11 a.m-1 p.m. and can be reserved by calling 800-800-9800. Includes special entertainment. Members can also visit www.dvcmembershipextras.com for more details.

And here are some options for some sweet treats:

For something sweet, Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom Park is offering a Magic Kingdom Mother’s Day chocolate raspberry cupcake.
Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort has a triple chocolate cupcake just for mom with an edible Mother’s Day plaque for decoration.

Click here for special offerings and savings at Disney Springs for Mother’s Day!

What are your plans for Mother’s Day? It’s never too late to plan a last minute trip to Disney World! Fill out the form below form below 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 1.954.401.9577, via email at [email protected], or follow along on Facebook.

Disney’s Broadway Hits Coming To ‘Broadway HD’

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

Are you a Disney fan that will never have the chance to see a Disney Theatrical production, simply because they don’t have access to live theater? BroadwayHD wants to help share the magic of Disney with fans all over the world.

Starting on May 15, fans everywhere will have access to Disney’s Broadway Hits at Royal Albert Hall whenever and wherever they are, through BroadwayHD. This phenomenal concert brought Disney casts together to perform some of the best musical numbers from Disney musicals (there’s even a “Frozen” sneak peek!).

Celebrate over two decades of stunning Disney theatrical shows and the show-stopping performances that include hits performed by the cast of “Aladdin” on the West End and performances by Ashley Brown and Scarlett Strallen who both played the title character in “Mary Poppins”, respectively on Broadway and the West End. Rounding out the all-star cast are legendary Oscar-winning composer and performer Alan Menken and a host of Broadway favorites, including Merle Dandridge (“Tarzan” on Broadway), Alton Fitzgerald White (“The Lion King” on Broadway) and Josh Strickland (“Tarzan” on Broadway). Bonus: Get a sneak peek preview of Frozen’s “Let It Go,” before it hits Broadway stages in spring 2018.

Check it out on May 15th and let us know what you think!

“Freaky Friday” Musical Could Be Coming To TV

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

Disney’s “Freaky Friday” musical is looking to leap from the stage to the small screen.

Playbill reports that casting notice indicated that the show is being adapted for television and will shoot this fall. The book for the musical was written by Bridget Carpenter and the score was penned by Tom Kitt and Kevin Yorkey.

Freaky Friday is currently playing the Cleveland Playhouse through May 20th and is slated to run at the Alley Theatre in Houston, Texas from June 2nd to July 2nd.

A cast recording for the show is also available.

Paradiso 37 Disney Springs Spices Things Up For Cinco de Mayo 2017

By

Lisette R

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May 4, 2017

Cinco de Mayo falls on a Friday this year, and that makes it the perfect time to get out and enjoy fabulous food, great atmosphere, lively music, and a few adult beverages. Paradiso 37 is spicing things up with some fabulous menu items just in time for Cinco de Mayo 2017. Here is our review of some of the items sampled during Media Preview Night at Paradiso 37.

Upon entering Paradiso 37, I was directed to a table overlooking the water. Although it was quite warm with the open-air table seating, the sun was setting and the air cooled down after that.

The Sampling Menu for the event promised to have some great food and beverage options.

Live entertainment was offered on the outdoor patio. While it was warm outside, the patio is a great spot for an evening of dancing and beverages.

The evening started with a beverage choice of a glass of wine, a 29 Degree Draft Beer, or a Sangria Margarita. The 29 Degree Draft Beer is perfect for folks who enjoy a nice cold beer. The Sangria Margarita was the most popular beverage of choice, and with good reason! This visually appealing beverage is made with Red Sangria and Red Wine, Paradiso 37 Premium Tequila, Brandy, Triple Sec, Pomegranate, Fresh Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice and Guava Juice. The Sangria Margarita Cocktail is sure to be a big seller during Cinco de Mayo this weekend!

Chef Mo is very knowledgable about the foods he plans and prepares for the Paradiso 37 Disney Springs menu. He did a fantastic job with the food choices for the Cinco de Mayo Media Preview Night.

The food samplings started with House-made Guacamole, which was fresh and delicious, Salsa, and Tortilla Chips. The Shrimp Ceviche, one of my personal favorite samplings, offered a nice kick of spicy flavor and paired beautifully with the gluten-free Tortilla Chips. Paradiso 37 Nachos were what you would expect from loaded nachos with cheese sauce, chili con carne, lettuce, tomato and jalapenos. Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas were warm with melted cheese and a great flavor. I highly recommend the Fire-Roasted South American Crazy Corn. This delectable meal addition is a corn-on-the-cob and melted cheese combination that is simply spectacular. The meal portion ended with Baja Fish Tacos topped with an amazing Cilantro-Lime Crema…or so I thought!

Chef Mo surprised us by sending out three new menu items. The slow-roasted BBQ Pork Ribs were tender and flavorful. They were paired with Apple Jicama Cabbage Coleslaw and Wasabi Fries. If you have never tried Wasabi Fries, and you enjoy your food with a bit of a kick like I do, then these are for you. This particular dish will be featured this year, by Chef Mo and his team, at Epcot for the annual Party For The Senses Event during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. When I think of Cinco de Mayo the word ‘jalapeno’ definitely comes to mind. Paradiso 37 is featuring a Jalapeno Guacamole Pico de Gallo Burger served on a white and black Sesame Seed Brioche Bun and paired with Truffle Fries. The Argentinian Skirt Steak with Caramelized Onions,Chimichurri and fries, while not the favorite of the three, was loaded with flavor.

The all-new Mojito Cart features fresh ingredients to create a Mojito for you right at your table. Fresh Mint is one of the key ingredients in a Mojito and this adult beverage did not disappoint on flavor.

See our Mojito Cart Video here:

As if the food and beverages were not enough, we were now moving on to desserts! There were Churros with Chocolate and Caramel Dipping Sauces, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Tres Leche, and the gluten-free Flourless Chocolate Stack. All the choices were excellent with the Tres Leche being my personal favorite due to its combination of strawberry and coconut.

Lauren, of Rockaway PR Events, is awesome and did a fabulous job of pulling us all together for this fabulous Pre-Cinco de Mayo Event. Felix, Sales and Marketing Manager for Boulevard Restaurants, was friendly, easy to speak with, and was also very knowledgable of the Paradiso 37 Menu.

Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Paradiso 37 during Cinco de Mayo weekend. Paradiso 37 Disney Springs is certainly spicing things up for Cinco de Mayo 2017. According to Chef Mo, the party will be going on all weekend. Even if you are pressed for time, you must stop in for a Sangria Margarita, some House-made Guacamole with Tortilla Chips, and Fire-Roasted South American Crazy Corn. Your taste buds will thank you!

Are you ready to check out Paradiso 37 during their Cinco de Mayo Weekend? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Canadian Resident Discounts make Disney’s Pandora, a Must See!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

Disney’s Pandora – The World of Avatar is the place to be for Canadian residents, this Summer. Opening May 27th as one of the Walt Disney World Resorts biggest park expansions ever; Pandora, along with the Rivers of Light, is bringing life, after dark, to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. With the latest Canadian Resident Discounts, you won’t want to miss out!

With Disney’s current offer, Canadian residents can purchase a four-day park ticket for $244 USD (plus tax) for a savings of 34%. Looking for a longer stay? 5 – 10 day tickets are also available at a 35% savings! This offer has been extended until May 20th, combine that with Disney’s Summer Expedition Offer and you could be among the first to visit Pandora – The World of Avatar, at a great discount! The Summer Expedition deal offers up to 25% off rooms at select Walt Disney World resorts, valid most nights May 28th – Aug 31st 2017, when booked by July 14th.

Not only can Canadian residents take advantage of these great offers, but for a limited-time only Disney has released nightly Extra Magic Hours. These Extra Magic Hours will run from 11pm – 1am, allowing resort guests to get the most out of their Pandora experience.

Modeled after James Cameron’s ‘Avatar,’ Disney’s Pandora will bring two new main attractions to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Calling adventure seekers, climb aboard a mountain banshee and soar above Pandora on Avatar, Flight of Passage. If you’re looking for a more serene experience, travel to the Valley of Mo’ara and float through Pandora’s breathtaking, bio-luminescent rainforest, on Na’vi River Journey.

After your adventures, be sure to stop by Pongu Pongu (meaning Party Party) for a unique beverage experience or immerse yourself in the art and culture of the Na’vi as you enjoy lunch, or dinner, at the Satu’li Canteen.

images copyright: Disney

Do you want to be among the first to visit Pandora? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner with MickeyTravels, LLC, I can save you money and time planning your MAGICAL vacation! My planning services are always 100% FREE! Contact me today for your FREE, no obligation quote, shannon@mickeytravels.com or follow me on Facebook for the latest Disney updates, deals, and travel tips!

Additional Viewing Areas Available For Guests To See Last “Wishes” Performance

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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May 4, 2017

“Wishes”, the Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectacular will have its last performance on Thursday May 11th. This beloved show, hosted by Jiminy Cricket and the Blue Fairy, has been warming our hearts for almost 14 years. The new Magic Kingdom nighttime show called “Happily Ever After” will start the following evening, Friday May 12th. Unlike Wishes, this show will have projection mapping, lasers, searchlights, and of course fireworks!

Magic Kingdom is expecting heavier than normal crowds to say goodbye to “Wishes” and to welcome “Happily Ever After”. To accommodate the extra guests, Disney is opening up an additional viewing area in the cast member parking lot located next to the Main Street bypass (behind Tomorrowland) on May 6, 11, 12, and 13th. It is possible that the backstage bypass, located between Main Street and Adventureland, will also be opened for guests if crowd levels get high enough. It is unknown at this time if Disney will be charging for parking at these locations.

If you won’t be lucky enough to see the last performance of Wishes in person, join the Chip and Co. Facebook page for a live broadcast on May 11th. Tune in a little before 9 PM Eastern and say goodbye to a little piece of Disney history.

Final Performance of Wishes LIVE at the Magic Kingdom

The next night, May 12th, we will have a live broadcast of the first ever performance of “Happily Ever After”. Join us on the Chip and Co. Facebook page a little before 9 PM Eastern to see the next chapter of the Magic Kingdom’s story.

First Show of Happily Ever After LIVE at the Magic Kingdom

Planning a visit to Walt Disney World? Fill out our form below to receive your FREE quote.

Want more help planning your next Disney trip? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I can put together customized itineraries, book your advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation and much much more! And did I mention my services are always FREE? Get in touch at 1.800.454.4501, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Source Credit: Orlando Park News

Photo Credit: Disney

Awwwweee, Guardians of the Galaxy Inspired Groot Earrings!

By

Danielle

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May 3, 2017

I loved Groot from the first Guardians of the Galaxy movie, but I loved baby Groot at the end even more! I was wrong thinking Groot couldn’t get any cuter, until I saw the previews for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and saw the super adorable toddler like Groot. These Groot Earrings from CloudNineDreams on Etsy, totally capture that cuteness!

These Guardians of the Galaxy inspired earrings feature Groot looking as adorable as ever. These are great to wear on a night out to see the new movie. If you’re a Marvel girl like me, they are perfect for any occasion! These woodsy looking earrings are made of a light weight material, and come with 3 different earring options. You can get them as a dangle, a post, or a sterling silver post. My ears are sensitive to heavy earrings, so I really appreciate when I can find cute character inspired earrings that won’t weigh me down.

The earrings also come in two different styles, dressed in the burgundy colored suit, or au natural.

Aren’t these Groot Earrings just the cutest little things this side of the Galaxy? I know they’ve stolen my heart!