Celebrate in Style with A Very Disney Christmas To you Tee Shirt

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December 5, 2016

Have you chosen your perfect outfits for Christmas yet? Yea, I know I’m still working on it too! I think this “A Very Disney Christmas To You” raglan tee shirt by MouseApparel would be super adorable with a festive pair of leggings though!

This cheerful and merry tee features the phrase “A Very Disney Christmas to You” in a swirly font in the shape of a Christmas tree, in a vibrant green. Instead of ornaments accenting the tree, we’ve got bold red Mickey heads adorning the swirling phrase. A shimmery gold star tops it all off!

This and other cute Disney Christmas Tees are available from Mouse Apparel:

A Very Disney Christmas To You
Best Christmas Ever
It’s the most wonderful time to wear ears
And of course we can’t forget the ever popular “I’m Done Adulting Where’s Disney” Original Mouse Apparel Tee!

I hope you have A Very Very Disney Christmas too!

“The BFG” – Blu-Ray Review

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 5, 2016

The BFG is the wonderful, magical tale, adapted from the beloved Roald Dahl book, and directed by Steven Spielberg. I did not get the opportunity to see The BFG when it was in the theaters, so it was my delight when I received a copy to review!

Besides the film, which is lovely, the Blu-Ray comes with some terrific bonus features:

Bringing The BFG To Light:
A half hour mini documentary following Ruby Barnhill’s (“Sophie”) video diary that she made while filming the movie. It trails the making of the film from pre-vis, to the costumes, to the final effects, and everything in between.

The Big Friendly Giant And Me:
An animated tale from the drawings left of The BFG’s first friend.

Gobblefunk: The Wonderful Words Of The BFG:
A fun little featurette explaining the special language of The BFG

Giants 101:
The group of 9 giants; Who they are and how they came to life

Melissa Mathison, A Tribute:
This is the story and life of the beloved screenwriter, Melissa Mathison. Dear friend and colleague of Steven Spielberg, who passed away before the completion of this, her last film.

The BFG is the perfect gift to give to any family member or film buff who is on your holiday list. You should add it to your collection!

Here are some clips from the movie for you to enjoy.

Main Street Electrical Parade Returns to Disneyland

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 5, 2016

As sad as we were to see Main Street Electrical Parade parade leave Walt Disney World, we’re excited to know that we can still see it at Disneyland Resort. Disney announced that the Main Street Electrical Parade will make it’s return to Disneyland Resort for a Limited Time engagement:

This encore performance at Disneyland park will run nightly until June 18 – that’s 45 years after it first lit up Main Street, U.S.A., in 1972! During this limited-time celebration, guests will also enjoy special merchandise and food offerings inspired by the Main Street Electrical Parade – we’ll have more to share on those very soon.

Want to celebrate the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade in style? Join us on January 19 for a special, after-hours premiere event and be among the first to experience the return of this beloved parade. After the park closes, premiere event ticket holders will enjoy a night of exclusive access to most Disneyland park attractions and select restaurants, featuring a special performance of the Main Street Electrical Parade ahead of its official debut to the public. Tickets go on sale for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders tomorrow, Dec. 6, and to the general public on December 13. Information will be available on Disneyland.com beginning tomorrow.

Join us in January as we welcome the Main Street Electrical Parade home to Disneyland park for a limited time!

Will you be making a trip to see MSEP while it’s at Disneyland?

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, 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.

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2017’ Expands New Year’s Countdown to New Orleans With First-Ever Live Central Time Zone Countdown

By

Chip

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December 5, 2016

“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2017” marks the continued expansion of the iconic annual New Year’s Eve tradition with coverage from New Orleans, Louisiana, in its first-ever Central Time Zone countdown. The live segments will include exclusive performances from the Allstate Fan Fest, where New Orleans locals and tourists gather annually to celebrate the New Year and usher in the annual Allstate Sugar Bowl , and interviews leading up to the midnight countdown and stunning fleur-de- lis drop near Jackson Square to ring in the New Year.

Ryan Seacrest will lead the traditional countdown to midnight live from New York City, with actress and comedian Jenny McCarthy in Times Square, and superstar Fergie returning to host the Billboard Hollywood Party in Los Angeles. New Orleans joins the largest celebration of the year, airing on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, beginning at 8:00 p.m. EST, on the ABC Television Network.

“Known for its vibrant culture and deep musical roots, New Orleans is the ideal choice to host our first-ever Central Time Zone countdown,” said Mike Mahan, president, dick clark productions. “We are excited to expand our tradition of ringing in the New Year to the ‘Big Easy.’”

“We are thrilled to kick off 2017 by showcasing our amazing culture to the rest of the world as we broadcast the Central Time Zone New Year’s Eve celebrations happening in New Orleans and around the state of Louisiana,” said Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “This past year was challenging for our wonderful state, but we remain a world class destination ready to celebrate a New Year and welcome visitors from around the globe! We look forward to opening our doors to the world!

“New Orleans is a great match for ‘Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin Eve with Ryan Seacrest’,” said Mayor Mitch Landrieu. “We know how to celebrate, and we offer the world one of the most authentic cultural experiences anywhere! We are proud to help our country bring in the New Year.”

This year marks the 45 th anniversary of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2017” and will feature 5½ hours of special performances and reports on New Year’s celebrations from around the globe, with performance acts in New York, New Orleans and Los Angeles. As previously announced, Mariah Carey, DNCE, Thomas Rhett and Gloria Estefan with the cast of her Broadway musical ON YOUR FEET! will perform for over one million fans live in Times Square with millions more on TV. The Billboard Hollywood Party will be hosted by Fergie with additional performers to be announced soon.

The Allstate ® Fan Fest will serve as the backdrop for “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2017” in New Orleans. For the past eleven years, Allstate has taken over New Orleans before the Allstate ® Sugar Bowl ® by hosting family-friendly games and activities, pep rallies and musical performances.

“Dick Clark’s New Years Rockin Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2017” is produced by dick clark productions with Ryan Seacrest, Allen Shapiro and Mike Mahan serving as executive producers andBarry Adelman and Mark Bracco as co-executive producers. Larry Klein is producer.

The addition of the Central Time Zone celebration in New Orleans is made possible through collaborations between the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Allstate ® Sugar Bowl ® and the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.

The complete lineup Saturday night, December 31, on ABC is:

8:00-10:00 p.m. EST – “DICK CLARK’S PRIMETIME NEW YEAR’S ROCKIN’ EVE WITH RYAN SEACREST 2017 – Part 1”
10:00-11:00 p.m. EST – “DICK CLARK’S PRIMETIME NEW YEAR’S ROCKIN’ EVE WITH RYAN SEACREST 2017 – Part 2”
11:30 p.m.-1:09 a.m. EST – “DICK CLARK’S NEW YEAR’S ROCKIN’ EVE WITH RYAN SEACREST 2017 – Part 1
1:09-2:13 a.m. EST – “DICK CLARK’S NEW YEAR’S ROCKIN’ EVE WITH RYAN SEACREST 2017– Part 2”

Disney DIY – Holiday Time Fun with A Disney Twist

By

Catie

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December 5, 2016

It’s December, and you know what THAT means – CHRISTMAS season is upon us! The turkey has been carved, the stuffing demolished, and now it’s time to get in that Santa-Y spirit! If you think it’s too early to turn on the Christmas Pandora – just remember- Holiday decorations at Walt Disney World have been up since early November! So, that proves that it’s not too early to deck the halls – DISNEY style of course!

Check out my Disney Christmas DIY’s to help get you started:

These Super festive Mickey (And Minnie!) Christmas Ball Ornaments would make the perfect addition to your tree!
(Directions courtesy of Dolled Up Design

Supplies
Plastic Christmas Balls (2 small “ears” and 1 large “head” for each ornament)
Sharp knife and cutting board
Permanent marker
Hot glue gun
Bows – for Minnies!

Directions

1. Using a sharp knife, begin by cutting the ornament hanging ends off each of the smaller balls. This will allow your ears to sit flat onto the “heads”.
2. Using a permanent marker, mark out two small spots equal distance from the hanging part of each large “head” ball. My balls had a line running along the middle that I drew mine along so everything was nice and even.
4. Run a bead of hot glue around where you trimmed off the pieces on the “ear” balls. Stick onto the “head” where you have marked out each of the spots with the marker and hold until glue has adhered.
5. If making a Minnie ornament, hot glue a small bow between the ears.
5. Hang and Enjoy!

These Adorable Stockings could not be easier (or more affordable!) to make – a few bucks each and you have a super cute stocking to hang by the chimney with care! Just grab some felt (I recommend the stiffer sheets of felt for the head/ear portion as they will stand up more easily on their own) and your glue gun and get crafting!
Personalization tip: Use puffy paint to write out each person’s name on the upper white portion of the completed “Mouse” Stocking

Ok, so here’s a kid friendly (edible!) craft that is perfect for winter (and for Frozen lovers!) – plus it makes the perfect holiday party activity! And bonus – they could not be easier to put together!

Olaf DIY Snowman Kit
(Directions courtesy of The It Mom

Ingredients (for each baggie):
2-Pretzel sticks (Arms)
2-Raisins (Eyes)
1-Candy corn (Nose)
1-Large marshmallow (Lower body)
1-Medium marshmallow (Upper body)
White icing (to glue it all together)
*Get the printable topper for the baggies here

Directions:
Allow them to use their creativity skills to build their own snowmen. I would start with removing the contents from the plastic bag and encourage kids to create their snowmen on top of the plastic bag (trust me, it’s easier and quicker to clean up this way).

Want more?
Afterward, grab a white plate or white poster board and sprinkle white powdered sugar around it and place the snowmen for display! You can even take it a step further by bringing out the Legos to create their own city or neighborhood they can build around their snowmen.

Ok – so I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to crank up the Christmas tunes and get crafting! Tis the season, after all…

Kali River Rapids Alters Operating Hours

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 5, 2016

It appears that Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be beginning ride operation beginning an hour after normal park opening.

WDW Magic announced that the water raft ride will now have a 10am start for most of December, and 9am for the busy Christmas week when the park opens at 8am.

Perhaps this is due to the fact that Kali Rapids will close for a month long refurbishment on January 3 2017.

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, 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.

Photo: Disney

Refurbishment at Grand Floridian Convention Center

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 5, 2016

If you’ll be staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian at Walt Disney World this month, you may want to take note of some new information regarding closures at the convention center.

Orlando Theme Park News reports that starting December 12th, and lasting through January 1st, 2017, that the Convention Center at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will be closed for refurbishment.

The Convention Center, its adjacent parking lot, as well as the Wedding Pavilion areas will be inaccessible to Guests. Work will take place during the day with potential noise impacts. The Convention Services office will continue to remain open during refurbishment, but the business center will relocate to the main building of the resort (at the old concierge desk).

The Temporary Business Center Location will be located in the Main lobby, old concierge desk (Dec. 10–Jan. 1), with the following hours:

Monday–Friday: 7 a.m.–4 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Dec. 25

Guest Computer Access will also be available in the Main lobby, second floor, next to the Disney Vacation Club information desk:

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week

If you would like to visit Disneyland or Walt Disney World, 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.

photo: Disney

Epcot’s Alpine Haus Showcases The Story Of The Christmas Tree

By

Lisette R

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December 5, 2016

The tradition of having a Christmas Tree in our homes is celebrated around much of the world. Have you ever wondered where, and how, this tradition started? It is only fitting that Epcot’s new addition, Alpine Haus Food Kiosk, showcases The Story of the Christmas Tree with an intriguing display of trees and history. From the First Christmas Trees in Germany, to Victorian Christmas Trees, American Christmas Trees, and Modern-day Christmas Trees the history is quite fascinating.

The First Christmas Trees were inspired by the Germans as they used to decorate their homes with evergreen boughs. “Paradise Trees” were the first Christmas Trees and were decorated solely with real apples. Take a moment to read the Legend of the Spider when you visit this area of the display.

Victorian Christmas Trees made their first appearance, in Great Britain, in the mid-1800’s. Inspired by Prince Albert, who wanted to share the Christmas Trees from his German childhood with the people, these Christmas Trees became very popular. The additional piece of information, on this Victorian Christmas Trees history board, is the story of the First Christmas Cards.

American Christmas Trees became popular in the late 1800’s. The tradition of the Christmas Tree, while brought to the United States by way of Great Britain, inspired Americans to be innovative in many ways. The first-ever Christmas Tree Lot opened in New York and the First Christmas Tree Lights were invented in the United States. The First Electric Christmas Lights story will engage your interest.

Modern-day Christmas Trees vary from evergreen to pressed metal. This new take, on a lifetime tradition, brings innovative ways to celebrate the season with decorative elements. The evergreen tree remains the most popular form of Christmas Tree. Be sure to read the history board to discover how Japan, China, and Africa decorate their trees for the Christmas holiday.

You can find The Story of the Christmas Tree display at Alpine Haus. This new food kiosk is located along the World Showcase between Morocco and France. Stop by and take a look at this beautifully intriguing display. If you are looking for a bite to eat, Alpine Haus is an excellent option. You can enjoy your food at a tall table while admiring The Story of the Christmas Tree display. If you are traveling with school-age children to Walt Disney World this holiday season, the history of the Christmas Tree might make a really great report or journal entry for your student. Either way, you are sure to be intrigued by The Story of the Christmas Tree.

What do you like to decorate your home with for the holidays?

Please leave your comments in the box below.

New Art of Coloring Moana Coloring Book and New Disney Pre-Orders

By

Danielle

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December 4, 2016

The Art of Coloring Disney themed coloring books for adults are breathtaking works of art featuring beloved characters and themes with mancala designs woven throughout. The newest book to sail into our hearts is the Art of Coloring Moana coloring book!

“Relax, and let the creativity flow through you. Whether a skilled artist or an everyday dabbler of drawings and doodles, fans of all ages will enjoy these stunning pen-and-ink illustrations of beautiful landscapes, elaborate patterns, and memorable characters from Disney’s new animated feature Moana. The lovely packaging includes a convenient “lay flat” book block.”

In addition to this fantastic new Moana coloring book, is three new Disney themed books for pre-order! The Art of Coloring presents Tsum Tsum, Beauty & the Beast, and The Nightmare Before Christmas! Art of Coloring: Tsum Tsum and Beauty & the Beast are set to release January 31, 2017 and you can pre-order now. You will be able to pre-order The Nightmare Before Christmas coloring book here, for July 18, 2017.

If you haven’t checked out the current Art of Coloring Disney coloring books you can check them out here.

Which of the new Art of Coloring books are your must have?

Disney Releases Two New “Rogue One” Videos

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 4, 2016

The days are ticking down to the “Rogue One” release date. Disney just release two more videos to get us all in the mood.

Here is one behind the scenes of making the creatures:

And the new TV trailer:

“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” is released on December 16th.

Discounted Club Villain Tickets Available for DVC and Annual Passholders

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 4, 2016

Tickets to Club Villain are currently available at a $30 discount for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. The discounted tickets are $99 rather than the usual price of $129 and are available for dates through January 28, 2017. Price includes tax and gratuity.

Annual Passholders can take advantage of the special ticket price by calling 407-WDW-DINE. DVC Members should call Member Services at 800-800-9800. The discount can even be applied to existing Club Villain reservations.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next magical Disney vacation. All of my planning services are 100% FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Photo Credit: Disney

Celebrate National Cookie Day with Disney Spring’s Vivoli and EPCOT’s Tutto Italia!

By

Danielle

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December 4, 2016

Happy National Cookie Day! The Disney Parks are known for their delicious treats, including delightful cookies! The delicious gourmet offerings from Disney Spring’s Vivoli and EPCOT’s Tutto Italia are a perfect treat to celebrate National Cookie Day with.

National Cookie Day is here, but there’s no need to dirty bowls and baking sheets in your kitchen, come celebrate this sweet holiday at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs, or Tutto Italia at the EPCOT World Showcase.

Vivoli’s “Biscotti Assortiti” boasts an assortment of six traditional Italian Cookies. They’re espresso’s best friend, or you can use them as a Scarpetta (little shoe) in your Gelato to to help you scrape the bowl clean. (Works way better than licking it!) Enjoy a sweet berry thumbprint in the center of your cookie or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top to satisfy your sweet tooth.

At Tutto Italia’s gelati snack cart, you can indulge in the best of both dessert worlds with a custom “Gelato Sandwich.” A generous scoop of any gelato of your choosing is held together by two chocolate chip cookies in this match made in cookie heaven.

Of course there’s always the fabulous Mickey Macaroons, and giant Mickey chocolate chip cookie found at the bakeries to enjoy too!