All Campfires at Walt Disney World are Temporarily Cancelled

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April 14, 2017

Due to dry weather in Central Florida all scheduled campfires at Walt Disney World have been cancelled. Fire restrictions are currently in place to prevent fires like the 475 acre fire that broke out near International Drive last week. At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, all campsite must stop using all personal fire pits, charcoal grills or wood grills until further notice. For now, guests at the Fort Wilderness are still permitted to us propane grills.

Hopefully this dry weather will pass soon and no longer be a threat.

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.

Animal Kingdom Expanding Viewing Areas for Tree of Life Awakenings

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 14, 2017

Good news for visitors to Disney World this Summer that are hoping to catch a glimpse of the Tree of Life Awakenings projection show occurring nightly at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. New viewing platforms will be set up between Africa and Asia to accommodate more guests hoping to check out this nighttime display. The added viewing space is just in time for the increase in crowd numbers that are likely to occur with the opening of Pandora: The World of Avatar later this Spring.

The new viewing platforms will be open to Animal Kingdom visitors beginning in late May 2017. Currently the only place to view Tree of Life Awakenings is on Discovery Island as you enter the park which is a high traffic area.

For those that haven’t had a chance to witness Tree of Life Awakenings yet, its definitely a worthy addition to your must-do list. After night fall, the Tree of the Life, the beautiful landmark at the center of Animal Kingdom springs to life every 10 minutes. You’ll be blow away by the life-like almost holographic quality of the projections depicting the spirits of the animals carved into tree the coming to life.

The event occurs each evening after the sunset and re-occurs every 10 minutes until park close.

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Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider booking 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 resort 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.

“Happily Ever After” To Feature Ground-breaking Performance Mapping

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 14, 2017

Mark your calendars! On May 12, Disney will be introducing it’s newest nighttime fireworks spectacular, “Happily Ever After”. This new show tells the story of our favorite Disney characters trying to make their dreams come true. But, even our Disney heroes have to encounter obstacles along the way. Guests can cheer them on as they stop those sneaky villains and ultimately find their Happily Ever After. “Happily Ever After” will feature a large cast of characters ranging from classic Disney characters to more modern favorites like those from “Moana“, “Zootopia“, and “Big Hero 6“.

The coolest part of this new show is that Disney will be using the latest in projection mapping technology to bring this story to life with Cinderella’s Castle as the backdrop. According to James Silson, the show director for “Happily Ever After”, “With projection mapping technology, you can create an immersive environment for guests, taking them inside the films of Disney. It enables us to flood the palate and give our guests an opportunity to experience many of our characters’ worlds in the same show.”

This will not be the first time that Disney has used projection mapping in it’s shows though. It began in 2010 with “The Magic, the Memories, and You” where Disney would project pictures of its Magic Kingdom guests up on Cinderella’s castle. In 2012 it was used in “Celebrate the Magic”. Projection mapping did so well that it was then used in every Disney park around the world!

Currently we see it being used to help present the hugely popular “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” at Hollywood Studios. Projection mapping is also used during the Christmas season to display the “Jingle Jam: Jingle BAM” show.

Are you excited to see how this cool new technology will bring the new nighttime fireworks spectacular “Happily Ever After” to life? Take a look below for a behind-the-scenes video on how the projection mapping for ‘Happily Ever After’ was created:

We hope you are as excited as we are about seeing this brand new evening spectacular! At Walt Disney World its definitely shaping up to be a Spring and Summer to remember.

Want more help planning your trip? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, I am here to answer all of your Disney questions. 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.

Belle Inspired Water Color Duvet Set for a Beautiful Princess Room

By

Danielle

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April 14, 2017

I’m always looking to redecorate, and change things up in my home this time of year. I’m really loving bright colors, with soft details right now, just like on this gorgeous Belle Inspired Water Color Duvet Set!

Belle is a dream in her gold gown surrounded by beautiful red roses on this duvet set. This beautiful bed set has an elegant design, while still showing off the beautiful and beloved Belle. I love the subtle shading of Belle’s iconic yellow dress with the water color style. The red roses add pops of color, without overwhelming the designs. This collection comes with a duvet cover, pillow case, and sheet that zips up. This twin set is fabulous for a little princess, or guest room!

Do you know a Belle loving princess that would love to have Belle Inspired Water Color Duvet Set for their room?

Special Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Events for DVC Members

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 14, 2017

Disney Vacation Club Members can celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s day “Disney Style”. Events are scheduled for Mother’s Day at Walt Disney World Resort and Father’s Day at the Disneyland Resort.

Reservations are now open for the Disney Vacation Club Member Mother’s Day Brunch, taking place on May 14 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Fantasia Ballroom at the Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Priced at $53.95 for adults and $29.95 for kids ages 3-9 (plus tax and gratuity). Enjoy a buffet of traditional brunch favorites, the Mother’s Day Brunch will feature music from “Tarzan” and beyond performed by a live guitarist, mimosas for Moms (and other guests 21 and older) and visits with some of your other favorite jungle friends.

On April 19, reservations are scheduled to open for the Disney Vacation Club Member Father’s Day Lunch, taking place on June 18 from noon-2 p.m. in the Sequoia Ballroom at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Priced at $53.95 for adults and $29.95 for kids ages 3-9 (plus tax and gratuity). Feast on BBQ baby back ribs and buttermilk fried chicken as well as other buffet items. Dads and kids can pose at three different photo locations designed to celebrate what’s super about their Dads, with other activities ranging from a DJ dance party, “Super Smart” Disney trivia, crafts for kids to create for Dads and more.

I can’t think of a better way to spend these special days for Moms and Dads than at Disney. Will you be celebrating with Disney this year?

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.

All New Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Trailer released

By

Chip

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April 14, 2017

An all new Star Wars: The Last Jedi poster and teaser trailer has been released today at Star War Celebration in Orlando Florida.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Arriving in your galaxy December 15.

The Star Wars Galactic Nights Event Schedule is Finally Here

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 14, 2017

It’s almost here, the first Star Wars Galactic Nights event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is taking place on April 14th, 2017 as part of Star Wars Celebration Orlando and Disney has released a full schedule and list of events for this out of this world event.

Entertainment

Stars in Cars – 8:05PM
Motorcade Route (Stars near Main Entrance)

Grab your spot to view a star-studded motorcade featuring a galaxy of your favorite Star Wars celebrities. The motorcade begins at the front of Hollywood Boulevard and travels towards Star Tours: The Adventures Continue.

Inside the Saga – Celebrity Chat Show – 9:00, 10:00, 11:00PM
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Theater (Pre-show begins 10 minutes before show time)

Hear from host Vanessa Marshall and Star Wars cast members and go behind the scenes of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” to learn what it takes to make remarkable cinematic moments. 30 minutes long.

Celebrate the Saga – 9:15 & 11:15PM
Rebel Base

Take an interactive journey that chronologically celebrates the milestones of 40 Force-filled years of Star Wars

DJ Dance Party – 7-7:25PM, 9:45-10:25PM
Rebel Base

Sway the night away at a galactic dance party.

Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away – 7:45, 8:50, 10:50PM
Rebel Base

Experience a live stage show of high energy film clips that juxtapose action-filled character moments on stage, including Chewbacca, Darth Vader, Kylo Ren and many more! (Enhanced for Event)

Galactic Nights Epilogue – 11:40pm
Rebel Base

Prior to the evening’s grand finale, join our event hosts as you marvel at a spotlight of Star Wars Galactic Nights event highlights from the fans!

Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular – 11:45PM
Rebel Base

Watch the fireworks above bring the entire Star Wars saga to life in a spectacular multimedia experience! (Enhanced for Event)

Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple – 7:45, 8:45, 9:45, 10:45PM
Near Star Tours- The Adventures Continue

Witness the future of the Force, as younglings face their fears at the sacred Jedi Temple. 25 minutes in length. Visit Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost to reserve a spot in the training. Participants ages 4-12 must be present to register. Space is limited. (Enhanced for Event)

March of the First Order – 8:30 & 10:30PM
Hollywood Boulevard

Captain Phasma leads a unit of First Order Stormtroopers down Hollywood Boulevard to the Rebel Base, stopping for a demonstration of their power and strength.

Imperial March – 7:25, 9:25, & 11:25PM
Starts near Star Tours and travels to Rebel Base

The Sith Lord himself, Darth Vader, leads a battalion of Stormtroopers on a dramatic Imperial March to the Rebel Base.

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Get ready to meet your favorite Star Wars characters

Darth Vader
Chewbacca
Kylo Ren
BB-8
Boba Fett
Jawas
Ewoks
Imperial Troopers
AWR Troopers

Other Disney favorites will be available in their regular locations.

Mickey & Minnie Mouse
Olaf
Buzz Lightyear & Woody
Moana

Scavenger Hunt

Guests are invited to collect a piece of the saga at photo backdrops featured throughout the Park and affix each piece to your Star Wars Galactic Nights Credential! Disney
PhotoPass Photographers will also be at each location to capture your favorite moments.

Locations:
Jabba the Hutt’s Palace (Near Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster)
Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite (Near Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster)
Hoth Wampa Cave (Muppets Courtyard)
Trash Compactor (Left of Great Movie Ride)
Emperor’s Throne Room (Echo Lake)
Rogue One (Near One Man’s Dream)
Speeder Bike (Across from Star Tours)

The Star Wars Galactic Nights Event Schedule is Finally Here

Attractions

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: Star Wars Edition is a special experience just for the event. Take a journey through hyperspace in this not-to-be-missed Star Wars experience. A version of this experience was run during the special The Force Awakens hard-ticket event which was held in 2015.

Guest will also be able to enjoy the following
The Great Movie Ride
Star Wars: Path of the Jedi
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Muppet-Vision 3D
Toy Story Mania!
Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream
Voyage of The Little Mermaid
Star Wars Launch Bay
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Star Wars Dessert Party

Food and Beverage

Skywalker Vineyards wines will be available at the bars located near the Rebel Base. Snack carts located throughout the park will feature specialty cupcakes, lightsaber churros, Chebacca steins, and TIE Fighter popcorn buckets.

Shopping

Special event merchandise will be available at the following locations:

Legends of Hollywood
Mickey’s of Hollywood
Keystone Clothiers
Launch Bay Cargo
Tatooine Traders

No doubt this will be an amazing night for Star Wars enthusiasts. Will you be there?

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.

The Polite Pig Disney Springs Serves Up Modern Barbecue and Cocktails on Tap

By

Lisette R

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April 14, 2017

The Polite Pig Disney Springs opened its doors to the general public on April 10th. This newest restaurant is located in the Town Center Neighborhood of Disney Springs. The Polite Pig is now serving Modern Barbecue dishes and a variety of cocktails on tap. Here is our review of the meal we had there this week.

If you are stopping by The Polite Pig Disney Springs for something to eat you can enter from the side door and hop on line to order. The menu includes Snacks, Salads, Sandwiches, From The Smoker Meals, Market Sides and Desserts. They do not have an allergy-friendly menu. However, our Server told us the Chef will speak with you individually to determine what choices may be available for you based on your specific allergies. For example, the Coffee Rub Brisket and the Maple Glazed Salmon are gluten-free.

The Disney Dining Plan is accepted and will cost you one Quick Service credit. You can choose a Salad, or Sandwich, with one side, and a soft drink beverage. We feel the best choice for your Quick Service Credits are the “From The Smoker” options as each of these is served with your selection of Meat, Slaw, Texas Toast, and one Market Side as well as your soft drink. One word of note here, the Desserts each cost $7.00 and are therefore not included in your meal under the Disney Dining Plan. You will need to purchase these separately as the idea is that dessert, under the use of a Quick Service Dining Credit, typically costs $5.00 or less.

Once you have placed your order you can find a seat. Place your Number on your table and a Server will bring you your food when it is ready. This concept is quite similar to Be Our Guest in the Magic Kingdom where you receive a Red Rose that is essentially a GPS for the Servers to locate you within the restaurant. The high ceilings and the exposed ductwork are interesting but are also a magnet for sound! It gets very loud in there.

The Sauce Bar has a variety of jarred sauces as well as the traditional pump sauces. The pump sauces were covered with clear plastic cups and we decided not try any of those.

There is a soft drink station against one wall with Sweet Tea, Unsweet Tea, and Fountain Beverages.

We started with the Hop Salt Pretzel Snack option. This was our least favorite part of the meal. The pretzel was room temperature and quite dry. The Hop Salt gives the pretzel a strong flavor. The Beer Cheese was barely warm and did not add much to the pretzel. The IPA Mustard, on the other hand, was quite good. This condiment added great flavor to the pretzel.

The Sandwich option we chose was The Southern Pig. This particular item was our favorite item of the evening. The pulled pork is tangy and quite flavorful. The apple slaw placed on top adds a nice flavor and texture combination to the pork. The Toasted Bun is very good with a nice, almost slightly sweet, flavor.

Dessert was the Orange Blossom Honey Cake. This sweet treat was good with a sweet citrus flavor. The cake is moist and the frosting is not overdone. Our favorite part of the cake is the drizzle of Orange Blossom Honey on top.

If you are just looking to enjoy a beer, a cocktail, or a pitcher of beer or cocktails you can step up to the Polite Pig’s Indoor/Outdoor Patio Bar. What we love about this bar is that it begins outside, and extends into the restaurant via open sliding glass doors. This location makes for a nice spot to gather with friends to socialize while enjoying an adult alcoholic beverage.

The Polite Pig serves up Beer, Cocktails and Wine. While this may not sound like something new, the interesting point here is that they are all served on tap. This new concept is sure to be a favorite amongst many visitors. Since we were driving, we did not indulge this time around. I will visit with friends soon and certainly try a cocktail or two from The Polite Pig’s Indoor/Outdoor Patio Bar.

In addition to the Indoor Seating, and Indoor/Outdoor Patio Bar, there is outdoor patio seating at tables with umbrellas. As you can see, the outdoor tables are already quite popular.

The Polite Pig Team Members are perfectly polite and more than willing to assist with any questions. Felix was our Server and he was really a fun guy. Trisha answered some additional questions we had on our way out.

Overall, the Polite Pig Disney Springs is a nice place to enjoy a meal and some adult beverages. We recommend the Sandwiches and are planning to go back to try some of the From The Smoker options as well as a cocktail or two on tap. We do agree that the prices are a bit steep for what you get. Most Quick Service restaurants offer the sandwich along with a side. The Polite Pig offers the Sandwich and that is it; unless you want to spend an additional $6.00 for one side. With the sandwiches costing between $11.00 and $15.00 the price jumps up pretty quickly. There is the option of purchasing three sides for $15.00 which may be a good idea. However, you will not be able to enjoy any of the smoked meats in that scenario. The Polite Pig Disney Springs is now open and ready to serve up Modern Barbecue and Cocktails on Tap.

Will you be stopping by to enjoy a meal, or a beverage, at the Polite Pig Disney Springs? Please leave your comments in the box below.

DisneyNature heads under the Sea with all new trailer for “Dolphins”

By

Chip

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April 14, 2017

With just a week until Earth Day and the theatrical debut of the fun and breathtaking new movie “Born in China,” Disneynature reveals a sneak peek at its next movie, “Dolphins,” which comes out in time for Earth Day 2018.

From a year in the lives of a family of Alaskan brown bears to the plight of a baby chimpanzee who finds himself all alone, Disneynature blends state-of-the-art nature filmmaking with Walt Disney’s signature storytelling. In 2018, Disneynature dives under the sea to frolic with some of the planet’s most engaging animals: dolphins. Echo is a youngster who can’t quite decide if it’s time to grow up and take on new responsibilities—or give in to her silly side and just have fun. Dolphin society is tricky, and the coral reef that Echo and his family call home depends on all of its inhabitants to keep it healthy. But Echo has a tough time resisting the many adventures the ocean has to offer. Through the eyes of a carefree dolphin, enjoy Disneynature’s next True Life Adventure–coming Earth Day 2018.

“Dolphins” is directed and produced by the same team who brought “Bears” and “African Cats” to the big screen in 2014 and 2011.

You can see the trailer play in front of Disneynature’s “Born in China” starting April 21 in theatres nationwide.

Star Wars Days returns to Legoland Florida in May

By

Chip

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April 14, 2017

This May, the creativity of the LEGO^® building system meets the thrilling adventures and beloved characters from “a galaxy far, far away” when LEGO^® Star Wars™ Days returns to LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort.

Authorized by Lucasfilm, this year’s event will double the fun on two weekends – from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14.

In MINILAND USA, kids can explore some of the most famous scenes from the Star Wars™ saga made out of 1.5 million LEGO bricks, including detailed displays inspired by “Star Wars – Episode IV: A New Hope,” “Star Wars – Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back” and “Star Wars – Episode VI: Return of the Jedi,” plus giant LEGO models of Darth Vader, Darth Maul and R2-D2.

Kids also can:

Create a giant LEGO^® Star Wars™ mural, brick by brick
Build their own LEGO^® Star Wars™ model
Search for LEGO droids throughout MINILAND USA to unscramble a secret message
Learn tips and tricks from our LEGO Master Model Builders
Build the world’s largest LEGO Yoda model
Meet LEGO Darth Vader
Dress up as their favorite LEGO^® Star Wars™ character and participate in our intergalactic costume parade (ages 12 and under)

…and much, much more, including giveaways, fun photo ops, opportunities to win LEGO^® Star Wars™ prizes and exclusive retail offers.

New this year: Are you more rookie or Wookiee? Test your family’s Star Wars™ knowledge and LEGO building skills against other families during a just-for-fun competition!

All activities will take place both weekends and are included with all forms of park admission. No extra ticket or Jedi mind tricks required! It’s the only LEGO^® Star Wars™ theme park event in Central Florida.

Join us. It is your destiny!

More than 50 rides, shows and attractions inspired by the LEGO and DUPLO^® brands await at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including experiences based on “The LEGO Movie™,” LEGO NINJAGO^®, LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS™, LEGO City, LEGO Technic and LEGO Friends.

For more information, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP experiences, military discounts and much more, visitwww.LEGOLAND.com/florida, or call (877) 350-5346.

Star Wars 40th Anniversary Celebration in Pictures and video!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 14, 2017

40 YEARS OF STAR WARS PANEL during the 2017 STAR WARS CELEBRATION — Harrison Ford, Kathleen Kennedy, George Lucas, Billie Lourd and Mark Hamill (Photo by Gerardo Mora/Getty Images for Disney)

Star Wars 40th Anniversary Celebration in Pictures and video! — Harrison Ford, Kathleen Kennedy, George Lucas, Billie Lourd and Mark Hamill (Photo by Gerardo Mora/Getty Images for Disney)

What a great day to be a Star Wars fan! Star Wars Celebration Orlando kicked off with an epic tribute for the Saga’s 40th Anniversary featuring surprise guests including George Lucas, Kathleen Kennedy, Warwick Davis, Hayden Christensen, Ian McDiarmid, Dave Filoni, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, Billy Dee Williams and Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford.

The panel’s finale was an emotional tribute to Carrie Fisher with remarks from her daughter Billie Lourd and a surprise appearance by legendary composer John Williams, who conducted the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra while they played “Leia’s Theme.”

Did you go to the Star Wars Celebration? What was your experience?

GERARDO MORA/GETTY IMAGES FOR DISNEY

Here is the live video from yeserday:

Adorable Disney Bow Ties and Neck Ties for Your Little One

By

Danielle

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April 14, 2017

While out with friends at the mall last week we happened upon a cute kiosk of hair bows featuring lots of Disney characters. My son was so excited, and was so wanting one as a bow tie, especially a Mickey one, but alas they just didn’t work for that. So I of course went on the hunt, and I found these adorable Disney Bow Ties and Neck Ties by ATARAHSCREATIONS on Etsy!

Each of these fabulous ties are handmade by the designer, and you can choose from a bow tie, neck tie, or even both! The ties come already tied, with a velcro fastener so they are easy to put on. They are made to fit from newborns all the way to tween sizes, so none of the littles are left out. Dad might be a bit jealous though. I love that there’s quite a few Disney choices, including Maui from Moana, I’m sure he would say “You’re Welcome” if he saw it. I love finding a cute and dapper way to dress up with Disney touches!

Mickey Classic
Mickey Icon
Mickey Plaid
Olaf
Lightning McQueen
Dory
Maui
Captain America
Star Wars
This one isn’t Disney, but a lot of the preschoolers are also loving Paw Patrol these days too!

What do you think of these dapper little Disney Bow Ties and Neck Ties?