*UPDATE: “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” 3D Collector’s Edition is coming this November

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August 11, 2016

Just in time for the holidays fans can bring home Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” for the first time in 3D, encased in collectible packaging.

The exclusive four-disc 3D Collector’s Edition contains the original theatrical release on Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray™, Digital HD and DVD, along with originally released bonus features and brand-new bonus material, including additional deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes conversations with cast and crew and revealing, never-before released audio commentary by director J.J. Abrams.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” 3D Collector’s Edition is arriving in the United States and Canada on Nov 15.

*The bonus features include:

• Audio Commentary with J.J. Abrams – Enter the mind of visionary director J.J. Abrams as he reveals
the creative and complex choices made while developing the first film in the new Star Wars
trilogy.
• Foley: A Sonic Tale – Foley artists, consisting of old pros and new talent, unite to bring the world
of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” alive through the matching of sound to action.
• Sounds of the Resistance – Hear how the epic sound design of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” moves
the Star Wars legacy forward.
• Deleted Scenes – View never-before-shared scenes that didn’t make the film’s final cut.
• Dressing the Galaxy – Costume Designer Michael Kaplan reveals how the costumes of the original Star
Wars movies were re-envisioned for a new generation.
• The Scavenger and the Stormtrooper: A Conversation with Daisy Ridley and John Boyega – The two new
stars share the thrill of working together on the adventure of a lifetime and becoming part of
the Star Wars legacy.
• Inside the Armory – Take a fascinating tour through the design and creation of the weaponry in “Star
Wars: The Force Awakens.”
• Classic Bonus Features – These offerings from the April release of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,”
include the complete story behind the making of the film, an unforgettable cast table read,
insights from legendary composer John Williams and deleted scenes, as well as features that dig
deeper into the creation of new characters such as BB-8, the design of the climactic lightsaber
battle between Rey and Kylo Ren, the film’s remarkable digital artistry and the Star Wars: Force
for Change global aid initiative.

LEGO Star Wars Days Takes Kids to a Galaxy Far, Far Away Sept. 10-11 at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

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Chip

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August 11, 2016

The Force is strong with LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort as the anticipation builds for LEGO^® Star Wars™ Days presented by LEGO Club. During this exclusive, one-weekend-only event, guests can release their inner Jedi or Stormtrooper as they participate in a variety of immersive, themed activities. No extra ticket or Jedi mind tricks required.

The event will feature the LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland Model Display — seven of the most famous scenes from the six live-action Star Wars™ movies, as well as a scene from the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars™, all made out of 1.5 million LEGO bricks.

Fans are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite LEGO Star Wars™ characters and take part in an all-new parade. Those who dress the part will also have the chance to win a LEGO Star Wars™ prize pack. And, be warned, The Dark Side awaits those who stop in for a meet-and-greet with LEGO Darth Vader.

LEGO Star Wars™ set designer Jens Kronvold Frederiksen will host a live speaker session with an interactive Q&A and Master Model Builders will offer building tips. There will also be a LEGO Star Wars™ Mural Build and budding builders are encouraged to get creative during a competition build.

Each guest will have the opportunity to join LEGO Club and be the first to know all the new and exciting things coming from The LEGO Group and LEGOLAND Florida Resort. For more information on this #BuiltForKids event, visithttps://www.legoland.com/florida/.

Disney Confirms Main Street Electrical Parade ending on October 9th

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Chip

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August 10, 2016

As posted this morning by Anonymouse Disney has confirmed that The Main Street Electrical Parade in the Magic Kingdom will officially end its historic run at Walt Disney World Resort on October 9th and then head to Disneyland Resort for a limited-time encore engagement.

No word yet if Paint the Night is coming to the Magic Kingdom, well at least anytime soon as Disney posted this news just shortly after sharing news of the MSEP departure:

“Paint the Night” parade will continue nightly performances, just before “Disneyland Forever” fireworks, through September 5 as part of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. This popular parade will return on select nights during the holiday season later this year.

So it looks like after the holiday season either it is going to be retired like Main Street Electrical Parade or make the move across the country to Walt Disney World.

Are you sad to see it go? Let us know in the comment box below.

Photo credit Disney parks blog

Suspicious package found near Disneyland Paris causes evacuation

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Disney News

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August 10, 2016

Reports are coming in that there was a suspicious package found near Disneyland Paris this evening and the park has been evacuated. Park-goers and families had to leave the park due to the package found in a nearby principal train station, Marne la Vallee station. This is the 3rd time this train station has been evacuated in the past few weeks due to a suspicious package.

Recently there have been some warnings about an attack on Disneyland Paris from groups such as Al-Qaeda and Islamic State.

#Disneyland Paris evacuated. Police and army on scene.#France pic.twitter.com/SWxbgp6sqc

— Ahmed Hassan (@SHAWSHANK5) August 10, 2016

Hundreds of people including families with young children were escorted out of the park by Police and Army personnel after 8pm.

A Disneyland Paris spokeswoman said there is no immediate fear of terrorist.

Take a look at the video or this article for more information.

Photo Credit Ahmed Hassan on Twitter

Spooktacular Top 5 Haunted Mansion Favorites on Etsy

By

Danielle

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August 10, 2016

Did you know that August is the Haunted Mansion’s anniversary month? In celebration of one of my favorite rides, I’ve decided to show off my Top 5 Haunted Mansion favorites from Etsy!

The very first Disney Haunted Mansion ride opened in Disneyland on August 9, 1969. For nearly 50 years this attraction has been delighting fans in many different forms across the globe. It has become a pop culture obsession, that has inspired merchandise, costumes and even a movie! The Haunted Mansion is not only one of my favorite rides, but is also the very FIRST Disney ride I ever went on. So without further ado, I present my Top 5 favorite Haunted Mansion items from Etsy!

5.) Haunted Mansion Hair Bow from LeBownitte

I love hair bows, and Disney Hair Bows make up most of my collection. I love this Haunted Mansion bow, because of the small wall paper pattern. I love seeing lots of those iconic spooky eyes! The black tie in the center makes for a perfect contrast. I might have 999 hair bows, but there is always room for one more!

4.) Haunted Mansion Makeup Bag by SassySkirtsForGals

As a girl obsessed with make up and beauty products, I love finding super cute and themed make-up bags. This make-up bag is not only inspired by the Haunted Mansion, but also has a waterproof liner inside! This haunting beauty is machine washable, just incase you spill your favorite ghostly foundation. There is a zipper closure and also plenty room for ALL of your essentials. Measures 7″ x 4.5″ x 3″.

3.) Haunted Mansion Inspired Leggings by KawaiianPizzaApparel

I adore KawaiianPizzaApparel, they have some of the cutest Disney themed apparel. These sublimation printed leggings are inspired by the wallpaper in the Haunted Mansion! One of my favorite things about this shop, is they make items from XS to 3XL! I think it’s fabulous when a designer includes so many sizes.

2.) Haunted Mansion Minnie Ears from MouseBands

MouseBands makes some of the most comfortable Mouse Ear headbands ever. I’m super excited to get my hands on a pair of her new Haunted Mansion creation! These are complete with a black spiderweb bow, and sparkly bat embellishment. I think these would be spooktacular for a Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party night.

1.) Haunted Mansion Maid Pin Up Apron by SassyFrasCollection

Squee! I love frilly cosplay aprons, so I am dying over these. The Haunted Mansion Maid Pin Up Apron features a custom green and black striped Haunted Mansion fabric for the top skirt and bodice. The top bodice and skirt mixed with the green under skirt and black tulle, is the perfect homage to the ghost hosts.

What do you think of my Top 5 Haunted Mansion favorites from Etsy?

Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion Book on Sale Now

By

Danielle

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August 10, 2016

Earlier this summer it was announced that a new children’s book would be debuting based on a famous Disney Park’s attraction. The Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion Book is the first of a new series of books featuring iconic attractions. It is now available for purchase on Amazon, and oh, it is hauntingly perfect!

This bewitching picture book is a hard cover book that comes with a CD featuring the song “Grim Grinning Ghosts”. The spooky children’s book is the first of the Disney Parks Presents picture books. For me this book offers an amazing feature. You can actually flip through it while listening to the uniquely created song you hear on the ride! That is truly a magical plus for this already gorgeous book. The book is illustrated with texture and depth by James Gilleard. His artwork is also a stunning compliment to the lyrics.

Synopsis:

The song “Grim Grinning Ghosts,” composed in the late 1960s, continues to reside in the dark corridors and spooky cemetery of the Haunted Mansion. Millions of guests leave the mansion with not only a hitchhiking ghost but also this jaunty tune catching a ride all the way home.

The Haunted Mansion has long been a pop culture favorite with Disney lovers around the world. That makes this a fitting book to serve as an introduction to this new series. There will be future “Disney Parks Presents” books coming out. You’ll be able to find other beloved featured attractions. Look for Pirates of the Caribbean and the world famous Jungle Cruise. Each of these will also feature their own unique art style.

You can find the Disney Parks Presents: Haunted Mansion book on Amazon today, for less that $13.00! That’s a great price for an authentic Disney book that also comes with a music CD.

Club Villain Discount Available for Tables in Wonderland Members

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 10, 2016

Discounted Club Villain tickets are available to Tables in Wonderland Members at the rate of $99 per person, including tax and gratuity. This special rate is available only on September 2, 3, 9 and 10 at both the 5:15pm and 8:30pm shows. A valid photo ID and Tables in Wonderland membership card must be shown upon check-in. This offer is good for the member and up to 9 additional guests.

Club Villain is a specially ticketed dining event held at Sunset Showcase in Hollywood Studios on Friday and Saturday evenings at 5:15pm and 8:30pm during September and October. The event will also be held on Halloween night. Tickets are normally $129 per person and reservations can be made online or by calling 407-939-3463.

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

Photo Credit: Disney

Is the Main Street Electrical Parade Closing?

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Anonymouse

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August 10, 2016

Hey there guys and gals I am back with more Disney Gossip!

I have some good and bad news to share with you today concerning the Main Street Electrical Parade… A little mouse told me that we might be seeing the end of the Main Street Electrical Parade on September 10th and that Paint the Night which is closing at Disneyland will be coming to take it’s place. Sorry there is no real way to share that news other than to just put it out there.

Paint the night is set to close on September 5th which gives it plenty of time to make the trek from Disneyland to Walt Disney World.

Magic Kingdom Park, the first Disney Park to open at Walt Disney World, will mark its 45th anniversary on October 1st, will Paint the night be there to celebrate? Only Disney knows for sure as this is just gossip for now…

As with all of my rumors as soon as something becomes official my boy Chip will post it.

That is all the Disney gossip I have for now. For my past gossip articles be sure to check them out here. Got any good gossip/rumors please email me at anonymouse@chipandco.com or on my Facebook page.

AbracadaBar in Disney’s Boardwalk Offers Curious Cocktails in a Magical Atmosphere

By

Lisette R

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August 10, 2016

AbracadaBar, now open at Disney’s Boardwalk, offers curious cocktails in a magical atmosphere. Here you will find some interesting features such as artwork that magically transforms, magicians and illusionists artifacts, comfortable seating areas, interesting libations, and a backstage effect to the restrooms area. AbracadaBar opens at 4:00pm and is a great place to relax with a pre-dinner drink before enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants on Disney’s Boardwalk.

AbracadaBar magically opened its doors to the public on July 23, 2016. The opening itself was not announced until that very day. The storyline is that magicians and illusionists used to frequent this area, until they disappeared 70 years ago. A custodian working on the Boardwalk set his mop against a false door leading into the secret space that is now open for business. The story of the missing magicians is framed on the wall, as a newspaper-style storyline, for all to read if interested. You can find this magical location between Trattoria al Forno and the refurbished Flying Fish, that re-opened August 3rd, on Disney’s Boardwalk at the Walt Disney World Resort.

What trickery is this? One of the really fun atmospheric displays is the poster art framed on the wall. You will see many of the magicians and illusionists appear, then disappear, before your eyes as seen above on the Encantadora artwork. Note that the poster states the bull will disappear, when in fact it is the magician who actually disappears, adding a keen sense of humor to the space. Keep your eyes open, because the change really does happen in the blink of an eye.

There are some interesting artifacts reminiscent of the magicians and illusionists of the Golden Age of Magic, which primarily took place in the late 1800’s through the mid 1900’s. You will see the magician’s hat sitting proudly atop the shelf, above the liquor bottles, behind the bar. The glass-enclosed shelves, covering one wall in the seating area, are loaded with eclectic artifacts. Look for the Magic Wand, Aladdin’s Lamp, and Hidden Mickey’s in this display. The walls boast thin glass shadow boxes holding such items as a straight jacket, a group of shackles, and some magic keys.

AbracadaBar is big on magic, but not on space. Arrive early for the best seats. You will find bench seating with small stools, cozy corner seating with comfy chairs and a couch, as well as your typical bar stool seating at tall tables. There is also outdoor tables and chairs although if you sit outside, you lose out on the magical atmosphere.

The bar is well stocked with many types of liquor. From a variety of gins and vodkas, to bourbons and tequilas, AbracadaBar has it all. Be sure to read the Curious Cocktails menu as it describes some interesting libations. One example is the Magic Hattan, which states it is “A classic Whiskey Manhattan~rabbits not included!” My favorite is the Elixir 13, which boasts it is, “The mysterious cocktail that may have made a room of magicians vanish into thin air…” If you are not into mixed drinks, AbracadaBar also has “Worldly Wines” and “Baffling Beers.” Non-alcoholic drinks are available upon request.

The restroom areas are set up to resemble a backstage area. The lighting with mirrors reminds me of a backstage dressing room. The tile on the ladies restroom wall has an arrow with the words “TO STAGE” pointing to the door. Be sure to linger in the area just outside the restrooms to admire the displays on the walls, the magic mirror, and look for the Hidden Mickey Ace of Spades.

AbracadaBar is a busy place as the evening hours commence. If you wish to enjoy the space, an early drink before dinner, a chance to speak with a team member about the storyline, and the opportunity to find comfortable seating of your choice, then I strongly recommend you arrive within the first two hours of opening; between 4:00pm and 6:00pm. The interior space, the Curious Concoctions, and the magician’s artifacts definitely warrant a visit to this establishment.

What Curious Concoction will you try when you visit AbracadaBar at Disney’s Boardwalk? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Cinderella As Told By Emoji

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2016

Cinderella logo

Just when you thought you’ve seen every way to tell the story of Cinderella, a new version comes out that we’re sure you’ve never seen. Today, Disney released their newest episode of the popular “As Told By Emoji” series featuring Cinderella: Cinderella As Told By Emoji.

Join emoji-fied versions of Cinderella, Prince Charming, Fairy Godmother, Gus, the Wicked Stepmother, and more as they retell one of Disney’s most timeless stories. Created by the team at Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media, the As Told By Emoji series has released seven episodes to-date, reaching more than 80 million views and has been translated into 25 languages.

Deputies arrest a man attempting to bring a gun into the Magic Kingdom

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Disney News

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August 9, 2016

According to WFTV 9 ABC Deputies arrested an armed man impersonating a police officer Monday at the entrance of Magic Kingdom.

Kevin Webb tried walking through the metal detectors yesterday morning at 8am with a gun in his front pocket. Webb admitted he was carrying his gun and that he was a retired Police Officer in Arkansas. According to the arrest report he owned up to having the firearm in his right front pocket immediately and then showed something in his wallet to the security officer, trying to indicate he was a police officer.

After some research it was determined he was not a retired officer but he did work for the Police Department in Arkansas but was fired.

Webb was arrested and booked into the Orange County Jail on charges of impersonating an officer and carrying a concealed firearm.

For more:

We’re very thankful for the alert deputies who handled the situation!

Disney Invites You To Bring Home Beauty And The Beast 25th Anniversary Edition & All Of The Disney Princesses

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 9, 2016

In honor of the 25th anniversary of the cherished animated classic “Beauty and the Beast,” Disney fans are getting a rare opportunity to access Disney’s Princess films. On Sept. 6, the beloved classic featuring Belle and Beast will be released as part of The Walt Disney Signature Collection and in celebration of the event, for the first time ever, all 11 Disney Princess films are being made available to bring home at the same time,Sept. 6 – Oct. 17. This is a chance you can’t miss!

“Beauty and the Beast” 25th Anniversary Edition
Releases Sept. 6 on Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere and Sept. 20 on Blu-ray™ and DVD
Twenty-five years ago, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” broke ground as the first animated feature film to receive an Academy Award® nomination for best picture. The beloved classic won two Oscars®, including best song and best original score, as well as a Golden Globe Award® for best comedy/musical. Now a whole new generation of viewers will follow the magical journey of Belle, an independent and intelligent, modern-day heroine who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her precarious situation, Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff—a teapot, a candelabra and a mantel clock, among others—and ultimately learns to see beneath the Beast’s exterior to discover the heart and soul of a prince.

The Walt Disney Signature Collection edition features four versions of “Beauty and the Beast,” including a never-before-released on home entertainment, sing-along version. A host of all-new bonus extras include a rare opportunity to gather around the piano with some of Disney’s greatest composers, as they sing and share how they’ve personally been inspired by the film’s award-winning music; a look at how Walt Disney himself sought to adapt this famous fairytale; a nostalgic look back with Paige O’Hara, the voice of Belle; behind-the-scenes access into the recording booth with the cast; and a sneak peek at Disney’s upcoming live-action re-telling of “Beauty and the Beast,” arriving in theaters in 2017.

“Aladdin”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Soar away on a magic carpet ride of non-stop laughs, thrills and Academy Award®-winning music. In the heart of an enchanted city, a commoner named Aladdin and his mischievous monkey Abu battle to save the free-spirited Princess Jasmine from the schemes of the evil sorcerer Jafar. Aladdin’s whole life changes with one rub of a magic lamp as a fun-loving, shape-shifting Genie appears and grants him three wishes, setting him on an incredible journey of discovery.

“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Forever enchanting and inspiring, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs launched The Walt Disney Signature Collection. In this epic story of love and friendship, the kind and beautiful princess Snow White wins the hearts of the Seven Dwarfs and triumphs over the evil plans of a wicked Queen. Discover the movie called “The Greatest Animated Film Of All Time”!

“Tangled”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, Digital 3D, HD/SD, DVD
When the kingdom’s most wanted – and most charming – bandit Flynn Rider hides in a mysterious tower, he’s taken hostage by Rapunzel, a beautiful and feisty tower-bound teen with 70 feet of magical, golden hair. Together, the unlikely duo sets off on an action-packed escapade, complete with a super-cop horse, an overprotective chameleon and a gruff gang of pub thugs. “Tangled” is a story of adventure, heart, humor and hair—lots of hair.

“Cinderella”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
With a wave of her wand and some “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother transforms an ordinary pumpkin into a magnificent coach and Cinderella’s rags into a gorgeous gown, then sends her off to the Royal Ball. But Cinderella’s enchanted evening must end when the spell is broken at midnight. It will take the help of her daring animal friends, Jaq and Gus, and a perfect fit into a glass slipper to create the ultimate fairy tale ending.

“The Little Mermaid”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, Digital 3D, HD/SD, DVD
This highly celebrated winner of two Academy Awards® follows Ariel, a fun-loving and mischievous mermaid, who is off on the adventure of a lifetime with her best friend, the adorable Flounder, and the reggae-singing Caribbean crab Sebastian at her side. But it will take all of her courage and determination to make her dreams come true—and save her father’s beloved kingdom from the sneaky witch Ursula.

“Sleeping Beauty”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
When an enchanted kingdom and the fairest princess in the land fall prey to the ultimate mistress of evil, the fate of the empire rests in the hands of three small fairies and a courageous prince’s magic kiss. Their quest is fraught with peril as the spirited group must battle the evil witch and a fire-breathing dragon, if they are to set the Beauty free.

“The Princess and the Frog”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Enter Princess Tiana’s world of talking frogs, singing alligators and lovesick fireflies as she embarks on an incredible journey through the mystical bayous of Louisiana. Spurred on by a little bit of courage and a great big dream, these new friends come to realize what’s truly important in life … love, family and friendship.

“Brave”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, Digital 3D, HD/SD, DVD
The recipient of the 2012 Oscar® for best animated feature, “Brave” features the heroic journey of Merida, a skilled archer and headstrong daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom that inadvertently unleashes chaos in the kingdom. She must harness all of her skills and resources – including her clever and mischievous triplet brothers – to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late, and discover the meaning of true bravery.

“Pocahontas”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
“Pocahontas,” winner of two Academy-Awards®, tells the story of a free-spirited girl who wonders what adventures wait “Just Around the River Bend.” Pocahontas – along with her playful pals Meeko the raccoon and Flit the hummingbird – relies on the guidance of her loving and wise Grandmother Willow when English settlers arrive on the shores of her village. Her meeting with the courageous Captain John Smith leads to a friendship that bridges the gap between two cultures and changes history.

“Mulan”
Disney Movies Anywhere, Blu-ray, Digital HD/SD, DVD
Witness true courage as Mulan breaks tradition by joining the Imperial Army – accompanied by her hilarious guardian dragon, Mushu. Relive the wonder and excitement when Mulan’s adventures lead to a climactic battle in which her family’s honor and the fate of the entire country rest in her hands!

For nearly 80 years, audiences have followed the dreams and magical adventures of Disney Princesses including Belle, Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel and Merida. The timeless tales that introduced the world to these inspirational heroines include “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Tangled,” “Cinderella,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Brave,” “Pocahontas,” and “Mulan.” And now, for the first time ever, all 11 of these timeless family favorites will be available to purchase during the same six-week window. If you are a collector of Disney movies, or just love the princesses mark your calendar for this event now!