Get a Trim at the Harmony Barber Shop in the Magic Kingdom

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March 23, 2016

Did you know there is a real working barber shop on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom?

Located in between City Hall and the Emporium, you will find that famous red and white candy striped barber pole in front of the Harmony Barber Shop. Walking inside the shop is like taking a step back in time…

Our family has been getting haircuts here for the last several years, ever since we discovered it for our princess’s first haircut 4 years ago. The prices are reasonable and the kids love the magical touches.

Our most recent Disney vacation was pretty last minute so we were not able to make reservations ahead of time. During our first day at the Magic Kingdom, it was raining heavily. We decided we would check in to see if there were any slots available. We were told there would be about a 30 minute wait so we headed next door to the Emporium to browse around a bit.

After about 20 minutes, we walked back over to the barber shop and all 3 kiddos were seated right away. The stylists were very friendly and gave extra care to make sure the kids were having a good time. They got to play with light up toys and were given stickers while the stylists did an excellent job working on the kids haircuts.

There was a nice but very cozy sitting area where family could watch and take pictures. Afterwards, the kids got to choose between rainbow glitter or gold glitter.

At this point, Grampy decided he couldn’t let the children have all the fun and asked the stylists if they could give him a trim too. The stylists were so kind to fit him in as well and even let him play with the light up toys too! We were all pleased with the haircuts and the kids (including Grampy) had a magical time!

Prices:

Baby’s 1st Haircut (includes certificate, Mickey Ears and a keepsake lock of hair) $25
Child’s Haircut (9 and under) $18
Adult Haircut $19

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407-939-7529. No shows and cancellations less than 24 hours in advanced will be subject to a $10 fee. Walk-ins are welcome. Tips are also appreciated but must be made in cash.

If you would like to know more about how to add magical touches like this one to your Walt Disney World trip, be sure to contact me today! I would love to help book your next Disney vacation and share my expertise with you. Please feel free to email me any time at [email protected] or join my Facebook page here.

Narcoossee’s Restaurant to Offer New Wishes Fireworks Viewing Location

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 23, 2016

Narcoossee’s, located at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, has been testing a Wishes Dessert Party on Friday evenings during the month of March.

Although the 25th is the last scheduled date for the Dessert party, guests will still be able to admire a spectacular view of the fireworks show from the back dock of the restaurant on Friday evenings. Reservations are not required in order to enjoy this unique viewing spot nor is the dress code that is usually associated with signature dining restaurants. An outdoor bar will be available for guests to purchase drinks from. Advanced dining reservations for Narcoossee’s will still be available between the hours of 5:30pm and 10:00pm on these evenings by calling (407) WDW-DINE or through the Disney website.

If you plan on being in Walt Disney World on March 25th and would like to experience the last Narcoossee’s Wishes Dessert Party, then contact the restaurant directly at (407) 824-1400. The all-inclusive price is $62.43 per person, including tax and gratuity. The party will begin 30 minutes prior to Wishes and end approximately 15 minutes after its conclusion.

If you would like to experience Wishes Fireworks from the dock at Narcoossee’s Restaurant then contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation today. MickeyTravels is a Platinum Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner that offers complimentary Disney planning services.

Tee Public Site Wide Sale for March

By

Chip

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March 23, 2016

Great news the Tee Public Side Wide sale is on now!

Now through Sunday March 27th our friends at Tee Public is having their $14 Tee Shirt Sale! All Tee Shirts on the Chip and Co Store are included in this sale or you can check out some of the hot designs from other Disney Designers.

March TeePublic Sale:

Wed, March 23rd – Sun, March 27th

Deal Details:

T-Shirts – $14
Mens V-Neck – $18
Tanks – $18
Zip Up Hoodie – $38
Hoodies – $35
Crew necks – $30
BaseBall Tees – $17
LongSleeve Tees – $15
Scoop Neck – $21
Infant Onsie – $15
Kids Tees – $14
Prints and Canvas 25% Off

Just click here to check out all of the fun Disney or non Disney designs, or click here to check out some of our Disney Addict inspired designs.

D-Luxe Burger Restaurant in Disney Springs Opening this May

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 23, 2016

D-Luxe Burger is scheduled to open this May at the all new Town Center located in Disney Springs. There is no word yet on whether or not the dining plan will be accepted. The Disney owned and operated restaurant will feature gourmet beef, chicken and vegetarian burgers with unique toppings and freshly baked buns.

Complement your burger with freshly cut fries and your choice of dipping sauce.

Wash all that delicious goodness down with an Artisanal gelato shake with rotating flavors that may include Vanilla, Chocolate, Raspberry, Strawberry, Salted Caramel, Smores and Cake. For those who prefer a little extra kick, shakes with spirits include Smoked Bourbon and Beer and Godiva Raspberry. Root beer, Cherry Coke and orange soda floats along with hard sodas, draft beer and cider will also be featured.

If you still have room left for dessert then the Red Velvet Burger Macaron is the perfect way to finish off your meal. Each macaron is handcrafted to look just like a burger and even comes topped with raspberry ‘ketchup.’

There are a lot of exciting new restaurants and stores opening in Disney Springs this year. If you would like to visit the shopping, dining and entertainment district of Walt Disney World during your next vacation, then contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page to start planning today.

Police investigating a death at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

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Disney News

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March 22, 2016

It is being reported that the Orange County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a suicide at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Monorails were shutdown while the Sheriff’s Office conducted their investigation Tuesday afternoon.

A Disney spokesperson said everything was being handled by the sheriff’s office and that the monorail system was now running.

No other details have been released.

New Maz Kanata Bonus Clip from “The Force Awakens” Blu-Ray

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 22, 2016

The Digital HD and the Blu-Ray Combo pack release of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is just around the corner (April 1st & 5th), but I still am thrilled to see some sneak peeks of the extensive bonus features, I’m just too excited to wait! The latest clip from one of the bonus features shows actress Lupita Nyong’o filming her role as Maz Kanata (Nyong’o will also be playing Raksha in Disney’s “The Jungle Book”). Although Maz Kanata was CGI, Nyong’o still physically acted out the part, using motion capture technology, which you can view in the clip here. With such an incredible actress not only voicing but acting out the part on set, it is no wonder that Maz Kanata, although CGI, seemed incredibly real.

Also released today on the official Star Wars app was a brand new Maz emoji! Isn’t it just too cute?

If you don’t have the app yet, it’s available for download in the app store, and you can learn more about it on their site.

I can’t wait to find out more about bringing the character Maz Kanata to life on-screen once I watch the bonus features, she’s such an intriguingly mysterious character. It’ll be interesting to see her more of her story possibly be revealed in the upcoming episodes, and maybe we will even find out just how she got Luke’s lightsaber, and more about her history of knowing Han Solo and Leia.

Be on the lookout later on for our review of the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Blu-Ray and all of its bonus features!

Last Minute Ideas for Disney Themed Easter Baskets

By

Danielle

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March 22, 2016

Can you believe Easter is less than a week away? I sure can’t! If you’re like me you might be looking for some fun Disney themed goodies to add in last minute. Luckily with Amazon Prime we can get lots of fun basket stuffers in 2 days with free shipping! Here’s some of our favorite goodies to add to those magical Disney baskets.

Mickey Mouse Jelly Belly Jelly Beans

Jelly beans are a long standing staple of Easter baskets, so of course we’re going to need some Mickey Mouse Jelly Belly beans! Jelly Belly jelly beans truly are the best there is, and with the most intriguing flavors ever!

Goofy Candy Co. Assorted Flavor Sour Character Gummies

There is more than just jelly beans to add to baskets though, these fun sour character gummies from the Disney Parks also make a great addition to a yummy Disney Easter basket.

Ty Beanie Babies Mickey Sparkle Plush

Small bean bag characters make a great touch to Easter baskets for all ages!

The Bunny Surprise (Disney/Pixar Toy Story)

Books are a great addition to an Easter basket because not only do they add color and design, but having a fun holiday story brings joys and smiles.

Disney Mickey Mouse 18 Piece Art Set

Small travel size art supplies are always fun. They not only make a great addition to the basket, but are useful for bringing on road trips, or when having dinner out! I love gifts that have a lasting use!

Frozen Easter Egg Hunt Bundle

Of course there’s nothing like having everything all set up and ready to go! This fun set includes a basket, and 16 pre-filled eggs to get you off to a hopping start!

So if you’re in need of some Easter Basket essentials and need them quick Amazon Prime is a great no fuss way to find cute stuff, and avoid all of the holiday traffic and lines!

What theme will your Easter Baskets be this year?

FP+ Option Removed From Magic Kingdom Parades

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 22, 2016

2016 03 22 09 58 54 Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade “Peter Pan” Walt Disney World News

It was recently announced that a FastPass+ option would no longer be available for Wishes fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Apparently the Festival of Fantasy Parade and Main Street Electrical Parade are next on the chopping block. Beginning today, the special viewing location for both parades are no longer an option when making FastPass+ selections. It should be interesting to see how this decision will impact availability for other Magic Kingdom attractions now that there are three less FastPass+ selections to choose from.

If you are interested in a Walt Disney World vacation then contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to get started. MickeyTravels is a Platinum Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner that offers complimentary Disney planning services.

More details available for Magic Kingdom’s “After Hours” events

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 22, 2016

Yesterday we made an announcement about a new, separate ticketed series of “After Dark” events available to purchase on April 6, for select nights at Magic Kingdom Park for $149 per ticket. There weren’t very many details released, and it left all of us with so very many questions about this new ticketed event. Luckily, today Disney has released some more information about these events on their website, so I would like to share the new details with you all!

More Magic in Less Time

Treat yourself to a classic Magic Kingdom experience—complete with select attractions, ice cream novelties and more.By purchasing a ticket to Disney After Hours, you can make the most of a truly magical occasion when Magic Kingdom park lets you in for the last few hours of the day… and then stays open for 3 extra hours at night, just for Guests of the event!

This is your chance to fit in even more theme park fun, all while enjoying many of the most popular attractions and Character Greetings around—such as:

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Disney Princess Greetings at Princess Fairytale Hall
Peter Pan’s Flight
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Space Mountain
And much, much more!

Ice Cream Novelties & Select Beverages Included!
In the midst of the laughs and thrills, be sure to chill out with ice cream novelties and select bottled beverages—included with the cost of admission—available at carts stationed through the park. In addition, you can also purchase select menu items at Casey’s Corner and STARBUCKS® Coffee and specialty beverages from Main Street Bakery.

And remember: admission is limited to only a select number of Guests. Be sure to purchase your tickets today!

Important Details for Disney After Hours

Learn all you need to know about Disney After Hours—including when you can check-in and enter the park.

Official check-in for the event will take place at the Main Entrance to the theme park beginning at 7:00 PM.
Please note that Magic Kingdom park will officially close to Guests who haven’t purchased Disney After Hours tickets at 10:00 PM on April 28 and May 5, 2016; and at 11:00 PM on April 14 and 21, and May 8, 12 and 19, 2016.
Walt Disney World Resort hotel Guests—including those staying at Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel and Walt Disney World Swan Hotel—may use Walt Disney World Transportation after the event for up to 2 hours.
Please note that the number of tickets available is limited. In addition, all tickets are non-refundable, non-transferrable and are only valid for admission during the special event date and hours.
All attractions, entertainment and experiences are subject to change without notice.

Event dates are as follows:

April 28 and May 5, 2016 from 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM
April 14 and 21, and May 8, 12 and 19, 2016 from 11:00 PM to 2:00 AM

I’m not sure what you think, but it sure seems to be a steep price for only selected rides and attractions for such a small window of time.

If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks vacation, or would like more information on Disney After Hours, 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. Contact me today at [email protected] or you can find me on my facebook page here.

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Story of compassionate Fairy Godmother goes viral

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 22, 2016

Behind this seemingly normal interaction between Fairy Godmother and a Disney guest is a story of heartfelt compassion, grief and kindness. Inside of the teddy bear lay the ashes of Janice Murphy’s daughter, Annaliese. Murphy shared her appreciation of this moment in a Facebook post on Monday that has since gone viral.

In less than 24 hours, her post has been shared over 12k times.

Via Janice Maureen Murphy:

To the Fairy Godmother I didn’t know I needed,

You had no idea the young woman that was holding a purple teddy bear was me. I was just another stranger, waiting in line to meet a character at the most magical place on Earth. I was smiling but you didn’t know I spent 10 minutes in tears over the things my daughter will never experience. You had no idea what that purple teddy bear represents to me.

Despite your utter lack of knowledge, you included the bear in our interaction…. And when you found out that my daughter died, and that her ashes are within the bear, you treated her the same way you treat every child that comes to see you every single day: with love, compassion and kindness. When you hugged her, and kissed her cheek, you made me feel like Analiese mattered to you.

You may not ever see this, and even if you do, you may not remember us. But I will always remember you, and how you hugged and loved on my daughter as if she was like any other child. You helped me feel her spirit in a place she was never able to visit while alive.

Thank you thank you thank you.

Love,
Analiese’s mommy.

Unfortunately, Fairy Godmother will no longer be making regular appearances at the Magic Kingdom due to budget cuts. What a beautiful way to say both hello and goodbye all at the very same time.

If you would like to plan a magical Walt Disney World vacation then email me at [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here. MickeyTravels is a Platinum Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner that offers complimentary Disney planning services.

Photo credit: Janice Maureen Murphy

Will Tower of Terror receive a Guardians of the Galaxy makeover?

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 22, 2016

Rumors are circulating that Disney’s beloved Tower of Terror could potentially receive a Guardians of the Galaxy makeover. It is believed that Disney’s California Adventure will be adding a Marvel themed land to its park beginning in January 2017 and the re-imagining of Tower of Terror could be the first step. Unfortunately, Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios might not be too far behind. The storyline would be based on a visit to the Collector’s mansion from the movie. It is possible that the new theme could just be a seasonal overlay in Florida that coincides with the May 2017 release of Guardians of the Galaxy 2.

Due to an existing contract with Universal Studios, Walt Disney World is unable to include the name “Marvel” on any of their theme park attractions. The characters from Guardians of the Galaxy appear to be an exception to that rule, although nothing official has been announced yet. Would you be upset to see the classic Tower of Terror attraction transformed into a modern day Guardians of the Galaxy ride or would you welcome the change?

If you would like to visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios to get a first hand look at all of the exciting (and controversial) changes happening in the park, then email [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here. MickeyTravels is a Platinum Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner that offers complimentary Disney planning services.

Meet Ridley Pearson: Author of Kingdom Keepers Series at Disney World on March 25th & 26th

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 22, 2016

Attention fans of the popular Kingdom Keepers novels! Author Ridley Pearson will be in Walt Disney World on 3/25 and 3/26 for a special signing of his new second book in The Return series: “Legacy of Secrets”. The book is due to hit shelves on March 29th but Disney guests can get their hands on an autographed copy at the following locations and dates:

March 25, 2016 – Art of Disney in Disney Springs Marketplace from 4-6pm

March 26, 2016 – Mouse Gear in Epcot from 10am-1pm.

Wristbands will be distributed upon store opening to guests when they purchase a book by Ridley Pearson. A wristband from the appearance location is required to meet the author and will allow the guest to have up to two books signed. A limited number of wristbands will be available on the day of signing. The line to meet Ridley Pearson will close once all of the wristbands have been distributed.

The Kingdom Keepers is a series of children’s novels written by the New York Times Best Selling author Ridley Pearson and published through Disney and Disney Hyperion. The books feature the adventures of five teenagers who are holographic hosts in the Disney theme parks during the day and battle Disney Villains for control of the parks at night.

If your children are fans of the Kingdom Keepers novels and would like to experience the theme parks in person, then contact [email protected] to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation today.

Photo credit: www.ridleypearson.com