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What You Need To Know If You’re Going to Disney World on New Year’s

December 18, 2015

Every year, revelers from all over the world flock to Disney to ring in the New Year. I know Times Square gets a lot of the love during this time of year, but Disney is a destination not to be missed if you are looking for a place to celebrate in style. With that said, visiting the parks to count down those last ten seconds to midnight requires some preparation and planning. If you are looking to visit Disney World for New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, here’s some information that might be helpful!

What are the operating hours?

Here are the posted operating hours as of 12/15/15. These times are subject to change, so please check with a Cast Member the day before you visit the parks to ensure you have the most up-to-date information. The information is also available in the My Disney Experience App.

New Year’s Eve, Thursday, December 31:

Magic Kingdom: hours are 8:00 am – 2:00 am (Extra Magic Hours from 7:00-8:00 am)
Epcot – Future World: hours are 8:00 am – 1:00 am
Epcot – World Showcase: hours are 9:00 am – 1:00 am
Hollywood Studios: hours are 8:00 am – 12:00 am (Extra Magic Hours from 12:00-2:00 am)
Animal Kingdom: hours are 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Disney Springs: hours are 10:00 am – 12:00 am
Typhoon Lagoon: hours are 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Blizzard Beach: closed until January 2nd

New Year’s Day, Friday, January 1:

Magic Kingdom: hours are 8:00 am – 1:00 am (Extra Magic Hours from 7:00-8:00 am)
Epcot – Future World: hours are 9:00 am – 9:00 pm (Extra Magic Hours from 9:00 pm-11:00 pm)
Epcot – World Showcase: hours are 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (Extra Magic Hours from 9:00 pm-11:00 pm)
Hollywood Studios: hours are 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Animal Kingdom: hours are 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Typhoon Lagoon: hours are 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

How crowded will the parks be?

You know what it looks like in Times Square – truth is, Disney won’t be too far off. It will be very crowded, so you will need to change your normal expectations around personal space for one night. There is a good chance that the park will go through some type of phased closure during the day, too – click here for our handy guide around phased closures at Disney and what they mean. If you are looking to be at the parks for the midnight countdown, it is highly recommended that you get to the parks early and do not leave until after the fireworks are done. Yes, that means you stay in the parks, without leaving, from opening to midnight. Consider renting a locker for your personal belongings, and consider bringing layers of clothing in case it gets chilly in the evening.

What special events and activities will there be?

Here are some New Year’s-themed special events inside and outside of the parks:

Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks (Magic Kingdom) – this breathtaking fireworks display at the heart of Cinderella’s castle will go off ten minutes before midnight. Special tip: this fireworks show will also be displayed on December 30 if you want to celebrate earlier and avoid the sure-to-be packed Main Street on the 31st.
Illuminations: Reflections of Earth Fireworks (Epcot) – what is normally a grand fireworks show becomes even more special to ring in the New Year. There will be two viewings at 6:00pm and 11:40pm. There will also be DJs and live music throughout the World Showcase, in true international style of course, to get the crowds ready to bring in 2016.
Lights! Camera, Happy New Year! Fireworks Show (Hollywood Studios) – it’s a rock n rolling good time at Hollywood Studios with fireworks at midnight. The show is scheduled to take place near the Hyperion Theater.
La Hacienda de San Angel (Epcot) – with seating that begins at 9:30 pm, this special spot in the Mexico Pavilion is offering a five-course prix-fixe dinner combined with alcohol pairings. There is a mariachi band, other live entertainment, margaritas to enjoy, and of course, a view of Illuminations.
Le Cellier Steakhouse (Epcot) – this signature restaurant is offering a special four-course meal with seatings at 4:30pm, 6:45pm and 9:00pm. Lunch is also available on New Year’s Eve from 11:30am to 2:00pm.
Monsieur Paul (Epcot) – this lovely restaurant in France has a special 3-course menu. Seatings are available at 11:45am, 12:00pm, 2:15pm and 2:45pm for lunch and 5:45pm, 6:15pm, 8:45pm and 9:45pm for dinner.
Countdown to Midnight (Yacht & Beach Club Resort) – this brand new party at the Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center is a great way to ring in the New Year. There is live entertainment, including comedy, dancing, and a live band, as well as endless food & drink options. Happy New Year, indeed!
Atlantic Dance Hall (BoardWalk Inn) – enjoy a live band, see Illuminations at midnight, and have a champagne toast to ring in the New Year. There’s even a special VIP experience, which includes access to the VIP section, which includes a dedicated bartender and a dessert bar.
Narcoossee’s (Grand Floridian Resort) – this fantastic restaurant overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon will be serving a four-course meal, with first seating between 5:00pm and 5:55pm and the second seating between 8:45pm and 9:40pm.
Victoria & Albert’s (Grand Floridian Resort) – celebrate in grand style with a ten-course menu that includes 8 savory courses and two dessert courses. There is also an option to do a nine-course wine pairing.
Chef Mickey’s (Contemporary Resort) – the iconic restaurant will have a special New Year’s Day menu.
California Grill (Contemporary Resort) – plenty of food stations will be scattered throughout the restaurant. There is an open bar all evening, and you can cap off the night with an amazing view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

What other tips do you have for me?

Because peak crowd levels are expected over New Year’s, here are some tips to help you navigate through the crowds:

Plan as much as you can ahead of time. This especially includes fast passes and dining reservations.
Consider eating at off-peak times to avoid the long lines at quick service locations.
The parking lots can get full pretty quickly. Disney transportation, if available to you, is a good alternative.
If there is a phased closure at the park and you can’t get in at a certain time of day, keep checking. Although chances are slim, there’s a chance restriction levels may change at some point during the day.
It’s New Year’s so get dressed in your best 2016 attire!
There will be long lines – at bag check, at the rides, at quick service locations, at stores. A little patience and a lot of Disney good cheer goes a long way!
Find a PhotoPass photographer, and ask for holiday-themed Magic Shots!
There are many special treats and meals to choose from, so indulge before the New Year’s resolution kicks in!

With that, I will turn it over to you. What else do our visitors need to know if they are going to Disney World on New Year’s? What tips have worked well for you when you visited during this time of year? Sound off in the comments below!

Hi there, I’m Myra and I’m a huge Disney nerd and addict! I’m also an Independent Travel Agent at World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co. and Disney Addicts. I’m happy to help you plan a holiday trip you’ve always wanted, at no cost to you! Please visit mypage or send me an email at [email protected] to get started!

ABC Family’s Days of Faves Programming Schedule!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 17, 2015

logo abc family

The shopping is done, the presents are unwrapped, and the holiday hustle and bustle is finally over! ABC Family gives you the perfect reason to sit back, relax and watch some of your favorite movies before the new year begins. So put off coming up with a new year’s resolution and invite your friends over when ABC Family’s “Days of Faves” programming event kicks off with a weekend dedicated to Harry Potter and his friends, starting Saturday, December 26th and continuing through Thursday, December 31st, 2015.

The schedule is as follows:

Saturday, December 26th
(7AM-10:45AM ET/PT) HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE
Based on J.K. Rowling’s popular novels about the boy who lived, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” introduces fans to Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) who learns on his 11th birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. Invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry embarks on the adventure of a lifetime. At Hogwarts, he finds the home and the family he has never had.

(10:45AM-3PM ET/PT) HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS
After a long summer with the horrid Dursleys, Harry Potter is thwarted in his attempts to board the train to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to begin his second year. Harry’s only transportation option is a magical flying car, but unfortunately, it crashes into a valuable (and clearly vexed) Whomping Willow. Still, all this seems like a day in the park compared to what awaits Harry that fall within the haunted halls of Hogwarts. Chilling, malevolent voices whisper from the walls only to Harry and it seems certain his classmate Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton) is out to get him. Soon it’s not just Harry who is worried about survival as dreadful things begin to happen at the school. The mysteriously gleaming foot-high words on the wall proclaim: “The Chamber of Secrets Has Been Opened. Enemies of the Heir, Beware.” But what exactly does it all mean? Harry, Hermione (Emma Watson) and Ron (Rupert Grint) risk their own lives to solve this 50-year-old, potentially deadly mystery.

(3PM-6:15PM ET/PT) HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN
Harry, Ron and Hermione return for a third term at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. But Harry’s fate looks bleak when the infamous Sirius Black (Gary Oldman), who was convicted of killing 13 people with a single curse, escapes from prison. The only clue to where Sirius is headed: The Azkaban guards heard Black muttering in his sleep “He’s at Hogwarts … He’s at Hogwarts.” Even within the walls of his magical school, Harry may not be safe from a convicted killer.

(6:15PM-10PM ET/PT) HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE
It’s Harry Potter’s fourth term at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Harry, Ron and Hermione look forward to the international Quidditch finals. Harry dreams of spending time with the alluring Cho Chang. He wants to be a normal 14-year-old wizard; but Harry is not normal — even by wizarding standards. This term, for the first time in hundreds of years, a competition will be held between three schools of wizardry, and contestants will be magically chosen for the very dangerous event. Now, as Harry’s lightning scar burns, indicating the evil presence of Lord Voldemort, the Goblet of Fire makes its final selection for the competition — Harry Potter. “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” repeats on Sunday, December 27th at 7am ET/PT.

(10PM-10:30PM) BEYOND THE SHADOWS: THE MAKING OF SHADOWHUNTERS
“Beyond the Shadows: The Making of Shadowhunters” will give fans of The Mortal Instruments book series a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the making of the television show, which will include the cast talking about how they landed their roles and a glimpse into how the cast got into fighting shape. For viewers who are new to the Shadow World, the cast explains what “Shadowhunters” is all about. “Beyond the Shadows: The Making of Shadowhunters” will include interviews with “Shadowhunters” cast members Katherine McNamara, Dominic Sherwood, Harry Shum, Jr., Alberto Rosende, Matthew Daddario, Emeraude Toubia and Isaiah Mustafa, as well as showrunner Ed Decter and executive producer McG. “Beyond the Shadows: The Making of Shadowhunters” is produced by Big Door, Inc. and Jen X Productions, Inc., with Jennifer Erwin as executive producer and Max Yoffe as co-executive producers. “Beyond the Shadows: The Making of Shadowhunters” repeats on Wednesday, December 30th at 5pm ET/PT.

(10:30PM-1:30AM ET/PT) HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX
A summer has passed since Harry’s encounter with the Dark Lord (Ralph Fiennes), and Harry returns to learn that the wizarding community remains in denial about Voldemort’s return. The minister of magic believes Headmaster Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) is lying and assigns a member of his staff, Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton), to be the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. When her Ministry-approved course leaves young wizards woefully unprepared to protect themselves against the dark forces threatening them, Hermione and Ron urge Harry to take charge. Meeting secretly with a small group of students who name themselves “Dumbledore’s Army,” Harry teaches them how to defend themselves against the Dark Arts and prepares the courageous young wizards for the extraordinary battle that lies ahead. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” repeats on Sunday, December 27th at 10:30am ET/PT.

Sunday, December 27th
(1:30PM-5:00PM) HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE
Harry returns to Hogwarts for his sixth year and faces a growing danger that may be more than a match for his strengthening powers as a wizard. While Death Eaters emboldened by the return of Lord Voldemort wreak havoc in both the Muggle and Wizarding worlds, Harry suspects new dangers lie within Hogwarts. Dumbledore, racing to prepare Harry for a battle he knows is fast approaching, brings him on a perilous mission to find the key to unlock Voldemort’s defenses. Meanwhile, the students face a different adversary as teenage hormones rage: Harry’s friendship with Ginny Weasley (Bonnie Wright) grows into something deeper; Lavender Brown (Jessie Cave) lavishes her affections on Ron, while Hermione simmers with jealousy; and a box of love potion-laced chocolates ends up in the wrong hands. “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” repeats on Monday, December 28th at 11am ET/PT.
(5PM-8:45PM) HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS: PART ONE
In the first part of the seventh and final adventure, Harry, Ron and Hermione set out on their perilous mission to track down and destroy the secret to Voldemort’s immortality and destruction — the Horcruxes. On their own, without guidance from their professors or the protection of Dumbledore, the three friends must now rely on one another more than ever. But there are Dark Forces in their midst that threaten to tear them apart. Meanwhile, the wizarding world has become a dangerous place for all enemies of the Dark Lord. The long-feared war has begun and Voldemort’s Death Eaters seize control of the Ministry of Magic and even Hogwarts, terrorizing and arresting anyone who might oppose them. But the one prize they still seek is the one most valuable to Voldemort: Harry Potter. The Chosen One has become the hunted one as the Death Eaters search for Harry with orders to bring him to Voldemort…alive. Harry’s only hope is to find the Horcruxes before Voldemort finds him. But as he searches for clues, he uncovers an old and almost forgotten tale — the legend of the Deathly Hallows. And if the legend turns out to be true, it could give Voldemort the ultimate power he seeks. Little does Harry know that his future has already been decided by his past when, on that fateful day, he became “The Boy Who Lived.” No longer just a boy, Harry Potter is drawing ever closer to the task for which he has been preparing since the day he first stepped into Hogwarts: the ultimate battle with Voldemort. “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One” repeats on Monday, December 28th at 2:30pm ET/PT.
(8:45PM-12AM) HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS: PART TWO
The motion picture event of the generation comes to a close in the second part of the final chapter in the monumental Harry Potter series. The boy wizard’s adventure concludes with the climactic final battle between “The Boy Who Lived” and Lord Voldemort. Making their final stand upon the ramparts of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry, Ron and Hermione face their greatest foe and make the ultimate sacrifice. “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two” repeats on Monday, December 28th at 6pm ET/PT.
Monday, December 28th
(9PM-12AM) HOCUS POCUS
After moving to Salem, Massachusetts, teenager Max Dennison (Omri Katz) explores an abandoned house with his sister Dani (Thora Birch) and their new friend, Allison (Vinessa Shaw). After dismissing a story Allison tells as superstitious, Max accidentally frees a coven of evil witches (Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy) who used to live in the house. Now, with the help of a magical cat, the kids must steal the witches’ book of spells to stop them from becoming immortal.
Tuesday, December 29th
(5PM-8:15PM) TWILIGHT: EXTENDED EDITION
In the supernatural romantic drama “Twilight,” the new girl in town, Bella (Kristen Stewart), falls for the hottest guy in school — not knowing the mysterious, elusive Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) is actually part of a vampire family, and sworn enemy of Bella’s childhood friend Jacob (Taylor Lautner). Their newfound love opens Bella’s eyes to a secret world, but also puts her in unimaginable danger. This special extended edition includes deleted scenes. “Twilight: Extended Edition” repeats on Wednesday, December 30th at 1:45pm ET/PT.

(8:15PM-11PM) PITCH PERFECT
Arriving at her new college, Beca (Anna Kendrick) finds herself not right for any clique but somehow is muscled into one that she never would have picked on her own: alongside mean girls, sweet girls and weird girls whose only thing in common is how good they sound when they sing together. When Beca leads this a cappella singing group out of their traditional arrangement and perfect harmonies into all-new mash-ups, they fight to climb their way to the top of the college music competitions. “Pitch Perfect” is an outrageously hilarious laugh-out-loud comedy that also stars Anna Camp (“The Help”), Brittany Snow (“Hairspray”) and Rebel Wilson (“Bridesmaids”). “Pitch Perfect” repeats on Wednesday, December 30th at 5:30pm ET/PT.

Wednesday, December 30th
(8:15PM-11PM) GREASE
When good girl Sandy (Olivia Newton-John) met bad boy greaser Danny Zuko (John Travolta) during the summer and fell in love, they never expected to see each other again. But fate has different ideas, and the star-crossed lovers end up at the same high school, only to be continuously kept apart by their social differences. Danny is the leader of the T-Birds, which makes him the coolest guy in school with the biggest reputation. Although Sandy has made some friends, she is belittled by some of the Pink Ladies for her wholesome and proper ways. Will Sandy and Danny stay true to who they are, or will they accept change in order to be with the one that they want?

Thursday, December 31st
(6PM-8:30PM) ENCHANTED
For princess-to-be Giselle (Amy Adams), life in the animated land of Andalasia truly is a fairy tale, filled with song, talking animals and the love of a handsome prince. But without any warning, she’s banished by her future mother-in-law, the evil Queen Narissa (Susan Sarandon), and thrust into the very un-magical, live-action world of modern-day Manhattan. When Robert (Patrick Dempsey), a cynical, no-nonsense divorce lawyer reluctantly comes to her aid, he has no idea how much this joyful, wide-eyed innocent is about to enchant him and change his life forever.

(8:30PM-11PM) PRINCESS DIARIES 2: ROYAL ENGAGEMENT
As future queen of Genovia, Princess Mia (Anne Hathaway) has everything a girl could want — except the magical romance she’s always dreamed of. But soon, Mia’s shocked to discover she needs to get married right now or her family will lose the crown! Comic complications rule the day in this delightful family story about finding out who you really are and discovering what it takes to make your dreams come true!
ABC Family is to be renamed Freeform on January 12, 2016

Stay tuned for more!

Personal Items that CAN be Brought Into the Disney Theme Parks!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 17, 2015

The times that we live in are changing and large companies, such as Disney, have to change with them. On the heels of recent tragedies throughout the world Disney has implanted changes to security to include what can be brought into their theme parks. So instead of discussing what cannot be brought into the parks, let’s focus on what CAN be brought into the Disney theme and water parks.

Coolers – Coolers that do not exceed 24” long x 15” wide x 18” high (61cm x 38cm x 46cm) are permitted.
Food – Park guests are allowed to bring their own snacks and food that does not require heating into the parks for their enjoyment. Baby food in small glass containers is also permitted. I like to use Garden Grocer to order food and have it delivered to my room!
Water – Guests are also permitted to bring their own water or other non-alcoholic drink that are not in glass containers into the parks. Water fountains are located all over the parks for easy and FREE refills.
Strollers, wheelchairs, ECVs – Mobility devices and strollers that do not exceed 36” x 52” are permitted in the Disney parks. Guests can bring their own or they can rent one, from Disney or a third party company.
Service Animals – Service animals are allowed into the theme parks, however due to the nature of some attractions they may not be allowed to ride.
Bags – Purses, backpacks, small duffel bags, and shopping bags that do not exceed the 24” x 15” x by 18” rule are permitted. All bags will be searched prior to entrance to the parks.
Recording Devices – Camera and video camera are allowed as long as the recordings are not for commercial use.
Costumes – Costumes to include masks are permitted to be worn ONLY by children age 13 and under, this includes for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Masks may not hinder vision.
Cigarettes – Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and other smoke or vapor producing products are permitted to be brought into the parks, however smoking is only permitted in designated areas.

This list is not all inclusive, but it does include items that could bring forth questions from guests planning a trip. Other items besides these may also be brought into the parks. For information on what items are not permitted to be brought into the parks check out the Disney World and/or Disneyland Park Rules.

What are your thoughts on the recent changes? Let us know in the comments!

Although some changes are being made around the Disney Parks they should not affect the Magic of a Disney vacation.

My name is Miriya Whitaker, I am a travel agent with World of Magic Travel, and a writer for Chip and Co and Disney Addicts. I would love to help you plan your next magical vacation! Contact me at [email protected] to get started and follow me on Facebook for more Disney and travel information!

The Purple Retail Magic Band Finally Coming Soon to Walt Disney World Resort

Danielle

December 17, 2015

Purple Magic band

The purple Magic Band has been the most begged for color of the bands for Walt Disney World Parks visitors since the bands were introduced. Earlier this fall Disney introduced a purple option for guests who create retail MagicBands at the Tomorrowland Light & Power CoFinally. Soon guests will be able to find the elusive individual purple retail MagicBand in select Walt Disney World Resort merchandise locations.

The solid purple Magic Band will be joining the other solid colors available for retail sometime this month. There are already quite a few of the character and themed bands now featuring purple heavily as a color like The Haunted Mansion Disney Parks MagicBand and the Disney Villains Disney Parks MagicBand.

Other fun designs have included the Disney Junior Bands, perfect for the preschooler Disney Parks visitor.

Doc McStuffins Disney Parks MagicBand

Jake and the Never Land Pirates Disney Parks MagicBand

Sofia the First Disney Parks MagicBand

I love all the amazing options for customizing your bands while vacationing at the Parks, which ones have you collected so far?

*Images from Disney Parks Blog and the Disney Store

Top 5 Homemade Star Wars Items You Must Own

Danielle

December 17, 2015

I’m sure it’s no surprise that we’ve got a little Star Wars fever going on this week. I just can’t stop scrolling through and looking for new Star Wars goodies to help countdown the hours until I can see this long anticipated movie. I’ve found some totally awesome every day Star Wars branded items, but I’ve also found some unique home-made Star Wars items too!

Check out the 5 Top items I think any Star Wars fan would love:

5.) A cute Star Wars Mug with a clever play on words. This hilarious mug from FloridaKeysMomma, Looks like the scrolling words on-screen before our beloved movies with a fun twist on a popular saying.

4.) BB-8 T-Shirt. Not much is known about this little droid yet, but it can’t be denied that he is not only adorable, but already very popular too! I think BootsArt has captured the cuteness of BB-8 with a little bit of humor quite well!

3.) Yoda Cutting Board. Cook you must, with this custom engraved cutting board from HeartwarmingGift. They can even be personalized!

2.) Star Wars Vinyl Wall Clock. This amazing clock from Vinylastico is simplistic, yet filled with so much detail. Even though the record features all of our favorite characters as cut out silhouettes within, it’s also styled to look like the Death Star! Now we can tell time with The Force!

1.) I Love You, I know collectible pillows set. Han Solo is one of my favorite parts of the original Star Wars trilogy. His well delivered lines never cease to creak me up, especially “Never tell me the odds” and “I know” when Leia says she loves him. I found this pillow set at slushieprints, and I can NOT get enough of how witty this pillow set is!

I hope you enjoyed checking out some of my favorite Home Made Star Wars goodies! Did we miss any favorites on your list?

Exclusive First Look at ‘The Lego Movie 4D A New Adventure’

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 17, 2015

TLM 4D ADVENTURE Logo Flat MED 14

For the first time ever, LEGOLAND® Parks are offering a first look at an exciting new theme park attraction that reunites the stars of “The LEGO® Movie™” in an all-new story appearing exclusively at LEGOLAND® theme parks and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centers in 2016.

The 30-second clip released today gives fans the first glimpse of what happened after the blockbuster movie, when Emmet, Wyldstyle, Unikitty, MetalBeard and Benny reunite at the invitation of a shady new character, Risky Business, who plans to open a curious theme park bearing a suspicious resemblance to LEGOLAND®.

“The LEGO® Movie™ 4D A New Adventure” will premiere Friday, Jan. 29, 2016 at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven, Fla., followed by LEGOLAND® California Resort in Carlsbad, Calif., on Saturday, Feb. 6. The attraction will debut later at LEGOLAND® theme parks and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centers worldwide.

Returning to voice their iconic characters are actors Elizabeth Banks (Wyldstyle), Nick Offerman (MetalBeard), Charlie Day (Benny) and Alison Brie (Unikitty). Actor, writer and comedian Patton Oswalt lends his voice to the scheming Risky Business, whose Evil Secret Plot requires the heroes to call on the Master Builder skills of a surprise ally to save the day.

The short 3D film will play several times a day at each LEGOLAND® site, with “4D” effects such as wind, water, fog and more bringing the action bursting off the screen and into the audience. This great attraction is a great way for LEGOLAND to lead up to the long-awaited ‘The Lego Movie Sequel” set to open on May 18th, 2018.

There are so many new additions to the LEGOLAND Parks, especially LEGOLAND Florida! For more information on visiting one of the LEGOLAND Theme Parks, contact me [email protected]

For a sneak peek at the movie, watch the video below:

SeaWorld and Universal installing Metal Detectors at their theme parks

Disney News

December 17, 2015

News out of Orlando today, SeaWorld and Universal Studios are following Disney with adding metal detectors at the entrances of their theme parks. SeaWorld has already started this at the beginning of the Holiday season and Universal Orlando is testing the metal detectors out now. We do not know how long either park will use the metal detectors or they will be a permanent fixtures. We all know as time goes on attractions and big theme parks need to heighten security due to the rise in terror threats and extremist attacks.

On Wednesday, the federal Department of Homeland Security issued a bulletin saying it was “especially concerned that terrorist-inspired individuals and homegrown violent extremists may be encouraged or inspired to target public events or places.”

I know this will hold up lines and make our wait longer but it is worth it. I appreciate they take safety and security seriously. Please do not take your frustration out on the CM’s they are just doing their jobs.

What do you think?

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Media Screening Preview

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 17, 2015

The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank was the site of the Star Wars: The Force Awakens media preview. Having attended many movie previews, I was very surprised to see the amount of security measures taken to ensure there were no spoilers. After a double-check in process and need to relinquish our cell phones, we made our way to our seats. The packed theater became silent at the dimming of the lights and we had our first look at Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

The film’s basic story is about the Resistance (good guys) and First Order (bad guys) in a battle to gain control. Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) has disappeared and no one knows where he is. Storm Troppers are still a huge part of the film and new characters, both good and evil are revealed. A new Supreme Leader, Snoke (Andy Serkis) and a new evil villian – Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) are the main characters on the dark side. The new team on the good side includes Rey (Daisy Ridley), Ex-Stormtropper Finn (John Boyega), X-wing pilot, Poe (Oscar Isaac) and of course my favorite, BB-8. Together they team up for non stop action at every turn and an incredible lightsaber duel that will have fans cheering, crying and in shock at the ending. Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew), C-3Po (Anthony Daniels) and R2D2 (Kenny Baker) are back to help the new team in the fight against evil.

The first film in the next trilogy, Star Wars: The Force Awakens gives us a taste of things to come and sets up the story line for the newcomers – Rey and Finn. On the dark side, Kylo Ren as the main villian wearing a mask that is similar to Dark Vader’s provides the biggest shock of the film.

In the tradition of Star Wars films, this one follows the script with one of a kind action scenes, space battles, heart stopping and edge of your seat moments that will leave you speechless. JJ Abrams brings us old favorites and newcomers with some familiar moments from previous films but does so without giving the feeling of recycling scenes. Instead Star Wars: The Force Awakens provides a starting point for a new generation of characters on both sides while providing fans with some clarification of previous major events that will continue to tie together the pieces of the Star Wars saga. The original characters bring a sense of comfort and support to the new generation instead of trying to overshadow them. The newcomers bring hope and youth to the Resistance but also a bit of uncertainty of their powers and abilities. The ability to make Kylo Ren appear amateurish and evil at the same time is a feat that JJ Abrams and Adam Driver pull off flawlessly. Daisy Ridley shines through as a strong female character and secures a future spot for many films to come.

Full of incredible special effects and unexpected twists and turns, Star Wars: The Force Awakens is off to an Oscar-winning start. JJ Abrams has taken his first shot as Director of a Star Wars film and won the battle. The only negative part is the long wait for the next film!

Do NOT miss this incredible new Star Wars film and get ready to be blown away with all the surprises and story twists! Debuting in theaters, this Friday, December 18th. Follow us along on www.chipandco.com for all your Disney and Star Wars news and updates.

Disney updates Prohibited Items on the Disney Cruise Line and Castaway Cay

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 17, 2015

One of the most exciting times is packing for your upcoming adventure aboard the Disney Cruise Line. While you are packing, you will definitely want to keep in mind that Disney Cruise Line does have restrictions on what items are are allowed and not allowed to bring on board and on Castaway Cay, their private island in the Bahamas. Just like when traveling by air, all luggage is screened to ensure that all guests on board will have magical time without any unnecessary interruptions. Here’s a list of things to leave at home to ensure smooth sailing on your next Disney cruise:

Firearms, ammunition, knives (including dive knives), swords, daggers and any other types of weapons
Toy guns or other replicas of firearms and weapons
Highly flammable liquids and combustible substances
Liquid oxygen
Non-prescribed controlled substances, illegal drugs, medically prescribed and synthetic marijuana
Hookah pipes
Power tools and toolboxes (except those utilized by vendors providing services)
Potentially dangerous sporting equipment, including baseball and cricket bats, hockey and lacrosse sticks, pool cues, ski poles, fishing gear and archery equipment. (Golf clubs are permitted as long as they are stored inside your stateroom.)
Scuba equipment such as tanks, spears, spear guns, slings, dive knives, pry bars, and underwater scooters. (Masks and snorkels are allowed and encouraged to enjoy the sea life you will encounter on your voyage)
Remote-controlled helicopters, airplanes, drones or similar devices
Kites, balloons, surfboards, wave boards, inflatable floats, pool noodles, inflatable pools and wagons
Bicycles, scooters, skateboards, inline & roller skates, any footwear with wheels (i.e. Heely’s type shoes) and Segways, or other wheeled mobility devices with less than 3 wheels and devices that cannot maintain stability and balance when stopped, unpowered or unoccupied. Training wheels or similar modifications are not permitted.
Wheeled transport devices other than those required by Guests with disabilities
Electrical appliances such as rice cookers, hot plates, coffee makers, blenders, electric irons, electric blankets, heating pads, bottle sterilizers and warmers
- Please note: A limited number of approved bottle warmers and bottle sterilizers are available upon request through Guest Services
- All ships offer self-service laundry facilities with irons and ironing boards. Portable fans are permitted in your stateroom. However, you must contact Guest Services to have the Chief Electrician approve your fan.
Candles and incense
DVD, VCR, and Blu-ray players
Gaming systems such as Playstation®, Xbox and Nintendo Wii (due to compatibility issues with the stateroom TVs)
Musical instruments
Ice chests and coolers, except for those permitted for storing medications, baby food and items related to dietary restrictions
Homemade, precooked or perishable foods or open food containers. Also, please refer to our guidelines on restricted food and beverages
Over-the-door hanging organizers (magnetic door decorations are still okay- just nothing that hangs over the door)
Metal detectors
Fireworks or pyrotechnics (leave that to Disney Cruise Line…you will love their show!)
Seasonal and/or celebratory light bulb strings
Extension cords or surge protectors

Also be sure to check out the security updates that are underway at the Disney theme parks!

Many of these restrictions will seem obvious, but, there were definitely a few on my list that may have ended up accidentally in my luggage. Hope this was able to give you a great refreshed and you are looking forward to your upcoming sailing. Voyages are now being booked through early 2017, so email me today to learn more about these amazing itineraries and pricing at [email protected].

New security measures show up at the Disney Theme Parks

Chip

December 17, 2015

Last night Disney installed metal detectors at the entrances of their 4 Disney World theme parks. Visitors will be randomly selected to go through the detectors before entering the theme parks. This comes on the heels of the report we shared last week of the gentleman who tried to sneak a gun into the Magic Kingdom.

“We continually review our comprehensive approach to security and are implementing additional security measures, as appropriate,” Disney said in a statement Thursday.

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From what we have heard the metal detectors will be in all 4 Disney World theme parks and at the premiere of Star Wars tonight in Disney Springs. They are also coming to Disneyland and California Adventure as well.

Disney is discontinuing the sales of toy guns of any kind at the theme parks, including bubble guns and Buzz Lightyear toy blasters. All of the gun merchandise is being pulled off the shelves and guests are encouraged to leave their own toy guns at home or not being allowed to gain entry to the park. Light-sabers and swords are still for sale as of right now. No word if they will be pulled later.

See the full list of Disney World park rules and prohibited items click here. For the updated rules for Disneyland click here.

As we reported in an article earlier this week Police presence has been increased in the past few weeks since the recent shootings in Paris and California.

Finally one more change, the costume policy at Disney is also being modified. Guests 14 years old and older will no longer be allowed to wear costumes at the theme parks. From what we have heard this includes Mickey’s No So Scary Halloween Party.

What do you think about the changes? Let us know in the comment box below.

Food & Drink Ideas for a Star Wars Theme Party

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

December 17, 2015

Are you excited for the movie premiere of Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens in theaters? I know I am!!! It opens this Friday, December 18th, 2015, and what better way to celebrate than by throwing a Star Wars themed party this weekend? I’ve come up with a great list for you of all the fun & creative ideas I could find on the web for party food & drinks inspired by the films and the characters. Many of these are very simple and easy to make at home and serve to your party guests. All it takes is a good presentation of your creations and the mood is set!

Food Ideas:

Stormtrooper Marshmallows – These are super cute and so easy to make! They can be served as a simple little dessert, of course, or just used as a drink garnish for looks. All you will need are 3 things: jumbo marshmallows, a black food marker, and lollipop sticks. Here’s a link to visit with a video tutorial on how to draw the faces: How to Make a Stormtrooper Marshmallow
Ewok Granola Bars – Ok, these are a little more complicated to make, but they’re so worth the effort because they are sooo adorable (and covered in chocolate)! It just requires you to use a little bit of artistic flair to coat a delicious Quaker chewy granola bar in chocolate (for the fur) and use a tootsie roll candy to mold and shape the Ewok’s hood, ears, face, hand, and spear head. You will need to click here to see a picture and detailed instructions on how to make them: Ewok Granola Bars
Lightsaber Pretzels – This yummy sweet & salty snack is sure to please adults and kids alike and is delightfully easy to make! Just 2 ingredients are required: pretzel rods and candy melts in your choice of color – red for the Dark Side of the force, and blue or green for the Light Side. Simply melt the candy wafers in the microwave and spread onto 2/3 of a pretzel rod, let cool and set and ta-da! Check ’em out by clicking here.
Death Star Oreo Truffles – Oh my god, these Oreo & cream cheese combo chocolate-covered little balls are so good, they might be my favorite! They remind me of cake pops, and can certainly be put onto lollipop sticks if you should choose to do so. Also, they are very easy to make! Just combine crushed Oreo cookies with cream cheese, form the 1″ balls, dip into melted white chocolate (colored gray with black food coloring), allow to harden, and then poke little shallow holes in the sides to create that unmistakable Death Star look! Get the exact recipe and view the pics here.
BB-8 Donuts – These little droids made from donut holes (and a lot of artistic talent) are too precious! I’m not sure I am talented enough to try my hand at them, but give it a shot if you are feeling adventurous! You’ll need to use a decorator’s icing tip to make sure you get all the little details just right. Instructions are here: BB-8 Donuts
Great Pit of Carkoon Bundt Cake – I saved the best for last! If you make the effort to create this awesome cake that represents a very memorable scene from Return of the Jedi, complete with the edible Sarlacc creature that inhabits the pit, you are sure to wow your party guests! You will absolutely need to use a bundt cake pan to make the right cake shape for re-creating this Tatooine desert pit (it looks like a giant donut when done.) Then using cookie crumbs for desert sand, slivered almonds for Sarlacc teeth, a chocolate-covered strawberry for the Sarlacc’s tongue and chocolate-covered gummy worms for the Sarlacc’s tentacles you can decorate your cake to perfection! See the pictures and full recipe by clicking here.

Drink Ideas:

Yoda Soda – (kid friendly) Pictured above, the green Yoda Soda ice cream float drink will be a big hit with the kids! To make it glow, we used one of the glow ice cubes we have brought home from the Disney theme parks as a souvenir (they come with select specialty beverages at most restaurants.) This drink looks like it comes straight from the swamps of Dagobah, where Jedi Master Yoda taught Luke the ways of The Force. Simply combine a glass of Sprite with a scoop of lime sherbet (or vanilla ice cream works, too), and pop in a few drops of green food coloring. May the fizz be with you!
Bantha Milk (aka Blue Milk) – (kid-friendly) Young Padawans will love drinking the blue colored milk produced by banthas, which first appeared in A New Hope. It can’t get any easier than just using blue food coloring in a glass of milk, but you could also be more creative and create a blueberry smoothie. Or for an adults-only alcoholic version, try this recipe from Castles & Cooks, based off of a classic White Russian drink: 3 oz. milk, 1oz. cream, 1 oz. coconut rum, 1 oz. amaretto, 2 oz. blue curacao. It tastes like a creamsicle!
Tatooine Sunset – (kid friendly) Combine orange juice and orange sherbet, and then pop in 2 maraschino cherries to represent the twin suns seen on the planet Tatooine – just like in the scene from A New Hope, when Luke gazes out at the “binary sunset” and the movie’s beloved musical score of that name plays.
The Dark Side Martini – (adults only! alcoholic) Come on over to the Dark Side with this Darth Vader-inspired martini enhanced with black food coloring to really get the look. You will need 1.5 oz. black rum, 3/4 oz. creme de cacao, 1 cup ice, black food coloring, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Combine the rum, creme de cacao, ice, and 1 or 2 drops of the black food coloring to a martini shaker and shake well. In a small bowl, add 1 drop of black food coloring to the brown sugar and mix well until all the sugar is black. Then wet the rim of a martini glass and dip it in the sugar to coat. Strain the martini into the glass & serve.
The Han Solo – (adults only! alcoholic) This cocktail is inspired by the Millennium Falcon’s pilot, played by none other than Harrison Ford. To make one, just pour these ingredients over ice in order: 3/4 oz. vodka, 3/4 oz. gin, 3/4 oz. triple sec, 3/4 oz. rum, 1 oz. bourbon whiskey, 2 oz. sweet & sour, and top with 1 oz. 101 whiskey. To make it even better, you could make Han Solo – frozen in carbonite – ice cubes to serve with it, if you use one of the special ice tray molds pictured below!
The C3PO – (adults only! alcoholic) A golden drink named for the protocol droid that helped the Rebel Alliance defeat the Empire. For one drink, you will need 1.5 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon boiling water, 2 oz. bourbon, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Start with the honey in a mixing bowl, then pour in the boiling water and whisk until they form a thin syrup. Then whisk in the bourbon and lemon juice, and refrigerate until ready to serve. To serve, shake with ice in a cocktail shaker and strain over a glass of ice.

A great way to add a fun garnish to your party drinks would be to make these lightsaber popsicles, as pictured above. Just add red, green, and/or blue food coloring to water, freeze in the lightsaber molds, and you’ve got ice saber drink stirrers! Have fun creating some of these ideas for your very own Star Wars party, whether it be for the movie premiere this weekend, a birthday, or any other special occasion. And don’t forget to check out the all new Star Wars Launch Bay on you next visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park! There are amazing new meet & greet opportunities with Chewbacca and Darth Vader, as well as costumes & props from the movies on display. You can also enjoy a “Star Wars Day at Sea” from January 2016 through April 2016, only on the Disney Cruise Line’s Fantasy ship, on select Western Caribbean sailings. Hope you enjoyed reading and May the Force Be With You!

Do you have any other fun party ideas for a Star Wars theme? Let us know in the comments section below!

If you’re interested in booking a vacation to Walt Disney World or a Star Wars Disney Cruise, please contact me at [email protected]. As an agent with World of Magic Travel Services – the preferred travel agency of Chip & Co. – I offer complimentary planning services so that all you have to do is show up and enjoy your magical vacation!

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS – European Premiere Now Available!

Chip

December 17, 2015

The Star Wars: The Force Awakens world tour continued today in London in Leicester Square for the European Premiere. The cast and filmmakers were out in full force to celebrate! In case you miss the other parts of their world tour check them out here:

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS is in theaters this Friday!

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