Top gift picks for the Disney Guy in your life

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December 4, 2015

Christmas is fast approaching (eek!) and I don’t know about you, but I like to get my shopping done and wrapped way before the holiday arrives. BUT – I know not everyone is as (freakishly) organized as me – so for the majority of you who probably haven’t started shopping, you might want to take a look at my top gift picks for the Disney Guy in your life:

Tech Accessories: Most guys I know LOVE technology – tablets, Bluetooth, smartphones – they can’t get enough, and there are some really cute…I mean MANLY Disney ways to accessorize those devices they love so much. The Disney Parks have TONS of stuff available – plenty of phone cases, tablet cases/carriers, laptop bags, etc – and you can purchase some of them online through the Disney store – check out what D-Tech accessories are currently available for purchase online here (Some of them can even be customized!)

Office Gear: Offices tend to be pretty blah, and most people like to bring in their own personal touches to liven up their walls/desk – and there are some great Disney ones out there to help brighten up those gray surfaces! Customizable mouse pads, pens, padfolios, engraved memo holders, and more are available online, check them out here. Or, you can always pick out the perfect Disney Photo Frame for your guy and give it with his favorite Disney Trip picture in it for his desk.

Cooking – A la Disney: If your guy fancies himself at “at home chef”, then you’re in luck – as there are some great ways to celebrate his love for cooking (and eating!) with a Disney flair – maybe some cooking utensils – like spatulas, measuring cups/spoons, serving spoons, whisks, oven mitts, aprons – find it all here. Personalizable wine glasses and serving/dining ware (including plates, platters, silverware, mugs, cups, and more!) are also available too, from a subtle Mickey silhouetted plate, to a bright Enchanted Tiki Room mug and everything in between! There’s plenty of Disney Cookbooks out there too – so he can try his hand at some of his favorite dishes from Disney Park and Resort Restaurants.

FOOD: It’s the best way to a man’s heart, and even if your guy isn’t into cooking, chances are pretty good he is into EATING. Make him some Chocolate Mickey Sugar Cookies, or maybe he’s more into Barbeque, or maybe a slightly more holiday themed dish? Mickey Waffles are easy to make at home (with the aid of a Mickey Waffle Maker, of course!) – and who doesn’t love a Mickey waffle?

Keep Him Warm: If you’re like me and live in a place where winter is bitter cold and lasts for about half the year, then you’ll need some ways to keep warm – how about getting your guy a personalized Disney fleece? A Chewbacca Hoodie is perfect for all those Star Wars fans out there – or perhaps your man is more of a fan of the Dark Side?

Hopefully these ideas help get your Christmas shopping started (or finished!) – and be sure to stay tuned next week for what to get the Disney female in your life with the Disney Christmas List For Her!

Star Wars: “Force 4 Fashion” Red Carpet Launch Event

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 4, 2015

Disney Consumer Products joined forces with Bloomingdale’s in a new fashion-meets-fundraising initiative, Star Wars “Force 4 Fashion.” The New York City launch event, presented by Kay Jewelers and CoverGirl, showcased unique looks from 11 icons of fashion, inspired by characters from the highly anticipated Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

“Force 4 Fashion” is part of a global initiative celebrating the distinctive synergy between film and fashion, in the run up to an exceptional moment in the history of pop culture – – Star Wars: The Force Awakens release.

Check out the fashions:

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Participating designers include: Billy Reid, Cynthia Rowley, Diane von Furstenberg, Giles Deacon, Halston, Opening Ceremony, Ovadia & Sons, Parker, rag & bone, Timo Weiland and Todd Snyder.

Following the event, the designers’ looks will go on display in Bloomingdale’s NYC flagship windows. Outfits will then be auctioned off from December 2-18 by Bloomingdale’s on CharityBuzz.com, with the proceeds benefiting their holiday charity partner, Child Mind Institute, on behalf of Star Wars: Force For Change – a charitable initiative that empowers people to make a positive impact on the world around them.

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Gourmet Treats Come to the Disneyland Resort this Holiday Season

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 3, 2015

This Holiday season at the Disneyland Resort you’ll be able to find some delicious gourmet treats! There is a special gourmet caramel apple being offered only in the month of December. It has been dipped in dark chocolate infused with peppermint oil, covered in red and green chocolates and drizzled with white chocolate and sanding sugar. Is your mouth watering yet?

Also added to the treats this year is a marshmallow wand and bark that are similar to the December caramel apple.

Making a return this holiday season, among other favorites, are the themed caramel apples. Santa Mickey and Santa Minnie, ornaments and of course, the ever-popular snowman will be available. And don’t forget the famous handmade candy canes! There will be a limited number of candy canes available for each release. Check out this article for more information on how and where to get your hands on one!

What’s your favorite holiday treat at Disneyland? Let me know in the comments!

For more information about the holidays at the Disneyland Resort or to book your magical holiday vacation (it’s not too late!), email me at [email protected].

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Brooklyn Ice Cream Shop will have 2 new Star Wars Themed Ice Cream Flavors!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 3, 2015

An ice cream shop in Brooklyn called Ample Hills Creamery has been working with Lucasfilm to create 2 new awesome ice cream flavors that are Star Wars themed! They have created light and dark flavors and there are stories behind them, of course!

The ‘Dark Side’ has these little white chocolate pearls in an otherwise very dark ice cream — to represent the little bit of light that’s still within the Dark Side, waiting to get out,” Smith said.
“The ‘Light Side’ is an inverse of that, with a marshmallow white ice cream… with little bits of chocolate crispies in it to represent the dark that’s still lurking there.”

But wait there is more! The ice cream comes in reusable Star Wars containers!

If you do not live in Brooklyn, you can order the ice cream online starting Dec 9. You can place your order here and have it delivered!

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ will be released in theaters on Dec. 18.

Which “side”are you?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Jenna Elfman Lights LEGOLAND California Christmas Tree

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 3, 2015

Golden Globe award winner Jenna Elfman and her family joined in the winter tradition at LEGOLAND^® California Resort and helped Santa pull the switch lighting the 30-foot tall LEGO^® Christmas tree during the 13th annual tree lighting ceremony in Carlsbad, California.

Guests at tonight’s tree lighting got an exclusive first look at an image from “The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure” and viewed special LEGO ornaments created by Master Model Builders that were inspired by the Park’s new animated attraction premiering Feb. 6 at LEGOLAND California. Emmet and Wyldstyle costume characters joined Elfman and her sons Story(8) and Easton(5) and, of course, Santa, on stage to help pull a magical switch that set off thousands of lights and a twinkling LEGO star, followed by snow showering Park guests and a fireworks show.

At the ceremony, LEGOLAND California Resort donated $10,000 on Elfman’s behalf to Youth for Human Rights International, a Los Angeles based charity aimed at teaching youth about human rights, specifically the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and inspires them to become valuable advocates for tolerance and peace. “For us parents, in the world today, we see what’s going on and we all in our heart of hearts wish for peace on earth, truly. I feel the way we are going to accomplish that on a larger scale is through education of human rights,” said Elfman. “I think we’d all like to see peace and harmony.”

“Human Rights are the rights that every kid and adult, all girls and boys have and without them it is hard to live a happy and successful life,” said Executive Director of Youth for Human Rights International Ruslan Khusainov. “Our organization, like LEGOLAND California, is dedicated to bringing joy and happiness to people. We do it through education around the world and with this generous donation we will be able to continue doing it on a bigger scale!”

Guests at tonight’s ceremony were also treated to new animated footage of NINJAGO The Ride coming to LEGOLAND California in the spring of 2016. The new dark ride features cutting edge technology enabling guests to act like ninja warriors blasting animated fireballs, lightning, shockwaves and ice as they go into battle.

Towering over the theme park’s Fun Town winter wonderland, the LEGO Christmas tree stands 30-foot tall, is created out of more than 245,000 green DUPLO^® bricks, features more than 400 LEGO ornaments and sparkles with more than 11,000 LED lights. The tree lighting ceremony is part of LEGOLAND California Resort’s coolest holiday celebration ever, Holiday Snow Days and Winter Nights. Now through January 3, 2015, the Park transforms into a winter wonderland featuring real snow for kids to build snow balls and throw at LEGO targets, decorate a snowman with LEGO accessories or make a snow angel. Guests can enjoy festive entertainment plus nightly fireworks Dec. 26 through 31 and the celebration concludes with San Diego’s biggest Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party on Dec. 31. All Holiday Snow Days and Winter Nights activities located inside the Park are included with regular Park admission.

The holiday season is in full swing at LEGOLAND California Resort with Snow Days and Winter Nights! For more information on visiting this amazing resort, contact me at [email protected] and stay connected to Chip and Company!

New Disney and Star Wars Art Therapy Adult Coloring Books Available for Pre-Order

By

Danielle

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December 3, 2015

Have you seen the new trend of Art Therapy coloring books for Adults? They are a wonderful way to unwind and come in all sorts of themes. There is now a couple of Disney themed ones, with 3 new ones available for pre-order!

If you haven’t seen them yet, these artistic books are meant to inspire, calm, and lift your spirits with intricate designs, and mesmerizing patterns.

Currently available are the:

Coming soon, and now available for pre-order is:

These Art Therapy books give me hours of serenity after a long hectic week!

Star Wars Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet in Hollywood Studios for Disney Visa Card Members!

By

Chip

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December 3, 2015

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Open now in Hollywood Studios is the Star Wars Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet in the Star Wars Launch Bay!

You can feel the power of the Force at the Star Wars Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet, offered daily from 11am to 4pm at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Simply present your Disney Visa Credit Card (not debit) to enter this exclusive location. (It’s near the Cantina)

From what we heard you present your Chase Disney Visa and you get escorted to a Fastpass line to see Chewbacca & Darth Vader. Characters are subject to change but for now it has just been these 2.

Here is the official disclaimer.

1. Offers and offer elements including, but not limited to, participating locations, are subject to availability and additional restrictions, and may change or be canceled without notice. Must use a valid Disney Visa Card and/or Disney RewardsRedemption Card to receive special offers. Merchandise discount may not be available for certain items and at certain locations including Disneyland^® Resort and Walt Disney World^® Resort Operating Participant locations and any other locations or kiosks that are not owned and operated by the owners of the Walt Disney World^® Resort and the Disneyland^® Resort. To receive a merchandise discount, you must mention the specific offer. For entry into the Disney Character or Star Wars™ Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet Photo Opportunities, must present your valid Disney Visa Credit Card. Not valid in combination with other offers, discounts, promotions or with any previous purchase. Minimum purchase and/or separate admission may be required. Offers are for personal use only and may not be transferred or resold. Chase is not responsible or liable for fulfillment of these Disney Theme Park perks.

2. The Character Meet ‘N’ Greet Photo Opportunities are offered daily during set hours–the Disney Character Meet ‘N’ Greet is atEpcot^® and the Star Wars™ Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet is at Disney’s Hollywood Studios^®. Separate Theme Park admission required for each Meet ‘N’ Greet Opportunity. Must present a valid Disney Visa Credit Card for entry for up to 6 people per cardmember account (each cardmember account may be used for entry only one time per day). Operating times, days of the week, locations and appearance of Characters may vary and are subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice. Not valid in combination with other offers, discounts or promotions. Offer is for personal use only and may not be transferred or resold. Please visit DisneyRewards.com/ParkPerks for additional information.

Disney XD orders Third Season of Star Wars Rebels!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 3, 2015

Star Wars Rebels logo

Disney XD has ordered a third season of its animated series “Star Wars Rebels” from Lucasfilm. The third season is currently in production and scheduled to premiere in 2016. It was announced today by Marc Buhaj, Senior Vice President, Programming and General Manager, Disney XD.

In making the announcement, Buhaj said, “We are proud to bring our audience a third season of ‘Star Wars Rebels,’ a series that has resonated across generations.” Buhaj added, “The creative team behind the series continues to do a brilliant job in delivering on the key tenets that fans have come to expect from a Star Wars property, including adventure, hope and the battle between good vs. evil.”

“We’re very proud of our incredibly creative Rebels team,” says Lucasfilm SVP of Development, Kiri Hart. “The show continues to tell fun, heartfelt, exciting new Star Wars stories week after week, and it’s beloved by fans of all ages. Season Three will see our Rebel heroes face new obstacles and find new allies in their fight against the Empire.”

To date, “Star Wars Rebels” ranks as Disney XD’s #2 series in Total Viewers (1.3 million), Kids 6-11, Boys 6-11 and Boys 2-11. It’s the channel’s #1 program among Adults 18-49 and Men 18-49. In the most recent quarter tabulated (3Q15), “Star Wars Rebels” reached over 48 million unique Total Viewers in 157 countries/territories and in 30 languages. “Star Wars Rebels” has also generated nearly 4 million video starts on WATCH Disney XD.

The transformative second season of “Star Wars Rebels” featured the return of fan-favorite clone troopers Captain Rex, Captain Gregor and Commander Wolffe, and the debut of new characters including the Seventh Sister, a cunning and crafty Inquisitor who is tasked by Darth Vader to track down the rebels. Following a series of critical events, the lives of our heroes will be changed forever as Season Three begins.

“Star Wars Rebels” is created by Dave Filoni (“Star Wars: The Clone Wars”), Simon Kinberg (“X-Men: Days of Future Past,” “Sherlock Holmes”) and Carrie Beck. The Lucasfilm Animation production is executive-produced by Filoni and Kinberg.

The Season Two voice cast includes Freddie Prinze Jr. as Kanan, Vanessa Marshall as Hera, Steve Blum as Zeb, Tiya Sircar as Sabine, Taylor Gray as Ezra, Ashley Eckstein as Ahsoka Tano, Dee Bradley Baker as Captain Rex, Captain Gregor and Commander Wolffe, David Oyelowo as Agent Kallus and Sarah Michelle Gellar as the Seventh Sister Inquisitor.

Stay tuned for more Star Wars Rebels!

Holiday Sale on Disney Decals!

By

Danielle

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December 3, 2015

DenileArts has adorable Disney decals on Etsy, and even does out “Home” designs! In the spirit of the season, she’s offering a hot holiday sale just for Chip and Co fans for 10% off any purchase! Just use Code: CHIPANDCO10 now through Monday December 7 to save 10% on any order.

Her much loved Mickey and Minnie Tsum Tsum pair decals, which were previously only available for special promotions and prizes are also now for purchase!

Here’s some of her fun Disney Designs:

Our Classic “Home” Designs
Mouse L°o°VE
Ohana (The best seller!)
The Perfect Pair (Who is your perfect pair? Mickey and Minnie, or Donald and Daisy?)
Princess Inspirations
Villainous Inspirations
Jack and Sally Tsum Tsum
New Tsum Tsum Pairs!

Make sure to hurry, the sale is only good till Monday! Remember to put in your Code: CHIPANDCO10 to save! She’s also throwing in mystery decals on any purchase of 4 or more decals!

Special New Year’s Eve Celebration Now Open for Booking at Yacht & Beach Club Resort!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 3, 2015

It’s the New Year and the possibilities are endless, so it’s only fitting that Disney World has come up with many ways for guests to usher in 2016. Stand in the middle of Main Street for Fireworks in the Sky? Absolutely. How about forgetting all about that hyped-up Times Square ball and celebrating at Epcot instead while watching Illuminations? Sign me up! And let’s not forget – there’s also Lights! Camera! New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Hollywood Studios.

But wait, there’s more! Disney just recently announced a new way to ring in the New Year, and that’s through the Countdown to Midnight celebration at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Convention Center. The talented Vanessa Williams will be performing at the event. Disney fans will recognize her voice from the Academy Award-winning song, “Colors of the Wind” from Pocahontas.

Here’s more information about this exciting event:

Countdown to Midnight will feature not one, not two, but three different themed party experiences. First, you can enjoy hilarious comedy at the Adventurer’s Club. Then you can boogie to Club Live, where rollicking tunes will be played by a nine-piece dance band. Finally, at Club Vinyl, a seven-piece band will feature a jazzy twist to modern hits.
The party kicks off at 8pm at the Convention Center. Check-in starts at 7:30 pm.
The event is exclusive to Walt Disney World Resort guests only.
It wouldn’t be a Disney party if it didn’t have plentiful food, so there are buffet stations that feature all-you-care-to-eat goodies and sweets.
Beer, wine, and cocktails are all included with admission! Open bar = Happy New Year!
Each guest will also receive their very own champagne glass to toast the New Year – and keep as a souvenir.
Advanced reservations are required. You can call (407) 939-3463 directly or book through your travel agent.
Admission is $300 per person; tax and gratuities are included.

If you are interested in booking this package, but don’t have a reservation, it’s not too late! Send me an email to [email protected] to book a resort reservation and party tickets. Room availability for New Year’s Eve is running out fast, particularly in the Epcot area hotels – so don’t delay! Here are some sample packages and pricing:

3-night stay for two at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel with park tickets and party admission, starting at $2,121
2-night stay for two at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel with park tickets and party admission, starting at $1,708
Overnight stay for two at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel with park tickets and party admission, starting at $1,451

As one of my favorite villains, Hades, would say: “We dance, we kiss, we schmooze, we carry on, go home happy. What’d’ya say? Come on!”

With that, I will turn it over to you. What do you think of the Countdown to Midnight Party? 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 your upcoming holiday trip to Disney, at no cost to you! It’s not too late! Please visit my page or send me an email at [email protected] to get started!

New Jedi Training Trial of the Temple Begins at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 3, 2015

The force is stronger now at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the start of the new Jedi Training, Trials of the Temple. Star Wars fans ages 4 to 12 years old can take part in the training to prepare to fight the Dark Side.

The show takes place at an ancient Jedi Temple and a new villain joins Darth Vader in the fight against the recruits, the Seventh Sister, from the popular Disney XD show, Star Wars Rebels. After training, the recruits, dressed in robes and armed with lightsabers faceoff against one of the two villains and the show closes with a surprise ending.

Sign up takes place in the morning and the 20 minute shows run approximately 15 times each day. Even if you don’t have young children or your children aren’t participating in the Trial of the Temple training, it is worth stopping by to enjoy the show! Located right next to Star Tours.

Walt Disney World has lots to offer Star Wars fans. If you are interested in finding out more or planning a vacation please contact me at [email protected]. In the words of Yoda, “Do. Or do not. There is no try.”

Santa Claus Shares Holiday Magic at Disneyland Park

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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December 2, 2015

This holiday season at the Disneyland Resort, Santa Claus will be spreading holiday cheer in a new location-Critter Country at Disneyland Park.

This new location has been specially designed just for Santa and features festive décor along with Hundred Acre Wood-inspired accents. Santa will also be leading his reindeer in “A Christmas Fantasy” parade as well as visiting Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure. Guests will have plenty of opportunities to see jolly old Saint Nick.

During the holidays the Happiest Place on Earth becomes the Merriest Place on Earth. With themed attractions, decorations, delicious treats, commemorative merchandise, the Disneyland Resort provides lots of ways to celebrate! You’ll also be able to enjoy special seasonal entertainment such as “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, “Disney ¡Viva Navidad!”, and “World of Color-Winter Dreams”. The Diamond Anniversary Celebration provides special entertainment as well-the dazzling “Paint the Night” parade, the “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular, and “World of Color-Celebrate!”.

This truly is a magical time of year to visit the Disneyland Resort. It’s not too late to plan a trip to experience these festivities and tell Santa Claus your Christmas wishes! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your next amazing adventure.

Photo credit Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort