Christmas is back at Disney’s Magic Kingdom – Photo Tour

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November 6, 2015

Christmas is back at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. We were there this week to get some photos of the Christmas Decorations and to check out the first castle lighting of the season.

If you have never been during the holidays let my friends at World of Magic Travel help you plan that magical Christmas vacation!

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Yummy Treats are back for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in The Magic Kingdom

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 6, 2015

It has been a few years since I have been at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in the Magic Kingdom Park. The Christmas decorations, the Disney characters dressed in their holiday best, the music, the Holiday Parade, the fireworks and the FOOD are all things I can’t wait for as Disney gets ready to celebrate the magic of the season. The festivities start on November 8th for select nights through December 18th.

Disney is back again with a bunch of Holiday treats that you wont want to miss!

Holiday sweets are part of the fun, and the Disney chefs have come up with some goodies exclusively for the party. Our first stop will be the Main Street Bakery for the almost-too-cute-to-eat Holiday Bear Cupcake with vanilla cake with peanut butter chips and chocolate frosting ($5.19)

Or the peppermint cupcake with buttercream frosting and peppermint sprinkles ($5.19). And there’s the requisite sugar cookie with holiday sprinkles, too ($2.59). All are on the Disney Dining Plan.

At the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street, U.S.A., there’s a holiday cookie ice-cream sandwich ($5.29 and on the Disney Dining Plan), as well as a Peppermint Fudge Sundae.

At Gaston’s Tavern in New Fantasyland, an adorable Holiday Tree Cupcake is made with spiced cake—infused with orange zest, cinnamon, clove and star anise—topped with sprinkles, buttercream icing and an edible star ($5.19 and on the Disney Dining Plan).

The pumpkin spice waffle has also returned to Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square, this year it is topped with rich hand-scooped ice cream and holiday sprinkles.

If you love souvenirs, check out the premium popcorn buckets of the holiday popcorn bucket ($6), or the souvenir holiday mug ($5.25). The adorable Elf Mickey Stein will also be available throughout the park, but our favorite is as a sundae from Plaza Restaurant.

See you at the party! The party is held select nights November 8-December 18.

Photo credit Disney Parks Blog

The holidays magical at Walt Disney World. And there is still time to plan that special holiday trip. Let me help you! I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation! –Alissa

ABC Family and ABC Studios Ink Deal With McG’S Wonderland Sound & Vision!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 6, 2015

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ABC Family, ABC Studios and ABC Signature have inked a two-year deal with McG of Wonderland Sound & Vision. Under the deal, he will direct and develop scripted drama and comedy series and produce digital content for various platforms. ABC Family is becoming Freeform in January 2016.

“Everything McG touches gets bigger and better. I’m thrilled that ‘Shadowhunters’ will showcase his brilliant work as a director when it premieres in January,” said Karey Burke, Executive Vice President Programming and Development, ABC Family. “McG will be ushering in new ideas and projects to live under our new Freeform banner.”

“I’m delighted to be a part of the Disney|ABC Television Group team. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work closely with the entire Disney family, especially Karey Burke and Tom Ascheim in the launch of Freeform,” McG.

McG has an impressive body of work as an executive producer in the TV space with four shows currently on the air – “Supernatural” in its 11th season on the CW, “Mysteries of Laura” in its second season on NBC, the ABC Family comedy “Kevin from Work” and upcoming saga series “Shadowhunters.” McG’s previous television titles include the groundbreaking series “The O.C.,” “Chuck,” “Nikita,” “Human Target,” and “Fastlane.”

“Shadowhunters” is a straight-to-series order for the network. McG directed the pilot and is an executive producer alongside Mary Viola. Ed Decter is the writing executive producer and showrunner. The drama saga is based on the bestselling young adult fantasy book series The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare, whose series has sold more than 36 million books. The show follows Clary Fray, who finds out on her 18th birthday that she comes from a long line of Shadowhunters – human-angel hybrids who hunt down demons. When her mother, Jocelyn, is kidnapped, Clary is thrown into the world of demon hunting with mysterious Shadowhunter Jace, and her best friend, Simon. Now living among faeries, warlocks, vampires and werewolves, Clary begins a journey of self-discovery as she learns more about her past and what her future may hold.

Stay tuned for more!

Disney Finds – Hand Painted Disney Shoes

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Chip

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November 6, 2015

Adventure is out there with Hand Painted Disney Shoes. Right now all the rage is hand painted shoes and Etsy user LittleDaisyMouse has a bunch of fun designs. They are located in the UK so make sure to specify when ordering. What I love the best is most of their designs are under $50! Here are some of the Disney Designs I found:

and many more. To learn more and to check out some more of their fun designs just drop by the LittleDaisyMouse shop.

Happy Shopping

New details on Pandora emerge with family-friendly attraction called Na’vi River Journey

By

Chip

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November 6, 2015

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Today Disney has released new details on the Pandora – World of Avatar expansion in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Pandora – The World of AVATAR will be bringing a variety of new experiences to Disney’s Animal Kimgdom, including a family-friendly attraction called Na’vi River Journey. The adventure begins as guests set out in canoes and venture down a mysterious, sacred river hidden within the bioluminescent rainforest. The full beauty of Pandora reveals itself as the canoes pass by exotic glowing plants and amazing creatures. The journey culminates in an encounter with a Na’vi shaman, who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora and sends positive energy out into the forest through her music.

Na’vi River Journey will open with Pandora – The World of AVATAR in 2017.

I cannot wait to see what this expansion looks like and 2017 isn’t all that far away! While rates aren’t out yet for 2017 it’s never to early to start thinking of a trip to Disney. I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation! –Alissa

Make Your New Year’s Plans at the Walt Disney World Resort Today!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 6, 2015

Is it your dream to ring in the New Year at Walt Disney World? Do you already have plans to celebrate at the “happiest place on earth” as we say goodbye to 2015 and hello to 2016? Or maybe you’re still trying to decide if you should make the trip this year or not (if you’re thinking of a trip, I’d love to help you plan an amazing New Year’s Celebration – or any trip! You can always reach me at [email protected] ).

Here is a round up of all of the amazing ways you can start the 2016 with a little Disney Magic!

Atlantic Dance Hall
What better way to “swing” into the New Year than with a live big band, lots of fun and the party atmosphere at Atlantic Dance Hall! Included in the cost of general admission are the requisite party hats and horns, a viewing of the Epcot fireworks at midnight, and a champagne toast. Or go for the VIP experience including access to the exclusive VIP section with your own bartender, ample seating, and a New Year’s Eve dessert bar.

California Grill
With a view of Magic Kingdom Fireworks that is second to none and a gala featuring food stations throughout the restaurant this is sure to be a great party! A complimentary bar will be available, in addition to wine poured by the glass until midnight. The dress code at California Grill requires everyone look their best: a dinner jacket is required for men (tie optional) and dress or pants ensemble for women.

Chef Mickey’s
A perfect way for the littlest Disney Addicts to ring in the New Year with the Fab Five! Not only will the traditional buffet items be available (if you haven’t tried the mashed potatoes, you MUST), look for holiday favorites on New Year’s Day such carved and smoked pork, collard greens, ham hock, black eye peas, corn bread and seasonal fruit cobbler.

La Hacienda de San Angel
Seating for this five-course prix-fixe dinner and alcohol pairings begins at 9:30pm. Other party extras include a welcome margarita for adults, live entertainment from the mariachi band, and a view of the fireworks at Epcot.

Le Cellier Steakhouse
There are three dinner seating times for this special four-course meal that is sure to dazzle. Seatings will be 4:30, 6:45, and 9 p.m. with lunch also being served on New Year’s Eve from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Monsieur Paul
Indulge in a special 3-course prix-fixe menu on New Year’s Eve. With lunch seatings at 11:45 a.m., noon, 2:15 p.m., and 2:45 p.m.; dinner at 5:45 and 6:15 p.m.; late night at 8:45 and 9:45 p.m.

Narcoossee’s
This is an amazing experience any day of the year but as we see 2015 out you have the unforgettable opportunity to revel in the festivities of New Year’s Eve while enjoying a four-course prix-fixe meal overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon. There will be two seatings, the first seating takes place between 5:00 and 5:55p.m. and the second from 8:45 to 9:40p.m.

Yacht & Beach Club Resort
The Yacht Club Convention Center will be transformed into three uniquely themed party experiences: A dance party with a live band, “Club Vinyl” which celebrates the golden age of music with a modern twist and a nod to Pleasure Island, “Adventure Club” with comedy shows throughout the evening. There will be appetizers like a selection of upscale flatbreads, sliders, and sweets that are included in the cost, as well as beer, wine, specialty cocktails, mixed drinks, and a champagne toast. End your evening with a balloon drop and confetti blast to ring in the new year.

Victoria & Albert’s
New Year’s Eve includes a ten-course menu including eight savory courses and two dessert courses, also offered is a nine-course wine pairing with eclectic and low-production wines. Victoria and Albert’s was recently voted one of the Top Restaurants in the US!

World ShowPlace
World ShowPlace will give you the chance to enjoy a custom New Year’s Eve dinner buffet. Perfect for the whole family with photo opportunities and classic Disney tunes. Look for a variety of soups and salads, oven-baked cod, chicken breast, mojo-roasted pork, carved mesquite-spiced deep-fried turkey breast, plenty of sides and a scrumptious dessert station. A kid-friendly station features favorites like mac and cheese, fried chicken fritters, mini corn dogs and more.

With so many amazing experiences to ring in the New Year, which will you choose? I think they all look amazing and there really will be something for everyone to enjoy!

Does all of this sound like an incredible way to welcome 2016? Let’s get your holiday trip to Walt Disney World planned! I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation! –Alissa

Ghirardelli is Coming to Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort for the Holidays

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 5, 2015

Ghirardelli now has a seasonal holiday store in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort! It’s located next to the Disney Vacation Club Preview Center across from Rainforest Café.

This seasonal location is a merchandise-only location. It offers a variety of delicious treats like limited-edition Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark, classic bars and SQUARES, pick-and-mix chocolates and more! Stop by for some yummy holiday treats for yourself or to purchase some tasty gifts for loved ones.

Also, be sure to visit the location in Disney California Adventure park for the Ghirardelli ice cream experience!

Are you a fan of Ghirardelli treats? Let me know your favorites in the comments!

I’d love to help you plan a holiday trip to the Disneyland Resort so you can try some delicious Ghirardelli chocolates! Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote.

ABC Family’s Funday Scheduling for November!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 5, 2015

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ABC Family invites you to cheer on Sid as he attempts to raise three baby dinosaurs by himself, but you won’t be rooting for the sloth all alone. No, other lovable characters such as Milo, Rapunzel, Princess Aurora, and Mulan will be cheering right alongside you when ABC Family’s “Funday” celebration begins on Saturday, November 7th and continues on Sunday, November 8th, 2015. ABC Family is becoming Freeform in January 2016.

You can be a part of the adventure by visiting fundayapp.com to create memes of your favorite movies airing this weekend. You can also enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win fun prizes such as a Funday prize pack! Don’t forget to show ABC Family how you “Funday” by sharing photos of your awesome viewing parties, movie-themed snacks, and creative costumes.

The schedule is as follows:

Saturday, November 7
(4 p.m. – 6 p.m., ET/PT) MARS NEEDS MOMS
Take out the trash, eat your broccoli – who needs moms anyway? Nine-year-old Milo (Seth Green) finds out how much he needs his mom (Joan Cusack) when she’s nabbed by Martians who plan to steal her mom-ness for their own young. In a race against time and oxygen, his quest to save her knows no bounds. And with some unexpected help, Milo just might find his way back to her – in more ways than one. “Mars Needs Moms” repeats on Sunday, November 8th at 2:00 p.m., ET/PT.

(6 p.m. – 8 p.m., ET/PT) ICE AGE: DAWN OF THE DINOSAURS
In the coolest Ice Age adventure yet, Manny (Ray Romano) and the herd discover a lost world of ferociously funny dinosaurs, including a cranky T. rex who’s got a score to settle with Sid (John Leguizamo)! Meanwhile, Scrat goes nuts over the beautiful Scratte but is she trying to win his heart – or steal his acorn? “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs” repeats on Sunday, November 8th at 4:00 p.m., ET/PT.

(8 p.m. – 10:10 p.m., ET/PT) DISNEY’S TANGLED
When the kingdom’s most wanted and most charming bandit, Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi), hides out in a mysterious tower, he’s taken hostage by Rapunzel (Mandy Moore), a beautiful and feisty tower-bound teen with 70 feet of magical, golden hair. Flynn’s curious captor, who’s looking for her ticket out of the tower where she’s been locked away for years, strikes a deal with the handsome thief, and the unlikely duo sets off on an action-packed escapade, complete with a super-cop horse, an over-protective chameleon and a gruff gang of pub thugs. “Disney’s Tangled” repeats on Sunday, November 8th at 6:00 p.m., ET/PT.

(10:10 p.m. – 12 a.m., ET/PT) SLEEPING BEAUTY
“Sleeping Beauty” tells the story of Princess Aurora (Mary Costa) and the evil curse placed on her by vengeful fairy Maleficent. According to the prophecy, Aurora will prick her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and fall into a deep slumber on her 16th birthday, from which only the kiss of her true love can awaken her. Three doting fairies – Flora, Fauna and Merryweather – whisk Aurora away to raise her deep in the forest where Maleficent cannot find her. One day while riding in the woods, Prince Phillip meets Aurora, now known as Briar Rose, and the two fall in love. But when Rose learns from the fairies that she is a princess and must return to the castle immediately to fulfill her royal duties, she is devastated at the thought of leaving Philip. Once back at the castle, Maleficent fulfills her curse, putting Princess Aurora in a deep sleep. The prince rushes to the castle to rescue Aurora, but first must battle Maleficent, who assumes the form of a fierce, fire-spouting dragon. “Sleeping Beauty” repeats on Sunday, November 8th at 8:10 p.m., ET/PT.

(12:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m., ET/PT) MULAN
Mulan (Ming-Na Wen) is a brave young woman faced with the terrible reality that her ailing father — too old to be a soldier but too honorable not to be one — will be killed in battle. Driven by her love and devotion for her family, Mulan makes a decision that will change their lives forever. Disguising herself as a man, she secretly takes her father’s place in the Imperial army that is being gathered to meet the threat of invasion by the villainous Hun leader, Shan-Yu (Miguel Ferrer). Accompanied by her feisty, fire-breathing “wanna-be” guardian dragon, Mushu (Eddie Murphy), Mulan trains to be a brave and disciplined warrior and ultimately learns some profound lessons about courage, honor and love. “Mulan” repeats on Sunday, November 8th at 10:00 p.m., ET/PT.

Stay tuned for more!

Is Disney Introducing a Star Wars Themed event at Walt Disney World?

By

Anonymouse

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November 5, 2015

Hey there guys and gals your friendly neighborhood Disney Gossip columnist Anonymouse here.

Did you hear the news? Disney Parks and Talent Casting is seeking Male Interactive Actors for a new Star Wars event offering at the Walt Disney World® Resort near Orlando, FL.

Is this the Season of Force we have been hearing about?

According to the Disney Casting site they are looking for Male & Female Interactive Actors: 20s – 30s. Knowledge of all things Star Wars. Ability to facilitate to and entertain large groups. Comedic timing and have the ability to improvise.

No other details have been released about the event but it should be exciting!

So what do you think about this event? Are you going to try out? Let me know in the comment box below!

Anywho, this 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.

More than 20,000 runners set to race, eat and drink during Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon

By

Chip

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November 5, 2015

More than 20,000 runners from across the country, including thousands from Central Florida, are expected to lace up and run, eat and drink during the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort.

The 13.1-mile half marathon race on Saturday night is the only nighttime half marathon in the Orlando area and takes runners through Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot. To top it off, runners will toast the night away at the exclusive Finish Line Party during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, featuring more than 30 kiosks offering fine cuisine and wine until the wee hours of the morning.

The half marathon begins Saturday night at 10 p.m. from ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and finishes at Epcot. All runners receive a special Wine & Dine medal at the finish line.

In addition to the half marathon, the Disney Wine & Dine Weekend also features a full course of events for the entire family, including Thursday’s Wine & Dine Welcome Reception at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex from 7:30-9 p.m. and the runDisney Kids Races beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday.

EVENT SCHEDULE for WINE & DINE WEEKEND:

Wine & Dine Welcome Reception • ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex • Thursday, November 5 – 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
runDisney Health & Fitness Expo • ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex • Friday, November 6, 2015 – 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. & Saturday, November 7 – 9 a.m. – 3 p.m
Disney Wine & Dine Pre-Race Taste • Disney’s Hollywood Studios • Friday, November 6 – 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Mickey’s Jingle Jungle 5K • Disney’s Animal Kingdom • Saturday, November 7 – 7 a.m. start

The Complete Disney and ESPN Media Networks Lineup is on it’s way to Playstation VUE

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 5, 2015

Disney and ESPN Media Networks and Sony Network Entertainment International announced an agreement to bring the company’s media networks to PlayStation Vue, the pioneering cloud-based live TV service. Disney will offer ESPN, ABC-owned local stations, Disney Channel, ABC Family, and more networks on PlayStation Vue with the service’s unique features, including the ability to play multiple streams from one account and a powerful, intuitive user interface. In addition, local ABC affiliate stations will also have the opportunity to opt-in to the PlayStation Vue service with their live linear programming.

“This deal demonstrates our continued commitment to offer the best content on TV to PlayStation Vue users,” said Dwayne Benefield, Vice President, Head of PlayStation Vue, at SNEI. “The addition of Disney and ESPN’s primetime programming and live marquee sports to our portfolio ensures subscribers will have access to the most popular network programming on television today. We’re also proud to be the first Internet-based pay TV service to offer Disney’s networks with the streaming features that set PlayStation Vue apart from the industry, making TV viewing a more enjoyable experience for the whole household.”

Added Justin Connolly, EVP of Affiliate Sales & Marketing, Disney and ESPN Media Networks, “PlayStation Vue provides a unique way to engage with our content and an opportunity to reach a segment of viewers who want a different kind of television experience. The addition of our content to the PlayStation Vue platform will make the offering more compelling as consumers navigate their video options.”

Users will be able to watch content from Disney and ESPN Media Networks on a pay TV service over the Internet, using the following unique features offered by PlayStation Vue.

On Demand Offering – PlayStation Vue will have an extensive library of video on-demand content from Disney and ESPN Media Networks, including the ability to “catch up” on content within the past three days without the need to record or tag their favorite show. ABC primetime programming also will be offered on-demand in all cities where PlayStation Vue multi-channel packages are available.

Unmatched Viewing Experience – PlayStation Vue makes it easy to watch more and search less with an intuitive interface that seamlessly blends live and on-demand content, offers powerful search and discovery tools, and enables viewers to rewind, pause, or fast forward content.

Simultaneous Streaming – With a single PlayStation Vue subscription, users can simultaneously stream content across multiple devices both in and out of the home.

Additional details, including launch timing, will be announced at a later time. Disney and ESPN Media Networks will offer the following networks on PlayStation Vue:

ABC Owned Stations Group
ABC Family (becoming Freeform in January)
Disney Channel
Disney Junior
Disney XD
ESPN
ESPN2
ESPN College Extra
ESPNU
ESPNEWS
ESPN Deportes
ESPN Classic
ESPN Goal Line
ESPN Buzzer Beater
ESPN Bases Loaded
Fusion
Longhorn Network
SEC-ESPN Network

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Disney Retells the Story of “Aladdin” with Emoji’s

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 5, 2015

Hurry and text your friends because there is another Disney emoji video just went live! In the all-new Aladdin as Told by Emoji video, fans can watch as emoji-fied versions of Aladdin, Jasmine, Genie, and the rest of our Aladdin friends as they retell their tale using the mechanics of a smartphone, including text threads, calendar alerts, lock screens and more.

The video is the third installment of Disney As Told By Emoji, a new collection of videos that retell popular Disney stories by recasting our favorite characters as emoji living within a mobile phone. The series kicked off in February with Frozen As Told By Emoji and was followed by Tangled As Told By Emoji. Disney As Told By Emoji is just one of the ways Disney Interactive is bringing beloved Disney stories to new platforms for existing fans and new audiences to enjoy.

Fans can join in the fun and send their own Aladdin emoji by downloading Disney Gif, a mobile app that lets users easily send gifs and emojis of their favorite stories and characters via text, email, and other messaging and social platforms. Aladdin gifs and emoji will be coming to the app very soon! Disney Gif also features content from Disney’s “Frozen,” “Star Wars”, Marvel, ABC’s “Scandal,” Disney•Pixar’s “Inside Out,” classic Disney films, and much more. Disney Gif is available from the Apple App Store and Google Play.

It is adorable, check it out:

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith. Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria