MagicBand Technology is Now Being Tested in Disneyland

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October 19, 2015

Finally! MagicBand technology is being tested at Disneyland. We knew it was a matter of time before Disneyland would get MagicBands and it seems as though they will soon be on their way.

The testing happened at Space Mountain. Guests that had a fastpass were escorted off to a separate area and told to scan the barcode of their fastpass on to one of the 2 RFID readers. If the lights turn green they were good to go. There were not actual MagicBands being tested just yet. They are using the RIFD cards right now, but it is the same technology. Disneyland guests are not used to this, they use a ticket that has their return time on it. Sound familiar? I am sure if the testing goes as planned Disneyland will soon have MagicBands or at the very least RFID technology.

MagicBands have been very profitable for Disney World. Just look at all of the specialty and limited edition bands. Along with the accessories like sliders and bandits. Not to mention they have increased the amount that people spend because the MagicBands make buying easy.

As far as Fastpass+ goes there has been no testing with that at Disneyland. Just RFID right now.

Share your thoughts?

Photo credit Inside the Magic

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Trailer

By

Chip

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October 19, 2015

Watch the official trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, coming to theaters December 18, 2015.

Purchase your Advance Tickets for Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Fandango and enter the Fandango exclusive Star Wars: The Force Awakens Sweepstakes.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens: Advance Ticket Sales, Trailer Debut And Sweepstakes from Fandango

By

Chip

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October 19, 2015

Are you on the light or dark side of the Force? While we all wait patiently for the new trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens and plan our trips to Disney World to see the premiere at the Disney Springs AMC, Advance Tickets going on sale now, but there’s also an amazing Fandango exclusive Star Wars: The Force Awakens Sweepstakes. And, if that isn’t enought to get your light sabers all a-glow, the Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer! Check out the details on all the Star Wars: The Force Awakens news below.

ADVANCE TICKETS

Purchase your Advance Tickets for Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Fandango now!

TRAILER DEBUT

Click here to see the trailer.

FANDANGO EXCLUSIVE – STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS SWEEPSTAKES

Make sure that the Force is with you when you purchase your Star Wars: The Force Awakens tickets on Fandango. You will be automatically entered for a chance to win some amazing Star Wars prizes – including a trip to the film’s world premiere – when you purchase Advance Tickets toStar Wars: The Force Awakens on Fandango through November 13 at 10:00am PST.

Plus, you can Increase your chances to win by purchasing your tickets within the first 24 hours of Advance Ticket sales.

GRAND PRIZE

One (1) lucky Grand Prize Winner will win a red carpet Star Wars experience that includes:

– Two (2) tickets to the World Premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens

– Roundtrip airfare to California

– Three (3) nights hotel accommodations

– Rental car

RUNNER-UP PRIZES

Ten (10) runners-up will receive a Star Wars “Light Side” or “Dark Side” Prize Pack that includes:

“Light Side” Prize Pack

– One (1) Finn – Elite Series Die Cast Figure (6 1/2″)

– One (1) Rey & BB-8 – Elite Series Die Cast Figure (6″)

– One (1) Star Wars: The Force Awakens poster

“Dark Side” Prize Pack

– One (1) Captain Phasma – Elite Series Die Cast Figure (7 1/4″)

– One (1) Kylo Ren – Elite Series Die Cast Figure (7 1/2″)

– One (1) Star Wars: The Force Awakens poster

Enter the Star Wars: The Force Awakens Sweepstakes without purchase

See Official Rules for the Star Wars: The Force Awakens Sweepstakes

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes begins at 5pm PT on 10/19/15 and ends at 10am PT on 11/13/15. Open to legal residents of 49 U.S. & D.C. (void in RI, Puerto Rico, all U.S. territories, possessions and overseas military installations), 18 or older (or age of majority in jurisdiction of residence, whichever is older) with active email account and internet access as of 10/19/15. Odds of winning dependent upon total number of eligible entries received. 1-Grand Prize: a three (3) night trip with roundtrip flight to, and accommodations in CA for Grand Prize Winner and guest to attend the premiere screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in December 2015. 10-Runner Up Prizes: five (5) runner-up winners will receive a “Light Side” prize pack and five (5) runner-up winners will receive a “Dark Side” prize pack. ARV: $69.90 each. Total ARV of all Prizes: $4,699 USD. See Official Rules at www.fandango.com/sweepstakesrules/theforceawakens for complete prize details, retail values, and free alternate methods of entry. All Rights Reserved. Sponsor: Fandango Media, LLC

Updated Walt Disney World Refurbishment Schedule for October 2015

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 19, 2015

Refurbishments at Walt Disney World are unfortunately a necessary evil. Hopefully, this updated list will help you plan your trip and make sure you will get to experience your favorite attractions! Yes, Disney has added Soarin’ to the list of rides that will be down starting in January. This will cause a lot of heartache for those planning to travel in early 2016! Hopefully, it will return bigger and better than ever!

Monorail

Now- December 2015
The Walt Disney World® Resort Monorail System is undergoing refurbishment and may be on modified service and/or routes. If Guests plan to use this form of transportation during their visit they should check to be sure of the best option available on their day of travel, as alternative transportation options will be available.

MAGIC KINGDOM:

Liberty Tree Tavern Re-opening November 19, 2015
The Diamond Horseshoe Re-opening November 19,2015
Walt Disney World® Railroad October 12-November 20, 2015
Disney’s The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour October 12-November 20, 2015
Peter Pan’s Flight November 2-7, 2015
Splash Mountain January 10-14, 2016
Tomorrowland Transit People Mover December 7-11,2015

EPCOT:

Re-Imagination of Maelstrom Now-April 30th, 2016

Soarin’ January 4-Early Summer 2016

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS:

Jedi Training Academy October 4,-November 30, 2015
Catalina Eddie’s October 11-November 19, 2015
Rosie’s All-American Café October 4- November 19, 2015

ANIMAL KINGDOM:

Primeval Whirl Now-November 12, 2015
Pizzafari Now- November 14, 2015

Disney Water Parks:

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park: Annual refurbishment: January 3-March 12, 2016

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park: Annual Refurbishment: October 4, 2015- January 2

RESORTS:

All Star Sports: Grand Slam Pool October 26-December 18,2015

Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House: Uzima Pool December 14-16,2015

Boardwalk Inn: Exterior Painting and repair: Now- May 5, 2016

Caribbean Beach Resort:

Bridge Closure: Now- November 26, 2015

The main bridge going from Aruba and Jamaica to Old Port Royale will be closed. Guests may take a shuttle, internal van, or boat from Aruba to Bike Works.

Jamaica Pool January 6-8, 2016

Travel Paths January 3-Feb 28, 2016

Guests in some parts of Martinique and Trinidad North may experience some construction noise.

Old Key West Resort: Sandcastle Pool January 4-6, 2016

Polynesian Village Resort: East pool and general construction : Through early 2016

POP Century Resort:

Computer Pool: November 30-December 3, 2015

Bowling Pin Pool: December 7-10,2015

Port Orleans French Quarter: Kiddie Pool: Now through December 24, 2015

Wilderness Lodge and Villas:

General Resort Refurbishments

Due to multiple resort refurbishment projects, Guests will notice construction work in various areas. Noise may be overheard while this work is being completed, but construction will not begin until after 9 a.m.

Certain pathways, including the nature trail, will be unavailable. October 2 through 2017

The Hidden Springs leisure pool area (the leisure pool at The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge), resort beach, playground and Recreation fire pit will be unavailable.October 26 through 2017

Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel :

Guest Room Renovations Now through December 21, 2015

Renovation work is scheduled to take place between 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. No guests will be accommodated in the renovation area as to minimize impact on the guest experience. June-September 2016

Disney Springs: Now – March 2016

Roadwork on Buena Vista Drive
Due to heavy roadwork, expect delays on Buena Vista Drive. It is recommended that Guests use complimentary Walt Disney World Resort transportation from Parks and Resorts to Downtown Disney and plan to arrive early for reserved dining and entertainment experiences.

Planet Hollywood: January 1-June 1, 2016 closed

I know that these announcements make some of us quite sad, and hopefully they do not ruin your magical vacation! Just remember that they are making things better for all of us to enjoy!

For more information and updates, contact me at [email protected] and follow Chip and Co.!

Will any of you be affected by the closing of Soarin’? Let us know! This is probably the most upsetting of the refurbishments to date!

Soarin’ Will Soon be Closed for long Refurbishment

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Disney News

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October 19, 2015

According to the Disney World website Soarin’ will be closing January 4th, 2016 and will re-open in the summer of 2016. They are closing to add a third theater and to enhance the existing theaters.

Earlier this year we released information about the new show Soarin’ Around the World.

The all new Soarin’ Around the World will take you on an amazing new journey. You will soar over far away lands and over some of the most amazing landscapes that you will ever see. All without leaving Florida! This attraction will use the same technology as the attraction Shanghai.

So are you going to miss Soarin while it closes for a refurb? Let us know in the comment box below.

Star Wars Battlefront Review for Xbox One

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 19, 2015

2885934 star wars battlefront e3 screen 3 saber clash v2 thumbnail

I figured with all of the excitement over the new Star Wars movie poster released and talks about how amazing the movie is going to be that you guys might enjoy this game review my nearly 18 year old son (birthday on Halloween) did on the latest Star Wars game on Xbox One. He had a chance to play the game during the beta testing a few days ago, and from what I can tell he really liked it. I guess I know what I’m getting him from Christmas! So enjoy!

Game Details:

Star Wars Battlefront-2015
Star Wars Battlefront is an upcoming action first- and third-person shooter video game based on the Star Wars franchise.
Initial release date: November 17, 2015
Series: Star Wars: Battlefront
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: EA DICE
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Genres: Action game, Shooter game

Listed below are Joshua’s thoughts after playing for several days.

Star Wars Battlefront Review:

Once you start playing Star Wars Battlefront there is no stopping. You become immersed within the world of the game, whether you are a fan of star wars or not. Star Wars Battlefront graps your attention almost immediately because of its gameplay, graphics, and soundtrack.

Gameplay:
Star Wars Battlefront was made by DICE, who also created the Battlefield series. This is important to know, if you plan on buying Star Wars Battlefront, because the game mechanics are very similar. In my opinion, I think the gameplay in the Battlefield games are well done, so I am pretty happy in the way Star Wars Battlefront plays.

Graphics:
Star Wars Battlefront’s graphics are tremendous. The first time you play, you can’t help but forget that there is a huge battle happening in front of you, because instead of fighting you are looking around at the stunning visuals that are in the game. As far as graphics, this is one of DICE’s best jobs yet.

Soundtrack:
The soundtrack in Star Wars Battlefront is one of my favorites in recent video games. I think everyone, whether you have seen the films or Star Wars films not, has at least heard some of its music. If you are winning the match, the music makes you feel like a boss, but that same music can make you feel very tense if you are losing.

Cons:
There was nothing I had too much of a problem with, besides the lack of a single-player campaign. In the Battlefield series, the single-player campaign has never been its priority, but not having one at all is very disappointing.

For more of Joshua’s thoughts once the game is fully released you can check out his Twitter account, HERE.

My name is Leigh Saleh. I’m a Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel. I’m a Universal Orlando Specialist, SeaWorld Parks Specialist, Legoland Florida Specialist and a Disney Destination Specialist as well as many more destinations including cruise lines. Email me today at [email protected] to book your next “Magical” family vacation to your favorite destination.

You can also visit my Facebook page, click here for more details, and updates on special offers to your favorite travel destinations. You will also find a ton of pictures from Walt Disney World,Disney Cruise Line, SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, and Legoland Florida.

**The Official photographs property of Disney and Electronic Arts **

Disney Finds – Fun Disney Inspired Earrings

By

Chip

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October 19, 2015

Did you see my post yesterday about the fun Disney charms under $3 from designer HokeyDonut? You should check them out. Today I wanted to focus on their fun Disney Earrings that are perfect for wearing around the house or for fun days at the parks. Here are some of the Disney Designs they have available:

and many more. This is only part of the items designer HokeyDonut has for sale. Drop by their store and check out all of the fun Disney Designs, and as always Happy Shopping!

5 Things You Won’t Want to Miss in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 19, 2015

As a follow up to my Top 5 Things You Won’t Want to Miss in EPCOT I’m here to tell you about Animal Kingdom today. My lists are, of course, my opinion only. The attractions listed in this series are meant to be for all ages and stages so no matter who is in your party these are great stops for one and all. While large in square mileage, Animal Kingdom offers far less thrills but other areas that might appeal to younger children, those who wish to have a slower paced Disney day or animal lovers of all kinds. There are so many wonderful updates happening at Animal Kingdom soon…I can’t wait to add some new ones to this list! Let’s talk about my current Top 5!

1. Kilimanjaro Safari

This amazing safari ride takes you right onto the Harambe Wildlife Preserve. You’ll board the large all-terrain vehicle and meet your tour guide. 18 minutes later you’ll have seen animals you ever thought you’d get such a great view of. My favorite time to take this tour is first thing so the animals are out lounging before that Florida sun is too high in the sky. Everyone will love this from my two year old to your 80 year old Grandpa!

2. Finding Nemo the Musical & Festival of The Lion King

I will preface this with the fact that I am not a huge musical fan. But I am a huge Disney fan and we all know Disney does everything right! The colors and music and sounds you will experience will stun even the non-musical fans. This is the next best thing to catching your favorite characters on the Broadway stage. It’s also a nice cool break mid-day for your group.

3. Wildlife Express Train

I’m a real sucker for a train ride through Disney, I’ll just say that now! This 7 minute ride transports you from Africa to Rafiki’s Planet Watch and vice versa. The best part is going through the back areas of the animal enclosures and veterinary facilities. This is a really cool way to relax and get a view that you wouldn’t get on foot.

4. Discovery Island Trails

This awesome trail encircles the Tree of Life giving you some close up views of the ornate animal carvings and wildlife. You will see live flamingos, porcupines and kangaroos, among other animals. Who knows what else you may bump into! The paths will bring you into what feels like lush jungle and are easy to navigate.

5. Maharajah Jungle Trek

You can’t pass up the opportunity to see the glorious tigers, tons of exotic birds and even a flying fox. You pass waterfalls, footbridges and elaborate palace replicas. To experience the full effect of Animal Kingdom you simply must get to see as many of these creatures as possible.

I am looking forward to helping you plan your dream vacation and your trip to Animal Kingdom! Contact me today for a free quote and follow me on Facebook!

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Opening Night Event Planned For Disney Springs AMC & Hollywood Studios

By

Chip

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October 18, 2015

Earlier today Disney released the news about a “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Opening Night Event, a special ticketed event that’s planned for Thursday, December 17 at the Walt Disney World Resort for those who want to be among the first to see the new film and celebrate with fellow fans.

Starting at AMC Disney Springs 24 between 7 and 8 p.m., guests of the Opening Night Event will have a confirmed seat at the first few public showings of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and then enjoy a private after-hours party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios until 2 a.m.

The party will include access to the new Star Wars Launch Bay exhibit, the Star Tours – The Adventures Continue attraction, and a DJ dance party. The night will be highlighted with the preview of a new fireworks spectacular set to the iconic “Star Wars” score. Event attendees will also get a commemorative souvenir event ticket. Guests of the Event are encouraged to come dressed in costume showing allegiance to the light side or dark side of the Force. Please see the Costume Guidelines in the FAQs.

The newest “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” trailer will debut in ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” Monday, October 19, during halftime of the National Football League (NFL) game between the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles. Tune in to ESPN to watch the premiere of the final trailer or join your fellow Star Wars fans at Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, CA to watch the trailer on a giant screen outside AMC Downtown Disney 12 theatres. The fun begins at 5:00 p.m. counting down to the trailer release.

Following the trailer launch, tickets to the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Opening Night Event will be on sale. For tickets to the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Opening Night Event at Walt Disney World Resort, visit amctheatres.com/starwarswdw to purchase.

Here are some important FAQs for the event.

Don’t forget to check out a new Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer during Monday night football tomorrow on ESPN!

This film is not yet rated. The number of tickets available is limited. Event may sell out early. Tickets are valid only on specific Event date and hours. Entertainment, ticket types, entitlements and prices subject to change and cancelation without notice. Tickets are nontransferable. Star Tours© Disney/Lucasfilm, Ltd. Star Wars: TM & © Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved. As to Disney properties/artwork: ©Disney.

Pumpkin-licious Disney Desserts! (Take 5) Pumpkin Mousse

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 18, 2015

Well, this is it, the final recipe in our Pumpkin-licious Disney Dessert series and boy is it a good one! Our final recipe is for a creamy, dreamy Pumpkin Mousse! And finally, one from the east coast! This one belongs to the Epcot Food & Wine festival and combines delicious layers of spice cake, pumpkin mousse, apricot sauce and a crunchy craisin dappled streusel to top it off! Yep, the best is always last!

You can find this potential pumpkin pie replacement right outside of the good, old American Pavilion and it is worth a stop! If you can’t be there to taste this tempting treat, no worries! Now you can make it at home and serve it for Thanksgiving dessert! Trying something new is always fun and if it’s a Disney recipe it’s almost guaranteed to be a huge hit! Now, here’s the recipe my fellow pumpkin fans…

Pumpkin Mousse Trifle with Cranberries and Apricot-Orange Sauce
(Serves 6 to 8)

Streusel
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons butter, melted
Apricot-Orange Sauce
1/2 cup apricot jam
1/4 cup orange juice

Pumpkin Mousse
1 egg yolk or 1/4 cup pasteurized egg yolks
3/4 cup canned pumpkin pie filling
3/4 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup heavy cream
Store-bought spice cake mix, prepared per package directions and cooled
1/2 cup Ocean Spray Craisins
For streusel:
Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a sheet pan with foil; set aside.

Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and sugar in a medium bowl. Add melted butter and stir until mixture is crumbly.
Pour onto prepared sheet pan; bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Set aside to cool; crumble into small pieces.

For orange sauce:

Combine apricot jam and orange juice in a medium bowl. Whisk together until smooth.

For pumpkin mousse:

Whisk egg yolk into pumpkin pie filling. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave or using a double boiler.
Whisk melted white chocolate into pumpkin mixture.
Whip heavy cream to medium peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into pumpkin mixture.

To serve:

Cut spice cake into cubes. Place a dollop of mousse at the bottom of a serving dish. Top with cranberries and a drizzle of sauce.
Place a few cubes of cake over mousse. Top with another layer of mousse, cranberries and sauce, then top with streusel.

Sounds D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S! Ok, so since this our final recipe in the Pumpkin-licious series, I expect you to post your comments below! How did your Pumpkin Mousse turn out? Cannot wait to hear all about it!

Here are all 5 Disney Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin-licious Disney Desserts! (Take 5) Pumpkin Mousse
Pumpkin-licious Disney Desserts! (Take 4) Pumpkin Beignets
Pumpkin-licious Disney Desserts! (Take 3) Pumpkin Muffins
Pumpkin-licious Disney Desserts! (Take 2) Pumpkin Twists
Pumpkin-licious Disney Desserts! Try the Pumpkin Cheesecake

As we are steaming, full speed ahead into the Holiday Season, I love to try new recipes. Thanks for taking the time to read and hopefully try the recipes in this series and we really hope that you let us know how you liked (or should I say LOVED) them! If you want an opportunity to try these tasty treats in person, send me an email and I will be happy to help you out! You can reach me at [email protected], now, let the magic begin!

The Adorably Spooktacular Halloween Disney Gift Cards Now Available

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 18, 2015

I love Disney and I love Halloween, so I am in love with these gift cards. Mickey and Minnie looks so cute all dressed up in their Halloween costumes. The Halloween themed gift cards are sold in select spots throughout the Disney World Resort. You know what makes these cards extra cute? They glow in the dark! All you have to do is load the card with at least $15.00 and you can use it pretty much everywhere in the parks and resorts.

If you will be going to Disneyland to celebrate Halloween than have no fear, you can find the Halloween themed gift cards at select locations there too.

If you are not going to visit the parks for the season you can still get these gift cards by visiting DisneyGiftCard.com. However, you can only get the the version that does not glow in the dark thorough the website.

If you are not into Mickey and Minnie and you want something slightly more Halloween themed perhaps, you might like the online exclusive Jack and Sally gift card. I know someone who would love that one!

Which one is your favorite?

Happy Halloween!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Socks Gone Cute with New D-Style Collection

By

Danielle

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October 18, 2015

Recently the Disney Store unveiled “D/Style” a new curated collection of stylish Disney items from Japan. With this collection has come tons of cute new socks! Kawaii!!

There’s many classic favorites all set to keep your toes cozy, as well as some adorable Tsum Tsum versions of other favorites. These fun little goodies would be great with a pair of low slung boots, cute Mary Jane’s, or even modest pumps to show off a little Disney love in your every day. These would make the perfect accessory to a slumber party pajama outfit, or to keep the tootsies warm while hanging around with the family on vacation. Check out the new cuties below!

Which ones are your favorites? Or will you be like me and want to collect them all!!