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Behind the Scenes of the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

March 27, 2014

I am sure you can tell by the beautiful topiaries that a lot of work goes into the Epcot Flower & Garden festival. Here is some behind the scenes info on the magic behind the beauty.

It take a team of 400 gardeners, horticulturists and landscape architects about a year to perfect these beautiful topiaries. There are whopping 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs involved.

Nearly all of the 100 topiaries starts with a wire frame. They using 25 different plants including fichus, palm fiber and multi-colored mosses. Each topiary is trimmed with precision at least once a week throughout the festival to maintain its shape.

“Topiaries are always one the most anticipated elements of the festival,” said Eric Darden, the horticulture manager who oversees the Epcot event. “Everyone involved with the festival understands the important role of topiaries and takes great pride in making sure they closely resemble our beloved characters.”

Did you know that there are nearly 30 million blooms throughout the park during the Flower & Garden Festival? They include:

700 container gardens of flowers, herbs, plants and vegetables,

225 floating mini-gardens and

approximately 70,000 bedding plants in Future World alone.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney News & Event Roundup for Disney World, Disneyland, and More

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 27, 2014

What’s New at Walt Disney World and Disneyland This Week

New things are popping up every day at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Join us each week to find out what’s new at Disney! This week features updates on the Magic Kingdom Park construction, various events taking place in the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland.

What’s New This Week

Walt Disney World Resort in Florida

Catch up on all the latest Disney News & Events happening at Disney World & Disneyland. Here is a peek of some of the events & news you might have missed:

New! Seven Dwarfs Mine Train News: Additional construction walls came down around the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train this week! The side of the mountain closest to Be Our Guest Restaurant and the new castle walls is now visible to guests. More of the twists and turns of the track is revealed and guests will have a great view of any ride vehicle testing! Also, the new attraction’s logo was released this week as well.

New! Anna and Elsa from ‘Frozen’ Heading to Magic Kingdom Park: We’re excited to share that Anna and Elsa, from Disney’s Academy Award-winning film “Frozen,” will soon move from Epcot to Magic Kingdom Park. Starting April 20, they’ll join some of their fellow Disney Royals at Princess Fairytale Hall, where Disney FastPass+ service will be available for this character greeting experience.

New! “Maleficent” sneak peek coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios April 18, 2014: The thrilling final trailer for “Maleficent” has just been released, and starting April 18, 2014 a special extended sneak peek will be playing daily at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the ABC Sound Studio through mid-June.

New! Castle Painting in Progress: Back in January, we informed you Cinderella’s Castle would have a crane in view through the end of March for removal of the Dream Lights as well as routine painting. Painting has been taking place on the castle turrets for the past week or so, which has included a “new” silver color. While Disney has not released a statement, Cast Members tell us this silver color is more or less a “primer” and the turrets will be returned to their usual blue hue soon.

New! Draw Olaf at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Animation Academy at The Magic of Disney Animation: Recently, a few characters from Disney’s “Frozen” were added into the rotation of Disney characters the character artists teach guests how to draw every day. With the popularity of “Frozen,” it’s not surprise that Olaf has become one of the most requested characters at the experience. We had the opportunity to draw Elsa back in February too!

New! Kingdom Keepers VII: The Insider Set to Debut at Disney Parks: Acclaimed author Ridley Pearson will appear at Walt Disney World in celebration of the release of his newest book, “Kingdom Keepers VII: The Insider.” It is the much-anticipated, final addition to the Kingdom Keepers saga. Ridley will be making special appearances on the following dates at Walt Disney World Resort:

March 26 – Once Upon a Toy, Downtown Disney Marketplace (4-6 p.m.)
March 27 – Writer’s Stop, Disney’s Hollywood Studios (9-11 a.m.)
Wristbands will be distributed to guests on the day of the signings at the event location.

Update! Changes in Progress Around Iconic Magic Kingdom “Hub”: According to the Disney Parks Blog, “We’re adding several new elements to the area, including sculpted gardens, additional pathways, expanded restaurant seating and even a special viewing area for fireworks and other performances.” Other enhancements will include new trees and more landscaping in the Central Plaza area. To make it easier to move around, two additional pathways will be built around the plaza. Also, seating outside of Casey’s Corner and The Plaza restaurant will nearly double in size. This multi-phase enhancement project has already begun and it’ll be completed in 2015. Casey’s Corner seating has already been increased. The castle moats were drained in preparation for construction, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe’s former outdoor seating is now enclosed and the Swan Boat Landing has been removed. Also, the Hub popcorn cart has been relocated near the entrance of Adventureland while the work takes place.

New! Happy Hound Kiosk at Downtown Disney: Stop by the Marketplace to visit the new Happy House kiosk. Located behind Fun Finds, this unique kiosk offers accessories for your canine companion, including leashes, glamour collars, food bowls, outfits, jackets and an assortment of squeaky toys!

Reminder! Annual Passholders Can Customize and Order MagicBands: Annual Passholders will soon be receiving MagicBands as the phased rollout continues. Log on to DisneyWorld.com to access your My Disney Experience account. Make sure your annual pass is linked to your account under ‘MagicBands & Cards.” Under “Your Orders,” you should see an option to customize and order your Band! Your Band will ship at the end of the month or as soon as you click the button that says “Ship MagicBands now.”

Reminder! Registration Now Open for Fit Challenge at ESPN Wide World of Sports in September: The sport of competitive fitness, which is growing rapidly nationally and internationally, is coming to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort, the site of the inaugural Disney Fit Challenge this September. Capitzlizing on the growing CrossFit phenomenon, Disney Fit Challenge will be a three-day event (Sept 26-28) involving athletes competing in different fitness challenges that test an athlete’s speed, strength, skill, endurance, balance and power. Registration opened March 18.

Reminder! New Epcot Illuminations Dessert Party Debuted Last Week: Make your visit to Epcot extra sweet with tempting treats, spirited drinks and a VIP view of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. Savor international desserts and wines in an intimate, exclusive setting and enjoy a clear view of the World Showcase Lagoon as it erupts in color and sound during the Epcot nighttime fireworks spectacular, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. The dessert parties will be held Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights from 7:45 PM to 9:20 PM. Advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days in advance. The cost is $49.99 for adults and $29.99 for children, prices include tax. Park admission is required (and not included).

Reminder! Watch for Coupons on Quick Service Dining Receipts: Certain quick-service locations in Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort theme parks will give a merchandise coupon attached to your receipt March 18 – April 28. The coupon offers 20% off purchase at participating merchandise locations during store opening and 1 p.m between March 18-April 29.

Reminder! Disney Vacation Club hosts Food Truck Tuesdays at Saratoga Springs Resort: Food trucks inspired by Walt Disney World Theme Parks will visit Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa as part of a Membership Magic experience. Created for Disney Vacation Club Members but open to all Guests, this limited-time food truck service will take place near the Grandstand Pool on March 11, 18, 25 from 5-8 p.m. Food will be available for purchase, and complimentary cupcakes will be will be provided with meal purchase while supplies last. In addition to the food trucks, Disney Vacation Club will host a face painter, balloon artist and caricature artist that Members and Guests can enjoy.

New! Merchandise Events:

March 21-26: David E. Dons will be appearing daily at The Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Stop in and find a new piece of art to add to your collection
March 26 – 27: Are you a fan of Ridley Pearson? Are you ready for the release of “Kingdom Keepers VII: The Insider”? If your answer was yes, then be sure to check out all the details on Ridley Pearson’s appearances and details on the last book in the beloved Kingdom Keepers series.

Closures and Refurbishments

Magic Kingdom

Splash Mountain Jan 6 – Mar 21, 2014
Splashdown Photos Jan 6 – Mar 21, 2014
Monorail – MK Express Jan 21 – Mar 21, 2014
Pinocchio’s Village Haus Feb 17 – Mar 30, 2014
Big Thunder Mountain April 7 – 9, 2014
Pirates of the Caribbean April 28 – May 1, 2014
Tomorrowland Transit Authority – Peoplemover May 3 – June 30, 2014
Astro Orbiter May 3 – Aug 20, 2014

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

None

Epcot

None

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Festival of the Lion King Jan 6, 2014 – summer
Camp Minnie-Mickey Jan 6, 2014 – permanent closure

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Roof Refurbishment Mar 1 – May 3, 2014

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail service will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available Jan 21-Mar 21, 2014

Disney’s Polynesian Resort

General Construction Dec 2013 – March 2015
The Never Land Club Jan 28 – Apr 27, 2014
Great Ceremonial House Lobby March – December 2014
Capt. Cook’s to close and an alternate dining experience will be available Mar 26 – Jun, 2014
Beach & Sunset Point Access to the east portion of the beach, near the Transportation and Ticket Center, and Sunset Point will be unavailable due to a scheduled refurbishment.
Some rooms in certain room categories in impacted buildings have been taken off the market during the renovation period.
Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail service will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available Jan 21-Mar 21, 2014

The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

General Construction including jackhammering work Mar 26-27

Disneyland Resort in California

New! The D23 Expo Will Return to Disneyland in 2015: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is returning to Anaheim in 2015. D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will present the D23 Expo the weekend of August 14-16 at the Anaheim Convention Center, right across the street from the Disneyland Resort. Once again, all the wonderful worlds of Disney will come together under one roof including film, television, music, games and – of course – theme parks!

New! Vinylmation Trading Locations at Disneyland Resort: Guests who visit Disneyland Resort can trade Vinylmation at the following locations: Disneyland Park – The Star Trader and Disney Showcase, Downtown Disney – D Street, and Disney California Adventure Park – Off the Page. Disneyana no longer offers Vinylmation trading.

New! Dark Chocolate Raspberry Gourmet Apple at Disneyland Park: The newest addition from the Disneyland REsort Candy Making team is an over-the-top apple concoction! This month’s caramel apple has been covered in dark chocolate and has been encased with semi-sweet chocolate and white chocolate chips and almonds. They have infused raspberry into white chocolate and drizzled it over the entire apple. YUM!

New! Kingdom Keepers VII: The Insider Set To Debut at Disney Parks: Acclaimed author Ridley Pearson will appear at the Disneyland Resort in celebration of the release of his newest book, “Kingdom Keepers VII: The Insider.” It is the much-anticipated, final addition to the Kingdom
Keepers saga. Ridley will be making a special appearance at Disneyland Resort March 29 at Disneyana, Disneyland park (10 a.m. – Noon).

Reminder! Watch for Coupons on Quick Service Dining Receipts: Certain quick-service locations in Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort theme parks will give a merchandise coupon attached to your receipt March 18 through April 28 The coupon offers 20 percent off purchase at participating merchandise locations during store opening and 1 p.m. between March 18 and April 29.

Reminder! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopened March 17: In addition to an upgraded track, restoration of the historic Rainbow Ridge Mining Town, repainting on portions of the mountain and updates to the ride vehicles, the refurbishment also includes some new surprises that guests should lookout for when they ride again after March 17th!

Reminder! Disneyland Today is the Official Social Media Source for Disneyland Resort: Beginning March 10, Disneyland’s official source for in-park social media updates and information, Disneyland Today, will expand to cover the entire Disneyland Resort. Joining forces with DCA Today, Disneyland Today will answer questions and provide real-time tips and updates for both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park and now the Downtown Disney District and all three resort hotels. Be sure follow @DisneylandToday on Twitter and Facebook (Facebook.com/DisneylandToday) for updates and in-park opportunities during your visits.

New! Merchandise Events

March 22: Meet artists Jeff Granito and Michelle Romo who will be appearing at WonderGround Gallery from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. as we celebrate some of their newest releases.
March 22: Local Southern California artist Noah will be on hand for a special appearance and signing from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District as we release his newest piece titled “Faith, Trust and Pixie Dust” featuring Tinker Bell.
March 28: Calling all Traders! Disney Trading Night will take place from 5 – 8 p.m. in the Pacific Ballroom at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. So if you are looking to meet avid and novice traders, make friends, or share stories about your collections, then this is the place for you.● Appearing as the Artist in Residence at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District throughout the month of March is local artist Jeff Granito. Look for special artist showcases on the following dates: February 28 and March 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 from 5 – 9 p.m.

Closures and Refurbishments
Click here to download the latest renovations and closures at Disneyland.

For help planning your next magical vacation contact Gretchen, an agent with Destinations in Florida, the preferred Earmarked Agency of Chip & Co at [email protected].

Enter the “Muppets Most Wanted” Sweepstakes

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 27, 2014

Yamaha Entertainment Group is celebrating Disney’s new “Muppets Most Wanted” film. They are giving away a trip for 4 to New York City, my favorite city.

1 grand-prize winner and 3 guests will have the opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of the Big Apple among the bright lights of Broadway, which is a very fitting nod to the world-famous Muppets and their history of memorable stage performances. Runner-up prizes include an autographed poster and Muppets Most Wanted soundtrack, and assorted movie merchandise.

In theaters nationwide, Disney’s “Muppets Most Wanted,” takes the entire Muppets gang on a global tour where they find themselves unwittingly entangled in an international crime caper. A tribute to the new movie and the Muppets’ global domination, a one-of-a-kind, green Muppets-inspired Yamaha DC3XE3PRO piano was created and is featured alongside “Muppets Most Wanted” cameo star and Yamaha artist Josh Groban on the Winter 2014 edition of Yamaha’s All Access magazine.

“We’ve worked with Disney and the Muppets for many years,” said Chris Gero, founder and vice president of Yamaha Entertainment Group. “We feel privileged to have played a part in the excitement surrounding the last Muppets film, and now, ‘Muppets Most Wanted.’”

To enter Yamaha Entertainment Group’s Muppets Most Wanted Sweepstakes, head on over to http://4wrd.it/yamahammwsweeps between now and April 30, 2014, at 11:59pm CT.

Good Luck!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney’s Avengers Assembled in Less Than 2 Hours !

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

Disney’s Inaugural run Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend sold out in less than 2 hours. The Avengers Half Marathon, Avengers 5 k and even the runDisney Kids’ Races are all sold out. At the time of this writing the Pasta in the Park is at 93%. This seemed to be a very hot race, as it steps away from the “normal” Disney race by bringing the Marvel heroes into it. It will also count for your Coast to Coast medal.

AVENGERS ASSEMBLE ! Registration opens to the general public for the inaugural Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend. It started at Noon Eastern yesterday, registration will be available for everyone that didn’t get in one early registration. I have a feeling this registration will go as fast as Iron Man on a mission. Not sure if this is a runDisney event you are interested in, here’s the info on your mission.

Are you one of the ones willing to join Earth’s Mightiest Heroes on the most extraordinary course on Earth? It’s a 13.1 mile course through Disneyland Resort and the surrounding areas with entertainment on course. There is a Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters at the Finish Line.Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Race Participants Receive

Avengers Super Heroes Finisher Medal*
Champion® Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut* – Size Chart
Official Digital Event Guide*
iGiftBag
Personalized bib (Must register before August 1, 2014 for name to appear on bib)*
On-course and post-race refreshments
ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking signup for friends and family
Personalized results website

Other events for the weekend include:

The Avengers Super Heroes 5K

An INCREDIBLE Run for runners of all ages, and a chance to unleash your Super Hero abilities as you race along an extraordinary course throughout Disneyland Resort. Cheering you on, everyone’s favorite Incredible Avenger, the HULK ! This is a great race to spend time together as family, creating unforgettable memories or meeting new friends.

Race participants in the Avengers Super Heroes 5K Receive:

5K Unisex T-shirt*
5K Finisher medallion*
Official Digital Event Guide*
iGiftBag
Personalized bib (Must register by August 1, 2014 for name to appear on bib)*
On-Course and post-race refreshments

runDisney Kids Races

Designed for the tiniest of runners, this event makes sure that every kid has an “incredible” time and goes home a winner. Specially designed medals are handed out to all participants, even the Diaper Dash for crawlers ! Parents are allowed to run with their children. Encourage your children to sign up for this fun-filled weekend and help the next generation fall in love with runDisney events.

runDisney Kids Races Age Groups

12 months and under – Diaper Dash for crawlers
1-3 years old – 100m dash
4-6 years old – 200m dash
7-8 years old – 400m dash

runDisney Kids Races Participants Receive

runDisney Kids Races T-shirt*
Kids Race Finisher medallion*
Personalized race bib (Must register by August 1, 2014 for name to appear on bib)*
Post-race refreshments

Dates, times, prices and inclusions subject to change. All races are subject to capacity limits and may close at any time before the percentage can be updated. Entry fees are non-refundable.

* Participants must attend Packet Pick-up at the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend Expo to receive their race packet, bib, and t-shirt. Finisher medallions will be distributed to finishers during the race. None of these items will be mailed to registrants that did not participate.

Pasta in the Park Party

An “Incredible” buffet dinner and photos taken with your favorite characters during the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend Pasta Party! Add a magical touch to your weekend while “carb loading” before the big race. Space is limited so reserve your spot now !

The Pasta in the Park Party at the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon features

Buffet Pasta Dinner & Dessert located in Disney California Adventure® Park Stage 17
Music and Entertainment
Character Meet & Greets
Twilight Ticket to Disney California Adventure® Park (w/ticket option only)
Twilight Ticket to Disney California Adventure® Park (w/ticket option only) expires 1 week after event.

* A theme park ticket is required to enter this party.

*Tickets are non-refundable. In addition to a Pasta in the Park ticket, guests will also need valid Theme Park admission in order to gain entrance to the party and the park. If you purchase a ticket for the Pasta in the Park Party WITH a theme park ticket, you’ll receive a Twilight Ticket to enter the party. This ticket can be used to enter Disney California Adventure® Park for the Pasta in the Park Party anytime after 4:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14, 2014. This ticket will expire on November 21, 2014. All the above is subject to availability.

Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend Expo

A one-stop shop for all your super hero needs with everything you need to prepare for race weekend at the Avenger Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend Expo at Disneyland Hotel Exhibit Hall. During this two-day celebration, you will be able to check out the latest in Official Half Marathon Merchandise, get a sneak peek at the latest in fitness apparel, sunglasses, footwear, high-tech gadgets and everything else.

Don’t forget the new Packet Pick- Up Policy applies to this. ALL RUNNERS must attend the Expo for race number and packet pick-up!!

Registration for the Inaugural Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend opens at Noon EST on March 25, 2014 for the general public. Sign up here for an email reminder.

I can’t wait, after running my first runDisney event this past weekend I am now addicted to runDisney events and this one seems to rank up there as a must do. I am also glad that they are adding an event that is a little more “boy”orientated. Don’t forget to check out our Chip and Co Run Disney Addicts Page for all the latest updates, news, running tips and our next event.

Email me (or call me at 832-233-4468) and I will help get you and your fellow Avengers there to partake of this inagurual event ! At Destinations in Florida, as an Earmark agency we make it our job to make your vacation worry free. Contact me today and I can get started as your free personal travel assistant.

Vegetarian and Vegan Food Options at Disneyland Resort

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

Amusement park food options for vegetarians typically consist of cheese pizza and French fries. If you’re lucky, perhaps there is a bowl of iceberg lettuce with a glob of ranch that could be purchased. For vegans, your choices are usually even more abysmal. Over the years, Disneyland Resort has done well to expand its healthier options and provide a greater selection for vegans and vegetarians. In fact, there are many options that would satisfy even the most carnivorous of your party.

Disneyland

Carnation Café: Disneyland’s renowned restaurant on Main Street has updated its menu in recent months, and there are some great veggie options. Vegetarians, make sure you stop in for breakfast. Carnation Café offers apple-granola pancakes and huevos rancheros (corn tortilla, poached eggs, jack cheese and fire-roasted salsa with avocado-black bean pico de gallo). For Vegans, Carnation Café offers the Chef’s Vegan Burger for dinner and lunch.

Café Orleans: By chance, my favorite meal in all of Disneyland happens to be vegetarian, and it’s found at Café Orleans: the three-cheese Monte Cristo. I’m not even a vegetarian, but I could eat this meal every day of each of our Disneyland vacations if the rest of my family were to let me. Make it even better by ordering it with the pommes frites. For vegans, try the vegetable ragout, but hold the cheese. They also have the Crescent City Salad that is still great even without the meat and cheese.

Blue Bayou: This classic Disneyland restaurant offers both ambience and healthy selections. Veggies and Vegans alike can enjoy the Portobello mushroom and couscous maque choux while watching the boats of Pirates of the Caribbean go by. As always, make a reservation, get there about 15 minutes early, and ask for a waterside table when you check in.

Honorable Mentions: Soups are the specialty at Harbour Galley, and they typically always have a vegetarian option. I personally love grabbing a broccoli cheese soup bread bowl for dinner and then camp out a spot on Rivers of America for Fantasmic while my husband takes our girls on a few rides to keep them occupied. Also, Royal Street Veranda offers a vegan option with their gumbo in a bread bowl.

Disney California Adventure

Paradise Garden Grill: Veggies and Vegans should head straight over to Paradise Pier next to Goofy’s Sky School for this quick service option. The best choice on the menu is the tofu skewer with Moroccan chili sauce, chimichurri (Vegan), or tzatziki. If you’re hungry, try all three!

Carthay Circle: Arguably the best restaurant inside DCA, the recently added Carthay Circle has plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. For vegetarians, they offer a grilled eggplant sandwich with sautéed artichokes, tomatoes, garlic, and melted reserve cheeses on rustic country bread. Another popular choice is the squash ravioli. Vegans often enjoy the vegan pasta or vegan tower featuring seasonal produce that is customized for each guest!

Award Wieners: This popular quick service restaurant offers a vegetarian Portobello mushroom Philly. Kids love the assortment of hot dogs available here, and with this delicious option, you won’t have to make another stop to get yourself something to eat.

Downtown Disney

Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria/ Napolini: This Downtown Disney table service restaurant and its sister quick service counter offer well known Italian vegetarian favorites just as pizza, pasta, and eggplant dishes.

The Grand Californian

Napa Rose: Upon first glance at the menu, a lot of vegans and vegetarians discount this restaurant for its lack of options. However, you would be doing yourself an immense disservice if you did the same. Napa Rose is widely touted as one of the best restaurant in all of southern California. You know a restaurant in California would never get such a reputation if it didn’t have delicious healthy options. If you don’t like the vegan or vegetarian options on the menu, speak up! Ask your server if there are any other vegetarian/vegan selections. They will ask you what you have in mind or what you would like. After that, the chef or restaurant manager will come out and specially make you something!

What is your favorite vegetarian dish at Disneyland Resort? Did I leave out your favorite? Let me know! Remember, when you book your vacation with Destinations in Florida, your dining reservations can be made by your travel agent!

Try Some Different Dining On Your Next Disney Trip!

Catie

March 26, 2014

So we are a few months into the New Year, and I was thinking about the Disney New Year’s Resolutions I made – and one of them was to try new things – and one area which I especially wanted to broaden my horizons was in Disney Dining – I have never disliked anything I have eaten at Disney, but I realized that there is PLENTY out there that I haven’t even tried yet! So if you’re like me, maybe you will want to think about branching out when it comes to Dining at Disney. Not sure how?

Try these tips:

Venture To New Locations: I definitely think it’s worth it to go “off the beaten path” when it comes to Disney Dining – heading to a Resort that might take some time to get to, or making a reservation at a Downtown Disney restaurant that you haven’t tried – these might really be worth your while! There really are some amazing restaurant options at the WDW Resort Hotels – like ‘Ohana (which I tried in December and absolutely LOVED) which is located just a monorail ride away from the Magic Kingdom at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Or you could take a boat from Epcot over to Disney’s Boardwalk Resort where you’ll find delicious Greek inspired dishes at Kouzzina and beers brewed on site at Big River Grille and Brewing Works. Or you could head on over to Downtown Disney- which is known primarily for its shopping, but they also offer tons of delicious cuisine – like a twist on classic American dishes at Wolfgang Puck, or authentic Irish dishes (and dancing and music!) at Raglan Road Irish Pub

Try Exotic Cuisine: “Theme Park Food” gets a bad reputation – a lot of it is frozen burgers/chicken/fried foods that don’t taste particularly good – but lucky for us – Disney has worked VERY hard to break out of that mold and offer fresh, quality food to its guests. You can certainly get hamburgers/chicken fingers/fried foods here, but if you’re willing to broaden your horizons a bit, you will discover they have a LOT more to offer than the standard Theme Park fare. Restaurant Marrakesh over in Epcot’s World Showcase offers traditional Moroccan fare – like beef, lamb, and chicken kebabs as well as Moroccan beer and specialty cocktails. A family favorite of ours is Boma – an African inspired buffet over at Animal Kingdom Lodge that offers mouth-watering salads, roasted meats, and a selection of delicious house made hummus. Epcot offers tons of different restaurants themed after their “World Showcase” countries – so if you want something new to please your palate, take a stroll through the countries and see what looks good! Oh, and FYI – most places that specialize in “exotic” can also make you sometime more plain or American if you request it, just in case your stomach isn’t ready for an adventure when you arrive at the restaurant!

Dress Up For Dinner: Most Disney restaurants don’t require that you dress up, but a few do have a dress code, and sometimes its nice to get dressed up and go to a nice restaurant – makes it feel like a real vacation celebration doesn’t it? So put on your best polo and khakis or summer dress and head over to The Yacht Club Resort where you can enjoy a delicious steak dinner at Yachtsman Steakhouse, or enjoy some delicious seafood at Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian Resort, or enjoy signature African cuisine while the animals roam around outside the restaurant on the savannah at Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Looking for something really fancy? Victoria and Albert’s is the spot for you – with their multiple prix fixe menus, fresh ingredients, wine pairings, and plenty of new dishes to try, it’s a great place to celebrate and enjoy a delicious meal! Something to note – men will be required to wear a jacket and pants here, and women are encouraged to wear cocktail/nice dresses, and flip flops and shorts are not allowed

Don’t Overlook Your Resort Dining: Many WDW vacationers don’t spend a ton of time at their WDW Resort – as they are busy checking out the Parks and exploring all that WDW has to offer – which is all well and good, but sometimes grabbing food at the Parks is neither quick nor easy, and the truth is you may be better off heading back to your own Resort where you can relax, take it slow, and grab some amazing food. Many times I find the food at my Resort’s Counter Service dining spot is better than a lot of Counter Service options at the Parks, and generally it isn’t as crowded and there are almost always places to sit – sounds like paradise right?

Ok – so now you have some ideas about what you might be able to change when it comes to your Disney Dining routine, and hopefully you will be able to put those ideas into action next time you visit WDW!

Magicbands and Fastpass+ Available For Offsite Guests next week!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

As early as March 31, 2014 Disney World off site guests will be able to get your very own Magicband and access Disney’s Fastpass+. You will have to buy the Magicbands but you are not required to have them for the use of Fastpass+, the RFID enabled ticket that you get can also give you access to Fastpass+.

Offsite guests will be able to make Fastpass+ reservations 30 days out.

Offsite guests will also have access to the My Disney Experience app and the website. You can also use the kiosks in the park but at least now you will have more options since you are not required to use the just the kiosks anymore.

Remember before you can use Fastpass+ you need to link your ticket on the website. After you do that you can make your Fastpass+ reservations.

Disney World resort guests still have a slight advantage over non-resort guests because they get to make their Fastpass+ reservations 60 days out.

If you need help linking your tickets or making Fastpass+ reservation remember Disneyworld.com has a chat feature and they are usually pretty helpful.

Are you glad this will finally be available? Do you mind paying for your Magic Band? Let us know in the comment box below.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Enter Disney Junior’s “My Magical First” Sweepstakes

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

Disney Junior is offering up a magical storybook vacation. There is nothing better than seeing Disney through the eyes of a child. Of course Disney Junior knows that, so they want to send you and your family on a magical vacation. Enter the My Magical First sweepstakes for a chance to win a 5-day, 4-night dream trip to Disney World for 4 people.

Here are the details:

To be eligible you have to be a U.S. resident and a member of Disney.com

You can enter now until 11:59 pm on April 20, 2014

Here is what you could win:

The Grand Prize is a 5-day, 4-night night trip for 4 people to Disney World in Orlando
Resort stay which is one standard room.
5 day Magic Your Way Tickets with Park Hopper Option
A $500 Disney Gift Card for Grand Prize Winner only
1 Disney’s Magical Celebration “in room” décor in the Walt Disney World Resort hotel room
1 Disney Character Meet and Greet with photo opportunity for Group
Choice of any Disney PhotoPass Service products, valued up to $300 in total fulfilled with a Disney Gift Card
VIP viewing for 1 Disney Theme Park parade or show for Group. ARV: $6,282.48

This entire package has a value of $6,282

Disclaimer: If the Grand Prize Winner’s residence is located more than 250 miles from the City, round-trip coach air transportation between a Sponsor-selected major metropolitan airport near the Grand Prize Winner’s residence and a Sponsor-selected airport in or near the City; but if the Grand Prize Winner’s residence is located two hundred fifty 250 miles or less from the City, round-trip coach air transportation will not be provided; if the Grand Prize Winner’s residence is located more than two hundred fifty 250 miles from the City, round-trip ground transfers between the Sponsor-selected airport in or near the City and Walt Disney World Resort; but if the Grand Prize Winner’s residence is located two hundred fifty 250 miles or less from the City, round-trip ground transfers will not be provided

This contest will be chosen by a random drawing: On or about April 28, 2014

Enter the contest here.

Good luck!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Giveaway for Florida Home and Garden Show and a special surprise!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

@MedicMayhew went to a event last night that showcased some amazing food from the Central Florida Home and Garden show. Enter to win two tickets to the show on 4/4 to 4/6 at the Orange County Convention Center! I am also throwing in a big surprise for the winner so make sure to enter and share the fun with friends! Big thanks to Central Florida Home and Garden Show, Barnies Coffee Kitchen and Edible Orlando for the tickets! A full review will be coming soon!!!

The show is one of the region’s most anticipated spring events, the Central Florida Home + Garden Show returns April 4-6 to the Orange County Convention Center’s North Concourse, Hall North B facing Universal Blvd. The three-day home improvement extravaganza is the premier place to find innovative products, new ideas, practical advice and great deals in remodeling, home improvement and gardening with hundreds of experts all under one roof. From windows and flooring to cabinets and landscaping, consumers can shop, compare and save on a wide variety of products and services to renew, refresh and restore their homes. Show hours are Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. MedicMayhew will be at the show on 4/6 so if you win maybe you can join up with him and explore the show together!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you are having issues entering the contest via raffelcopter try entering here.

New Details for Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

Disney Interactive along Harmonix Music Systems recently revealed some new details about the new “Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” video game.

Some the new details include multiplayer gameplay, and an all-new realm. Also some new music from some of your favorite artists.

The two-player multiplayer gameplay for “Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” is played cooperatively and as part of a friendly competition, allows players to collaborate and engage with the classic hits that they love in an entirely new way. By choosing unique remix paths and discovering musical interactions to create new melodies, beats, and more, “Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” gives players an unprecedented amount of freedom to be creative while having fun!

Check out the trailer:

Here are some the artists and songs that you will hear in the game:

David Bowie – “Ziggy Stardust”

Antonin Dvorak – “Symphony No. 9 from the New World”

Lorde – “Royals”

Nicki Minaj – “Super Bass”

White Stripes – “Seven Nation Army”

Disney and Harmonix also reveal an all-new interactive discovery realm, “The Hollow.” This mysterious forest environment comes to life as users perform songs and interact with the world to add light, color, and characters to the scene. From creating their own melody by sprouting musical mushrooms to guiding frolicking fairies through this woodland wonderland, players will be delighted by what they discover in “The Hollow”.

“Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” is a breakthrough musical motion video game inspired by Disney’s classic animated film “Fantasia,” and will be available for Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft and Kinect for Xbox 360 in 2014. Featuring over 30 tracks – including contemporary hits, classic rock, classical music, and more – “Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved” transports players to a breathtaking world where music and magic combine to transform extraordinary interactive landscapes in entirely new and creative ways.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

What’s New This Week at Universal Orlando – Hogwarts Express, Diagon Alley and More!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

Hogwarts Express Animation Fred Weasleytmb

New things are on the horizon at Universal Orlando Resort. Check back with us weekly for all the information on what’s new at Universal Orlando this week!

New! New Details about Hogwart’s Express Revealed: Two experiences will be available to passengers traveling on Hogwart’s Express, which literally takes guests on the journey between the currently open Hogsmeade (at Islands of Adventure) and the soon-to-open London/Diagon Alley (at Universal Studios Florida). One experience on the way to Hogsmeade, and a different experience on the way to Diagon Alley.

The Hogwarts Express experience combines powerful storytelling, live special effects, lifelike animation and state-of-the-art technology to take riders on the journey of a lifetime. Once seated in the cabin, guests will be able to look out their windows as an incredibly authentic and magical adventure unfolds before them. They’ll see Hagrid come alongside the train on his flying motorbike, Buckbeak the Hippogriff swoop gracefully over the black lake, the Weasley twins on brooms and up to their usual antics, the Knight Bus swerving through London traffic – and other special moments and surprises.

New! Original Zonko’s Joke Shop Closed Mar 11: Universal announced this shop would close as part of the changes with the future opening of Diagon Alley. The new Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes in Diagon Alley will set basically the same types of products formerly found in Zonko’s when Diagon Alley opens.

New! Velvet Sessions featuring The Psychedelic Furs March 27, 2014: Velvet Bar hosts the city’s only rock ‘n’ roll cocktail party on the last Thursday of the month. Admission is $29 on-line or $35 at the door and include FREE specialty drinks & finger foods and warm-up tunes from 6:30-8:30pm, plus FREE valet parking. Cash bars and live band from 8:00pm onward. Each “session” combines creative cocktails with live music from some of the hottest rock bands.

Reminder! Mardi Gras Extended to June 7th for Rescheduled Robin Thicke Concert: The excitement of Mardi Gras now continues through June 7 at Universal Orlando Resort, with a live performance by GRAMMY nominated musician Robin Thicke (performance rescheduled from Feb 22). Along with the live concert, guests can experience the spirit of the legendary Bayou bash during the dazzling Mardi Gras parade, featuring 12 vibrant floats, including three new additions celebrating Jules Verne’s novel, “Around the World in 80 Days.” Guests can also visit Universal Studios Florida’s very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy delectable Cajun cuisine and see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street.

Reminder: Impact Wrestling Taping Select Dates March through May: Guests can catch IMPACT WRESTLING live event tapings at Universal Orlando on March 13-15, April 10-12 & 24-29, and May 7-10. IMPACT WRESTLING events are non-ticketed and seating is based on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note: Taping times are subject to change, so for the most up-to-date information please call 407-224-6000.

Closures and Refurbishments

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

None Scheduled

Universal Studios

Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular: 3/16, 3/18, 3/21, 3/22, 3/28 & 3/29 no show scheduled

For help planning your Universal Orlando vacation contact Gretchen, an agent with Destinations in Florida, the preferred Earmark agency of Chip & Co at [email protected].

Brand New Transformers Series in Production for The Hub Network

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

March 26, 2014

More news from our friends over at Hasbro that is going to thrill my son.

THE HUB NETWORK ANNOUNCES BRAND NEW TRANSFORMERS SERIES IN PRODUCTION NOW FOR 2015

Will Friedle, Darren Criss and Constance Zimmer to Star in New Animated Series by Hasbro Studios

A new TRANSFORMERS brand is set debut in early 2015.

“Taking place years after the battle between Autobots and Decepticons in “Transformers Prime,” this all new series centers around our hero Bumblebee stepping up to lead a brand new team of Autobots. The show features an all-star cast with Will Friedle (“Boy Meets World”) returning as Bumblebee, along with Darren Criss (“Glee”), Constance Zimmer (“House of Cards”) and Ted McGinley (“Married with Children”). Blending 3D characters with hand-painted environments, the series mixes action-packed adventure with lots of comedy, making it a rip-roaring experience for kids and families to enjoy together.

The Hub Network, champions of family fun and the only network dedicated to providing kids and their families entertainment they can watch together, announced today that a new animated series is currently in production for the globally renowned TRANSFORMERS brand. Set to debut in early 2015, the new action-packed series is being produced by Hasbro Studios, the production and distribution division of Hasbro, Inc., and is executive produced by Jeff Kline (“Transformers Prime,” “G.I. Joe Renegades”).”

TRANSFORMERS celebrates it’s 30th Anniversary this year, and I am excited that they are rolling out an all new series. The Hub Network will be announcing special events late this year to celebrate the success of this franchise.

About the Hub Network

The HubNetwork is a multi-platform joint venture between Discovery Communications (NASDAQ: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) and Hasbro Inc., (NASDAQ: HAS) that champions family fun by providing relatable, funny, family friendly entertainment experiences that children and their parents can enjoy together. The cable and satellite television network features original programming as well as content from Hasbro’s rich portfolio of entertainment and educational properties built during the past 90 years and from leading third-party producers worldwide. The Hub Network’s lineup includes animated and live-action series, as well as specials, game shows, and family-favorite movies. The network extends its content through a robust and engaging online presence at HubNetwork.com. The Hub Network rebranded from Discovery Kids on October 10, 2010, and is available in nearly 71 million U.S. households. The Hub Network logo and name are trademarks of Hub Television Networks, LLC. All rights reserved.

To find the channel in your area, please visit HubNetwork.com and check the channel locator at the top of the page.

Visit the Hub Network on Social Media:

Facebook at Facebook.com/HubTVNetwork

Twitter @HubTVNetwork

Instagram @HubTVNetwork

YouTube at YouTube.com/HubTVNetwork

Note: For artwork, visit press.discovery.com/us/Hub/

About Hasbro Studios

Hasbro Studios is the Los Angeles-based entertainment division of Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS). The studio is responsible for entertainment brand-driven storytelling for the company across television, film, commercial productions and short-form. It develops, produces and distributes TV shows based on Hasbro’s world class brands, including TRANSFORMERS, MY LITTLE PONY, LITTLEST PET SHOP and FAMILY GAME NIGHT. Many of these shows air on Hub Network, a U.S. television network for kids and their families, that is a joint venture between Hasbro and Discovery Communications (NASDAQ: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK). Hasbro Studios shows can also be seen on networks in more than 180 countries globally. Since its formation in 2009, the studio has received seven Daytime Emmy wins and 16 nominations. On the film side, the studio is developing and producing a number of features based on Hasbro’s brands, including TRANSFORMERS 4 (Paramount), G.I. JOE 3 (Paramount) and Ouiji (Universal Pictures). The studio team also oversees the production of commercials that feature Hasbro’s brands as well production of short-form content that can be seen on all of the major digital and social media platforms globally.

— Hub Network —

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