New The Haunted Mansion Backpack For A Spooktacular Style!
For those who dare to be different, Disney Springs has just unveiled a must-have accessory: The Haunted Mansion Backpack. This stylish and functional backpack is perfect for carrying all your essentials while adding a touch of spooky charm to your look.
Inspired by the iconic wallpaper found inside the Haunted Mansion attraction, the backpack features a repeating pattern of ghosts, tombstones, and other eerie details. The design is finished with a handsome gargoyle, adding a touch of gothic flair.
The backpack is not only stylish but also practical. It features adjustable straps for a comfortable fit, a top carry handle for easy carrying, and plenty of room to store your belongings. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or a theme park, this backpack has you covered.
The Haunted Mansion Backpack is the perfect way to show your love for the Haunted Mansion attraction. It’s a must-have for any Disney fan, and it’s sure to be a conversation starter wherever you go.
The Haunted Mansion Collection from Loungefly Is Spooky and Stylish!
Get ready to hauntingly chic with Loungefly’s newest The Haunted Mansion collection inspired by the iconic Disney attraction. This spooky assortment features a variety of must-have accessories and apparel that will have you feeling like a ghost host in style.
This crossbody bag pays homage to the Haunted Mansion’s iconic title plaque. With a detachable coin bag shaped like a grandfather clock and glow-in-the-dark details, this bag is perfect for any Disney parks fan.
This mini backpack features a gargoyle staring down from the front zipper pocket. With glow and light-up features, this accessory is a must-have for any Disney fan.
This hoodie is inspired by the Haunted Mansion’s infamous landscape. With hidden details like hitchhiking ghosts, singing busts, and other beloved characters, this glow-in-the-dark hoodie is perfect for staying warm and stylish.
This tee shirt features an all-over print inspired by the Haunted Mansion. With hidden details like hitchhiking ghosts, Madame Leota, and other ghostly residents, this glow-in-the-dark tee is a must-have for any Disney fan.
Whether you’re a die-hard Haunted Mansion fan or simply looking for a unique and stylish accessory, Loungefly’s new collection has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on these must-have items!
Shimmering Skies Illumineers Trove is a Must-Have for Disney Lorcana Enthusiasts
The anticipation surrounding each new Disney Lorcana expansion is palpable, and with the release of the Shimmering Skies set, Ravensburger has once again captivated both players and collectors alike. The Shimmering Skies Illumineers Trove is a shining example of why Disney Lorcana remains the hottest trading card game on the market. Packed with an array of exciting items, this trove is not only a perfect entry point for newcomers but also a treasure chest of delights for seasoned veterans.
When you first lay eyes on the Shimmering Skies Illumineers Trove, you can’t help but be impressed by the presentation. The decorative storage box is beautifully designed, featuring intricate artwork that captures the essence of the Shimmering Skies expansion. The box isn’t just a practical storage solution; it’s a piece of art in its own right, making it a worthy addition to any collector’s shelf. The box is sturdy, well-constructed, and has ample space to house your expanding collection of Disney Lorcana cards.
The included damage counter dice is another standout feature, offering functionality and flair. These dice are well-crafted, with a satisfying weight and feel that adds to the immersive experience of gameplay. They come in a stunning design that complements the overall aesthetic of the Shimmering Skies set, ensuring that every aspect of your game is visually cohesive.
Inside the trove, you’ll also find six card dividers, each adorned with artwork that’s as enchanting as the cards themselves. These dividers are essential for organizing your collection, helping you keep track of your favorite cards, strategies, and decks. Whether you’re a meticulous organizer or a more casual player, the dividers make it easy to maintain order within your storage box, ensuring that your collection is both accessible and protected.
Beyond the allure of collecting, the Shimmering Skies expansion brings a wealth of new gameplay opportunities. The infusion of new cards into the meta has made the game feel fresh and exciting once more. Strategies that may have felt stale or overplayed are revitalized with the introduction of new characters, spells, and mechanics. This constant evolution of the game is one of its greatest strengths, ensuring that Disney Lorcana remains engaging and challenging for players of all skill levels.
What’s particularly impressive about Disney Lorcana is its accessibility. Despite the depth and complexity that the new cards introduce, the game remains incredibly easy to learn. This makes the Shimmering Skies Illumineers Trove an ideal entry point for new players. The rules are straightforward, and the game’s mechanics are intuitive, allowing newcomers to jump right in without feeling overwhelmed. At the same time, the strategic depth ensures that more experienced players will find plenty of challenges as they explore new strategies and combinations. If you’re really green you can always check out the brand new Lorcana Gateway which is a step by step instructional game; perfect for taking your first steps into the trading card game community.
While the Shimmering Skies Illumineers Trove is a fantastic product in its own right, what truly sets Disney Lorcana apart is the sense of community it fosters. The game is designed to be played not just in competitive settings but also in more casual environments, like your local game store or even around the dining room table with family and friends. This versatility is one of the reasons why Disney Lorcana has such broad appeal.
For those who are competitively inclined, the active challenge circuit offers plenty of opportunities to test your skills against the best players in the world. These events are thrilling, high-stakes competitions where strategy and skill are put to the ultimate test. However, the game’s true heart lies in the more relaxed, social settings where players of all ages can come together to share in the magic of Disney.
The Shimmering Skies Illumineers Trove is a product that embodies this spirit of community. It provides everything you need to start or expand your journey in the world of Disney Lorcana, making it a perfect gift for yourself or a loved one. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, this trove offers a complete and satisfying experience that is sure to bring hours of enjoyment. Shimmering Skies continues to captivate the Lorcana community and this new trove is once again the must have item for the latest expansion. You can use the Store Locator online or head to major retailers like Walmart and Target to purchase the latest expansion to Ravensburger’s Disney Lorcana.
TRON Lightcycle/Run Shifts to Standby on September 9
The virtual queue for TRON Lightcycle/Run is about to de-rez! Starting September 9, 2024, riders can access the Grid through a traditional standby line, putting an end to the virtual queue system that has been in place since the attraction opened on April 4, 2023. No more racing the clock at 7:00 AM or 1:00 PM to secure your spot in the digital queue—soon, you’ll be able to just download yourself into the standby line like a true user.
For those looking to get in on one last virtual ride, you have until September 8 to secure your spot. The 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM virtual queue times will still be available, with a special 6:00 PM option for guests enjoying extended evening hours at Disney Deluxe Resorts and select hotels. But once September 9 hits, the Grid opens to all, no reservations required.
As TRON switches to standby, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will be the only attraction at Magic Kingdom with a virtual queue, while over at EPCOT, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will continue to use one as well.
Disney Extends Annual Passholder Discount at Character Warehouse by 2 Weeks
Hot dog! Disney has announced that the 20% discount for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders at Disney’s Character Warehouse has been extended through September 14, 2024! Originally scheduled for the month of August, this popular discount allows Passholders to enjoy savings on a wide range of Disney merchandise.
Disney’s Character Warehouse is a series of outlet stores offering marked-down Walt Disney World merchandise. There are three locations in the Orlando area:
All three locations are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, except for the Sunrise location, which closes at 8 p.m. on Sundays.
On Thursdays through September 14, the two Orlando locations will open exclusively to Passholders at 9 a.m. This provides an early shopping opportunity for Annual Passholders to snag the best deals.
To take advantage of the discount, Passholders must present their valid Annual Pass in the “Tickets and Passes” section of their My Disney Experience app and a valid government-issued photo ID. Run on over to your nearest Disney Character Warehouse locations and start saving on all the magical items straight from the parks!
Foodies, it’s time to mark your calendars! The 15th annual Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic is returning this November, and it’s set to be the biggest and tastiest yet. Taking place on Friday, Nov. 15, and Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, this year’s event promises more flavors, more fun, and even more time to savor it all—thanks to the longest hours in the event’s history!
Running from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. both nights, the Food & Wine Classic will offer an incredible 45 dishes (the most ever) and 170+ beverage options, all served across 85 booths along the scenic resort causeway. Whether you’re a seasoned Food & Wine Classic fan or a first-timer, this year’s celebration has something for every palate, from fresh new dishes to fan-favorite classics.
New and Noteworthy Tastes This year’s menu is a food lover’s dream, with global flavors to satisfy your cravings. Dive into new dishes like the Baja Style Fish Taco from Rosa Mexicano, the Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib from Il Mulino, or the Slow Roasted Pernil from the For the Love of Florida specialty area. Plus, indulge your sweet tooth with all-new desserts like Caramel Banana Crème Brûlée or Nougat Rum Dark Chocolate Mousse.
And for those who love the classics, don’t worry—the event’s signature favorites are making a delicious return! Think Roasted Linz Heritage Black Angus Beef Tenderloin from Shula’s Steak House, Dragon Rolls from Kimonos, and Butter Poached Bay Scallops from the For the Love of Florida area.
Get More for Less To celebrate the 15th year of food and fun, guests can save 15% with a special two-night ticket bundle, giving you a chance to experience all the culinary delights offered across both nights. Each evening will feature different menus, so this bundle is your golden ticket to tasting it all!
Learn and Sip Looking to expand your food and drink knowledge? This year’s event features three educational seminars on Saturday, Nov. 16, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. New for 2024 is the Beer Here! seminar, a deep dive into Florida’s craft beer scene, and Salud! A Journey Through Spain, a flavorful look at Spanish winemaking. The ever-popular Craft Cocktails seminar returns to teach you how to shake up the perfect drink at home. But hurry—seating is limited, and seminars require separate tickets!
What You Need to Know 📅 When: Friday, Nov. 15 & Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 ⏰ Time: 5:30-9:30 p.m. 📍 Where: Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort 🎟️ Tickets: Available now at FoodAndWineClassic.com
With its longest hours and most dishes yet, the 15th annual Food & Wine Classic is shaping up to be the most delicious celebration in event history. Grab your tickets, bring your appetite, and get ready to wine and dine like never before!
It’s only September, and even though it’s not quite sweater weather, Disney fans are already dreaming of sugarplums and snowflakes on Main Street, U.S.A.! ❄️ November 8, the first night of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party has officially sold out! If you haven’t snagged your tickets yet, don’t worry—there are still plenty of party nights left to join in the festive fun, but they’re going fast!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is packed with holiday magic that’ll make even the grumpiest villain smile from ear to ear. From Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks lighting up the sky to the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade with dancing gingerbread men, marching toy soldiers, and even Santa Claus himself, this party is the ultimate way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom. 🎅✨
While the first night may be sold out, you can still grab your tickets for these merry dates:
With ticket prices ranging from $169 to $219 (plus tax), Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can jingle all the way to a $10 discount on select nights! But don’t wait too long—these tickets will disappear faster than Frosty on a sunny day! ☃️
So, whether you’re dreaming of dancing at the Disney Junior Jingle Jam, enjoying the snowfall on Main Street, or indulging in all the free cookies your heart desires, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is the perfect way to kick off your holiday season Disney-style! Grab your tickets before they’re all wrapped up for good! 🎁
As we creep into September, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has officially spooked its way into sold-out territory for the entire month! 🎃 If you’ve been dreaming of trick-or-treating your way through Magic Kingdom in September, you’ll need to wish upon a star for October instead!
But don’t worry, foolish mortals! 🕸️ There are still 11 hauntingly fun dates left in October: 1, 3, 4, 6, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, and 27. However, beware—several October dates have already vanished into the night, including October 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 29, and the ultimate fright night on October 31! 👻
With brand-new tricks up its sleeve for 2024, this year’s Halloween Party is packed with boo-tiful surprises! Mickey and Minnie are ready to greet you in their neon spiderweb attire, while more Disney villains than ever are lurking around the park. For the first time ever, you can even spot Bruno (yes, we talk about him!) alongside Mirabel in Fairytale Garden.
From the spellbinding Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular to the spooky sights of the Boo-to-You Parade, this party is one wicked celebration you won’t want to miss! 🕷️ So grab your broomsticks (or your tickets!) before those remaining October dates disappear faster than the Hitchhiking Ghosts! 🎟️
Disney Cruise Line has just announced the much-anticipated inaugural itineraries for their newest ship, the Disney Destiny. The ship’s Maiden Voyage is set for November 20, 2025, marking the beginning of a year-round schedule of magical cruises from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The inaugural voyage will be a special 4-night Bahamian cruise, featuring stops at both of Disney Cruise Line’s private island destinations, Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay.
Following its Maiden Voyage, the Disney Destiny will offer a variety of 4- and 5-night sailings to The Bahamas and the Western Caribbean. With these routes, guests can look forward to visits to one or both of the island paradises, experiencing the best of Disney’s tropical getaways.
For those eager to be among the first to sail on the Disney Destiny, booking for the inaugural season opens to the general public on September 12, 2024. However, Disney Castaway Club members and other select groups will have early access to secure their spots, starting on September 6, 2024. The tiered booking system begins with Pearl Castaway Club members, followed by Platinum, Gold, and Silver Castaway Club members, as well as other Disney groups like Disney Vacation Club members.
The Disney Destiny promises an unforgettable experience both at sea and on land, with immersive dining inspired by iconic Disney stories. Guests can savor a musical dining experience at Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King, where the journey of Simba is celebrated through live performances and African-inspired dishes. For Marvel fans, Worlds of Marvel offers a superhero-themed dining adventure complete with a special appearance by Spider-Man. Guests can also step back in time with a refined dining experience at 1923, which pays homage to Disney’s early history.
Entertainment aboard the Disney Destiny is equally spectacular. The ship will feature exclusive live shows, including a grand stage production of Disney Hercules, which brings the classic tale of the young hero to life with a mix of comedy, music, and special effects. Frozen fans will enjoy Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, and families can dive into the fun with the all-new AquaMouse water coaster.
With its unique blend of Disney magic, legendary storytelling, and luxurious cruising, the Disney Destiny is sure to make waves when it sets sail in 2025.
Original Cast from Disney’s Hoop Dee Doo Return to Celebrate 50th Anniversary
The iconic original cast of Walt Disney World’s Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue will reunite to commemorate the show’s 50th anniversary. Six original professional cast members and a selection of performers from the past 50 years of the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue will come together for this special occasion.
On LinkedIn, site Director Gary Goddard posted… “THE HOOP DEE DOO WESTERN DINNER MUSICAL REVUE had its 2nd Grand Opening on September 5, 1974.
This was the debut of the first professional cast, taking over from the original WDW College Musical Workshop Cast (which premiered the show on June 30 of the same year).
“…This September 4th, six of the original cast members of that 2nd Grand Opening have gathered some cast members from the past 50 years to Celebrate the Current Cast of the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue. Susan Marshall, Vicki Harvey Stephens, Wesley Karen Williams, Pammie O’Bannon, Ralph Petillo and Tony Christopher representing the six “original pro” cast members along with Patty Kalber, Mike Strickland, Dennis Underwood, Muffet Baker King, Mark King, Russel Fox and more past cast members are all coming to pay tribute to the show and cast that is keeping Hoop Dee Doo alive and kicking for future generations.
“Those of us who performed the show know what kind of energy and professional commitment it takes to “create magic and bring joy to give each guest memories that will last a lifetime”. We are coming to relive and remember the joy we all felt performing and to realize just how much The HOOP DEE DOO MUSICAL REVUE helped shape our professional careers and lives. We applaud the talented young performers, writers, and directors who created the Longest Running Musical Revue in history,” says “original pro” member, Ralph Petillo.
This 50th anniversary celebration takes place today, September 4, 2024! Will you be there to experience it?
First Wave of Disney Vacation Club Disney Destiny Sailings Announced
Disney Cruise Line has unveiled exciting details about their exclusive “First Wave” sailing on the Disney Destiny for Disney Vacation Club members. Be one of the first to embark on this pioneering voyage aboard Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship!
Prepare to be enchanted as you delve into a world where magic and mischief collide. Immerse yourself in the thrilling narratives of courageous heroes and mischievous villains inspired by iconic park attractions and beloved Disney, Pixar, and Marvel films.
This captivating voyage will depart from Fort Lauderdale on November 28, 2025, shortly after the ship’s inaugural sailing on November 20. Enjoy a 5-night adventure through the enchanting Bahamas. Take a look at the itinerary:
November 28: Fort Lauderdale, FL
November 29: At Sea
November 30: Disney Lookout Cay
December 1: At Sea
December 2: Disney Castaway Cay
December 3: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Bookings for this DVC-exclusive sailing will open on October 23, 2024, at 8:00 AM Eastern Time. DVC members can begin booking other Disney Destiny sailings on September 10.
Onboard Fun
Storied Designs: Experience heroic and villainous stories at every turn, including in each stateroom—where Disney adventures surround you as you slumber.
Legendary Dining: Feel like you’re dining on the savanna at a uniquely themed restaurant where you’ll be enchanted by award-winning music from the timeless classic film The Lion King.
Daring Adult Escapes: Relax and unwind in all-new spaces designed for adults and inspired by some of the most dynamic Disney heroes and villains. Plus enjoy fan-favorite, fine-dining restaurants like Palo Steakhouse and upper-deck relaxation at the Quiet Cove Pool.
Renowned Entertainment: Revel in the grandeur of Broadway-style shows, including returning fan favorites, Frozen and Disney Seas the Adventure.
Imaginative Kids Clubs: Exclusive fun, designed specifically for young Disney heroes—tweens and teens—to become part of some of their favorite Disney stories.
Will you be sailing on this exclusive Disney Vacation Club cruise?
Disney Shares a Behind the Scenes Look at the Electrical Water Pageant
The Electrical Water Pageant, with its enchanting lights, lively music, and captivating characters, has been a beloved tradition at Walt Disney World since its very inception. Since 1971, this unique, complimentary nighttime show has captivated Disney enthusiasts from around the world.
Whether you’re experiencing the Electrical Water Pageant for the first time along the shores of Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon or sharing your favorite moments with friends while riding the monorail, we invite you on a backstage tour of this spectacular show’s sparkling history. We’ll also reveal the best spots to witness this unforgettable experience.
Early Concepts of Disney’s Electrical Water Pageant
While dreaming up ideas for Disney World, the project team wanted to create something that could entertain hotel guests after Magic Kingdom closed for the night.
Disney Legend and Imagineer Marc Davis was tapped for the task. You may be familiar with some of his other work. He created character concepts for iconic Disney attractions like the Enchanted Tiki Room, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion and more.
Some of his early concept art for the Electrical Water Pageant shows the parade almost had a Fantasia (1940) theme (pictured above) but later evolved into a show that could tell many stories in glowing, glittering animation on the water – and Disney Legend Bob Jani helped bring this concept to life.
“The Walt Disney World property was so vast that we had no horizon lights, or any city lights, which meant we had perfect black, and I just started fantasizing about what we could do with that,” Bob said.
The sky was the limit, and what they created was a stunning show where characters appeared out of the night as if by magic. It continues to shine more than 50 years later.
Peeking behind the pixie dust, the magic actually happens on two 456-foot barges made up of 25-foot-tall screens. Each panel is covered in twinkling lights that blink on and off to bring parade characters and stunning scenery to life.
Iconic Disney Music for an Iconic Disney Parade
Complementing its stunning visuals, the Electrical Water Pageant was the very first show where guests heard the “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sounds” of “Baroque Hoedown.”
Recorded on synthesizers in 1967 by electronic music composers Gershon Kingsley and Jean-Jacques Perrey, “Baroque Hoedown” went on to become legendary at Disney.
I know what you’re thinking, and yes, that’s the very same song that was used in the Main Street Electrical Parade at Disneyland, Disney World and Disneyland Paris!
The Legacy of the Electrical Water Pageant at Disney Parks
The Electrical Water Pageant officially debuted on October 24, 1971. Less than 24 hours later, Roy O. Disney delivered Disney World’s official dedication at Magic Kingdom. Guests sat in rows of chairs along the beach of the resort after, oohing and aahing as the pageant floated by.
The show was incredibly popular. So much so that when new nighttime entertainment was being designed for Disneyland, Bob Jani pitched an idea for how they could bring the Electrical Water Pageant to shore on the West Coast.
So, in 1972, the Main Street Electrical Parade stepped off for the first time at Disneyland with original floats that used twinkling lights on flat panels just like the Electrical Water Pageant.
It also used the same music: Perrey and Kingsley’s “Baroque Hoedown.” The toe-tapping track may not have reached its now-legendary status if not for the parade’s aquatic forerunner at Disney World.
From 1971 to Now
Since its debut, the show has been updated with new music and characters. Did you know that long before Ariel was designed for “The Little Mermaid,” there was a trio of red-headed mermaids in the show?
The pageant has also featured special, limited-time finale scenes over the years that highlight milestone anniversaries at Walt Disney World – like during our 50th Anniversary celebration or the Tencennial!
While the show has had many iterations over the past 53 years, the Electrical Water Pageant continues to be one of the most beloved complimentary nighttime entertainment offerings at Disney World.
Today, a small but mighty crew of five Disney Transportation cast members drive the twinkling barges across Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake every night. Many have been working at the Electrical Water Pageant for decades and feel great pride in bringing this vacation staple to life each night.
Where to Watch the Electrical Water Pageant
Some of the most tenured cast members who pilot the pageant shared their insider knowledge on the very best places to watch the show. Here’s what they recommend:
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – The patio at Narcoossee’s and the resort boat dock
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – The resort boat dock
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – The resort boat dock and beach
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Geyser Point Bar & Grill
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground – The resort boat dock and beach
Whether you’re adding the Electrical Water Pageant to your vacation must-dos for the first time, or your family has been watching it for decades, we hope you enjoy the spectacle just a little bit more now that you know its history!
