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Join the Chip and Co Rewards Program and Win Free Giftcards!

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Chip
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Join the Chip and Co Rewards Program and Win Free Giftcards!

You might notice this little Green Button on the side of the page that says Rewards. If you have been brave enough to click on it then you might notice a slide out box that says something about winning Gift Cards.

That’s right not only do we share the best in Disney Park News, Planning Tips, Giveaways and More! You now have a chance to win actual giftcards by joining the Chip and Co Rewards Program!

Here’s how…

All you have to do is Like, Comment, and Share your favorite articles from Chip and Co through Google, Facebook and Twitter and earn points that you can put towards free giftcards at retailers like Amazon, Pappa Johns and More!

Just follow these instructions:

Join the Chip and Co Rewards Program and Win Free Giftcards!

At the top or bottom of any article you will see Share Boxes for Facebook, Twitter, Google + and Many More. Just click one or all of those and share them with your friends.

Join the Chip and Co Rewards Program and Win Free Giftcards!

After your Like, Comment or Share you should see a little pop up like the one pictured above. You are now on your way to getting a free Giftcard from Chip and Co! It is just that easy. (Some signup may be required)

You are free to do this as many times as you like!

So scour the Chip and Co site and check out and share articles you might have missed and win free swag just for doing it!

Also be sure to watch out for special giveaways we will be hosting through our Rewards Program!!

Thanks for being a fan of Chip and Co!

Update – Commenting on Disqus still has a few bugs. For now if you just want to share Chip and Co on Facebook & Twitter you will earn points the fastest! Also for those using Internet Explorer you will not see the rewards program. The Developers are working on all these issues and should have a fix soon!

Related articles
  • Chip & Company Week in Review, February 6, 2012 (chipandco.com)
Join the Chip and Co Rewards Program and Win Free Giftcards!

Disney World Refurbishment Schedule March 2012

By
Chip
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Disney World Refurbishment Schedule March 2012

Here is the Refurb and Closure Schedule for Walt Disney World for March 2012 and beyond. Refurbishment/closure information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available at the Disney World Website.

Current

  • Jamaica Village Pool (Caribbean Beach Resort) closed through 2/17/12. The feature pool and other leisure pools in each village will remain open.
  • Pool slide (Contemporary Resort) closed through 2/17/12. The pool will remain open.
  • Meadow Feature Pool Slide (Ft. Wilderness Resort & Campground) closed through 3/2/12 for refurbishment. The Meadow Feature Pool will remain open.
  • Beach Pool Slide (Grand Floridian Resort) closed through 3/2/12 for refurbishment. The Beach Pool will remain open.
  • Studio Backlot Tour (Hollywood Studios) closed through 3/10/12 for refurbishment.
  • Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure (Hollywood Studios) closed through 3/11/12 for refurbishment.
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Magic Kingdom) closed through 3/12/12 for refurbishment and move to Storybook Circus.
  • Piano Pool (All-Star Music Resort) closed through 3/16/12 for refurbishment. The Calypso Pool will remain open.
  • Typhoon Lagoon closed through 3/17/12 for annual refurbishment.
  • Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (Magic Kingdom) closed through 3/27/12 for refurbishment.
  • Nanea Volcano Pool Slide (Polynesian Resort) closed through 4/1/12 for refurbishment. The pool will remain open.
  • Tutto Italia Restaurant (Epcot) closed through 4/30/12 for refurbishment.
  • Liberty Square Riverboat (Magic Kingdom) closed through 5/20/12 for refurbishment.
  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom) closed through 5/27/12 for refurbishment.
  • Innoventions: House of Innoventions exhibit closed through May 2012 for refurbishment.
  • Grand Floridian Spa (Grand Floridian Resort) closed through mid-2013 due to construction at the resort. The Grand Floridian Fitness Center will remain open and guests may use The Spa at Saratoga Springs Resort.

Upcoming

  • Bay Cove Pool Slide (Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary Resort) closed 2/20/12-3/16/12 for refurbishment. The pool will remain open.
  • Magic Carpets of Aladdin (Magic Kingdom) closed 2/26/12-3/11/12 for refurbishment.
  • Magnolia Bend Leisure Pool (Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) closed 2/27/12-3/1/12 for refurbishment. The feature pool and all other leisure pools will remain open.
  • Ranchos Leisure Pool (Coronado Springs Resort) closed 3/11/12-3/14/12 for refurbishment.
  • Boardwalk Inn leisure pool closed 3/19/12-3/22/12 for refurbishment. The feature pool and villas leisure pools will remain open.
  • Test Track (Epcot) closed April 2012-September 2012 for transformation to the Chevrolet Design Center.
  • Liberty Square Riverboat (Magic Kingdom) closed 4/16/12-5/20/12 for refurbishment.
  • Lights! Motors! Action! Extreme Stunt Show (Hollywood Studios) closed 4/29/12-5/2/12 for refurbishment.
  • Cape May Cafe (Yacht & Beach Club Resorts) closed 7/9/12-8/3/12 for refurbishment.

Source Mousesavers Newsletter

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Disney World Refurbishment Schedule March 2012

Disney Publishing Announces First Printing for Final Book in Eoin Colfer’s Best-Selling Artemis Fowl Series

By
Chip
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Disney Publishing Announces First Printing for Final Book in Eoin Colfer’s Best-Selling Artemis Fowl Series

Disney Publishing  announced today a one-million first printing of The Last Guardian, the eighth and final book in the best-selling Artemis Fowl series by Eoin Colfer. The Last Guardian releases simultaneously in hardcover and as an eBook from Disney Publishing’s Disney-Hyperion imprint, and as an audio version through Listening Library on July 10, 2012. More than 13 million Artemis Fowl books are currently in print in the US. The books have been translated into 44 languages.

“Artemis Fowl has been like an imaginary son to me for more than a decade,” said Eoin Colfer. “I was determined to finish the series with an adventure that will leave fans happily exhausted.”

“Eoin has written a brilliant finale, full to the brim with the ingenious plot twists, heart-stopping action, and sly humor that his fans expect,” said Stephanie Lurie, Editorial Director, Disney-Hyperion. “Artemis definitely goes out with a bang.”

In The Last Guardian, Artemis Fowl’s arch rival Opal Koboi is wreaking havoc yet again. The evil pixie has somehow reanimated dead fairy warriors who were buried on the grounds of Fowl Manor. Their spirits have possessed Artemis’s little brothers, Butler’s sister, Juliet, and assorted forest animals. Artemis and Holly must outwit all of them and defeat Opal before the world is destroyed in this thrilling finale to the blockbuster series. The cover of The Last Guardian and an excerpt of the first chapter are available online at ArtemisFowl.com

In support of the release of The Last Guardian, Colfer will embark on a multicity US tour and take to the stage—live, in bookstores and libraries—to bring the entire Artemis Fowl series to life for fans. Eoin will cast a few lucky volunteers in each location to participate in the theatrical performance. Video blogs from every tour venue will be featured online at ArtemisFowl.com.

Eoin Colfer is the New York Times best-selling author of the Artemis Fowl series; Airman; Half Moon Investigations; The Supernaturalist; Eoin Colfer’s Legend of… books; The Wish List; Benny and Omar; and Benny and Babe. He is currently hard at work on a new time travel adventure series called WARP. The first book will be published in 2013. Eoin lives in Ireland with his wife and two sons.

Disney Publishing Announces First Printing for Final Book in Eoin Colfer’s Best-Selling Artemis Fowl Series

Guests Celebrating One More Disney Day at Disneyland Could Receive Limited Edition Ear Hats

By
Chip
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Disney Parks Blog Author Erin Glover Wears her One More Disney Day Limited-Edition Ear Hat

Big news for those planning to spend One More Disney Day at Disneyland park on February 29! Guests entering the park when it opens at 6 a.m. will receive a limited-edition ear hat commemorating the event, while supplies last. Ear hats are limited to a supply of 2,000 for guests who enter through the designated turnstiles when Disneyland park opens at 6 a.m. on February 29.

Here are some things you should know if you are planning on attending One more Disney Day at Disneyland when it opens at 6 a.m. on February 29:

  • Guests may begin lining up no earlier than 10 p.m. on Tuesday, February 28.
  • Guests planning to line up before Disneyland park opens must park in the Pumbaa Parking Lot on Disney Way between 10 p.m. on Tuesday, February 28 and 6 a.m. on February 29. Please note that the Pumbaa Lot will not begin to offer shuttle service to the East Esplanade until 6 a.m. on February 29. Click here for a map of Disneyland Resort parking areas.
  • Restrooms will be available for guests who line up before Disneyland park opens.
  • A special ticket booth will be available prior to Disneyland park opening for guests needing to purchase park admission for February 29. Valid park admission is required in order to enter Disneyland park and to receive the commemorative ear hat.
  • Commemorative ear hats will be distributed, while supplies last, to guests who enter through the designated turnstiles beginning at 6 a.m. on February 29, when Disneyland park officially opens. Limit one ear hat per person, and you must be present at the time of distribution.
  • Please remember that being in line and entering the park does not guarantee that you will receive a commemorative ear hat. Ear hats are limited to a supply of 2,000 for guests who enter through the designated turnstiles when Disneyland park opens at 6 a.m. on February 29.
  • Be sure to check the list of items that are not permitted inside Disneyland park as you plan what you will bring with you that day. Admission to the park is subject to capacity restrictions.
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Guests Celebrating One More Disney Day at Disneyland Could Receive Limited Edition Ear Hats

Coming to Disney in March/April 2012

By
Chip
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Coming to Disney in March/April 2012
The Flower Power concert series returns to Epcot starting March 9th during the 19th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

Among millions of beautiful blooms, gorgeous garden walks and dozens of whimsical topiaries, you may just hear the sounds of some of the greatest pop, rock and R&B hits from the grooviest decades. During the 19th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival which runs from March 7 to May 20, guests will have the chance to hear music from artists such as Davy Jones and Jose Feliciano at the Flower Power concert series.

With a different artist every weekend during the festival, this unforgettable live music show will take you back in time with tunes from the 1960s and 70s. Don’t miss two new acts—Chuck Negron formerly of Three Dog Night and The Orchestra featuring former members of ELO and ELO Part II—perform some of their greatest songs.

Performances are at America Gardens Theatre and are included with Epcot admission. Show times are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 5:15p.m., 6:30p.m. and 7:45p.m.

Here’s the complete Flower Power concert series lineup:

March 9-11                     Jose Feliciano “Light My Fire”

March 16-18                   Starship starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”

March 23-25                   The Guess Who “American Woman”

March 30-April 1             The Spinners “Cupid”

April 6-8                        Chubby Checker & The Wildcats “The Twist”

April 13-15                    Paul Revere & The Raiders “Good Thing”

April 22-24                    The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie “Happy Together”

April 27-29                    NEW! Chuck Negron formerly of Three Dog Night “Joy to the World”

May 4-6                         NEW! The Orchestra featuring former members of ELO and ELO Part II “Don’t Bring Me Down”

May 11-13                     Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry the VIII, I Am”

May 18-20                     Davy Jones “I’m a Believer”

For more information about the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, please visit www.disneyworld.com/flower.

Early Fantasyland Openings Greet Spring Guests

Set for completion in 2014, the New Fantasyland will come to life starting spring 2012, offering guests the chance to fly high with The Great Goofini or with Dumbo the Flying Elephant, later “immerse” themselves in Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid and “be our guest” at the Beast’s Castle, plus other great attractions.

With the expansion, Fantasyland will nearly double in size and immerse guests in Disney stories as never before. As the largest expansion project in Magic Kingdom history, Fantasyland will open in phases with most new experiences open by 2013.

St. Patrick’s Day Festivities Invite ‘Wearin’ of the Green’ at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island March 15-17

Authentic Irish food, music and dance performances set the scene for a three-day St. Patrick’s Day celebration and the “wearin’ of the green” March 15-17 in and around the Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island.

At Raglan Road, a true Irish pub with Dublin roots, entertainment revs up the evenings of March 15 and 16 with house band Creel on the restaurant’s main stage while Murphy’s Law and The Irish Rogues perform on the Raglan Road patio. When St. Patrick’s Day arrives March 17, non-stop entertainment kicks off at noon with Creel, The Raglan Road Dancers, more outdoor entertainment and a special appearance by U2 tribute band Elevation.

The weekend of festivities spans Pleasure Island with live Pleasure Island stage performances by The Wyndbreakers — Florida’s own “neo-traditional, pub-rockin’, guitar pickin’ Celtic” musicians; Celtic Wave, with its own traditional Irish flair; and Celtic Nova, putting  its own twist on popular lrish tunes.  Family-fun activities will include face painting and stilt walkers, and St. Patrick’s Day souvenirs will be in abundance.

More St. Patrick’s Day fun is in store:

  • Authentic Irish cuisine is featured March 15 at 1 p.m. as Raglan Road celebrity Irish chef Kevin Dundon creates a four-course kickoff luncheon and culinary demonstration in the restaurant’s Grand Dining Room.  (Call 407-938-0300) or visit www.raglanroad.com for reservations).
  • March 15 and 16, beginning at 6 p.m.  Irish bands Murphy’s Law, known for modern Irish music, and The Irish Rogues, popular for ballads and other Irish folk tunes, perform on the Raglan Road patio.  At 7 p.m., house band Creel rocks the audience on the restaurant’s main stage – expect surprise guest appearances.  Guests can order favorites like fish ‘n chips and Shepherd’s pie from the restaurant’s lunch or dinner menus.
  • March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, doors open at 11 a.m.  House band Creel performs on the main stage at noon and at various times throughout the day.  Entertainment on the patio kicks off at 1 p.m. with Irish dancing from The Raglan Road Dancers and performers from the Watters School of Irish Dancing, established in Central Florida more than a decade ago to train young dancers for championship performances.  U2 tribute band Elevation is expected to bring down the house with renditions of U2′s greatest hits.  Guests can order from Raglan Road’s dinner menu throughout the day, which includes the authentic Irish dish of St. Patrick’s Day — loin of bacon and cabbage. A $10 cover charge applies on March 17 for guests 18 and older.

 

Atlanta Braves Return to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for Spring Training

Atlanta Braves Spring Training returns to Walt Disney World for the 15th consecutive year, with an 18-game home schedule featuring Major League Baseball’s top teams at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Marquee opponents visiting Champion Stadium in March include the World Champion St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets and Detroit Tigers.

Guests also will be treated to game-day entertainment and additional fan experiences in a way only Disney can do, from character appearances, to an exclusive On-Field Spectator Experience and kids running the bases after the game.

The schedule features three night games at Champion Stadium – the Washington Nationals on March 14 and the Houston Astros March 16 and 30.

Information on the Braves’ spring training season, group tickets and mini-packs is available by calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at www.espnwwos.com/atlantabraves. Individual game tickets are available through Ticketmaster (800/745-3000 and ticketmaster.com) and at the sports complex box office.

2012 Atlanta Braves Spring Training Home Schedule:

*SS – denotes split squad

All times are Eastern and are subject to change

 

Bon Voyage! Disney Fantasy Sets Sail Starting in March

Fresh from its March 1 christening in New York City, the Disney Fantasy will begin whisking guests away on week-long Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida, with her maiden voyage set for March 31, 2012. Rates for enchanting seven-night Caribbean itineraries start at $959 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Disney Fantasy itineraries will alternate between eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel) Caribbean destinations.

And it wouldn’t be an East Coast Disney cruise experience if each Disney Fantasy itinerary didn’t include a day at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. Guest comments suggest that this port of call is the “best stop” of the cruise, and is a day that can be filled with water fun, beach play or just plain relaxation plus cookout eating.

The Disney Fantasy is the second of two newly-designed Disney ships that take the family cruise experience to new heights – and features many of the innovations found on her sister ship, Disney Dream, plus exciting new shipboard additions. Both cruise ships are 1,115 feet in length, with 1,250 staterooms and suites and  4,000-passenger capacity.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent.

Royal Rooms Make Debut at Port Orleans Riverside

An enchanting new hotel offering fit for a prince or princess opens its regal doors at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside in spring 2012.

Behind a special door is a hidden jewel, The Royal Guest Room, with 512 themed rooms where beds are trimmed with dazzling crystals and gold accents and “magical fireworks” swirl about.  The new Royal Rooms immerse families in favorite Disney fairytales with fun and engaging features, playful artwork, plus richly appointed drapery and custom linens. Rooms sleep four with rates starting at $198. Call 407-W/DISNEY for reservations.

Related articles
  • St. Patrick’s Day Festivities Invite ‘Wearin’ of the Green’ at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island March 15-17 (chipandco.com)
  • Epcot 2012 Flower and Garden Festival Events (chipandco.com)
Coming to Disney in March/April 2012

Marvel and Harley Davidson Join Forces Again for New Contest

By
Chip
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Marvel and Harley Davidson Join Forces Again for New Contest

Harley-Davidson and Marvel Entertainment have come together again for the Assemble Your Freedom contest where customers can assemble their dream bike and become a character in an Avengers comic.

From now through July 1, anyone can enter the Assemble Your Freedom contest online at www.harley-davidson.com/wcm/avengers. Just create a profile with a hero name and description along with selecting a Super Hero bike model and features on the Harley-Davidson H-D1 Bike Builder.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Marvel again and to do it with such a great and historic property like the Avengers,” said Dino Bernacchi, Harley-Davidson Marketing Communication Director. “The Assemble Your Freedom contest gives anyone who believes in things like freedom and independence the chance to express their passion and spirit for Harley-Davidson and Avengers in a truly unique way. They’ll be able to ride into an Avengers mission and be immortalized in this special edition digital comic.”

The Assemble Your Freedom contest will be select five winners based on various factors with prizes that include the motorcycle they created and being immortalized with a personal likeness and motorcycle drawn into a custom Avengers comic book.

Based on the ever-popular Marvel comic book series, the Avengers film brings together the mightiest Super Hero characters on screen for the first time. The recently launched Harley-Davidson Softail Slim motorcycle will have a role in the new Avengers film, scheduled to premiere on May 4, 2012.

Marvel and Harley Davidson Join Forces Again for New Contest

Top 5 Disney World Character Conundrums

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Top 5 Disney World Character Conundrums

Let’s face it…we’re all little kids when we’re at Walt Disney World and although we blame it on our children, we’re just as excited to see the characters as they are. Something inside of us still jumps when we see Mickey Mouse and we point and yell…and pretend we’re doing it for the sake of our children.

Nothing is worse than passing a closed line for your child’s favorite character and trying to explain why they can’t meet them. Coming in close behind the closed lines are the other character conundrums you’ll undoubtedly be faced with at some point during your trip. So what are they and how do you avoid them?

  • Closed Lines: The excitement on your child’s face when they spot their favorite character is paralleled only by the despair when the character line is closed. There are few things worse than having to explain to your child why they can’t meet their favorite character. Avoid this character conundrum by planning ahead. Get a times guide when you enter the park and highlight the locations and times of the characters that are on your “must do” list. Line up a few minutes before the character is due to come out and you’ll be ready meet n’ greet as soon as they are!
  • Unprepared fellow travelers in line: It never fails that you’re finally in your character line and you’re sweating bullets wondering when and where they’re going to close the line at. In the midst of your frantic fears of being cut off from the line the person in front of you is fumbling around for their autograph book, can’t find a pen, is dropping things everywhere and screaming at their children; simultaneously. Yes, they are the worlds worst multi-tasker and cause mass chaos. Don’t be this person. If you’re getting in line for a character meet n’ greet be prepared to meet n’ greet. That means have your autograph books out and open to the page you want signed. Have the pen ready, uncapped and in the page for the character to sign and if you have multiple books to be signed, open them all and prepare them and stack them on top of each other to make it easy for our furry friends to sign.
  • Can’t Find Your Favorite Characters: Again, this can be avoided by planning ahead. The times guides in each park will tell you which characters you can find where and when. Grab a highlighter or a pen and mark which characters you can’t miss and include those times into your touring plans. Remember that certain characters can be found in multiple places so you can optimize your touring plans and character hunting schedule. You should also consider character meals, they provide a very relaxed environment to meet and greet and can save you hours of running around the parks waiting in line. If you have a Princess in your family have a meal at Askherhaus in Epcot or Cinderella’s Royal Table (this is a signature experience and will take 2 dining credits). If it’s just Cinderella you’re after, you can find her at dinner at 1900 Park Fare (Grand Floridian Resort and Spa).
  • People taking too long in line: Time is precious when it comes to character meet n’ greets, particularly in the summer when the hot Florida sun is melting your skin and our fuzzy friends are about to drop from heat exhaustion. Be courteous to your fellow line standers and be prepared. Have your autograph books ready and opened to the page you want signed, have your camera ready and have a designated photographer in your travel party. If you want a family photo as the character handler, PhotoPass photographer (where available) or person behind you in line if they would mind taking a photo. This means you should plan ahead. If there’s no PhotoPass photographer and the character handler looks busy you should start a conversation with someone in line and offer to do a photo swap-have them take a photo of your family and you take a photo of theirs. Prepare your kids while you wait in line, tell them if the autograph is coming first or the photo and occupy some time by asking them what they plan on saying to the character or any questions they would like to ask. This way when it’s your turn they’re prepared and have more quality time interacting with the character than saying “um….” and looking terrified. It’s also a great way to pass time in line!
  • Line Jumpers: A line is a line. It’s not negotiable and it’s not serve yourself. While we appreciate that you love characters as much as we do, please wait your turn in line. This is a double edged sword and requires at least one person in your party to stand IN the line. This means not wandering around and coming back and getting in “your spot” whenever you feel like it or allowing 5 strangers to cut in front of you. If you are in the line, be in the line. Know who is front of you and who is behind you and be courteous. No one appreciates it when you run in with your child from the side and get your character interaction without being in line. Be fair and be a good example to the children standing and waiting in line and don’t cause problems with other adults. While some adults may appreciate cage boxing, the Walt Disney World character line isn’t the place to throw down on someone who has aggravated you.

These are just a few of the main character conundrums that you may face while in the parks. While you may not be able to control the behavior of others you can control your own. Be prepared and friendly and realize that you aren’t the only person in the “world”. Set a good example for your children (and others) and wait patiently. Don’t forget that FastPasses are available for many of the popular character experiences, particularly in the Magic Kingdom.

If you are a character hunter, book your trip with me and i’ll customize and personalize an autograph book for you with your favorite characters. All books are 5×7, spiral bound, double laminated and come with a chart of characters and locations. These books are never pre-made and are truly one of a kind! Book with Pixie Michele and mention Chip and Co and the book is yours at no cost (as are my concierge level services!) [email protected]

Related articles
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Top 5 Disney World Character Conundrums

Disney FamilyTime – Family Fun Night Sweepstakes

By
Chip
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Disney FamilyTime - Family Fun Night Sweepstakes

Every week until March 8th, FamilyTime is giving away a “Family Fun Night Pack” which includes games, movies, and snacks (including popcorn and Tyson® Chicken Nuggets) of your choice (value $100). On March 9th one lucky person will win a 42″ 3-D HDTV.

Click here to learn more and to enter

 

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Disney FamilyTime - Family Fun Night Sweepstakes

Disney World Quick Tips for Parents with Children under 3

By
Chip
-

Disney World Quick Tips for Parents with Children under 3

We have been bringing our girls to Disney World for some time now. Our oldest who is 5 has been to Disney World 6 times and my youngest who just turned 1 has already been twice. So traveling to the parks with children is something I know pretty well.

Having said that it has been a learning process for us. Some things we have tried were an utter disaster while others were great ideas that we use time and again. I wanted to share some of the Quick Tips we have learned to help make your trip much more enjoyable.

  • Rent a stroller – Our last trip we opted to leave our stroller at home and go with a stroller rental company. Matt from Kingdom Stroller Rentals was nice enough to hook us up with the stroller you see above, The City Elite Double. While it was much larger than our stroller from home. It was nice to have extra room in our trunk on the drive down and all the amenities on board really made for a great vacation! Our only complaint was the size and the difficulty of bringing it on the older buses at Disney World. It was a tight squeeze…
  • Head back to the room for naps – Almost every day we would head back to the room to take a nap, freshen up, go for a swim, and have lunch. My wife would nap with our little one and my 5 year old and I would explore the resort or head down to the pool. With a short break during the hottest time of the day our little ones were less cranky and we all felt energized to be able to stay at the parks later.
  • Visit the Baby Care Centers – Every park has a Baby Care Center. They are free to use and perfect if you are nursing, need to change a diaper, let little ones go potty, you can even give your little ones lunch. I have consumed many a family meal at a baby care center. If you forgot something or ran out you can purchase anything from Goldfish to Diapers and Wipes. Also they have toys for all ages and Disney movies or tv shows playing in the play room. Remember to use hand sanitizer afterwards!
  • Nurse on dark rides – My wife was a pro at nursing our little one on the dark rides. If you ask a cast member to be seated at the rear of the boat or vehicle about 99% of the time they say no problem and will have you step aside till that spot comes available. To see a list of rides that are perfect to nurse on click here.
  • Visit the parks early – We get most of our riding done as soon as the park opens or an hour early on Extra Magic Hour Days. It is cooler outside, less people, I am up at the butt crack of dawn anyway, and I can’t wait to get to the parks! You have to figure I am gonna be going back to the room around lunch time so if I am tired I can sneak in a little nap.
  • Don’t stay out to late – Finally I can’t tell you how many fussy children I see at the parks after 9pm. It is obvious the kids are tired but the parents are trying to squeeze in one last ride before they go. Also if your waiting for the fireworks like Illuminations: Reflections of Earth to start you can hear the faint cry of the sleepy baby. I myself am guilty of this so I am not trying to criticize your parenting but have learned if you keep your kids on their normal schedule it makes for a happy baby.
  • Head to Guest Services – As soon as you get to the parks on the first day head to Guest Services and get a Happy Birthday Button for your little one, even if it isn’t their Birthday. They will get so much attention from Cast Members it is CRAZY! This is our tradition we like to do is pick up Happy Anniversary buttons for us and Birthday Buttons for the girls. While your there you can pick up Park Maps, and Times Guides too!

That is all I have for now. Hopefully these tips will help make your next trip even more enjoyable. If you have any more we would love to hear them in the comment box below.

Related articles
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Disney World Quick Tips for Parents with Children under 3

Epcot 2012 Flower and Garden Festival Events

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Epcot 2012 Flower and Garden Festival Events

 

The weather is warming up and soon spring will be sprung! That means it’s time for the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival!

The 2012 show will run from March 7th to May 20th this year and will offer all the floral grandeur of years past and then some.

When you think of the Flower and Garden festival the photos of the Disney topiaries probably come to mind, wondering why you should go to Disney to look at some flowers? Well, there’s more to the Flower and Garden festival than just the topiaries; quite a bit more actually!

The festival is presented by HGTV and they are proud to bring educational presentations, themed weekends, special displays and other fun activities!

Educational Presentations-Put your learning caps on and get your green thumb ready!

  • HGTV Designers Stage-Informative and entertaining presentations from nationally recognized garden personalities. These take place at noon and 3:00pm Monday through Thursday at the Festival Center.
  • Greenhouse Stage-Tips and tricks from gardening experts on various topics. These take place at 11am and 2pm daily at the Festival Center
  • Planting Pointers-Learn from the gardening experts at the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Florida. Topics vary daily and are offered at 1:00pm and 4:00pm daily.
  • Ask an Expert: Master gardeners from the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Florida answer your gardening questions. This is available 10:00am to 5:00pm daily at the Festival Center

Themed Weekends

  • Art in the Garden-(March 23rd to 25th) “Plein air” artists bring one-of-a-kind works of art to the World Showcase.
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Specialists-(April 13th to 15th)-Animal Kingdom experts talk about the indigenous insects that are part of our world.
  • Florida Federation of Garden Clubs: (April 27th to 29th)-View amazing arrangements brought to you by the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs!
  • Fresh from Florida Weekend-(May 4th to 6th)-The bounty of Florida from Apalachiocla to Zellwood

Special Displays

  • Bambi’s Butterfly House-Hundreds of native butterflies accompany your favorite Bambi characters in the topiary at Imagination Walkway
  • Sustainable Beauty-A showcase of sustainable gardens you can try at home!
  • English Tea Garden-(presented by Twinings of London Tea)-20-minute tour of the art of tea blending feature classic tea blends and new herbal teas. Tours are Monday through Thursday at 4:00pm and 6:00pm and Friday through Sunday 2:00pm, 4:00pm and 6:30pm. Register for your guided tour at the Tea Caddy (United Kingdom Pavilion)

Unique Gardens on display in the Park

  • Bonsai Collection-Japan Pavilion
  • Festival Blooms-Future World East and West Lake
  • Kid Garden-to be announced
  • Orchids-Mexico Pavilion
  • Spice and Herb Garden-Morocco Pavilion
  • Water Wise Herbs and Vegetables

Fun Activities

  • Epcot Gardens of the World Tour: 3-hour tour by a Disney horticulturist available Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:00am to 12:00 noon. Register at Guest Relations or call (407) WDW-TOUR. Cost is $60.00 including tax and theme park admission is required. Guest 16 and older only please. Price of tour is subject to change.
  • Let’s Get Moving: (located at Imagination Walkway)-Play structures from Evos play systems for ages 6+ and Weevos play systems for ages 2-5.
  • Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden: (Located at Imagination Walkway) Look for your favorite Disney characters in topiary form as you explore the garden world of Pixie Hollow. Play structures available for ages 2-5. *Gardens with play structures close daily at dusk
  • Sounds of Nature: Listen to the soothing sounds of nature next to the Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden

Flower Power Concert Series

  • Where?-America Gardens Theater at World Showcase
  • When?-Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 5:15pm, 6:30pm and 7:45pm
  • Who?-
  • Jose Feliciano (“Light My Fire”)-March 9th to March 11th
  • Starship Starring Mickey Thomas (“We Built This City”)-March 16th to March 18th
  • The Guess Who (“American Woman”)-March 23rd to 25th
  • The Spinners (“Cupid”)-March 30th to April 1st
  • Chubby Checker and the Wildcats (“The Twist”)-April 6th to April 8th
  • Paul Revere and the Raiders (“Good Thing”)-April 13th to April 15th
  • The Turtles Featuring Flo and Eddie (“Happy Together”)-April 20th to 22nd
  • Chuck Negron (Formerly of Three Dog Night)(“Joy to the World”)-April 27th to April 29th
  • The Orchestra (Featuring former members of ELO and ELO Part II)(“Don’t Bring Me Down”)-May 4th to May 6th
  • Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone (“I’m Henry VIII, I AM”)-May 11th to May 13th
  • Davy Jones (“I’m a believer”)-May 18th to 20th
  • Note: Epcot theme park admission is required for all events at the Flower and Garden Festival. Entertainment is subject to change without notice. All songs listed are for artist recognition only and may not be included in the playlist

***Pixie Exclusive Offer for Flower and Garden Festival!***

Save up to $834 on your trip for Flower and Garden Festival!

  • Book by March 21st for travel April 21st to April 26th
  • Packages Include:
  • Accommodations at a Disney Resort
  • Magic Your Way Base Tickets (Hopper Option Available)
  • Disney’s Plus Dining Plan
  • A FREE DisneyQuest or Disney Water Park Ticket
  • Sample Pricing: $111 per person per day for a family of 4 at a Moderate Resort with the package as listed above!
  • Resorts Available:
  • Coronado Springs (Moderate)
  • Contemporary (Deluxe)
  • Polynesian (Deluxe)
  • Beach Club (Deluxe)
  • Saratoga Springs (Deluxe Villa)
  • Bay Lake Tower (Deluxe Villa)

Contact me for availability and for your free quote! Mention code EFG12 and ask me about other dates and rates! [email protected]

Related articles
  • Coming Soon! Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival March 7-May 20 (chipandco.com)
  • 2012 Flower Power Concert Series at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival (chipandco.com)

 

Epcot 2012 Flower and Garden Festival Events

What is a Signature Restaurant?

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-
California Grill at Disney Contemporary Resort
California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort

There are 139 restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort. While many offer unique dining experiences featuring Character appearances and/or distinctively themed décor, only a handful are considered Signature Dining experiences.

Signature Dining restaurants provide unparalleled cuisine in upscale, elegant surroundings, sampling only the finest fare Disney chefs can prepare. Each meal includes an entrée, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage. Children’s menus are available. If you are on the Disney Dining Plan, Signature Dining restaurants will require two of your table service credits. If not on Disney Dining, expect to pay $30-$60 per adult entrée. Appetizers and desserts are an additional expense and gratuity is not included.

Walt Disney World Signature Restaurants
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Jiko-The Cooking Place (D)
Disney’s BoardWalk
Flying Fish Cafe (D)
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
California Grill (D)
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Cítricos (D)
Narcoossee’s (D)
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Artist Point (D)
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts
Yachtsman Steakhouse (D)
Epcot®
Le Cellier Steakhouse (D)
Bistro de Paris(D)
Disney’s Hollywood Studios®
The Hollywood Brown Derby (L,D)
Downtown Disney® Area
Fulton’s Crab House (L,D)
Wolfgang Puck®: The Dining Room (D)
(L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

Warm Banana-Chocolate Torte with Vanilla Ice Cream-Citricos at Disney
Warm Banana-Chocolate Torte with Vanilla Ice Cream from Citricos

The dress code for Signature restaurants is resort casual. For men that includes dress slacks, jeans, trousers or dress shorts with short- or long-sleeved shirt with a collar or t-shirt. (Jackets are optional.) Ladies should wear jeans, skirt or dress shorts with blouse, sweater or t-shirt, or a dress. No tank tops, swimsuits or swimsuit cover-ups, hats for gentlemen, cut-offs, torn clothing of any kind, or t-shirts with offensive language and/or graphics are permitted in the dining room.

Reservations for Signature Dining are strongly recommended and can be made 180 days in advance of your visit by calling (407)WDW-DINE. To view a full list of Walt Disney World Resort restaurants, their classifications and how many Disney Dining Plan credits they use, view the 2012 Disney Dining Plan brochure. Disneyland Resort dining options differ from those of Walt Disney World Resort.  Only Napa Rose and Steakhouse 55 are considered Signature Restaurants at DLR.

HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway

It’s time for another giveaway from Chip and Company and Disney on Wheels! Melissa & Drew picked up some AWESOME prizes on their recent vacation at Walt Disney World with me and my family. It was nice to see Mel & Drew again at Disney World and to help Mel finally get on the Pirates of the Caribbean Ride after so many years.  Check out that very heartwarming article from Mel… Now on to the GIVEAWAY!

Items included in the giveaway are:

HUGE Disney Prize Pack GiveawayA Dumbo Ear Hat

HUGE Disney Prize Pack GiveawayA Stuffed Jedi Mickey

HUGE Disney Prize Pack GiveawayA Disney Park Collection Pin

And as an added bonus this Walt Disney World Passholder exclusive calendar. There is a different Disney Animation photo for each month. You can mix and match as you choose or you can use the suggestions included.

HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway

HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway

To enter just use the Rafflecopter widget below. Thanks in advance for entering!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Related articles
  • $25 Disney Giftcard Giveaway (chipandco.com)
  • Disney World’s 40th Anniversary Prize Pack Giveaway (chipandco.com)
HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway
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