D23’s Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th at the Walt Disney World Resort

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March 12, 2011

This year Walt Disney World Resort is celebrating its milestone 40th anniversary, and D23 is saluting this magnificent occasion with a magical two-day event that will illuminate the rich history and storied legacy of Walt Disney’s “Project Florida” for fans of all backgrounds — from the casual guest to the most ardent armchair experts.

Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th will transport D23 Members on a journey from the moment the first parcels of land in Central Florida were purchased in 1964 through the opening of EPCOT Center in 1982. The exclusive event will offer two full days of special entertainment, surprise guest appearances, a remarkable gathering of Walt Disney World “pioneers,” retrospectives, screenings of rare and newly discovered film and TV footage, archival displays and informative presentations that will give D23 Members an unprecedented look at this truly spectacular World.

Highlights of Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th include appearances by such notables as Disney Legends Marty Sklar, Bob Gurr, Jack Lindquist, Charlie Ridgway, Tom Nabbe, Bob Matheison, Orlando Ferrante and Ron Logan, in addition to Debra Browne, the 1971 Walt Disney World Ambassador to the World.

The weekend will culminate with an enchanting concert, Magic Journeys: A Flight of Fancy through 40 Years of Walt Disney World Musical Memories, featuring Disney Legend and Academy Award® winner Richard M. Sherman.

All guests will also receive a complimentary, limited-edition reproduction of the 1970 “Preview Edition” of the Walt Disney World souvenir guidebook. Published exclusively for the Walt Disney Archives Collection, the 22-page soft cover booklet — featuring colorful photography and exquisite illustrations — highlights the excitement that was soon to debut in Orlando.

Plus there will be a special exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives featuring rare items and artifacts from the creation and evolution of Walt Disney World Resort.

If you wish to request sign language interpreting services for this event, please submit your request to [email protected] at least two weeks prior to the event date.

You may purchase discounted Walt Disney World Resort park tickets to use during your time at Destination D and/or D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt by clicking here.

Current line-up for Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th (times, panels and talent subject to change):

SATURDAY, MAY 14, 2011

Opening Program
9:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
D23 Head Steven Clark welcomes D23 Members with some special guests and a few surprises you won’t want to miss!

Weird Walt Disney World
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Following their laugh-out-loud antics at Destination D: Disneyland ’55, Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline and Disney historian Paul F. Anderson are at it again — this time taking guests on a fun-filled trip through the strangest and most bizarre parts of Walt Disney World history. A peculiar “lawnmower tree?” A crazy cast of singing fruits and vegetables? Who knows what the duo will unearth as they explore the wonderfully weird and wacky side of the Vacation Kingdom.

Walt Disney World: The Way We Were
11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Remember the charm of the Orange Bird and the musical delights of the Mickey Mouse Revue? The elegant Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village and backwoods adventures along the Fort Wilderness Railway? Join Walt Disney Archives founder Dave Smith as we explore vintage pictures of Walt Disney World theme parks and resorts, including rare photos of construction and a fond look at some favorite attractions, shops and restaurants of the past.

Lunch Break
12:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

EPCOT: Walt Disney’s Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow
2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Walt’s vision for an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow far transcended the realm of family entertainment and for many years remained shrouded in secrecy. Re-enter the 1960s hallways of WED Enterprises with Archivist Steven Vagnini and Disney expert Paul F. Anderson in this unprecedented look at the inspirations and plans for Walt’s EPCOT, and find out the little-known ways that Imagineers brought their late founder’s dream to reality throughout the entire Walt Disney World Resort.

Past Forward: A History of Walt Disney World on Television
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Like its predecessor, Disneyland, the early success of Walt Disney World Resort can be attributed to the extensive television exposure it received through both Disney broadcast efforts and news media coverage. Be sure to tune in to this nostalgic journey through Walt Disney World Resort history as reflected in the many national network TV specials and nascent offerings from the early years of The Disney Channel. Join Disney Archivist Rob Klein as he takes TV remote in hand to stroll through some of the many highlights of Walt Disney World Resort on television.

The Walt Disney World That Never Was
4:30 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.
What do the Western River Expedition, Asian Resort Hotel and Sleeping Beauty dark ride have in common? While these amazing experiences were crafted in the minds of skilled artists at Walt Disney Imagineering, they comprise a different kind of dimension of Walt Disney World history: the grand experiences that never made it off the drawing board or out of the model shop. With an array of rare artwork and photographs, longtime Imagineer Tony Baxter lifts the curtain and takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour through the incredible world of the Walt Disney World that never was.

Dinner Break
5:45 p.m. – 8 p.m.

From the Vault: Walt Disney World Resort on Film
8 p.m. – Walt Disney World is not often associated with motion pictures and film, but from before groundbreaking up through the creation of EPCOT Center, Walt Disney World Resort was heavily promoted through such theatrical and internal films as “Project Florida,” “The Magic of Walt Disney World,” “A Dream Called EPCOT” and “EPCOT 77.” Join your hosts Disney Imagineer Tony Baxter and Disney author and historian Tim O’Day as they screen these rare treasures from the Disney film vaults, plus newly discovered and restored documentation footage of the construction and early years of Walt Disney World Resort.

SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2011
Sunday Morning Surprise with the Walt Disney World Resort Ambassador Team
9:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
You won’t want to miss this very special — and did we mention surprising? — presentation at the start of your day!

Walt Disney World in Detail
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Think you know everything there is to know about the Walt Disney World Resort? Find out as we join Disney author and Imagineer Jason Surrell as he uncovers the little-known details and design references that have made ride vehicles, cast member costumes and even unassuming trash cans such treasured parts of the magic.

Imagineering Walt Disney World: From Yesteryear to Tomorrowland
11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Join longtime Imagineer Eric Jacobson, who oversees the portfolio for Disney’s largest resort in the world. Eric will share insider stories and images of yesteryear, as well as new and exciting surprises of things on the horizon at Walt Disney World.

Lunch Break
12:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

Creating “A Whole New Disney World”
2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
What began as 27,400 acres of quiet Central Florida swampland blossomed into an incredible, one-of-a-kind vacation destination “Where Dreams Come True.” From the top-secret acquisition of the land to the Imagineering and entertainment behind the magic, hear the stories of how it all happened in this impressive panel discussion featuring: Debra Browne, Orlando Ferrante, Bob Foster, Bob Gurr, and Ron Logan. Hosted by Disney Legend Marty Sklar.

Making the Magic Happen
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Opening and maintaining a resort the size of the city of San Francisco was no easy task and our panel of Disney Legends — Jack Lindquist, Bob Matheison, Tom Nabbe, Charlie Ridgway and Bill Sullivan — will recount what life was like making the magic happen, from opening the Magic Kingdom through the debut of EPCOT Center. It’s a story of challenges, misadventures, creativity, and unbridled excitement for the leaders who inherited “A Whole New Disney World” from Uncle Walt and his Imagineers. Hosted by Tim O’Day.

Quick Break
4:45 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Autograph Session with Disney Legends and Authors
5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Please note, there is limit of one item per person to be signed for each guest. Thank you.

Dinner Break
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Magic Journeys: A Flight of Fancy through 40 Years of Walt Disney World Musical Memories
8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
As a spectacular conclusion to Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th, Disney Legend and Oscar® winner Richard M. Sherman, who along with his brother Robert has contributed a multitude of tunes to the Disney parks songbook, headlines this unforgettable tribute to the melodies that helped shape the World.

Micks N’ Mingle
9:30 p.m. – 10:45 p.m.
One last opportunity to meet your fellow D23 Members, the D23 Team behind Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th and some of our special guest participants before we officially bring our extraordinary event to a close.

NOTE: Available only to D23 Members in good standing. Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest. There are a limited number of tickets available. The room will be cleared during several breaks; during these breaks seats may not be saved. This is a separate event from D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt. D23 Members will be required to provide their membership number when purchasing tickets. Credentials may be picked up only with a valid photo ID AND D23 MEMBERSHIP CARD. D23 Members who do not bring their membership card may not be admitted to the event. Ticketed members who do not attend the event forfeit their place as well as all experiences, benefits, and gifts associated with the event. All D23 Special Events are subject to change without notice. Panels are subject to change. Talent is subject to availability. There are no cancelations or refunds, and tickets are not transferrable.

D23's Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th at the Walt Disney World Resort

Disneyland Resort to Welcome Two New Shops to Downtown Disney District

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

Disneyland Resort today announced two new retail stores coming to Downtown Disney this spring – Sanuk, a footwear shop and BLINK, a denim apparel store.

“We look forward to welcoming both Sanuk and BLINK to Downtown Disney,” said Tony Bruno, vice president, Disneyland Resort hotels and Downtown Disney. “Both locations will provide our guests with distinctive product and are a great fit with our unique blend of retail, dining and entertainment offerings.”

Sanuk’s new flagship location will offer the largest selection of product available outside of the company’s online store, including flip flops, surf sandals and other beach footwear, such as their signature yoga mat flip-flops.

“Taking its name from the Thai word for fun, Sanuk strives to make innovative products that are as much about funk as they are about function,” said Jeff Kelley, Sanuk founder. “We are happy to be back at Downtown Disney.”

Sanuk first joined Downtown Disney in 2010 – that pop-up was the company’s first retail store. Its success paved the way for the new, larger space.

Also coming to Downtown Disney this spring is BLINK, a denim-focused pop-up concept, owned by Wet Seal. BLINK features the latest trends in denim, while also offering a variety of fashion and casual tops, as well as accessories to complete a desired look. The BLINK concept was developed out of Wet Seal’s strong denim focus and serves as an extension of the brand.

“Opening Wet Seal’s concept shop BLINK in Downtown Disney, a major Southern California tourist destination, will be a great opportunity for the brand,” said Steve Benrubi, chief financial officer of The Wet Seal, Inc. “We’re eager to feature our new location in the vibrant entertainment area of the resort, and expect that visitors will enjoy shopping a wide assortment of merchandise.”

At BLINK, “Denim Experts” will be available to offer a high level of service and product knowledge about dozens of styles from various fashion brands.

Disneyland Resort to Welcome Two New Shops to Downtown Disney District

GIJoeCon 2011 invades Walt Disney World

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

You’ve heard about it, you’ve read about it, and now you can experience it!

In 2011, fans from all over the world will return to Walt Disney World for another magical celebration of G.I. Joe! Don’t miss this fantastic family fun event! Whether you collect 3 3/4”, 12”, vintage or modern figures, you owe it to yourself to attend this special weekend. Join us for the International G.I. Joe Collectors’
Convention at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort March 31- April 3!

Here is what you’ll experience at the show…

Special Guests-including some of the original creators from the 1980s and 1960s. Meet and talk to “Joelebrities” like Larry Hama, Kirk Bozigian, Sam Speers, Sam Petrucci, Jerry Einhorn, Bob Prupis, Norman Jaques and of course, the Hasbro G.I. Joe Team. The Hasbro team will be on hand the entire weekend to
show you the upcoming products and to answer your burning G.I. Joe questions.

Panels and Seminars-led by Hasbro, special guests and experts in the G.I. Joe community. These presentations will totally immerse you in all things G.I. Joe. Learn inside information, meet Joelebrities, watch demonstrations and more!

Sales Room-featuring over 200 tables of G.I. Joe merchandise for sale. There are thousands of items each year that trade hands in this GIJoeCon focal point.

G.I. Joe Film Fest-displaying the talents of G.I. Joe fans from all over the world. Come watch as stories you have never dreamed of unfold on the big screen!

Contests-showcasing the incredible skills of G.I. Joe craftsmen everywhere. Start designing your entries today as you could be a big winner in one of the five different GIJoeCon contests.

Diorama Beach-a place to play with your figures! On Friday morning, we will gather at the lagoon beach to set up two of the largest beach landing scenes ever! Bring your figures and vehicles to be part of this gigantic diorama of fun!

Parachute Drop-is back! Friday morning, join us for another special parachute figure drop event! Watch the fun as 300+ 3 3/4” action figures parachute from 10 stories up!

Will it be an ambush or a rescue? Don’t miss this exciting story!

Jungles, snakes, spies and more snakes will haunt this G.I. Joe Covert Operations team’s memory for years to come. A nastier nest of pythons has never existed! This is the Python Patrol’s main base of operations and boy, do they have some surprises in store for the G.I. Joe team!*

Click here for more information

Disney Picks Up Sci-Fi Project ‘The Runner’

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

According to the Hollywood Reporter Disney has picked up a new sci-fi series called ‘The Runner’. Here are the details:

Disney has picked up a sci-fi adventure project from Dave Andron, the developer of NBC’s recent Knight Rider reboot, titled The Runner, with Marc Forster attached to direct.

Brian Grazer and his Imagine Entertainment banner are producing along with Zak Kadison of Blacklight Transmedia. Forster will also produce with his Apparatus shingle partner Brad Simpson.

The story centers on a lone man who is sent back in time to change the course of history but who also has a personal motive of saving the love of his life.

Click here to keep reading more.

Does this sound like something you would watch? Let us know in the comment section below.

Disney Picks Up Sci-Fi Project 'The Runner'

X-Men: First Class International Poster & Trailer

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

Professor X and Magneto take center stage in the international posters for ‘X-Men: First Class‘

Follow the formative years of the X-Men and the relationship between Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr, a.k.a. Magneto. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, “X-Men: First Class” stars Michael Fassbender, Rose Byrne January Jones, Jason Flemyng, Nicholas Hoult, Lucas Till, Zoe Kravitz, Jennifer Lawrence, James McAvoy and more!

Are you going to see this in theaters? Let us know in the comment section below.

More on Marvel.com: http://marvel.com/news/story/15337/x-men_first_class_international_posters#ixzz1G7qzViGi

X-Men: First Class International Poster & Trailer

Very Cool: National Geographic Recreates Pixar’s Up Floating House In Real Life

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

Can a House Really Float?

Is it really possible to lift a house off the ground with helium balloons, like in the movie Up?

National Geographic Channel‘s new television series, “How Hard Can It Be?,” aimed to find out, and ended up setting a world record for the largest balloon cluster flight ever attempted.

So how many balloons do you think it took to raise this house 10,000 feet over a private airfield outside Los Angeles? Check your guess here.

Video: National Geographic Channel

Very Cool: National Geographic Recreates Pixar’s Up Floating House In Real Life

All New Cars 2 Trailer # 3

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

Here is the new trailer for Pixar’s Cars 2.
Like CARS 2 on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/PixarCars

CARS 2 races into theaters June 24, 2011.

Disney’s Grad Night is Cancelled after 2011

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

This article comes to us from Disney Parks Blog:

For many years, we’ve been thrilled to host high school graduation celebrations at Walt Disney World known as Grad Nite. And I know many Disney Parks Blog readers (like myself) have been part of the tradition – it’s become a rite of passage for seniors. That’s why today we wanted to share an important update; we will no longer be hosting Disney Grad Nite at the Walt Disney World Resort after this year’s event. With more leisure guests visiting in the springtime, it’s become challenging to schedule special events during April and May. Instead, graduates will have new opportunities to celebrate with us in the parks at more flexible and convenient times.

We’ve recently seen more and more students visiting Walt Disney World as part of a broader senior class trip. And activities such as youth sports competitions, performing arts programs, including performances, workshops and festivals, and educational programs now give teens chances to experience Walt Disney World virtually any time of the year. Through special pricing, we’ll be offering students the flexibility to visit and celebrate their achievements here at the parks when they want to. In Florida, school groups can continue the tradition with a special one-day, one-park ticket for $55 valid anytime of the year. Also, Disney Youth Programs can arrange customized experiences.

Disney Grad Nite 2011 at Walt Disney World (and Disneyland Resort) will be held as planned during the dates Tim shared with you last month. And Grad Nite at Disneyland Resort will continue as normal – there are no plans to change the existing offering at the resort. Please stay tuned to the Blog for the most up-to-date information.

Grad Nite Update at Walt Disney World by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Disney to Give Away Private Screening of the Disney Movie “Prom”

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

Stumps, the world’s largest prom and party supplier is collaborating with Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures to award one lucky person and 99 of his/her closest friends a private screening of the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures motion picture “Prom” in the winner’s hometown a full week before the movie is released in theaters on April 29, 2011.

This “contest within a contest” is being conducting in association with the Stumps Proms Across America Contest that has already generated over 2 million votes from students, teachers and parents in an effort to win a free prom for their school from Stumps Prom and Party. Anyone who votes in the Proms Across America Contest from February 24th through March 16th will be entered to win the private screening of “PROM.”

The winner of the “Prom” Movie Screening Contest will be awarded one private advanced screening of the Disney motion picture which portrays the precarious passage from high school to independence and the insecurity and anticipation that surrounds one of high school’s most prominent events. In true Disney fashion, “Prom” features an emerging ensemble cast and a powerful soundtrack. The screening will take place in a movie theater in the winner’s hometown.

“We are so excited to be working with Disney. One lucky student is going to be very popular at their school when they are chosen as the winner for the private screening! We are also working with Disney to help with the prom decorations that they will be using at their own prom on the night of the official Disney ‘Prom’ premiere at the Hollywood High School gym,” states Jacquie Downey, Director of Sales and Marketing.

Anyone can enter the screening contest by casting votes in the Proms Across America contest at http://www.stumpsparty.com/freeprom. After casting a vote between February 24th and March 15th, entrants will be given instructions on how to submit their “Prom” contest entry.

The 2011 Walt Disney Studios & DreamWorks Pictures Movie Schedule (chipandco.com)
Releasing in 2011 from Walt Disney Studios & DreamWorks Pictures (chipandco.com)

Disney to Give Away Private Screening of the Disney Movie “Prom”

Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend – Registration is Now Open!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 12, 2011

Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend - Registration is Now Open!

Disney Wine& Dine Half Marathon Weekend

Setpember 30- October 1, 2011

Imagine running through the Disney Parks – at night! You’ll race under the stars and enjoy world class Disney entertainment all along the way. The highlight of your dream run? A special Epcot® afterparty!

Registration is now open for the Half Marathon, Relay, 5K, and Kids’ Races! Register for your dream run today! Check out the latest news on the run full of drinking, eating and fun…

RUN

Make sure you reserve your spot in the half marathon or half marathon relay before April 17, 2011 to save on the entry fees. The 5K will be held at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Park on Saturday, October 1 at 7:00 a.m. and the Kids’ Races will take place at 10:00 a.m. at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

DRINK

The finish line will be located in the Epcot® parking lot and only steps away runners (21 years old or older) will have the opportunity to enjoy their first beer in the finish line beer garden. The new finish line location will include an expanded bag claim and changing area so you can get ready for the runner’s night out.

EAT

We know why you run… to eat! In addition to the Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival’s 25 international marketplace kiosks along World Showcase, there will be 20 more dining locations available throughout the park to redeem your “taste” included with your race registration.

FUN

Run to the fun! The Finish Line Party will include select attractions along World Showcase and inside Future World like Soarin’, The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Maelstrom water adventure in the Norway Pavilion and more. Live entertainment and character meet & greets will take place throughout the evening. Friends and family will be able to purchase spectator tickets to the Finish Line Party in April, but availability will be very limited. Stay tuned for updates on party tickets and race details at rundisney.com/winedinerun.

Check into Chip and Co. often for training tips and advise for all of your running events! Feel free to send your questions to our “experienced” Disney runners!

Events and dates subject to change. All races are subject to age eligibility requirements and capacity limits Registration fees are nonrefundable. Offer elements, including but not limited to participating locations, menus, attractions and entertainment are subject to availability, and may change or be canceled without notice. Standard Epcot® theme park admission tickets will not allow Guests to attend the Finish Line Party. The number of tickets available is limited. Tickets are valid only during specific event dates and hours. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Florida law only permits the provisioning of alcohol products to persons 21 years of age or older, and Disney participates in Florida’s Responsible Vendor program and servers will verify age by requesting appropriate identification. Restrictions apply

Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend - Registration is Now Open!

Disney Bloggers Link Up Your Disney Articles – March 2011 Edition

By

Chip

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March 12, 2011

Hey Disney Bloggers! It’s that time again! Time for you to link up your Disney Articles.

Give your site some added exposure, a higher Google Page Rank, and just give people an opportunity to check out some of your best Disney articles.

Just use the Form below and tell us:

Title of your Disney Article
Your email (in case we need to contact you)
Link to your article

Just click submit and the article should show up on this page in a few seconds.

I will post a new page every month so be sure to check back and link your new articles with us!

*Please Link only Disney Articles.

Disney Bloggers Link Up Your Disney Articles – March 2011 Edition

Awesome 101: The Fireworks at Magic Kingdom and Epcot

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 12, 2011

Awesome 101: The Fireworks at Magic Kingdom and Epcot — Cinderella Castle during the Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular

One of the things that I think of with fondness when I think about Walt Disney World is the fireworks. I have grown to have a deep appreciation for the fireworks at both Magic Kingdom and at Epcot. I think the main reason for this was because for a long time I wouldn’t watch the fireworks. When they were about to show, I would find a shop somewhere to go inside, and avoid the loud noises and bright flashes of light. The reason for this is because, for some reason, my ears are sensitive to the big booms of the explosions, so much so that it really bothered me – the anticipation of a loud explosion perhaps more than anything.

Then one day we had the bright idea of just buying a cheap set of ear plugs, and my love of the fireworks shows was born!

I don’t know what you all thought of it, but I know that for myself, the Summer Fantastic! Fireworks Spectacular that they had last summer was an incredible fireworks show! As much as I love Wishes, being able to see all of the fireworks from both over Cinderella’s Castle and from around the park really was incredible. Add in the effects of having the pirates take over the Castle (for a while), and that fireworks show was one to remember for a long time to come.

One of the reasons that I really love seeing the fireworks shows is to be able to get some of those one of a kind photos that you can only get with fireworks. It takes a lot of patience, and a lot of pictures that really don’t turn out (at least for me), but I have been able to get some really good ones (at least I think they are!) Here are some of my favorites.

For me, what really makes the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot so much better than any other fireworks at any other theme park or state fair is the incredible music and story that goes along with the fireworks. If you haven’t experienced any of the fireworks shows of late, make sure you plan on watching them at least once on your next trip. For me, one thing that I’m really looking forward to is watching the fireworks from the Top of the World Lounge over at Bay Lake Towers in June! One goal I have with our next trip is to take a peek at some better photos of Illuminations. I have some shots of it, but none of them are really that good, so that gives me a good challenge for our next trip!

Where is your favorite place to watch fireworks?

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