Marvel’s The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes! Premieres Wednesday, October 20 on Disney XD

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September 20, 2010

“The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes!,” an all-new animated series featuring the best of the best in the Marvel Universe, premieres Wednesday, OCTOBER 20 (8:30 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney XD. Produced by Marvel Animation, the series stars the world’s greatest heroes — Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, The Hulk, Ant-Man/Giant Man and Wasp — who form the Avengers, a team assembled when the powers of a single hero are not enough to save the world.

Beginning Wednesday, September 22, Disney XD, DisneyXD.com/Avengers, Marvel.com, MarvelKids.com and Disney XD Mobile will roll out 20 micro-episodes introducing the team’s core members. Each five-and-half-minute episode focuses on the back story, allies and nemeses of the heroes before the Avengers were formed.

In the two-part series premiere, “The Breakout,” Iron Man, Hulk, Thor, Ant-Man and Wasp have defeated some of the most dangerous Super Villains on the planet. But when the Super Villain prison system mysteriously shuts down, chaos is unleashed on the world. Earth’s Mightiest Heroes must now band together as the Avengers to protect the planet from the threats that no single Super Hero could face alone. Their first task is to try and stop Graviton, a being whose power dwarfs anything ever seen. He’s after Nick Fury, but will destroy the world to get to him. Individually the heroes have no chance, but together they can make a difference.

The complete multiplatform rollout is:

Wednesday, September 22

Disney XD will air a special sneak peek of the first micro-series episode, “Iron Man is Born!,” at 8:30 p.m., ET/PT directly following premiere of the network’s newest series, “Pair of Kings.”

DisneyXD.com/Avengers, Marvel.com, MarvelKids.com and Disney XD Mobile will unveil a new micro-episode every day, for 20 days, leading up to the micro-episodes’ premiere on Disney XD. DisneyXD.com/Avengers will also feature a gallery of each of the Avengers and offer inside information about Kang, Loki and the rest of the “most wanted” Marvel Super Villains.

Tuesday, October 5

Select micro-episodes will be made available as a free preview on iTunes.

Monday, October 11

Disney XD will roll out all 20 micro-episodes during “Avengers Week” from Monday, October 11 to Friday, October 15, with four micro-episodes stacked each night at 8:30 p.m., ET/PT.

The complete micro-series becomes available on Disney XD on Demand on AT&T, Verizon, Charter and Cox.

Wednesday, October 20

The highly anticipated series premiere of “The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes!” airs with two back-to-back episodes from 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., ET/PT. The series also launches on DisneyXD.com/Avengers, Marvel.com and Marvelkids.com.

Thursday, October 21

Full episodes launch on iTunes, Xbox Live, Sony Playstation and Disney XD Mobile VOD.

Monday, October 25

The series becomes available on Disney XD on Demand on AT&T, Verizon, Charter and Cox.

Beginning with the “Iron Man” and “The Incredible Hulk” movies in 2008, the release of “The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes!” follows Marvel’s overall “Avengers Assemble” strategy, introducing the greatest heroes in the Marvel Universe through various content platforms. This includes the feature films “Iron Man 2” in May of 2010, “Thor” in May of 2011 and “Captain America: The First Avenger” in July of 2011, all building up to “Marvel Studios’ The Avengers” theatrical film in 2012. Disney XD, the single largest distributor of Marvel content around the world, currently showcases approximately 20 hours of Marvel series (including “The Spectacular Spider-Man,” “Fantastic Four” and “Iron Man”) each week.

Disney XD is a basic cable channel and multi-platform brand showcasing a compelling mix of live-action and animated programming for Kids age 6-14, hyper-targeting boys and their quest for discovery, accomplishment, sports, adventure and humor. Disney XD branded content spans television, online, mobile and VOD platforms. The programming includes series, movies and short-form, as well as sports-themed programming developed with ESPN. In the U.S., Disney XD is seen on a 24-hour, advertiser supported network that reaches over 77 million households via its basic cable affiliates. Disney XD channels are in the UK, France, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Poland, Greece, Turkey, Latin America and Japan.

Coming Soon Mickey’s Spooky Night

By

Chip

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September 20, 2010

Just in time for Halloween. Disney’s Songs and Story line is a special value series of classic tales and memorable melodies for your special someone. Enjoy Halloween themed songs from Mickey’s Spooky Night along with a narrated Halloween story animated with original character voices and authentic sound effects. Great gift item for any child!

This title will be released on October 5, 2010.

To learn more check out Amazon.com

Tinkerbell says turn off those lights!

By

Chip

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September 20, 2010

In a nationwide effort to reduce energy consumption, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and The Advertising Council launched a new series of public service announcements (PSAs) designed to inspire today’s youth and their parents with ways to establish positive energy efficiency practices.

Energy use is on the rise around the world. By 2030, global energy demand is expected to increase 50 percent above 2005 levels, with electricity demand alone in the U.S. projected to rise 29 percent over the same period. Families can help reduce the demand, by using less and becoming more energy efficient. According to a national online survey of tweens ages 8-12 released by the Ad Council, 87 percent say that saving energy is important and 65 percent believe that saving energy on a daily basis is not hard.

Developed by The Walt Disney Studios, the new PSAs continue Disney’s commitment to inspire environmental stewardship in youth. The television, outdoor and web PSAs featuring Tinker Bell are designed to educate 8-10 year olds on how to save energy and feature scenes from Disney’s all-new movie Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue releasing on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD, September 21. The PSAs direct audiences to www.energy.gov/kids where they can find fun, simple tips on energy efficient behaviors and learn about new technological advances to reduce energy consumption in the home.

“We are pleased to expand our energy efficiency campaign with these new PSAs developed in collaboration with the Department of Energy and The Walt Disney Studios,” said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. “These new PSAs, featuring Tinker Bell, will provide children with simple energy saving tips and inspire families to take action so we can become less energy dependent.”

DOE and the Ad Council first launched the Energy Efficiency PSA campaign in September 2008. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this week and will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media. To date, the campaign has received more than $63 million in donated media time and space.

Disney Food Confession – Noodles from the Food & Wine Festival

By

Chip

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September 20, 2010

NOSHING AROUND THE WORLD – Guests can sample food from more than 20 regions of the world in marketplaces around World Showcase at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Guest chefs, wine and beer experts and live entertainment add to the fun.
Like a fine wine that improves with age, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival celebrates 15 years Oct. 1-Nov. 14 with an unrivaled global tasting experience.
Where on the planet can foodies sample the cuisine, culture and entertainment of more than two dozen countries during a 1.3-mile stroll around a picturesque 40-acre lagoon? Only at Walt Disney World Resort, where more than 25 international marketplaces around the World Showcase promenade at Epcot invite guests to taste tapas-sized portions and sip wines, beers and spirits from six continents.
This year, Disney and celebrity chefs are teaming with winemakers and brew masters from around the world to commemorate 15 years of Delicious Discoveries. During the six-week festival, guests will discover:

Three new tasting marketplaces – Belgium, South Korea and Singapore – plus new menu offerings at popular returning marketplaces including Argentina, Chile, Poland, South Africa, Puerto Rico, Australia, U.S.A., Spain and others.
Celebrity chef appearances starring top culinarians like Warren Brown, Cat Cora, Todd English, Gale Gand, Robert Irvine, Art Smith, Andrew Zimmern and more.
Complimentary Marketplace Discovery Passport to be stamped at each international marketplace visited for the perfect scrapbook souvenir.
Daily wine seminars, bottle signings, author events and culinary demonstrations at the Festival Welcome Center.Eat to the Beat! concerts three times nightly at America Gardens Theatre.
Two Epcot restaurants grand opening just in time for the festival: Via Napoli authentic pizzeria at the Italy pavilion and La Hacienda de San Angel at the Mexico pavilion.

New Sips, Fresh Bites

Whether sampling steamed mussels with roasted garlic cream at the new Belgium marketplace or sipping the trendiest wines from South Africa and Chile, festival guests can make a day of grazing their way around the World Showcase promenade. Tapas-sized portions of regional specialties run $3-to-$8 each, and recommended wines and beers make perfect pairings at each marketplace. To make grazing simpler and more fun, guests can purchase a festival-themed mini-Disney Gift Card that can be loaded and reloaded at several park locations. The card comes attached to a band that can be worn conveniently on the wrist and used for purchases at park marketplaces, restaurants and shops.

Live regional entertainment includes music, acrobatics and improv performances along the promenade. Evening Eat to the Beat! concerts at America Gardens Theatre feature acts from many musical genres. Appearing for the first time on the Eat to the Beat! stage are: Sugar Ray, Air Supply, Howard Jones, 38 Special, Roger Hodgson (formerly of Supertramp,) Hanson and Rick Springfield. Kicking off the festival Oct. 1-3 is fan-favorite Taylor Dayne, and wrapping the event Nov. 12-14 is crowd-pleaser Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

Each fall, the festival attracts a diverse audience of more than 1 million guests ranging from wine connoisseurs and epicures to novices wishing to boost their culinary IQs. Special culinary programs showcase a lineup of renowned winemakers, guest chefs and speakers participating in elegant dinners, luncheons, seminars and wine schools.
Festival highlights include:

The Festival Welcome Center, with a Wine Bar, Authentic Taste Seminars, Authors Without Borders weekend conversations and more.
More than 270 chefs including Disney chefs and guest chefs from across the country conducting culinary demonstrations and hosting dinners and tasting events. Guest chefs on tap include Debbie Gold, Rock Harper, Jeff Henderson, Robin Miller, Jamie Deen and many other culinary stars.
New events that include 3-D Disney’s Dessert Discovery and a festival preview night, First Bites Opening Reception, on Sept. 30.
Popular returning events that include Celebrating Family and Friends in the Kitchen, Epcot Wine Schools, Mexico Tequila Tastings and Food and Wine Pairings.
The weekly Party for the Senses grand tasting event with tempting bites from eminent chefs, more than 50 wines and beers, and live entertainment presented by Cirque du Soleil.

Festival guests can enjoy fresh Epcot experiences including the latest Future World high-tech fun at Innoventions and the celebrated return of “Captain EO,” the classic musical 3-D production starring Michael Jackson in a rare big-screen performance. They also can go “under the sea” at The Seas with Nemo & Friends, “up in the air” at Soarin’ in The Land pavilion or “out of this world” at Mission: SPACE. In World Showcase, new and updated restaurants welcome guests at the Italy, Japan, Mexico and China pavilions.

Included with Epcot Admission

Authentic Taste seminars and Authors Without Borders programs with special book signings at the Festival Center, Eat to the Beat! concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.

Special Programming by Reservation
The Party for the Senses grand tasting events and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission. Guests can call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) for information and to make reservations for special events and programs. Festival details are available at www.disneyworld.com/foodandwine.

Photo Credit by Disney

Duffy the Disney Bear coming to Disney California Adventure

By

Chip

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September 20, 2010

This article comes to us from the LA Times.

A teddy bear more popular than Mickey Mouse at Disney theme parks in Japan will make his U.S. public debut at Disney California Adventure in Anaheim on Monday.

Duffy the Disney Bear has become something of a fan phenomenon at the Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea theme parks, where the walk-around character draws lines longer than the famous mouse and boasts his own website.

According to Duffy’s backstory, Minnie Mouse gave the teddy bear to Mickey Mouse before he set off on an around-the-world sailing trip. Duffy looks like an ordinary fuzzy teddy bear except for the “Hidden Mickey” shape in his face.

From a merchandise standpoint, Disney plans to position Duffy as a direct competitor to the popular Build-A-Bear franchise. Three DCA stores will sell stuffed Duffys and dress-up costumes. Duffy has been known to wear sailor’s outfits and baseball uniforms but never pants (much like Donald Duck).

Click here to read more.

A Disney Thanksgiving Tradition

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 19, 2010

The alarm goes off at 2 a.m. and I am up and excited right away. A smile on my face, a cup of coffee in my hand, I am grabbing last minute things to load into the van and we are on our way! It has become almost a ritual now. It feels like the beginning of Christmas and, for us, that is kind of what it is.

This is the first day of our annual family trip to Disney World. Every Thanksgiving our family gets together at the most magical place on Earth and we live together – all as a family again – for ten days. My husband, myself, and our three children ages 25, 19 and 17. This is my heaven on earth.

We started going to Disney World together in 2000 and we spend every Thanksgiving there now. We have made super budget trips where the smell of peanut butter lingered in our room for days on end. We have also gone with the free dinging plan where we ate until it hurt. Whether we are eating breakfast in the room and packing our lunches to take in backpacks, or eating at the fanciest restaurants in “the world” makes no difference to us. We are just ecstatic to be able to enjoy this time each year.

There is much to be said about pre-planning. I spend hours in this process before each trip with my notes, my latest guides and ideas of what we definitely don’t want to miss and what we would like to see new this time. Planning the trip is sometimes just as much fun as being there, with the adrenalin and high hopes invading every space of my body. Driving away in the pitch black of night, I realize that it will all be worth the effort in about 17 hours.

The Disney World area is breathtaking. Once we arrive it is like all our senses wake up and start taking notice. The sun seems brighter, the food tastes better, everyone is nicer, the grass is greener, the bushes are shaped like Disney characters for crying out loud. It is euphoric!

What a welcome time for all of us. Away from the stresses of life and into a comfy Disney-themed hotel room, we are home. For some, cramming five rather large people into one room for nine nights, with all the smelling of feet and sharing of one bathroom, might not sound heavenly. But for a mom who no longer gets to kiss her children every night and greet them with a hug every morning, it is a welcomed joy to behold.

To make our trips fresh and new each year, I always incorporate a new adventure into the trip. Be it an exciting new addition to the parks, a previously untried restaurant, a tour of a hotel we have not yet visited, it adds a little something extra to our wonderful holiday season.

On our first day we are always at Magic Kingdom and on our first night we can always be found celebrating our arrival with Christmas pageantry, warm sugar cookies and very short ride lines at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This really puts a smile on our faces and the love and joy of the holidays in our hearts.

The Osborne Spectacle of Dancing Lights is a magical family favorite. Millions of Christmas lights dance to music while we walk around in the snow sipping on our sweet, rich hot chocolate. I sniff the scent from my cup to add to my enjoyment of savoring the flavor and taking this memory in.

Growing my family Disney is what I always had in mind when I visited in my teenage years. Sharing hugs, smiles, fun and memories with my family is a blessing that I am so very thankful for. I treasure every second of it. Whether we are budgeting every penny or going all out with the dining plan we are enjoying life together and not taking one moment of it for granted. I relish these days with the grateful spirit that I have taken from these vacations exactly what Walt wanted people to take from them – to come to Disney World and be happy, then to take that happiness home and spread it to others.

Thank you, Walter Elias Disney. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Author : Brenda K

Brenda is now a member of the Chip Panel, an elite group of Disney Guest Bloggers featured on the Chip and Company site. If you love Disney and enjoy writing you should apply to the Chip Panel. Along with being immortalized on Chip and Company Website you will be entered in a drawing for a free $25 Disney Store Giveaway!

Disney Cast Members Raise $36K for Local Make-A-Wish Foundation Chapter

By

Chip

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September 19, 2010

Taking to the stage for charitable good, the Encore! Cast Choir and Orchestra hit an all-time high recently by raising $36,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida. The volunteer ensemble of nearly 500 Disney Cast Members put in more than 47,000 hours to produce Dream Our Dreams, A Musical Tribute to the Legacy of Disney. Proceeds from the August 6-8 shows hosted at Epcot World ShowPlace were given to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida this week.

“We really appreciate everyone who came to see and support our shows and help us collect a substantial gift for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida,” said Encore! producer Bruce Light. “This $36,000 donation sets a record for us and it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Walt Disney World Resort, Epcot, and our amazing Encore! Cast who volunteered their time to help us produce our most ambitious show to date.”

Encore! offers Cast Members an outlet for their creativity and a chance to showcase their talents while performing great music for worthy causes. The troupe, founded in 2002, has grown to include 275 singers, 90 instrumentalists, 50 dancers and a production team of 40. At least half of the group has jobs outside of entertainment and aren’t performers by trade. For all involved, it’s a labor of love that truly makes a difference for charities that benefit from it.

“We are thrilled and honored to be receiving such a generous donation from the Encore! Cast Choir and Orchestra,” said Tiffany Durr, development and event specialist for Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida. “We rely on groups like Encore! and fundraising events to help us achieve our mission of granting wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions in our local community. Through their hard work and passion, Encore! is helping us share the power of a wish and for that we are deeply appreciative and sincerely grateful.”

Since its inception in 2002, Encore! has donated the funds from its ticket sales to local charities, raising more than $150,000 to date. Beneficiaries are determined by group vote; Encore! has chosen the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts as their 2011 beneficiary. Past Encore! beneficiaries include United Arts of Central Florida, SPCA of Central Florida, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and A Gift For Teaching. To learn more, visit www.encorecentral.org.

A Disney Honeymoon Revisited

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 19, 2010

In less than twenty days, my husband and I will be embarking on a journey to the most magical place on Earth, to the world that makes all our worries and troubles disappear, to the place where even jaded and cynical grown-ups can find a bit of magic and happiness around every corner. We’re calling it the Ross Third Anniversary Disney World Extravaganza, because all great journeys must also have a great title.

This will mark our first visit to Disney World since our Disney honeymoon three years ago, and to say the least, we’re extremely excited. I keep randomly squealing as I surf Disney fan sites in preparation for our trip; my husband and cats seem a little dismayed by this, but I don’t care! Disney, here we come!

As I prepare for this year’s Extravaganza, I can’t help but think back to our magical honeymoon and all of the little things Disney did to make it out of this world. Even before our trip, Disney helped to get us in the mood, er, so to speak…. By using the Disney Honeymoon Registry, our family and friends were able to help design and pay for our honeymoon even before we left. We could add merchandise, accommodations, dining, and even experiences to our registry. The end result was a honeymoon-themed gift card that we could use on basically anything we chose!

Despite this very generous gift card from our family and friends, our Disney honeymoon was still on a budget, so we stayed at the value resort Pop Century to save a little extra cash. Just because this was a value resort did not diminish the stay or take away from the luxury and romance of our trip; after all, this is Disney we’re talking about! From the moment, we arrived we were immersed in the magic.

At check-in, we were given our “Just Married!” buttons and throughout the rest of the stay, Cast Members and other visitors alike were constantly congratulating us and making us feel special. Several Cast Members even pulled us aside for secret treats that I won’t unveil here; suffice it to say: a Disney treat is always amazing, but a Disney special occasion treat is absolutely incomparable.

Most of the magic of our Disney honeymoon was magic that anyone and everyone can enjoy: strolling along the Boardwalk at dusk, partaking in the International Food and Wine Festival, holding hands while walking through all of the incredible stores in Downtown Disney, sharing an order of chocolate-covered strawberries from Goofy’s Candy Company. Such moments were made only more special because of the occasion.

One of the most memorable experiences of Disney magic on our honeymoon was one of the last. On one of the final days of our trip, we returned to our hotel room to find balloons and a card from whom else? Minnie and Mickey! I can still remember the excitement and joy over such a simple touch. We still have our card and the long-deflated balloons, and as we pack our bags and organize our Extravaganza travel binder (yeah, I’m a little TOO excited sometimes), I can’t help but wonder what new magical and romantic touches await us on our next journey to the Most Magical Place on Earth.

Author: Katie Ross

Katie is now a member of the Chip Panel an elite group of Disney Guest Bloggers featured on the Chip and Company site. If you love Disney and enjoy writing you should apply to the Chip Panel..Along with being immortalized on Chip and Company Website you will be entered in a drawing for a free $25 Disney Store Giveaway!

Adventures by Disney Adds Egypt, Invites Families to Experience the World in 2011

By

Chip

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September 19, 2010

Adventures by Disney (www.AdventuresbyDisney.com) has introduced its 2011 itineraries and adds a new destination to its collection – Egypt: “Pyramids, Pharaohs & Ancient Treasures.”

Family-appealing vacations are a hallmark of Adventures by Disney. Egypt with its ancient and modern mysteries brings an exciting and exotic new dimension to the lineup in 2011.

“Adventures by Disney specifically designs each itinerary to entertain and enlighten every member of the family,” said Karl Holz, president of Adventures by Disney. “Whether discovering the beauty of the United States or traveling the furthest parts of the globe, such as Egypt, Adventures by Disney provides the perfect way to travel as a family.”

To the Pyramids – and Beyond

Picture arriving in Cairo and embarking on a privately guided tour of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities with its extensive trove of mummies and ancient artifacts. Families will then take an unforgettable excursion to Giza for an up-close view of the Great Pyramids and the fascinating Pharaoh’s Boat Museum. And what is a trip to Egypt without a camel-ride past the pyramids.

Journey to Southern Egypt with your fellow travelers and highly trained Adventure Guides on a three-day Nile River cruise and visit the riverside towns of Aswan and Luxor, as well as privately guided tours of temple ruins, including pharaohs Tutankhamen and Ramses VI.

Whether discovering how the ancient Egyptians created papyrus or learning how to write their family’s name in hieroglyphics, there is something for everyone regardless of age on this new itinerary, as well as the additional itineraries available through Adventures by Disney.

The Disney Difference

From snorkeling with sea turtles in the Galapagos to discovering Europe’s classic history, each itinerary is as matchless as its surroundings. Yet one aspect holds true for every trip: the special touches that are collectively called “the Disney difference” …

Adventure Guide: Part storyteller, ambassador, concierge and role model, the Adventures by Disney highly trained Adventure Guides are the friendly hosts and travel specialists who lead guests on every trip. With two guides assigned for every group (of up to 40 people), travelers receive individual attention to ensure a fun and enriching vacation.

Junior Adventurers: Young travelers are transformed into Junior Adventurers – seeing, hearing and tasting things that they might otherwise not have experienced. The immersive activities created just for kids allow young travelers to learn and have fun in places like museums that aren’t always as entertaining for the younger set. For example, at the Louvre in Paris, the Junior Adventurers play an Art Detective game throughout the museum with their Adventure Guides, while adults take a privately guided tour with an art historian. In addition, Adventure Guides are expert storytellers and are trained to create fun and unique, locally based experiences for the kids. On almost every departure, there is also a Junior Adventurers night, in which the kids have a special evening experience with their guides, while the adults get a quiet evening on their own at the resort.

Local Experts: An authentic Tuscan chef, a naturalist from Costa Rica, a Chinese tai chi master – these local experts share a passion; they live and breathe the local history and culture of their destination. They are an integral part of every Adventures by Disney vacation. They join guests to share their stories and provide an “insider’s” perspective to each destination.

VIP Access: Travelers vacationing with Adventures by Disney receive VIP experiences that are practically impossible to schedule on their own. Special entry to otherwise crowded sites, unique accommodations (such as castles in Ireland and Germany, a dude ranch in Yellowstone, and at the base of a live, active volcano in Costa Rica). Guests also get backstage access of celebrated performances such as “The Lion King” in London. These are just a few of the exceptional moments woven through each itinerary, promising expedited service and a broader knowledge of each destination.

Adventures by Disney 2011 destinations include 25 global itineraries across six continents:

Africa, Asia & Pacific

· Egypt (7 nights) – Egypt: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and the Nile

· Egypt (9 nights) – Egypt: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, the Nile and Sharm el Sheikh

· Enchanted China (10 nights) – China: Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai and Hong Kong

· Enchanted China (12 nights) – China: Beijing, Chengdu, Guilin, Xi’an, Shanghai and Hong Kong

· Safari to South Africa – South Africa: Cape Town, The Garden Route and Kapama Game Reserve

· Discovery Down Under – Australia: North Queensland, The Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock and Sydney

British Isles & Europe

· Cities of Knights and Lights – England and France: London and Paris

· The Emerald Isle – Ireland:Dublin, Killarney and Shannon

· Once Upon a Fairytale – Germany: Heidelberg, Waldeck, Rothenburg and Munich

· Alpine Magic – Italy and Switzerland: Lake Como, Zermatt and Lake Luzern

· Viva Italia – Italy:Rome, Tuscany and Venice

· Bella Italia – Central Italy: Sorrento and Florence

Latin America

· Path to Pura Vida – Costa Rica:San José, Tortuguero and Arenal National Parks

· Treasures of the Galapagos – Quito, Otavalo Valley and Galapagos Islands

· Sacred Valleys and Incan Cities – Peru: Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco and Lima

North America

· Spirit of America – Philadelphia, Pa., Washington, D.C. and Colonial Williamsburg, Va.

· Quest for the West – Wyoming: Jackson Hole, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

· Southwest Splendors – Arizona and Utah: Sedona, Grand Canyon and Moab

· Backstage Magic – Southern California: Hollywood and Disneyland Resort

· Taming the Last Frontier – Alaska: Fairbanks, Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks

· Rocky Trails and Mountie Tales – Montana and Canada: Glacier and Banff National Parks

Gateway and Signature Tours

In addition to the 21 core collection of itineraries, Adventures by Disney offers two specialty collections: the Signature Collection and the Gateway Collection. Featuring such extras as upgraded hotels, VIP amenities, special entertainment and additional, exclusive activities and enhanced elements on select trip components, the Signature Collection offers an even more extraordinary vacation.

Also, Adventures by Disney presents the Gateway Collection, the newest vacation option offering flexibility via expanded free time so there is more time to visit venues that interest a family most and is an affordable way to see some of the world’s most desirable locales. Travel to Italy or London and Paris with no more than 50 guests, stay in comfortable lodging, enjoy the service of two Disney-trained Adventure Guides, VIP access to things difficult to arrange, special fun for the kids and expanded free time.

Signature Collection

· Path to Pura Vida – Costa Rica Signature:San José, Arenal National Park, Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park

· Viva Italia – Italy Signature:Rome, Tuscany and Venice

Gateway Collection

· Gateway to Italy – Rome, Florence and Venice

· Gateway to London and Paris – London and Paris

Worldwide and on the Web

Just as Adventures by Disney creates family-friendly adventures with the child in mind, so, too, are online activities designed for kids. Junior Adventurers can get a taste of the authentic real-life experiences they will soon explore by means of destination-specific games, trivia, photos, downloadable coloring maps and countdown calendars (JuniorAdventurers.com).

Additionally, AdventuresbyDisney.com is designed to answer guests’ primary vacation questions. Unsure where to travel? The unique Trip Selector tool narrows down the ideal choices based on the family’s interests. Curious what to expect day-to-day? Travelers can reference the Frequently Asked Questions to find a plethora of information – everything from destination climate to children-friendly cuisine for each itinerary. Decide on a trip? The full E-brochure is available online for guests to e-mail and share with others planning the vacation. The website also features a condensed print version of each itinerary including dates and pricing ranges for easy hands-on reference.

About Adventures by Disney

As Disney Cruise Line revolutionized – and in some ways defined – the family cruise vacation, Adventures by Disney has recreated the way families think about vacationing together.

Launched in 2005, Adventures by Disney provides immersive, hassle-free and unforgettable guided family vacation experiences to destinations in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia. Families traveling with Adventures by Disney receive exceptional service while taking part in extraordinary experiences from Cape Town to Paris, Yellowstone to Costa Rica, the ruins of Pompeii to the ruins of Machu Picchu, the Great Barrier Reef to the Great Wall of China and more.

With Disney-trained Adventure Guides, engaging activities, VIP experiences and personal touches throughout, Adventures by Disney excites and delights every member of the family. Guests wanting more information about Adventures by Disney can visit AdventuresbyDisney.com, call 877/728-7282 or contact their travel agent.

The Disney Lesson I should have learned the first time!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 19, 2010

Here is another great Chip Panel submission from Amy, lifelong Disney fan and mother of 3 up incoming Disney fanatics. I am adding this to the category of Tips and Tricks. To see why you will have to read the article..lol

I have loved Disneyworld since I was first there in 1976. So when I had my twins, I couldn’t wait to take them to Disneyworld. I finally convinced my husband they were old enough when they were 3. It was going to be an exciting trip, our first big family vacation, the twins first trip to Disneyworld and our first on property stay.

I read books about taking kids to the parks, I made lists of what to see and do, and figured out where to meet their favorite characters. Every day at the parks, was a new adventure, we saw all their favorite characters, went on every ride in Fantasyland. Everything was perfect, until my son, who was not yet potty trained, wet his pants.

We were having so much fun, trying to do and see everything the kids would love, that we forgot to change his pull up. There we were in the middle of Fantasyland with no extra clothes for him and a soaking wet child. Luckily, we were able to find a pair of shorts in one of the shops for about $30. There was only one style, in one color, no other choices. I had never spent that much money on a pair of children’s shorts, but what could I do except hand over the credit card.

For the next couple of years, every time my son wore those shorts, my husband and I vowed we would never let that kind of thing happen again!

Fast forward 5 years, we were back at Disneyworld. I was so excited to be taking my younger son to Disneyworld at the exact same age his brother and sister were on their first trip. We were doing great, balancing 3 year old activities with 8 year old activities, everyone was having a blast. And then disaster struck, the pull up had let us down again!

Off we marched to the Emporium to buy the little guy some new pants. This time instead of shorts, we ended up with $40 sweatpants, but again, there was only one style and one color. It was all I could do to hand over the credit card again while my husband took the soggy one off to the restroom to change clothes, muttering very unDisney like words the whole time.

Luckily, the little guy is now potty trained and he is our youngest, so there won’t be any more of these unplanned souvenirs on our next trip to Disneyworld.

If you happen to be at Disneyworld with us in October, you might just spot the infamous shorts and sweatpants being worn again if for no other reason than to remind mom and dad to build regular bathroom breaks into the schedule! I’ll be the one sporting the extra large backpack filled with changes of clothes for all 3 kids just incase.

Author: Amy Voorhees

Amy is now a member of the Chip Panel an elite group of Disney Guest Bloggers featured on the Chip and Company site. If you love Disney and enjoy writing you should apply to the Chip Panel..Along with being immortalized on Chip and Company Website you will be entered in a drawing for a free $25 Disney Store Giveaway!

Disney Tips For Designing Your Halloween Jack-O-Lantern

By

Chip

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September 19, 2010

If you’re looking for ideas on how to design your Halloween jack-o-lantern, we’ve got 182 of them – and they all can be found on Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park.

It’s not the usual squares and rectangles for pumpkins at Walt Disney World Resort this season – they’re unique. Different designs and shapes include a hot dog pumpkin over Casey’s Corner and my favorite snowman pumpkin. There’s even a pumpkin featuring a spilled ice cream cone.

The Magic Kingdom Park hand-carved pumpkins on the buildings and in windows are redesigned with different designs and shapes, according to David Hartmann, an art director with Walt Disney Entertainment. Disney’s Event and Decorating Support then took David’s sketches and made them real. Check out some of David’s best in a quick video.

If you’re carving your own jack-o-lantern in the next few days, here’s some advice from the people who make Main Street, U.S.A. so unique this time of year:

Pick your pumpkin – Before you buy, put your potential pumpkin on the floor or ground and make sure it sits straight. If you can “see” where the face should go, it’s the right pumpkin for you.
Start sketching on paper – Once you start cutting into the pumpkin, it’s too late to go back. First, draw your design on a piece of paper (grocery bag, old wrapping paper, newspaper) the same size as your pumpkin. Once you’ve got your design just how you want it, you’re ready to move the design to your pumpkin. Disney’s Event and Decorating Support used an overhead projector and a black marker, but you can just as easily use a toothpick or fork. Hold your pattern to the pumpkin and poke a tiny hole through the paper every half-inch or so. When you take the paper away, you’ll have a dotted outline to follow.
Carve the lid at an angle – If you cut up-and-down around the pumpkin’s stem, your cap could fall through. Don’t worry if you don’t carve a perfect circle. That will actually help you find the “right” way to put the lid back on.
Skip the candle – All of the pumpkins along Main Street, U.S.A use LEDs (light-emitting diodes). Much safer than an open flame, LEDs don’t get hot. The also last longer than a candle and won’t blow out in the wind. New LEDs even flicker like a real flame.

Downtown Disney’s La Nouba Presents Fantastic Offer to Florida Residents Aug. 17–Oct. 23

By

Chip

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September 19, 2010

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil is pleased to announce a special $50 ticket price for Florida residents. This offer is available for performances August 17 – October 23 on category 2 seats (limit 6).

This authentic Cirque du Soleil production has added two acts inspired by the playfulness of youth. Last January a juggling act was added in place of the chair balancing act. With the help of The Green Bird, the Juggler throws balls, hoops and clubs in the air in unprecedented numbers at amazing speeds. In July the opening act was redesigned to feature the joy and technicality of skipping ropes in place of the German Wheel act. An exciting discipline for the house troupe, this act gives way to vibrant dance, acrobatics and a steady stream of solo, duo and group jumps and formations. Our two featured Skippers combine artful moves, exceptional agility and impressive speed that far exceed child’s play.

La Nouba is an unforgettable journey through our universe – at once threatening and exhilarating, frightening and familiar. La Nouba is the story of all stories, the site of all mysteries, where dreams and nightmares sleep side by side. La Nouba is memory, individual and universal. It beckons to us, challenges us to uncover passions we thought we’d lost long ago. Here, anything is possible.

TICKET INFORMATION

Florida residents can purchase $50 tickets (plus tax for adults and children) for performances August 17 – October 23. These are for Category 2 seats (limit 6). Tickets are available online at cirquedusoleil.com/lanouba, by phone at (407)939-7328, or at the box office located on the plaza level of the theater. For more information and to receive news alerts and priority sale details, visit facebook.com/lanouba. Group discounts are available by calling (702) 352-0197.

BOUTIQUE DISCOUNT

Florida residents will also receive a 15% discount in our newly renovated boutique located on the plaza level of the theater. This discount cannot be combined with sale or promotional merchandise. No ticket purchase is necessary. A valid Florida ID is required.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Tuesdays through Saturdays at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. The theater is dark Sundays, Mondays and select times throughout the year.

La Nouba is performed exclusively at Downtown Disney® West Side at Walt Disney World® Resort.