Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Ride will Pay Tribute to Military Service Members and Veterans
The Walt Disney Company has a long history of celebrating America’s military service, dating back to founders Walt and Roy O. Disney’s service in World War I. This tradition continues with the upcoming opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World Resort on June 28th!
Remember Tiana’s dad, James, from “The Princess and the Frog”? Turns out, he’s a war hero! The Imagineering crew took this detail and ran with it, adding more to James’ story to honor veterans. They teamed up with the Disney animators to flesh out James’ background.
“We looked for inspiration for how we could best expand on his backstory in a way that honored the military families who visit our parks,” said Ted. “In creating these photos for the attraction, we were inspired by real photos of soldiers who served during WWI to ensure we got it right.”
Charita Carter, who leads the project and comes from a military family herself, thinks this tribute is awesome. “Being raised by military folks is both amazing and tough,” Carter says. “We snuck a little tribute into the ride to honor those families. In the story, you’ll see how proud Tiana is of her dad’s service, just like so many families are proud of their own heroes. My family sure is!”
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is scheduled to open in Magic Kingdom park at Walt Disney World Resort on June 28, 2024. We can’t wait!
Fantasmic Returns Tomorrow to Disneyland with 2 Performances Daily
Disneyland is thrilled to announce the grand return of Fantasmic!, its longest-running nighttime extravaganza, to the Rivers of America tomorrow, May 24, 2024! Get ready for a wave of nostalgia with all the beloved elements you remember, plus some exciting new twists.
The show will be bursting with new special effects, making the battle between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent even more epic. And there’s more! The iconic Peter Pan scene gets a delightful upgrade with the arrival of the Lost Boys, joining Peter Pan and Wendy in their swashbuckling duel with Captain Hook. Set sail for an unforgettable adventure filled with dazzling pyrotechnics, captivating storytelling, and everyone’s favorite Disney characters!
“Fantasmic!” is an emotional extravaganza with Disney-animated story scenes, enchanting and captivating audiences of all ages with a brilliant display of colors, choreographed to an exciting musical score. In this nighttime spectacular, Mickey Mouse faces down menacing villains using the power of his imagination. Along the way, memorable moments from beloved stories like “Fantasia,” “The Little Mermaid” and “The Lion King” come to life with state-of-the-art projections alongside thrilling live performances and character appearances. Dazzling rays of light, sparkling pyrotechnics and iridescent mist effects enhance the epic atmosphere for a stunning spectacle.
Fun Facts:
When it originally opened in 1992, “Fantasmic!” was the first nighttime spectacular at a Disney park to leverage new technology to combine an outdoor spectacular and stage show while also including two sailing vessels, the Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia.
In the reimagined battle scene between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent, Mickey gathers all his magical powers, creating colorful swirls of light as sparkling pyrotechnics bolt from his fingers. Cloaked in her dark gown with her powerful scepter in hand, Maleficent ascends to a height of 35 feet as she appears to ignite the Rivers of America in flames.
“Fantasmic!” brings back the iconic “Peter Pan” scene and introduces The Lost Boys as they join Peter Pan and Wendy to battle Captain Hook on a pirate ship that sails into view on the Rivers of America. They execute a stunning series of spectacular duels and falls during this swashbuckling sequence.
Each night of the show, more than 100 cast and crew members bring “Fantasmic!” to life for the 25-minute show.
In the show, sequences from some of the most memorable Disney films are projected on three giant mist screens, measuring 60 feet wide by 30 feet tall to bring iconic scenes to life on the Rivers of America.
The dazzling water effects include 21 fountains that appear to dance along to the music and six “whale tails” that shoot water high in the air towards the audience during dramatic moments.
During key show moments, a pair of lighting towers dramatically rise from underground to reach a height of 40 feet in less than a minute!
Guests can view “Fantasmic!” in select standby viewing areas along Rivers of America and may begin queuing no earlier than two hours before showtime.
Dining Packages will be available at the following locations for both the first and second shows:
Blue Bayou Fantasmic! Lunch Dining Package
Blue Bayou Fantasmic! Dinner Dining Package
River Belle Terrace Fantasmic! Brunch Standard Dining Package
River Belle Terrace Fantasmic! Dinner Standard Dining Package
River Belle Terrace Fantasmic! Premium Dinner Dining Package (first show only)
Fantasmic! Dining Package at Rancho del Zocalo
Advanced Dining Package reservations can be made up to 60 days before a Guest’s visit and is highly recommended. Same-day reservations may also be available, and both types of reservations are limited and subject to availability.
Ready to experience Fantasmic once again at Disneyland? Contact me today to start planning your next visit! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
Beetlejuice Returns for Twice the Mayhem in Long-Awaited Sequel
The ghost with the most is back in the highly anticipated sequel, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” reuniting visionary director Tim Burton and iconic star Michael Keaton. The star-studded cast also includes Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, and Jenna Ortega as Lydia’s teenage daughter.
Set in Winter River, the Deetz family, now spanning three generations, returns to their haunted home, where Lydia’s daughter accidentally opens a portal to the afterlife. With chaos brewing in both the living and spirit worlds, it’s only a matter of time before Beetlejuice is summoned to unleash his signature brand of mayhem.
Under the direction of Tim Burton, known for his unique gothic aesthetic, the sequel promises to be a visually stunning and wildly entertaining spectacle. With a screenplay by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar, based on characters created by Michael McDowell & Larry Wilson, the film will explore the complexities of family dynamics and the afterlife with Burton’s signature dark humor.
A Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” will be released exclusively in theaters and IMAX on September 6th, 2024, in the U.S., and internationally beginning September 4th, 2024.
The trailers, on the other hand, offer a more in-depth look at the film’s storyline and characters. We see the return of Lydia Deetz, now a mother, grappling with the challenges of raising a teenage daughter while still dealing with the mischievous ghost with the most. The trailers also introduce new characters, including a mysterious figure played by Jenna Ortega, who seems to have a connection to the afterlife.
With its signature blend of humor, horror, and heart, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” promises to be a wild ride for fans of the original and newcomers alike. The new posters and trailers have only amplified the excitement, leaving us eagerly counting down the days until we can once again say his name three times and unleash the mayhem.
We have yet another Halloween Horror Nights house update to share with you! The official Halloween Horror Nights social media feeds have unveiled the theme for house number 4 for this year: Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America.
This marks the fifth house announced so far this season, with all houses so far being original themes. The Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America house is described as follows: ¡Ten cuídado! With La Muerte as your guide, you’ll be asking for piedad from these three terrifying monsters: the blood-sucking Tlahuelpuchi, owl-faced witch La Lechuza and bone-ripping El Silbón.
Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America joins the already announced Major Sweets Candy Factory, Slaughter Sinema 2, The Museum: Deadly Exhibits, and Goblin’s Feast houses that were already announced. Halloween Horror Nights will run on select nights from August 30th through November 3rd, and single-night tickets, RIP tours, and express passes are already on sale. Stay tuned to the Chip and Co socials and website for more updates as we continue to count down to the most terrifying event of the year!
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!
Stay Hydrated in Style with the New Mickey and Minnie Water Bottles!
Beat the Florida heat and add some Disney magic to your day with the latest must-have merchandise: Mickey and Minnie Water Bottles! These stylish and functional bottles are perfect for park adventures, keeping you hydrated while showcasing your love for the iconic duo.
Priced at $29.99 at Epcot, these water bottles are a great souvenir to commemorate your Disney vacation. But here’s a secret tip: snag them online at the Disney Store for a special price of just $19.98!
Available in two vibrant colors, these stainless steel bottles are built to last. The blue bottle features an all-over pattern of Mickey Mouse himself alongside the classic Walt Disney World logo in a cheerful yellow. The red bottle boasts a charming design of Minnie Mouse with the Walt Disney World logo in a crisp white. Both bottles hold a generous amount of liquid, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day.
The coolest feature? Each Mickey and Minnie Water Bottle comes equipped with a Mickey icon carabiner attached to the lid! This handy clip allows you to easily attach the bottle to your backpack or stroller, keeping it within reach for those on-the-go moments.
So don’t wait, quench your thirst and add a touch of Disney flair to your day with the new Mickey and Minnie Water Bottles!
Match Point Style: The Disney x Fossil Tennis Collection Aces Your Look!
Calling all Disney fans and fashion lovers! Prepare to have your heart (and wardrobe) stolen by the adorable Disney x Fossil Tennis Collection. This playful collaboration brings iconic Mickey Mouse to the court, offering a range of accessories that are both stylish and whimsical.
The centerpiece of the collection is the limited-edition Mickey Mouse Tennis Watch. This timepiece features Mickey sporting a classic tennis outfit, playfully displayed on the face of a Fossil Heritage Watch. It’s a perfect way to show your love for Disney and timeless design.
The collection doesn’t stop at watches. Get ready to tote Disney energy with the spacious Mickey Mouse Tennis ToteBag. Crafted from a combination of rich leather and cotton canvas, features a charming screen-printed design of Mickey and Minnie ready for a fun tennis match. It’s ideal for carrying all your essentials, whether you’re hitting the shops or cheering on your favorite player.
If you prefer a more practical way to carry your essentials, the Mickey and Minnie Tennis Wristletis the perfect accessory for any a tennis match.
For a more compact option, the collection also includes a cuteMickey Mouse Tennis Mini Crossbody. This bag is perfect for days when you want to travel light, but still maintain an adorable Disney-inspired look. You can also complete the look with thematching wallet!
Looking to add some subtle Disney flair to your outfit? The collection also features a MickeyMouseTennis Necklace and Bracelet adorned with yellow and green pavé crystals. These sparkling pieces are a delightful way to incorporate a touch of Disney magic into your everyday style.
The Disney x Fossil Tennis Collection is a must-have for any Disney enthusiast or fashionista. With its charming designs and high-quality craftsmanship, this collection is sure to be a winner. But hurry, as these limited-edition pieces are bound to disappear faster than a winning backhand!
Head over to Fossil today to shop the collection and score your own piece of Disney magic!
This Lion King Ear Headband at Animal Kingdom Is the Perfect Park Accessory!
Get ready to roar with excitement because the Disney Store and Animal Kingdom have the perfect accessory to unleash your inner Simba this summer: The Lion King Ear Headband! For just $39.99, you can add a touch of timeless Disney magic to any outfit.
Channel the spirit of the Pride Lands with these adorable padded mouse ears, featuring a playful print of Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, Zazu, and the iconic “Hakuna Matata” phrase. A bright yellow beaded bow adds a touch of sunshine, while the comfy padded navy blue simulated leather headband ensures you can adventure through the park in complete comfort.
So head over to the Disney Store online and snag your pair today! Remember, no worries for the rest of your days, just Hakuna Matata vibes and endless summer fun!
This summer, the sun, sand, and surf aren’t just at the beach—they’re also at Disney Springs! Dive into the season with a delightful beach-themed photo opportunity at the PhotoPass Portrait Studio, nestled between the Marketplace Co-Op and the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., this studio is your gateway to capturing those perfect summer memories, Disney style!
As you step into the studio, you’ll find yourself on a faux sandy floor that leads into a vibrant beachscape. Behind you, fluffy white clouds hover over a serene ocean backdrop, setting a perfect summery scene. But the real centerpiece? A detailed sand sculpture of Cinderella Castle, complete with toy shovels, pails, and colorful inflatable beach balls. This isn’t just any day at the beach—it’s a Disney beach day!
The scene is sprinkled with delightful Disney touches, including a large Minnie Mouse-inspired pool ring and more rings perched on a tall white lifeguard chair, which is also adorned with Mickey Mouse beach balls. Below the chair, a Stitch towel and a towel marked 2024 add to the fun, hinting at the magic of upcoming Disney celebrations.
Look closer, and you’ll find even more whimsical details. A poster for Mickey’s Surf-O-Rama showcases Mickey himself catching a radical wave on a surfboard. Beside it, a Stitch plush cozily sits atop a cooler decked out with themed surfing stickers, including a nostalgic nod to Donald Duck with a “Surf 34” sticker, commemorating the year of his debut.
This picture-perfect setup is framed by lush ferns and palm trees, cleverly designed to conceal the regular studio walls and transport you to a magical Disney beach. Whether you’re adding a new shot to your PhotoPass account or downloading it later with Memory Maker, these photos are sure to be a standout part of your summer.
Will you be stopping by to strike a pose on this enchanting beach? Share your thoughts and let us know!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
Get ready to blast back to the ’80s at Universal Orlando Resort! Universal Studios Florida is opening the doors to its much-anticipated Summer Tribute Store tomorrow, May 24 with Annual Passholders getting an exclusive sneak peek today! The latest store comes on the heels of an incredibly successful Mardi Gras-themed tribute store.
Located in the Hollywood area of Universal Studios across from the 5&10, this year’s Summer Tribute Store has transformed into “The Tribute Store Plaza,” a delightfully nostalgic 1980s shopping mall. Inside, you’ll find three immersive “mega” rooms each offering a unique throwback experience: the Mega Video Rental, where the shelves are stocked with VHS classics; the retro Mega Castle Arcade, filled with the beeps and buzzes of vintage arcade games; and the majestic Tribute Theatre, echoing the grand movie palaces of yesteryears.
As you explore, immerse yourself in a space brimming with special props, interactive photo ops, and countless Easter eggs celebrating iconic films like Ghostbusters, Back to the Future, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, Jaws, and Shrek. Each nook and cranny of the store is designed to evoke memories and create new ones, perfect for fans eager to relive these timeless stories.
The Tribute Store isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s also a treasure trove of collectibles and apparel. Dive into a colorful new Shrek collection, gear up with E.T. inspired outdoor accessories, grab ghostly goods from Ghostbusters, and deck out your home with nautical pieces from Jaws. And there’s more on the horizon: later this summer, the store will feature interactive bubble wands inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls, Illumination’s Minions, and Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World. These magical wands will interact not only with each other but also with elements of the upcoming Universal Mega Movie Parade, set to debut on July 3.
Today, Annual Passholders have the exclusive opportunity to step through the doors of this retro wonderland. Starting tomorrow, May 24, all guests are invited to join in the fun and explore this limited-time engagement. Whether you’re a film buff, a lover of all things ’80s, or just in search of some unique merchandise, the Summer Tribute Store at Universal Studios Florida is your gateway to an unforgettable summer filled with movie magic, epic memories, and can’t-miss merchandise. Don’t miss out on this spectacular tribute to the golden age of cinema—step into the story and experience the excitement firsthand!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
Out Now! Official Trailer Revealed for Descendants: The Rise Of Red
Get ready for a new chapter in the beloved “Descendants” saga! The official trailer for “Descendants: The Rise of Red” has just dropped on “Good Morning America” and Disney+, giving fans a thrilling glimpse into the next installment of the hit franchise. The music-driven Disney Original movie will premiere exclusively on Disney+ on July 12th, with a special encore on Disney Channel on August 9th.
This time, the story takes an unexpected turn as former Villain Kid Uma, now the headmistress of Auradon Prep, invites Red, the rebellious daughter of the Queen of Hearts from Wonderland, to join the school. When the Queen of Hearts stages a coup against Auradon, Red and Cinderella’s daughter Chloe team up to travel back in time and prevent the event that led Red’s mother down her villainous path.
The movie boasts a star-studded cast including Brandy, Rita Ora, Kylie Cantrall, and Malia Baker, along with seven new original songs and reprises of fan favorites. With exciting musical numbers, stunning costumes, and a captivating storyline, “Descendants: The Rise of Red” promises to be a must-watch for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.
We have some great news for Walt Disney World guests—shipping your favorite Disney treasures home has just become easier! Disney Springs has recently welcomed a new addition, a UPS “Guest Shipping Station,” specifically designed to help guests send their purchases back home or to loved ones without any hassle.
Located strategically near the beloved store Once Upon A Toy in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs, this new UPS station offers a straightforward solution for managing the goodies you’ve accumulated during your magical vacation. To find it, simply follow the signs in the walkway that direct you to the right of Once Upon A Toy. It’s hard to miss!
Though compact, featuring just two registers, the UPS Guest Shipping Station is already proving to be a hit among Disney Springs shoppers. Its popularity doesn’t seem to affect its availability, however, as it conveniently remains open late, ensuring that even last-minute shoppers can drop off their packages.
As someone who has experienced the shock of how expensive the bag overage fees can be at the airport, the convenience of being able to ship items home right from Disney Springs is a big win for all Disney World guests. Happy shopping!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom skyline is set to transform with the debut of the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort in December 2024. This new addition will bolster the resort’s room offerings with 268 Disney Vacation Club (DVC) rooms, enhancing its iconic South Pacific theme. We now have more details about this new tower thanks to a recent article published in Forbes.
Since its opening in 1971, the Polynesian Village Resort has evolved, currently featuring 484 non-timeshare rooms and 380 DVC accommodations, including exclusive overwater bungalows. The new Island Tower will add 268 villas to the resort, allowing existing DVC members at the Polynesian Villas & Bungalows to use their points without purchasing a new contract.
Designed to echo the rich heritage of Polynesian culture, the 10-story Island Tower will house a diverse range of accommodations from deluxe studios to two-bedroom penthouse villas. Each room is crafted to offer spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom across the Seven Seas Lagoon, with interior designs that pay homage to Polynesian storytelling and environmental sustainability.
Highlights of the tower include an art-filled lobby featuring sculptures from recycled materials and chandeliers of living moss, celebrating the elements of water, earth, wind, and fire. The artwork also subtly nods to Disney stories, including ‘Moana’ and works by Disney Legend Mary Blair, created by contemporary Polynesian artists.
Sustainability is at the core of the Island Tower’s construction, aligning with Disney’s 2030 environmental goals such as achieving net zero emissions, zero waste to landfill, and 100% zero-carbon electricity. Innovative building techniques like off-site prefabrication and the installation of the first all-electric kitchen at a Walt Disney World resort are expected to reduce energy usage by approximately 30%.
Are you excited for the new tower? Leave us a comment to let us know!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
