New Star Wars May the 4th 2024 Collection Coming to Disney Parks!
This month we are marching to May 4 with a sneak peek of the new Star Wars May the 4th Be With You 2024 Collection coming to Walt Disney World, Disneyland and the Disney Store very soon!
Some of these products will be exclusive to the parks like the Stormtrooper helmet bucket with others coming as early as April 3 to leave plenty of time to get ready for the big day! Take a look:
Let’s start with the tees, home dรฉcor, and more, featuring the charming and whimsical art of Will Gay that will be available at Disney Parks on April 3 and Disney Store on April 8.ย Can’t wait to see more of these products!
Get ready to celebrate Star Wars Day with this retro inspired collection coming to the Disney Store on April 4 and Disney Parks on May 4. It will include a t-shirt, sweatshirt, baseball cap and stainless steel water bottle!
Show your love of Episode I and its beloved baddie with this Darth Maul-focused collection, featuring tees, hoodies, lightsaber collectibles, limited-edition items, and more. You will be able to get this collection on Mat 4 at theย DisneyStore.com, Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
Live your best Darth Maul life with this amazing limited-edition collectible lightsaber presented in a wooden box with lighting effects. It even plays a segment of the classic โDuel of the Fates!โ The double hilt also features sound effects and illuminates red when you attach two Legacy Lightsaber Blades, sold separately.ย
You will be able to get it online at the Disney Store, as well as, Walt Disney World and Disneyland on May 4.
SALVAGED STORMTROOPER HELMET BUCKET
Finally, this Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket that has been recycled is perfect to use to hold your favorite snacks while watching Star Wars!
You can find it at Disneyland Resort on May 4th and can choose to get it with popcorn, french fries or Galma garlic puffs depending on the location you get it at. The bucket will also be available at Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World in May.
New Toy Story Alien Sequin Loungefly Collection Coming Soon!
Oooooohh! A new out of this world Toy Story Alien Sequin Loungefly Collection is coming soon! You will be eternally grateful to have these products in your wardrobe, they will add a fun and sparkly touch to any outfit all year long and allow you to keep your belongings safe on all your galactic travels.
The backpack features a green alien on the front with embroidered facial features and 3D pointy ears and antenna. The rest of the front and sides are covered in blue sequins forming the iconic alien’s space suit with the Pizza Planet logo.
Turn it around and you will find three green aliens and their catchphrase “Oooooohh!” above them.
The matching wallet features a green alien on the front with 3D ears and antenna looking adorable and blue sequins with the Pizza Planet logo on the back. Inside, four slots for holding cards accompany a clear slot for ID.
New Bambi Sunflower Loungefly Collection Coming Soon!
A new Bambi Sunflower Loungefly Collection is coming soon just in time for this Spring! You can choose between a backpack, crossbody bag or wallet that will make the perfect accessory for this season.
A big sunflower takes over the front zipper pocket showing up Flower in the center and Miss Bunny, Bambi and Thumper peeking through the top. The rest of the backpack features an all over pattern of sunflowers and butterflies plus adjustable black and white plaid straps.
A bright yellow sunflower takes shape on the bag’s flap, underneath you will find Miss Bunny, Bambi and Thumper surrounded by more beautiful flowers that continue to the back where Flower is waiting for you. The strap features the same black and white pattern as the backpack with the addition of two sunflowers at each end.
Finally, the collection also has a matching wallet with Bambi and Thumper on one side hiding between sunflowers and Thumper and Miss Bunny on the other. Open the wallet to reveal four slots for holding cards and a clear slot for ID.
Disney fans, get ready for an exciting glimpse into the future of Disney parks! In an all new video posted to YouTube by the New Orleans Book Festival, Walt Disney Imagineering provides a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the upcoming attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. This new ride is set to replace Splash Mountain at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
The 40+ minute long video features a panel that includes Imagineers Charita Carter and Carmen Smith, along with “honorary Imagineer” Stella Chase, as they delve into the process of bringing Princess Tiana’s world to life. Walt Disney Imagineering is known for its innovative storytelling and immersive experiences, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure promises to be no exception.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is scheduled to open in the Magic Kingdom park at Walt Disney World Resort in Summer 2024 and at Disneyland Park in 2024, with the specific season yet to be announced. You can learn more about what it took to bring the world of Tiana to life in the video below.
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!
Yee-haw! Andyโs backyard welcomes more toys at Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land at Disneyโs Hollywood Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. A unique collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney World Food & Beverage, this rootinโ tootinโ table service restaurant greets guests as Andyโs honorary toys and features barbecue-inspired comfort food served family-style. (Kent Phillips, Photographer)
Get ready to tip your cowboy hat and celebrate! Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is turning one year old today! This themed dining experience invites guests to step into Andy’s backyard and immerse themselves in the playful world of his toys, all while enjoying some delicious barbecue.
At Roundup Rodeo BBQ, guests are surrounded by Andy’s imaginative rodeo, featuring western towns, train station playsets, and even a larger-than-life Jessie riding on the back of a Trixie pull toy. You’ll also spot Bo Peep and her sheep getting ready for some rodeo action. It’s a feast for the eyes and the imagination!
But what’s a celebration without some mouth-watering grub? This family-style BBQ joint serves up a delicious platter of house-smoked delights. Get ready to dig into Evil Dr. Smoked Ribs, Buttercup’s Beef Brisket, and the quirky “There’s a Sausage in my Boot” Fire-Grilled Pork Sausage. And for those looking for something different, there’s Trixie’s Plant-Based Trio, featuring tasty options like Combat Carloflower and Rip Roarin’ Rib Chop. Don’t forget to save room for some tasty sides and desserts!
To commemorate this special occasion, Disney has released the recipe for their famous cheddar biscuits, which have been a hit with over 1 million guests in the past year. These flaky biscuits are packed with cheese and topped with Sweet Pepper Jelly for the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Here is the full recipe:
THE PROSPECTORโS HOMEMADE CHEDDAR BISCUITS WITH SWEET PEPPER JELLY
Roundup Rodeo BBQ
Disneyโs Hollywood Studios
Makes 12 Biscuits
SWEET PEPPER JELLY
3 large red bell peppers, diced
1/2 cup diced Spanish onion
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 cup sugar, divided
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
2 teaspoons pectin
CHEDDAR BISCUITS
1 cup unsalted butter, frozen
1 1/2 cups bread flour
1 1/2 cups cake flour
3 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/3 cups buttermilk
2 cups shredded yellow cheddar cheese
1/2 cup clarified butter, warmed
Sea salt, to taste
FOR SWEET PEPPER JELLY:
Purรฉe red bell pepper and onion in food processor until smooth.
Bring purรฉed pepper mix, red pepper flakes, vinegar, 3/4 cup sugar, and salt to boil in medium saucepan. Reduce heat to simmer and continue simmering, stirring occasionally with rubber spatula, for 10-15 minutes, until reduced by slightly less than 1/3.
Combine pectin and remaining 1/4 cup sugar in small bowl. Add to simmering pepper mix. Stir constantly for 5 minutes until jelly thickens.
Pour into heatproof bowl to cool. Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
Pepper jelly can made ahead and stored in the refrigerator up to 7 days.
FOR CHEDDAR BISCUITS:
Preheat oven to 375ยฐF. Line the baking sheet with parchment and set aside.ย
Grate frozen butter using a food processor with a shredding disk or cheese grater. Set aside.ย
Whisk bread flour, cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a large mixing bowl. Add frozen shredded butter and whisk until butter is evenly distributed.ย
Add buttermilk and shredded cheese and stir with a spoon until soft dough forms.ย
Transfer dough to a floured surface and roll into 1/2-inch thick rectangle.
Fold dough into thirds and roll to flatten slightly. Repeat 3 times. Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness.
Cut into circles using a 3-inch round biscuit cutter. Place on a prepared baking pan.ย
Bake for 14-15 minutes, until the tops are golden and the bottom of the biscuits begin to brown.ย
Remove from oven and brush with warm clarified butter and sprinkle the desired amount of sea salt on top.ย
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!
The Neverending Story Getting Revived with New Film Series
“The Neverending Story,” the cherished fantasy novel by the late German author Michael Ende, known for its iconic 1984 film adaptation, is set for a grand return to the silver screen! Michael Ende Productions and See-Saw Films have joined forces in a new partnership to revive the enchanting world of Fantastica through a series of live-action films.
First released in 1979, “The Neverending Story” quickly became a bestseller in Germany and was translated into 45 languages, captivating readers worldwide with millions of copies sold. At its heart lies the tale of Bastian Balthasar Bux, a shy yet imaginative child who stumbles upon the extraordinary book titled “The Neverending Story” while fleeing from bullies. This magical book chronicles the epic journey of Atrรฉyu, a brave hero tasked with saving the enchanting realm of Fantasticaโa land teeming with dragons, giants, majestic kingdoms, and treacherous swampsโand its sovereign, the Childlike Empress, from the destructive force known as “The Nothing.”
Adapted from the first half of the original novel, this cinematic gem was succeeded by a 1990 sequel titled “The NeverEnding Story II: The Next Chapter,”featuring almost an entirely new cast. Following this sequel, a third installment arrived in 1994, with a brand new plot. Are you excited for this revival? Let us know in the comments below!
Rev Up for the 4th Annual Autism Awareness Car & Truck Show
The Promenade at Sunset Walk is gearing up for its 4th Annual Autism Awareness Car & Truck Show on Saturday, April 13th, starting at 3 pm EDT. This exciting event, presented by the Margaritaville Residences – Orlando and Embassy Suites by Hilton – Sunset Walk Orlando, benefits the Autism Society of Greater Orlando, making it a perfect opportunity for car enthusiasts and community members to come together for a day of fun and philanthropy.
For those looking to show off their prized vehicles, the entry fee is $30, with VIP parking options available. Spectators can enjoy the show for free, with plenty of parking and no admission fee. The event will feature Top 11 Trophy Awards in categories like Best “Autism Awareness” Theme, Best of Show, and Best Classic, among others. There will also be a 50/50 cash raffle and a driver/spectator raffle, adding to the excitement of the day.
In the weeks leading up to the car show, Lumber Jack’s Axe House at the Promenade is hosting a special axe-throwing contest from March 22 through April 13. For a $10 donation, participants can try their luck at hitting five targets, with prizes ranging from a free throwing session to a $1,000 cash prize. All proceeds from this challenge will go towards the Autism Society of Greater Orlando. Join us at the Promenade at Sunset Walk for a day of cars, community, and compassion, all in support of a great cause.
Tickets for the 4th Annual Autism Awareness Car & Truck Show are available now online. Spectators can enter at no charge, while VIP parking for the car show runs $30 per vehicle.
Star Wars Takes Over the Empire State Building in New York City
The Star Wars “March to May the 4th” campaign kicked off yesterday with an array of exciting product announcements. Fans were treated to a diverse range of new offerings, including toys, apparel, accessories, collectibles, and more, all celebrating the beloved Star Wars universe. The festivities began with a spectacular takeover of the iconic Empire State Building, where a grand lighting ceremony marked the start of this galactic celebration.
Throughout the day, fans enjoyed immersive fan experiences, captivating window displays showcasing the latest merchandise, and other engaging activities. The highlight of the event was a breathtaking dynamic light show that illuminated the faรงade of the world-famous New York landmark, capturing the imagination of Star Wars enthusiasts and onlookers alike. The electrifying display served as a fitting start to the countdown leading up to May the 4th, a date cherished by Star Wars fans worldwide.
The takeover of the Empire State Building includes interactive photo moments, which highlight newย Star Warsย consumer products in window and observatory deck displays. On the iconicย 86thย Floor Observatory,ย Star Warsย fans can pose with a life-size Funko POP!ย Darth Vaderย figure with a backdrop of unmatchedย New York Cityย skyline views. To celebrate the 25thย anniversary of LEGOยฎย Star Warsโข, the LEGO Group is featuring a museum-quality display of life-sizedย Star Warsย villains built from LEGO bricks, including six-foot tall, brick-built recreations ofย Darth Vaderย andย Darth Maulย on the building’s 80thย floor. The building’s iconic Fifth Avenue Lobby windows feature a specialย Star Warsย display that depicts imagery ofย Darth Vader,ย Darth Maulย and stormtroopers amid an array ofย Star Warsย merchandise. Select activations throughout the building and within the Observatory Experience will remain open to the public throughย April 29.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 21: <> attends the Empire State Building Lucasfilm Photo Opps at The Empire State Building on March 21, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust)
Additionally, Hasbro and Amazon have teamed up to create a Star Wars experience with something for every Star Wars fan on the first floor of the Empire State Building. The immersive fan activation offers visitors photo opportunities with costumed characters, including Darth Vader, and photo backdrops featuring iconic scenes inspired by the films. Visitors will be able to check out the latest Hasbro Black Series helmets or wield their favorite character’s FX Elite or Kyber Core LIGHTSABERโข adult and kid collectibles. The Hasbro and Amazon experience will remain open to the public through Saturday, March 23. On March 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET, the Dairy Farmers of America will treat guests to samples of the new TruMoo Star Wars Blue Milk, which will be available for purchase in April.
“We’re excited to unveil a broad range of new products for fans of all ages with our extensive roster of licensees and retailers as we all march to May the 4th,” saidย Paul Southern, Senior Vice President, Global Brand Commercialization, Lucasfilm, Disney Experiences. “We really brought the power of the Empire to the Empire State Building with thisย Star Warsย takeover, creating a moment only fit for one of the strongest entertainment brands and most enduring franchises in the world.”
New products across a variety of categories were revealed today at the Empire State Building, including first-time collaborations forย Star Warsย with Fisher-Price for theirย Imaginextยฎย Star Warsย Darth Vader Botย and Dairy Farmers of America for their TruMooย Star Warsย Blue Milk. Additional new reveals for today include the future-predictingย Force N’ Telling Vaderย toy from Hasbro, the first of three newย Star Warsย dark side timepieces from Citizen Watch –ย STAR WARSโข | Citizen Imperial Stormtrooper, collectibles themed toย Star Warsย starships from Jazwares, andย Darth Vader- and stormtrooper-inspired holiday animatronicsย from The Home Depot. Plus, Insight Editions announced a new book titledย Star Wars Icons:ย Darth Vader, which covers the character’s journey from his genesis inย George Lucas’ย first drafts ofย Star Warsย toย Anakin Skywalker’sย tragic fall to the dark side in the prequel trilogy, and beyond. Products from Displate, Fantasy Flight Games, BioWorld’s Heroes & Villains, Joffrey’s Coffee, Just Play, Panasonic and PopSockets were also featured in activities today.
Disney Storeย unveiled collections launching in the weeks leading up to May the 4thย including May the 4thย Be With You 2024,ย Star Warsย Artist Series byย Will Gay, a thrilling collection created in honor of the 25thย anniversary ofย Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, and a refresh ofย Star Warsย roleplayย apparel and accessories.ย Disney Store also announced The Sith Apprentice: Darth Maul Legacy LIGHTSABERย TMย Set โ Limited Edition, complete with light and musical effects, launching onย May 4, 2024, atย 8 a.m. PTย /ย 11 a.m. ET.ย These reveals and products follow a lineup of new items announced earlier this month onย StarWars.com/ImperialMarch.
This evening, the Empire State Building debuted a five-minute dynamic light show featuring fan-favorite scenes from Star Wars films and streaming series โ with a special focus on villains including Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, stormtroopers and more. The spectacle was synched to John Williams’ “The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme),” which was played simultaneously on iHeartMedia’s Z100 New York radio station and on the iHeartRadio app. Beloved Star Wars actor Hayden Christensen, who portrays one of the most recognizable antagonists of all time, Darth Vader, was on-hand for a special lighting ceremony to announce the launch of the program.
In addition to new consumer products offerings, more Star Wars news announced today includes:
Season of the Force at Disneyland Park: From April 5 to June 2, 2024, Disneyland Park guests can enjoy new experiences and limited-time Star Wars offerings during Season of the Force, including Hyperspace Mountain, themed food and beverage, merchandise and more. For a limited time beginning May 4, while supplies last, guests can purchase the collectible Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket at select locationsโserved with popcorn, french fries, or Galma Garlic Puffs, depending on locationโthroughout Disneyland Resort. Debuting during Season of the Force, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will provide a fresh perspective on the fireworks above Disneyland Park on select nights, with galactic music sweeping through the spires. For more information, visit Disneyland.com. Coming in May, for a limited time while supplies last, the Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket will also be available for purchase at select locations throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort.
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace 25th Anniversary Theatrical Re-Release: Fans can soon experience a limited-time re-release of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, in theaters beginning May 3, to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary. In addition, fans will also be treated to an exclusive look at The Acolyte, the upcoming Disney+ series set during the High Republic era, following all The Phantom Menace screenings. On May 4, in honor of both the film’s anniversary and the Star Wars fan holiday, fans will have the opportunity to see all nine episodes of the Skywalker Saga in theaters for a premium marathon event. Finally, those attending will receive a limited-edition poster. Tickets go on sale tomorrow, Friday, March 22.
Star Wars Celebration 2025:Star Wars Celebration, the Ultimate Star Wars Fan Event, is taking place April 18-20, 2025, in Japan. Tickets for Star Wars Celebration 2025 will go on sale Thursday, May 2, at 4 p.m. PT / 7 p.m. ET. The key art for the event was revealed earlier today and is created in the traditional black ink painting style known as sumi-e, with Darth Vader placed in the foreground. Brush strokes extend from the Sith Lord to the branches of a cherry blossom tree, leading to AT-ATs, X-wings, and TIE fighters. The Rising Sun of the Japanese flag balances the image, with Mount Fuji featured in its center. For more information, visit StarWarsCelebration.com.
As the March to May the 4thย continues, for the latest product reveals and updates, visitย StarWars.com.
Living with the Land, a popular attraction in EPCOT’s World Nature neighborhood, offers a unique glimpse into the future of farming. This gentle boat tour takes visitors past greenhouses where Walt Disney World horticulturists employ innovative growing techniques and cross-breeding to produce high-yield crops. Did you know that the food grown on the ride is not just for show, but is actually used at resteraunts around the park?
Living with the Land showcases a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fish from around the world, some of which have been modified for better growth and yield. Guests can see hybrid striped bass, tilapia, catfish, and freshwater shrimp in the attraction’s fish farm, all part of Disney’s effort to promote sustainable farming practices.
The produce and seafood grown in Living with the Land’s greenhouses are used in several EPCOT restaurants, allowing guests to taste the fruits of this innovative labor. The Garden Grill Restaurant and Sunshine Seasons food court, both located in The Land Pavilion, feature fresh produce and seafood from the attraction. Even the Coral Reef Restaurant and other dining spots around EPCOT may occasionally serve dishes made with ingredients grown in Living with the Land’s greenhouses.
Dining at The Garden Grill offers a special opportunity to connect with the source of your meal. Guests can ask their server to speak with the chef about which menu items feature sustainable produce or fish from the greenhouses. This way, diners can make informed choices and appreciate the journey from farm to table.
For those interested in learning more about the science and technology behind the scenes, the Behind the Seeds tour is a perfect choice. This one-hour walking tour provides an up-close look at the fish farm and four greenhouses that comprise The Land Pavilion. Participants learn about the various crops, discover cutting-edge plant-growing techniques like hydroponics, and gain a deeper understanding of Disney’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Living with the Land and the Behind the Seeds tour exemplify Disney’s dedication to environmental stewardship and innovation in farming. By integrating these practices into its attractions and dining experiences, Disney not only educates its guests but also contributes to a more sustainable future.
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!
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, previously a moderate Disney resort, have been transformed into new cabins under the Disney Vacation Club. With this upgrade, guests at the cabins can now take advantage of Extended Evening Hours, a sought-after benefit that allows for additional time in select theme parks on select nights. This enhancement aligns the cabins with other Disney Deluxe Resort and Disney Deluxe Villa Resort offerings and is set to continue through 2025.
The Extended Evening Hours benefit is exclusive to registered guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, and other select hotels. The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort have now joined this prestigious list as a Disney Vacation Club Resort. Here is the full list of currently eligible resorts:
During the extended evening theme park hours, guests can enjoy select merchandise, food, and beverage locations. Attractions such as “it’s a small world,” Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Frozen Ever After, and Test Track are scheduled to be operational, although this is subject to change. On nights with extended evening hours at EPCOT, guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts can request to join the virtual queue for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at 6:00 PM. Similarly, at Magic Kingdom park, they can request to join the virtual queue for TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise.
To participate in Extended Evening Hours, guests need valid admission and a MagicBand, Disney MagicMobile pass, or Key to the World Card. For those using a Park Hopper ticket, it’s essential to enter the park where the reservation was made before visiting other parks. While theme park reservations are no longer required for date-based tickets, they may be necessary for other admission types.
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!
Mattel Adventure Park Kansas City Set for 2026 Opening
A second Mattel theme park is coming in 2026! Through a licensing partnership with Epic Resort, Mattel is opening a second Mattel Adventure Park location in an all-new entertainment resort destination located in Bonner Springs, Kansas.
The forthcoming Mattel Adventure Park Kansas City is set to feature the eagerly awaited attractions from Mattel Adventure Park Glendale, Arizona, including the thrilling Hot Wheels roller coasters like the Hot Wheels Bone Shaker: The Ultimate Ride and the Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer. Crafted to captivate enthusiasts of every age, the Hot Wheels Bone Shaker themed ride will showcase the iconic hot rodโs skull motif, while the double-looping Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer promises an exhilarating rush for all passengers.
While these attractions ensure high-octane excitement for racing aficionados of every generation, Mattel Adventure Park Kansas City has much more to offer for visitors, showcasing beloved Mattel brands like Thomas & Friends: World of Sodor. This section boasts five immersive attractions and rides tailored for families, along with an exclusive indoor play area designed for young adventurers.
Moreover, the park will feature the extravagant Barbie Beach House, presenting an interactive retail experience where enthusiasts can craft personalized Barbie sets within the innovative Barbie Dream Closet Experience, utilizing holographic technology to bring Barbie to life right in front of guests. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a one-of-a-kind Barbie-themed flying theater experience and indulge in fine dining at The Barbie Rooftop restaurant and bar.
Experience the epic clash between He-Man and Skeletor at He-Man vs. Skeletor Laser Tag, where Masters of the Universe enthusiasts can engage in thrilling battles for the fate of Eternia within a sprawling laser tag arena modeled after the legendary Castle Grayskull fortress. Moreover, Mattel Adventure Park will introduce an exciting mini-golf venture, presenting 18 creatively designed holes inspired by Magic 8 Ball, Pictionary, and other cherished Mattel games. Additionally, visitors can scale a larger-than-life custom climb UNO structure, combining nostalgia with adventure to cater to all ages.
โMattel Adventure Park Kansas City will bring our iconic brands to life with epic roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, an immersive theatre, themed dining, and so much more,โ said Josh Silverman, Chief Franchise Officer at Mattel. โWe are thrilled to expand these themed entertainment destinations and invite new fans to experience the world of Mattel in all-new ways as they create lasting memories with loved ones.โ
โWe are proud and excited to announce Kansas City, Kansas, as the second themed entertainment destination location for Mattel Adventure Park, an Epic Resort Destinations licensing partnership with Mattel,โ said Mark Cornell, President of Epic Resort Destinations. โWe are bringing Mattelโs powerhouse brands to life through state-of-the-art technology and engaging experiences. This new destination is sure to provide infinite fun for the whole family.โ
A sneak peek and more updates will be coming and there are plans to break ground this year!
Former Imagineer Joe Rohde Thanks Fellow Imagineers for Being Named Disney Legend
Congratulations to Joe Rohde on being honored as part of the 2024 class of Disney Legends at D23! Rohde’s career at Walt Disney Imagineering was quite remarkable as Executive Designer and Vice President, Creative. Rohde’s contributions have left an impressive mark on Disney’s legacy of immersive and innovative entertainment experiences.
Rohde joined Disney Imagineering in 1980 during the development of Epcot as a model designer and scenic painter for the theme park’s Mexico pavilion. He played a pivotal role in shaping the Disney experience through his work at Disney Imagineering. He led the design of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and was instrumental in creating the thrilling Expedition Everest ride, which debuted in 2006. Additionally, Rohde contributed significantly to projects such as Aulani resort in Oสปahu, Hawaii, and the refurbishment of Fantasyland at Disneyland.
After successfully designing Aulani in Hawaii, Joe Rohde embarked on creating Pandora โ The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a project that spanned six years and opened in May 2017. Following this achievement, Rohde led the transformation of Disney California Adventure’s Tower of Terror into Guardians of the Galaxy โ Mission: Breakout!, which also debuted in May 2017. This endeavor marked an expansion of his role as the global creative leader of the Marvel property.
In February 2020, Rohde took on the role of lead developer for Disney’s second private island, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. However, on November 23, 2020, Rohde announced his retirement from Walt Disney Imagineering, effective January 4, 2021. Shortly after, on February 22, 2021, Virgin Galactic announced that Joe Rohde had joined their team as their Experience Architect, showcasing his continued impact and influence in the realm of immersive experiences. Thank you, Joe, for all of your amazing contributions you made to Disney!
