Two Princess & the Frog Retail Shops Coming to Disneyland

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March 18, 2024

We have some exciting Disneyland Resort news to share with you! Two brand new retail stores, inspired by the movie “The Princess and the Frog,” are set to open in Critter Country at Disneyland Park: Ray’s Berets and Louis’ Critter Club!

Ray’s Berets: This cozy cabin will be the go-to spot for an array of merchandise, including headwear, apparel, accessories, and toys. Inspired by the charming firefly Raymond and his kin, Ray’s Berets is sure to light up your shopping experience with its unique bayou flair.

Louis’ Critter Club: Located on the left-hand side of Pooh Corner, this shop will feature a wide range of apparel, accessories, and home decor. Celebrating the critter friends from “The Princess and the Frog,” Louis’ Critter Club will immerse guests in the vibrant story of Princess Tiana and her bayou adventures.

Both stores are set to open alongside the highly anticipated attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, later this year. To accommodate these exciting new additions, Critter Country will temporarily close starting May 1, 2024. But not to worry, the sweet treats from the Hundred Acre Wood at Pooh Corner will still be available for all to enjoy.

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Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting developments at Disneyland Resort. It’s almost time to let the good times roll in the bayou!

Disney World Extends Theme Park Hours for Easter & First Week of April 2024

By

Chris B

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March 18, 2024

We have some exciting news for all guests who are planning to visit Walt Disney World this Easter! Walt Disney World has announced extended operating hours at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom for the Easter holiday and the first week of April 2024. This means more time for fun and adventure in the parks!

Starting from Sunday, March 31, and continuing through Saturday, April 6, guests will have extra hours to enjoy their favorite attractions and experiences. Magic Kingdom, known for its iconic Cinderella Castle, will now welcome guests from 8 a.m. every day, an hour earlier than previously scheduled. The park will also remain open until 11 p.m., giving visitors two additional hours of magic each evening. Eligible hotel guests can take advantage of early entry starting at 7:30 a.m. and extended evening hours on Wednesday, April 3, from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where you can embark on a safari adventure or take a journey to Pandora – The World of Avatar, is also extending its hours. The park will open at 8 a.m. daily, with early entry at 7:30 a.m., and will close at 8 p.m. from March 31 to April 5, and at 7 p.m. on April 6.

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, home to the thrilling Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land, the park will open its gates at 8:30 a.m. from April 1 to 5, with early entry at 8 a.m. The park will stay open until 9:30 p.m. throughout the week, providing more time for guests to explore the world of movies and entertainment.

These extended hours offer a fantastic opportunity for guests to make the most of their visit to Walt Disney World during the Easter holiday and the first week of April. Whether you’re looking to experience more attractions, enjoy the beautiful spring weather, or simply soak up the magical atmosphere, there’s no better time to plan your trip to the Happiest Place on Earth!

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!

NEW Spring Popcorn Mix at Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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March 18, 2024

disney-popcorn-spring-mix-Magic-Kingdom-1

Spring has sprung at Magic Kingdom, and with it comes a delightful new treat that’s perfect for the season. The Main Street Confectionary is now offering a limited-time Spring Popcorn Mix, priced at $15.99. This festive snack is a colorful blend of caramel popcorn, M&M’s milk chocolate candies in pastel hues, crushed vanilla cookies, mini marshmallows, and a drizzle of white and yellow chocolate.

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The ingredients chosen for this spring mix compliment each other well. of flavors and textures make this mix a very interesting choice. The caramel popcorn provides a great base for the sweet and colorful additions, with the white chocolate drizzle serving to both add flavor and bind the ingredients together. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a harmonious and enjoyable snacking experience.

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If you’re visiting Magic Kingdom this spring, be sure to stop by Main Street Confectionary and treat yourself to this seasonal popcorn delight!

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!

Florida Coral Rescue Center Marks Fourth Year with Landmark Conservation Efforts

By

Catherine

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March 18, 2024

Florida Coral Rescue Center Marks Fourth Year with Landmark Conservation Efforts

For the last four years, Disney’s aquatic wildlife experts have collaborated with conservationists on a crucial mission to protect Florida’s coral reefs from the fast-spreading stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD). This disease has endangered 22 coral species, prompting urgent conservation efforts. Florida’s Coral Reef is currently in the midst of a multi-year outbreak of stony coral tissue loss disease, and Disney is working hard to care for these amazing coral reefs.

By joining forces with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, NOAA Fisheries, and SeaWorld, Disney has been able to establish the Florida Coral Rescue Center in Orlando, the largest facility of its kind in the U.S. to care for and safeguard some of the most vulnerable species of Florida coral.

The Orlando-based Florida Coral Rescue Center (FCRC) is a state-of-the-art facility that cares for hundreds of corals that are most at risk of SCTLD. Scientists say the disease has become a widespread issue that has now swept the entirety of Florida’s coral reef and other regions around the world. Here are some fun facts about the Florida Coral Rescue Center:

The FCRC is 2,058 sq. ft.
Number of corals housed at the FCRC – 524 corals
Holding system surface area – area devoted specifically to coral holding – Total 620 sq. ft.
Number of coral aquariums – 18 aquariums
Staffing: 2 Full Time (40 hours/week) | 2 Part Time (28 hours/week) Total – 136 hours per week
Total number of gallons devoted to coral care at the FCRC – 5,800 gallons
LED lighting system is set on a timer to mimic the sun and moon cycle of Key West

Very impressive! To learn more about Coral Reefs and Disney’s incredible efforts to save them, you can click here, and watch the YouTube video below with Dr. Andy Stamper, Disney’s Conservation Science Manager.

Florida Coral Rescue Center Marks Fourth Year with Landmark Conservation Efforts (youtube.com)

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Closes for Refurbishment as Typhoon Lagoon Reopens

By

Chris B

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March 18, 2024

Orlando Magic players visited Blizzard Beach

When one door (or waterpark closes), another one opens. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon has recently reopened its doors to visitors after undergoing its annual refurbishment, and Blizzard Beach has once again closed. For those keeping track, Disney has not had both water parks open simultaneously since before the COVID-19 pandemic, with Blizzard beach seemingly only opening when Typhoon Lagoon needs to undergo refurb.

There’s been no official announcement from Disney regarding whether both water parks will be open together this summer. There is a hint, however, that a change to the water park strategy may be on the horizon. Disney has introduced a new on-property promotion for 2025 that provides guests with a free water park visit on their check-in day. This exciting offer could be a sign that Disney plans to have both water parks operational at the same time during busy periods to accommodate the expected increase in demand.

So, whether you’re a fan of the tropical paradise of Typhoon Lagoon or the wintry wonderland of Blizzard Beach, there’s plenty to look forward to. Keep an eye out for further updates on the refurbishment progress and the potential for double the water park fun in the 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!

Duffy & Friends Spring Merch Coming to Tokyo Disneyland this April

By

Sara

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March 18, 2024

Duffy & Friends Spring Merch Coming to Tokyo Disneyland this April

This April, guests visiting Tokyo Disneyland can enjoy new Duffy & Friends spring merchandise for a limited time!

Starting April 1, 2024, a new merchandise and souvenir menu will be available at Tokyo Disney Sea.

Goods featuring Duffy and Friends enjoying an egg hunt in a beautiful flower garden filled with colorful flowers will be available. This new merchandise is perfect for spring outings and can be enjoyed inside the park.

Merchandise like plush, rings, headbands, apparel, and more will be available!

A souvenir menu featuring colorful flowers and Duffy & Friends designs will also be available.

Are you a fan of Duffy and Friends?

Kali River Rapids Reopens After Annual Refurbishment

By

Sara

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March 18, 2024

Kali River Rapids Reopens After Annual Refurbishment

Just in time for the spring break season, Kali River Rapids has reopened at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! The attraction was closed for its annual refurbishment and is once again welcoming guests.

The renovation commenced on January 8, 2024, concluding on March 16, 2024. Presently, operating hours are from 9 am to 7 pm.

The Disney World website describes the attraction as:

“Skim across an erupting geyser, drift below a canopy of lush vegetation and be whisked along fast-moving rapids. Graze gushing waterfalls and bedrock amid the raging current. Then, as the harmony of nature is disrupted, you’ll plummet down a dramatic 20-foot slope!”

Kali River Rapids Reopens After Annual Refurbishment

You will surely get splashed on this attraction—and you may even get soaked. Guests wishing to remain dry are encouraged to bring a waterproof poncho, extra clothes or a towel to dry off.

Lockers for mobile devices and other items you want to stay dry are located across from the entrance to Kali River Rapids and are available during your ride (on a first-come, first-served basis).

Do you like riding Kali River Rapids?

If you’d like to book your next trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Walt Disney Imagineering Files Permit for New Show Set Installations in the Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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March 18, 2024

Walt Disney Imagineering Files Permit for New Show Set Installations in the Magic Kingdom

A new permit has been filed by Walt Disney Imagineering for a project coming to Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom.

The permit, pinpointed near Storybook Circus, outlines its purpose as “Installation of show sets.” Themeworks Inc., a regular vendor for Imagineering, has been assigned the permit. They have notably contributed to projects such as Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT.

While the permit doesn’t explicitly mention a particular undertaking, it’s probable that it pertains to the previously disclosed ‘Smellephants on Parade’ project.

During ‘Smellephants on Parade,’ visitors entering Storybook Circus will encounter a casting call from Timothy Q. Mouse, on the lookout for a “Whiff-sistant” to join Dumbo’s latest performance. At the ticket booth near Big Top Souvenirs, Cast Members will furnish guests with a map and sticker sheet to assist them in their training.

As part of their training, prospective “Whiff-sistants” will roam Storybook Circus to locate several Smellephants statues, each emitting a distinct, circus-themed aroma, with popcorn among them.

Furthermore, Scentsy has signed on as the sponsor of the Dumbo attraction as part of a multi-year partnership.

In 2021, Scentsy entered a multi-year collaboration with the Walt Disney World Resort, encompassing various ventures such as a fresh attraction in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom, a showcase at the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival, and assuming the role of the Official Home Fragrance provider for Walt Disney World.

Ready to plan your next visit to Magic Kingdom? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney Closed for Extended Refurbishment

By

Sara

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March 17, 2024

WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney Closed for Extended Refurbishment

The WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort is a boutique devoted to art, home décor, accessories and apparel. It is currently closed for an extended refurbishment and won’t reopen until later this year.

The Disneyland website says the location won’t reopen until next winter:

“WonderGround Gallery will be closing March 11 for refurbishments that are expected to be completed next winter. Please check back in the fall for updated information.”

While the refurbishment is underway, WonderGround artwork can be purchased at the nearby Disney Home store.

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Ready to visit the Disneyland Resort? Contact me today to start planning! I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE.

Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon this May

By

Catherine

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March 16, 2024

Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon this May

Disney’s hottest pool party is making its comeback this May at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon with a splash! Grab your swimsuits, towels, and glow sticks, and get your tickets to the party at Disney H2O Glow After Hours! This exclusive event has limited capacity and is sure to be an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss!

During this 3 hour nighttime event, get ready to party with Disney friends, delight in complimentary ice cream novelties, popcorn and cool drinks, and dance the night away with friends at the DJ dance party! It’s also the perfect time to enjoy some of the Water Park’s favorite attractions like Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, Castaway Creek, raft rides and waterslides—with lower wait times!

Disney H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon takes place on select nights from May 25 to August 31, 2024. Here is a schedule of the event dates and prices so you can plan your trip to this awesome party.

Event Dates & Ticket Prices

Event Date	Price (Excludes Tax)	Price for Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members (Excludes Tax)
Saturday, May 25	$75	$60
Saturday, June 1	$75	$60
Saturday, June 8	$75	$60
Friday, June 14	$75	$60
Saturday, June 22	$75	$60
Friday, June 28	$75	$60
Friday, July 5	$85	$70
Saturday, July 6	$85	$70
Saturday, July 13	$85	$70
Tuesday, July 16	$75	$60
Saturday, July 20	$85	$70
Friday, July 26	$85	$70
Tuesday, July 30	$75	$60
Friday, August 2	$85	$70
Saturday, August 10	$85	$70
Saturday, August 17	$85	$70
Saturday, August 24	$85	$70
Saturday, August 31	$85	$70

This event takes place from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. You can get a head start on the fun by entering the park at 6:00 PM—a few hours before the event officially begins.

Be sure to check out The Disney Store’s official Swim Shop here for all your H2O pool party needs!

Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Shake from Schmoozies is chocolatey-marshmallowy goodness

By

Sara

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March 16, 2024

Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Shake from Schmoozies is Chocolatey-Marshmallowy Goodness

Schmoozies at Disney California Adventure is a popular spot for shakes and smoothies! Every couple of months there is a new seasonal milkshake or two for guests to try.

One of the seasonal shakes available now is the Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Shake. It’s a chocolate, caramel, and marshmallow shake with whipped topping, caramel & chocolate sauce and marshmallow cookie pie.

The drink was sweet and tasty. It’s perfect for chocolate lovers. The only thing we didn’t care for was the excessive whipped topping which was overwhelming towards the end of the shake.

The shake is available for $13.29 plus tax and is easily shareable.

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Do you enjoy shakes from Schmoozies?

If you’d like to book your next Disneyland trip, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE.

Galactic Gateway in Tomorrowland Gets a Fresh Coat of Paint in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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March 16, 2024

Guests visiting Tomorrowland at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom will note a subtle but impactful new upgrade. The Galactic Gateway has received a fresh coat of pain.

The Galactic Gateway stage area in Tomorrowland is the home base of a variety of dance parties during the after hours events held at Magic Kingdom. Guests can also often find character meet and greets here during the day.

Refurbishment work on the Galactic Gateway continues, with the rolling ferns being installed to keep guests away from the area while the work is being performed.

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!