Disneyland Paris is once again capturing the hearts of visitors with its latest aerial spectacle, the “Disney Electrical Sky Parade.” This new show draws inspiration from the beloved “Main Street Electrical Parade,” which has been a fan favorite since the early days of Walt Disney World.
The “Disney Electrical Sky Parade” is a modern twist on the classic Main Street Electrical Parade, featuring advanced technology such as projection effects, lighting, lasers, fountains, and an impressive fleet of 500 drones. These drones recreate iconic scenes from the original parade, including the Blue Fairy, Cinderella’s pumpkin coach, the Casey Junior circus train, and Elliot the dragon, all in a dazzling dotted light style.
The nostalgia factor is strong with this parade, as the soundtrack is directly inspired by the electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound of the classic parade theme. The music team, including Music Producer Jonathan Barr and Composer Rick McKee, took on the challenge of honoring the original while infusing it with new life for a new generation.
A standout feature of the “Disney Electrical Sky Parade” is the addition of nearly 20 specialty drones equipped with pyrotechnic effects, creating magical illusions like smoke from Casey Junior’s smokestack and pixie dust trailing off the pirate ship from “Peter Pan.” Live Entertainment Producer Ben Spalding, who once performed in the “Main Street Electrical Parade,” expressed his excitement about adding this extra layer of magic to the show.
The creation of the “Disney Electrical Sky Parade” was a collaborative effort led by Executive Entertainment Director Dana Harrel and involved the talents of numerous professionals, including Pyro and Special Effects Designer Metin Cig, Lighting Designer Adrien Mourey, Video Designer Martin Clerel, Audio Designer Mickael Paradis, and many more.
This breathtaking show is not just impressive in photos and videos but is truly an astounding sight to behold in person. It is scheduled to run through September 30, 2024, so there’s still time to plan a visit to Disneyland Paris and experience this spectacular festival of nighttime magic and imagination.
Disney Movie Club is Officially Closing This Year, Sony to Takeover Physical Media Production
The Disney Movie Club, originally established in 2001 to sell VHS and DVD movies directly to consumers, is set to permanently shut down. The closure is part of Sony’s takeover of Disney’s physical media production, which includes the production and distribution of DVDs and Blu-rays. Sony will handle the entire process, from authoring the discs to physical distribution, starting later this year.
The Disney Movie Club, known for enticing offers like “five movies for a dollar,” has been a subscription service providing exclusive discs to its members. Fans have been informed of the closure, and they have until May 20, 2024, to make their final purchases. The announcement coincides with users noticing pop-up notices about the club’s imminent closure when logging into the Disney Movie Club website.
While the specific details about which movies Sony will distribute are not confirmed, it is anticipated that Disney’s extensive catalog, often kept in the “vault,” may be gradually phased out of the physical media space. Disney’s unique approach to physical media, including exclusive releases and limited availability, has set it apart in the industry.
With Sony taking over the production and distribution of Disney’s physical media, the landscape of physical media for Disney content is likely to change, impacting the availability and accessibility of Disney movies on DVDs and Blu-rays.
Full Menu Revealed for Ice Cold Hydraulics Now Open in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The new food kiosk, Ice Cold Hydraulics, is now open in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! The location offers drinks and snacks and we’ve got a look at the full menu. Take a look!
What are you looking forward to trying at the new kiosk?
Ready to plan your next visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Contact me today! I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
This enchanting lantern is inspired in the floating lanterns from Tangled that we all love! You can use it to add magic to your room or as a decor piece during a birthday party or wedding, so adorable.
The lantern is chargeable via USB and has 5 brightness settings, as well as, color options. Definitely a must have!
These glasses are sure to become a favorite in your home, they are crafted in lead-free crystal and feature a ridged design with a Mickey icon outline in the center. They look elegant and magical, perfect for those wanting to add a subtle touch of magic to their home decor!
There are 3 different sizes available of this spooky sign that you can personalize with your house number! It comes with the “Welcome Foolish Mortals” text at the bottom and is made of an eco-friendly thermoplastic. If you need a bigger size, you can request that to the seller.
New Walt Disney World Gold License Plate Cover Spotted At Hollywood Studios!
Bring the magic with you everywhere you go with this Walt Disney World Gold License Plate Cover that will make your car look enchanting! We found it at Hollywood Studios for $24.99 and let us tell you, this license plate is gorgeous!
It features a gold finish with the Walt Disney World logo on the top and Cinderella Castle in black with fireworks at the bottom. The sides feature the retro Mickey Disney World logo with more fireworks.
You can take a closer look at this license plate in our Instagram post:
Dream a fantastic dream every time you wear this Sorcerer Mickey Baseball Hat! You can get yours at the Creations Shop at Epcot, as well as, the Disney Store website for $29.99 and use your imagination to put together the most magical outfits with this fun accessory.
The gray cap features embroidered artwork of Sorcerer Mickey Mouse and the broom from Fantasia on the front and “Disney Fantasia” logo on the back. Is a simple and enchanting design that will definitely cast a spell on you!
You can take a closer look at this hat in our Instagram post:
This week at Walt Disney World, Disney Genie+ continues to see strong sales, with Magic Kingdom experiencing a sold-out day. Both Genie+ at Magic Kingdom and the Multi-Park option reached full capacity at 8:45 am, just 15 minutes before the park officially opened at 9 am.
Although pricing for Genie+ has slightly decreased from yesterday’s 2024 high, it remains a popular choice among visitors. The current rates are $29 for Magic Kingdom, $26 for Disney’s Hollywood Studios, $18 for Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and $21 for EPCOT.
Disney Genie+ is part of the Disney Genie service, offering guests access to Lightning Lane (formerly FastPass lines) at select attractions. Not all headline attractions are included in Genie+, and access to these specific attractions requires an additional Individual Attraction purchase, with prices varying. The continued popularity of Disney Genie+ underscores its appeal to visitors seeking a more efficient and enjoyable theme park experience.
Enter for a chance to win a 7-night Disney cruise and go on a cultural adventure to Greece and Italy with your family!
Embark on a magical Mediterranean adventure with Disney Cruise Line this summer, creating unforgettable memories for your family. Explore the iconic landmarks, rich culture, and breathtaking views of Italy and Greece on a 7-night European Cruise aboard the Disney Dream.
The enchantment continues on board with something for every member of your family. From encounters with beloved Disney Characters and captivating Broadway-style shows to imaginative dining experiences and exclusive spaces designed for both adults and kids, the cruise promises to be a journey filled with joy.
Let Disney Cruise Line turn your family’s summer vacation dreams into reality. Seize the opportunity to win a remarkable prize package, including a 7-night European Cruise on the Disney Dream for up to 4 persons, a one-night stay in a standard room near the Embarkation Port, and round-trip coach airfare.
Indulge in all meals on board the Disney Dream (excluding specialty and fine dining), and create cherished moments as you sail the seas with Disney magic. Don’t miss your chance to show your kids the world—enter today and make this summer a truly extraordinary family getaway!
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends on 3/10/24 at 11:59 pm ET. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C., who are 18+ at the time of entry. Limit 1 entry per person per day. Visit www.Sweepstakes.DisneyCruise.com for Official Rules including details on how to enter, eligibility requirements, odds of winning, prize description, and limitations. Void where prohibited.
Salt & Straw & Taco Bell are Bringing Back the Choco Taco
Taco Bell is set to mend the Choco Taco-sized hole in fans’ hearts with a delightful collaboration. After the discontinuation of the beloved ice cream truck treat in July 2022, Taco Bell is teaming up with Salt & Straw to introduce its own take on Klondike’s Choco Taco.
Partnering with the Portland-based ice cream brand, Taco Bell’s version features taco shells crafted from waffle cones, mirroring the original. However, the filling is a twist, featuring cinnamon ancho chile ice cream instead of the classic vanilla with chocolate swirls. The dessert is dipped in chocolate, and adorned with toasted brown rice, replacing the original’s peanut pieces.
Adding a unique touch to the nostalgic treat, Taco Bell’s Choco Taco will come with sauce packets, reminiscent of the fast-casual Mexican chain’s hot sauce options. The custom sauce packets include flavors like chocolate chili, mango jalapeño for a spicy kick, and cinnamon wild berry for a milder taste. To complete the experience, the dessert is served with a cheesecake dip.
This delectable creation will be available nationwide at Salt & Straw’s scoop shops and for online orders with nationwide shipping, as announced on Salt & Straw’s Instagram.
Although a specific release date has not been confirmed, the post indicates that these delightful Choco Tacos will hit the shelves this summer.
Don’t forget Salt & Straw is also located at Disney Springs & Downtown Disney in case you don’t have a shop located near you.
First Look at the Construction at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Our friends over at MouseSteps were able to get a first look at Disney’s Lighthouse Point while on a Princess Cruise last week. Jeff & Denise spotted not only the colorful cabanas but almost all of the construction going on at Disney’s all-new private island ahead of its Summer 2024 opening.
You can click here to see all of the photos but of course, they also grabbed a video that can be seen below.
Earlier this year Disney Cruise Line unveiled new looks for Mickey and Minnie Mouse for their visits to Disney Cruise Line’s newest island destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera. Specially designed by acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer, Theodore Elyett, the garments will have a distinct Bahamian flair inspired by the bright, colorful spirit of Junkanoo, the country’s signature festival filled with joyous music and vibrant parades.
In summer 2024, Disney Cruise Line will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time. Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
“At Disney Cruise Line, we have a deep appreciation for the Bahamian community,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “We are connected in many ways, including our shared values of storytelling and hospitality. With the opening of Lighthouse Point, visitors from around the world will experience the magic of The Bahamas in a new way, one that truly celebrates its natural and cultural beauty.”
New details about Lighthouse Point reveal a relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
Uniquely Designed, Sustainably Developed
When guests arrive to Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues — a bold style inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.
The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.
Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.
“Lighthouse Point is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, so our goal has always been to create designs that accentuate its qualities in an organic way,” said Kevin Thomas, creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “We’re focused on low-density, sustainable development that protects and preserves the environment, allowing the site’s biodiversity to shine.”
Fun and Relaxation for Everyone
At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.
Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beachon the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities.
A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.
A brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.
Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more.
North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a glorious stretch of sun-drenched serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.
Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a themed kids’ club under the care of highly-trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid,” plenty of shade and a dedicated dining area.
Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along the south-western shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.
Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.
A collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.
Disney’s new island destination is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas and lunch) and convenient tram transportation.
Lighthouse Point will open for guests on select sailings in summer 2024. Details on inaugural itineraries and additional information about signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions will be released at a later date.
