Disney Hosting Open Casting Call for Ariel & Prince Eric for New Little Mermaid Show

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February 6, 2024

Disney Live Entertainment is inviting performers from around the globe to audition online for roles in the upcoming production of “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure.” This live show, set to debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, FL, seeks to fill the iconic roles of Ariel and Prince Eric.

The casting announcement marks an exciting development for Disney enthusiasts and aspiring actors, as the company moves to replace the “Voyage of the Little Mermaid” show, which concluded its final performance in 2020.

Inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic, “The Little Mermaid,” the new production is a complete reimagining of Ariel’s journey to be part of the human world. The show promises to feature beloved musical numbers from the film, such as “Part of Your World,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” among others. Disney Live Entertainment aims to captivate audiences with this fresh take on the tale, encouraging guests to immerse themselves in the music and story of Ariel’s undersea adventure.

The casting call is open for the roles of Ariel, described as a spirited, fun-loving mermaid with a lyrical pop soprano voice, and Prince Eric, a non-singing role that is characterized as a charismatic and fearless romantic. Disney specifies Ariel candidates should be between 5’2″ and 5’6″ tall, and Prince Eric hopefuls should measure between 5’10” and 6’0″.

Interested candidates are advised to follow a two-step process for their auditions. Initially, performers must create or update their Disney Performer Profile and upload their audition videos. For Ariel, materials include performances of “Part of Your World” and another song, along with an acting side that showcases her curious and adventurous spirit. For Prince Eric, a dramatic monologue is required, designed to highlight his romantic and determined nature.

Submissions are accepted through February 19, 2024, with Disney planning potential in-person callbacks in late March and early April across Orlando, New York, and Atlanta. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and authorized to work in the United States.

This casting call opens the stage for a new era of live entertainment at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, offering performers a chance to be part of a beloved Disney narrative. “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” not only aims to bring a classic story to life but also to inspire and entertain Disney guests with a tale of adventure, romance, and dreams. As the search for Ariel and Prince Eric begins, the anticipation for this musical adventure continues to grow, promising a magical addition to the Disney parks experience.

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!

Seven Seas Food Festival Returns to SeaWorld Orlando for 2024

By

Catherine

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February 6, 2024

Seven Seas Food Festival Returns to SeaWorld Orlando for 2024

SeaWorld Orlando is starting 2024 with the highly anticipated return of the beloved Seven Seas Food Festival, featuring an exciting lineup of brand-new flavors! Running on select dates from February 2 to May 19, this culinary extravaganza offers guests the chance to savor tastes from diverse cuisines around the globe as you explore attractions and captivating animal presentations at Orlando’s premier theme park.

Featuring more than 200 food and beverage choices influenced by various cultures worldwide, both food fans and families alike will embark on a culinary adventure at various international marketplaces spread across the park. These vibrant stalls showcase delicacies from Italy, Ireland, Brazil, Germany, Asia, and beyond, offering a rich tapestry of global flavors to delight the palate.

Some of the ALL-NEW food items guests can taste this year include:

NEW Fried Pickles: Served with a Texas Petal Sauce
NEW Whisky Maple Bacon Cinnamon Roll: Soft Sweet Cinnamon Roll, Crispy Crumbled
Bacon, Topped with Whiskey Maple Glaze
NEW Bangers and Mash: Guinness Sausage, Boursin Mashed Potatoes, Peas, Gravy
NEW St. Patrick’s Day Nachos: Crispy Potato Chips, Corned Beef, Cheese & Red Cabbage
NEW Tempura Battered Sushi: California Roll, Deep Fried and topped with Masago, Eel
Sauce
NEW Deep-Fried Dumpling: Asian Vegetable Medley, Ponzu Sauce
NEW Boudin Balls with Remoulade Sauce: Cajun Rice Balls with ground Pork & Chicken,
topped with Remoulade Sauce

This year the festival welcomes four ALL-NEW markets including the Indian Market, French
Market, Vegetarian Market, and Half Pipe Pavilion!
Guests can try the all-new Indian Market located near Infinity Falls. This marketplace will
feature:

NEW Garlic Na’an with Chickpea Curry: Tomato Cream Stew, Peas, Chutney
NEW Chicken Tikka Masala: Tomato Cream Sauce, Peppers, Jasmine Rice
NEW Jalebi: Crispy, Fluffy Indian Funnel Cake with Wildflower Honey
The French Market features classic French flavors for guests to enjoy. The marketplace will
include:
NEW Duck Confit: Served with Tabais Bean
NEW Escargot: Garlic Butter, Crostini
NEW Mini Crème Brûlée: Rich Vanilla Custard, Caramelized Sugar

The all-new Veggie Market, located on the Pipeline Pathway, features several delicious
meatless offerings such as:

NEW Veg’d Out Sandwich: Soybean Chicken Patty, Brioche Bun, Green Goddess,
Arugula, Tomato
NEW Taco ‘Bout It: Plant Based Chorizo, Pico de Gallo, Lettuce, Crema
NEW Lil’ Fruit Tart: Lime, Mango, Dairy-Free Custard, Lavendar
Half Pipe Pavilion is sure to start the party with several all-new specialty cocktails including:
NEW Non-Alcoholic Peach Lemonade
NEW Vodka Lemonade
NEW Lemon Basil Vodka Lemonade
NEW Cucumber Mint Vodka Lemonade
NEW Strawberry Vodka Lemonade

SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival is not just about delicious eats and refreshing sips
from around the world. The festival also features an incredible concert series guests will not
want to miss. Concerts will take place every Saturday and Sunday during the festival at Bayside
Stadium, and will feature a taste of Rock, Country, Latin, Hip Hop, R&B and 90s throwbacks – all
included with park admission. This year’s headliners include:

Ludacris (Hip-Hop)
Kool & The Gang (R&B/Soul)
Hoobastank (Rock)
Gloria Gaynor (R&B/Soul/Disco)
Gente de Zona (Latin)
Josh Turner (Country)
Warrant (Rock)
Grupo Niche (Latin)
Newsboys (Rock)
Night Ranger (Rock)
Corey Kent (Country)
… and many more performers to be announced!

Visitors can unlock a world of culinary exploration with the Seven Seas Food Festival Tasting Lanyard, offering an array of food and beverage combinations. Opt for the 10-sample lanyard priced at $70 or elevate the experience with the beloved 15-sample lanyard at $85, delivering optimal savings. For SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members, VIP treatment awaits as they enjoy the exclusive offer of purchasing 18 samples for the price of 15, enhancing their festival experience even further. We can’t wait to return to SeaWorld to try more delicious food and sensational sips!

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Returning on March 1st

By

Sara

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February 6, 2024

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Returning on March 1st

The Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival is returning to the Disneyland Resort on March 1st! Guests can celebrate California’s incredible bounty with vibrant cuisine, entertainment and more through April 22, 2024.

Throughout the festival, your entire family will have the opportunity to indulge in a wide array of delectable dishes, all while enjoying the attractions, entertainment, and character experiences included with admission to Disney California Adventure Park.

Whether you’re a seasoned home gourmet or just looking to pick up some expert tips and tricks, the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival promises an abundance of culinary enjoyment for everyone!

Explore the Festival Marketplaces for a varied and vibrant smorgasbord of palate-pleasing cuisine.

Visit Disney California Adventure Park for a plethora of fabulous Festival events—then stay for the irresistible small plates and beverages for sale at different outdoor marketplace kiosks. Each location’s mouthwatering menu is inspired by fresh, California-grown ingredients like avocados, citrus, strawberries, peppers and artisanal cheese. You’ll also discover a variety of locally brewed craft beers and wines from all across the Golden State.

Make your way to Sonoma Terrace and dive into the world of craft beers, house-made cocktails, fizzy seltzers and exceptional wines at the 2024 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival.

Reservations for Beverage Education & Tasting Seminars are required, and space is limited for these popular events. We recommend booking experiences in advance.

Michelada Tasting Seminars
The following events take place from noon to 12:45 PM.

Saturday, March 2: Bricia Lopez, Guelaguetza
Sunday, March 3: Bricia Lopez, Guelaguetza

Beer Education & Tasting Seminars
The following events take place from noon to 12:45 PM.

Saturday, March 9: Crowns & Hops Brewing Co.
Sunday, March 10: Crowns & Hops Brewing Co.
Saturday, March 16: Ballast Point Brewing Co.
Sunday, March 17: Ballast Point Brewing Co.
Saturday, March 23: Brewheim
Sunday, March 24: Brewheim
Saturday, March 30: Stone Brewing
Sunday, March 31: Stone Brewing
Saturday, April 6: Unsung Brewing Co.
Sunday, April 7: Unsung Brewing Co.
Saturday, April 13: Pizza Port Brewing Co.
Sunday, April 14: Pizza Port Brewing Co.

Ethel M Chocolate & Wine Paring
The following events take place from noon to 12:45 PM.

Saturday, April 20
Sunday, April 21

Mixology Seminar
The following events take place from 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM.

Friday, March 1: Disney Mixology featuring Carthay Circle Restaurant
Saturday, March 2: Disney Mixology featuring Carthay Circle Restaurant
Sunday, March 3: Disney Mixology featuring Carthay Circle Restaurant
Friday, March 8: Disney Mixology featuring Lamplight Lounge
Saturday, March 9: Disney Mixology featuring Lamplight Lounge
Sunday, March 10: Disney Mixology featuring Lamplight Lounge
Friday, March 15: Mixology Class featuring Blind Rabbit
Saturday, March 16: Mixology Class featuring Blind Rabbit
Sunday, March 17: Mixology Class featuring Blind Rabbit
Friday, March 22: Disney Mixology featuring Hollywood Lounge
Saturday, March 23: Disney Mixology featuring Hollywood Lounge
Sunday, March 24: Disney Mixology featuring Hollywood Lounge
Friday, March 29: Mixology Class featuring Truly LA
Saturday, March 30: Mixology Class featuring Truly LA
Sunday, March 31: Mixology Class featuring Truly LA
Friday, April 5: Disney Mixology featuring Oga’s Cantina
Saturday, April 6: Disney Mixology featuring Oga’s Cantina
Sunday, April 7: Disney Mixology featuring Oga’s Cantina
Friday, April 12: Mixology Class featuring Bad Birdy of KUDUOWL
Saturday, April 13: Mixology Class featuring Bad Birdy of KUDUOWL
Sunday, April 14: Mixology Class featuring Bad Birdy of KUDUOWL
Friday, April 19: Mixology Class featuring Lauren “LP” Paylor of Drink Masters
Saturday, April 20: Mixology Class featuring Lauren “LP” Paylor of Drink Masters
Sunday, April 21: Mixology Class featuring Lauren “LP” Paylor of Drink Masters

Wine Seminars
The following events take place from 4:00 PM to 4:45 PM.

Friday, March 1: Avensole Winery, Sharon Cannon
Saturday, March 2: Avensole Winery, Sharon Cannon
Sunday, March 3: Avensole Winery, Sharon Cannon
Friday, March 8: Kobler Estate Winery, Mike Kobler
Saturday, March 9: Kobler Estate Winery, Mike Kobler
Sunday, March 10: Kobler Estate Winery, Mike Kobler
Friday, March 15: Baja Wine, Jared Gutierrez
Saturday, March 16: Baja Wine, Jared Gutierrez
Sunday, March 17: Baja Wine, Jared Gutierrez
Friday, March 22: Serres Ranch Wine, Taylor Serres
Saturday, March 23: Serres Ranch Wine, Taylor Serres
Sunday, March 24: Serres Ranch Wine, Taylor Serres
Friday, March 29: Lombardi Wines, Tony Lombardi
Saturday, March 30: Lombardi Wines, Tony Lombardi
Sunday, March 31: Lombardi Wines, Tony Lombardi
Friday, April 5: Chenoweth Wines, Amy Chenoweth
Saturday, April 6: Chenoweth Wines, Amy Chenoweth
Sunday, April 7: Chenoweth Wines, Amy Chenoweth
Friday, April 12: Flora Springs Winery & Vineyards, Nat Komes
Saturday, April 13: Flora Springs Winery & Vineyards, Nat Komes
Sunday, April 14: Flora Springs Winery & Vineyards, Nat Komes
Friday, April 19: Brown Estate
Saturday, April 20: Brown Estate
Sunday, April 21: Brown Estate

Soarin’ Over California returns to Disney California Adventure just for the Food & Wine Festival!

You’ve flown around the world, but there’s no place like home. Soarin’ Over California is back to thrill a whole new generation!

The journey begins as the foggy clouds of San Francisco part to reveal the sprawling expanses of the Golden Gate Bridge. Explore picturesque locations including Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Palm Springs, San Diego harbor, Malibu at dusk and the frenetic lights of downtown Los Angeles, before returning for a triumphant flight over Disneyland Park.

No matter your age, you’ll be unable to resist smiling on this pleasant journey filled with excitement, wonder and awe-inspiring vistas.

Ready to experience the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival? Contact me today to book your trip! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical and stress-free vacation.

Opening Day Disney Cast Member Looks Back at Past 50 Years

By

Sara

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February 6, 2024

Opening Day Disney Cast Member Looks Back at Past 50 Years

Pam Flint, an original Cast Member from opening day and who continues to work at Walt Disney World, recently reflected on her experiences over the past 50 years in a new interview with People magazine.

Flint, 72, embarked on her journey as an opening day Cast Member, initially serving as a can-can dancer at The Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom. She vividly remembers October 1, 1971, when the park first opened its gates for operation. “My actual hire date is Sept. 15, 1971, and we had two weeks of rehearsals before Oct. 1,” she reminisces. Flint cherishes the memories of that inaugural day. “Everyone was so excited on day one. We only had 15 people show up to our first show, but it didn’t matter — it was a great show, and we all had a great time.”

class-of-23 — Photo Credit: Pam Flint via People

Over the years, Flint has occupied numerous roles at Walt Disney World, from portraying Miss Claire in the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue to serving as a buying manager, costumer (handling the re-imagining of Fantasyland), project manager, designer, and procurement specialist for costumes aboard the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder for Disney Cruise Line.

A couple of years back, she decided it was time to retire, but Flint found herself back in the fold after only nine months away.

“I got a call […] and they asked me to come back part-time, so I did to help cover holidays and things. And one thing led to another, and they offered me my old job back, and I said, “Okay.” And I’ve been here ever since.”

Presently, she serves as the proprietor of operations costuming at EPCOT, where she manages animatronics and oversees the Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

In 2023, Flint reached the significant milestone of 50 years with Walt Disney World. At the 2024 Disney Service Celebration, an annual event recognizing long-time Cast Members, she was honored alongside others who had achieved similar milestones in their careers. Her previous attendance at the celebration was for her 45th anniversary.

Flint hopes to remain at Walt Disney World Resort as long as she can continue to make a difference. “As long as I’m doing that — making a difference, moving my division forward — I would love to stay.”

Source: People

Walt Disney Presents Refurbishment Removed from Disney World Calendar

By

Sara

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February 6, 2024

Walt Disney Presents Refurbishment Removed from Disney World Calendar

The upcoming refurbishment for Walt Disney Presents at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has been removed from the Disney World refurbishment calendar. It appears the refurbishment has been postponed or canceled.

The attraction originally slated for closure from Monday, February 12, 2024, through March 1, has undergone a change. As of the latest update, the Walt Disney World webpage for Walt Disney Presents no longer lists this closure. Currently, Walt Disney Presents displays its regular operating hours, and the attraction has been omitted from the main operating calendar webpage, which typically indicates closures for refurbishment.

Presently, the only refurbishment closure noted at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, along with its accompanying gift shop, Rock Around the Shop. Both are expected to reopen at some point during the summer.

Situated in Animation Courtyard, Walt Disney Presents provides a captivating journey through 100 years of Walt Disney’s history. Visitors can enjoy a meet and greet with Ariel from the live-action rendition of “The Little Mermaid,” explore an exhibit dedicated to the “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series on Disney+, and catch exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming Disney and Pixar films.

Ready to plan your next visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios? 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 and stress-free vacation!

Mickey Mouse Throw Blanket And Weighted Pillow Now At shopDisney!

By

Ana Leal

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February 5, 2024

Mickey Mouse Throw Blanket And Weighted Pillow Now At shopDisney!

This Mickey Mouse throw blanket and weighted pillow are the perfect products to take home and cozy up in a magical way!

MICKEY MOUSE THROW BLANKET

This woven jacquard cotton throw has a reversible yarn-dyed design. Both sides have an allover print featuring Mickey’s timeless standing pose that will leave you smiling while napping, gaming or channel surfing.

MICKEY MOUSE WEIGHTED PILLOW

This Mickey icon weighted pillow is designed to help reduce stress and aid relaxation. Shaped in the familiar Mickey icon outline, the boucle cushion’s soothing, comforting color will coordinate perfectly with your interior décor and help you rest easily.

Credit: shopDisney

Disneyland Resort Closing Early Due to State of Emergency Issued for Southern California

By

Sara

-

February 5, 2024

Disneyland Resort Closing Early Due to State of Emergency Issued for Southern California

The theme parks at the Disneyland Resort will be closing early again today due to a state of emergency in Southern California. The area is being hit by a severe storm.

Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a State of Emergency for the southern region of California, encompassing eight counties, including Orange County where Disneyland Resort is located. The Anaheim area is currently facing wind and flood advisories due to an atmospheric river, characterized by a significant amount of water vapor in the air resulting in substantial rain and/or snow. PBS News notes that these atmospheric rivers typically have twice the flow of the Amazon River.

Disneyland will be closing at 8 pm tonight instead of the previously scheduled 10 pm. Disney California Adventure will be closing at 8 pm as well, rather than the previously scheduled 9 pm.

Is this storm affecting your trip to Southern California?

If you’d like help planning your next visit to the Disneyland Resort, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

New R2-D2 Loungefly Ear Headband Available At Walt Disney World!

By

Ana Leal

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February 5, 2024

New R2-D2 Loungefly Ear Headband Available At Walt Disney World!

The force is strong with this R2-D2 Loungefly Ear Headband available now around the Walt Disney World Resort, as well as, online at shopDisney for $34.99!

It features white sequined ears with out of this galaxy embroidery on the back of “Beep boop!!” text and the rebel alliance symbol. The satin bow features R2-D2 artwork with a domed black “knot.”

You can take a closer look at these ears in our Instagram post:

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Jason Kelce and family Spotted at Walt Disney World

By

Chris B

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February 5, 2024

Jason Kelce, the celebrated center for the Philadelphia Eagles, was spotted soaking up the magic at Walt Disney World with his family ahead of the NFL Pro Bowl, which was held in Orlando Florida.

Jason, his wife Kylie, and their daughters took a break during a fun-filled day at Magic Kingdom to pose for photos with Mickey and Minnie. The Kelce’s were in town for Jason’s 7th Pro Bowl appearance. While the star Eagle’s center was in town for business, it is clear his kids were more focused on a trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth!

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A post shared by NFL (@nfl)

This was not the first Kelce family trip to Walt Disney World. Jason’s mother Donna posted pics from her room at the Yacht Club on her Instagram two weeks ago, and the family shared photos from a vacation last summer on Instagram.

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A post shared by Donna Kelce (@donnakelce)

Jason’s brother Travis, Tight End for the Kansas City Chiefs, is prepping for an appearance in the Super Bowl on Sunday. The brothers co-host the popular podcast New Heights and were the focus of the Prime Video documentary ‘Kelce’ last year.

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!

Peach Punch Mickey Mouse Starbucks Tumbler Available At Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

-

February 5, 2024

Peach Punch Mickey Mouse Starbucks Tumbler Available At Hollywood Studios!

We spotted the Peach Punch Mickey Mouse Starbucks Tumbler at Hollywood Studios for $29.99. You can also order yours online a shopDisney and spark magical memories with every sip.

It features a beautiful sparkly design with glitter on the inside wall and a metallic rose gold silhouette of Mickey Mouse with the Walt Disney World logo. The lid is peach with a reusable straw. Very cute!

You can take a closer look at it in our Instagram post:

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Chocolate Lovers Rejoice Cadbury World Announces New Ride

By

Chris B

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February 5, 2024

Cadbury World, located in the historic Bournville area of Birmingham, is set to delight chocolate lovers of all ages with the announcement of a brand-new attraction, the Cadbury Chocolate Quest. This adventure will send guests on a mission with Freddo to collect ingredients for a Cadbury Dairy Milk bar. The trackless ride will blend 3D sets and virtual screens, creating a multi-sensory experience with sounds, lights, smells, and heat, culminating in a special Cadbury treat for riders.

This launch is part of a significant £8 million investment by Merlin Entertainments into Cadbury World, aiming to enhance the visitor experience. The investment includes the introduction of the Cadbury Chocolate Quest, replacing the 27-year-old Cadabra ride, and updating other attractions like the Have a Go Zone, the Bournville Experience, and Advertising Avenue.

Tim Waters, Regional Director at Merlin Entertainments, expressed excitement about the new addition, stating it offers families an innovative way to explore the world of chocolate. The Cadbury Chocolate Quest is a key step in expanding Cadbury World’s offerings, promising guests a memorable chocolate adventure.

With this investment, Cadbury World continues to be a premier destination for chocolate lovers, offering interactive zones, a 4D cinema experience, chocolate-making demonstrations, and now the Cadbury Chocolate Quest.

Stitch Products Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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February 5, 2024

Stitch Products Spotted At Hollywood Studios!

We found these fun Stitch Products during our recent visit to Hollywood Studios and just had to share them with you! Some of them are also available online at shopDisney, so let’s check them out:

First we found this Stitch Ear Headband with an all over pattern of Stitch making different faces on the ears and a satin bow with hibiscus flowers and an Stitch charm in the middle.

An adorable fanny pack and tote bag are also available to help you carry all your essentials everywhere you go! They feature different shades of blue and Stitch making fun poses.

For apparel we spotted a Stitch Rain Jacket and Woven Shirt for a mischievous touch to your style!

Finally, we also found a set of hair clips and scrunchy for a fun hairstyle and a Stitch mat to add to your bathroom or bedroom!

They are all amazing and fun products to make part of your Ohana.

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