Walls Up Around the Entrance of Space 220 and Mission: Space

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January 15, 2024

EPCOT has been undergoing a large-scale transformation that has touched nearly every corner of the park. New neighborhoods and gardens have been added, and existing attractions and structures have been refurbished. It appears Mission: Space and Space 220 are next on the list, as construction walls have been added to the area.

The walls are visible at the attractions entrance. No official word on the scope of work necessitating the erection of the walls.

These new walls follow other upgrades to the area, which included a fresh coat of paint as well as this new galaxy mosaic.

Are you a Mission: Space or Space 220 fan? Leave us a comment to let us know!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Chalk Full of Characters Returns to EPCOT Festival of the Arts

By

Chris B

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January 15, 2024

The Festival of the Arts at EPCOT are known for bringing the arts to life, with activities ranging from Broadway performances to a paint-by-numbers mural that invites participation from each and every guest. Chalk Full of Characters, a fan-favorite activity that brings myriad Disney characters to life through chalk drawings located around the park, has returned for this year!

The characters are located all around the world showcase, taking you on a bit of a scavenger hunt to find them all.

Since they are drawn in chalk, there is the chance a character will be unintentionally removed from a wall. At times when this happens, the character is re-drawn in a new location!

There is no prize to be claimed if you find all of the characters, other than a bit of fun and the personal satisfaction of a job well done.

If you want to see every chalk drawing, you will need to find over 20 drawings this year.

Note some are two versions of the same character, such as Dante from Coco appearing as a normal dog as well as as an alebrije.

Do you have a favorite character from this years lineup of drawings? Leave us a comment to let us know!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Water Effects Return to The Seas with Nemo and Friends

By

Chris B

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January 15, 2024

It appears the exterior refurbishment of the Seas With Nemo and Friends at EPCOT is complete. The area has received a fresh coat of paint, the seagulls have been refurbished and returned, and now the water and wave effects have returned!

The much-loved exterior of the ‘Nemo and Friends’ attraction is now back in action, offering guests an immersive experience even before they step inside. The water and wave effects, previously disabled during the refurbishment, are once again creating a lively and realistic atmosphere that captures the essence of the ocean and its wonders.

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Are you a fan of The Seas With Nemo and Friends? Leave us a comment to let us know!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

2024 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Returns After a Long Break

By

Chip

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January 15, 2024

2024 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Returns After a Long Break

Peter Banks from Henderson, Nevada, had dreams of racing at Disneyland Resort, and his debut at The Happiest Place on Earth proved to be a storybook ending. In the Disneyland Half Marathon, Banks, 38, showcased his racing prowess by narrowly defeating Pasadena’s Brandon Wolfe, 32, in a thrilling finish. Although trailing for a significant portion of the race, Banks surged ahead at the last moment, securing his victory with a time of 1:15:02. This marked a four-second lead over defending champion Wolfe (1:15:06) and a 52-second advantage over the third-place finisher, Peter Siess from Dover, New Hampshire (1:15:54).

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Adding to the triumph of the day, Jennifer Masamitsu, 2017 Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon women’s titleholder from Denver, Colorado, crossed the finish line with a stellar time of 1:23:38. Masamitsu demonstrated her enduring excellence, finishing over a minute and 19 seconds ahead of Jamie Weglarz from Fort Myers, Florida (1:24:57), and Brittney Kingsley from Fargo, North Dakota (1:29:19).

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Participants hailing from various corners of the nation and around the world navigated a scenic 13.1-mile course, passing iconic Disneyland Resort locations like Cars Land, Pixar Pal-A-Round, Sleeping Beauty Castle, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This race weekend marked the triumphant return after a seven-year hiatus, creating a memorable experience filled with Disney entertainment, beloved characters, and a sense of camaraderie among runners of diverse ages and skill levels.

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The event wasn’t just about the half marathon; it encompassed a range of activities, including yoga, a 5K, a 10K, kids’ races, and a health and fitness expo. As the perfect culmination of the weekend, runners reveled in the magic of Disneyland Resort, setting the stage for upcoming events like the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend (Feb. 22-26) at Walt Disney World Resort, the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend (Apr. 18–21), and the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend (Sept. 5-8). These races, catering to runners of all fitness levels, offer the unique opportunity to traverse Disney theme parks, enjoy world-class entertainment, and earn coveted Disney-themed medals.

ESPN Returns Dozens of Falsely Obtained Emmy Awards

By

Chip

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January 15, 2024

In a surprising turn of events, ESPN has taken the unprecedented step of returning up to 37 Emmy awards and issuing a formal apology to the organization overseeing the Sports Emmy Awards. The Athletic first broke the story, revealing that ESPN, based in Bristol, had submitted fake names in Emmy entries for categories in which they were ineligible to win. This deceptive practice reportedly dates back to at least 2010, with ESPN admitting wrongdoing and expressing regret.

In a statement, ESPN acknowledged the wrongdoing, saying, “Some members of our team were clearly wrong in submitting certain names that may go back to 1997 in Emmy categories where they were not eligible for recognition or statuettes.” The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS), responsible for the Sports Emmy Awards, uncovered the fraud through an investigation, prompting ESPN to conduct its own probe.

ESPN Returns Dozens of Falsely Obtained Emmy Awards

ESPN clarified that the intention behind the misleading submissions was a misguided attempt to recognize on-air individuals who played crucial roles in their production team. This revelation has raised questions about the authenticity of ESPN’s Emmy wins, as several on-air personalities, including Kirk Herbstreit, Lee Corso, and Desmond Howard from “College GameDay,” were allegedly given awards they were not entitled to, according to The Associated Press.

The scheme appears to revolve around ESPN’s “College GameDay” show, which won eight Emmys for Outstanding Weekly Studio Show in 2008. However, NATAS guidelines, until 2023, prohibited on-air talent from being included in a credit list for that category. The rules aimed to prevent front-facing talent from winning multiple awards for the same work, known as “double-dipping.”

While ESPN personalities received individual awards, such as Outstanding Host, Studio Analyst, or Emerging On-Air Talent, they were not eligible to claim a trophy for the show’s win. The revelation has prompted ESPN to take corrective measures, including returning falsely obtained trophies. ESPN has also engaged external counsel to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. The on-air winners allegedly had no knowledge of the fraudulent submissions. ESPN’s attempt to recognize its team’s contributions has led to a significant backlash and a reevaluation of its Emmy Awards legacy.

Hong Kong Disneyland Gets a Super Cute Groot Popcorn Bucket

By

Sara

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January 15, 2024

Hong Kong Disneyland Gets a Super Cute Groot Popcorn Bucket

The Hong Kong Disneyland Resort once again gets something all US Disney park goers are envious of. A super cute Groot popcorn bucket has sprouted up at the parks and we wish we could get our hands on one!

The cutest popcorn bucket in the galaxy has arrived in Tomorrowland at Hong Kong Disneyland. The base looks like a white plant pot and the words “I am Groot”. Groot is planted in the pot, wearing headphones, and appears to be dancing to whatever he’s listening to. The bucket comes with a blue carrying strap.

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This is just another souvenir we wish Disney would bring to the US parks from overseas!

Ready to plan your next Disney vacation? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

Figment Spaceship Earth Show Returns to Festival of the Arts

By

Sara

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January 15, 2024

Figment Spaceship Earth Show Returns to Festival of the Arts

The Figment Spaceship Earth show has returned to Epcot for the Festival of the Arts! This nighttime show lights up Spaceship Earth periodically after sunset.

The light display draws inspiration not only from Figment but also from the original Journey Into Imagination ride. It commences with the voice of the Dreamfinder singing excerpts from “One Little Spark,” the theme song of the ride, particularly from the art section of the original ride. As Dreamfinder mentions various colors, the lights on Spaceship Earth undergo corresponding changes.

Subsequently, vibrant hexagons and stripes seem to dance around Spaceship Earth. Certain lights transform into stars. Dreamfinder and Figment then perform the “One Little Spark” stanza, focusing on theatrical performances and alluding to costumes and sets.

While Figment serenades the “Imagination” chorus from “One Little Spark,” the lights persist in their lively dance, enveloping Spaceship Earth in a cascade of white stars. The sphere is then adorned with a spectrum of colors that harmonize with the song’s lyrics and beats.

Concluding the Figment light show, a mesmerizing display of white stars forms a captivating swirl across and around Spaceship Earth. This enchanting spectacle of the Figment Spaceship Earth light show can be enjoyed from the park’s entrance area or from World Celebration Gardens on the opposite side of Spaceship Earth.

Ready to experience Epcot International Festival of the Arts in person? Contact me today to start planning 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 vacation.

Lookout Cay Port Adventures Coming to Disney Cruise Line All New Lighthouse Point

By

Sara

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January 14, 2024

Lookout Cay Port Adventures Coming to Disney Cruise Line All New Lighthouse Point

Disney Cruise Line’s new Lighthouse Point is opening later this year for guests to enjoy. Guests can venture beyond Disney Lookout Cay to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera with an exciting collection of all-new adventures—specially developed in partnership with local tour operators. From biking and kayaking along the island’s pristine coastline, to snorkeling through tropical reefs or exploring mystical caves and lush forest aboard an off-road buggy—exciting adventures await guests at every turn.

Take a look at just a few of the port adventures available at Lookout Cay.

Private Historical and Cultural Tour

Hit the road with friends and family on a 4-hour adventure exploring the island’s highlights.

On this adventure you will…

Embark on an unforgettable excursion through South Eleuthera via a private SUV and experience the freedom of following your own itinerary at your own pace.
Relax in an air-conditioned SUV, complete with a driver-guide who will share points of interest and historical facts along the way.
Meet your private driver-guide at Mabrika Cove Tram Stop and discuss what you would like to see and do. Alternatively, let your driver-guide customize an itinerary that makes the most of your day in port. Some of the highlights around South Eleuthera include Ocean Hole, Cathedral Cave, Pink Beach and Rock Sound Shipping Dock and Market.

Bahama Bank Escape

Relaxation and endless fun await—snorkel the pristine waters, float above the waves under the shade of an umbrella and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

On this adventure you will…

Meet your guide at Turbit Berth. Then take a short walk down to the marina where your catamaran awaits.
Depart the marina and sail 15 to 20 minutes to the scenic Bahama Bank, or a similar site based on weather and sea conditions.
Dive into crystal-clear waters alongside your safety snorkelers. Relax on a floating mat under the shade of an umbrella or snorkel amid underwater life. Water toys are available.
After a little over an hour exploring the wonders below the surface, board your vessel and sail back to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point—along the way, enjoy a cup of nonalcoholic fruit punch.

Banana Boat

Expect to get wet during this fun-filled, splash-a-second, thrill-seekers water adventure.

On this adventure you will…

Your adventure begins at Turbit Berth. Here, you’ll meet your guide, receive a safety briefing and don your lifejacket before taking a short walk down to the marina.
Board the Banana Boat and hold on tight for a thrilling ride around the shores of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Take in the amazing views of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point as you are towed in the wake of a motor boat.
After your fun adventure, return to Turbit Berth.

Historical Nature and Awesome Buggy Tour

Discover paradise found during a stop at Gaulding Cay, one of the island’s most alluring white-sand beaches.

On this adventure you will…

Meet your experienced guide at the Mabrika Cove Tram Stop to pick up your equipment and receive a safety briefing.
Board a 4-person buggy and embark on an exhilarating adventure through scenic routes and off-road trails. Immersed in breathtaking natural surroundings, enjoy lush vegetation, coastal views and pristine beaches.
Make a stop at Gaulding Cay, one of the area’s most alluring white-sand beaches. Here, you can explore the shores, soak up the sun or take a dip in the clear turquoise waters.
Continue your buggy adventure through diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, rocky terrains, and dense forests.
Park your buggy and enjoy a short walk to the lighthouse, a historic landmark offering panoramic views of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Snap a few pictures or just soak up the ambience of the area before returning to Bannerman Town.

These are just a few of the exciting port adventures guests can experience at Lighthouse Point starting later this year!

Ready to plan your next cruise to Lighthouse Point? 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.

Yummy New Burgers Debut at the Disneyland Resort

By

Sara

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January 14, 2024

Yummy New Burgers Debut at the Disneyland Resort

Two tasty new burgers have arrived at the Disneyland Resort! One can be found at Galactic Grill at Disneyland while the other is at Flo’s V8 Cafe in Disney California Adventure.

In Tomorrowland at Galactic Grill you’ll find the Meteorite Medley Burger. It’s a burger made with Angus Beef & Vegetable Patty, Spiced Bacon, Smoky Chimichurri Relish, Avocado Mayo, Havarti, and Crispy Peppers on a Toasted Brioche Bun. The burger is available through mobile order.

In Cars Land at Flo’s V8 Cafe you can try the new Ka-Cheeseburger. This burger is made (choice of Angus Beef & Mushroom Patty or Angus Beef Patty) with Cheddar, 1000 Island, and Caramelized Onions on a Toasted Bun. Mobile order is also available for this burger.

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Do either of these new burgers sound good to you?

If you’d like to plan your next visit to Disneyland to try these burgers, 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.

Disney World Extends Theme Park Hours in Late January and February 2024

By

Sara

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January 14, 2024

Disney World Extends Theme Park Hours in Late January and February 2024

Three of the four parks at Walt Disney World have extended their theme park hours in late January and February this year. Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom have all extended their operating hours.

The initial schedule for Magic Kingdom had set its daily opening time at 9 a.m. from January 28 through February 3. However, there have been adjustments, and now the park will open at 8 a.m. on January 29, February 1, and February 3. Additionally, the closing time, originally set at 9 p.m. on most days, has been extended to 10 p.m. on January 28 and February 1, and to 11 p.m. on January 30, January 31, February 2, and February 3.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will experience earlier opening times on specific days. Initially set to open at 9 a.m. on January 29, February 2, and February 3, the schedule has been modified, and the park will now open at 8 a.m. on these particular days. The closing time will remain unchanged at 9 p.m.

There have been adjustments to the daily operating hours of Disney’s Animal Kingdom from January 28 to February 24. Initially slated to be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, the park will now open at 8 a.m. every day. Additionally, on January 28, February 1, February 2, and February 3, the park will extend its closing time by an extra hour, remaining open until 7 p.m. on these specific dates.

Will you be visiting Walt Disney World in the next month or so?

If you’d like to plan your next trip to Disney World, 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.

“First Wave” River Cruise to Holland & Belgium for DVC Members

By

Sara

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January 14, 2024

“First Wave” River Cruise to Holland & Belgium for DVC Members

A new Member-exclusive sailing is coming to Adventures by Disney. DVC members can experience “First Wave” River Cruise to Holland & Belgium in 2025!

Brussels City Hall and Mont des Arts area at sunset in Brussels, Belgium

Eligible Disney Vacation Club Members can be among the first to experience this brand-new river cruise adventure.

Departing on June 28, 2025, Members can enjoy light touches of Membership Magic, including a special guest who will inspire you to unleash your inner artist onboard this 7-night sailing through Amsterdam, Brussels and more. Booking begins online on February 21, 2024 at 10 a.m. ET.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations and an array of exciting activities—plus the world-class service and signature storytelling expected when traveling with Adventures by Disney.

Immerse yourself in all that Holland and Belgium have to offer with this carefully crafted river cruise vacation that explores a wide range of special interests:

Rich History & Culture: Wander through medieval castles, fascinating museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the 18th-century village Kinderdijk, home to 19 preserved windmills and dozens of canals.
World-Renowned Art: Marvel at the artistry and architecture of cities that inspired iconic Dutch painters like Vermeer and Rembrandt—among others—as you tour artisan workshops, Gothic churches and handicraft markets in old town squares.
Fine Dining & Local Cuisine: Indulge in delicious Belgian chocolate, explore historic breweries, visit famous cheese farms and embark on a host of tastings, where you’ll sample buttery baked goods, local beer, charcuterie nibbles and more.
Immersive Storytelling: Enjoy private tours and exciting workshops led by Adventure Guides and local experts, who will share stories of the people, cultures and traditions you’ll encounter on your trip.

Plus

A Special Member Experience: Enjoy light touches of Membership Magic from Disney Vacation Club, including a Special Guest who will inspire your inner artist.

Marvel at the works of true masters in art, engineering and gastronomy as you stroll through timeless European cities.

Glide down picturesque canals, discover traditional Dutch architecture and delight in delicious local treats like the Netherlands’ iconic stroopwafels. Visit spectacular sites such as windmills, castles, museums and much more!

Explore the scheduled itinerary for this 2025 Member-exclusive adventure:

Saturday, June 28, 2025 – Amsterdam
Sunday, June 29, 2025 – Amsterdam to Utrecht
Monday, June 30, 2025 – Kinderdijk & Rotterdam
Tuesday, July 1, 2025 – Ghent & Bruges
Wednesday, July 2, 2025 – Brussels
Thursday, July 3, 2025 – Antwerp
Friday, July 4, 2025 – Delft & Gouda
Saturday, July 5, 2025 – Amsterdam

Online booking opens on February 21, 2024 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time.

To ensure a smooth online booking experience, please have information on hand about yourself and each person sailing with your party, including:

Member ID Number
First, second and third stateroom category choices, as popular options sell out quickly for this event
Party size
Number of adults and children

You can find more information about this new river cruise here.

Festival of the Arts Photopass Magic Shots Not to be Missed!

By

Catherine

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January 13, 2024

Can’t miss Festival of the Arts Photopass Magic Shots

Explore your artistic flair, treat your taste buds to delectable dishes, and immerse yourself in captivating entertainment, and beyond at EPCOT—January 12 to February 19, 2024! The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is now underway, featuring not only exceptional food, entertainment, and artwork, but also introducing thrilling new and returning Disney PhotoPass experiences throughout the park for guests to enjoy.

Throughout the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, vibrant themed photo opportunities will be scattered around the park. Guests can discover that special spark by capturing moments with enchanting Magic Shots featuring the beloved Figment during the festival.
Capture the whimsy of Figment Rainbow Chalk Art at Disney PhotoPass locations in World Showcase and near the waterfall close to Journey into Imagination with Figment.

Unleash your creativity with Light Painting – paint with all the colors in this Magic Shot! Find it near the planter across from the popcorn cart closest to Creations Shop in the new World Celebration area. Also, don’t miss the enchanting Figment and Mickey Mouse Glow Magic Shot, available at the main entrance of the park to the left and right during nighttime hours.

Experience the magic of flight with Figment Wings! This enchanting Magic Shot is offered by Disney PhotoPass photographers at various locations:

Near the planter close to the Disney Vacation Club kiosk heading onto the main bridge into World Showcase as you leave World Celebration.
Near the waterfall close to Journey into Imagination with Figment.
In the center of the new World Celebration area facing Spaceship Earth.

Transform every moment into a masterpiece with the Artist Desk Collage Magic Shot! You can discover this enchanting experience at the following locations:

Near the planter close to the Disney Vacation Club kiosk heading onto the main bridge into World Showcase as you leave World Celebration.
Near the waterfall close to Journey into Imagination with Figment.
In the center of the new World Celebration area facing Spaceship Earth

Unleash your inner artist with the Easel Magic Shot! Paint your way into this delightful experience, located in the center of the new World Celebration area facing Spaceship Earth.

Color us excited! We can’t wait to take get our photos taken with all these amazing Magic Shots! Have you visited Epcot for the Festival of Arts yet? Show us your Magic Shot photos in the comments below!

Color us excited, #EPCOT International Festival of the Arts begins today! 🎨 You don’t have to 💜imagine💜 these Magic Shots — they’re now… | Instagram