The Disneyland Hotel at Disneyland Paris is set to reopen on January 25th, and it’s bringing back the Royal Banquet restaurant with a bang. This dining location is a magical place inspired by real castle reception rooms, where guests will feel like they’re attending a royal feast straight out of their favorite Disney stories. We have your first look ready for you!
Disney Imagineers and animators have teamed up to create a unique dining experience. Each piece of artwork in the restaurant is exclusively made for this place, showcasing a variety of Disney characters. The Prologue dining room, for example, lets you see characters like Arthur from “The Sword in the Stone” and young Kida from “Atlantis: The Lost Empire” at the start of their adventures.
And what’s a Disney story without a touch of villainy? In the Antechamber, you’ll come across portraits of Disney’s most memorable villains, like King Magnifico from “Wish” and the Queen from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”
Don’t miss the Carousel room, where you’ll find portraits of Disney’s famous steeds, like Maximus from “Tangled” and Sven from “Frozen.” Ready for the cherry on top? You can meet and dine with Mickey, Minnie, and their friends, all dressed in their finest regal attire!
So, mark your calendars for January 25th and stay tuned for more magical updates about Disneyland Paris. Remember, you need a valid reservation to experience this royal dining adventure!
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!
All-New Figment Popcorn Bucket Available for Mobile Ordering
Great News! If you are heading to the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts which officially starts today you can Mobile Order the all-new Figment Popcorn bucket!
We checked the Walt Disney World app this morning hoping that we could avoid the long lines from years past of the Figment Popcorn bucket, and sure enough, Figgy was there!
Pixar’s Pete Docter Excited for ‘Soul,’ ‘Luca,’ and ‘Turning Red’ to Hit Theaters
Disney is re-releasing three films in theaters for the first time ever and Pixar’s Pete Docter is excited for the fans to get the chance to see them in a whole new way.
2020’s Soul, 2021’s Luca and 2022’s Turning Red are having special engagement theatrical runs this year with Soul hitting theaters this weekend. Docter—who is the Chief Creative Officer at Pixar—is excited to present them the way they were meant to be seen: on the big screen.
Disney sat down with Docter and talked about how the theatrical experience adds to the films, which one is best to see in theaters and why Anxiety could become the breakout star of this summer’s Inside Out 2.
Pixar’s Soul, Luca, and Turning Red are heading to theaters with Soul debuting on January 12. All these films are available on Disney+. So why release them in theaters?
They were made to be seen on the big screen. Every frame has been pored over by the artists and technicians here, and it’s a different experience. Hopefully, people have seen them on Disney+, and we’re very thankful to have had that platform to release them because otherwise the pandemic would have put them on the shelf.
But we’re really excited for people to go back to theaters with their friends and see it together. The scale and the community are all reasons to go.
How does the theatrical experience add to the enjoyment of these films? Let’s use Soul as an example.
If you remember the film, our main character Joe falls through a manhole and he’s in this weird abstract space and on your screen, it looks cool. However, on a big screen in a theater, it takes up the whole wall, and you’re immersed into this weird world. Then there’s the sound design, too… When you hear it all around you, it is just a different beast. It’s amazing.
These films are hits on Disney+. Do you think putting them in theaters is going to deepen that popularity?
Well, I hope so. I’m old enough to remember a time before home video, before streaming, and the only chance you had to see a film like a Pinocchio or One Hundred and OneDalmatians was when it came out every couple of years in theaters. Even though I’d seen them before, it was always just a great new experience to go see these movies.
I think people will see things that they didn’t even notice. You see it on the big screen and you’re like, “Whoa, the detail there, that’s crazy.” There’s just a lot to see in those movies.
And, you know, as we’re working on these movies, we’re watching the same movie for years, so it’s packed with all sorts of inside jokes and details. There’s just a lot to see.
Which one do you think is the best to see on the big screen?
Well, I directed Soul, so I’m biased, but it really depends on what you’re into. For me, my goal in making Soul was I wanted people to be entertained, but at the end of the movie, go, “Oh yeah, we have to go get some ice cream and talk about this,” because while it’s fun it also asks questions like, “What is your passion?” “What makes you so driven in your life and is that what you’re all about?” “Is that what life is all about?” So, there are some big questions that I think—in a perfect world—will spark discussion among friends.
Turning Red is obviously super fun. It’s like going back to middle school with all the triumphs and tribulations of that. Then obviously Luca is kind of like going on summer vacation. Go out to the theater and spend some time in Italy. Sure, you go there in your mind, but you may come out relaxed.
It really depends on what you’re looking for.
Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red.
As the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar, what are your hopes for the animation studio this year?
We have Inside Out 2 coming out on June 14 and I’m really excited about that. It’s expanded from the first film. At the end of the first film, Joy says, “Riley is 12 now. I mean, what could happen?” And obviously, we know a lot can happen when you turn 12 and 13 and so on. It’s coming together really well and it’s a lot of fun.
Inside Out was a personal film for you. What do you think will make the sequel special?
Kelsey Mann—who’s directing it—found this idea of adding anxiety, which is very prevalent emotion in the world today. It is very tumultuous, and it’s a little bit like sadness where you’re like, “Why is this a good thing?” You know, it just feels very negative. I would love to get rid of anxiety. And so, we’re plumbing the depths of that in the same way we did with the first film.
We’re talking with a lot of psychologists and scientists to figure out, “What is anxiety for?” “How does it benefit us?” “How does it hurt us?” And the character—who’s voiced by Maya Hawke—fits right in with the original team.
Are you as excited as Pete Docter to see Soul, Turning Red, and Luca in theaters? Will you be paying extra money to see these films on the big screen or do you enjoy them just fine in the comforts of your home? We want to hear your thoughts on the release of these Pixar films in theaters.
This year, The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, D23 Expo will return to Anaheim from August 9 through 11. This event will showcase the company’s major brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and much, much more.
For those who can’t attend the event in person, don’t fret! It will be live streamed on Disney+.
It’s been announced that tickets for the event will be going on sale on March 26th 2024, with more details on pre-sale and prices coming nearer the time.
This year’s event is going to see some changes; while the main show will still take place at the Anaheim Convention Center, which is on the other side of the street from the Disneyland Resort, this year, the main showcase presentations will take place in the evenings at the Honda Center.
In the past, Disney has streamed panels from the main hall on YouTube and social media. This year, they’re set to stream parts of the event on Disney+, marking a shift from previous events. Despite small highlight videos at the last D23 Expo, this year’s plans aim to elevate the event, with Disney’s chief brand officer referring to it as their “Superbowl.”
Disney chief brand officer Asad Ayaz said, “It’s akin to our very own Super Bowl or Comic Con weekend, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for your brands to connect with fans of all ages and families from across the globe.”
Historically, main panels included studio showcases with new announcements, legends presentations, and theme park updates. These panels unveil Disney’s future content and park plans. Making them accessible to more fans through in-person attendance or Disney+ streaming benefits both the company and its audience.
A notable showcase is the Disney Legends presentation, honoring key contributors. In the last D23 Expo, stars from “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Black-ish,” and “Frozen” were inducted into Disney’s Hall of Fame.
Keep in mind only “portions” of the event will be streamed on Disney+. Some announcements or panels will be kept just for those at the Expo. This event makes Disney a lot of money so they’ll want to ensure people still attend in person.
The upcoming D23 event will feature Disney+ integrations, building on the focus from the past two Expos. While the specific details remain unclear, the event promises a new interactive app, musical performances, a unique shopping experience, and special presentations. Additionally, a special celebration day precedes the Ultimate Fan Event at Disneyland Resort on August 8th, 2024.
Are you planning on attending D23 Expo later this year?
If you’d like help planning your visit to D23 Expo, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.
Disneyland Cast Members to Receive New Nametag Design
Disneyland Cast Members are receiving a new nametag design! In 2023 the nametags were themed to the Disney100 celebration. This year, they are more colorful and bright.
Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock had the following to say about the new nametags:
“When asked about inspiration for our new nametag, I immediately thought of our DisneylandForward initiative and the desire to bring new stories, entertainment and experiences to our fans. It’s a special time as we dream about what the next decades could bring to The Happiest Place on Earth, and the team did an amazing job representing our optimism in this new design.
Using bright colors, Disneyland Resort landmarks and plenty of pixie dust – the costume design & development team created an exciting design that represents the energy our cast members bring to making magic for our guests.”
Disney nametags represent a longstanding tradition that all cast members share. Whether working onstage, backstage or off-site, nametags are worn with great pride and a sense of responsibility to create joy and inspiration for all who visit Disneyland Resort.
Over the years, the nametags have evolved to celebrate cast members and their Disneyland Resort achievements. Still, they continue to represent Walt’s vision of hospitality: friendly cast members who make intentional connections with guests and create magical memories every day.
Food & Drink Guide to Lunar New Year Festival at Disney California Adventure
The Lunar New Year Festival is returning to Disney California Adventure from January 23 to February 18! This year is the Year of the Dragon and the Disney culinary teams have brought out the creativity to bring you delicious delights inspired by the traditions and cuisines of Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures.
Bamboo Blessings (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Strawberry Milk Tea Macaron: Strawberry buttercream with milk tea center (New)
Mickey-shaped Hot Dog Bun: Brioche-style Mickey-shaped bun stuffed with hot dog and finished with sesame seeds and scallions
Taro Vietnamese-style Iced Coffee: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. Vietnamese-style Coffee, cocoa powder, and condensed milk garnished with a taro chocolate sweet cream (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Lunar New Year Punch: Mango nectar, tangerine and grapefruit juices, and banana and coconut syrups garnished with mango jellies (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Lunar Punch Cocktail: Coconut rum, mango nectar, tangerine and grapefruit juices, and banana and coconut syrups garnished with a purple orchid (New)
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Longevity Noodle Co. (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Shrimp Lo Mein Noodles: Pan-fried lo mein noodles with sautéed shrimp garnished with green onions (New)
Garlic Noodles: Long noodles tossed in zesty garlic butter with parmesan
Dragon Cocktail: Dragonberry rum, white rum, lychee nectar, dragon fruit and Chinese five-spice syrups, lime juice, and house-made coriander tea garnished with a dried dragon fruit wheel
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lucky 8 Lantern (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Quesabirria Eggroll with guajillo pepper consomé
Mandarin Orange Mousse Cake: Layers of mandarin mousse with vanilla cake and clementine compote finished with white chocolate crunch balls and a tangerine glaze
Hibiscus Apple Soju-rita: Blanco tequila, grapefruit liqueur, soju, green apple and hibiscus syrups, house-made hibiscus tea, and lemon juice garnished with a dried apple chip (New)
Mango Melon Cocktail: Overproof rum, baijiu, allspice liqueur, mango nectar, rock melon syrup, and lime juice topped with grapefruit soda and garnished with a lime wheel (New)
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Prosperity Bao & Buns (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Kung Pao Bao with plant-based chicken, toasted peanuts, and scallions (New)
BBQ Pork Bun with kimchi mayo and garlic chile crunch (New)
Brewery X Grapefruit Panda Pool Party Bamboo Rice Lager (New)
Harland Brewing Co. Tangerine Dragon Fruit Hefeweizen (New)
Stereo Brewing Co. Jasmine Tea Lager (New)
Eagle Rock Brewery Lychee IPA (New)
Dragon Beer Flight (New)
Tsingtao with Frozen Mango Beer Foam
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Red Dragon Spice Traders (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Spicy Fried Rice with tofu and crispy peas (New)
Red Spice Fried Chicken Bites: Fried chicken chicharrones in spicy red chile sauce
Peach Basil Collins: Gin, ginger liqueur, white peach purée, lemon juice, and house-made Thai basil syrup topped with Topo Chico and garnished with a purple pansy (New)
Guava Whiskey Cocktail: Whiskey, ginger liqueur, guava nectar, coconut cream, and lime juice garnished with a lime wheel
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Wrapped with Love (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Fried Lemongrass Chicken Dumplings with plum sauce (New)
Steamed Pork & Vegetable Dumplings with black garlic sauce (New)
Yuja-Pineapple Cooler: Pineapple juice, yuja purée, rice milk, and condensed milk garnished with a cherry and coconut foam (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Raspberry Oat Milk Tea: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. Ceylon Tea, raspberry and demerara syrups, and oat milk garnished with skewered raspberries (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)
Throughout Disney California Adventure Park
Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
Bulgogi Pizza: Marinated beef and spicy corn, cheese sauce topped with green onion (Available by slice or whole pie) (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29)
Milk Tea Taro Cheesecake: Milk tea cheesecake with a taro mousse (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Cappuccino Cart (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Dalgona Coffee Bundt Cake: Coffee Bundt cake filled with sweet milk and topped with Dalgona foam
Green Tea Horchata (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Blood Orange Cocktail: Baijiu, orange liquor, yuja purée and blood orange syrup, with a spicy sugar rim
Lamplight Lounge (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Spicy Dan Dan Noodles: Crispy pork belly and noodles tossed in spicy Szechuan sauce paired with carrots, cucumber, and crispy shallots garnished with green onions and micro cilantro (New)
Milk Tea and Taro Donuts: Warm, fluffy donuts dipped in milk tea, drizzled with taro icing, garnished with boba with milk tea dipping sauce (New)
Lunar New Year Cocktail: Han Soju, Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur, dragon fruit syrup, lemon juice, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, and firewater bitters with mint garnish (New)
Kung Pao Bao: Kung pao-glazed crispy pork belly, soft bao bun, red peppers, toasted peanuts, and green onions
Lunar New Year Cocktail: Han Soju, Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur, dragon fruit syrup, lemon juice, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, and firewater bitters with mint garnish (New)
Paradise Garden Grill (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Bulgogi Fried Rice with kimchi, egg, pickled cucumber, green onion, and sesame seeds (New) (Plant-based)
Whole Fish with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and black vinegar and soy sauce with sugar, garlic, and red Fresno chile (Served family-style for sharing for two) (New)
Shrimp Lo Mein: Lo mein noodles tossed with shrimp, mushrooms, cabbage, corn, and bell pepper (New)
Pork Banh Mi Sandwich: Grilled pork belly with pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, and jalapeño with spicy mayo
Korean-style BBQ Chicken served with steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled cucumber
Korean-style Chicken: Marinated chicken served with steamed rice and broccoli (Disney Check Kids Meal)
Mango Pudding with a hint of coconut milk topped with mango and a chocolate décor
Tiger Milk Boba Tea with Brown Sugar Boba (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Yuja Makgeolli Cocktail: Citrus-flavored rice wine, soju, and a splash of Sprite
Four Sons Brewing Lucky Dragon IPA
Pym Test Kitchen (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Almond Cold Brew: Almond cold brew, almond milk, and red foam with blue and gold sugar (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Sonoma Terrace (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)
Gochugaru Shrimp Roll: Gochugaru-marinated shrimp on a potato roll with kimchi slaw, gochujang mayonnaise, spicy pickle spear (New)
Studio Catering Co. and Hollywood Lounge (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available at Studio Catering Co. only)
Char Siu-style Ribs: Char siu-braised pork ribs with Asian-inspired glaze topped with roasted peanuts and scallions (New)
Terran Treats (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Strawberry Green Tea Churro: Green tea-cinnamon sugar-dusted churro with strawberry cream sauce topped with freeze-dried strawberries (New)
Select Outdoor Vending Carts (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Chicken Bao: Steamed bao with chicken, butternut squash, and makrut lime served with Vietnamese sweet tangy dipping sauce
Baked Brown Sugar Nian Gao: Baked sticky rice cake topped with brown sugar (New)
Char Siu Turkey Leg (New)
Cantaritos Mandarin (New)
Harland Brewing Co. Lunar Maps Hazy IPA (New)
Almond Cookie Churro: Coated in almond cookie crumble and topped with roasted almonds and almond icing
Churros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Orange-Ginger Churro: Churro rolled in ginger sugar topped with orange sauce, candied ginger, and black and white sesame seeds (New)
Willie’s Churros (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Dragon Fruit Churro: Churro rolled in coconut-dragon fruit sugar topped with a dragon fruit icing (New)
Novelties Available Across Disneyland Resort
Lunar New Year Stainless Steel Tumbler: Includes choice of fountain beverage at time of purchase (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations:
At Disney California Adventure park: Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, Cappuccino Cart, Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, select outdoor vending carts, Paradise Garden Grill, Smokejumpers Grill, Studio Catering Co.
Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations:
At Disney California Adventure park: Bayside Brews, Cappuccino Cart, Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Hollywood Lounge, select outdoor vending carts, Paradise Garden Grill
At Disneyland park: Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, Little Red Wagon, and Refreshment Corner
Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (Available starting Jan. 23; limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations:
At Disney California Adventure park: Corn Dog Castle, Mortimers Market, Outdoor Vending Carts, Paradise Garden Grill, Schmoozies!, select outdoor vending, Smokejumpers Grill
Hotels of the Disneyland Resort
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
GCH Craftsman Bar (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29)
Pork Dan Dan Noodles: Crispy pork with egg noodles, sweet chili sauce, peanuts, and scallions (New)
Goofy’s Kitchen (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Shrimp Stir Fry with noodles, garlic, and ginger (New)
Pork Bao Bun (New)
Chicken Dumpling Soup (New)
Garlic Rice with soy sauce and scallions (New) (Plant-based)
Downtown Disney District
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Lucky Dragon: Vodka, lemon juice, egg white, and dragon fruit syrup (New)
Kayla’s Cake (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Milk Tea Mochi Egg Tart: Milk tea infused cream topped with mochi on a caramelized custard tart (New)
Korean Injeolmi Macarons: Sweet Injeolmi buttercream filling finished with roasted soybean powder (New)
Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Banh Mi Pizza: Neapolitan dough, mozzarella cheese, marinated pork, pickled carrot and daikon radish, raw jalapeño, cilantro, and drizzles of Vietnamese mayonnaise and chili sauce (New)
Dragon Eye Punch Mocktail: Beet juice, strawberry, grenadine, blood orange syrups, and dragon eye fruit (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Dragon’s Breath Cocktail: Whiskey, elderflower liqueur, triple sec, and simple syrup garnished with a tangerine peel and a smoke top finish (New)
Splitsville Luxury Lanes (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Walnut Shrimp: Lightly fried shrimp with a crispy texture and tossed in a sweet lemon glaze and served with sautéed broccoli on a bed of rice and garnished with candied walnuts and scallions (New)
Tortilla Jo’s (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Sweet and Sour Ribs: Sweet and sour ribs served with white rice and Napa cabbage slaw (New)
Dragontail Mocktail: Non-alcoholic organic margarita mix, pineapple juice, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine garnished with a paper dragon flag with two cherries and an orange wedge (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New)
Breathing Fire Cocktail: Peach schnapps, peppermint schnapps, melon liqueur, orange juice, pineapple, and a splash of grenadine garnished with three cherries (New)
Wetzel’s Pretzels (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)
Lucky Red Envelope with Special Wetzel’s Pretzels Offering: Receive a lucky red envelope with a special in-app offer with any purchase (Available while supplies last)
What an exciting (and delicious) Lunar New Year ahead of us! I can’t wait to kick off the Year of the Dragon with these eats and sips coming to Disneyland Resort.
Ready to celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Disneyland Resort? Contact me to start planning your visit! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
Embark on a heartfelt celebration of Disney magic with Walt Disney Animation Studios’ latest animated gem, “Wish.” Soon to be within reach for families to savor in the comfort of their homes, this joyous addition to the studio’s illustrious animated film legacy promises a delightful experience.
Fans can look forward to a sing-along movie version, along with exclusive bonus features and deleted scenes, making their debut when the film hits major digital platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu on January 23.
Additionally, the enchanting journey of “Wish” will be available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD starting March 12. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic!
Sing Along With The Movie Sing along with your favorite songs while watching the movie with on-screen lyrics.
Featurette: Once Upon A Studio Beloved characters from Disney Animation’s 100 years come together for an unforgettable reunion.
100 Years In The Making – The Inside story on the making of Wish
What Makes Disney, Disney Learn what makes a Disney film and its characters so distinct, memorable and beloved. Discover how Asha and WISH are quintessentially Disney — from the extraordinary challenges Asha must overcome, to the magical, Kingdom of Rosa
The Wish Equation What is a wish? Join the filmmakers for a surprising conversation as they break down the “Wish Equation,” discuss the “rules of magic,” and describe the role music plays in Disney films. Then hear Julia Michaels’ own original demo of “This Wish.”
Looking Backward To Go Forward Walk the aisles of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library as the filmmakers “draw” inspiration from 100 years of animation. Learn about the “Pinocchio test,” and how Wish’s design blends new technology with classic techniques.
Where Dreams And Reality Collide Discover the times and places that were the inspiration for Rosas and helped build the world of this original fairy tale.
Asha Means Wish Learn all about Asha, from her inspired design to her boundless determination and generosity. Uncover the subtle symbolism in her jewelry, and dive into her dancing skills. See how she’s imperfectly perfect and what makes her a memorable Disney hero.
The Return Of The Disney Villain You’ll love to hate King Magnifico when you uncover his secrets. Find out what makes him the classic Disney villain — and why he doesn’t wear a crown.
Star Is Born Uncover early concept drawings to see how Star evolved into Asha’s lovable wish facilitator. Learn about Star’s sparkles, and why Star can communicate with Asha and the other characters.
Those Who Stand Beside Me Learn more about Asha’s closest allies, Dahlia and Valentino. Find out which of Snow White’s seven companions served as inspiration for Dahlia, and how Valentino breaks one of the rules of Disney animals.
When Wishes Come True Get to know the kids inside the filmmakers as the creators of WISH reflect on what Disney movies meant to them growing up, and what it’s like being part of the Disney legacy today.
Featurette: WISH D-Classified WISH is filled with references and nods to other Disney films from the studio’s 100-year legacy. From hidden Mickeys to more subtle tributes, you may have caught many of them, but check out this “D-Classified” piece for ones you may have missed.
Featurette: Outtakes Step inside the recording booth with the brilliant and talented actors of WISH for some creative fun as they bring their characters to life.
Featurette: Deleted Song “A Wish Worth Making” Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn introduce this poignant song sung by Saba Sabino (voiced by Victor Garber) expressing what it’s like to be reunited with your one true wish.
Deleted Scenes – Check out some scenes that didn’t make the Final Cut.
Magnifico’s Secret
The Wishing Tree
To Rosas
Finding Flazino
Valentino Is A Star
Song Selection – Jump to your favorite musical moments, with on-screen lyrics.
Voice Cast Ariana DeBose as Asha Chris Pine as King Magnifico Alan Tudyk as Valentino Angelique Cabral as Queen Amaya Victor Garber as Sabino Natasha Rothwell as Sakina Jennifer Kumiyama as Dahlia Evan Peters as Simon Harvey Guillén as Gabo Ramy Youssef as Safi Niko Vargas as Hal Jon Rudnitsky as Dario Della Saba as Bazeema
Directed by Chris Buck Fawn Veerasunthorn
Produced by Peter Del Vecho Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster Jones
Screenplay by Jennifer Lee Allison Moore
Story by Jennifer Lee Chris Buck Fawn Veerasunthorn Allison Moore
Original Songs by Julia Michaels Benjamin Rice
Original Score Composed by Dave Metzger
Product Specifications Street Date Digital: January 23 Physical: March 12
Product SKUs Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code), Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + Digital Code) & DVD
Feature Run Time Approx. 95 Minutes
Rating U.S. Rated PG * Bonus Material Not Rated
Aspect Ratio Digital: 2.39 Physical: 1.85:1
U.S. Audio 4K Ultra HD: Japanese 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, English 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital Blu-ray: English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital DVD: English 5.1 Dolby, Spanish 5.1 Dolby, French 5.1 Dolby, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital: English 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English Descriptive Audio 2.0 Dolby Digital (some platforms)
U.S. Subtitles 4K Ultra HD: English SDH, Japanese, Spanish, French Blu-ray: English SDH, Spanish, French DVD: English, English SDH, Spanish, French Digital: English SDH, French, Spanish (some platforms)
Adventures by Disney Announces New Holland and Belgium River Cruise
Adventures by Disney continues its commitment to family travel with two new itineraries to Holland and Belgium. Beginning in 2025, families can embark on an enchanting river cruise and become immersed in Dutch culture, history and old-world charm, or join an exclusive spring departure to experience the legendary tulip season.
Each Holland and Belgium River Cruise itinerary will delight guests with its historic landmarks and through hands-on activities for the entire family. Both the traditional tour and the tulip tour include iconic 18th century windmills, canal cruises through time-honored neighborhoods, art, architecture, and classic food and drink tastings, as well as city excursions, a pottery activity, visits to castles, biking through the countryside and more — all designed to take guests into the heart of the area’s storied history and modern-day influence.
Holland and Belgium River Cruise, Keukenhof
The spring tulip sailing will also highlight Holland and Belgium’s world-renowned floral beauty and industry, including stops at breathtaking gardens and a tulip farm.
Holland and Belgium by River Cruise, Kinderdijk
Each eight-day, seven-night voyage, in collaboration with AmaWaterways, will be led by Disney-trained Adventure Guides who take care of every detail and bring the destinations to life through masterful storytelling. Families will enjoy the convenience of unpacking once as the river cruise ship serves as the hotel for the entire trip. Meals and activities are provided and the selection — or on-your-own time — provides guests a customized adventure. Young travelers, or Junior Adventurers, can even choose to spend an evening together on an Adventure Guide-led activity.
Bookings open to the public on Jan. 19, 2024. Additional information as well as a complete list of newly announced Adventures by Disney travel dates for 2025 are available at this link.
Holland and Belgium: Two Countries Founded on Innovation, Art and Culinary Delights
Much of Holland and Belgium sit at or below sea-level, and for more than 700 years of necessity and innovation as a result of flooding, the landscapes have been sculpted and defined by windmills, canals, dikes and water stations to accommodate farming, commerce and residential life. Dutch artists have also influenced the visual arts for centuries.
Both itineraries begin and conclude in Amsterdam and include visiting sites and enjoying activities, such as:
Visiting the windmills at Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to marvel at the 18th century structures which elegantly represent the origins of water management, industry and trade.
Touring charming cities and castles and biking along picturesque pathways. Bicycles are provided for the biking option.
Delighting in the past and present of Royal Delft and learning about the pottery and craftsmanship created since 1653. A hand-painted tile activity will give guests their own unique memento to take home.
Taking a canal cruise through picturesque neighborhoods and learning the stories behind the historic buildings.
Discovering the original residence and workshop of Plantin and Moretus publishing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the technique for how words and images were shared dating back to the 1500s. This visit will include a printing press demonstration and a hands-on activity.
Admiring the art of Peter Paul Rubens, breathtaking stained glass windows, sculptures and more at Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady, whose Gothic-architecture construction was first started in 1352 and whose belfry is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoying chocolate, cheese, waffles and beer tastings.
On the traditional Holland and Belgium itinerary, guests will visit Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Kinderdijk, Gouda and Bruges. Highlighted activities specific to this tour include:
Embarking on a Pilgrim walking tour in Rotterdam and learning the city’s connection and history to the “New World.”
Celebrating the magic of music at the Utrecht Museum Speelklok.
Admiring and strolling through the Castle de Haar, the largest castle in the Netherlands.
Learning about Brussels’ influence on comic books or their expertise in chocolate through a chocolate-making workshop.
For adult travelers, Adventures by Disney will offer this tour for one adult-exclusive departure.
Holland’s lowlands and climate give this region the ideal conditions for tulips. The tulip sailing will be offered once in April, to capture the splendor of the blooming season. Tulips are not only a flower to behold, they have also served as inspiration for Dutch master artists, and during tulip-mania in the 1600s, the bulb was used as an economic exchange.
On this itinerary, guests will visit Amsterdam, Hoorn, Middelburg, Ghent, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk and Schoonhoven. Highlighted activities specific to this tour include:
Marveling at Keukenhof’s brilliant display of 7 million spring-flowering bulbs and garden art throughout its 79 acres.
Visiting Hoorn and its expansive rows of tulips in every color, as well as touring a tulip farm to learn about how they are grown and bulbs are harvested.
Exploring the Floralia Flower Show and its more than 1 million tulip bulbs at the Castle of Grand Bigard, including a bonus hands-on Belgian chocolate-making activity.
Painting an ornamental clog in a traditional design to take home.
For nearly 20 years, guests traveling with Adventures by Disney have explored some of the most sought-after places in the world, and the travel brand’s global portfolio has expanded to now offering more than 40 guided-group adventures by land, river cruise and expedition cruise. Disney-trained Adventure Guides accompany every trip and bring real-world magic to life. Their masterful storytelling, in-depth knowledge of the places visited plus their attention to every detail ensures guests enjoy a hassle-free vacation and foster lasting connections with every destination. The authenticity and immersion in the places and cultures visited, plus insider access and activities, are at the heart of every Adventures by Disney vacation.
To learn more about Adventures by Disney or to book a vacation, guests can visit AdventuresbyDisney.com
The Disney Treasure, the latest ship added to the Disney Cruise Line fleet, is already setting sail in the digital realm. The ship has been added to Roku City, the city-scape-style screensaver that appears on Roku streaming devices.
The Disney Treasure has now been intricately designed and added to the Roku City screensaver. It replaces the iconic Cinderella Castle, marking a new chapter in the ever-evolving Roku landscape. This digital rendering allows users to explore the Disney Treasure in an immersive and interactive way.
The themed elements in the update are incredible and will appeal to all Disney fans. Under the archway with the Disney Cruise Line logo, guests virtually walk towards the water, greeted by Maui’s fish hook from “Moana”, hinting at the ship’s Broadway-style show, “Disney The Tale of Moana”. To the left, there’s a whimsical Disney’s Mt. Rushmore, featuring buoys with the faces of Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Goofy that can be found on Disney’s Private Island Castaway Cay. On the right, a glowing treasure chest adds to the magical aura just behind the famed ‘Hitchhiking Ghosts’ from the Haunted Mansion (a nod to the Haunted Mansion-themed bar aboard the Disney Treasure).
This unique and creative addition to Roku City celebrates the Disney Treasure’s upcoming maiden voyage in December 2024. Roku users now have the delightful opportunity to experience this virtual representation of the ship, bringing a piece of Disney’s magic into their homes.
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!
One of the exciting recent changes to Walt Disney World resort is the elimination of park pass reservations for date-based tickets. Park pass reservations are still required for annual pass holders looking to visit a theme park before 2 p.m. (or any time on the weekend at Magic Kingdom). Disney did announce a bit of reprieve for Annual Passholders with the implementation of ‘Good-To-Go’ days. We now have our first look at what these ‘good to go’ days will look like!
Upon logging into MyDisneyExperience and navigating to the Park Pass Reservation page, several days are now highlighted with a green circle on the calendar. Clicking on one of those dates shows ‘No Reservation Required’ for the theme parks on these days. The Good-To-Go days are available throughout January and February 1, with no days currently available after February 1.
The Good-To-Go days are a welcomed update to the park pass system, and provide a semblance of pre-COVID normalcy for Annual Passholders. We were very happy to see a large number of Good To Go Days loaded into the calendar, and hope the program continues to grow over the next few months!
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!
Disney guests looking to pick up specialty natural bath, body, haircare, and gift items may find their favorite store temporarily closed. The Basin locations in both Disney Springs and the Grand Floridian Resort are currently closed for refurbishment.
The Basin page on the Disney Springs website notes the Disney Springs store is currently closed for refurbishment, with a temporary location set up next to Art of Disney. This means that while the flagship store is being refreshed, guests are still able to stock up on their favorite Basin items. There is no currently available date for when the Disney Springs location’s refurbishment will be completed.
The Basin White store in the Grand Floridian Resort is also closed for a brief refurbishment, with plans to reopen in February.
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!
We have exciting news to share with all of our fellow Disney coffee aficionados. Joffrey’s Coffee in Disney Springs is serving up an all-new latte that you need to try!
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company is the official specialty coffee of Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney Vacation Club. Disney guests will find Joffrey’s Coffee being served up in Disney restaurants as well as at coffee stands around the Walt Disney World Resort. The Joffrey’s Coffee Store in Disney Springs offers freshly made specialty coffee drinks along with bagged coffee available in both whole bean and ground varieties.
The latest delicious creation from Joffrey’s is the Comfort Coco Mocha Latte, which features espresso, milk, dark chocolate sauce, and coconut syrup, topped with whipped cream, dark chocolate sauce drizzle, and toasted coconut flakes. The drink is smooth, delicious, and the perfect companion for a visit to Disney Springs!
The Comfort Coco Mocha Latte is only available through January 31, 2024, so be sure to head over to Joffrey’s Coffee in The Landing neighborhood of Disney Springs before it is gone!
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!
