Medals Revealed for runDisney 2024 Springtime Surprise Weekend

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December 12, 2023

Medals Revealed for runDisney 2024 Springtime Surprise Weekend

The runDisney 2024 Springtime Surprise Weekend is coming up at Walt Disney World April 18-21, 2024! Disney shared a look at the race finisher medals that are coming to the event. Take a look!

Neverland 5K

Take flight for the first event of the race weekend with the Neverland 5K! Join favorite characters from Disney Animation’s “Peter Pan” for a magical 3.1-mile run that will take you toward the “second star to the right and straight on ’til morning” to find the finish line and this beautiful finisher medal.

Adventure is out There 10K

The finish line must be explored as you set out on an exhilarating 6.2-mile race inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Up” for the Adventure Is Out There 10K. Encounter some beloved characters like Russell, Dug, Carl, and even Kevin as you earn this finisher medal.

Hakuna Matata 10-Miler

It’s the ‘mane’ event for the weekend – the Hakuna Matata 10-Miler, an epic running journey inspired by Disney Animation’s “The Lion King.” Join Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa on this roaring run, where the spirit of the Circle of Life will guide you to the finish line to pick up this finisher medal.

Stitch’s ’Ohana Challenge

Up for an out-of-this-world challenge? Say aloha to Stitch’s ‘Ohana Challenge, inspired by Disney Animation’s “Lilo & Stitch,” where completing all the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend races—5K, 10K, and 10-Miler—earns you not just bragging rights, but this special finisher medal.

For even more event weekend adventure, start things off with a little pre-race stretch at runDisney Springtime Surprise Yoga, returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s a star-studded early morning that’s perfect for balancing your mind, body and spirit ahead of a run-filled weekend. Limited spots remain so head to runDisney.com to reserve your mat.

End your race weekend with a SPLASH and dive into an evening of celebration and thrills during the all-new runDisney Springtime Surprise Splash at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. After a weekend full of magical miles, enjoy favorite water attractions (at night!) with shorter wait times, delicious sips and eats and more – a splashing way to end your race weekend!

Did you know you can also join the runDisney Springtime Surprise fun, virtually? Bring the magic home and run on a course of your choosing during the Virtual 2024 runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend. From 3.1 to 19.3 miles, explore one-of-a-kind race options for a runDisney adventure, wherever you are!

Will you be participating in the 2024 runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend?

Ready to plan your next visit to Walt 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.

Full List of New Zootopia Food & Beverage Coming to Shanghai Disneyland

By

Sara

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December 11, 2023

Full List of New Zootopia Food & Beverage Coming to Shanghai Disneyland

The new Zootopia land is opening soon in Shanghai Disneyland! Today Disney shared a look at the Zootopia food and beverages that are coming to the new area.

When this immersive land opens in just a few short weeks, let your taste buds take a walk on the wild side with eats and sips that are staples among the residents of this metropolis at these must-try snack-spots – Jumbeaux’s Cafe and Zootopia Market. At these brand-new locations, and various ones throughout the resort, hungry guests will find a variety of treats that are (almost) too cute to eat. From the Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream Cone to the adorably delicious Lemming Marshmallow, and the classic Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle, there’s no shortage of items sure to leave you hopping with joy (and flavor).

Jumbeaux‘s Cafe

Chocolate Marshmallow: Raspberry-flavored marshmallow
Chocolate Marshmallow & Mini Chocolate Bar (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
The Big Donut: Chocolate donut (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
The Mini Big Donut: Chocolate donut (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Disney Zootopia Blueberry Pie: Handmade shortbread crust served with a sweet and sour blueberry sauce (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)

Blueberry Milkshake: Ice cream and blueberry sauce topped with a Clawhauser chocolate piece
Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream Sundae with Disney Zootopia Elephant Ice Cream Bowl: Ginger-flavored ice cream on soft-chocolate cake and topped with crunch cereal pieces
Judy’s Waffle with Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream
Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream Cone: Carrot-shaped cone with ginger-flavored ice cream topped with a Judy Hopps chocolate piece (Also available at Il Paperino)

Lemming Marshmallow (Also available at Cookie Ann Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Frittata Sandwich: Soft frittata filled with potatoes, carrots, and mozzarella cheese cushioned between two carrot-shaped buns (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
Hot Chocolate with Judy Hopps Hot Beverage Cup (Also in January at available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)
Hot Chocolate with Nick Wilde Hot Beverage Cup (Also available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)
White Peach Waxberry-Flavored Sparkling Special Drink with Nick Souvenir Cup (Also available at all quick-service restaurants)

Zootopia Market

Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle: Hawthorn berry-flavored popsicle (Also available at Ballet Café, Sunnyside Market, and outdoor vending carts)
Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle with Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle Ice Mold (Also available at Ballet Café, Sunnyside Market, and outdoor vending carts)
Carrot-Shaped Lollipop (Also available at Cookie Ann Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle Lollipop (Also available at Cookie Ann Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Gazelle Cotton Candy
Disney Zootopia Police Officer Badge Chocolate Bar (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Ballet Café, Sunnyside Market, Mickey & Pals Market Café, Barbossa’s Bounty, and Pinocchio Village Kitchen)

Corn-Flavored Popcorn
Corn-Flavored Popcorn with Hopps Family Farm Popcorn Bucket (Also available at outdoor vending carts)
Hopps Family Farm Popcorn Bucket (Also available at outdoor vending carts)
Zootopia Bottle Cap and Clip (Also available throughout the resort)

More to Find Around the Resort!

Picnic Basket at Gardens of Imagination

Chocolate Marshmallow: Raspberry-flavored marshmallow
Chocolate Marshmallow & Mini Chocolate Bar (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
Judy’s Pineapple Cheesecake & Nick’s Lemon Cheesecake (Also available at Mickey & Pals Market Café, Barbossa’s Bounty, and Pinocchio Village Kitchen)
Frittata Sandwich: Soft frittata filled with potatoes, carrots, and mozzarella cheese cushioned between two carrot-shaped buns (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
Hot Chocolate with Judy Hopps Hot Beverage Cup (Also in January at available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)
Hot Chocolate with Nick Wilde Hot Beverage Cup (Also available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)

Available at Select Quick-Service Restaurants

Tuna and Vegetable with Steamed Rice with Judy Snack Box

Are you looking forward to visiting the new Zootopia land in Shanghai Disneyland?

If you’d like to plan your next Disney vacation, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

Peach Punch Minnie Mouse Sequined Loungefly Backpack Now At shopDisney!

By

Ana Leal

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December 11, 2023

Peach Punch Minnie Mouse Sequined Loungefly Backpack Now At shopDisney!

New Peach Punch Minnie Mouse Sequined Loungefly Backpack just arrived to shopDisney! Did you know peach fuzz is actually the Pantone color of the year for 2024? So this backpack is perfect to start adding this color to your style!

This dazzling bag features Peach Punch colored sequins, outfitted with metallic adjustable straps, a bow, Minnie ears plus polka dot lining, it’s a fresh look for any hike or happy outing.

You can get it online at shopDisney for $98!

New Disney Wish Star Cuddleez Plush Flew Into Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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December 11, 2023

New Disney Wish Star Cuddleez Plush Flew Into Magic Kingdom!

We found this adorable Disney Wish Star Cuddleez Plush at Magic Kingdom and immediately felt in love with it. It’s so cute and soft, perfect to cuddle all day long, you can also get it online at shopDisney for $39.99.

This plus is 17 3/4” and features embroidered details that bring this spongey, super-soft plush to life. We can’t get over how cozy and comfy it is, perfect as a nap companion!

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

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Super Cute Piglet Stainless Steel Water Bottle Available At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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December 11, 2023

Super Cute Piglet Stainless Steel Water Bottle Available At Magic Kingdom!

This Piglet Stainless Steel Water Bottle will help you stay hydrated all day! You can get it at Magic Kingdom, as well as, online at shopDisney for $29.99.

The double wall water bottle has a 17-ounce capacity and features an all over pattern of Piglet and flowers against a light pink bottle. The lid is shaped like the adorable Piglet making this water bottle look extra sweet!

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

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

The Walt Disney Company Earns 27 Golden Globe Award Nominations!

By

Catherine

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December 11, 2023

The Walt Disney Company Earns 27 Golden Globe Award Nominations

The Walt Disney Company secured 27 Golden Globe Award nominations across its diverse content brands and studios. This includes recognition for Disney Television Studios’ 20th Television, FX, FX Productions, Hulu Originals, Marvel Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Searchlight Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Walt Disney Studios.

Searchlight Pictures emerged with eight nominations in the motion picture category, with “Poor Things” leading the pack with seven nominations. These include nods for Best Motion Picture (Musical or Comedy), Best Director (Motion Picture) for Yorgos Lanthimos, Best Screenplay (Motion Picture) for Tony McNamara, and outstanding performances by Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, and Mark Ruffalo. Additionally, Jerskin Fendrix received a nomination for Best Original Score. The studio also earned a nomination for Best Performance by an Actor for “All of Us Strangers.”

The excitement of the 2024 Golden Globe Awards ceremony will be hosted at the Beverly Hilton on January 7, 2024. Broadcasting live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+, the three-hour event will also be accessible through the CBS app, commencing at 5 pm PT (8-11 pm ET). Tune in to see who takes home the Golden Globe!

New Play In The Disney Parks Minnie Ears Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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December 11, 2023

New Play In The Disney Parks Minnie Ears Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

The new Play In The Disney Parks Minnie Ears are so cute! They are super fun and magical, a great design to bring home after your Disney vacation.

You can get it at Magic Kingdom for $34.99, you won’t regret it!

This ear headband features a beautiful light blue / mint color with an all over pattern of beloved Disney characters having fun at iconic Disney attractions! If you look closely you will find Mickey & Minnie taking a spin on the tea cups, Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy on Pirates Of The Caribbean, Donald on Space Mountain and Goofy and Donald at the Haunted Mansion.

It also has a puffy sequined bow with a classic Mickey ear hat charm in the middle! You can take a closer look at it in our Instagram post:

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Festive Wilderness Lodge Holiday Pins At Walt Disney World!

By

Ana Leal

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December 11, 2023

Festive Wilderness Lodge Holiday Pins At Walt Disney World!

We found two new Wilderness Lodge Holiday Pins at the resort in Walt Disney World and absolutely loved them! If you are staying at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge this holiday season, these pins are a great option to remember your stay at this magical cozy place.

The first one features a Gingerbread house display with Meeko, Flit and Percy from Pocahontas and then the Wilderness Lodge Resort logo at the bottom, super cute!

The second one features the adorable Humphrey the bear peeking out a plaid stocking with a pinecone and Wilderness Lodge logo! This is a definitely a must have in your collection.

The pins are $19.99 each and can be found at the retail locations in the resort.

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Ursula Tiki Mug Available for a Limited Time at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

By

Chris B

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December 11, 2023

Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto will stock the Ursula Tiki Mug for a limited time

A new wave of excitement has just hit the Walt Disney World Resort, much to the delight of all of us poor unfortunate souls. The iconic sea witch Ursula is making a splash at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Located in the tropical paradise of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, this unique venue is now offering the Ursula Tiki Mug for a limited time.

Ursula Tiki Mug Available for a Limited Time at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

Starting at noon ET every day, guests have the opportunity to get their hands on a wristband which will provide access to this unique collectible. But you’ll need to be quick like a sailfish! These mugs are only available while supplies last, with a limit of two per person, per transaction.

The Ursula Tiki Mug will also come with a choice of specialty beverage. It’s the perfect way to add a bit of Ursula’s magic to your day. Whether you’re a Disney collector, a Tiki enthusiast, or just looking for a special memento from your Disney vacation, this mug is a must-have.

Remember, the distribution of wristbands for the mug begins promptly at noon, so plan your visit accordingly and act fast so you don’t miss this chance to take home a piece of Disney magic with the Ursula Tiki Mug!

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!

Universal Orlando Hires Danny Elfman to Compose the Music for Epic Universe

By

Chris B

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December 11, 2023

Universal Orlando Hires Danny Elfman to Compose the Music for Epic Universe

Legendary composer Danny Elfman has been tapped to compose music for Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe

Dark Universe, a Universal-Monstors-themed land that will call the upcoming Epic Universe theme park home, is seemingly getting an epic musical score. Danny Elfman, renowned for his collaborations with director Tim Burton on films such as “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” has been tapped to compose the music for the new land.

Elfman, in an interview with Deadline, mentioned that he is currently dividing his time between various types of music projects, including classical, rock and roll, and notably, “monster music” for a theme park in Orlando. Given the context and the development of the Epic Universe, it seems the only park Elfman could be plausibly referring to that this music is Epic Universe.

Elfman is widely known for his involvement in a myriad of other notable projects. In the same interview with Deadline, he noted he is excited about returning to the world of “Beetlejuice” for a sequel and has also worked on the score for the TV series “Wednesday,” executive-produced by Tim Burton. Despite his success, Elfman related he is never happy with the status quo and is always pushing himself to “keep working on new, challenging things.”

Elfman’s expansive career includes work with other directors like Sam Raimi, contributing to films such as “Spider-Man,” “Spider-Man 2,” “Meet the Robinsons,” and “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” His versatility across different genres of music, from film scoring to theme park attractions, continues to demonstrate his significant influence in the world of music and entertainment.

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando 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 Universal 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 Universal vacation package through me!

First Look at Universal Orlando’s Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resort Rooms Coming to Epic Universe

By

Chris B

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December 11, 2023

We have your first look at the resort hotel rooms now available for booking at the all-new Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resorts

Universal’s Epic Universe Theme Park is currently slated to open sometime in 2025. The massive theme park will contain a variety of themed lands, including Super Nintendo World (confirmed), How To Train Your Dragon Land (rumored), and an extension of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (rumored). While we do not have a confirmed opening date for the park, we recently learned two of the Epic Universe Resort Hotels, Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resort, are now accepting reservations for stays beginning January 2025. We have your first look at what the hotel rooms will look like in these new resort hotels.

Stella Nova Resort

Stella Nova Resort, which will open to guests on January 21, 2025, will feature a total of 750 guest rooms. Rooms are available in either standard or pool view, and all are 315 square feet and sleep up to 4.

Both room types feature amenities such as 2 queen beds, a flat-screen TV, a mini-refrigerator, and a coffee maker. The decor of the rooms features sleek curves and subtle colors which are designed to invoke thoughts of traversing through space.

The bathrooms will contain your typical sink/toilet/shower layout, and have a modern look and feel. The resort will also feature Mobility Accessible and Hearing Accessible rooms, both in the standard and pool-view categories, upon opening. Mobile accessible rooms contain a tub with grab bars, handheld shower, toilet with grab bars, and doors with 36″ wide openings. The hearing-accessible rooms include a visual alarm and doorbell, a flashing light on the phone, and an outlet near the phone for TTY access.

Terra Luna Resort

Terra Luna Resort is slated to open to guests shortly after Stella Nova, on February 25, 2025. The resort is a sister resort to Stella Nova and also features 750 guest rooms with similar amenities. The main difference guests will notice between Terra Luna and Stella Nova is the aesthetics, with the rooms at Terra Luna resort being styled with “sweeping curves, terrestrial tones, and an eye-catching, spaceship-styled window, inspire thoughts of exploring new worlds.”

The layout, size, and amenities of the rooms at both resorts are the same. Terra Luna will also offer both standard and pool view rooms that are 315 square feet and will also have both Mobility Accessible and Hearing Accessible rooms available.

Both resorts are now accepting reservations for their opening dates. While the hotels will open before Epic Universe, guests will still be able to enjoy early park entry at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, as well as complimentary resort transportation, while staying at these new resorts.

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando 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 Universal 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 Universal vacation package through me!

Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Taking Shape as Construction Continues

By

Chris B

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December 11, 2023

epic-universe-latest-update-3 — Photo credit bioreconstruct

Epic Universe is starting to take shape, as revealed by Bioreconstruct

Construction on Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe is continuing at an impressive pace. We recently revealed the two on-property resort hotels are now taking reservations for stays beginning in January 2025, with the entire Epic Universe theme park slated to open at some point in the same year. As we enter into 2024, bioreconstruct has shared updated photos on X which demonstrate some impressive progress at the park.

The buildings in Super Nintendo World are beginning to take shape, with Peaches Castle coming together nicely. Just above Peaches Castle, you can see one of the domes that will make up the center of Epic Universe.

Aerial overview of Yoshi's Adventure. Seems like all the ride cars are now staged on the track. Wrapped in protective fabric. pic.twitter.com/oN20uSW9fK
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) December 10, 2023

Yoshi’s Adventure, one of the attractions that will be found in Super Nintendo World, has cars installed on the track.

epic-universe-latest-update-2 — Photo credit bioreconstruct

This location is believed to be the extension of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the new park, which will be set in France and contain the Ministry of Magic.

Aerial photo of Dark Universe in Epic Universe.
Arrow at circular frame for the in-park resort's pool bar. pic.twitter.com/MTg7ilp0bo
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) December 10, 2023

The facade of Dark Universe is also being installed, giving us a view of how this area will look when the park opens. You can see the frame for the pool bar for the resort that will be located INSIDE the park just above Dark Universe.

Aerial photo of the lobby entry for guests arriving at the Epic Universe in-park resort. Arrow where glass is staged for placement. pic.twitter.com/BPctVLctfZ
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) December 10, 2023

This closer look at the new in-park resort shows the lobby entrance will guests will enter the hotel.

Aerial photo of the Epic Universe in-park resort tower relative to sections of the park. Such as the Harry Potter related land at left. pic.twitter.com/52hiA4C8dR
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) December 10, 2023

This image shows how close the in-park hotel will be to the rest of Epic Universe.

epic-universe-latest-update-1 — Photo credit bioreconstruct

The exterior greenery around the dual-racing roller coaster has been installed.

Aerial overview of Epic Universe. pic.twitter.com/9KbZejEOit
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) December 10, 2023

As the lands in Epic Universe take shape, we can begin to appreciate just how MASSIVE this park will be when complete!

What areas of Epic Universe are you most looking forward to? Leave us a comment to let us know!

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando 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 Universal 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 Universal vacation package through me!