Museum of Illusions Orlando is Celebrating Educators with a Twist of Magic
The Museum of Illusions Orlando at ICON Park is offering free admission to educators during Teacher Appreciation Week from May 6 to May 10. The museum, renowned for blending education with entertainment, invites teachers to explore its 50+ interactive exhibits based on math, science, and psychology, offering an immersive “edutainment” experience.
Teachers and professors can avail themselves of this opportunity by presenting a valid school ID and email address, with tickets available both online and in-person under the “Teacher Appreciation Offer”. In addition to free entry during the week, the Museum of Illusions is hosting a special event on May 3 from 5 to 8 p.m., exclusively for educators. This event includes a guided tour, allowing teachers to view the museum through the perspective of their students, and also features complimentary gift bags and discounts on future field trips.
The Museum of Illusions encourages active engagement and discovery, devoid of the usual museum constraints like “do not touch” signs, making it an ideal venue for teachers to learn, relax, and gather new teaching tools through the fascinating world of optical illusions. For more information or to book tickets, teachers are encouraged to visit the museum’s website.
Disney+ Adds Over 6 Million Subscribers in the Second Quarter of 2024
Disney+ continues its growth trajectory, adding over six million subscribers in the second quarter of 2024. This positive news comes alongside Disney’s projection of a loss in the streaming services sector for Q3. However, the company remains optimistic, anticipating Disney+ to reach profitability by Q4 of 2024 and maintain this trend throughout fiscal 2025.
“Our strong performance in Q2, with adjusted EPS up 30% compared to the prior year, demonstrates we are delivering on our strategic priorities and building for the future,” said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “Our results were driven in large part by our Experiences segment as well as our streaming business. Importantly, entertainment streaming was profitable for the quarter, and we remain on track to achieve profitability in our combined streaming businesses in Q4.
“Looking at our company as a whole, it’s clear that the turnaround and growth initiatives we set in motion last year have continued to yield positive results. We have a number of highly anticipated theatrical releases arriving over the next few months; our television shows are resonating with audiences and critics alike; ESPN continues to break ratings records as we further its evolution into the preeminent digital sports platform; and we are turbocharging growth in our Experiences business with a number of near- and long-term strategic investments.”
Domestic Disney+ average monthly revenue per paid subscriber decreased from $8.15 to $8.00 due to a higher mix of wholesale subscribers, partially offset by increases in retail pricing.
International Disney+ (excluding Disney+ Hotstar) average monthly revenue per paid subscriber increased from $5.91 to $6.66 due to increases in retail pricing and a lower mix of subscribers to promotional offerings.
Disney+ Hotstar average monthly revenue per paid subscriber decreased from $1.28 to $0.70 due to lower advertising revenue.
Hulu SVOD Only average monthly revenue per paid subscriber decreased from $12.29 to $11.84 due to lower advertising revenue, partially offset by increases in retail pricing.
Hulu Live TV + SVOD average monthly revenue per paid subscriber increased from $93.61 to $95.01 due to increases in retail pricing and a lower mix of subscribers to promotional offerings, partially offset by lower advertising revenue.
You can read more from the Second Quarter and Six Months Earnings for Fiscal 2024 report here.
Disney Parks & Experiences Report $8.3 Billion in Revenue for Q2 2024
The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) released its second-quarter earnings for the period ending March 30, 2024.
Key Takeaways:
Revenue Growth: The company experienced a positive trend with revenues increasing to $22.1 billion from $21.8 billion in the same quarter last year.
Earnings per Share (EPS): Diluted EPS saw a significant decline, shifting from a profit of $0.69 to a loss of $0.01. This decrease is primarily attributed to goodwill impairments, which were partially offset by gains in operating income for the Entertainment and Experiences segments.
Non-GAAP EPS (Excluding Certain Items): When excluding one-time charges, diluted EPS rose to $1.21 compared to $0.93 in the prior year, reflecting a positive underlying performance.
In the second fiscal quarter of 2024, we achieved strong double-digit percentage growth in adjusted EPS, and met or exceeded our financial guidance for the quarter.
As a result of our outperformance in the second quarter, our new full-year adjusted EPS(1) growth target is now 25%.
We remain on track to generate approximately $14 billion of cash provided by operations and over $8 billion of free cash flow(1) this fiscal year.
We repurchased $1 billion worth of shares in the second quarter and look forward to continuing to return capital to shareholders.
The Entertainment Direct-to-Consumer business was profitable in the second quarter. While we are expecting softer Entertainment DTC results in Q3 to be driven by Disney+ Hotstar, we continue to expect our combined streaming businesses to be profitable in the fourth quarter, and to be a meaningful future growth driver for the company, with further improvements in profitability in fiscal 2025.
Disney+ Core subscribers increased by more than 6 million in the second quarter, and Disney+ Core ARPU increased sequentially by 44 cents.
Sports operating income declined slightly versus the prior year, reflecting the timing impact of College Football Playoff games at ESPN, offset by improved results at Star India.
The Experiences business was also a growth driver in the second quarter, with revenue growth of 10%, segment operating income growth of 12%, and margin expansion of 60 basis points versus the prior year. Although the third quarter’s segment operating income is expected to come in roughly comparable to the prior year, we continue to expect robust operating income growth at Experiences for the full year.
“Our strong performance in Q2, with adjusted EPS up 30% compared to the prior year, demonstrates we are delivering on our strategic priorities and building for the future,” said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “Our results were driven in large part by our Experiences segment as well as our streaming business. Importantly, entertainment streaming was profitable for the quarter, and we remain on track to achieve profitability in our combined streaming businesses in Q4.
“Looking at our company as a whole, it’s clear that the turnaround and growth initiatives we set in motion last year have continued to yield positive results. We have a number of highly anticipated theatrical releases arriving over the next few months; our television shows are resonating with audiences and critics alike; ESPN continues to break ratings records as we further its evolution into the preeminent digital sports platform; and we are turbocharging growth in our Experiences business with a number of near- and long-term strategic investments.”
Domestic Parks and Experiences
The increase in operating income at our domestic parks and experiences was due to higher results at Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Line, partially offset by lower results at Disneyland Resort.
At Walt Disney World Resort, higher results in the current quarter compared to the prior-year quarter were due to:
Increased guest spending attributable to higher average ticket prices
Higher costs due to inflation, partially offset by lower depreciation and cost saving initiatives
Growth at Disney Cruise Line was due to an increase in average ticket prices, partially offset by higher costs
The decrease in operating results at Disneyland Resort was due to:
Higher costs driven by inflation
An increase in guest spending attributable to higher average ticket prices and daily hotel room rates
Higher volumes due to attendance growth, partially offset by lower occupied room nights
International Parks and Experiences
Higher international parks and experiences’ operating results were due to:
An increase in operating results at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort attributable to:
Guest spending growth due to increases in average ticket prices and food, beverage and merchandise spending
Higher volumes resulting from increases in attendance and occupied room nights. Volume growth benefitted from additional days of operations in the current quarter as well as the opening of World of Frozen in November 2023
Increased costs driven by inflation and new guest offerings
You can read more from the Second Quarter and Six Months Earnings for Fiscal 2024 report here.
After 25 yearsStar Wars Phantom Menace Makes Almost $15 Million at the Weekend Box Office
A quarter-century later, Star Wars fans are proving the Force is still strong with The Phantom Menace.
The film’s recent re-release, timed for May the Fourth (Star Wars Day) and its 25th anniversary, brought in an impressive $14.5 million at the global box office. Domestically, it earned $8.1 million, landing the coveted #2 spot at the box office. The film played across 2,700 theaters nationwide, including premium large format and specialty motion D-Box/4D auditoriums.
For context, the 40th anniversary re-release of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi opened with a respectable $5.1 million last year. This impressive showing by The Phantom Menace demonstrates the enduring popularity of the Star Wars saga and the excitement surrounding its upcoming projects.
The Phantom Menace opened in 1999 and was instantly a pop culture sensation.
The film — which was directed by Star Wars creator George Lucas and starred Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor and Natalie Portman — broke box office records and has since found a new generation of fans, growing its popularity over the last two decades.
The film tells the origins of Anakin Skywalker who would eventually become the sinister Darth Vader. The science fiction fantasy classic is full of cinematic innovations, creative storytelling, and iconic moments, which are hallmarks of the Star Wars series.
The re-release of The Phantom Menace was paired with an exclusive sneak peek of the upcoming Disney+ series Star Wars: The Acolyte, which premieres June 4.
A significant number of international markets are also playing the film including the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Australia, Japan, Mexico and Brazil.
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace and the entire Star Wars saga is currently streaming on Disney+.
Disney shares The Ultimate Guide to Fantasy Springs
Calling all adventurers! Mark your calendars for June 6th, because Fantasy Springs bursts onto the scene at Tokyo DisneySea! To fuel your epic quest, Disney has unveiled the ultimate guide – your one-stop shop for dining, shopping, and thrilling rides. Get ready to craft your perfect Fantasy Springs adventure!
Fantasy Springs is located between the Arabian Coast and Lost River Delta in Tokyo DisneySea! This eighth port is themed to a magical spring leading to a world of fantasy and consists of three areas: Frozen Kingdom, Rapunzel’s Forest, Peter Pan’s Never Land, inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios films “Frozen,” “Tangled” and “Peter Pan.” The biggest land expansion yet at Tokyo Disney Resort, it’s home to four new attractions, three quick service dining locations, a merchandise shop and a new hotel.
Does Fantasy Springs have its own Hotel?
Yes! Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel is the resort’s newest park-integrated hotel located inside Fantasy Springs and offers guests with park tickets access to Tokyo DisneySea through Fantasy Springs.
What attractions can you ride at Fantasy Springs?
Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey
Set out on a voyage by boat on Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey located in Frozen Kingdom! This family-friendly attraction features the heartwarming tale of two sisters from childhood memories with Grand Pabbie to Anna turning to ice to save Elsa. The adventure is accompanied by songs from the film including, “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” “For the First Time in Forever,” “Love Is an Open Door” and “Let It Go.”
Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival
For the first time ever, be transported to where the glowing lanterns gleam on Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival over in Rapunzel’s Forest. This romantic gondola journey retells the tale of Disney Animation’s “Tangled,” from Rapunzel’s tower to the moment we’ve all been waiting for, watching the sky envelope with countless lanterns to the tune of “I See the Light.”
Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure
An all-new adventure, this 3D escapade joins Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and the Lost Kids as they rescue John from Captain Hook and his band of pirates.
Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies
Shrink down to the size of a fairy and board a busy buggie to help Tinker Bell deliver packages throughout the changing seasons of Pixie Hollow. This attraction is perfect for those of all ages!
Where to eat at Fantasy Springs?
Royal Banquet of Arendelle
For the first time in forever, Anna and Elsa have opened the gates of Arendelle Castle to dine inside! Immerse yourself in the world of “Frozen” and discover eats like “Arendelle’s Royal Set.”
Oaken’s OK Foods
Oaken, the shop keeper of Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post and Sauna, has opened his doors to the hungry visitors of Frozen Kingdom! The perfect spot to grab a quick snack, you’ll find his signature offering, “Oaken’s Yoo-Hoo Bread,” here.
The Snuggly Duckling
Hidden among the foliage of a massive tree that’s partially growing into the building, dine among the happily-ever-after story of the tavern’s ruffians and paintings created by Rapunzel herself. Here you can find a variety of offerings from savory dishes such as “Duckling’s Dream Cheeseburger” and those on the sweeter side like the “Sweet Ever After Dessert.”
Lookout Cookout
The hideout of the Lost Kids, Lookout Cookout in Peter Pan’s Never Land was made from parts of a shipwreck that had washed ashore. Not only will you find menu items inspired by the Lost Kids, keep an eye out for what they’ve left around such as pajamas and hammocks.
Popcorn Wagon
No trip to Tokyo Disney Resort is complete without trying as many popcorn flavors as possible! You won’t want to miss the ALL-NEW roast beef popcorn flavor found only in Fantasy Springs.
Where can you find “Frozen,” “Tangled” and “Peter Pan”-themed merchandise at Fantasy Springs?
Fantasy Springs Gifts
Located inside the lower level of Fantasy Springs Hotel and only accessible from Fantasy Springs, this shop is where you find “Frozen,” “Tangled” and “Peter Pan”-themed merchandise! You can even find collections themed to the world of Fantasy Springs here.
Springs Treasures
This wagon-style kiosk is located outside the port along the pathway leading from Arabian Coast to Fantasy Springs. Offering a variety of merchandise, this is the perfect spot to stop before or after visiting Fantasy Springs!
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party Returns in 2024
Oogie Boogie Bash is returning to the Disneyland Resort for the 2024 Halloween season! For a frightfully fun time at this separately ticketed, after-hours event, guests of all ages are invited to wear their favorite Halloween costumes and enjoy an evening of immersive treat trails, unique character sightings, special entertainment, themed merchandise, food and beverages available only during Oogie Boogie Bash nights, and so much more!
Get ready for a hauntingly good time because the spell’s been cast! Disney California Adventure Park is throwing a separate-ticket Halloween party with Oogie Boogie himself!
Join the wickedly fun festivities on select nights in August, September, and October 2024. This thrilling family event lets you experience the park after-hours, with:
Spooktacular treat trails for all your candy cravings
Wickedly memorable photo ops
Frightful fun entertainment
Access to your favorite attractions with shorter lines!
Creepy-cool decorations that will put a spell on you
Tickets will go on sale for event nights in August, September and October 2024, from $134 to $189 (varies by event date).
Event Dates
Sunday, August 25
Tuesday, August 27
Thursday, August 29
Tuesday, September 3
Tuesday, September 10
Thursday, September 12
Sunday, September 15
Tuesday, September 17
Thursday, September 19
Sunday, September 22
Tuesday, September 24
Thursday, September 26
Sunday, September 29
Tuesday, October 1
Thursday, October 3
Sunday, October 6
Tuesday, October 8
Thursday, October 10
Sunday, October 13
Tuesday, October 15
Thursday, October 17
Sunday, October 20
Tuesday, October 22
Thursday, October 24
Sunday, October 27
Tuesday, October 29
Thursday, October 31
Stay tuned for more information regarding ticket sales and pricing!
Planning a fang-tastic Disneyland Halloween trip can be tricky! That’s where I come in, your free Disney genie! I’ll help you find the perfect hotel for your spooky stay, and create a customized itinerary filled with chilling treats and not-so-scary thrills. Contact me today and let’s make your Halloween at Disneyland a spellbinding success!
New It’s a Small World Dooney and Bourke Collection Now at The Disney Store!
Join the happiest crew that ever sailed in style with the new It’s a Small World Dooney and Bourke Collection available now at the Disney Store! The whimsical collection includes 2 different bag styles and a matching wallet to add a touch of nostalgia and magic to your outfits.
The classic tote bag is back with an all over pattern featuring the children and landmarks from the popular It’s a Small World attraction in shades of blue and pink, so cute! The attraction logo is also seen on both sides of the bag in gold, plus it features brown leather details and gold hardware.
My personal favorite in every collection is the satchel crossbody bag, a great size to carry all your essentials. This one features the same all over pattern of the kids and landmarks of the attraction in Mary Blair’s art style, super cute!
More adorable Disney Squishmallows arrived to Five Below! This time we found 6 different designs inspired in Disney sidekicks and other beloved characters, you can get yours at Five Below stores or online at FiveBelow.com for $5.95 each.
We all know each Disney princess has a sidekick best friend, in this case we found Pascal from Tangled, Flounder from The Little Mermaid, Gus from Cinderella and Hei Hei from Moana!
We also found Genie from Aladdin and Hamm from Toy Story looking extra squishy and adorable.
You can take a closer look at them in our Instagram post:
A new Pop Century Collection is now available at Walt Disney World! Add a groovy touch to your style with the new apparel options, ear headband and even some home decor to remember your stay at this fun resort.
The spirit jersey features a blue ombre color with the resort logo on the front and “Have a nice day!” quote across the back with Goofy and Mickey! This spirit jersey is perfect for those chilly summer nights at the back or pool.
The ear headband is so groovy! It features vinyls as ears covered in black and white sequins, the bow is made of a floral satin material with a Pop Century logo charm in the middle and the headband is blue with a purple interior.
We also spotted two shirts, one in white with red sleeves and artwork of Goofy, Mickey, flowers and “Have a nice day!” quote. The red shirt shows Goofy surrounded by pop icons and “Groovy Good Times” text his side.
A water bottle with an all over pattern of different pop icons and phrases like “Totally awesome”, bowling pins, flowers, vinyl records, peace signs and more, plus the resort logo is also available to keep yourself hydrated all day!
Finally, we found this adorable Mickey Mouse phone ornament just like the one you will find outside the resort! A must have in your home for sure.
You can take a closer look at these products in our Instagram post:
Sneak Peek at the Disney Cruise Line Dream of Europe Collection Coming Soon!
Get ready to set sail in style with the new Disney Cruise Line Dream of Europe Collection coming to the Disney Store UK on May 11th! You will also be able to find these new products on the Disney Dream European sailings starting this month.
In the sneak peek we can see a new pair of Minnie Ears will be available featuring padded ears with Mickey and Minnie on each ear and stamps of different European destinations, the bow is a mix of red and brown colors with a Disney Cruise Line ship charm in the middle, so cute!
We can also see a new spirit jersey in blue with “The Dream of Europe 2024” on the front and Disney Cruise Line logo across the back. The bottom part of the jersey has artwork featuring Mickey & Minnie surrounded by European stamps from different countries.
Hopefully we can see these products make their way to the Disney Store USA as well! But for now, if you are lucky enough to go on the Disney Dream for its European sailings, you can get these fun products and remember your trip for years to come.
Celebrate the queen of the house with these Mother’s Day Gift Ideas from BoxLunch Gifts! Here you will find clothes, accessories, kitchenware, and more that your mom will for sure love!
Adding a Disney touch to your hairstyle is always fun! BoxLunch has exclusive velvet headbands inspired in Ariel, Aurora and many other Disney Princesses. There’s also claw clips like this gorgeous Cinderella Claw Hair Clip.
When it comes to magical cardigans, BoxLunch is the place to go! This Winnie the Pooh cardigan is perfect for fall and the Cinderella one is fit for royalty any day of the year.
There are plenty of fun designs inspired in more Disney Princesses and beloved Disney characters that are absolutely gorgeous!
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster To Resume Active Operations at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Summer 2024
The Chip and Co team is excited to report that Disney has seemingly confirmed the reopening of the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Hollywood Studios. The attraction, first launched on July 29, 1999, will resume operations following a routine refurbishment this summer, with no changes to its theme.
Manufactured by Vecoma, the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has experienced increased downtime recently, hinting at the need for a refurb to address some issues. Visitors can anticipate the same adrenaline-pumping experience upon the coaster’s return, complete with the iconic fusion of rock music and high-speed thrills.
As we count down the days until we can ride in a super stretch limo again, be sure to stay tuned to the Chip and Co website and social media channels for further updates on the reopening of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
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