This fun “D”-shaped magnet showcases Stitch’s mischievous side – he’s already taken a bite out of the top corner, and it looks like he’s eyeing another!
The magnet features “Walt Disney World” written in white on the left side and “Annual Passholder” in black across the bottom. Don’t miss out on this adorable addition to your collection!
Also, be sure to drop by and pick up the Annual Passholder-Exclusive Stitch Cake Cone in the Land Pavilion for V.I.PASSHOLDER Days from May 1st to June 26th.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Celebrates 35th Anniversary with Keepsake Map & Poster!
Happy Birthday, Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
Today marks the park’s 35th anniversary, and guests are in for a special treat. To commemorate this milestone, a limited-edition 35th Anniversary map is being distributed to guests.
This isn’t just any map – it doubles as a beautiful keepsake poster, perfect for reliving your park adventures or decorating your home with a touch of Disney magic!
We also have a video look at the 35th Anniversary Hollywood Studios park map below.
Disney Celebrates the 35th of Hollywood Studios with Vintage Photos from Years Past
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is turning 35 today! To celebrate this milestone, Disney has unearthed some rare gems from the park’s archives, showcasing its fascinating evolution over the years.
Longtime fans may remember the park’s original name: Disney-MGM Studios. From the very beginning, guests were transported straight to Hollywood Boulevard, where stylish shops mirrored the iconic architecture of California’s cinematic heartland.
Over the years, celebrating Hollywood glitz and glamor smack dab in the middle of Florida has created some unforgettable images. Here, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck and even Roger Rabbit leave their mark at the park.
In fact, between opening and 1995, some of the most iconic and legendary celebrities placed hand, foot (and even nose) prints into the concrete squares in the Great Movie Ride courtyard.
But before the park fun began, Disney’s Hollywood Studios started as a concept for an entertainment-themed EPCOT pavilion that expanded into its own 135-acre park – seen in the aerial photo above.
From the beginning, the park was spectacular! In these breathtaking aerial views of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can see several familiar landmarks, including the Theater of Stars where guests would eventually see Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage.
In early 1994, things began to look a little more like we know them today. And when Sunset Boulevard officially opened, it completely changed the skyline and atmosphere of Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The iconic Twilight Zone Tower of Terror would eventually make the “5th dimension” the norm for visiting guests. Imagineers watched more than 150 episodes of “The Twilight Zone” to get it right before the attraction opened in July 1994.
And when it all came together, the park shined. We found a beautiful and unforgettable look at the park’s entrance years ago with its original moniker, Disney-MGM Studios, on the marquee.
You may also remember that back in 1989, the third edition of “The Mickey Mouse Club” made its debut on the Disney Channel and was shot on location at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This mesmerizing image is from one of the show’s seven seasons.
In another smile-inducing vintage image from the park, you can see the Hercules – Zero to Hero Victory Parade in 1997 as it rolled into Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The 14-minute cavalcade celebrated the Walt Disney Animation Studios animated movie by taking guests on an adventure where townsfolk rallied around Hercules after his triumph over Hydra.
And for Star Wars fans – in 1990, before the popular Star Tours attraction opened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, we captured a unique image of an impressive 35-foot Imperial All-Terrain Armored Transport Walker (AT-AT).
We’ll wrap with Gertie. As we’ve shared, this giant dino is a tribute to Gertie the Trained Dinosaur – one of the first popular animated characters in film. The character was not developed by Walt Disney, but by newspaper cartoonist Winsor McCay in 1913.
In 1989, Walt Disney Imagineers honored Gertie by constructing an oversized tribute to her at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Of course, there are many more amazing moments to share – from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to Toy Story Land and other favorite park locations – but we hope you enjoyed this quick nostalgic look back.
Looking ahead, this summer (on June 10), Joy from Pixar Animation Studios’ “Inside Out” is headed to Pixar Plaza where she’ll join other Pixar stars. She’ll be in her new home just in time for “Inside Out 2,” which premieres only in theaters June 14th.
Also, “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” a fully reimagined theatrical production inspired by the Disney Animation classic “The Little Mermaid,” will be debuting in the Animation Courtyard theater in fall 2024 along with other amazing experiences coming in the future.
Gideon’s Bakehouse Celebrates May with Over-the-Top Peanut Butter Treats and More!
Calling all peanut butter and coffee lovers! Gideon’s Bakehouse is going nuts (literally) for the month of May with two decadent new offerings alongside a returning favorite.
First up is the Peanut Butter Cold Brew Cookie. This behemoth weighs in at nearly half a pound and features a thick peanut butter base infused with freshly ground espresso. Topped with chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces, this cookie promises an explosion of sweet and salty flavors balanced by the unexpected kick of espresso.
Available every day in May at both Gideon’s Bakehouse locations, this treat is limited to two per person.
Craving something even more outrageous? Look no further than the Peanut Butter Cold Brew Cake. Imagine a double-frosted cake featuring three layers of Gideon’s signature super soft chocolate cake. Between those layers lie a dream come true for peanut butter fans – a thick layer of both peanut butter buttercream and mocha espresso buttercream. To complete this masterpiece, the cake is adorned with Reese’s Pieces and Peanut Butter Cups. This limited edition cake will be available in slices every Wednesday and Saturday in May at both shops, with a limit of two slices per person.
Finally, for those who can’t get enough of the refreshing Banana Nitro Cold Brew, good news! This popular drink returns for one more month, but only at the Gideon’s Bakehouse location in Disney Springs.
So, whether you’re a die-hard peanut butter fan or simply looking for a unique and delicious treat, head over to Gideon’s Bakehouse this May and indulge in their over-the-top creations!
Ireland Meets Mexico at Raglan Road’s Cinco de Mayo Weekend Celebration
Happy Cinco De Mayo! It’s almost May 5th, and Raglan Road is gearing up for quite a unique fiesta! Come celebrate the festivities with their first-ever Irish Cinco de Mayo celebration, happening May 3rd through 5th, 2024!
What better way to celebrate than with incredible music that blends the best of both worlds? Join Fiárock (pronounced Fee-AH-rock), a talented Irish trad band, for a fun filled fiesta! Dance to the beat of their electrifying mix of Mexican and Irish folk, jazz harmonies, and even American old-time melodies.
This four-piece group, featuring members from both the US and Ireland, boasts impressive credentials. They’ve captivated audiences across Ireland, landed multiple performances on Irish national TV, and even played Dublin’s legendary trad pub, The Cobblestone. Get ready for a weekend filled with foot-stomping tunes that’ll have everyone dancing.
Raglan Road’s chefs have whipped up a special menu for the occasion including “Potacos” – delicious potato tacos with three mouthwatering options:
Beer-battered shrimp with seaweed tartare, crunchy slaw, and a malt vinegar kick.
Pulled BBQ pork smothered in cider BBQ sauce, with a refreshing mix of jalapeno salsa and pickled red onion.
Smoked beef and Guinness-glazed short rib, balanced with tangy chimichurri and charred corn salsa.
Don’t miss out on this unique celebration of Irish and Mexican spirit. Fiárock will be rocking the Grand Room stage on Friday, May 3rd and Saturday, May 4th, from 6:30 pm onwards. On Sunday, May 5th, catch them on the Raglan Road patio starting at 6:15 pm. Reservations are recommended – call 407/938-0300 to secure your spot.
For more information about Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant, visit their website at www.raglanroad.com or call 407/938-0300.
Festival of the Lion King Cast Reacts to new ‘Mufasa’ Trailer
The circle of life is roaring a little louder at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Following the release of the brand new trailer for Disney’s upcoming film “Mufasa: The Lion King,” the cast of Festival of the Lion King gathered for a group watch party.
These aren’t your average audience members though! From nimble monkeys to towering giraffes (whose contributions may include the occasional excited snort), the entire animal cast came together to experience Mufasa’s origin story.
Festival of the Lion King, a vibrant show featuring all your favorite characters and iconic songs, is a must-see at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. With incredible acrobatics, aerial performances, and larger-than-life singers, it brings Simba’s tale to life in a spectacular way.
But now, it’s Mufasa’s turn to take center stage. The new trailer dives into Mufasa’s past as a young cub. Rafiki narrates the legend to Simba’s daughter, Kiara, with Timon and Pumbaa adding their usual comedic flair.
Be sure to check out the heartwarming reaction video, along with the official trailer for “Mufasa: The Lion King.” Get ready to be swept away by the origins of a legendary king!
Magic Key Holders Can Pick Up a Panda Mei Paw for a Limited Time
Calling all Magic Key holders! From May 6th to 14th, 2024 (or while supplies last), you can snag a special foam Panda Mei paw to celebrate the brand new parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” at Disney California Adventure. Don’t miss out on this roarsome souvenir!
One side of the large foam paw has the Magic Key logo along with the Disneyland Resort logo.
The front of the paw features the name of the new Pixar parade, ‘Better Together A Pixar Pals Celebration!’.
Magic Key holders will need to join the Virtual Queue to pick up this special keepsake – check the Magic Key portal in the Disneyland app for details! They can pick up the keepsake at the Hyperion Theater courtyard in Disney California Adventure Park.
Dreaming of a summer Disney getaway? Let Destinations to Travel help! I’m your free travel agent, ready to turn your vacation dreams into reality. Contact me today!
In a first for Disney Springs, restaurant workers at Morimoto Asia, The Edison, Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Enzo’s Hideaway, and Pizza Ponte announced plans to unionize. These restaurants are operated by Patina Restaurant Group, a subcontractor under Delaware North, rather than directly by Disney. Unlike Disney’s unionized “Cast Members,” these workers lack the same benefits and job security protections. This move marks the first attempt by subcontracted Disney Springs employees to form a union.
Citing “second-class working conditions,” employees at five Disney Springs restaurants run by Patina Restaurant Group announced their intent to unionize with UNITE HERE Local 737. These conditions include a lack of benefits like healthcare and paid time off, despite demands for full availability and frequent five-day workweeks. Furthermore, 90% of positions are classified as part-time, making it difficult for workers to afford basic necessities. Two female employees even reported experiencing harassment from supervisors.
Local 737, which already represents Disney World food and beverage workers, has filed unfair labor practice charges against Delaware North with the National Labor Relations Board. This move highlights the disparity in benefits and treatment between subcontracted employees and directly-employed “Cast Members.”
Adding weight to the movement, local leaders like Representative Anna Eskamani voiced their support, acknowledging Florida’s high cost of living and advocating for fair wages.
Attraction Leaders Report Strong Outlook on Summer Travel Numbers
Get ready for busy summer travel! Theme parks and attractions around the world are gearing up for a big season, with attendance expected to jump 2% compared to last year. This prediction comes from the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the go-to source for amusement industry trends with members in over 100 countries.
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) predicts a banner year for North American parks. Attendance is expected to rise by 2%, surpassing a whopping 300 million visits in 2024. Get ready to loosen your purse strings too, as consumer spending is projected to jump 7%, reaching over $32 billion!
“As the weather warms up, many people are thinking of the classic summer vacation,” IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl said. “We’re seeing consumers shifting spending from material goods and instead investing in those trips—and memories—with family.”
Attractions are rising to the occasion to meet consumers with new experiences. Wahl shared four trends guests can look forward to seeing this summer.
Family Attractions: IAAPA has seen a noticeable rise in the creation of family entertainment experiences from its members. Examples of these attractions include upcoming family coasters like Good Gravy at Holiday World in Indiana and Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando — which are both set to open this spring — as well as Mattel Adventure Park and Destination KCK opening in Kansas City in 2026. These attractions allow families to create unforgettable memories together, which Wahl said aligns with the shift from investing in material goods to experiences.
Technology and Inclusiveness: IAAPA member parks and attractions have been making strides to use technology to create more inclusive and accessible guest experiences. IAAPA 2023 Hall of Fame inductee, the Hartman family of Morgan’s Wonderland, exemplifies this spirit of “Fun for All” with their collection of Ultra-Accessible™ attractions in San Antonio, Texas. Another notable example of this trend is the team behind the Peppa Pig theme parks, which are certified autism centers. A second Peppa Pig Theme Park is set to open in the Dallas-Fort Worth area this year. Wild Waves Theme and Water Park in Washington has implemented new technology to improve guest experiences with a new Digital Pass for season passholders, which can be loaded onto Apple or Google Wallet and provides easier, faster access with no lines.
Attractions for Younger Children: In the vein of inclusion and experiences for the family, attractions have been making efforts to fill a gap in the industry by creating experiences geared specifically toward younger children so young and growing families can experience a day at the theme park as well. One example would be The Franklin Institute’s new Wonderous Space exhibit — an immersive, multisensory, two-story experience designed to inspire excitement for space science in school-aged children with six hands-on attractions. Universal Studios Florida has also been developing attractions aimed at younger children like the new Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, plus attractions and activities coming to the new DreamWorks Land, opening on June 14, 2024.
Zoos and Aquariums: Exhibits are evolving to become more nature-driven, emphasizing authenticity with more greenery. This creates a more enjoyable experience for both guests visiting the exhibits and the animals that call the zoos and aquariums home. These initiatives also create a focus on conservation initiatives and sustainability. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center recently welcomed new animals and completed a $28.9 million renovation and expansion. Holding nearly 20,000 gallons of water and home to more than a dozen species living in lush, natural environments, the new South Building also features windows overlooking the new veterinary care center. SeaWorld Orlando is also home to a state-of-the-art Coral Rescue Center which provides a meaningful way to view living corals up close through interaction with biologists, learn more about conservation and understand the steps everyone can take to make a difference in ocean health.
Dreaming of a summer getaway? Let Destinations to Travel help! I’m your free travel agent, ready to turn your vacation dreams into reality. Contact me today!
Ryan Gosling Surprises Fans at ‘The Fall Guy Stuntacular Pre-Show’ at Universal Studios Hollywood
Surprise Stuntastic Appearance! Ryan Gosling and Director David Leitch crashed the “The Fall Guy Stuntacular Pre-Show” at Universal Studios Hollywood on Saturday!
These action heroes, promoting their upcoming film “The Fall Guy” (hitting theaters May 3rd!), surprised fans with a cameo in this pre-show inspired by the movie itself. This pre-show precedes the iconic WaterWorld stunt show.
This all-new, exclusive entertainment performance features an original storyline designed to provide an entertaining peek behind the curtain of how stunt performances are designed and brought to life, while celebrating the artistry of the film industry’s unsung heroes – the stunt performers.
Using the existing “WaterWorld” set, the action packed “The Fall Guy Stuntacular Pre-Show” will feature dynamic, unforgettable new stunts and entertain guests with an exclusive performance that can only be seen at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Are you looking forward to seeing the new “The Fall Guy Stuntacular Pre-Show”?
Ready to plan your next visit to Universal Studios Hollywood? 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 great vacation.
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Disneyland with these Eats and Treats
Calling all Disney Foodies & Gift Givers! Mother’s Day is May 12th!
Treat the special woman in your life to some Disney magic! We’ve got a scoop on all the delightful treats and beverages arriving at Disneyland Resort to make her day extra special. From sweet snacks to charming gifts, there’s something for every mom (or aunt, grandma, caregiver…)
Mother’s Day Brunch: Join in the celebration and drop “Inn” for brunch hosted by Minnie Mouse and her friends. Start with a memorable moment with Minnie Mouse and a special flower, picked just for mom.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Grand Californian Great Hall Cart (Available May 3 through 13)
Mickey-shaped Mother’s Day Cookie
Box of Assorted Cookies
Storytellers Cafe(Available May 12 only from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
Mother’s Day Dinner Buffet: Indulge your mom with a glorious dinner buffet – and encounter some beloved Disney Characters!
Available at Various Candy Locations Around Disneyland Resort Including Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen and Trolley Treats(Available May 5 through 12)
Tulip Cake Pop: Vanilla tulip-shaped cake pop dipped in purple-colored white chocolate, outlined in purple sanding sugar, and adorned with marshmallow leaves dipped in green-colored white chocolate (New)
Pink Minnie Caramel Apple: Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel, enrobed in milk chocolate, adorned with marshmallow ears, and dressed with pink sanding sugar and white M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies
I hope you all have a very Happy Mother’s Day however and whoever you celebrate!
If you’d like to celebrate Mother’s Day at the Disneyland Resort, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE. I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios opened back in 1989 inviting guests to step into their favorite films, celebrating the magic of the movies around every corner. Whether it’s dropping into 1939 Hollywood or encountering some trademark mayhem from The Muppets, this beloved park has challenged guests to expand their imagination allowing them to become part of the worlds they have only seen on the silver screen.
This pin set is a limited edition of 1,000 and is exclusive to D23 Gold Members. It includes 5 different designs inspired by the Grand Avenue, Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, each showcased inside a filmstrip frame and featuring the official D23 stamps on the back.
