Disney World Extends Theme Park Hours in April

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April 1, 2024

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Hiya Pals! If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World this month, we’ve got some magical news for you! Walt Disney World is serving up extra helpings of pixie dust this April with extended park hours across Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

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Here’s the scoop on the exciting changes:

Hollywood Dazzles a Little Longer

Lights, Camera, Action – Later! Catch all the thrills and spills of Hollywood Studios with extended hours on April 19th and 20th. The park will close at 9:30 PM instead of the usual 9:00 PM.

Magic Kingdom Gets a Royal Stretch

Early Birds Get the Wishes: Magic Kingdom is welcoming the morning sun an hour earlier, opening at 8:00 AM from April 14th to 20th.
Extended Nighttime Adventures: Stay up late and experience the magic after dark! The park will keep its doors open until 11:00 PM on both Friday, April 19th, and Saturday, April 20th.
Exclusive Time for Resort Guests: Don’t miss the special extended evening hours for select Disney Resort guests from 10:00 PM to midnight on Wednesday, April 17th.

Animal Kingdom Extends the Wild Adventure

Rise and Shine with the Beasts! Animal lovers rejoice! Disney’s Animal Kingdom opens its gates an hour earlier at 8:00 AM every day throughout the week.
More Time to Explore the Wonders of Nature: Enjoy extended hours to see your favorite animals! The park will be open until 7:00 PM on April 14th, 15th, 19th, and 20th. Regular closing hours of 6:00 PM will apply from April 16th to 18th.

EPCOT Maintains Regular Schedule

EPCOT will continue its regular operating hours of 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM throughout April.

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Chip and Co. Tip: Don’t forget about Early Entry for Disney Resort guests! Every day, guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel can enter select parks 30 minutes before regular park opening. This is the perfect way to beat the crowds and experience your favorite attractions with shorter wait times.

With these extended hours, you have more opportunities to create unforgettable memories at Walt Disney World. So grab your Mickey ears, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for an extra dose of Disney magic this April!

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!

Gideon’s Bakehouse Unveils Sweet April Surprises at Disney Springs

By

Chip

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April 1, 2024

Gideon’s Bakehouse Unveils Sweet April Surprises at Disney Springs

Get ready for a taste of paradise, Disney fans! Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs is kicking off April with tantalizing limited-edition treats that will make your tastebuds sing. From a decadent cookie upgrade to a dreamy pineapple cake and a unique banana cold brew, there’s something for everyone with a sweet tooth.

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The Return of a Fan Favorite (with a Twist!)

The beloved White Chocolate Caramel Macadamia Nut Cookie is back for the entire month of April, but this time it’s even better! Gideon’s homemade salted caramel, known for its irresistible flavor and occasional oozy eruptions, takes center stage. The finishing touch? A generous sprinkle of macadamia nut crumble for extra crunch and deliciousness. Don’t miss out – grab yours while supplies last (limit 2 per person).

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Pineapple Dream Cake – A Tropical Delight

Prepare for a taste of the tropics with the all-new Pineapple Dream Cake! This slice of heaven features layers of fluffy vanilla cake, tangy pineapple jam, luscious pineapple buttercream, and a sprinkle of brown butter crumbs for a delightful textural contrast. This was a hit during testing, and we predict it’ll be a fan favorite. Catch it by the slice every Wednesday and Saturday in April.

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A Unique Coffee Treat: Banana Nitro Cold Brew

Calling all coffee lovers! Gideon’s is serving up a refreshingly unique Banana Nitro Cold Brew. Made with locally roasted beans and real bananas (no artificial syrups here!), this magical drink is perfect for a pick-me-up during your Disney Springs adventures. Available all throughout April.

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Mark Your Calendars!

Disney Junior Unveils First Look of Animated Series Inspired by The Little Mermaid Live Action Movie

By

Catherine

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April 1, 2024

First Look of Animated Series Inspired by The Little Mermaid Live Action Movie

Exciting news for fans of The Little Mermaid! Everyone’s favorite little mermaid is back with all new adventures under the sea. Get ready to dive deep into a whole new wave of excitement with Disney Junior’s Ariel! This upcoming animated musical series, inspired by the timeless classic The Little Mermaid, is set to premiere in an all new sea-ries on Disney Junior this summer.

The original 1989 film captured hearts worldwide with its enchanting story and unforgettable characters. The recent 2023 live-action remake starring Halle Bailey successfully introduced the beloved tale to a new generation.

Now, Disney Junior’s Ariel brings the magic of Atlantica to a preschool audience. This series features a young Ariel brimming with curiosity, just like her familiar counterpart. She continues her love of collecting treasures, but here, they serve a new purpose – helping her and her friends solve problems!

In a unique twist, Ariel’s mermaid tail takes center stage. This fin isn’t just for swimming – it changes color based on her emotions! Imagine a bright yellow tail sparkling with joy, or a calming blue reflecting serenity. This whimsical touch adds a whole new layer of engagement for young viewers. Take a peek at the all new trailer below!

So, join Ariel, her loyal friends, and a cast of delightful new characters for underwater adventures filled with music, laughter, and valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork, and problem-solving. Disney Junior’s Ariel promises fin-tastic fun for the whole family!

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opening Date Announced

By

Chip

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April 1, 2024

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opening Date Announced for the Magic Kingdom

Disney fans, get ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the bayou as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open at Magic Kingdom! The highly anticipated attraction will transport guests to the magical world of “The Princess and the Frog,” bringing to life the vibrant and musical ambiance of New Orleans.

The official opening date for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has been announced! Mark your calendars and get ready to join Princess Tiana and her friends on a thrilling adventure filled with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

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Tiana’s Bayou Adventure promises to be a highlight of Magic Kingdom’s attractions, offering a unique and immersive experience for guests of all ages. From the moment you step into the bayou-themed environment, you’ll be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and flavors of Louisiana’s iconic swamps.

One of the most anticipated aspects of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is the opportunity to interact with beloved characters from “The Princess and the Frog.” Guests will have the chance to meet Princess Tiana herself, as well as other familiar faces from the beloved Disney film.

The attraction will feature innovative storytelling techniques, state-of-the-art technology, and dazzling special effects to bring the bayou adventure to life in an unprecedented way. Whether you’re exploring mystical bayou landscapes, encountering magical creatures, or joining Princess Tiana in a lively musical celebration, every moment of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure promises to be filled with wonder and enchantment.

As the opening date approaches, stay tuned for more details, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes insights into this magical addition to Magic Kingdom. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is sure to become a must-visit destination for Disney enthusiasts and fans of “The Princess and the Frog” alike.

Get ready to step into the bayou and experience the magic firsthand. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is coming soon, and it’s set to make waves at Magic Kingdom like never before!

Just last week water has returned to the bayou. Check out this amazing video below!

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Also, you can see Disney testing the log vehicles in our video below:

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The Official Opening Date for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is…

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Oh did we mention you will be able to purchase Critter Plushies when the attraction opens? You can learn all about that here.

Speaking of critters did you see all of the posters Disney revealed recently?

Aren’t they adorable? We can’t wait! There will be more critters revealed in the months leading up to the opening.

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Oh that reminds me back in March, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro was spotted at the Magic Kingdom filming in front of the walls for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. I wonder what that is about? I really like him. I wonder if it was a commercial for Tiana’s???

This one time I was on the Disney Wish I actually met him. He was so nice and personable. I chatted with him for a minute and you can tell he LOVES what he does. I have a photo, hold on…

20220629_201943 — Chip with Josh D’Amaro

What were we talking about again? Sorry, I get a little scatterbrained sometimes.

Oh yeah, the official opening date for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom. The opening date of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom will be (wait for it) sometime this summer!

Hooray! Did you know Summer officially starts on Thursday, June 20th, 2024, and runs through Sunday, September 22nd, 2024. So we can expect it to open sometime during that window.

In case you haven’t figured it out yet this is our 2024 April Fools Joke.

Disney has NOT officially announced the opening date for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure but you know the very minute they do we will have something up here on Chip and Company.

Stay tuned! and Thank you for playing along!

Happy April Fools!

Construction Walls Come Down Around Frontierland Railroad Station in the Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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April 1, 2024

Construction Walls Come Down Around Frontierland Railroad Station in the Magic Kingdom

Exciting news for Disney fans! Construction progress on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure continues, with the removal of some construction walls near the Frontierland Railroad Station in Magic Kingdom. This hints at the upcoming summer 2024 opening of the new attraction.

As construction on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure progresses at Magic Kingdom, glimpses of the queue can now be seen through the removed walls. New landscaping has been added, hinting at the immersive bayou experience guests can expect. While a portion of the queue remains under construction, the path on the right provides access to a restroom that’s still open for parkgoers.

Anticipation is building for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom! The Frontierland railroad area’s construction is nearing completion for the summer 2024 opening. Recent sightings of Imagineer test rides and the addition of testing signs at the flume’s drop point hint that the exciting new attraction is on track for its much-awaited debut.

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Are you excited to see Tiana’s Bayou Adventure open this summer?

If you’re ready to plan your next Disney World trip, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE!

Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular to Return for 2024 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

By

Chris B

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March 31, 2024

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Are your ready to run Amok, amok, amok? The Sanderson Sisters are stirring their cauldrons once more as the beloved Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular is returning to haunt (delight!) Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party this year!

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Do you yearn for a taste of chaos with a side of singing “I Put a Spell on You” under a spooky moon? Then this is your chance to join the wicked fun, as Disney Live Entertainment is looking for a few good witches to bring the famous sisters back to life this Halloween. The audition announcement also confirms the Halloween party will again run at the Magic Kingdom from August through October this year.

The frightful details:

The Beloved Spectacle Returns: Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular (exclusive to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
The Location: Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)
The Dates: Select nights from August to October 2024 (rehearsals begin mid-July)
The Roles: Winifred, Mary, and Sarah Sanderson (all three!)

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To be considered for this spellbinding role, you’ll need to:

Sing Like a Sanderson Sister: Showcase your vocal talents, including tight harmonies, in the style of Winifred, Mary, or Sarah.
Be a Comedic Cauldron: Excellent comic timing is a must to bring these hilarious witches to life.
Move Like a Monstrous Minion: Show off your high movement ability to put on a spelltacular performance.

Ready to audition? Head over to the Disney Auditions website and follow the two-step process outlined above. Don’t let this opportunity turn to dust! Submissions close on April 12th, 2024.

Will we see YOUR wickedly talented self stirring up trouble with the Sanderson Sisters this Halloween season?

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!

Charlize Theron Visits Walt Disney World

By

Catherine

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March 31, 2024

Charlize Theron Visits Walt Disney World

Charlize Theron offered a sweet surprise to fans this week, sharing glimpses of a magical spring break trip to Walt Disney World with her daughters, Jackson (11) and August (7).

Theron typically keeps her family life out of the spotlight, making these photos even more special. Fans rarely get a glimpse into her role as a mom, so this social media peek has undoubtedly warmed many hearts. This isn’t the first time Theron’s daughters have appeared publicly. She was spotted with Jackson at a fashion show in Paris last year and vacationing in Italy with both girls the year before. The actress adopted Jackson in 2012 and August in 2015.

A few snapshots from their adventure showed them conquering the high-speed Tron Lightcycle Power Run, and strolling through the park soaking in the iconic view of Cinderella Castle enjoying the warm Florida sunshine.

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Photo Credit Charlize Theron

Theron has openly discussed her adoption journey, revealing in a 2019 interview that she wasn’t particular about nationality and “cast a very wide net” to find her children. “Somehow my child would find me,” she expressed, “in the way that we were just meant to be.” Both Jackson and August are American-born African Americans

This glimpse into Theron’s personal life offers a refreshing perspective on the award-winning actress, showcasing not just her talent but also her dedication to her family. It looks like they had a wonderful time!

Disney Springs Art Walk Newest Painting from Gillian Fazio

By

Chris B

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March 31, 2024

An all-new installation has been unveiled at the Disney Springs Art Walk in honor of Women’s History Month. Created by talented Central Florida artist Gillian Fazio, this masterpiece, titled “The Empress,” blends Fazio’s signature “new age flora and fauna” style with a powerful message of female empowerment.

Fazio is a Central Florida artist with a passion for using her craft to inspire others. Her bio is incredibly impressive, and details a passion for art that resulted in Fazio painting since she “could hold a brush”! Her artistic journey has taken her from her hometown of Lakeland, Florida to creating murals all over the state (and beyond!).

Want to see more of Gillian Fazio’s work? Head over to her website and get inspired by her incredible artistic journey!

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!

Barrel Bridge Returns to Tom Sawyer Island in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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March 31, 2024

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Calling all adventurers! After an extended period of refurbishment, the iconic Barrel Bridge has finally returned to Tom Sawyer Island in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. This wobbly, playful passage has been a cherished part of the island’s experience for years, and its absence left many feeling a bit out to sea. But fear not, treasure hunters – the bridge is back and better than ever!

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The Barrel Bridge has always been a highlight for guests exploring Tom Sawyer Island. The chance to test your balance and camaraderie as you navigate the bobbing barrels brings out the inner Tom Sawyer or Becky Thatcher in all of us. It’s a rite of passage for Magic Kingdom veterans and a delightful surprise for first-time explorers.

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Tom Sawyer Island is all about exploration and imagination. The Barrel Bridge is just one piece of this immersive experience, and its return promises to reignite the spirit of adventure for guests of all ages.

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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!

New Specialty Beverages at Downtown Disney to Celebrate the Launch of Hulu on Disney+

By

Sara

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March 30, 2024

New Specialty Beverages at Downtown Disney to Celebrate the Launch of Hulu on Disney+

Now through April 14 guests visiting the Downtown Disney District can celebrate the launch of Hulu on Disney+ with some specialty beverages!

Guests at Downtown Disney can celebrate the launch with nightly live bands or DJs and three photo backdrop opportunities to step into the stories of “Abbott Elementary,” “The Golden Girls” and “Futurama.” There are also some classic games near the lawn including cornhole, tic tac toe and more.

After working up a sweat from the lawn games, Guests 21+ can check out the all new, limited-time specialty cocktails at select Downtown Disney District restaurants now through April 14.

California Streamin’: Coconut rum, blue curaçao, piña colada mix, and pineapple juice at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio

Experiment 327: Tequila, pineapple, lemon juice, orgeat syrup, and blue curaçao at Naples Ristorante e Bar

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Are these drinks ones you’d like to try?

If you’d like to plan your next visit to the Disneyland Resort, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Experience the Magic: Magic Kingdom’s 2024 Easter Parade

By

Sara

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March 30, 2024

Experience the Magic: Magic Kingdom’s 2024 Easter Parade

As a springtime tradition, Magic Kingdom often delights guests with a charming Easter parade leading up to the beloved Festival of Fantasy parade on holiday weekends.

The Easter pre-parade begins at 11:30 am, setting the stage for the magical procession. Two Cast Members proudly march at the front, carrying a festive banner to announce the pre-parade’s arrival, 30 minutes before the beloved Festival of Fantasy parade.

They’re followed by hippos and ostriches from “Fantasia.” Adding a touch of springtime whimsy, dancers dressed in delightful pastel attire, reminiscent of Main Street’s charm, join the pre-parade procession.

A lovely gazebo float decorated in beautiful flowers follows with Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny. The delightful Easter pre-parade continues with dancers in floral costumes, bursting with springtime colors. Look out for the White Rabbit, hopping along and adding to the merriment.

Bringing up the rear are a clucking good time – a team of chickens! They proudly lead the way for the classic barn float starring the one and only Clara Cluck.

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Have you had a chance to see the Easter pre-parade at Magic Kingdom?

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

Jerry Bruckheimer Says He is Rebooting Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean Franchise without Johnny Depp

By

Chip

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March 30, 2024

Jerry Bruckheimer Says He is Rebooting Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean Franchise without Johnny Depp

It’s been nearly seven years since the last Pirates of the Caribbean movie graced the big screen, and Disney is still charting a course for the blockbuster franchise. While there have been multiple ideas floated, including a Margot Robbie-led film and even a potential return for Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow, it seems a full reboot is now on the horizon.

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In a recent interview with Comicbook.com, legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer discussed his upcoming film TheMinistry of Ungentlemanly Warfare before touching on the future of his popular franchises, Top Gun and Pirates of the Caribbean. When asked which might return first, Bruckheimer hinted at the fresh start for Pirates:

“It’s hard to tell. You don’t know, you really don’t know,” Bruckheimer began. “You don’t know how they come together. You just don’t know. Because with Top Gun you have an actor who is iconic and brilliant. And how many movies he does before he does Top Gun, I can’t tell you. But we’re gonna reboot Pirates, so that is easier to put together because you don’t have to wait for certain actors.”

While a Margot Robbie-starring Pirates film isn’t entirely off the table, it may have become less likely following the massive success of Barbie. However, we can expect the new direction to take bold risks.

The Last of Us creator Craig Mazin, who worked on a story for the reboot alongside original screenwriter Ted Elliot, described their script as “very weird” in an interview with the LA Times, adding that Disney seemed to like it.

Let’s see what kind of strange and wonderful adventures await in this reimagined Pirates world!