New Jabba the Hutt Popcorn Bucket & More Coming to Disneyland’s Season of the Force

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March 25, 2024

New Jabba the Hutt Popcorn Bucket & More Coming to Disneyland’s Season of the Force

Prepare yourselves for a journey into a galaxy far, far away filled with delectable treats and Star Wars-themed delights as Disneyland Resort launches its Season of the Force event on April 5th, running through June 2, 2024.

Among the exciting offerings are several new collectible items that Star Wars fans won’t want to miss, including the Jabba the Hutt Popcorn Bucket, and Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket.

Other exciting offerings include the Grogu Sipper, Millennium Falcon Bucket, Death Star Glow Cube, Millennium Falcon Glow Cube, Rancor Beer Flight Souvenir Board with Four Teeth, Darth Vader Premium Mug, and Acid Spitter Orb Sipper, each with their own unique features and limited availability.

Whether you’re craving a tasty snack or looking to add to your Star Wars memorabilia collection, Disneyland’s Season of the Force promises an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages. Don’t miss out on these limited-time offerings during your visit to the Happiest Place on Earth!

Here is a list of Souvenir Items you won’t want to miss!

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Jabba the Hutt Bucket (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting April 5). Available at the following locations:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill, Popcorn near Star Trader
Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting May 4). Available at the following locations:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill, Kat Saka’s Kettle, beverage carts in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Popcorn near Star Trader

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Darth Vader Stainless Steel Tumbler: Includes fountain beverage at time of purchase (New)(Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting April 5). Available at the following locations:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill, Tomorrowland Fruit Cart
- Hotels of the Disneyland Resort: GCH Craftsman Grill
Grogu Sipper: Includes fountain beverage or DASANI Bottled Water at time of purchase (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting April 5). Available at the following locations:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill, Tomorrowland Fruit Cart, Lemonade near Tomorrowland Expo Center
Millennium Falcon Bucket (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting April 5). Available at the following locations:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill, Popcorn near Star Trader
Death Star Glow Cube: Can be added on to your beverage (Available starting April 5). Available at the following location:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill
Millennium Falcon Glow Cube: Can be added on to your beverage (Available starting April 5). Available at the following location:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill

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Rancor Beer Flight Souvenir Board with Four Teeth (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply). Available at the following location:
- Disneyland park: Oga’s Cantina

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Darth Vader Premium Mug: Includes fountain beverage or DASANI bottled water at time of purchase (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting April 5). Available at the following location:
- Disneyland park: Galactic Grill
Acid Spitter Orb Sipper: Includes choice of fountain beverage at time of purchase (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply). Available at the following locations:
- Disneyland park: Oga’s Cantina, Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, Ronto Roasters

An Inside Look at New Disney Cabins Construction at Disney’s Ft Wilderness

By

Chris B

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March 25, 2024

Guests visiting Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort will likely notice the cabins are taking on an all-new look. Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney World’s Facility Asset Management team are hard at work bringing new Fort Wilderness cabins to life. The construction of these cabins, which takes place in a discreet warehouse in Orlando, Florida is a blend of creativity and innovation.

The new cabins will offer comforts for guests familiar with the previous cabins, such as sleeping arrangements for six guests, a private patio, and a spacious living room, while also being dog-friendly. Additionally, they will feature upgrades DVC guests have come to expect, like a stove in the kitchen, larger windows for more natural light, and artwork that celebrates Fort Wilderness’s history, including nods to the former River Country water park.

The construction process is a collaborative effort with local Florida businesses, JCQ Services and Friedrich Watkins Company, employing a total of 150 people. This innovative approach emphasizes sustainability, with a technique that limits metal waste to less than 1%, which can be recycled.

Dean Huspen, Executive Architect with Walt Disney Imagineering, shared, “We developed a pre-fabrication strategy to construct cabin components off-site, ensuring minimal disruption at Fort Wilderness and maintaining high-quality construction” while Jeff Friedrich, owner of Friedrich Watkins Company, added, “We’re using a cutting-edge machine that reads plans from Walt Disney Imagineering to create customized metal studs, saving time and minimizing waste.”

The first set of cabins will open to guests on July 1st, 2024. Guests interested in booking a stay at the new cabins using either DVC points or via a cash booking can book now.

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!

Original Music Loop Returns to The Land Pavilion in EPCOT

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Chris B

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March 25, 2024

Classic EPCOT is back! At least, it is at The Land Pavilion. The original 1982 music loop for The Land Pavilion has made a comeback and can now be enjoyed outside the pavilion while exploring World Nature.

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For the past few years, a modern music loop has been setting the ambiance throughout World Nature, World Discovery, and World Celebration. However, with the recent opening of World Celebration Gardens, a new music loop was introduced for that area and the park entrance, leaving World Nature and World Discovery with generic music loops.

The era of the generic loop has come to an end, and the original area music is back! The Land Pavilion, a staple of EPCOT since its opening on October 1, 1982, is the home of Living with the Land, Soarin Around the World, Garden Grill, Sunshine Seasons, and “Awesome Planet.”

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 ‘Dreamers at Work’ Signs Added to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

By

Chris B

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March 25, 2024

The transformation of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom is progressing swiftly. Recently, Imagineers were seen testing the ride, which is scheduled to open this summer. In recognition of the ongoing work, new ‘Dreamers at Work’ signs have recently been added to the construction walls.

Similar signs were installed recently on the construction walls around EPCOT. The Dreamers at Work signs typically depict familiar Disney characters or a logo related to the attraction as well as quotes from either Walt Disney or popular Disney movies.

The Dreamers at Work Signs at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure contain quotes such as “That Old Star Can Only Take You Part Of The Way. You Got TO Help It Along With Some Hard Work of Your Own” which is a line that Tiana says in the Princess and the Frog, as well as another Tiana line “The Only Way To Get What You Want In This World Is Through Hard Work”. The signs are all attributed to PPG Paints, the official paint supplier of both Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

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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!

Dapper Dans Debut New Spring Outfits in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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March 25, 2024

Spring has arrived at the Magic Kingdom, and with it comes a fresh look for the beloved Dapper Dans! The iconic barbershop quartet is turning heads with their new springtime outfits, showcasing a perfect blend of vibrant colors and classic designs.

The Dapper Dans are known for their harmonious tunes and charming presence on Main Street, U.S.A. But now, they’re also making a fashion statement. Their new outfits feature a delightful mix of bright hues and dapper details, capturing the essence of spring.

From the soft pastels to the eye-catching patterns, each element of their attire has been carefully chosen to reflect the joy and renewal of the season. The next time you’re strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., be sure to keep an eye out for the Dapper Dans and their stunning new spring outfits. It’s the perfect way to embrace the season and add a touch of magic to your day!

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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!

Merlin Entertainment Buys The Wheel at Icon Park and Renames it ‘The Orlando Eye’ Again

By

Chip

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March 25, 2024

Merlin Entertainment Buys The Wheel at Icon Park and Renames it ‘The Orlando Eye’ Again

Merlin Entertainment, a leading provider of branded entertainment destinations globally, is making significant strides in expanding its presence in Orlando and Central Florida. The company recently acquired The Wheel at ICON Park, previously known as the tallest observation attraction on the U.S. East Coast. Renamed as The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments, this iconic attraction is now part of the company’s portfolio of family-friendly attractions and theme parks in the region.

Alongside The Orlando Eye, Merlin Entertainments also operates SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando, both situated within ICON Park. Additionally, the company’s offerings in Central Florida include LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida.

This expansion reflects Merlin Entertainment’s commitment to providing diverse and exciting entertainment experiences for visitors to Orlando and Central Florida, further enhancing the region’s reputation as a premier tourism destination.

The attraction is the first acquisition made under the leadership of Merlin Entertainments’ CEO Scott O’Neil and demonstrates the company’s strategic focus on expanding its Gateway ‘mega-clusters’ of attractions in leading tourist cities throughout the world. “Today’s acquisition of the Orlando Wheel in the vitally important tourist hub of Orlando demonstrates our Gateway strategy in action and serves to replicate our successful London Gateway formula, whereby we have clustered four of our branded attractions alongside the iconic anchor that is The London Eye,” states CEO, Scott O’Neil. Similarly, The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments will become an unmissable stop on visitors’ itineraries, delivering an elevated experience with unobstructed 360-degree views of the ICON Park area and beyond. We look forward to connecting guests to our wider portfolio of premium attractions and resort theme parks in and around Orlando as well, including our SEA LIFE aquarium, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park” states Scott O’Neil, CEO, of Merlin Entertainments.

ICON Park’s President and CEO Chris Jaskiewicz said Merlin’s expansion plans fit well with its own growth strategy of continuing to sign quality restaurant, live entertainment and attraction tenants to its 20-acre destination in the center of the Orlando Entertainment District on International Drive. “We successfully built and developed it into a famous Orlando landmark, and now welcome The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments as one of our outstanding ICON Park tenants. We’re proud that Merlin recognized the global appeal of this attraction, and of ICON Park as a destination, in selecting us as the site to expand their popular brands in Central Florida.”

“Merlin’s newest attraction, The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments, is located in the heart of Orlando where visitors will experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Central Florida, including nearby theme parks and attractions, downtown Orlando, and Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s east coast,” said General Manager of Madame Tussauds Orlando, Paul Gould. “We’ve brought together a wonderful mix of attractions within walking distance from each other to appeal to domestic and international tourists traveling to our city.”

Located in ICON Park, in the center of International Drive, the 400-foot-tall Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments features 30 air-conditioned glass capsules. Each capsule has room for up to 15 guests to enjoy a serene 20-minute journey above the scenic landscape where they can enjoy a sense of calm as they are lifted away in a bubble of serenity above the hustle and bustle of Orlando.

In 2023, 27% of guests who visited Merlin’s Orlando-based Madame Tussauds also visited Merlin’s SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. Similarly to Merlin’s expanding cluster of Orlando-based attractions, the world-leader in branded entertainment destinations owns and operates several of London’s most iconic and popular entertainment attractions including the 443-foot-tall London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds London, The London Dungeon, and Shrek’s Adventure London. According to figures by VisitBritain and Merlin guest data, more than one-quarter of tourists who come to London visit at least one of Merlin’s attractions.

Of the 16 U.S. states boasting Merlin attractions, Florida is now home to five attractions, and was the site of Merlin’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park, which opened in 2022. In 2023, Merlin announced the construction of America’s second Peppa Pig Theme Park, set to open in Dallas-Fort Worth in summer 2024; which is one of two Peppa Pig attractions currently under construction globally. Merlin’s three U.S.-based LEGOLAND Resorts in Florida, California, and New York are some of the most popular and most visited of Merlin’s 10 LEGOLAND theme parks open globally.

Tickets to The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments are available at ICON Park, located at 8375 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 and online. Visit TheOrlandoEye.com for information or to purchase entry to The Orlando Eye and Merlin’s other Orlando-based attractions, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and Madame Tussauds Orlando.

Disneyland Haunted Mansion Replica Home Hits the Market for $2 Million

By

Sara

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March 25, 2024

Disneyland Haunted Mansion Replica Home Hits the Market for $2 Million

A home that is a replica of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion is now on sale! You can purchase it for just over $2 million.

Nestled in Duluth, Georgia, this mansion was meticulously crafted by its original owner, Mark Hurt, mirroring the iconic design of Disneyland’s classic attraction. Listed at $2.2 million, it boasts six bedrooms and six bathrooms spread across more than 9,000 square feet of luxurious space.

If you’ve ever fantasized about strolling along the upper porch of the Haunted Mansion, the lucky owner of this property can indulge in just that, as the main bedroom grants access to a private upper porch. What’s more, the cast iron elements were meticulously crafted in the same foundry utilized for the Disneyland mansion.

Despite its imposing size, the interior of the home exudes modern elegance rather than haunted vibes. Boasting a chef’s kitchen, butler’s pantry, grilling deck, sunroom, and a two-tier entertainment space, among other distinctive features, it offers a luxurious living experience.

You can take a virtual tour of the house here!

Would you want to live in this replica of the Haunted Mansion?

Wondrous Journeys Nighttime Spectacular returns to Disneyland

By

Sara

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March 25, 2024

Wondrous Journeys Nighttime Spectacular returns to Disneyland

Wondrous Journeys, the newest nighttime spectacular at the Disneyland Resort, has returned for a limited time!

“Wondrous Journeys” returns to Disneyland Park, captivating audiences until April 14, 2024. The show originally debuted as part of the Disney100 Celebration at the Disneyland Resort on January 27, 2023, and had its final performance on August 31, 2023. It returned to Disneyland on March 22.

After concluding its 2024 stint on April 14, it will make way for a brief engagement of “Mickey’s Mix Magic” until April 25, succeeded by “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular,” scheduled to run until August 4, seamlessly transitioning into the Halloween season. We’re hoping Wondrous Journeys will return briefly between the end of Pixar Fest and the start of the Halloween season on August 23.

This nighttime extravaganza celebrates Walt Disney Animation Studios by transforming Sleeping Beauty Castle, Main Street U.S.A., and the facade of “it’s a small world” into vibrant projection canvases. With fireworks illuminating the sky, guests are transported into the enchanting worlds of beloved animated characters.

Have you had a chance to experience Wondrous Journeys at Disneyland?

Ready to book your Disneyland trip? Contact me today to start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical and stress-free vacation.

Royal Beach Club Cozumel Experience Coming in 2026

By

Sara

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March 25, 2024

Royal Beach Club Cozumel Experience Coming in 2026

Royal Caribbean International is introducing a fresh beach club encounter. The Royal Beach Club Cozumel, situated in Mexico, marks the second installment in the Royal Beach Club Collection, set to open its doors in 2026.

With its stunning beaches, array of sun-filled activities, and spacious pools catering to every mood, the Royal Beach Club Cozumel promises to offer vacationers the epitome of a beach day in Mexico. Expect nothing less than Royal Caribbean’s hallmark dedication to detail throughout the experience, service, and design.

Visitors will relish a blend of experiences, ranging from laid-back moments to thrilling adventures. Dive into swim-up bars, unwind at dedicated pools for both relaxation seekers and families, indulge in private cabanas, and explore activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. Additionally, to savor the essence of Mexico and beloved beach day delights, an array of dining options awaits, including a restaurant, a bar and lounge boasting scenic vistas and rich flavors, a street market infused with authentic Mexican cuisine, and hands-on encounters like tequila tastings and cooking classes.

Ready to plan your next cruise with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line? 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 wonderful vacation!

Ride Testing Signs Installed at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom

By

Catherine

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March 24, 2024

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom Ride Testing Signs Installed

Disney’s highly anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom is steadily progressing, with recent updates that show its exciting developments. Crews worked overnight to install new signs around the flume, signaling that the ride is in the testing phase and not yet open to guests.

The signs, featuring Louis the alligator, a key character in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, boast a design that harmonizes with the Mardi Gras posters adorning the construction walls. Positioned strategically at the bottom of the flume loop, these signs provide a playful nod to the upcoming attraction’s theme and characters.

Progress on the ride itself has been notable, with water testing beginning in early February and the arrival of refurbished Splash Mountain log ride vehicles. These vehicles, now equipped with new lap bars, underwent testing on the ride’s drop with water dummies, hinting at the thrilling experiences awaiting future riders!

Outside the ride, enhancements continue with the installation of more real and realistic plants, including ferns and flowers surrounding the artificial trees near the mountain-turned-salt-mine. The transformation of the former briar patch into a Louisiana bayou has been confirmed, showcasing the immersive storytelling Disney is known for.

Disney is dedicated to creating an immersive and enchanting experience for guests with the exciting new ride opening this summer. As work continues both inside and outside Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, anticipation builds for the day when guests can finally embark on this magical journey through the bayou with Princess Tiana and her friends. We can’t wait!

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Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort DVC Tower Construction Update for Late March

By

Chris B

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March 24, 2024

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The new DVC Tower and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is slated to open this year. Construction progress on the exterior of the resort has continued, with details such as paint and exterior embellishments being installed recently.

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The paint scheme reflects the artist rendering that was released back when the resort was first announced, and really softens the overall look of the resort building.

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The exterior roof overhang have been installed on the side of the building that faces the Seven Seas Lagoon, and paint trim is being added to give the resort a wood look. The resort is slated to open in late 2024, and will be part of the current Disney Vacation Club association when it opens.

What are your thoughts on this new addition to the Polynesian Village Resort? Leave us a comment to let us know!

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!

Aerial overview of the show fountain area in Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe

By

Chris B

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March 24, 2024

As the 2025 opening day of Epic Universe continues to inch closer, we have a construction update to share with you. Thanks to X user bioreconstruct, we have photos on the progress of the show fountain that will be located in the Celestial Park area.

Aerial photo of the Epic Universe show fountain. A thin layer of accumulated rain is reflecting Helios Grand Hotel.
In foreground is construction of splash pad. pic.twitter.com/jzySzKGt5Y
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) March 23, 2024

The show fountain, located in the heart of Celestial Park, is set to be a large water feature in front of the in-park Helios Grand Hotel. The fountain is destined to be an eye-catching feature of the park, especially at night!

Celestial Park is described as the cosmic heart of Universal’s Epic Universe; place where thrilling rides, entertainment, dining, shopping, and the Universal Helios Grand Hotel all come together to create an amazing world of discovery and excitement. Set to open in 2025, Celestial Park promises lush greenery, tree-lined walkways, and dancing fountains that will captivate guests and transport them to a world between worlds full of sensory delights.

Among the attractions to look forward to in Celestial Park are the Starfall Racers, a breathtaking dual-launch coaster that reaches incredible speeds of up to 62 mph. Riders will board a comet and rocket to the furthest reaches of the stars, racing along 5,000 feet of track and experiencing an inverted crisscross known as the “Celestial Spin.” Additionally, the Constellation Carousel offers a whimsical ride on celestial lions, dragons, bears, and more, as the constellations themselves take physical form in this imaginative, cosmic carousel.

With its promise of cosmic adventures, thrilling rides, and enchanting attractions, Epic Universe is set to be a must-visit destination for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to embark on a journey of discovery and excitement. We cannot wait for the park to open next year!

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!