Disney Legends Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of The Walt Disney Company at Walt Disney’s Historic Mansion
On the evening of Monday, October 16, 2023, the Friends of Woking Way hosted an intimate gathering at Walt Disney’s historic Mansion to commemorate the 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company. Event coordinator Dusty Sage and publicist Jeffrey R. Epstein brought together a distinguished group of attendees, including Disney Legends like Tony Baxter, Bill Farmer, Bob Gurr, and Floyd Norman, along with Bret Iwan, Michael-Leon Wooley, John Stamos, Caitlin McHugh Stamos, and members of the Disney family.
[We’re celebrating] the fact that Roy talked his brother Walt into coming to California and that [their] Uncle Robert welcomed them into his home… and gave them the garage of his house when he saw that grandpa needed someplace to do his art,” said Walt’s granddaughter Joanna Miller. “Thank you so much for having this party, so we can be in this special place to thank Roy and Walt.”
During the event, guests savored delectable hors d’oeuvres provided by Well Done! Catering while mingling in the enchanting mansion that Walt Disney constructed for his family in 1932. The Disney family resided in this remarkable residence until 1950, a period during which the Disney team created iconic cinematic masterpieces such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Dumbo, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Bambi, and Cinderella.
The evening’s program included a special tribute to the legacy of Disney, a sneak peek at the upcoming season of the “Wonderful World of Walt” shorts, skillfully crafted by Creative Capers. The celebration also featured a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” in honor of Bob Gurr, who will celebrate his 92nd birthday next week, humorously noting that he is only eight years younger than the company itself.
“We put together this little soiree so we could do a proper celebration of the gentlemen who made the Disney company something we all love so much,” said event organizer and house historian Dusty Sage. “Here’s to Walt and Roy Disney—and all the people with us here today who are themselves a piece of Disney’s magical century.”
Dusty Sage – MiceChat
Guests had the opportunity to explore the historic mansion through guided tours and were treated to a soul-stirring performance of Walt’s favorite song, “Feed the Birds,” delivered by Michael-Leon Wooley. As a remarkable parting gift, attendees received a unique print of Walt Disney, drawn by Floyd Norman and autographed by both Norman and Bob Gurr.
Get this New Black Cat Cookie at Gideon’s Bakehouse to Support a Good Cause
Embark on a delectable journey with Gideon’s Bakehouse’s newest charity treat, the Black Cat Cookie, designed to support our furry friends at the Liberation Cat House! Resonating with the mysterious charm of black cats, this exquisite dessert boasts a Chocolate Sugar Cookie filled with luscious Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting, all wrapped in a delightful crunch of Black Sugar Crystals.
Available at both Gideon’s Bakehouse locations starting today through Sunday, the 22nd, this marks the first-ever extension of our charity cookie beyond a single day! Act fast—limiting purchases to 2 per person. These limited treats are even scarcer than your typical Limited Cookie, so the early bird catches the catnip-flavored worm!
Most importantly, a significant portion of the proceeds from every Black Cat Cookie at Gideon’s Bakehouse goes directly to supporting our adorable feline friends at Liberation Cat House.
Plus, don’t miss the chance to meet your potential furry companion! Liberation Cat House is hosting a special adoption event featuring cats of all shapes and sizes. Join us in the courtyard of the East End Market this Sunday, the 22nd, from 10 am to 2 pm.
Round up your friends and family—let’s unite these beautiful cats with loving homes! Our mission is to ensure that every kitty finding its way to the event leaves in the arms of a caring person just like you!
Disney Cast Member Makes Positive Waves in Florida
Yesterday, Disney spotlighted the inspiring narrative of Danny Paltjon, a Walt Disney World cast member and the founder of Oceans of Hope Foundation. Danny is creating positive waves within his community in Florida, dedicating himself to establishing accessible spaces and organizing enjoyable activities for individuals with disabilities.
In 2003, after sustaining a spinal cord injury, Danny initially felt like his “world was over not being able to move anything.” However, he soon realized that this setback marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Motivated to empower others facing similar challenges, he founded Oceans of Hope—a nonprofit organization based in Florida that facilitates water activities like surfing and kayaking for individuals with limited or no mobility, ensuring safe and inclusive experiences.
Blending his passion for his organization with his love for Disney, Danny orchestrated a special event for his fellow cast members in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Nearly 30 Disney VoluntEARS and Oceans of Hope volunteers collaborated to provide an exclusive adaptive surfing lesson at Typhoon Lagoon for cast members, their friends, and families.
At Disney World, the commitment to inclusion and ensuring that all cast and community members feel seen, heard, and valued is evident. Recently, Disney World made a donation of $1.5 Million to 19 nonprofits, including the Conductive Education Center of Orlando and Limbitless Solutions at the University of Central Florida. These organizations empower confidence and enhance accessibility for children and adults with motor disabilities or limb differences.
For more information about the incredible cast members and the initiatives undertaken in Florida, one can visit DisneyFlorida.com.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic returns with new themed areas and more
Prepare for a grand return of The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic on Friday, Nov. 10, and Saturday, Nov. 11, boasting its most extensive lineup ever with an abundance of food and beverage choices in its 14-year history. This year’s edition introduces two new themed areas while bringing back crowd favorites like interactive seminars and live entertainment.
Guests are in for a treat with over 25 delectable food offerings from the resort’s acclaimed restaurants and a staggering selection of more than 200 wine, beer, and spirits samples from across the globe. The tasting booths will stretch along the resort’s causeway, private lake, and private beach, serving from 5:30-9 p.m., accompanied by diverse live music and entertainment.
In a special addition for 2023, as this year’s event coincides with Veterans Day, The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin has partnered with the charity Friends of Fisher House Orlando. The charity will receive a charitable contribution from the event, supporting its mission to provide free accommodations for military and veteran families while a loved one undergoes medical treatment.
Two new themed areas will debut this year: For the Love of Florida and The Rosé Room.
For the Love of Florida will brighten guests’ taste buds as it celebrates local cuisine and ingredients with flavors of the Sunshine State. Dishes include:
Seminole Pumpkin Fry Bread with powdered sugar and warm pumpkin spice sauce
Grilled Florida Oysters with housemade kumquat hot sauce and shallot butter
Butter Poached Bay Scallops with Florida corn puree, charred scallion vinaigrette, radish threads and shallot butter
The Rosé Room will transport guests to a tranquil garden party, complete with topiaries, roses, and classical-style covers of modern-day hits. The Rosé Room will serve various selections of rosé amidst a pink color palette perfect for sipping – whether still or sparkling.
Featured food: debut dishes and festival favorites
Guests will find dishes in a variety of cuisines from the resort’s award-winning restaurants, festival-exclusive pop-ups, themed areas and more.
New dishes on the 2023 menu include:
Red chile chicken taco with avocado, tomatillo, pico de gallo and queso fresco on corn tortillas from Rosa Mexicano
Smoked American Lamb: Hand crafted lamb, smoked cumin and harissa barbeque sauce, roasted black pepper and date puree and pickled mustard greens from Smokin’ D’s BBQ specialty area
Gorgonzola cheese filled agnolotti with spiced pear, walnuts, nasturtium and ‘Nduja vinaigrette from Il Mulino
Tonnarelli Pasta: House-made tonnarelli pasta, steamed baby clams, roasted tomato sauce, Calabrian chili and guanciale from Amare
Congee: Slow-cooked rice porridge, shrimp dumpling, fried shallot, green onion, garlic, and crispy chili flakes from Chinatown specialty area
Roasted Linz heritage black angus beef tenderloin with potato puree, pearl onion, Dijon mustard and cognac sauce from Shula’s Steak House
Signature classic guacamole en molcajete with fresh tortilla chips and roasted tomato salsa from Rosa Mexicano
Crispy cauliflower with sweet and spicy Thai chili sauce shoyu from the Beer Garden
Dragon roll: Crispy shrimp, yellowfin tuna, Haas avocado and kewpie mayonnaise from Kimonos
Baked ricotta cheese, carrot two ways, radish, tomato, and pine nut “gremolata” from Il Mulino
All-new dessert options will include:
Triple Chocolate Cherry Ring Flambé with Kirschwasser chocolate sauce and caramelized sesame ice cream
Pear Pecan Praline Cake with black fig compote
Blood Orange and Raspberry Tart
Wild Strawberry Éclair
70% Single Origin Peruvian Chocolate Mousse with mango and passion fruit gel
Upgraded Experiences
Guests looking to enhance their evening can upgrade their experience with two VIP options:
The Grand Tasting: Guests will be led through a journey of elite wines curated by Master Sommelier John Blazon, paired with a custom chef’s table menu from the resort’s Executive Chef Dan Herman. The experience takes place on Saturday, Nov. 11, beginning with a welcome reception at 2:00 pm.
VIP Dessert & Champagne Party: This limited-space dessert and champagne reception offers guests the opportunity to experience fireworks viewing and more at the Swan Reserve’s 15th-floor private event space, The Vue, which offers floor-to-ceiling views of all Walt Disney World theme parks. The resort’s pastry team teamed up with its certified sommeliers to pair incredible champagnes and sparkling wines with delectable desserts. The experience takes place on Saturday, Nov. 11 from 8:30-10 p.m.
An annual fan favorite is the hands-on interactive seminars taught by members of the resort’s award-winning food and beverage team. This year’s classes include Craft Cocktails, Wine Blending, Pasta Making, It’s Better to Wine in Italian (Italian Wines), Base to Bubbles (Champagne), and Beer, Please!
All seminars require separate tickets and space is limited.
Live Entertainment
A key element of the event’s street party atmosphere is live musical entertainment found throughout the event. Performances will feature a variety of musical stylings, including classical; jazz; dance and pop music from yesterday and today; blues, soul and classic rock; Motown and more.
Event and Ticket Information
The Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic offers guests unlimited tastings of more than 25 dishes and over 200 beverage offerings, featuring culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants amidst a festive backdrop of live entertainment on the hotel’s scenic causeway, Friday, Nov. 10 and Saturday, Nov. 11 from 5:30-9 p.m.
Interactive educational seminars highlighting wine, whiskey, beer, pasta and more will take place prior to the causeway event both days. Seminar tickets, event tickets and more information can be found at FoodandWineClassic.com.
With 23 restaurants and lounges and a distinguished culinary and beverage team, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel continually earns national recognition for its food and beverage program.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Coming to Netflix on October 31st
“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” is set to swing onto Netflix just in time for Halloween. After its impressive box office performance, the superhero sequel will make its debut on October 31, exclusively on the streaming platform in the United States.
In May, Sony Pictures, in partnership with Netflix, initially released “Across the Spider-Verse” in theaters. This animated adventure achieved remarkable success, raking in a staggering $381 million in North America and $690 million globally, making it the sixth highest-grossing film of the year. Notably, it surpassed the entire worldwide box office earnings of its predecessor, the 2018 Oscar-winning “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” within just two weeks of its theatrical release. Fans can also look forward to a third installment, “Beyond the Spider-Verse,” which is scheduled for a theatrical release in 2024.
The movie follows the journey of Miles Morales, the Spider-Man of this particular universe, as he catapults into the Multiverse and crosses paths with a team of Spider-People tasked with safeguarding its very existence. When these heroes clash over how to handle a new threat, Miles is compelled to redefine the essence of heroism. The talented voice cast includes Shameik Moore as Miles Morales, along with Hailee Steinfeld, Brian Tyree Henry, Jake Johnson, Jason Schwartzman, and Issa Rae.
“Across the Spider-Verse” is among several new family-friendly films that will be available on Netflix during the fall and winter seasons. The upcoming lineup also features the heartwarming holiday film “Best Christmas Ever” (releasing on November 16), Adam Sandler’s animated feature “Leo” (coming on November 21), the film “Family Switch,” starring Jennifer Garner and Ed Helms (scheduled for November 30), and “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget” (premiering on December 15).
As the Spider-Verse saga swings into Netflix, it promises a thrilling and multiverse-spanning adventure. With Miles Morales and a team of Spider-People, this superhero tale redefines what it means to be a hero, offering an exhilarating experience for fans to look forward to. We can’t wait for October 31st.
Morimoto Asia Disney Springs will host 3 events in December featuring Iron Chef Morimoto
World-renowned Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto is making a special appearance at Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs for a weekend of delightful festivities. The culinary master is hosting not just one, but THREE unforgettable events that promise to tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories!
Event 1:Suntory 100th Anniversary Tasting: A Century of Fine Whiskeys
Join Chef Morimoto on Friday, Dec. 1 & Saturday, Dec. 2, from 5 – 6:30 p.m. to celebrate the remarkable 100-year journey of House of Suntory’s fine whiskeys. Over these two evenings, a privileged few will have the chance to sample an array of exceptional whiskeys, each more exquisite than the last, accompanied by a selection of gourmet small bites. This is a toast to a century of distillation excellence!
Tickets: $355 plus tax and gratuity per person. Attendees must be 21 years or older. Purchase:Click HERE to buy tickets.
Event 2: Momokase: An Exclusive Culinary Delight with Chef Morimoto
This is the event for those who yearn for an exclusive and personalized gastronomic experience. Limited to just 10 fortunate guests each evening, the “Momokase” promises an intimate seven-course meal with every dish personally prepared by Iron Chef Morimoto! As if that weren’t tempting enough, each dish will be paired with rare whiskeys from House of Suntory’s signature collection. Adventurous spirits can even upgrade to sample a pour from the rare Yamazaki 55 – one of only 200 bottles in the world.
Tickets: Starting at $2,000 per person plus tax and gratuity, this event will be available on Friday, Dec. 1 & Saturday, Dec. 2, starting at 7 p.m. Only for those aged 21 and above. Purchase:Reserve your spot HERE.
Cap off the weekend festivities by getting into the holiday spirit, Morimoto style! Hosted by Chef Morimoto himself on Sunday, December 3, attendees can sample 12 distinct and delightful beers, each paired with a scrumptious bite. For families, this event is even more special, as kids can enjoy non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring fun for all ages. Choose from two time slots and various seating options to make the most of this festive occasion.
Tickets: Adults at $95 and children at $55, both plus tax and gratuity. Purchase:Get your tickets HERE.
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!
Guests wishing to experience Rise of the Resistance will need to utilize the virtual queue during Disney’s Jollywood Nights
Disney’s Jollywood Nights is shaping up to be the holiday event of the season. Running on select nights from November 11 to December 20, 2023, this celebration promises a fantastic blend of attractions, character encounters, and dazzling entertainment. But there’s one thing attendees need to be especially aware of: the virtual queue is returning for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is returning!
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after attractions in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Its detailed narrative, groundbreaking technology, and immersive design make it a fan favorite. To ensure guests are able to enjoy all that Jollywood Nights has to offer without spending a ton of party time waiting in line for Rise of the Resistance, they will be implementing the virtual queue system for this attraction during the Jollywood Nights.
Rather than spending hours in line, a virtual queue allows guests to virtually “hold” their spot and enjoy other event attractions. They can then join the ride when their turn comes up, allowing for more time to revel in the seasonal festivities. Disney has not yet released specifics on how the virtual queue for Rise of the Resistance will work. Note this is ONLY for Jollywood Nights, regular park hours will continue to utilize the stand-by queue.
More About Jollywood Nights
The theme of Jollywood Nights extends to swanky venues and hotspots throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios. From the DJ-led holiday party on Hollywood Boulevard to the Latin-inspired Holiday Fiesta en la Calle on Commissary Lane, there’s music, food, and fun at every corner.
Apart from Rise of the Resistance, guests can anticipate lower wait times for attractions like the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, Slinky Dog Dash, and the iconic Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
The character encounters are set to be a memorable affair. From meeting the classic duo of Mickey and Minnie Mouse to catching up with Edna Mode from “The Incredibles” or dancing with Powerline Max and the quirky duo Phineas and Ferb, there’s no shortage of festive fun.
Entertainment is the highlight of the night with exclusive shows. Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy lead a musical extravaganza at the Theater of the Stars. Fans of “The Nightmare Before Christmas” can sing their hearts out at the Hyperion Theater. And of course, the much-loved Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! will light up the night with its special effects and stunning projections.
Disney Jollywood Nights promises a captivating blend of attractions, entertainment, and festive spirit. While enjoying all that’s on offer, remember to check back on the details of joining the virtual queue for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. It’s sure to be a night of unforgettable memories and magical moments.
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!
A new Disneyland Resort Halloween scavenger hunt has arrived for guests to experience! If you’ll be at the resort between now and Halloween, undertake this quest and check out these thirteen frightfully fun riddles that will lead you to some hauntingly hard-to-find spots.
Here are the clues for the Halloween scavenger hunt at the Disneyland Resort:
Disneyland Park
On the main street you follow if you look up after a while, you’ll find a 20th century musician with a pompadour style.
At the festively frightening house Halloween cheer seems to overflow, there is a noble steed hitched and ready to go.
Where jazz comes alive, there are many places in which to take pause. In one window, you can find a collection of skeleton items, who all love Sandy-Claws.
In Frontierland is a plant you can’t miss, growing ghoulish gourds unlike any you’ve seen before this.
“To Infinity and beyond!” this pumpkin would shout to all. Say hi to Mickey Mouse and Walt while you visit this intergalactic pal.
In the afternoon this frightful pair may be found in New Orleans Square, go say hello, take a picture, but don’t have a nightmare.
Disney California Adventure Park
At the Collector’s Fortress, monsters run amok after 3. If you pay attention to the screen, a familiar ghostly face you may see.
In a land full of cars we have a ghoulish blue friend, if you’re going to Casa Della Tires he is there to welcome you in.
All beware, it’s the season of the dead. On Buena Vista Street, you might even stumble upon a man with no head.
At the entrance of the park, you’ll find a frightful sight. He’s someone you can expect to see better at night.
At the top of an iconic tower you’ll miss it if you look down, you’ll find a horde of vampiric creatures flying around.
Downtown Disney District
Tired of the fright and want something with more flair? Check out the The Disney Dress Shop and you may find a stylish pumpkin there.
If during the day you’re searching for a sweet treat, in Downtown Disney District you’ll find an apple like what Snow White had to eat.
There’s still time to celebrate Halloween at the Disneyland Resort! Contact me to get your trip planned. I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
DisneyBand+ is Now On-Sale for Guests Sailing on the Disney Dream
Guests sailing on the Disney Dream, starting with the November 20, 2023 sailing, can now purchase DisneyBand+! DisneyBand+ is Disney Cruise Line’s version of a MagicBand and is a waterproof wristband designed to enhance your Disney cruise experience.
Eligible Guests on select sailings aboard the Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic—and starting with the November 20, 2023 voyage on the Disney Dream—are invited to purchase DisneyBand+!
From the moment you step aboard the ship on embarkation day and enter your stateroom, to effortlessly charging specialty food and merchandise to your stateroom folio using DisneyBand+, this innovative feature brings convenience, enjoyment, and an extra touch of magic to your cruise experience!
DisneyBand+ delivers a seamless, hands-free experience both onboard the ship and on Disney Castaway Cay. What’s more, it promises delightful surprises! DisneyBand+ transforms onboard enchantment into a reality. You’ll witness your band coming to life with mesmerizing light displays and immersive haptic vibrations during interactive experiences, spanning from dining rooms to fireworks, and even in the atrium and kids clubs!
Ready to book your next cruise and experience the convenience of DisneyBand+? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
First Look at 2023 runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend Merchandise
The 2023 runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend is coming up soon! The event will take place at Walt Disney World Nov. 2-5. Along with good food and good company, athletes will have access to some delectable race-exclusive merchandise!
It’s a fantastical and magical collection of merchandise for this year’s event, showcasing the Disney characters from each race distance in a variety of logo performance apparel and “I Did It!” Finisher products, including shirts in multiple styles and jackets. You’ll want to complete your look with the race weekend Spirit Jersey and matching hat and ear headband.
Whether you’re taking on 3.1 or 19.3 delicious miles, runners participating in the weekend events will find something worth taking home. Carry your race weekend medals in one of the varieties of themed bag styles from Lug or the Loungefly mini backpack. Or take home one of the other exciting products, including commemorative pins, drinkware and so much more!
Look for these commemorative items and more during the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Guests are invited to attend during the following dates and times:
Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 3, 2023: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend participants looking to access the first day of the runDisney Merchandise Shop can do so from the comfort of their Walt Disney World Resort Hotel or home by joining the virtual queue! Keep in mind, the virtual queue will be the only way to access the shop on the first day of the Expo.
Will you be participating in the 2023 runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend?
Ready to plan your next visit to the Walt Disney World Resort? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
New Animal Kingdom Minnie Ears Spotted At Walt Disney World!
Looking to add a wild touch to your park style? These Animal Kingdom Minnie Ears will help you achieve just that! You can get yours at Animal Kingdom for $34.99, they are not available at shopDisney yet but we hope to see them there very soon.
The ears feature earthy colors like orange, brown and green with animals and nature icons silhouettes on both sides of the ears and a satin bow with brown, red, orange and green colors and a Tree of Life charm in the middle.
The headband features the same pattern as the ears plus “Disney’s Animal Kingdom” logo embroidered on a side. You can take a closer look at these Minnie ears in our Instagram post:
New Frozen Collection Available At Hollywood Studios!
Give your style an icy regal touch with the new Frozen Collection we found at Hollywood Studios that includes apparel and accessories you will love! These pieces are also available online at shopDisney so you can get your favorite ones without leaving your home, take a look:
Work your magic in this cool and colorful Elsa semi cropped top. The lovely Elsa stars in the dramatic allover print that also features her ice castle, geometric shapes and snowflakes. Soft and stylish, it is sure to make you feel like a force of nature.
Embrace your inner snow queen in style with this beautiful blue ombre tulle skirt with “The Cold Never Bothered Me Anyway” embroidery on the waistband and an Olaf applique. Super cute!
Feel like a force of nature in these glittering, shimmering Crocs with an allover ombre glitter design and Jibbitz charms of Elsa, Anna, colorful gems and sparkling snowflakes!
This backpack is gorgeous! It features Anna on the front pocket and Elsa in the main part of the backpack showing her icy powers with the castle and snowy mountains on the back. The rest of the backpack features a beautiful mix of pink, purple and blue colors and silver foil snowflakes making it the perfect accessory for this winter!
