The new show tells the story of a small frog from the Louisiana Bayou who is enchanted by and drawn to the bright lights, music, and culture of New Orleans. Water, lighting, and projection effects are all used to bring the story to life.
In the beginning, a brief narration tells about the frog and his dreams of visiting New Orleans. He is inspired to take the leap into “the heartbeat of New Orleans,” and then a jazz score begins to play.
Traditional and 3-D animation is blended as the frog jumps between vibrant scenes of musicians playing different instruments as the jazz score plays. The show concludes with our amphibious friend heading home but taking solace in the knowledge that New Orleans is just a few hops away.
The show is about 5 minutes long and plays several times throughout the night. Showtimes are listed on select nights as 7:35 p.m., 7:55 p.m., 8:40 p.m., 8:55 p.m., and 9:50 p.m. It’ll run through the holiday season.
Is this a show you’d like to see at Disneyland?
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.
November and December Dates Starting to Sell out for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
November and December dates are starting to sell out for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom. There are 25 party dates this holiday season and three have now sold out.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separately ticketed event in Magic Kingdom. The party takes place on select nights in November and December. The party begins at 7 pm and ends at midnight. Guests can enter the park as early as 4 pm.
Ticket prices range from $159 to $199 per adult. Guests can enjoy special entertainment offerings like Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks.
Three of the party dates have now sold out. The first two dates, November 9 and 10, along with December 14 are completely sold out.
Guests can also enjoy exclusive character meet and greets, holiday attraction overlays, event-exclusive merchandise, complimentary cookies and cocoa, and “snow” on Main Street, U.S.A.
Ready to plan your holiday visit to Walt Disney World? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
Disney Cast Members to Receive Commemorative Disney100 Name Tag
Disney Cast Members will be getting commemorative Disney100 name tags soon! All employees of The Walt Disney Company will be getting these special name tags in celebration of the company’s 100th anniversary.
All employees and cast members with a hire date of October 16, 2023, or earlier will receive the commemorative name tag along with a special lithograph. The name tag comes displayed on a notecard featuring information about the history of the Disney name tag.
These Disney100 name tags are platinum with a sparkling “100” across the center. On top of the “100” is the name engraved in black.
These new name tags are not to be worn by the cast members and employees. They are strictly commemorative and not a part of the “Disney look”.
When the Disney100 Celebration began at the Disneyland Resort, cast members there received new Disney100 name tags that they are allowed to wear onstage while at work. Those name tags feature the cast member’s favorite Disney character rather than their hometown.
Ready to plan your next Disney vacation? 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.
Toy Fair 2023 was an immersive journey into the world of toys and games, where innovation and excitement reign supreme. Among the bustling booths, one stood out in the most enchanting way possible – Ravensburger. Renowned for its captivating games and puzzles, Ravensburger did not disappoint this year.
Our visit to the Ravensburger booth was nothing short of amazing and was the highlight of our entire weekend. Our Lorcana encounter with Ryan Miller (co-creator) and hands-on gameplay have our team convinced that Lorcana is destined to be the holiday season’s hottest sensation.
Our adventure began as we entered the Ravensburger booth, where a stunning display of the wildly popular Villainous board game greeted us. Villainous, a game that lets players step into the shoes of Disney’s most iconic villains, has become a board gaming sensation since its debut. The booth was buzzing with excitement, as attendees eagerly explored the latest expansion packs, each centered around a different malevolent Disney villain.
The concept extends beyond Disney Villains and delves into the Marvel and Star Wars Universe additionally. The Villainous experience at Ravensburger’s booth is a highlight in itself, but little did we know that something even more enchanting awaited us. I observed the center of the booth where Ravensburger’s latest game, Lorcana, was being demonstrated. As our appointment time approached, I grew more excited as I eavesdropped on the explanation of the cards and their function within the game.
No words of mine could better describe the lore of the game, so allow me to describe the premise by sharing the story available online:
A Swirl of Colorful Starlight Appears, growing brighter and brighter until it is all you can see. When the burst of light subsides, you find yourself in a wondrous new place. Welcome to the Great Illuminary, the center of a magical realm called Lorcana.
The Illuminary summoned you here because of your powerful imagination. You follow a pulsing line of light through curving hallways and numerous rooms to emerge into a vast atrium. A mechanism there towers over an open book. Sparkling down from above is a stream of colorful story stars, each containing fragments of Disney stories.
Nearby, a unique tool catches your eye. It’s an inkcaster, and when you pick it up, it feels both exciting and familiar. Instinctively, you hold it high above the open book. Magical ink pulsing with energy flows through the mechanism and combines with the light from a story star on a page of the lorebook in front of you, creating an image of a Disney character.
With the power of your inkcaster, the image rises off the page. This is a glimmer, a new version of the character that only exists in this world. As an Illumineer, you can create glimmers of characters and items to add to the lore of Lorcana—a treasure that must be preserved and protected at all costs.
Soon, other Illumineers across the globe will be called to the aid of Lorcana. You’ll summon glimmers to quest with you as you search for missing lore in a race against time. Only together can you protect this wondrous realm from threats.
~Will you answer the call?
Each deck can contain two types of ink that can be used to draw glimmers. Amber, Amethyst, Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, and Steel colored inks are combined to create 60 card decks with which to play the game. There are three types of cards, each with a very clear and easily understood purpose.
The art design of the Lorcana cards is simply breathtaking. Each card is a miniature work of art, meticulously crafted with intricate details and vibrant colors. The Disney characters, both familiar and reimagined, come to life in a way that’s visually stunning. Whether it’s the ethereal glow of magic inks or the dynamic poses of the characters, the cards are a feast for the eyes. The artistry adds an extra layer of enchantment to the gameplay, making every draw and play a visually captivating experience that immerses you deeper into the magical world of Lorcana.
The announcement of Lorcana at the 2023 D23 Expo was an electrifying moment that left no doubt in anyone’s mind that this game was destined for greatness. The anticipation in the expo was electric. However, it was the reaction of the crowd when the pre-release promo cards were revealed that sealed in my mind the game’s fate as a future hit.
The thunderous applause, excited whispers, and gasps of awe from the audience made it abundantly clear that Lorcana had struck a chord with Disney fans and gamers alike. It was a moment of collective recognition that this was not just another card game; it was a magical journey waiting to be embarked upon, and the overwhelming response at the D23 Expo foreshadowed its forthcoming success.
Before I get into my hands-on experience with Lorcana I want to stress something important. I’ve loved playing Customizable Card Games since college. So, you can imagine how thrilled I was to try out the new Lorcana Card Game and get hands-on with a full demonstration. The buzz around this game was palpable, and we couldn’t wait to learn more. That’s when co-developer Ryan Miller, a true magician of game design, approached us with a twinkle in his eye.
Ryan offered to give us a demonstration of Disney Lorcana, and within minutes, we were enchanted by its gameplay. A strategy card game set in the magical world of Disney, Lorcana was easy to pick up, yet offered deep strategic depth. The game’s mechanics seamlessly blended Disney characters and spells, creating an immersive experience that instantly captivated us. This game can be easily learned in minutes, and you can continue to master the game and the mechanics in perpetuity so that you will never grow tired of it.
Our real adventure began when we sat down to play Disney Lorcana with Ryan. He jumped out to an early lead, showcasing his expert understanding of the game. However, the tables soon turned in an unexpected twist of fate. With strategic plays and a touch of Disney magic, thanks to some self-sacrifice from everyone’s favorite snowman Olaf, we managed to secure a surprising victory.
My thrilling victory in Disney Lorcana was undoubtedly the highlight of our time at Toy Fair 2023. The game’s accessibility and strategic depth make it a must-have for any board game enthusiast, and we’re convinced that it will be the hottest game of the upcoming holiday season.
Disney Lorcana’s emergence is also sparking a resurgence of interest in strategy card games, as it seamlessly combines the beloved Disney universe with the depth of traditional strategy card gameplay. Rise of the Floodborn will be released at local game stores and Disney Parks on Friday, November 17th. A special Disney 100 Edition will be released on (December 1st).
Our visit to the Ravensburger booth at Toy Fair 2023 was an enchanting journey filled with magic, strategy, and unforgettable moments. From the captivating Villainous board game to the rising star, Disney Lorcana, we left the booth with hearts full of excitement and anticipation for the gaming adventures that lie ahead. Be sure to keep an eye out for Disney Lorcana – it’s destined to be a holiday season sensation that will reignite the passion for strategy card games.
19 Nonprofit Organizations in Florida to benefit from a $1.5 Million Donation from the Walt Disney Company
Disney has announced a significant philanthropic endeavor, with a generous $1.5 million donation aimed at supporting 19 nonprofit organizations dedicated to creating positive change in the state of Florida. This move reaffirms Disney’s longstanding commitment to the Sunshine State, which has been home to the magical world of Disney for over half a century.
These Disney Grants have been awarded to organizations that are actively engaged in transformative work within the community. Their missions span a wide range of important causes, from bolstering education and workforce development to championing the arts, addressing homelessness and hunger, and much more. Let’s delve into the remarkable work being done by these nonprofit organizations:
Bok Tower Gardens: They are on a mission to inspire a better and more beautiful world.
Central Florida Community Arts: This organization aims to create an artistic family that celebrates natural talents.
Children’s Home Society of Florida: Their focus is on building bridges to success for children.
Christian Service Center: They are dedicated to preventing homelessness, combating poverty, cultivating self-sufficiency, and restoring hope.
Conductive Education Center of Orlando: This organization transforms the lives of children and adults with motor disabilities.
Conservation Florida: Their mission revolves around protecting Florida’s water, wildlife, and wild places.
ELEVATE Orlando: They equip local youth to thrive and make meaningful contributions to their community.
Foundation for Foster Children: Creating meaningful connections for children in foster care.
Habitat for Humanity — Lake & Sumter Counties and Seminole County & Greater Apopka: These chapters of Habitat for Humanity bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope.
Hope Partnership: Their goal is to provide a holistic continuum of care to end homelessness and poverty in Central Florida.
IDignity: They are focused on restoring dignity and hope by providing identification.
Limbitless Solutions at the University of Central Florida: This organization empowers confidence and increases accessibility in the limb difference community through art-infused bionics.
Orlando Science Center: Their mission is to inspire lifelong science learning.
Osceola Arts: They promote, cultivate, and foster interest and participation in the arts.
Page 15: This initiative empowers children of all abilities to discover their own voice.
Steinway Society of Central Florida: They stimulate and nourish the musical knowledge and artistic talents of disadvantaged youth.
Volunteers for Community Impact: Their aim is to end social isolation.
Zebra Coalition: This organization supports and inspires LGBTQ+ youth.
Disney cast members personally volunteer their time and effort with many of these organizations across the state through the Disney VoluntEARS program. In the current year alone, Disney cast members have collectively contributed more than 115,000 hours of volunteer service to the place they call home, where they live, work, and play.
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!
Dining Packages have been added for the new Luminous The Symphony of Us Fireworks Show coming soon to EPCOT
Fireworks Dining packages at EPCOT will continue with the arrival of the all-new Luminous The Symphony of Us Fireworks show. Starting on December 5, 2023, guests with fireworks dining package reservations will be treated to the mesmerizing “Luminous The Symphony of Us,” which will be replacing the current stopgap show EPCOT Forever. Until then, guests can still enjoy the classic EPCOT Forever show with a fireworks package.
For just $79 per adult and $29 per child (ages 3 to 9), inclusive of tax and gratuity, you can indulge in the Spice Road Table Fireworks Dining Package. This 90-minute experience offers not only table-side viewing of the nighttime spectacle but also a mouthwatering prix fixe menu, including:
Your choice of 2 small plates
A shared tagine (available starting May 15, 2023)
A delectable dessert platter
Unlimited beverages
Please note that guests must be 21 years of age or older to enjoy alcoholic beverages, and a valid form of government identification will be required for age verification. While the package price covers the dining experience, theme park admission and reservations are additional requirements.
If you prefer the cozy ambiance of Rose & Crown, their fireworks dining package, priced at $89 per adult and $39 per child (ages 3 to 9), inclusive of tax and gratuity, is a delightful choice. This 90-minute experience includes a prix fixe menu featuring:
One appetizer
One entrée
One delectable dessert
A selection of unlimited beverages
Just like with the Spice Road Table package, guests must be 21 years of age or older to enjoy alcoholic beverages, with a valid ID for verification. As with all dining packages, theme park admission and reservations are essential.
For both packages, check-in begins before the show, either 60 minutes prior to the show for Spice Road Table or 15 minutes prior for Rose & Crown. Your unforgettable dining experience will conclude when the show ends, leaving you with lasting memories of a magical night at EPCOT.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to savor exquisite cuisine while enjoying the enchanting “Luminous The Symphony of Us” fireworks spectacular at EPCOT. Make your reservations now and prepare to be dazzled!
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 Must Have Disney100 Partners Light Up Loungefly Backpack Available Now At shopDisney!
Never forget it all started by a mouse with this new Disney100 Partners Light Up Loungefly Backpack available now online at shopDisney for $88. A beautiful bag to carry the magic with you everywhere you go!
It features an appliquéd silhouette of the iconic Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse ”Partners” statue on the front pocket and all over pattern of colorful fireworks bursting all around, and to make it even cooler, this backpack also glows in the dark and light-up making it all the more magical!
All Aboard the Magic: Lionel Trains Disney100 LionChief Set
Toy Fair 2023 was a whirlwind of excitement and wonder, with a kaleidoscope of new toys and innovations vying for our attention. But amidst the glitter and glamour, there was one booth that transported us back to a simpler time, evoking cherished memories of Christmases past and the joy of childhood. The Lionel Trains Booth was a beacon of nostalgia, showcasing their rich history and the timeless tradition of trains under the Christmas tree.
For many of us, the holiday season is synonymous with cherished traditions. One such tradition that has stood the test of time is the placement of a miniature train set beneath the Christmas tree. It’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations, and it never fails to capture the hearts of young and old alike. The sight and sound of a toy train chugging its way around the tree can transport us to a magical world of wonder and delight.
When it comes to toy trains, there is one name that stands head and shoulders above the rest – Lionel. For over a century, Lionel has been at the forefront of manufacturing toy train sets, delighting generations of enthusiasts and collectors. Founded in 1900, Lionel revolutionized the world of model trains, introducing realistic details and innovative features that set their products apart.
Lionel’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship has earned them a special place in the hearts of train enthusiasts. Their iconic locomotives, intricately detailed cars, and immersive layouts have made Lionel synonymous with the joy of model railroading. And at Toy Fair 2023, Lionel did not disappoint, showcasing their latest creations that continue to captivate imaginations.
One of the highlights of our visit to the Lionel Trains Booth was the Disney 100 Years of Wonder LionChief Set. This exquisite train set pays tribute to a century of Disney magic and features a stunning platinum finish with purple accents that catch the eye and evoke a sense of regal charm.
SET INCLUDES:
Disney100 4-4-2 Steam Locomotive and tender
Disappearing Mickey Mouse Coach Car
Celebration Coach
Observation car
Eight pieces of O36 curved FasTrack®
Two FasTrack® 10″ straight track sections
One LionChief FasTrack® Terminal section
One Plug-Expand-Play® Power Lockon section
Wall-pack power supply
LionChief remote for locomotive
Interior LED illumination will showcase character silhouettes, bringing to life beloved Disney figures that have enchanted audiences for generations. As the train makes its way around the track, passengers will be greeted by the iconic Mickey Mouse, who rides atop the train on a Disappearing Mickey Mouse in “1923” Coach in all his whimsical glory.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. The Disney 100 Years of Wonder LionChief Set is equipped with Mickey Mouse sounds, adding an auditory dimension to the enchanting experience. The unmistakable voice of Mickey Mouse himself fills the air as the train chugs along the rails.
This timeless classic has all the modern-day bells and whistles. The electric locomotive is controlled by the included LionChief remote, LionChief Universal Remote (sold separately), or Bluetooth™ LionChief app. Other enhancements include:
Lionel Voice Control (LVC) – run your locomotive by speaking commands into your phone via the LionChief App
Voice Streaming & Recording (VSR) – record or live stream your own custom announcements via the LionChief App
RailSounds RC™ sound system with steam chuffing and background sounds, whistle, bell, and user-activated announcements
Operating headlight
Powerful maintenance-free motor
Operating couplers
Puffing smoke
The attention to detail in this set is truly remarkable. From the meticulously designed characters to the realistic train sounds, every element is a testament to Lionel’s commitment to creating a magical experience for all ages.
As we marveled at this stunning tribute to Disney’s rich legacy, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and nostalgia. The Disney 100 Years of Wonder LionChief Set is not just a toy; it’s a time machine that transports us to a world of imagination and joy. The set is Molded in a Unique Disney100 Celebration finish to celebrate the centennial celebration of the Disney Corporation.
But the Disney magic didn’t end with the Disney 100 Years of Wonder LionChief Set; Lionel had even more enchanting surprises in store for Disney enthusiasts. We were thrilled to discover other Disney-themed train sets on display at the Lionel Trains Booth.
The Toy Story 0 Gauge Train Set, featuring beloved characters from Andy’s room, the Frozen 2 Ready to Run Electric 0 Gauge Set with its icy allure and characters from the beloved Frozen franchise, and Mickey’s Christmas Express 0 Gauge Set, which captures the festive spirit of Disney’s most iconic character, Mickey Mouse, were all showcased.
These sets were not just trains; they were opportunities to embark on themed adventures, bringing Disney’s enchanting worlds to life right in our own homes. Lionel’s dedication to recreating the magic of Disney through these train sets is a testament to the enduring appeal of Disney’s timeless stories. It’s safe to say that Disney fans of all ages will find something truly special in these delightful train sets, adding a touch of Disney enchantment to their model railroading adventures.
The visit to the Lionel Trains Booth at Toy Fair 2023 was a heartwarming reminder of the enduring charm of toy trains and the tradition of placing them under the Christmas tree. Lionel, with its rich history and commitment to quality, continues to be a driving force in keeping this tradition alive.
As we left the booth, our hearts were filled with a renewed appreciation for the magic of toy trains and the joy they bring to our lives. Lionel’s legacy lives on, ensuring that the tradition of trains under the Christmas tree will continue to captivate the hearts of generations to come. All aboard the magic of Lionel!
You’ll seem regal as a snow queen with this Elsa Ear Headband we spotted at World of Disney in Disney Springs for $34.99! You can also order yours online at shopDisney now.
It features gorgeous pale blue satin fabric ears with blue gemstone studs, a sparkly silver and blue bow with Elsa’s crown charm in the middle and a mesh train with icy, glittering trims for a dramatic flair! You will feel like a true queen anytime you wear them.
You can take a closer look at these Minnie ears in our Instagram post:
Black Tap And Freeform Debut A Graveyard Crazyshake For Halloween
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, the globally acclaimed burger haven, is teaming up with Freeform, Disney’s young adult cable network, to unveil the specially crafted “31 Nights of Halloween” Graveyard CrazyShake—an exclusive delight in honor of Freeform’s “31 Nights of Halloween.” Available for a limited time throughout October at all U.S. Black Tap locations, this devilishly delicious treat is a culinary masterpiece.
The Freeform’s “31 Nights of Halloween” Graveyard Shake features an M&M cookie pie, gravestone cookie, crumbled Oreo, gummy worms, a chocolate-frosted rim, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and orange and black sprinkles. For an extra touch of magic, the limited-time CrazyShake comes with a wooden witch’s brew stick, and exclusively at Black Tap’s Anaheim location, a custom takeaway cup for those opting for to-go orders. Get ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey that captures the spirit of Halloween in every sip and bite.
“Halloween month is all about fun, scares, and sweet treats. Everyone who is looking to indulge in the season of spooky can now grab Freeform’s ‘31 Nights of Halloween’ Graveyard CrazyShake, available exclusively at Black Tap locations, inspired by the flavors of the season — nostalgic holiday favorites like gummy worms, Oreo cookie crumbles, M&M’s and a signature mud pie milkshake,” said Chris Barish, owner of Black Tap. “Our collaboration with Freeform’s ‘31 Nights of Halloween’ brings two iconic brands together, introducing a limited edition, over-the-top (trick or) treat as friends and family gather to watch their favorite Halloween movies.”
Freeform’s “31 Nights of Halloween” programming event returns for its 25th anniversary with a spellbinding lineup of Halloween favorites that will keep viewers enchanted all month. All October long, hair-raising entertainment awaits with a collection of Halloween films ranging from timeless classics to contemporary gems. Reconnect with beloved movies, including “Hocus Pocus,” “Monsters, Inc.,” the 30th anniversary of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Cruella” and “The Addams Family,” and cozy up to the Freeform premieres of “Encanto,” “ZOMBIES” and “ZOMBIES 2.”
New Disney100 Partners Dooney And Bourke Tote Bag Available Now On shopDisney!
If you have been waiting to get a Dooney bag, this is it! The Disney100 Partners Dooney And Bourke Tote Bag is a must have for any Disney fan, just look at it, it features the Partners statue silhouette on the front to remind you that it was all started by a mouse and a Disney castle on the bag for some extra magic!
The celebration of the century carries on in style with this enchanting bag! Part of the Disney100 Platinum Celebration Finale Collection, it captures the thrill and excitement of the celebration with an all over pattern of colorful fireworks plus silhouettes of the Partners statue and Fantasyland castle in glittery silver. Definitely a classy and magical bag to add to your wardrobe!
New Disney Classics Christmas Dooney And Bourke Collection Available Now!
We are getting closer to the holiday season! Give a touch of magic to your style with the new Disney Classics Christmas Dooney And Bourke collection available now online at shopDisney!
It features a tote bag, camera bag, backpack and wristlet wallet for a classic Disney style this holiday season, take a look:
The tote bag is a classic bag style in Dooney & Bourke collections, this one comes in a dark red color with characters on front and inside rim that include Santa Mickey Mouse, Mrs. Santa Minnie Mouse, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Dumbo, Alice, Cheshire Cat, Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Genie, Simba, and Stitch having a magical holiday time and Bambi and Thumper on the back surrounded by snowflakes.
Looking for a practical and stylish bag? The camera bag is the perfect option! This one features an all over pattern of beloved Disney characters like Santa Mickey Mouse, Mrs. Santa Minnie Mouse, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Dumbo, Bambi, Thumper, Alice, Cheshire Cat, Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Genie, Simba and Stitch plus holiday icons like presents, snowflakes, Christmas wreath and more.
It’s a season of mirth and merriment throughout the Magic Kingdom and you’ll be proud to share that happy holiday style when carrying this festive and versatile bag with shoulder straps and carry handle featuring the same all over pattern as the camera bag filled with magic and holiday cheer.
