Disney World Honors Families of Fallen Military Heroes

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February 9, 2024

Disney World Honors Families of Fallen Military Heroes

Disney recently teamed up with the NFL to honor families of fallen military heroes. The families were welcomed to Magic Kingdom as part of a special, fun-filled trip to Florida last weekend.

The military families came to Disney World from across the country as part of a special NFL Pro Bowl experience organized by the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors or “TAPS” for short. During the families’ visit to Orlando, they were treated to a full day at Walt Disney World before the NFL hosted them for the Pro Bowl at Camping World Stadium on Feb. 4.

A special weekend full of Football and Magic

TAPS is a nonprofit organization that provides support services to the loved ones of fallen service members, also known as Gold Star families. Honoring families who have given so much in service of our country is part of Disney’s values, so it was an incredible privilege to be able to provide them with a special welcome to the Most Magical Place on Earth alongside the NFL.

On hand to help welcome the families of the fallen and the TAPS team were Mickey Mouse, the Walt Disney World Ambassadors and members of the Disney SALUTE veteran employee resource group who understand the loss of fellow service members due to military-connected service.

The families shared beautiful moments honoring and remembering their fallen hero. Disney was honored to help make these families’ time at Walt Disney World extra special as they created new and unforgettable memories.

“At TAPS we honor our fallen heroes every day,” said Diana Roday Hosford, TAPS Vice President, Sports & Entertainment. “We appreciated celebrating the life and service of all our loved ones with the Disney SALUTE team and all the cast members who made us feel like family when they welcomed us to the Magic Kingdom. Our time in Walt Disney World brings such joy and happiness to our TAPS families, it’s always very special to be here.”

“Our parks are places that create happiness for all who visit, especially military families who can just enjoy being together in between times of extended separations,” said Walt Disney World Ambassador Serena Arvizu. “Being able to show support and provide this magical space for families to heal is one of the best parts of working for this company – it’s the Disney difference in action.”

Disney’s enduring salute to military service

The Walt Disney Company has long admired and honored military service throughout its 100-year history. All the cast members who helped bring this special opportunity to life for these special families were proud to carry on this tradition of saluting those who serve in uniform and their families – it’s what being part of the Disney Cast Life is all about.

Broadway Star Michael James Scott Kicks Off Black History Month Festivities at Walt Disney World

By

Sara

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February 9, 2024

Broadway Star Michael James Scott Kicks Off Black History Month Festivities at Walt Disney World

Broadway star Michael James Scott kicked off the Black History Month celebration at Walt Disney World Resort this week as the grand marshal in a magical parade at Magic Kingdom Park.

Scott, who dazzles theatre audiences with his performance as Genie in the hit Disney musical “Aladdin,’’ was the center of attention during the Festival of Fantasy Parade down Main Street, U.S.A., that featured popular Disney characters, toe-tapping music and colorful pageantry.

While at Magic Kingdom, Scott interacted with Disney cast members, posed for photos and experienced some of the park’s signature attractions, such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise and Haunted Mansion.

The parade is just one of the ways that guests are “Celebrating Soulfully’’ through music, art and food at Walt Disney World Resort throughout February and beyond.

Three Black artists are participating this month in the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, a celebration of artistic expression in all forms. Guests can view their artwork until Feb. 19. Also, several Black artists are performing on stage at America Gardens Theatre during the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series on select nights during the festival.
The Disney Springs Art Walk features Black artists and their colorful murals that celebrate Black culture and expression. Likewise, there’s a new creation by internationally renowned Nigerian American artist Victor Ekpuk at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park that explores historical narratives and contemporary African diaspora.
Also at Animal Kingdom, guests can also learn how to replicate the animations of Floyd Norman, Disney’s first credited Black animator. Norman helped animate characters from the popular Disney movie “The Jungle Book.’’
Throughout Walt Disney World, there are food and beverage items from Disney’s “Cooking with Soul” These are classic comfort foods prepared by a diverse group of Walt Disney World chefs, such as shrimp & grits and red velvet cake.
And guests can always interact with a variety of popular and diverse characters, such as Tiana at Magic Kingdom, Ariel from the live-action story “The Little Mermaid’’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Asha at EPCOT.

Ready to celebrate Black History Month at Disney World? Contact me today to start planning your next trip! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Brand New Exclusive Into the Inklands Lorcana Card Reveal

By

Marc Valentine

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February 8, 2024

Brand New Exclusive Into the Inklands Lorcana Card Reveal

Can you feel the love tonight? We are certainly loving all of the new cards from the upcoming “Into the Inklands” expansion. The Disney Lorcana TCG set Into the Inklands will release on February 23, 2024 at local game stores and Disney Parks, and then more broadly on March 8, 2024 at mass retailers and on shopDisney.

We here at Chip and Company have the honor of revealing a brand new card from the upcoming set exclusively. We are proud to present Nala: Fierce Friend. This brand new Steel Card is going to offer a wonderful new option – inkable and can be played for three ink.

Here’s what we love about our new fierce friend. She quests for two lore, which is always a huge bonus- and with four willpower, Nala has a little staying power. Her strength isn’t huge at 2, but questing for two – Nala will have to be dealt with or she’ll wind up racking up a considerable amount of lore if not addressed.

Without any abilities, Nala is a solid vanilla option when building out a deck and might have synergies with other Lion King cards as Lorcana expands in the future. Keep an eye out for more upcoming cards in “Into the Inklands” as we gear up for an exciting release on February 23rd.

Into the Inklands will add new cards to the fray – introducing Location cards to encourage interaction between characters and help players add additional Lore automatically at the beginning of each turn. Into the Inklands will offer exciting new characters – with DuckTales, Talespin, and Treasure Planet joining the already robust roster of Disney characters.

Want to learn more about Lorcana, check out our interview with the game’s creator Ryan Miller on our podcast network. Stay tuned for more updates on “Into the Inklands” and other exciting products from the team at Ravensburger. Find your local retailer at the website and good luck with your pulls.

Disney Announces New Villain Inspired Line of Fairy Tale Wedding Dresses

By

Sara

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February 8, 2024

Disney Announces New Villain Inspired Line of Fairy Tale Wedding Dresses

Disney has announced a new line of wedding dresses as part of the 2024 Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings collection from Allure Bridals. These aren’t your mother’s Fairy Tale wedding dresses though. These are villains themed!

Blending sophisticated style and touches of whimsy, these new dresses are inspired by Disney’s Ursula, Maleficent, the evil Queen and Jafar.

The new dresses are as versatile as they are romantic, each evoking themes from beloved Disney stories and highlighting iconic details and colorful accents from each of the Disney Villains’ character’s looks. All four styles are available now and come in either a black or ivory colorway, starting at $2,000.

The gown inspired by Disney’s Ursula features a mermaid silhouette adorned with tonal sparkle beadwork on the bodice. Emulating Disney’s Ursula’s dramatic flair, the gown is available in ivory or black, with detachable sheer sleeves that boast ruffled detailing at the cuffs.

Embodying the essence of Disney’s Maleficent, brides can opt for a fitted sheath gown in black and green. The gown is embellished with shimmering green velvet and delicate lace appliques, layered over black organza. Alternatively, the ivory version offers chiffon lace accents for a softer touch.

Inspired by the Disney Villain from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” the evil Queen-inspired gown is adorned with linear lace, 3D floral embellishments, beads, and sequins delicately scattered over tulle. The sheath silhouette features a sweetheart neckline leading into a peaked bodice, complemented by eye-catching embroidery. Available in black, ivory, or gold, the gown is completed with a wrapped ruffle shawl for added elegance.

Befitting a grand vizier of Agrabah, the gown inspired by Disney’s Jafar is offered in either a subtle ivory or a bold black. It features a plunging neckline reminiscent of Disney’s Jafar’s notable collar, accentuated by a satin collar of its own. Adding a touch of sophistication, the bodice is tailored with a nod to menswear and paired with lightly puffed full-length sleeves with buttoned cuffs.

2024 Disney Princess-inspired Gown Collection

The 2024 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings collection also includes gowns inspired by Disney Princess characters – Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Rapunzel, Snow White and Tiana. Each dress evokes the spirit of its namesake with a blend of elegance and fun.

The 18 gowns, two for each princess character, are adorned with countless details and feature innovative fabrics, including a signature sparkle tulle on a Jasmine-inspired gown and a laser-cut whimsical lace design on soft satin to adorn a Rapunzel-inspired style. A Disney Cinderella-inspired ballgown offers a unique platinum colorway, with metallic-backed Chantilly lace and unique beaded lace appliques. For those looking to capture the spirit of the Jazz Age, the Disney Tiana-inspired look emphasizes a glamorous style, shimmering with thousands of beads and sequins.

Disney and Allure Bridals launched their first sophisticated bridal line in 2020, offering stunning, on-trend gowns that showcase the style and spirit of beloved Disney Princess characters. Four years later, Allure Bridals offers options that can transform a bride’s look, such as the detachable overskirts available on a selection of gowns. In addition, the Disney Aurora and Tiana gowns both feature detachable sleeves for a chic, transitional option from aisle to reception. With exquisite details such as ethereal puff sleeves and dreamy accessories like custom veils and delicate tulle flowers, this new Disney collection offers many style options for brides.

The Disney Princess inspired bridal gowns are available in sizes 0 to 30, starting at $1,799, and are available to purchase at all authorized Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection retailers.

What do you think of the new villains inspired wedding dresses?

Ready to plan your Disney wedding and/or honeymoon? 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.

Peach Punch Minnie Ears Spotted At Disney Springs!

By

Ana Leal

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February 8, 2024

Peach Punch Minnie Ears Spotted At Disney Springs!

Get ready to sparkle and look timeless with these Peach Punch Minnie Ears available at Disney Springs, as well as, online at shopDisney for $34.99.

This headband features padded simulated leather ears in a metallic peach color with a sparkly cooper sequined bow. Very cute!

You can take a closer look at this ear headband in our Instagram post:

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Walt Disney World Icons Baseball Jersey Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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February 8, 2024

Walt Disney World Icons Baseball Jersey Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

Represent your love for the most magical place on Earth with this Walt Disney World Icons Baseball Jersey we found at Magic Kingdom! You can also get it online at shopDisney for $59.99.

This fun jersey features a light blue color with white stripes, the Walt Disney World logo on the button front and a patch with the EST. 1971 and Disney World icons on the front hem. Turn it around and you will find EST. 71 The Most Magical Place on Earth text across the back with Cinderella Castle, Spaceship Earth, Tower of Terror and Tree of Life icons underneath.

Take a closer look at this fun jersey in our Instagram post:

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

New Minnie Mouse Floral Ear Headband Spotted At Disney Springs!

By

Ana Leal

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February 8, 2024

New Minnie Mouse Floral Ear Headband Spotted At Disney Springs!

Fall in love with this enchanting Minnie Mouse Floral Ear Headband available at Disney Springs! Is perfect for Valentine’s Day and this upcoming Spring season plus is super cute.

The headband features pink padded ears with red and silver flower appliques in different sizes plus a red sequined bow for some extra shimmer!

You can take a closer look at these ears in our Instagram post:

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Reopening Date Announced for Breakfast and Dinner at 1900 Park Fare in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

By

Chip

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February 8, 2024

Reopening Date Announced for Breakfast and Dinner at 1900 Park Fare in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

Starting April 10th, the enchanting 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is set to reopen its doors, inviting guests to indulge in a delightful dining experience. Reservations for this eagerly anticipated reopening can be secured starting March 5th on DisneyWorld.com.

The restaurant will welcome back cherished favorites like the delectable strawberry shortcake while introducing an array of new menu offerings crafted by our culinary maestros. A nostalgic touch awaits guests as they encounter Big Bertha, a timeless antique organ that has graced the resort since 1988, proudly showcased as the centerpiece in the main dining room.

Supercalifragilistic Breakfast

Join favorite Disney Friends for this fabulously festive, all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast buffet! “Popp in” for custom-made omelets, fluffy mini pancakes, Mickey-shaped waffles, carved ham and more.

Guests may meet such Disney Characters as:

Mary Poppins
Alice in Wonderland
The Mad Hatter
Tigger
Winnie the Pooh

Maintaining its signature carousel theme, the restaurant will feature captivating elements, including an impressive new mural (above) serving as the focal point at the entrance, ensuring that the essence of 1900 Park Fare remains a magical and immersive experience for all guests.

The artistic touches continue throughout the main dining room, where you’ll also find twelve new portraits created exclusively for the restaurant by Disney artists. Each one, inspired by the impressionist art style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, features a different Disney character as they hope, dream, and wish upon a star (or even a magic lamp or a wishing well).

Because meals are best enjoyed alongside friends, a few familiar faces will stop by throughout breakfast and dinner — some for the first time at this location! In this refreshed character dining experience, you’ll be joined by Aladdin in his Prince Ali look, Cinderella, Mirabel and Tiana in her new look for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure as they celebrate the power of a wish.

Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner

Enjoy an enchanting buffet dinner as the honored Guest of Cinderella and Prince Charming!

The Princess storybook friends join in the festivities as you have a ball dining on delectable seafood, salad, pasta, and beef specialties. The culinary selections are representative of several “kingdoms” from around the globe and include such kid-friendly fare as chicken, cheese pizza and macaroni and cheese.

Character appearances and entertainment are subject to change.

Reservations for 1900 Park Fare open on March 5 at DisneyWorld.com, so mark your calendars! While you’re there, explore other ways the resort has been receiving some grand touches that build upon its Victorian elegance with additional storybook charm. While staying in one of the newly refurbished guest rooms, you can also dine underneath the lovely London sky at Cítricos, inspired by “Mary Poppins Returns” or enjoy some shimmering sips at Enchanted Rose Lounge, inspired by “Beauty and the Beast.” Recently refreshed spaces at Narcoossee’s and Victoria & Albert’s, the culinary crown jewel of Walt Disney World Resort, provide even more ways to be our guests and enjoy all that Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has to offer.

Concert Lineup & More Announced for 2024 Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival

By

Chris B

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February 8, 2024

Get ready for a world of flavors and tunes at the annual Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival! This year’s festival promises a unique blend of delicious foods, dynamic drinks, and electrifying concerts that complement the park’s thrilling roller coaster adventures. Starting this March, guests can embark on a culinary journey, savoring mouthwatering eats and sips before diving into their new favorite brew or cocktail.

The 2024 festival is set to dazzle guests over 11 weekends with an incredible lineup of 22 chart-topping acts. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the artists set to perform:

Goo Goo Dolls – March 9
Starship featuring Mickey Thomas – March 10
Sister Hazel – March 17
Taking Back Sunday – March 23
Owl City – April 6
Grupo Niche – April 7
Hoobastank – April 14
Michael Ray – April 20
Gavin DeGraw – April 21
Andy Grammer – April 27
Chris Lane – April 28
Boys Like Girls – May 4
38 Special – May 5

The artists for concerts on March 16, March 24, March 30, March 31, May 11, May 12, May 18, and May 19, have not yet been announced.

For those looking to elevate their festival experience, the Food & Wine Festival VIP Seating Package is available. Starting at $54.99, this package offers the best seats for the concerts, one beverage certificate, and access to a private bar and entrance to the seating area. It’s important to note that park admission is required and not included in this package. Pass Members can enjoy up to 10% off on this VIP experience.

The food lineup is yet to be announced, but guests can anticipate a delightful array of dishes to pair with an assortment of wines, craft brews, and cocktails. Whether you’re returning to taste old favorites or excited to try new culinary creations, the festival offers endless combinations to delight your taste buds.

Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival. With a mix of flavors and sounds to suit all tastes, this festival is the perfect way to celebrate spring!

Try Cupid Love Potion at Planet Hollywood at Disney Springs

By

Chris B

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February 8, 2024

If you’re looking for something special to do with your sweetheart, Planet Hollywood at Disney Springs has just the thing. They’re serving up a super fun drink called Cupid’s Love Potion, and it’s only around for a short time!

You can check out this limited-time drink from Sunday, February 11th, to Sunday, February 18th. The cocktail features a mix of vodka, cranberry, grapefruit, pineapple, and orange juices, all stirred up with some grenadine for extra sweetness. The drink is topped off with cute heart-shaped strawberries, making this the perfect Valentine’s Day drink.

Guests who order this drink also get to keep a cool Planet Hollywood goblet as a souvenir. That way, you can remember your special Valentine’s week date forever! A non-alcoholic version of Cupid’s Love Potion is also available.

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!

Jurassic World VelociCoaster Reopens at Universal Orlando After Unexpected Multi-Day Closure

By

Chris B

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February 8, 2024

We have some amazing news for guests heading to Universal Orlando Resort: VelociCoaster, one of the resort’s most thrilling attractions, is re-opening to guests today. The much-anticipated re-opening comes after an unexpected closure that left adrenaline enthusiasts eagerly waiting for its return.

The VelociCoaster, known for its heart-pounding speeds and breathtaking drops, temporarily halted its operations due to a reported ‘technical issue’ that emerged over the past week. This sudden pause in the ride’s operation sparked a wave of disappointment among visitors and increased wait times in other Islands of Adventure attractions.

Park guests noted testing occurring yesterday. Islands of Adventure opened for Early Park Admission today at 8 am, and Velocicoaster is listed as being open with a 90-minute wait as of 9 am.

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!

Celebrate the Oscars with New Treat at Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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February 8, 2024

As Hollywood gears up to celebrate the Oscars, fans and foodies alike can indulge in a slice of the celebration at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. From February 12th through March 11th, the ABC Commissary is rolling out the red carpet for a special treat that’s sure to capture the spirit of the Oscars.

Just in time for the Academy Awards, the ABC Commissary is introducing the Toffee and Coconut Blondie. This sweet treat features a rich, gooey blend of toffee and toasted coconut, nestled within a soft blondie base. The snack is crowned with a luxurious layer of salted caramel buttercream, and finished with a chocolate ‘Oscars’ accent, adding an elegant nod to the awards ceremony.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate Hollywood’s biggest night with a taste of stardom. Visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios and let the Toffee and Coconut Blondie be your ticket to a deliciously memorable Oscars 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!