San Fransokyo Square opened in Disney California Adventure on August 31. The area features a new character greeting opportunity, diverse food and beverages, unique shopping and more inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Big Hero 6.”
Later this month, a new limited-time nighttime entertainment offering “The Heartbeat of New Orleans – A Living Mural” will enchant Disneyland Park guests with a jazz score and projections that tell a short, whimsical tale of a mischievous little frog. Along with the art installation, Queenie and the Jambalaya Jazz Band will enhance the atmosphere on the Rivers of America on select evenings this fall, and nightly during the holiday season.
And lastly, the Adventureland Treehouse inspired by Walt Disney’s Swiss Family Robinson will be opening this fall! The treehouse has been under construction for quite some time so we can’t wait to journey up wood rope stairways and traverse its branches.
Ready to plan your next Disneyland trip? 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.
The new Tiana’s Palace restaurant opened in Disneyland today! The restaurant is a quick-service spot offering New Orleans-inspired dishes for lunch and dinner.
Tiana’s Palace took over the previous French Market restaurant. The new restaurant is not a character dining location but guests might spot Tiana in New Orleans Square throughout the day.
At Tiana’s Palace, guests will sit at yellow tabletops, on warm vanilla-colored chairs with green seats, in the shade of yellow and green umbrellas. An emerald green wrought iron railing and awnings dyed in yellow and green, can be seen below the lit marque. They are reminiscent of Tiana’s beautiful formal ball gown.
Inside the restaurant guests will see a a large mural of the bayou. Lilies can also be seen in multiple depictions throughout, like light fixtures and plaques. Frog porcelains, cookbooks Tiana has collected, and her father’s favorite gumbo spoon are also proudly on display.
The menu at Tiana’s Palace is also inspired by New Orleans cuisine. Some items you’ll want to try include:
House-filled beignet – featuring lemon ice box pie filling, topped with lemon glaze
7 Greens Gumbo (plant-based) – white beans, okra, yams, sweet potatoes and heirloom rice
Gulf shrimp and grits – simmered in Creole sauce with cheesy grits
Guests do not need a reservation to dine at Tiana’s Palace as it is a quick service location. It’s also available for Mobile Order on the Disneyland app.
Are you looking forward to dining at Tiana’s Palace during your next visit to Disneyland?
Ready to plan your next Disneyland trip? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana will welcome adventurers in EPCOT soon. Guests can explore a serene walking trail that entertains, inspires and educates as they engage with water in magical ways like Moana did with the ocean. The new attraction is located in the World Nature neighborhood of EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Amy Smith, Photographer)
(Amy Smith, Photographer)
Disney Vacation Club Member Preview of Journey of Water Inspired by Moana
Disney Vacation Club Members have yet another reason to celebrate as Disney announces an exclusive sneak peek of “Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana,” an enchanting attraction inspired by the beloved film “Moana.” This special preview follows a recent announcement of a similar opportunity for Annual Passholders, making it clear that Disney is eager to offer its most dedicated guests an early glimpse into the magic.
Here is the official DVC Member Preview for Journey of Water Inspired by Moana:
Disney Vacation Club Member Preview: Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana When: September 24 – 29 & October 1 – 4, 2023 Time: From the park open through 5:00 p.m. Where: Check-in will take place at the Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana entrance, across from the Coral Reef Restaurant in World Nature. Who: Eligible Members with a valid EPCOT® theme park reservation and valid admission to EPCOT® on a preview event date
The “Journey of Water” attraction, set to immerse visitors in the vibrant world of “Moana,” promises to be an experience like no other. Guests will have the chance to interact with the living water featured in the film, creating a deeply immersive and captivating adventure.
While Disney has unveiled these exciting previews for Vacation Club Members and Annual Passholders, it’s important to note that no official opening date for “Journey of Water” has been confirmed yet. This only adds to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the attraction, leaving fans and members eagerly awaiting the big reveal.
These exclusive previews are a testament to Disney’s commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for its most loyal guests. By offering early access to such a highly anticipated attraction, Disney continues to strengthen the special bond between the park and its dedicated members and pass holders.
Stay tuned for more details and official opening dates, and mark your calendars for this unforgettable journey into the heart of “Moana’s” world. Disney’s “Journey of Water” is sure to make waves in the hearts of fans and guests alike.
New Peter Pan Dooney And Bourke Collection Now At Walt Disney World!
We just spotted the Peter Pan Dooney And Bourke Collection at Walt Disney World! The bags are beautiful with a subtle blue color and brown details and of course artwork featuring character from the 1953 Disney animated classic.
The tote bag is a must have if you love to always be prepared and carry everything you could possibly need. It features the lost boys on one side and Peter Pan, Wendy and the Darling boys on the opposite side.
If you prefer a more practical bag, this drawstring bag is perfect for you! It features an all over pattern of the Jolly Roger, Peter Pan, Wendy, the Darling boys and Neverland.
New Halloween Merch Essentials Available Now At Disney Parks And shopDisney!
With the spooky season upon us, these Halloween Merch Essentials are a must for any Disney fan! We have been spoiled with new released almost every week at Walt Disney World, Disneyland and of course, shopDisney!
These collection are inspired in Halloween classics like Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas and iconic attractions and characters like The Haunted Mansion and Mickey & Minnie, take a look:
Are you attending Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure? Then you won’t want to miss this merchandise featuring a glow in the dark Oogie Boogie Ear Headband with dice as ears, glow in the dark Oogie Boogie Bash Spirit Jersey plus Loungefly backpack and collectible pin!
Disneyland will also have a Minnie Mouse Hocus Pocus Halloween Dress Up Sipper and glow Zero 30th Anniversary Bucket! Both must haves in your collection.
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Over at Walt Disney World, you can attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party where you can find super fun merchandise exclusive to the party like a must have Mickey’s Not So Scary Spirit Jersey or a Tervis Tumbler to carry your witch’s brew or a mug to have your favorite drink at home!
There are also t-shirts for both adults and kids featuring a Bat Mickey Mouse and party logo. Perfect to match with the whole family.
With fall practically upon us, you will love to start your morning with a warm cup of coffee from the Disney Villains Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company! You can even carry your favorite brew in the Hades Stainless Steel Canteen from Corkcicle.
For fashionistas, you can complete your look with the boo-tiful Pandora charms like the Hatbox Ghost, Mickey Mouse Pumpkin, Mickey and Minnie in a pumpkin or Zero from the Nightmare Before Christmas!
Believe and soar with Disney’s Dumbo Scentsy Collection
Believe and soar with Disney’s Dumbo!
We recently announced that Scentsy will become the presenting sponsor of Dumbo the Flying Elephant in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World® Resort and an all-new “search and sniff” experience in the park with fragrances provided by Scentsy, called “Smellephants on Parade!” But more on that to come!
In the spirit of Dumbo and reaching new heights, and to commemorate this exciting collaboration, prepare to be amazed! A thrilling new fragrance and high-flying warmer are headed your way.
The limited-edition, numbered collectible Walt Disney World: Dumbo the Flying Elephant – Scentsy Warmer is a nostalgic piece that even features a motor that makes the warmer spin, just like the cherished Disney attraction!
It pairs perfectly with the new Dumbo: Soar High Through the Sky fragrance, available as a Scentsy Brick. And since Dumbo is one of our most-requested characters, we’re also bringing back our Dumbo – Scentsy Buddy and his popular fragrance, Dumbo: Circus Parade.
The collection will be available starting Oct. 9th! Here are the options for this exciting collection
New! Walt Disney World: Dumbo the Flying Elephant − Scentsy Warmer, $125
New! Dumbo: Soar High Through the Sky − Scentsy Brick, $26
Disney Dumbo − Scentsy Buddy + Dumbo: Circus Parade – Scent Pak, $40
Dumbo: Circus Parade – Scent Pak, $7.50
Dumbo: Circus Parade – Scentsy Bar, $6.50
Dumbo: Soar High Through the Sky will only be available as a Scentsy Brick, but you can get it as a Scentsy Bar if you add it to a Scentsy Club subscription!
Disney Villains Collection will be available starting at 10 a.m. PT on September 18th. You can get this fun Dumbo Collection online or from your favorite Scentsy Consultant.
New Disney World Annual Passholder Magnet Coming Soon
Excitement is brewing among Disney World’s annual passholders as a sneak peek of the upcoming annual passholder magnet has been revealed. The teaser video, presented in classic black and white, evokes a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of early Disney animation.
While the exact character featured on the magnet remains a mystery (we think it will be Steamboat Willie), the vintage aesthetic and Disney’s rich history suggest something special is in store. Disney’s tradition of offering unique and highly sought-after passholder exclusives continues, further strengthening the bond between the park and its dedicated passholders.
As anticipation builds for the magnet’s release, Disney World once again demonstrates its commitment to providing enchanting experiences and cherished collectibles for its loyal guests. Stay tuned as Disney unveils more details about this exciting addition, promising to add a touch of Disney magic to passholders’ everyday lives.
Check out the video below and tell us what you think.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana will welcome adventurers in EPCOT soon. Guests can explore a serene walking trail that entertains, inspires and educates as they engage with water in magical ways like Moana did with the ocean. The new attraction is located in the World Nature neighborhood of EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Amy Smith, Photographer)
(Amy Smith, Photographer)
Disney World Annual Passholder Preview of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana
Disney World is hosting an Annual Passholder Preview of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana ahead of the official opening this fall.
Be among the first to explore the newest experience at EPCOT!
Annual Passholders can attend a special preview for Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana—a lush exploration trail where you can connect with water and discover its magical personality. As you explore and play, you’ll learn about water’s natural cycle from the skies to the seas and back again.
Preview Dates Passholder previews will take place at EPCOT from park open to park close on the following dates:
September 24 to September 29, 2023
October 1 to October 4, 2023
EPCOT Reservation Required To participate in this preview experience, Passholders must have a theme park reservation for EPCOT on the day of the preview. Please note that:
If your theme park reservation is for a different theme park (and not for EPCOT), then you will not be eligible to participate in a preview that day.
If you enter EPCOT without a theme park reservation after 2:00 PM, then you will not be eligible to participate in a preview that day.
(Amy Smith, Photographer)
Check-In Details To check-in for this preview, please visit the entrance to Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana—located across from Coral Reef Restaurant.
Important Information
Registration is not required to attend this preview. However, you must have a theme park reservation for EPCOT on the day of the preview.
A standby queue will be in place for this experience; a virtual queue will not be available.
An eligible, activated Annual Pass is required to attend this preview. You must show your Annual Pass card, Disney MagicMobile pass, MagicBand or MagicBand+—along with valid photo identification—when checking in.
Everyone in your party must be an Annual Passholder to attend this preview experience.
All offerings are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
Back in 2020, Walt Disney Animation Studios Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee announced that Disney was working on bringing two exciting titles to the streaming service. Lee shared that we would see “Moana” and “Tiana” on the steaming service in the future. Over the past three years, Disney has been silent of the development of these projects until earlier this week.
Lee sat down with Ecartelera to discuss Disney’s ‘Wish: The Power of Wishes’, and share what is on the horizon for the studio. When asked if Disney has considered going back to classic films from the Golden Age or Renaissance, Lee responded, “I love that Disney+ allows us to introduce experimentation and freshness while also exploring our legacy.”
Lee added, “Combining celebration and narrative innovation. In that sense we can play more with the Disney+ series. We’re doing the ‘ Moana ‘ series and it’s been a lot of fun, I love it. ‘Tiana’ is a new world for her, a new direction and a new voice. I think it’s a very good platform to start playing with things that have meant a lot to many of us.”
Throughout the interview Lee discussed new technology and animation styles at work in Hollywood. How will Disney use that technology on classics like “Princess and the Frog” and “Moana”? Lee stated, “For me, it is also recognizing that there is no turning back, only moving forward stronger and stronger.”
“How technology has allowed us to maintain the importance of traditional animation through the artists is what excites me the most. There is a balance between the sequels and the original content. There are more ‘Frozen’ and more ‘ Zootropolis ‘ on the way because they invite their stories to grow, the filmmakers want to expand them.”
As of now, we know very little about these projects save for Anika Noni Rose and Auli’i Cravalho returning to reprise their roles as Tiana and Moana respectively. Despite the actors strike halting any voiceover work on these projects, the animation department can continue to move forward as animation has been unaffected somewhat by the SAG/AFTRA work stoppages.
Are you excited to see more from “Moana” and “Tiana”? We’d love to hear your thoughts on these project in a comment.
The Santa Clauses offers first Look at Eric Stonestreet in Season 2
Fans of the Santa Clauses are getting a glimpse of Eric Stonestreet from Season 2. Emmy® Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet (“Modern Family”) stars as Magnus Antas, aka The Mad Santa, in season two of the Disney+ Original Series “The Santa Clauses,” which is set to debut this holiday season.
In the second season, the Calvin family is back in the North Pole as Scott Calvin continues his role as Santa Claus after retirement plans were thwarted when failing to find a worthy successor in season one. Now that Scott and his family have successfully saved Christmas, Scott turns his focus towards training his son Cal to eventually take over the “family business” as Santa Claus.
Season one of “The Santa Clauses,” which debuted Nov. 16, 2022, was a Top 5 most-watched original series on Disney+ by hour streamed during its Season’s Streaming campaign (Nov. 3-Dec. 31)
Disney Legend Tim Allen executive produces and continues to reprise the beloved role of Santa/Scott Calvin. Also starring are Elizabeth Mitchell as Mrs. Claus/Carol, Elizabeth Allen-Dick as Sandra Calvin Claus, Austin Kane as Cal Calvin Claus, Devin Bright as Santa’s elf bestie Noel, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias as Kris “Kringle” Moreno and Eric Stonestreet as Magnus Antas aka The Mad Santa.
Matilda Lawler plays a recurring guest-star role as Santa’s chief of staff, Betty. Additional guest stars include Tracy Morgan as Easter Bunny, Marta Kessler as Olga, a surly, take-no-prisoners gnome who doesn’t understand “feelings” and “empathy” and sidekick to Magnus Antas, aka The Mad Santa, , Liam Kyle as Gary, Isabella Bennett as Edie, Sasha Knight as Crouton, Ruby Jay as Riley, Mia Lynn Bangunan as Pontoon, and Laura San Giacomo as La Befana, the Christmas Witch.
Alongside Allen, award-winning Jack Burditt (“30 Rock,” “Modern Family,” “Frasier,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”) is an executive producer and showrunner. Kevin Hench (“Last Man Standing”), Richard Baker (“Last Man Standing,” “The Santa Clause,” “The Santa Clause 2”) and Rick Messina (“Last Man Standing,” “The Santa Clause,” “The Santa Clause 2”) serve as executive producers along with Jason Winer and Jon Radler for Small Dog Picture Company.
Eric Stonestreet is a versatile and accomplished actor renowned for his outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry. With a career spanning several decades, Stonestreet has firmly established himself as a beloved figure in both television and film. He gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Cameron Tucker in the critically acclaimed TV series “Modern Family,” a role that earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards and showcased his exceptional comedic timing and acting prowess.
Stonestreet’s career extends beyond his iconic “Modern Family” role, as he has also lent his talent to various film and television projects, consistently delivering memorable performances that highlight his comedic versatility as an actor. In The Loft” (2014), Stonestreet played Marty Landry in this thriller film, showcasing his ability to take on more dramatic roles. “The Secret Life of Pets” (2016) Stonestreet provided the voice for Duke, a lovable dog, in this animated film and its sequel, “The Secret Life of Pets 2” (2019).
Are you excited for Season 2 of “The Santa Clauses” with Tim Allen? Let us know your favorite Christmas movie as we get ready for the Holiday Season on Disney+.
Passholders should prepare to choose their fate with the new Dueling Dragons Passholder Exclusive Merchandise at Universal Orlando
We have a new merchandise alert for Universal Orlando Annual Passholders: Dueling Dragons Passholder Exclusive Merchandise is now available at the resort!
Annual Passholders should prepare to ‘Choose Thy Fate” with a new shirt and scented candle, both available ONLY to Universal Orlando Annual Passholders. The shirt features the Dueling Dragons logo, as well as the “Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights 2023” moniker on the front, the words Choose Thy Fate on the back, and the UOAP logo on the sleeve.
The candle features the Dueling Dragons logo on the top and sides of the tin, as well as the UOAP logo.
Dueling Dragons is one of the haunted houses present at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights, with a theme that pays tribute to the Dueling Dragons coaster that was present at Islands of Adventure before the construction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The house asks guests to ‘Choose Thy Fate’ dungeons and dragons style by selecting a path (fire or ice) at the end, resulting in the house having a total of 4 possible endings.
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!
Pixar’s Elemental Coming to Disney+ on September 13th
Disney+ has announced that Ember and Wade, characters from Disney and Pixar’s “Elemental,” will be coming to the streaming platform next week. The original feature film will be available for streaming on Disney+ starting Sept. 13. Alongside the film, viewers can also watch the making-of documentary “Good Chemistry: The Story of Elemental” and Pixar Animation Studios’ short film “Carl’s Date,” which features the beloved talking dog Dug. Be sure to check out a 15-second spot and key art celebrating the upcoming release of “Elemental.”
Additionally, it has been revealed that until September 20, both new and returning customers can subscribe to Disney+ Basic (with ads) for just $1.99 per month for three months by visiting www.disneyplus.com.
Opening in theaters this summer, Disney and Pixar’s “Elemental” is among 2023’s top 10-grossing films worldwide, earning $480 million in the global box office. Set in Element City, where Fire-, Water-, Earth- and Air residents live together, the original feature film introduces Ember (voice of Leah Lewis), whose friendship with a fun and sappy guy named Wade (voice of Mamoudou Athie) challenges her beliefs about the world they live in. Directed by Peter Sohn, produced by Denise Ream, p.g.a., and executive produced by Pete Docter, “Elemental” features a screenplay by John Hoberg & Kat Likkel and Brenda Hsueh with story by Sohn, Hoberg & Likkel and Hsueh.
Pixar director Peter Sohn takes viewers on a humorous personal journey through the inspiration behind Disney and Pixar’s feature film “Elemental.” “Good Chemistry: The Story of Elemental” traces his parents’ voyage from Korea to New York, explores his dad’s former grocery shop in the heart of the Bronx, and delves into his choice of a career in animation, rather than the family business. The documentary is a delightful look at the unexpected influences that led to the making of the comedy-adventure “Elemental.” “Good Chemistry” is directed by Tony Kaplan and produced by Sureena Mann.
Written and directed by Academy Award® nominee and Emmy® Award winner Bob Peterson and produced by Kim Collins, “Carl’s Date” finds Carl reluctantly agreeing to go on a date with a lady friend—but admittedly with no idea how dating works these days. Ever the helpful friend, Dug steps in to calm Carl’s pre-date jitters and offer some tried-and-true tips for making friends—if you’re a dog. The new short, which opened in front of “Elemental” in theaters on June 16, joins an existing collection of shorts, “Dug Days,” that follow the humorous misadventures of the lovable pup with the high-tech collar. “Dug Days” is currently streaming on Disney+.
