Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Closing for Refurbishment in January 2024
Kali River Rapids in Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be closing in January for a refurbishment. The ride typically closes this time of year for its annual refurb.
Kali River Rapids will be closed starting January 8, 2024. There is no set reopening date but the Disney World calendar shows the ride being closed through at least February 10. That’s as far out as the calendar goes.
Last year the ride was closed for almost 2 months and the year before it was closed for just over 2 months.
In Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Asia section, Kali River Rapids offers an exhilarating whitewater experience, ensuring guests a drenching adventure. The ride features vibrant vegetation, a swift journey through rapids, and a thrilling 20-foot drop.
Want to experience Kali River Rapids before it closes? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, has shared a holiday greeting with D23 members. Members have been receiving an email with the holiday message.
We at Disney have so much to be grateful for this year, especially dedicated fans like you. As D23 Members, we know how deeply you care about what we create, and we’re so fortunate to have you with us on this journey. Your passion and enthusiasm are contagious, and you inspire us to continue raising the bar every day.
This year we were thrilled to have you join us in celebrating Disney’s 100th anniversary. As this momentous year in our company’s history draws to a close, I can say with confidence that we have so much more to look forward to as we build on a century of creative excellence and continue to entertain, delight, and inspire fans like you.
On behalf of all of us at The Walt Disney Company, I want to wish you a wonderful holiday season and a very happy and prosperous New Year.
Sincerely,
Bob Iger”
Did you receive this holiday email?
If you’d like to plan your next Disney trip, contact me today! I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.
Baking will be extra fun and sweet when using this Winnie the Pooh rolling pin made of beech wood measuring 9” in length along with handles and 1.6” in diameter.
Each rolling pin is made with high accuracy using a laser and is protected by linseed oil to retain its fabulous look for a long time. They are safe in contact with food, of course.
Peach Punch Walt Disney World Spirit Jersey Now At shopDisney!
A new Peach Punch Walt Disney World Spirit Jersey just arrived to shopDisney for $79.99! This is a great option to start adding the color peach to your wardrobe, the Pantone color of 2024, plus who doesn’t love a comfy spirit jersey?
This one features a peach color with “pixie dust” all around! The front has a little retro Mickey Mouse Disney World logo and the back features the Walt Disney World logo with Cinderella Castle and fireworks in the middle, so cute!
The bow is available in blush pink and black and features pearl details and hidden Mickeys! This is the perfect accessory for a girly hairstyle with a touch of Disney magic.
New Disney100 Decades Jessie Ear Headband Spotted At Epcot!
We found the Disney100 Decades Jessie Ear Headband at Epcot! This is part of the Disney100 Decades 2010’s Collection and inspired in Jessie from Toy Story 3.
The headband features embroidered yoke filigree on the front of the ears and cowhide print fabric on the back of the ears and headband. It also has a rope like bow with an antiqued metal buckle charm and the Disney100 Decades logo platinum plaque on the side.
You can take a closer look at it in our Instagram post!
Disney+ Unwraps Teaser for “Doctor Who” Christmas Special: “The Church on Ruby Road”
The holiday season is about to get a whole lot more thrilling as Disney+ unveils a sneak peek into the highly-anticipated “Doctor Who” Christmas Special, titled “The Church on Ruby Road.” Fans can mark their calendars for the festive treat, set to premiere on Disney+ on December 25th at 9:55 a.m. PT / 12:55 p.m. ET.
In this yuletide adventure, Ncuti Gatwa steps into the iconic role of The Fifteenth Doctor, joined by Millie Gibson as his spirited new companion, Ruby Sunday. The ensemble cast features familiar faces, including Davina McCall as herself, Michelle Greenidge as Carla Sunday, Angela Wynter as Cherry Sunday, and Anita Dobson as Mrs. Flood.
The storyline takes us back to a snowy Christmas Eve long ago when a baby was abandoned. Fast forward to the present day, where Ruby Sunday crosses paths with the Doctor, unraveling a tale involving stolen babies, mischievous goblins, and the potential revelation of her mysterious birth.
To add to the excitement, Gatwa and Gibson recently illuminated the London Eye in vibrant colors inspired by the iconic “Doctor Who” Time Vortex, creating a visual spectacle to celebrate the upcoming premiere.
As a special treat for fans, a blue carpet world premiere screening of the Christmas Special was held at the British Film Institute, Southbank, featuring a Q&A session with Gatwa, Gibson, and showrunner Russell T Davies.
Picture Shows: Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson at the the London EyePicture Shows: Joel Collins, Anita Dobson, Millie Gibson, Ncuti Gatwa , Michelle Greenidge, Angela Wynter, Russell T Davies, Phil Collinson at the the London EyePicture Shows: The London Eye
“Doctor Who,” produced by Bad Wolf with BBC Studios for BBC and Disney Branded Television, boasts a stellar lineup of executive producers, including Russell T Davies (writer and showrunner), Jane Tranter, Julie Gardner, Joel Collins, and Phil Collinson.
For those eager to dive into more “Doctor Who” adventures, the 60th Anniversary Specials, namely “The Star Beast,” “Wild Blue Yonder,” and “The Giggle,” are already streaming on Disney+. Meanwhile, new episodes of “Doctor Who” will continue to captivate audiences worldwide on Disney+ (outside of the UK and Ireland).
Prepare for a time-traveling holiday escapade that promises thrills, mysteries, and the magic of “Doctor Who” on Disney+ this Christmas.
Dick Clark’s New Years Rockin’Eve 2024 Lineup Announced
ABC and Dick Clark Productions have revealed the star-studded lineup for “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024,” the highly anticipated New Year’s Eve extravaganza. Renowned Emmy® Award-winning television personality Jeannie Mai will host the Hollywood festivities, featuring an impressive array of chart-topping artists including Aqua, Doechii, Ellie Goulding, Green Day, Janelle Monáe, Loud Luxury x Two Friends with Bebe Rexha, Ludacris, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Paul Russell, Reneé Rapp with Coco Jones, and Thirty Seconds to Mars.
The Danish dance-pop ensemble Aqua is gearing up for a spectacular performance, featuring their iconic hits “Barbie Girl” and “Doctor Jones” from the triple-platinum 1997 album “Aquarium.” Recognized as the Rising Star at this year’s Billboard Women in Music, the multi-award-nominated rapper/singer Doechii, boasting an impressive 6.5 billion global streams, is set to grace the stage. She will deliver a captivating performance featuring her hits “What It Is” and “Persuasive.”
Celebrating a decade since her first No. 1 hit single “Burn,” the multi-award-winning pop singer Ellie Goulding will commemorate the milestone with a three-song performance. The set will feature her GRAMMY-nominated single “Miracle” and “Midnight Dreams” from her latest album, “Higher Than Heaven.”
Green Day, one of the biggest bands of all time, will electrify the stage as they ring in the New Year with three career-spanning sets. The six-time Billboard Music Awards and five-time GRAMMY winners will deliver energetic renditions of “Basket Case” and “Welcome to Paradise” from their breakout album “Dookie,” which celebrates its 30th anniversary next year.
In its 52nd year, the broadcast commemorates the pinnacle of the year’s musical achievements with over five and a half hours of vibrant performances, beloved American personalities, and a glimpse into New Year’s celebrations across the globe. Tune in to catch the excitement on Sunday, December 31, as “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024” goes live on ABC at 8:00 p.m. EST.
The Boy And The Heron Becomes First Animated Film To Top The U.S. Box Office Since The Princess And The Frog
Studio Ghibli’s film, “The Boy and the Heron,” hit over 2,200 U.S. theaters from GKIDS and achieved an impressive debut, grossing $12.97 million, inclusive of Thursday previews. The three-day total for the opening weekend (Friday-Sunday) reached $10.4 million, marking the most substantial U.S. debut for both the director and the studio.
This film has now become GKIDS’ top-grossing release, surpassing the previous record-holder, Makoto Shinkai’s “Weathering with You,” which earned $7.8 million during its 2020 release in 486 theaters under the same distributor. This is the first time that a 2D animated film has topped the box office since Disney’s Princess and the Frog back in 2009.
With a box office revenue of $12.97 million, “The Boy and the Heron” now ranks as the 12th highest-grossing anime title in U.S. history, surpassing “One Piece Film: Red” at $12.78 million. Additionally, the film is poised to claim the title of Miyazaki’s highest-grossing work in the region. As of now, “Ponyo” holds that distinction, having earned $15.1 million throughout its entire theatrical run in 2009.
In 2023, “The Boy and the Heron” became the fourth animated film to lead the U.S. box office, following “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” and “PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie.”
Dreamworks’ “Trolls Band Together” and Disney’s “Wish” both secured spots in the top five at the domestic box office over the weekend. Experiencing a modest decline of only 20.8% from the previous week, “Trolls” contributed an additional $6.2 million, securing the fourth position and bringing its domestic total to $83 million. Meanwhile, “Wish” garnered $5.3 million during the weekend, securing the fifth spot and pushing its three-week domestic total to $49.4 million.
Rounding out the top 5 were “Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” and “Godzilla Minus One.” What movie are you looking forward to this Holiday season? Will you be heading out to theaters to catch Boy and the Heron or another film? Let us know your thoughts in a comment.
New Phantom Manor Figure Coming to Disneyland Paris from Artists Kevin & Jody
Unlocking the magic of limited-edition collectibles, Disneyland Paris is set to enchant fans with a new exclusive figurine created by renowned artists Kevin & Jody. This exquisite piece, a reproduction of the enigmatic Mayor of Phantom Manor, is poised to make its debut on December 16.
Limited to just 1000 copies, this figurine promises to be a coveted treasure for collectors and Disney enthusiasts alike. Priced at 129€, each piece exudes a sense of exclusivity, ensuring its place as a cherished addition to any Disney memorabilia collection.
To maintain the allure of its exclusivity, there is a purchase limit of 2 pieces per transaction, emphasizing the uniqueness of each acquisition.
To embark on this enchanting journey and secure your piece of Disney magic, the figurine will be available at select shops, including Thunder Mesa Mercantile Building, Harrington’s Fine China & Porcelains, and The Disney Gallery in Disney Village.
Don’t miss your chance to bring a touch of Phantom Manor mystique into your world with this limited-edition masterpiece from the imaginative minds of Kevin & Jody.
Medals Revealed for runDisney 2024 Springtime Surprise Weekend
The runDisney 2024 Springtime Surprise Weekend is coming up at Walt Disney World April 18-21, 2024! Disney shared a look at the race finisher medals that are coming to the event. Take a look!
Take flight for the first event of the race weekend with the Neverland 5K! Join favorite characters from Disney Animation’s “Peter Pan” for a magical 3.1-mile run that will take you toward the “second star to the right and straight on ’til morning” to find the finish line and this beautiful finisher medal.
Adventure is out There 10K
The finish line must be explored as you set out on an exhilarating 6.2-mile race inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Up” for the Adventure Is Out There 10K. Encounter some beloved characters like Russell, Dug, Carl, and even Kevin as you earn this finisher medal.
Hakuna Matata 10-Miler
It’s the ‘mane’ event for the weekend – the Hakuna Matata 10-Miler, an epic running journey inspired by Disney Animation’s “The Lion King.” Join Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa on this roaring run, where the spirit of the Circle of Life will guide you to the finish line to pick up this finisher medal.
Stitch’s ’Ohana Challenge
Up for an out-of-this-world challenge? Say aloha to Stitch’s ‘Ohana Challenge, inspired by Disney Animation’s “Lilo & Stitch,” where completing all the runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend races—5K, 10K, and 10-Miler—earns you not just bragging rights, but this special finisher medal.
For even more event weekend adventure, start things off with a little pre-race stretch at runDisney Springtime Surprise Yoga, returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s a star-studded early morning that’s perfect for balancing your mind, body and spirit ahead of a run-filled weekend. Limited spots remain so head to runDisney.com to reserve your mat.
End your race weekend with a SPLASH and dive into an evening of celebration and thrills during the all-new runDisney Springtime Surprise Splash at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. After a weekend full of magical miles, enjoy favorite water attractions (at night!) with shorter wait times, delicious sips and eats and more – a splashing way to end your race weekend!
Did you know you can also join the runDisney Springtime Surprise fun, virtually? Bring the magic home and run on a course of your choosing during the Virtual 2024 runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend. From 3.1 to 19.3 miles, explore one-of-a-kind race options for a runDisney adventure, wherever you are!
Will you be participating in the 2024 runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend?
Ready to plan your next visit to Walt Disney World? Contact me today! I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
Full List of New Zootopia Food & Beverage Coming to Shanghai Disneyland
The new Zootopia land is opening soon in Shanghai Disneyland! Today Disney shared a look at the Zootopia food and beverages that are coming to the new area.
When this immersive land opens in just a few short weeks, let your taste buds take a walk on the wild side with eats and sips that are staples among the residents of this metropolis at these must-try snack-spots – Jumbeaux’s Cafe and Zootopia Market. At these brand-new locations, and various ones throughout the resort, hungry guests will find a variety of treats that are (almost) too cute to eat. From the Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream Cone to the adorably delicious Lemming Marshmallow, and the classic Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle, there’s no shortage of items sure to leave you hopping with joy (and flavor).
Chocolate Marshmallow & Mini Chocolate Bar (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
The Big Donut: Chocolate donut (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
The Mini Big Donut: Chocolate donut (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Disney Zootopia Blueberry Pie: Handmade shortbread crust served with a sweet and sour blueberry sauce (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Blueberry Milkshake: Ice cream and blueberry sauce topped with a Clawhauser chocolate piece
Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream Sundae with Disney Zootopia Elephant Ice Cream Bowl: Ginger-flavored ice cream on soft-chocolate cake and topped with crunch cereal pieces
Judy’s Waffle with Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream
Ginger-Flavored Ice Cream Cone: Carrot-shaped cone with ginger-flavored ice cream topped with a Judy Hopps chocolate piece (Also available at Il Paperino)
Lemming Marshmallow (Also available at Cookie Ann Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Frittata Sandwich: Soft frittata filled with potatoes, carrots, and mozzarella cheese cushioned between two carrot-shaped buns (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
Hot Chocolate with Judy Hopps Hot Beverage Cup (Also in January at available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)
Hot Chocolate with Nick Wilde Hot Beverage Cup (Also available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)
White Peach Waxberry-Flavored Sparkling Special Drink with Nick Souvenir Cup (Also available at all quick-service restaurants)
Zootopia Market
Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle: Hawthorn berry-flavored popsicle (Also available at Ballet Café, Sunnyside Market, and outdoor vending carts)
Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle with Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle Ice Mold (Also available at Ballet Café, Sunnyside Market, and outdoor vending carts)
Carrot-Shaped Lollipop (Also available at Cookie Ann Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Disney Zootopia Pawpsicle Lollipop (Also available at Cookie Ann Bakery Café, Sunnyside Market, and Ballet Café)
Gazelle Cotton Candy
Disney Zootopia Police Officer Badge Chocolate Bar (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café, Ballet Café, Sunnyside Market, Mickey & Pals Market Café, Barbossa’s Bounty, and Pinocchio Village Kitchen)
Corn-Flavored Popcorn
Corn-Flavored Popcorn with Hopps Family Farm Popcorn Bucket (Also available at outdoor vending carts)
Hopps Family Farm Popcorn Bucket (Also available at outdoor vending carts)
Zootopia Bottle Cap and Clip (Also available throughout the resort)
Chocolate Marshmallow & Mini Chocolate Bar (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
Judy’s Pineapple Cheesecake & Nick’s Lemon Cheesecake (Also available at Mickey & Pals Market Café, Barbossa’s Bounty, and Pinocchio Village Kitchen)
Frittata Sandwich: Soft frittata filled with potatoes, carrots, and mozzarella cheese cushioned between two carrot-shaped buns (Also available at CookieAnn Bakery Café)
Hot Chocolate with Judy Hopps Hot Beverage Cup (Also in January at available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)
Hot Chocolate with Nick Wilde Hot Beverage Cup (Also available at kiosk locations and Il Paperino)
Available at Select Quick-Service Restaurants
Tuna and Vegetable with Steamed Rice with Judy Snack Box
Are you looking forward to visiting the new Zootopia land in Shanghai Disneyland?
If you’d like to plan your next Disney vacation, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.
