Josh D’Amaro, Provides Insight on the Closure of Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser
During the JP Morgan Global Technology, Media & Communications Conference, Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro shed light on the decision to close the highly anticipated Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser later this year.
Addressing the audience, D’Amaro acknowledged, “While the Starcruiser experience offered a groundbreaking and unprecedented adventure, its performance did not meet our expectations. Therefore, we have made the decision to sunset the experience in September.”
(Kent Phillips, photographer)
In response to this closure, D’Amaro revealed that Disney plans to accelerate the depreciation of the Starcruiser hotel by $150 million in both Q3 and Q4 of 2023. This financial adjustment reflects the company’s commitment to adapting to changing circumstances and making strategic decisions for the future.
Rey (left) battles Kylo Ren during a moment from Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (David Roark, photographer)
Although the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser journey is coming to an end, Disney remains dedicated to providing guests with exceptional and innovative experiences throughout its portfolio of attractions and destinations. The decision to close the Starcruiser allows Disney to continually raise the bar and explore new avenues to amaze and delight visitors.
As Disney continues to evolve and shape the future of its parks and resorts, guests can anticipate the arrival of exciting new adventures and immersive experiences that capture the imagination and bring beloved stories to life in remarkable ways.
New Cinderella Loungefly Backpack Available At Walt Disney World!
This new Cinderella Loungefly Backpack is a dream come true! Is part of the Disney100 Decades 1950’s collection and it can be yours for $88. You can get yours at retail stores around Walt Disney World, as well as, online at shopDisney.
The backpack features a lenticular image of Cinderella on the front making her go from rags to riches in seconds just like magic! She is surrounded by the Fairy Godmother, Bruno, Jaq, Gus, Luke and Bert.
On the back, it features Cinderella’s coach on the way to the ball and the Disney100 logo at the top! Definitely a gorgeous backpack fit for royalty.
Final Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is Now Sold Out. News broke last week that Disney will be permanently closing the Galactic Starcruiser, with the final voyage being from Sept 28th to the 30th, 2023.
Disney Reservations stopped new bookings until May 26th to accommodate guests who had already made reservations that began after Sept 28th. Guests who moved quickly were able to book the final voyage, and now there will be no available reservations to book for that final voyage.
We were huge fans of the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser and are sad to see this immersive experience come to an end, but Disney has stated that they will reevaluate the whole experience.
Final Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is Now Sold Out
The final voyage for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will take place September 28-30, 2023. We are so proud of all of the Cast Members and Imagineers who brought Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser to life and look forward to delivering an excellent experience for Guests during the remaining voyages over the coming months. Thank you to our Guests and fans for making this experience so special.
For Guests who previously booked a voyage on or after September 30, 2023, we will be contacting you soon to discuss your options and modify your plans. As we prioritize these Guests, at this time, new bookings are temporarily paused and will reopen on May 26, 2023.
Disney News Highlights: The Little Mermaid Soundtrack Released, New Summer Ticket Offer at Disney World, Dozens of Shows Being Removed on Disney +, Space 220 Introduces New Menu.
Walt Disney World Resort Unveils New Summer Ticket Offers Walt Disney World has announced new summer ticket offers for regular guests and Florida residents! If you’re planning on visiting Disney World this summer, you’ll want to take a look at these deals.
EPCOT’s Space 220 Restaurant Unveils New Menu Items Space 220, the space-themed restaurant that opened in 2021 near Mission Space at EPCOT, has expanded its dinner menu with new appetizers, entrees, desserts, and drink options.
Spooktacular Savings for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets at Disney World Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets are available to purchase! The popular Walt Disney World event is returning on select nights from August through October this year. Tickets can get pricey but there are some spooktacular savings for select groups of people!
New Churro Ear Headband Now Available At Epcot! A new foodie fashion find has arrived to Disney World! A new Churro Ear Headband that is incredibly sweet and adorable is available now at the Creations Shop in Epcot for $34.99 and we hope we can find it soon online at shopDisney.
Disneyland Resort Announces Special Offerings for Black Music Month in June Black Music Month is coming up and Disneyland Resort is celebrating with special offerings. Guests can enjoy live music every day, special food and drinks, artist signings at WonderGround Gallery, and Black-owned food truck Happy Ice.
New Disney Planters Spotted At Epcot! Add magic to your home and start your love for enchanting gardens with these adorable Disney Planters we found at Epcot for $19.99 each!
New Characters, Foods, and More at Disney’s Hollywood Studios New characters, foods, and more have arrived at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Pixar Place has reopened with some of our favorite characters, the Perfect Picnic basket has arrived and new merchandise collections are out.
Disney News Highlights
Dozens of Original Shows Being Removed from Disney+ & Hulu to Cut Costs Disney will start cutting content from its streaming services early next week. Disney has implemented several cost-cutting measures, and culling its library of offerings on Disney+ and Hulu will help the bottom line. Titles such as “Willow,” “The Mysterious Benedict Society,” “Dollface,” and “The One and Only Ivan” are just some of the over 50 titles that will be leaving the streaming giant in the upcoming future.
Disney Genie+ Cost Going Up Next Week Memorial Day Weekend is a 3-day weekend that, for many Americans, marks the start of summer vacation season. Walt Disney World resort is a popular destination for the long weekend, resulting in an increase in crowds across the resort. This increase in crowds also has the potential to result in an increase in the cost of Genie+.
Harmonious Live! Leaving Disney+ Next Week Harmonious Live! Leaving Disney+ Next Week Earlier this week we posted a full list of all the shows and entertainment leaving Disney +.
Figment Little Golden Book Coming to Amazon in January 2024
Join Figment, the beloved purple dragon from Disney’s EPCOT theme park, on a magical adventure into the realms of imagination with this delightful Little Golden Book! Perfect for children ages 2 to 5, as well as Disney Parks fans and Little Golden Book collectors of all ages.
In this enchanting story, young readers will be captivated as Figment takes them on a whimsical journey through the Imagination Pavilion. Along the way, they’ll encounter the inspiring lyrics of the cherished Disney song “One Little Spark,” a melody that celebrates the power of creativity and imagination.
With vibrant illustrations and a heartwarming narrative, this Little Golden Book brings to life the essence of Figment’s character and the imaginative wonders of Disney’s EPCOT theme park. It’s a delightful tale that will ignite the imaginations of young readers, inviting them to dream big and embrace their unique creative abilities.
Whether you’re introducing your little ones to the magic of Disney or adding to your cherished collection of Little Golden Books, this enchanting storybook is a must-have. Join Figment as he sparks imagination and encourages the exploration of limitless possibilities in this timeless tale that will inspire and delight readers of all ages.
You can preorder the Figment Little Golden Book now on Amazon. This title will be released on January 2nd, 2024.
Harmonious Live! Leaving Disney+ Next Week Earlier this week we posted a full list of all the shows and entertainment leaving Disney +. “Disney will start cutting content from its streaming services early next week. Disney has implemented several cost-cutting measures, and culling its library of offerings on Disney+ and Hulu will help the bottom line. Titles such as “Willow,” “The Mysterious Benedict Society,” “Dollface,” and “The One and Only Ivan” are just some of the over 50 titles that will be leaving the streaming giant in the upcoming future.”
Included with the shows leaving is Harmonious Live!, previously recorded at Epcot last year. Harmonious premiered for the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary in late september 2021. The live entertainment spectactualr ended on April 2, 2023 and was replaced by EPCOT Forever! while a new show is being developed for the Disney100, set to premier later this year.
Who knows what the future holds for this nighttime spectacular, if it will ever return to Disney +, or if people will get a chance to see this show in its enterity ever again.
“Harmonious” is a key milestone in the transformation of EPCOT that invites you to travel the globe through new interpretations of classic Disney songs as you’ve never heard them before. The songs are reimagined in more than a dozen languages by a diverse group of 240 artists from around the world. Here are more exciting details about this one-of-a-kind evening experience!
LEGO Ideas Celebrates a Milestone as ‘The Muppet Show’ Gains 10,000 Supporters
Here’s an exciting opportunity to transform your cherished memories into a tangible LEGO set: introducing “The Muppet Show” by the talented LEGO Ideas builder Bulldoozer!
After years of perseverance, Ivan Guerrero, also known as Bulldoozer, took to Twitter to express his delight. “LEGO Ideas has finally given me the chance to submit my design for ‘The Muppet Show’ set,” he shared. “I’ve been working towards bringing this set to life for six years now.”
Now, you too can experience the joy and nostalgia of “The Muppet Show” as Bulldoozer’s remarkable creation becomes a reality. Get ready to relive the magic in the form of a delightful LEGO set that you can hold in your hands.
It’s time to get things started on the most sensational, inspirational, celebration, Muppetational LEGO Ideas set ever!
For nearly 70 years, Jim Henson’s creations have captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world in movies, TV shows, Disney attractions, concerts, and more. Now, for the first time ever, join Kermit the Frog, Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy, and the Great Gonzo in this zany recreation of the Muppet Show in LEGO form!
This miniature playset beautifully houses some of the Muppet’s most hilarious and endearing production numbers through the years. The theater proscenium features an ornate red and gold facade harkening back to the show’s vaudevillian roots. Look closely at some of the art deco decor… you might spot a few easter eggs hiding in the design.
The mainstage includes three mini diorama sets and a detachable balcony. With ‘you’ as the guest star, start off the show beneath the Muppet Show’s iconic opening theme arches. Then, you’ll be able to act out wacky experiments in Muppet Labs, cook up a feast in the Swedish Chef’s Kitchen, rock out with the Electric Mayhem, or explore the final frontier on the set of the USS Swinetrek. If that’s not enough, Statler and Waldorf will throw in a quick heckle or two from their balcony seats.
When the show is over, go behind the curtain to get a glimpse at what happens behind the scenes. Backstage, you’ll find perfect recreations of the show’s original set and props. Stop by Kermit’s desk and watch him frantically put together the next big act. Sneak inside Miss Piggy’s dressing room for a makeover (before she karate chops you!). On your way out through the stage door exit, make sure to sign out at Pop’s desk.
The Muppet theatre set captures the comedy-variety show feel of the original Muppet Show. Blending together LEGO bricks with the songs, wit, and humor of Jim Henson, this set is a nostalgic way to replay some of the greatest episodes in television history.
This set comes with nine figures: Kermit the Frog, Firstmate Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Statler, Waldorf, the Swedish Chef, Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, Beaker, and Gonzo. It includes several pack-in and buildable characters such as, Robin, a Koozebanians, Muppaphone, Gaffer, Camilla, lobster banditos, ’80s Robot, Waldo C. Graphic, Muppet penguins, rats, chickens, vegetables and a whole lot more!
Disney News Highlights: Fantasmic Not Returning Until Labor Day, Disneyland Expansion 30-Year Plan, Wonderful World of Disney Crocs, Dozens of Shows Being Removed From Disney +.
New Stitch Ear Headband Spotted At Disney Springs! Experiment 626 fans will love this Stitch Ear Headband we found at World of Disney in Disney Springs for $34.99! It used to be available online at shopDisney but it appears to be out of stock right now, hopefully we can get a restock online soon because this headband is a must have.
Disneyland Unveils Extensive 30-Year Plan for Theme Park Expansion Disneyland will be sharing its 30-year plan for theme park expansion with the Anaheim Planning Commission and City Council soon! Yesterday, Disney unveiled its plans to Orange County business leaders. The Anaheim theme park resort district is going to be extensively reimagined over the next 3 decades.
Spooktacular Savings for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets at Disney World Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets are available to purchase! The popular Walt Disney World event is returning on select nights from August through October this year. Tickets can get pricey but there are some spooktacular savings for select groups of people!
New Disney100 The Wonderful World Of Disney Crocs Now At Disney Springs! Relive the golden age of Disney television with every step you take using these The Wonderful World Of Disney Crocs! We found them at Disney Springs for $64.99 and immediately fell in love with them, they feature the right amount of nostalgia and magic.
Dozens of Original Shows Being Removed from Disney+ & Hulu to Cut Costs Disney will start cutting content from its streaming services early next week. Disney has implemented several cost-cutting measures, and culling its library of offerings on Disney+ and Hulu will help the bottom line. Titles such as “Willow,” “The Mysterious Benedict Society,” “Dollface,” and “The One and Only Ivan” are just some of the over 50 titles that will be leaving the streaming giant in the upcoming future.
Transformation of Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Expected to be Completed in 18 Months
The Downtown Disney District at Disneyland is currently undergoing a transformation. New and enhanced retail and dining locations are coming to the location. Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock recently shared a timeline for the transformation to be completed.
The reimagining of Downtown Disney was first announced at Destination D23 in 2021. Potrock recently shared that the transformation will be completed in the next 18 months. That puts the date of completion around the end of 2024.
New dining and retail locations are coming to Downtown Disney as well as an open lawn area for relaxation and future events. The west-end area will be a beautiful blend of vibrant color palettes, design elements and patterns influenced by the region.
Some of the locations coming to the district include Porto’s Bakery, the award-winning Din Tai Fung, and a permanent home for Earl of Sandwich. The fan-favorite sandwich shop is currently in the former home of La Brea Bakery. Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen has been renovated and Catal & Uva Bar has been demolished to make way for Paseo and Centrico, Mexican cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytan.
Are you looking forward to seeing the completed Downtown Disney District?
Want to visit the Disneyland Resort? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
Disneyland Resort Announces Special Offerings for Black Music Month in June
Black Music Month is coming up and Disneyland Resort is celebrating with special offerings. Guests can enjoy live music every day, special food and drinks, artist signings at WonderGround Gallery, and Black-owned food truck Happy Ice.
During Black Music Month in June, Guests can groove to nightly live band performances at the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage, featuring different genres throughout the week, including Jazz Fusion, Caribbean and Mid-Century Jazz. More than 17 different musical groups are lined up to perform, with four performance sets each night.
The festivities continue with live music scheduled daily through June 30 at the Hollywood Backlot Stage in Disney California Adventure Park, featuring Midnight Hour, Finesse and The Rhythm & Blues Brothas. The Pool Deck at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will present daily performances from talented acts DJ Quami, Island Reggae Duo and da-light.
Additional highlights for Black Music Month include:
Specialty food and beverages available through July 4, such as the BBQ hot link sandwich
Artist signings at WonderGround Gallery with Ryan Riller (June 10) and Larissa Marantz (June 17)
Black-owned food truck Happy Ice will serve their signature water ice desserts from June 9 to July 4 at the Downtown Disney District
Artist Events at Eudora’s Chic Boutique (Disneyland)-Enjoy events showcasing Black artists and take your artwork to the next level—get it signed by the creator!
Experience Tale of the Lion King (Disneyland)-Rediscover Simba’s journey in a heartfelt live show featuring storytelling, music and dance.
Troubadour Tavern (Disneyland)-Located next to Fantasyland Theatre, this quick-service stand celebrates Tale of the Lion King with a special menu featuring African-inspired snacks and tasty bites.
Frederick Douglass Exhibit (Disneyland)-Pay tribute to American heroes like Frederick Douglass at Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln in the Main Street Opera House. Douglass, a prominent leader of the abolitionist movement, escaped slavery and became a renowned social reformer, writer and statesman.
Five & Dime (Disney California Adventure)-Soulful singer Dime and her jazz quintet perform hits of the ‘20s and ‘30s with brass and sass.
Meet Moon Girl (Disney California Adventure)-For a limited time at Hollywood Land in Disney California Adventure Park, encounter Moon Girl from the animated Disney series, Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, now available on Disney Channel and Disney+.
Will you be visiting the Disneyland Resort this June?
Want to experience Black Music Month at Disneyland? Contact me today 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.
Details Revealed for Adventures by Disney Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Destinations
Next year Adventures by Disney will be visiting Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island among other Eastern Maritimes of Canada. This new itinerary is full of natural beauty and outdoor activities for the entire family and is available to book now!
Nova Scotia, located on the east coast and almost completely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, is home to three national parks and is known for its historical appeal. Upon arriving in Halifax, just one look out the airplane window and you’re immediately transported to vacation mode. The magnificent ocean and the lush landscape give a peek into what you’ll experience over the next eight days.
This land adventure begins at the Sugar Moon Farm and tasting authentic maple syrup tapped on site. You’ll learn the process that takes this deliciousness from tree to table. Yum!
The Charm of Prince Edward Island
The adventure next features a picturesque ferry ride to Prince Edward Island, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence – meaning endless beaches and fresh sea air. The stunning white shingled tower and red iron lantern of the Wood Islands Lighthouse, built in 1876, are striking contrasts against the beautiful blue skies. Local guides will lead a tour and share the history of the lighthouse, plus you’ll learn about the area’s sea life and sea glass which support the area’s aquatic ecosystem.
Junior Adventures will have their own kite making and flying activity on the shore, and it will be a beautiful site to watch the sea breeze carry the kites high in the sky.
Fans of the “Anne of Green Gables” stories will recognize Avonlea Village, the fictitious name author Lucy Maud Montgomery gave to Cavendish. Here, you’ll explore the historic buildings and visit the museum dedicated to the noted author and the schoolhouse where she taught. Avonlea Village is dotted with replications of houses and shops from the time of the novels. You can even opt to roll up your sleeves to plant and dig potatoes, take a carriage ride, and have tea with a descendant of her family.
The Confederation Bridge, an Engineering Marvel
En route to the mainland, you’ll stop at the Confederation Bridge, a magnificent display of Canadian engineering, before embarking on a relaxing boat cruise on the calm waters of Shediac Bay. An expert in lobstering will share about sustainable and responsible fishing practices, followed by lunch onboard.
More fun awaits at the Funday Bay (pun intended!). During low tide, you’ll embark on a privately guided tour of the open ocean floor and hear stories about the origin of Hopewell Rocks Park. At Hopewell Rocks, select from a variety of activities, such as kayaking, horseback riding, or bike riding followed by canoeing. Not to be missed is watching high tide come in that evening. And be sure to look up after sunset to see a beautiful star-filled sky.
Let’s Explore Halifax
Our next stop is the Millbrook Cultural Center to learn about the Mi’kmaq people, their traditions and ceremonies, and the significance of the Talking Stick. Historically and culturally, the Talking Stick is a tool to keep order and teach respect for others. You’ll even select your own stick to take home and personalize it with accessories such as beads, paint and feathers.
The final day of this inspiring trip will include exploring the Trans-Canada Trail and hiking along the renovated railway trail. What I appreciate about traveling with Adventures by Disney is built-in on-your-own time to dine, shop or explore like locals. I highly recommend lunch at a café on the waterfront – what a view!
Following the morning and early afternoon activities, everyone will gather for a sailing on a 130-foot schooner called the M/S Silva. The tall ship, constructed in the 1930s, will sail through Halifax Harbour with views of historical landmarks and beautiful scenery. The farewell dinner is in a restored 1800s warehouse converted into a nautical-themed pub. Celtic entertainment and a hearty, authentic Nova Scotia meal will leave everyone with memories to last a lifetime.
As with every Adventures by Disney trip, our Disney-trained Adventures Guides lead every step of the way and take care of all the details, ensuring a fun-filled, hassle-free vacation. They even plan activities for the Junior Adventures (younger guests)!
I hope you enjoyed this closer look into one of the newest itineraries offered by Adventures by Disney. We can’t wait for you to discover Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island!
Departures begin in June 2024 and run through the summer months. Want to book your next vacation with Adventures by Disney? Contact me today for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
LEGO Recreates the Enchanting ‘Magic Happens’ Parade Float for Disney100 Celebration
In celebration of Disney’s 100th anniversary, a remarkable parade float constructed entirely of LEGO bricks was created for the Making Wonder YouTube series.
The ultimate Disney parade float made entirely of LEGO bricks! #Disney100#LEGODisney ✨
Set against the iconic backdrop of the Walt Disney Company Headquarters, LEGO Master Builder Pete Donne unveiled a captivating creation in vibrant shades of lavender, cerulean, and silver. This exquisite replica was inspired by a real parade float originally designed by Catie Dellemonac, the Art Director for Disney Live Entertainment.
The spotlight shone on Mickey Mouse’s float, which leads the enchanting “Magic Happens” parade at Disneyland Park. Dellemonac, the creative force behind the float, was invited to share insights into her role at Disney Live Entertainment and provide fascinating details about this captivating creation.
As an art director, I really set the stage for all of the entertainment offerings that we have, designing photo locations for festivals — really just telling the story of our Disney characters and bringing them to life.
