Almost all of the 50th Anniversary Bunting has been Removed from Cinderella Castle. The transformation from the 50th Anniversary overlay on Cinderella Castle is taking some time to get done.
First Crews at Disney’s Magic Kingdom had to drain the moat, so cranes and scissor lifts could work closer to the castle itself. Then they have to take time to not damage any of the actual Cinderella Castle itself. So it has been over 6 weeks past the end of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary and we are seeing work done daily to remove pieces from Cinderella Castle.
There are only 2 banners left hanging on the castle itself. All the others, along with some of the gems have been removed. The side and back of the castle are getting done first. We should see the twirls come off the turret tops any day now.
Almost all of the 50th Anniversary Bunting has been Removed from Cinderella Castle
A Fairytale Come to Life
Cinderella Castle welcomes you to a magical world where dreams come true. The 189-foot landmark boasts lofty spires and ornate turrets and is the gateway to Fantasyland.
Surrounded by a tranquil moat, the grounds offer an array of picture-perfect photo ops. Explore lush lawns, gardens and Cinderella’s own wishing well.
Inside the Castle
View exquisitely handcrafted glass mosaics that tell the classic story of Cinderella’s rise from orphan to the princess.
Then, enjoy an elegant meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table. Be sure to reserve a table in advance for this one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Florida Woman Arrested for Battery of Elderly Guest While in Line at Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. We have heard from many of you about the frustration revolving around people holding spots in the queue for others to join them, or pushing past you to join up with others in their party.
There have been huge debates about line cutters, or people needing to get back to their place in line after a quick bathroom trip. No matter where you stand on this debate, there is never any reason to resort to violence. As is the case from February of 2023 and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Disney’s Magic Kingdom. You know, the World’s Most Magical Place!
You can read a redacted version of the Criminal Complain below.
On Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at 1757 hours, I, Deputy Gallon, responded to Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom theme park in reference to a physical altercation involving multiple guests. Upon my arrival, I met with all parties directly involved. As a result of my investigation, I developed probable cause to make an arrest for battery.
The following is a synopsis of what they told me both verbally and in their sworn written statements: While they were in line at Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Elaine stated a group behind them asked to move ahead of them in order to rejoin the rest of their family ahead. She then observed an African American female (later identified as Eboni McFarley), accompanied by four children, attempt to push past.
When Elaine and Debra held their places in line, the female became more agitated and again explained why she needed to get past. Elaine explained to Eboni that she need to wait like everyone else and refused to let her through. Eboni became even more agitated and eventually pushed her way past Elaine and Debra. In the process of doing so, Eboni scratched Elaine on her right arm (bicep area), piercing the skin with her fingernails, which caused the wound to bleed. Several people in the immediate area notified Walt Disney World security of the incident.
Florida Woman Arrested for Battery of Elderly Guest While in Line at Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
I spoke with Eboni, as well as the other members of her party, Aunesty McFarley, and Kayla McFarley. They maintained that they felt they were being victimized and profiled because they are African American. Eboni maintained she did not batter or push anyone. She did express a concern that her children were touched during the incident, however, my investigation did not reveal any information to support this. Additionally, none of the children in line with Eboni during the incident were present for me to interview. Please see the statements of Eboni, Aunesty, and Kayla for additional information. As a result of my investigation and based upon the totality of circumstances, probable cause exists to believe that Eboni committed the battery.
I secured Eboni in handcuffs, which were double locked, and check for proper application. Prior to being placed in the rear of my vehicle, Eboni trespassed from all Walt Disney World property. I subsequently transported her to the Orange County jail without further incident. There is no additional information at this time.
Disney World Changes Dining Reservation Modification Times. The Dining and Parking loopholes have been closed, and we all kind of knew this was coming. Just goes to show you we can’t have nice things without someone ruining them. The dining modification times have been changed at all Disney restaurants.
Prior to this week, you could make a reservation and if for any reason you had to cancel the reservation, you had up to 2 hours prior to check-in the cancel it. For modifying a reservation, you had up to 20 minutes prior to changing it. Now if you want to modify, you also must do it prior to 2 hours.
Disney World Changes Dining Reservation Modification Times
The multiple loopholes were as follows, if you needed to cancel a reservation for any reason in the 2-hour window to check in, you could just modify the reservation to the next day and then cancel it. The second major loophole was essential to allow people to park at a monorail resort and skip the TTC.
You would get a reservation at any resort located around the Magic Kingdom, go park at the resort the restaurant was located at, then modify the reservation to 24 hours later, then cancel it completely. Giving you a prime parking spot and avoiding the mayhem that is TTC or the long walk back to your car.
James Gunn Reveals He Came Up With the Infinity Saga’s Story While Writing First Guardians Movie
James Gunn sat down with ComicBook.com and revealed that much of the Infinity Saga was born from the first Guardians of the Galaxy. As part of a trivia quiz, Gunn said, “I wrote that scene in about an hour and a half, it just like came up with what the Infinity Stones were…and (the entire MCU’s) based on that…They were like, ‘You know, we’re thinking about putting the Power Stone in.’ I was like, ‘That’s cool. The Power Stone. The Collector has the Power Stone….’ And I just made up this bullsh-t!””
It’s nice to see that while everything seems to be meticulously planned, Gunn and Feige worked on the fly to incorporate major plot points weaving the story together spontaneously. Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 is now in theaters and completes the story arc for the team.
Construction continues on the new DVC Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Construction on the new Disney Vacation Club tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, which is slated to open in 2024, has continued to make great progress over the past month.
The new main building appears to have grown taller and wider over the past month, with progress made on some of the ground work as well. The new tower, currently scheduled to open in late 2024, will compliment the aesthetics of the existing resort once completed.
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 who specializes 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!
Over 80 kids celebrated 150,000 Disney wishes at Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris experienced a unique takeover recently, as over 80 kids visited as part of a Make-A-Wish initiative. As part of the celebration of more than 150,000 Disney wishes granted, the children descended upon Disneyland Paris to mingle with Disney characters and participate in a parade!
The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a non-profit organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. From meeting their favorite celebrities to taking a dream vacation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation is dedicated to providing hope, strength, and joy to children when they need it most.
Recently, more than 80 children from all over the world got to experience the magic of Disneyland Paris for Wish Weekend. The children, who had all been granted wishes by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, were able to meet their favorite Disney characters, ride the attractions, and make unforgettable memories.
The kids participated in a special ‘pre-parade’ on April 29 that featured a visit from the three good fairies from “Sleeping Beauty,” Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother, Genie from “Aladdin” and, Mickey Mouse.
A special Marvel-themed Wish weekend occurred the week prior, with three special Make-A-Wish kids and Marvel super-fans visiting Disneyland Paris during the “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3” European Gala. The kids were the guests of honor during the event, which included a a surprise greeting with Chris Pratt and Zoe Saldaña.
Disneyland Paris has granted more than 20,000 wishes since opening in 1992 for children with critical illnesses in collaboration with Make-A-Wish and more than 40 nonprofits.
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 who specializes 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!
The all-new Universal Orlando Team Member Campus Commons is set to open in the second half of 2024
Universal Orlando Resort is a landmark theme park destination that draws visitors from all over the world. Universal Orlando Team Members work tirelessly each and every day to ensure visitors have an amazing experience during their visit to Universal Orlando Resort. In recognition of the hard work and dedication of its team members, Universal Orlando Resort has recently unveiled a new space designed specifically for them: the Universal Orlando Resort Team Member Commons.
The Team Member Commons is a new facility that will be located on Universal Orlando Resort’s main campus. According to Karen Irwin, president of Universal Orlando Resort, Team Member Commons will be an “all-in-one location where our Team Members can have a meal, socialize, shop, and take advantage of other services. The project will include an all-new Team Member dining location with modern décor, expanded seating, and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. designed to provide team members with a place to relax, recharge, and connect with each other.”
Construction is scheduled to begin this month, and the commons is expected to open in the second half of 2024.
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 who specializes 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 Disney vacation package through me!
Even More Magic Coming Your Way in 2023 for D23 Members
D23 just released more details on some of the exciting things happening for D23 Members in 2023!
As we continue to celebrate the century of stories that will lead us into a limitless future, D23 is ready to share exciting updates on upcoming experiences that we’re bringing to YOU, the Disney fans who inspire us all to dream bigger.
A cornerstone of the D23 Member experience is our fan-centric events. This year, you were among the first to experience TRON Lightcycle / Run and Disney100: The Exhibition, dove under the sea to celebrate 20 years of Finding Nemo, and even took the ultimate tour of Disneyland Paris to celebrate the Grand Finale of its 30th-anniversary celebration.
And as Walt Disney once said, “…we’re just getting started!” We couldn’t wait to tell you about some of the amazing experiences we’re planning for the rest of this historic year.
First, we’re suiting up for some incredible encounters this summer to celebrate the awe-inspiring heroes from the many worlds of Disney:
Mulan: A 25th Anniversary Outdoor Screening– Relive the epic adventure of Disney’s animated classic Mulan on the big screen with a 25th Anniversary screening! This magnificent event will take place on May 28 at the Los Angeles State Historic Park in Los Angeles, California. We promise this is one event that won’t bring dishonor upon you—or your cow! Tickets on sale now.
Rogers: The Musical at Disney California Adventure – We could do this all day! Literally. And D23 can’t wait to celebrate Rogers: The Musical with the Ultimate Disney Fans at Disney California Adventure! Polish up those shields and start your vocal warm-ups because this super-powered story is going to make hearts soar like a supersonic Quinjet. D23 Gold Members will have an opportunity to “save the city” at this smash-ing hit musical, premiering this summer! More details assembling soon.
D23 Presents – X-Men Hellfire Gala – What do you get when you cross the elegant world of high fashion with the daring world of Marvel Comics? Let’s just say, something truly X-traordinary. D23 is coming to San Diego, California, on July 22 and welcoming heroes, villains, and those in between to an incredibly Uncanny event at the mysterious locale of Krakoa. Prepare your most outlandish of outfits and curious cosplays—tickets go on sale May 24!
Next are a few updates on the biggest Disney fan event of the year, Destination D23 presented by Lug. While we’ve already shared some highlights of this sold-out event, we’re pleased to bring you even more details on other ways to experience this celebration—happening September 8-10 at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Destination D23 Livestream – For those unable to attend in person, select presentations at Destination D23 will be live-streamed on D23.com for audiences to enjoy no matter where you are in the world.
D23 Shopping Spree – While current ticketholders to Destination D23 will gain priority first access to the exclusive shopping opportunities at this event, we will be offering a separate, specially ticketed experience for D23 Gold Members who aren’t attending Destination D23 but still want to snag collectibles, exclusives, and marvelous merchandise with the D23 Shopping Spree. Fans will be offered a chance to take part in shopping at the Contemporary Resort with Mickey’s of Glendale, The Walt Disney Company Store, and the Ink & Paint Marketplace—all of which are creating a stellar lineup of products that allow all fans to showcase their love of Disney in a multitude of ways. Stay tuned for more information on this special shopping opportunity.
This fall, we are in for some monstrously monumental Halloween celebrations—including special events for Hocus Pocus, Tim Burton’sThe Nightmare Before Christmas, and Halloweentown. We’re also thrilled (and chilled) to be returning to the Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival! Disney fans can expect more details coming soon.
D23 Black Flame Ball: Spell-ebrating 30 Years of Hocus Pocus – Just like the sinister Sanderson Sisters, D23 is heading back to Salem, Massachusetts—bringing a bombastic blowout bash to this historic town. It’s been 30 years since the Sandersons first returned to Salem, and we’re lighting the Black Flame Candle one more time to raise the dead (and the roof) at this Halloween happening.
25 Years of Halloweentown with D23 – Return to the magic of Halloweentown with D23, in St. Helens, Oregon, where we’ll be hosting very special 25th anniversary screenings of this DCOM classic in Halloweentown itself!
Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival – D23 is excited to bring a few spine-tingling classics to the film fest that’s a “celebration of outstanding genre cinema in the historic cradle of the American supernatural”—located in the storied town of Sleepy Hollow, New York.
Tim Burton’sThe Nightmare Before Christmas: 30th Anniversary – Fans and stans of every age, wouldn’t you like to see something strange? Come with us and you will see, the Halloween world with D23! Relive the cult classic that has been a staple of the scary and merry seasons for generations of superfans. Much like the pumpkin king himself, we’re mapping out major plans for this skele-bration.
100 YEARS OF DISNEY
Finally, as all fans know, 2023 marks the 100th Anniversary of Disney. D23 was overjoyed to have been a part of this celebration’s kick-off last September at D23 Expo. We’re here to tell you, the excitement has only just begun. From even more magical events to a winter full of Wish, you won’t want to miss a single moment.
100th Anniversary of the Walt Disney Company – In 1923, Walt and Roy Disney started a dream that came true. All because of you. D23 is bringing the dream to life for the fans and welcoming Members to an enchanted celebration at the historic Walt Disney Studios on October 16—the actual 100thAnniversary of Disney. It’s going to be something very special, so stay connected for more details coming soon. And you’re the first to hear that the fall issue of Disney twenty-three will be a special edition commemorating this milestone.
Wish – This year is also marked by a remarkable new story from Walt Disney Animation Studios, also celebrating its 100th They are bringing to life an epic tale that has been a century in the making. Blending multiple styles of animation and referencing a myriad of classic Disney films, Wish is positioned to make every wish you’ve ever had come true. To close out the year, D23 will celebrate the debut of this fantastic new feature with special screenings and so much more.
These are just a few of the exciting experiences we’re bringing to the Ultimate Disney Fans this year. We look forward to seeing you all real soon!
Spaceballs Visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for Star Wars Nite
In probably some of the best costumes I have seen at the Disney Parks, two cosplayers in Spaceballs outfits were spotted at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland for Star Wars Nite.
The video was posted by eggsbenediction on TikTok showing the Spaceballs walking around all over Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and even going on a ride on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
The Spaceballs were in attendance for Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite which allows guests to wear costumes like these. The next Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite will be on May 8th and 11th but both dates are sold out.
This May, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite will grant Guests of all ages special after-hours access to Disneyland Park with the purchase of a separate event admission ticket. Enjoy Star Wars Character sightings, event-themed menu selections and exciting entertainment—including March of the First Order featuring Captain Phasma. Plus, discover special Star Wars-themed photo opportunities, merchandise and more!
Availability is limited—don’t miss this opportunity to be immersed in a Star Wars experience you’ll never forget!
View the Event Guide for more details about the exciting entertainment, dining and shopping offerings at this galactic extravaganza.
Early Admission Enjoy admission to Disneyland Park beginning at 6:00 PM; no theme park reservation required.
Star Wars: Celebrate the Nite Fireworks Show Get immersed in your own Star Wars Adventure—listen to iconic music from the films as you watch an amazing pyrotechnical spectacle illuminate the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle!
Character Experiences Enjoy sightings of beloved Star Wars Characters throughout the evening.
Galactic Dance Party Dance the night away at an epic event sure to make Star Wars history!
Strike a Pose Let Disney PhotoPass photographers capture shots—and incredible memories—against event-themed backdrops.
After-Hours Access to Attractions Ride some of the park’s most unforgettable Star Wars-themed attractions—including Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (subject to availability, which may vary and is not guaranteed) throughout the event, usually with shorter wait times.
Themed Eats Gobble goodies that are out of this galaxy—or purchase a unique dining experience featuring classic New Orleans cuisine at Cafe Orleans.
Themed Merchandise Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase Star Wars-themed items, while supplies last.
Event Keepsakes Receive a commemorative credential and guide map as well as unlimited downloads of Disney PhotoPass digital photos taken during the party. (Credentials and maps are limited to one per ticketed person.)
Inspired Attire Proclaim your allegiance to the light side or dark side of the Force! Dress up as your favorite Star Wars character. (See Costume Guidelines below.)
Disney News Highlights: Disney100 Petite Cake, Star Wars Treats and Merchandise, GOTG Vol 3 Spoiler Free Review, Cast Members Dining Discounts, and more…
Disney World To Offer Cast Member Dining Discounts Through September Working as a cast member at Walt Disney World is a dream come true for many Disney enthusiasts. Cast members receive some great perks, including complimentary theme park admission and discounts at select hotels, dining, merchandise, and recreation locations.
Queen Amidala Chocolate Pinata at the Ganachery in Disney Springs Queen Amidala Chocolate Pinata at the Ganachery in Disney Springs. Revenge of the 5th aka Cinco De Mayo is here. Yesterday, May the 4th Be With You, at Walt Disney World was a pretty pleasant day. With enough snacks to satisfy a Hutt!
New Star Wars Starbucks Mug Ornaments To Add To Your Tree! The force is strong with these new Star Wars Starbucks Mug Ornaments we found at Hollywood Studios! Each set is $49.99 and comes with three different designs that can be used as home decor or also as espresso mugs, so great option for coffee drinkers.
Mother’s Day Disney Gift Guide To Treat The Queen Of The Family! Mother’s Day is just around the corner! If your mom is a Disney fan and you are still looking for the perfect gift, take a look at this Mother’s Day Gift Guide with plenty of options to choose from, you will for sure find something to celebrate this special day.
Number of Post Credit Scenes Revealed for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 Marvel fans have come to expect post-credit scenes as part of their viewing experience, helping signal upcoming stories for the MCU. To date, only one film, Avengers: Endgame, did not have a post-credit scene. Fans expect additional post-credit sequences in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3, and James Gunn has confirmed via Instagram that patrons should stick around after the credits roll.
Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 blasts off for one final ride Who would have imagined a movie franchise featuring a talking raccoon, a living tree, and a group of aliens would capture our hearts and take the Marvel Cinematic Universe by storm. James Gunn did, and he returned to direct one final ride with this lovable cast to say goodbye in Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3.
“Say hello to Hazelnut, the newest member of the aardvark family. 🥳
Hazelnut is the second cub to be born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and she has been spending quality time backstage bonding with her mom Peanut. ✨
Did you know aardvarks can dig burrows up to 42 feet long (13 meters) with more than one entrance? Aardvarks have strong arms and claws that work like miniature shovels, making them experts at digging and allowing them to find ants, termites and other food.
Hazelnut is full of energy and started digging within the first hour of birth, which is a great sign for her development!”
Have you ever seen aardvarks at Disney’s Animal Kingdom?
Want to experience all of the different animals at Walt Disney World? Contact me to start planning your next visit! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
Disney Cruise Line Debuts New Encanto Experiences on the Disney Magic
Disney Cruise Line is bringing new Encanto experiences to the Disney Magic! The magical mountains of Colombia come to life for the first time on the high seas with the debut of new family-friendly experiences.
“An Encanto Celebration” Brings the Family Madrigal to the High Seas for the First Time
Guests can join the fantastical family Madrigal during an all-new immersive experience, “An Encanto Celebration,” designed to engage families through music, crafts and storytelling. The interactive experience gives guests an opportunity to meet and take photos with Mirabel and the family member we don’t talk about, Bruno, during their Disney Cruise Line debut.
Families can also join a spirited sing-along of beloved “Encanto” songs and create butterfly and flower crafts inspired by the film. During the show, guests can experience a true taste of South America thanks to a selection of local Colombian beers, cocktails and sodas along with film-inspired mocktails.
If you love Encanto and want to experience the offerings on Disney Cruise Line, 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.
