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Walt Disney World Resort Celebrates 45th Anniversary to Colorful Fanfare

Walt Disney World Resort marked its 45th anniversary Saturday with a flurry of 45 beloved Disney characters in a colorful celebration at Magic Kingdom Park.

The crowds cheered as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald, Pluto and all of their pals flooded the Cinderella Castle stage to the classic tune of “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah.”

Walt Disney World Resort marked its 45th anniversary Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016, with a flurry of 45 beloved Disney characters in a colorful fanfare at Magic Kingdom Park. The celebration hit a high note with a special live arrangement of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” underscored by a burst of pyro magic and colorful streamers shot high above the Kingdom. (David Roark, photographer)

It was 45 years ago – Oct. 1, 1971 — when Walt Disney World officially opened, rising from the marshy landscape southwest of Orlando, Florida. The much ballyhooed “Florida project” was the dream of visionary Walt Disney.

Walt Disney World President George A. Kalogridis, surrounded by a flurry of beloved Disney characters, addresses Magic Kingdom Park guests during the 45th anniversary of Walt Disney World, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016. The celebration hit a high note with a special live arrangement of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” underscored by a burst of pyro magic and colorful streamers shot high above the Kingdom. (David Roark, photographer)

“I was here on that day,” Walt Disney World President George A. Kalogridis told guests gathered in front of Cinderella Castle Saturday. “I can tell you that, for all of us Cast Members, in the resorts and the theme park, both, it was a day of excitement, anticipation, and considerable butterflies in the stomach. But mostly it was a day of joy, because we had the privilege of knowing that we were about to create Disney memories that our Guests could cherish for a lifetime.”

The celebration hit a high note with a special live arrangement of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” underscored by a burst of pyro magic and colorful streamers shot high above the Kingdom.

Though he never lived to see opening day, Walt Disney’s legacy of family entertainment lives on in four Florida theme parks (including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom), two water parks, more than two dozen resort hotels, the Disney Springs retail-dining-entertainment complex, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and other venues.

Walt Disney once said that Disneyland (and by extension all Disney parks) would never be completed. It will continue to grow so long as there is imagination left in the world.

In keeping with Walt’s wish, in 2016, Disney World welcomed a number of attractions throughout all four parks and new shopping and dining experiences at Disney Springs. In 2017, the Most Magical Place on Earth, in collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment will bring to life the mythical world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s AVATAR, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. The awe-inspiring land of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and soaring Banshees will give guests a transformational experience they will never forget.

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New Benefits Coming to Walt Disney World Passholders During Resort’s 45th Anniversary Year

Wrapped in exciting fall events, the merriest of holiday happenings and a 2017 filled with spectacular openings, Walt Disney World Resort is marking its 45th anniversary — and unwrapping three special offers for passholders.

Popular Walt Disney World passes, good for theme park admission, valuable Disney savings and other perks throughout the year, gets even sweeter to mark the anniversary:

  • New dining and merchandise benefits – Passholders will receive 10 percent off food and nonalcoholic beverages at selecttable-service restaurants at theme parks and Disney resort hotels and 20 percent off purchases at Disney owned-and-operated merchandise locations. These new benefits will continue even after the anniversary comes to an end on Sept. 30, 2017.
  • Even more savings exclusively during the 45th anniversary – In addition to the ongoing benefits, passholders can save up to 20 percent off the price of food and non-alcoholic beverages at select restaurants in the theme parks, resort hotels and Disney Springs, as well as dinner shows. Passholders can choose from 45 restaurants participating in this special offerduring the 45th anniversary year that runs now through Sept. 30, 2017. Among the great restaurant choices: Signature Dining (Flying Fish, Artist Point, Citricos) and Family Dining (Jungle Skipper Canteen, Wave of American Flavors). And, for the first time in forever, savings are available at select quick-service locations.
  • Get 13 months for the price of 12 – Guests who purchase a 12-month pass will enjoy 13 months of unsurpassed passholder magic filled with seasonal events, unique attractions and stellar entertainment. New passes must be purchased between Oct. 2, 2016 and Jan. 3, 2017. Prices vary depending on pass type selected – Weekday Select, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Platinum Plus.
Celebrate the 45th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort with New Special Offers for Passholders

Celebrate the 45th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort with New Special Offers for Passholders

In addition to offering theme park admission, passes include special savings on resort hotel rooms, merchandise, recreation, sports, tours and spa treatments. Passholders will find still more savings on admission to special events and entertainment. Passes also add value and convenience with benefits like standard parking, park-hopping privileges and a Magic Band.

With all the magic happening now and coming soon to Walt Disney World Resort, there’s never been a better time to be a passholder. Here’s just a sampling of events and happenings:

  • The 21st Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, on now through Nov. 14, features celebrated chefs, more than 30 marketplaces, wine seminars, workshops, dining and tasting events, and the Eat to the Beat Concerts.
  • Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, on select dates now through Oct. 31, brings spooktacular fun to the Magic Kingdom with a Halloween parade, themed fireworks, trick or treating, and a stage show featuring Disney villains.
  • Holidays at Walt Disney World Resort means enchanting fun with dazzling lights, spirited song and snow flurries. Events include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and an all-new stage show at Magic Kingdom, Candlelight Processional at Epcot, plus caroling, tree-lighting ceremonies and visits by Santa himself.
  • Pandora – The World of Avatar (2017) – The awe-inspiring land envisioned by filmmaker James Cameron comes to life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, with floating mountains and bioluminescent rainforests.
  • Disney Springs completes its build out, reimagined from Downtown Disney. There’s more shopping, dining and entertainment than ever before all set among beautiful open-air promenades, meandering springs and waterfront charm. With more than 150 establishments, Disney Springs include trendsetting brands like UNIQLO, kate spade new york and Zara along with and one-of-a-kind boutiques. Foodies can savor everything from tasty food-truck treats to celebrity-chef restaurants.

For more information on either offer or to sign up for a pass, guests can visit  disneyworld.com/passholders

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SHARING THE MAGIC WITH ROY AND MINNIE BY SAM ALLEN

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This October, Magic Kingdom will celebrate the 45th anniversary of the park’s opening and, by extension, the opening of the entire Walt Disney World Resort. Although the “Florida Project,” as it was called in the early planning stages, was Walt Disney’s last great dream, it was another Disney who saw it to its opening day.

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This Is The Single Best Time Of Year To Visit Disney World

With more than 20 million guests walking through its doors in 2015, Disney’s Magic Kingdom is the most popular theme park in the world. Of course, with great popularity comes great crowds, and visitors during the park’s peak seasons of summer and Christmas are likely to become as familiar with long lines as they are with Mickey and Princess Elsa.

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EXPERIENCE ‘A PRINCESS ROYAL RECEPTION’ THIS OCTOBER AT DISNEY SPRINGS

This October, you can enjoy a one-month, limited time opportunity to meet a Disney Princess at World of Disney at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World® Resort.

With surprise appearances each day, you could meet Cinderella, Snow White, Aurora, Tiana or another visiting princess – there are no set times for specific characters, but you are always sure to receive a royal reception.

With a Disney PhotoPass photographer on hand to capture each interaction, these magical moments will be available for you to purchase or download as part of their Memory Maker product purchase.

This opportunity will be available at World of Disney between the hours of 10 a.m.- and 4 p.m. daily from Oct. 1 – Nov. 1, 2016. Once you check in, a Cast Member will share the approximate wait time and return instructions.

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‘Lion King’ Live-Action Movie in the Works From Disney

Disney’s animated classic The Lion King is the latest movie to be reimagined as a live-action/CG project.

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DISNEY CRUISE LINE HALLOWEEN ON THE HIGH SEAS AND VERY MERRYTIME CRUISES 2017 SAIL DATES

Disney Cruise Line offers holiday fun for you on special Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises.

Thrills and chills await you at every turn during Halloween on the High Seas, thanks to not-so-scary parties, eerie entertainment and bewitching décor – including an evolving Halloween tree that transforms throughout the cruise. And, during Very Merrytime Cruises, you can delight in seasonal magic at sea as they discover a jolly fusion of holiday-themed entertainment, activities and décor.

Halloween on the High Seas will take place on the following sail dates:

Ship 2016 Sail Dates 2017 Sail Dates
Disney Magic
Disney Wonder
Disney Dream
Disney Fantasy		 October 2 – October 29, 2016
Not Available
September 2 – October 31, 2016
September 3 – October 29, 2016		 September 27 – October 28, 2017
September 15 – October 27, 2017
September 4 – October 30, 2017
September 2 – October 28, 2017

Halloween on the High Seas Logo

Other special experiences include:

  • Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party—an atrium party scare-a-bration in addition to Pirate Night—with ghoulish games, trick-or-treating, dancing and some favorite Disney Pals in their Halloween attire
  • Halloween-themed activities for all ages, such as mask-making for kids and pumpkin-carving for teens
  • Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream, an interactive movie experience where you’re part of the action, followed by a meet-and-greet with Jack and Sally
  • Haunted Stories of the Sea—a campfire-style storytelling experience on the deck
  • Halloween movie marathon to get you in the spirit, shown on Funnel Vision and on the dedicated in-room television channel
  • Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids—an adults-only party that includes a costume contest

And more spooky surprises await you onboard!

With so much to see and do, you won’t want to miss this Halloween celebration at sea. Be sure to pack your favorite costumes and get ready for happy haunts.

Holiday activities and offerings are subject to change and may vary by ship and itinerary.

This holiday season, delight in magical merriment at sea with Very Merrytime Cruises—a Disney Cruise Line event.

Very Merrytime Cruises will take place on the following sail dates:

Ship 2016 Sail Dates 2017 Sail Dates
Disney Magic
Disney Wonder
Disney Dream
Disney Fantasy		 November 5 – December 23, 2016
November 10 – December 23, 2016
November 7 – December 22, 2016
November 19 – December 24, 2016		 November 11 – December 24, 2017
November 10 – December 22, 2017
November 10 – December 22, 2017
November 11 – December 23, 2017

Very Merrytime Logo

Holiday Cheer at Castaway Cay
A winter wonderland awaits you aboard each ship—as well as at Castaway Cay!

Disney’s private island paradise is transformed with “snow” flurries, a Christmas tree and more. Be on the lookout for Mr. and Mrs. Snowman, dressed in their island attire. Plus, the island’s tram is decorated to resemble a reindeer, complete with antlers and a tail.

Onboard Experiences
On the ship, discover a festive fusion of holiday-themed entertainment, activities and décor—with a life-sized gingerbread house, 24-foot Christmas tree, garlands, poinsettias, shimmering lights and more!

Other holiday enhancements include:

  • Deck the Deck Tropical Holiday Party, a celebration in addition to Pirate Night, with candy-cane limbo, dancing and games
  • Tree Lighting Ceremony, where kids can help light the tree and kick off the holiday festivities
  • Winter Wonderland Ball—welcome the guests of honor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, with a grand celebration featuring Broadway-style entertainment, favorite Disney characters and classic holiday tunes
  • Santa Claus meet-and-greet, an exciting opportunity to take family pictures and see Santa
  • Meet-and-Greets with some favorite Disney Characters, dressed in their holiday attire
  • Teen-only and tween-only holiday parties—private celebrations where teens and tweens can hang out with new friends
  • Holiday storytelling, with new and old tales about holidays at sea and around the world
  • Themed activities and crafts for kids—decorate stockings, make holiday cards, go on a holiday scavenger hunt and more
  • A life-sized gingerbread house made completely with edible ingredients—and the opportunity to make your own gingerbread house*
  • Holiday merchandise available for this event

Plus, on December 24 and 25, enjoy additional holiday experiences:

  • Cookies on Christmas Eve
  • Special holiday towel animals
  • Special holiday surprise
  • Holiday caroling with the kids and crew
  • Religious Services

When you celebrate winter holidays with Disney Cruise Line, you can spend more quality time together with loved ones as you sail from one spectacular port to the next.

Holiday activities and offerings are subject to change and may vary by ship and itinerary.

*The life-sized Gingerbread Houses will be constructed in November, and will not be available on early November sailings. It should be completed and ready for viewing in the last week of November.

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EPCOT PRESENTS FOOD AND WINE AND MICKEY BY SAM ALLEN

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While today marks the first official day of fall, many of Walt Disney World’s traditional autumn events are already well underway including the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.

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Disney Parks Salutes U.S. Military with Special Tickets, Room Rates for 2017

At Walt Disney World Resort from Sept. 28, 2016 through Dec. 16, 2017, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active or retired members of the National Guard, Reservists, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)) or their spouses can purchase:

  • Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $209 each, plus tax.
  • Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Water Park Fun and More Option for $209 each, plus tax.
  • Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $246 each, plus tax.
  • Disney 5-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $224 each, plus tax.
  • Disney 5-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Water Park Fun and More Option for $224 each, plus tax.
  • Disney 5-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $261 each, plus tax.

Walt Disney World Resort tickets may be used Jan.1, 2017, through Dec. 19, 2017, except that the tickets may not be used April 9 – 23, 2017.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by Dec. 19, 2017.

At the Disneyland Resort – from Nov. 1, 2016 through Dec. 16, 2017, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active or retired members of the National Guard, Reservists, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA))) or their spouses can purchase:

  • Disney Military Promotional 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $156 each.
  • Disney Military Promotional 4-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $181 each.

Disneyland tickets may be used Jan. 1 – Dec. 19, 2017, except that the tickets may not be used April 9 – 23, 2017.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by Dec. 19, 2017.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can also take advantage of specially priced rooms at select Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort hotels.* This offer is valid for stays most nights from Jan. 1 – Dec. 19, 2017, except for April 9 –23, 2017.

For information on Disney 4-Day/5-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to Walt Disney World Resort, or to make room reservations at Walt Disney World Resort, military personnel may call 407-939-5684 or participating U.S. military base ticket offices. For information regarding Disney 3-Day/4-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort, or to make room reservations at the Disneyland Resort, military personnel may call 866-943-7872 or participating U.S. military base ticket offices. Information is also available at DisneyMilitaryOffers.com.

Here are some other details guests should know about:

  • Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets ONLY by Eligible Service Members (defined below) or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and other family members and friends, as provided herein. These Tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold.
  • “Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the U.S. military, including the National Guard, Reservists and the U.S. Coast Guard, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
  • The actual prices charged at the individual U.S. military base ticket offices for Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be less than the prices set forth above.
  • Participating military sales outlets must require that Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) present valid military identification to purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets.
  • Subject to certain exceptions, Disney 4-Day/5-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort are not valid until activated by the Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options expire and may not be used after December 19, 2017. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.
  • Disney 3-Day/4-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort expire and may not be used after December 19, 2017. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.
  • No more than six (6) Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased and (if applicable) activated by any Eligible Service Member or spouse (regardless of the place of purchase and whether purchased by that person or that person’s spouse). In addition, one of the six (6) Tickets purchased must be used by the Eligible Service Member or his/her spouse.
  • Each Disney Military Promotional Ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.

– See more at: http://wdwnews.com/releases/2016/09/28/disney-parks-salutes-u-s-military-with-special-tickets-room-rates-for-2017/#sthash.k0JNcb6L.dpuf

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Building Disney’s Magic Kingdom

Kelly Wise Valdes didn’t think twice about visiting the Magic Kingdom when she was a child. Her grandfather, Chester “Chet” Wise, helped build the Disney park starting in 1969 and continued to work there until he retired in the late 1980s. Her grandmother, Elizabeth Wise, also worked at the park. They lived right by it until Chet Wise died in 2002, so Valdes visited often.

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