WDW Daily News

By: Disney Destinations

As part of our countdown to Disney Cruise Line’s “Silver Anniversary at Sea” celebration, we’ve been sharing details about the newest tier of Castaway Club, Pearl. We’re excited to reveal more of the magic awaiting our most loyal guests.

Castaway Club is our special way of recognizing Disney Cruise Line guests who have continued to sail time and time again. Members are rewarded with exclusive at-home and onboard benefits that add an extra layer of magic to their Disney cruise experience. 

For nearly two-and-a-half decades, members of the Castaway Club have played an integral role in the Disney Cruise Line story. The new membership tier was named “Pearl” to honor the valued relationship we have formed with guests over the years and is inspired by the time it takes for a pearl to be formed in nature. With the launch of Pearl this summer on May 1, cruisers who have sailed on at least 25 Disney Cruise Line vacations will have access to more rewards and perks than ever before.

Unlimited Digital Downloads: Bring Home Memories That Last a Lifetime

On every Disney Cruise Line sailing, professional photographers capture pictures to help families preserve their most precious vacation souvenir of all – the memories made at sea. As a special “thank you” from Disney Cruise Line, Pearl Castaway Club members will unlock unlimited complimentary digital downloads, so they can cherish each magical moment for years to come.

The First to Know: Book Disney Cruise Line Vacations Before Anyone Else

When it comes to the ever-expanding list of exciting Disney Cruise Line itineraries, Castaway Club Pearl members will be the very first guests to reserve their spot! The new membership tier introduces an early booking window that opens four days before the general public will gain access.

Early Access: Customize Your Cruise Ahead of Time

Disney Cruise Line offers a wide range of onboard and onshore activities that let guests customize their cruise. From character dining experiences and adult-only beverage tasting seminars to Port Adventures and Senses Spa & Salon appointments, there is something for everyone. Pearl members will have the added benefit of scheduling activities before anyone else with an exclusive booking window that opens 123 days before the date of their next cruise beginning later this summer.

Stateroom Surprises: Receive a Warm Welcome from Disney Cruise Line

This summer, all Castaway Club members can look forward to a refreshed assortment of welcome aboard gifts awaiting them in their staterooms. As a part of this special surprise, Pearl members will receive a pair of beautiful pearlescent tumblers that are perfect for hydrating in style during their Disney Cruise vacation. Gifts will be limited to one per statement and are always subject to change and based on availability. 

Complimentary Dinner at Palo: Be Our Guest During a Signature Dining Experience

Beloved by new and returning cruise goers alike for its Italian-inspired cuisine and romantic atmosphere, Palo is one of Disney Cruise Line’s signature adult-exclusive restaurants. Being hosted for dinner at Palo has become a favorite perk for Platinum Castaway Club members over the years. Guests who have earned Pearl membership status can also look forward to a complimentary dining experience at Palo during their next voyage, based on reservation availability. 

Get ready to experience the magic of Disney storytelling like never before at The Villas at Disneyland® Hotel, opening at the Disneyland Resort this September.

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will blend timeless Walt Disney Animation Studios classics with contemporary designs, delicately curating a celebration of Disney history in the place where it all started—the Disneyland Resort. This will be the fourth tower at the Disneyland Hotel, located just steps from the Downtown Disney District.

From the moment Guests catch a glimpse of the 12-story tower’s colorful façade, every space will immerse them in discovering the creative storytelling process, bringing some of their favorite Disney stories to life like never before in a variety of themed accommodations.

Guests can discover the “bare necessities” alongside Baloo and Mowgli in a newly imagined duo studio inspired by “The Jungle Book.”

The dreamy deluxe studios sleep up to four guests and are themed to the tales of “Sleeping Beauty” or “The Princess and the Frog.”

If they’re looking for more space, families can spread out in a one- and two-bedroom villa, sleeping up to five and nine guests, respectively. Check out these gorgeous rooms inspired by the vibrant colors of “Fantasia” or “The Princess and the Frog.”

These villas include a washer and dryer, comfortable living area, plus a full-size kitchen equipped with all the cookware Guests need to bring the flavors of Tiana’s cooking right into your own space!

Guests can fill their vacation with even more enchantment in a multilevel three-bedroom Grand Villa. Sleeping up to 12 guests, the magic and artistry of Disney is sprinkled throughout every space.

The first floor features a full-size kitchen, large dining area, and a double-sided fireplace connecting the living area to a private outdoor balcony. The first floor is also home to the primary suite, inspired by “Bambi.”

And after they’ve explored the countless Disney stories on the first floor of the Grand Villa, Guests can venture up a spiral staircase to discover the delightful details of the second floor, which features two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms inspired by “Frozen” and “Moana,” as well as a full washer and dryer.

Disney Vacation Club Members will have early access to cash rental reservations beginning on March 15, 2023, by calling Member Services at (800) 800-9800.

Disneyland Resort Magic Key holders can start booking on the following day, March 16, 2023, by contacting (714) 956-6425.

Villas are limited in availability, and restrictions apply. Subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Bookings will open to the public on March 17, 2023, subject to availability.

More of a good thing is always a great thing! We are thrilled to announce that not only has Disney added additional dates for their Disney After Hours events at Walt Disney World Resort, but they’ve also added a new theme park!

Just in case guests aren’t familiar with Disney After Hours, these specially ticketed experiences occur after the gates close for the night, extending access to favorite attractions and providing them with more opportunities to have a magical Disney experience. The event ticket also allows guests early entry into the park beginning at 6 p.m. at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and 7 p.m. at EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Best of all, the number of tickets for these events is limited, which means lower wait times for some of their favorite attractions.

For the first time in forever, guests can experience EPCOT for three glorious hours after the gates close and get access to top attractions, like Frozen Ever After, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. This is their chance to explore all four neighborhoods in the park with shorter attraction wait times. Be sure to snap a few photos with our favorite Disney characters and munch on some of our favorite Disney snacks. Delight in ice cream novelties, popcorn and select beverages—all included in the cost of this ticketed event—available at carts throughout the park.

But that’s not all! Guests better grab their neon swimwear and get ready for some glowing tropical fun! We are excited to announce that Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park will reopen this spring and along with it, H2O Glow After Hours will be back and ready to “light” up the summer.

With its vibrant decor, a specially themed menu of snacks and treats throughout the park and our favorite watery attractions under the stars, the popular after-hours party is a “must-do” with friends and family this summer. Don’t miss out on what could be the high-“light” of your summer! Move and groove to hot beats during a DJ dance party!  H2O Glow is yet another new experience added to our Disney After Hours portfolio.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios, one of the most popular Disney After Hours experiences, is adding more dates for guests to take control of the Millennium Falcon in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, ride through a cartoon adventure in Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, play like one of Andy’s favorite toys in Toy Story Land and more.

These fan-favorite experiences are scheduled to kick off May 20 at Typhoon Lagoon and June 1 at EPCOT. They join Magic Kingdom Park, running through March 27, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, currently running with additional dates being added beginning May 3. They offer a different way to experience the Disney magic!

Event tickets for EPCOT, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Hollywood Studios can be purchased by all guests starting March 3, 2023, with prices ranging from $75 to $149 (plus tax). Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can begin purchasing Disney After Hours tickets for EPCOT and Typhoon Lagoon as early as February 28. The advance-purchase window is available to guests at Disney Resort hotels and Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, as well as Shades of Green at Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney Vacation Club members and Walt Disney World Annual Passholders can also purchase specially priced tickets for select dates.

(Entertainment, available attractions and experiences are subject to change)

The biggest Ant-Man adventure yet has arrived in theaters and we are ready to enter the Quantum Realm! Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania finds Super Hero partners Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and The Wasp. Together, with Hope’s parents Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer), the family finds themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, interacting with strange new creatures and embarking on an adventure that will push them beyond the limits of what they thought was possible. This thrilling adventure also introduces Kathryn Newton as Cassie Lang and celebrated actor Jonathan Majors as Kang the Conqueror.

For those looking to celebrate the release, here are some exciting and new experiences at Disney California Adventure Park and onboard Disney Cruise Line.

Encounter the Mysterious Kang the Conqueror at Disney California Adventure Park

Kang the Conqueror has slipped through time and arrived at Avengers Campus! Quite possibly the biggest threat Ant-Man and The Wasp have ever encountered, Kang moves stealthily throughout the campus, engaging recruits and seeking information on the heroes in this timeline. Be on the lookout. Kang is only at Disney California Adventure Park for a limited time.

A Drink Vessel Fit for the Quantum Realm

Trust us, everyone is going to be obsessed with this new “Ooze Cauldron,” inspired by a hilarious and pivotal scene in the new film. Sure to be a fan favorite, grab one while supplies last! Available at Pym Test Kitchen featuring IMPOSSIBLE™ within Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure Park.

Sail the Seas Like an Avenger!

The Disney Wish, the newest ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, is the destination for all things Ant-Man and The Wasp when sailing the seven seas. Visit Worlds of Marvel restaurant where guests play an interactive role in an action-packed Avengers mission that unfolds around them, complete with a worldly menu inspired by fan-favorite Super Hero films. Throughout dinner, guests take part in a demonstration of the latest and greatest Pym Tech, the Quantum Core, during an Avengers technology showcase hosted by Scott Lang and Hope Van Dyne during “Avengers: Quantum Encounter.”

At Marvel Super Hero Academy aboard the Disney Wish, young recruits ages 3 to 12 can join a hands-on training session with Ant-Man and The Wasp, who will teach them how to create and test their very own Pym Particles, the technology that allows these heroes to shrink and grow objects (and themselves).

Guests can also experience Ant-Man and The Wasp aboard the Disney Dream for the epic Marvel Day at Sea cruises, including during “Heroes Unite” – an action-packed stage spectacular featuring more than 30 Marvel Super Heroes and Villains.

Watch Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania now in theaters.

At D23 Expo 2022, Disney announced to much fanfare that Pacific Wharf in Disney California Adventure park will turn into San Fransokyo from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award®-winning “Big Hero 6”! 

Those of you who have recently been to the park may have seen that this exciting transformation has already begun. Later this summer, during the Disney100 celebration at Disneyland Resort, Guests will be able to step into the new area — named San Fransokyo Square — and discover new offerings inspired by Baymax and friends.

Today, we’re excited to tell you more about the Walt Disney Imagineering story behind San Fransokyo Square and some of the fun that awaits.

San Fransokyo Square will transport you to the not-too-distant future, in a fictional mash-up of two iconic cities – San Francisco and Tokyo. As the tech industry began to emerge and the local fishing trade fell on hard times, entrepreneurs came together to reinvent the seaside canneries into a vibrant, multicultural district of neighborhood restaurants and small businesses where Guests will be able to eat and shop.

An iconic landmark of the area will be the San Fransokyo Gate Bridge, which will span the tide pools linking San Fransokyo Square to the Paradise Gardens Park obelisk. Once Guests cross the bridge, they’ll catch a view of the floating wind turbine atop an old fishing net tannery, powering the district from high in the sky. Clues to the area’s storied and charming past can be found in the details throughout San Fransokyo Square. 

Outside a converted warehouse at the south end of San Fransokyo, Guests may have the opportunity to encounter Baymax. Today, Pacific Wharf is home to eateries featuring sourdough bread, ice cream sundaes, delicious Mexican fare, Asian dishes and more. Guests will still be able to enjoy all your favorite Pacific Wharf dining locations during this transformation.

When the transformation to San Fransokyo Square is completed this summer, Guests will find familiar favorites like soups in freshly baked bread bowls, as well as many new Asian-inspired selections. The new Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería draws inspiration from its tri-cultural influences with signage in English, Japanese and Spanish. Outside will be a fun and inviting beer garden decorated with festoon lights and papel picado.

The San Fransokyo Square Public Works Department is hard at work on this transformation. Be sure to stay tuned to the Disney Travel News for more details, and we look forward to bringing San Fransokyo Square to life in Disney California Adventure park this summer!  

Theme Park reservations and valid admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit https://disneytraveltradeinfo.com/dlr for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes found himself caught off-guard by the intensity of a Disneyland ride this week while celebrating his Super Bowl 57 victory.

As is customary for the Super Bowl MVP, Mahomes and his family ventured over to a Disney park for a parade and some enjoyment.

Full Story

Previously, we shared that Roundup Rodeo BBQ, the new highly themed table-service restaurant is coming to Toy Story Land on March 23, 2023. Today, we announce that reservations will be available to book beginning next week on Tuesday, Feb. 21 on DisneyWorld.com/Dining

Love is in the air – and treats will soon be in everyone’s stomachs – because Valentine’s Day is nearly here. The Disney chefs and mixologists are concocting love potions of their own this year with delicious flavors that will awaken all hearts and taste buds.

Both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort are about to take guests to cloud nine with the sweet and savory sips and eats being served up as Feb. 14 draws near. Embrace the season of love with delights like the wildly adorable Zebra Mousse Cake at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the can’t-miss Beauty and the Beast Cake at Disney Springs, and, of course, the beautifully delicious Sweetheart Sundae at Disney California Adventure park.

Walt Disney World Resort 

Walt Disney World Resorts 

Available at Various Resorts (Available through Feb. 28; mobile order available) 

• My (Plant-based) Sweetheart Chocolate cupcake with a love-ly swirl of vanilla buttercream and sprinkles (New) (Plant-based Item) (Wheat/ Gluten Friendly); Available at the following:
  • World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
  • Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
  • End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
  • Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
  • Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
  • Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
  • Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort

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By: Disney Destinations

Next year, Disney Cruise Line is bringing back Pixar Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea for even more opportunities to embark on extraordinary adventures during these one-of-a-kind experiences.

Setting sail January through early March from Florida home ports, these exclusive events combine the fun and relaxation of a Disney cruise vacation with one unforgettable day inspired by beloved stories, legendary films and fan-favorite characters.

Pixar Day at Sea

During Pixar Day at Sea, which debuted on the Disney Fantasy in January 2023, guests are immersed in the ever-unfolding stories of their favorite toys, monsters and supers.

The daylong celebration features one-of-a-kind entertainment that brings to life the beloved tales of Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo” and more. Families enjoy a rootin’ tootin’ breakfast, a totally awesome pool party, themed activities and treats, and character encounters around every corner throughout a fun-filled day at sea that ends with a Pixar Pals Celebration dance party and a deck show of incredible proportions.

Pixar Day at Sea will be offered on nine seven-night Caribbean cruises aboard the Disney Fantasy sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida.

• Departing Jan. 6, Jan. 20, Feb. 3, Feb. 17, and March 2, 2024, the eastern Caribbean itinerary includes Tortola, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay.
• Departing Jan. 13, Jan. 27, Feb. 10 and Feb. 24, 2024, the western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.      

Marvel Day at Sea

Marvel Day at Sea combines the thrills of renowned Marvel comics, films and animated series with the excitement of a Disney cruise to unlock the inner Super Heroes in lifelong Marvel fans and newcomers alike.

Occurring on one action-packed day during select Disney Dream cruises, Marvel Day at Sea offers all-day entertainment and encounters with the largest assembly of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains on land or at sea – including classic Avengers, sorcerors and Guardians of the Galaxy, plus Captain America Sam Wilson, Mighty Thor, Shuri, Okoye, Scarlet Witch and many more. Highlights include an extraordinary deck show spectacular with more than 30 characters from across the multiverse, a spellbinding theater show featuring masters of the Mystic Arts, family game shows, themed youth activities, and special merchandise and menus.

Marvel Day at Sea will be offered on 10 five-night Caribbean cruises sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

• Departing Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 18 and March 3, 2024, the western Caribbean itinerary includes George Town, Grand Cayman, and Castaway Cay.
• Departing Jan. 12, Jan. 26, Feb. 9, Feb. 23, and March 8, 2024, the western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico, and Castaway Cay.

The following Seamails are being sent to guests who are booked on these sailings: 

SEAMAIL FOR GUESTS ON MARVEL DAY AT SEA SAILINGS

Dear [Guest],

Thank you for choosing a Disney Cruise Line vacation. We look forward to you sailing with us and want to share some important information about your vacation.

During your sailing, we’ll be celebrating Marvel Day at Sea with themed offerings. Though not required, we encourage Guests to dress up to add to this incredible one-of-a-kind celebration. We invite you to bring a costume or DisneyBounding attire featuring your favorite Marvel Characters to join in the fun.

Please remember that while all Guests are invited to wear costumes, masks that completely cover a person’s face may only be worn when standing still at character photo locations and must be carried when moving around the ship. We also ask that you choose costumes that are not obstructive or offensive. To avoid any disappointment or delay in the boarding process, please refrain from bringing toys or props that resemble guns, knives or other related implements, as these items will not be allowed onboard.

Additional information on themed events, times and locations will be available onboard in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App.

Again, we look forward to sailing with you and hope you have a magical cruise.

Sincerely,

The Cast and Crew
Disney Cruise Line

SEAMAIL FOR GUESTS ON PIXAR DAY AT SEA SAILINGS

Dear [Guest],

Thank you for choosing a Disney Cruise Line vacation. We look forward to you sailing with us and want to share some important information about your vacation.

During your sailing, we’ll be celebrating Pixar Day at Sea with themed offerings. Though not required, we encourage Guests to dress up to add to this incredible one-of-a-kind celebration. We invite you to bring a costume or DisneyBounding attire featuring your favorite Pixar Characters to join in the fun.

Please remember that while all Guests are invited to wear costumes, masks that completely cover a person’s face may only be worn when standing still at character photo locations and must be carried when moving around the ship. We also ask that you choose costumes that are not obstructive or offensive. To avoid any disappointment or delay in the boarding process, please refrain from bringing toys or props that resemble guns, knives or other related implements, as these items will not be allowed onboard.

Additional information on themed events, times and locations will be available onboard in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App.

Again, we look forward to sailing with you and hope you have a magical cruise.

Sincerely,

The Cast and Crew
Disney Cruise Line

At a young age, Tiana developed a deep passion for cooking, and began to dream of one day owning her own business. Her father, James, taught her that good food brings folks together. One of the most exciting parts of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is that we’re going to see where Tiana’s life has taken her following the success of Tiana’s Palace, a restaurant she had dreamed of owning and worked so hard to make come true.

Walt Disney Imagineering is creating an original, next chapter story for Tiana. Within the attraction queue, guests will discover that she continues to grow her business with Tiana’s Foods – an employee-owned cooperative. Combining her talents with those of the local community, Tiana has transformed an aging salt mine and built a beloved brand.

The endeavor began when Tiana purchased the salt mine and the area surrounding the large salt dome it operated from. With the help of her mother Eudora, Naveen, Louis and fellow owners of the cooperative, Tiana revived the old salt mine and the surrounding land, growing a wide array of vegetables, herbs and spices for her recipes.

This multi-faceted enterprise has turned the aging salt mine into a space that has come alive. Complete with a boutique farm and both a working and teaching kitchen, Tiana’s Foods is where Tiana and her colleagues create all sorts of new products that they are bringing to the world, including a line of original hot sauces.

Tiana wants to give a big thanks to her family and friends and the entire community for all the support they’ve given her by throwing an amazing party during Mardi Gras season. When it turns out there’s been a bit of a mix–up with the party preparations, Tiana invites us to meet her at Tiana’s Foods to help with the missing ingredient for the party.

When we arrive, we may see that Tiana spruced up the company’s facilities with vibrant art from local artists. Food for the party is being prepared and beignets are being loaded into crates for the celebration. All kinds of preparations are underway for the journey into the bayou with Tiana, along with new and familiar friends from the animated film.

Picking up where that story left off, Tiana continues bringing people together with Tiana’s Foods, another treasured meeting place to spend time together and celebrate a diverse community. Tiana is also working with cooperative members to teach gardening and cooking to children of all ages, and inspiring other women to run successful businesses as the brand grows nationwide.

Continue following along with the us for updates relating to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, as it makes its way to Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2024.