A new Alliance is on the horizon for Disney Cruise Line! A brand-new, day-long celebration – Star Wars Day at Sea – is coming to select sailings on the Disney Fantasy in early 2016.
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Archive for Scott
Innovative “Miles from Tomorrowland” Product Line from TOMY to be Showcased at New York Toy Fair
Ahead of New York Toy Fair, Disney Consumer Products unveiled the innovative toy line from TOMY inspired by Disney Junior’s intergalactic adventure series “Miles from Tomorrowland” which launched last Friday and reached 2.0 million unique Total Viewers and 697,000 Kids 2-5, and ranked as the week’s #3 cable TV series among Kids age 2-8. It’s also #1 on the WATCH Disney Junior app, amassing nearly 17 million video views since December.
“Since the debut of Disney Junior, we’ve continued to build a portfolio of unique and inspiring products that delight parents and their preschoolers,” said Josh Silverman, executive vice president of global licensing, Disney Consumer Products. “Space exploration is incredibly rich territory for innovation, and we’re excited to launch a product collection that will capture kids’ imaginations and help bring STEAM themes to life at home.”
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Ebay is selling seven Frozen toys every second
It’s been more than a year since the magic of Princesses Elsa and Anna caused a blizzard at the box office, but the Frozen franchise is still selling like hot cakes online.
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Disneyland Hotel Features Enchanting Magic and Nostalgia
Long a favorite lodging for vacationers at the Disneyland Resort, the Disneyland Hotel brings new magic and significant upgrades to the AAA Four Diamond property. A restaurant, bar, pools, water play area and themed suites add immersive experiences, making the landmark property one more reason for families to enjoy a multiday vacation at the Disneyland Resort.
“The Disneyland Hotel opened in 1955, the same year Disneyland opened,” said Jon Storbeck, vice president, Resort Hotels and Downtown Disney District. “It has greatly expanded over the years, and the latest renovations pay tribute to the shared history of the park and the hotel. We’re proud to be part of the Disney tradition of imaginative storytelling and great guest service and we welcome our guests to Disneyland Resort, a world-class, multi-day tourist destination.”
From the 975 rooms to the retheming of the towers, featuring an energy-efficient, sky-blue reflective glass exterior, the hotel creates a nostalgic family destination that pays tribute to the early days of Disneyland. The Fantasy Tower lobby showcases Mary Blair artwork, creating an instant connection to “it’s a small world.” The Frontier Tower features a scale model of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the lobby. At the Adventure Tower, guests will see Jungle Cruise characters incorporated into the design.
Iconic Dining Locations
Tangaroa Terrace, a “fast casual” restaurant, and Trader Sam’s – Enchanted Tiki Bar take their architectural cues from the original Tahitian Terrace restaurant in Disneyland park and the Polynesian/Tiki architecture that was popular during the early era of the original hotel.
Tangaroa Terrace features Island-inspired fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with items that include cinnamon-spiced oatmeal cakes with Island fruit compote and Kalua pork flatbread, along with a selection of sandwiches, salads and “grab-and-go” items. Guests use an innovative, easy-to-use touch screen to select menu items, which are prepared to order and delivered to their tables either inside or on the large outdoor patio.
Trader Sam’s – Enchanted Tiki Bar, named after Trader Sam, Disney’s Jungle Cruise “Head” Salesman, recounts the story of his worldly travels through the artifacts and memorabilia he collected along the way. The bar features interactive special effects blended with classic Disney storytelling. Trader Sam’s serves a mix of signature cocktails such as the flaming Uh Oa — perfect for sharing —the Hippopotamai Tai and the Mosquito Mojito. The creative appetizer selection includes panko-crusted Chinese long beans and tamarind-glazed Island pork shanks with green papaya slaw.
Rounding out the tropical experience, Trader Sam’s features live music performed on the patio each evening.
Guests also can relax next to a large, outdoor stone fireplace, or enjoy the view of the new Cascade Falls and Old Unfaithful near the Frontier Tower, both reminiscent of the former Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland attraction in Disneyland park.
Immersive Pool Experience
Guests of all ages will enjoy the new, immersive water play area. With a nod to the iconic original park signage, “Disneyland” is spelled out in familiar blocks atop a platform supporting two thrilling water slides. A replica of the original Mark 1 Monorail Cars sits at each slide’s entrance, paying tribute to nostalgic Disneyland. Guests glide through the cars as they twist and turn their way to the water below. The larger of the two main slides sits 26 feet high and stretches 187 feet, until it plunges into a splash pool. The second slide is 13 feet high and 112 feet long. For younger guests, the area includes a third, two-lane mini-slide that sits just 3 ½ feet high and is 19 feet long, as well as a series of small bubble jets in which to play.
No tickets are required at the new D-Ticket and E-ticket pools, which draw their names from the iconic ticket books that were used in the early days of Disneyland to experience attractions.
The four-foot-deep, D-Ticket pool is a shady oasis next to the new Monorail water play area, and the E-Ticket pool is perfect for families, with poolside food and beverage service at select times of the year.
The pool area also features a Minnie Mouse-themed outdoor spa, which matches a Mickey-themed spa. In addition, six new cabanas are available; each features a flat screen TV, refrigerator, safe, phone, and ceiling fan.
Themed Suites
The Disneyland Hotel boasts a unique collection of themed suites including the Mickey Mouse Penthouse and the Pirates of the Caribbean suite. Three exciting, new suites were added as part of the renovation. The Adventureland Suite offers guests a two-bedroom hideaway complete with a grotto in the master bathroom that simulates various settings – including a rain forest and African savanna – through light and sound effects.
The Big Thunder Suite, where up to six pioneers are immersed in luxurious, rustic accommodations, was inspired by Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland park. The Fairy Tale Suite, adorned in colors of sage and champagne, features an exquisite canopy bed as its centerpiece and a hand-cut cut mosaic of a stylized Sleeping Beauty Castle in the bathroom.
Guest Rooms
The beautifully remodeled guest rooms feature exquisite Disney touches woven into the décor. The beds have stunning new headboards with an artistically carved representation of Disneyland park’s famous Sleeping Beauty Castle, which serves as the focal point in each guest room. The background on the headboard uses fiber optics to create a magical skyline with fireworks – bringing the immersive park experience into the room. Guests also will discover a magical touch of music in the rooms, with refrains from the familiar song, “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.”
The new magic at the Disneyland Hotel is part of a recently completed multiyear expansion project which was also highlighted by the creation of new experiences, attractions and nighttime spectaculars in Disney California Adventure park. The project culminated in the summer of 2012 with the opening of Buena Vista Street and the 12-acre Cars Land.
The AAA Four Diamond Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa was expanded in 2009, adding 203 hotel rooms and 50 two-bedroom villas that are part of the Disney Vacation Club, marking the West Coast debut for Disney Vacation Club. At the Paradise Pier Hotel, all rooms were recently remodeled to fit the playful, beach theme.
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Run for a Reason By Laura Weyand
As you all know I recently completed my very first half-marathon this past weekend at Walt Disney World! I not only was able to achieve my number one goal of completion but I ran for a cause! I raised money on my own for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation in order to fight childhood cancer.
What to do:
You can sign up through their website for races and they will take care of your entry fee if you raise a certain amount of money OR you can sign up yourself through www.rundisney.com and set your own goals! I did the second option because it was my first time fundraising and I was unsure of how and what to do! Every dollar counts and it was nice to know that I was helping make a difference no matter how big or small.
How:
I set up a profile through the ALSF (Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation) webpage where people couple click a link and donate. I know others who went out and made a “lemonade stand” in order to donate that money to their efforts. My next race I will truly be more involved. As a part-time worker, full-time student and volunteering my schedule becomes packed but there is always time to make a difference!
Why:
My whole life I was a runner on a track and field team but never independently participated in races. RunDisney was a truly amazing experience. You must pick up your packet and race bib prior to your race at the Expo. If you’re staying on Disney property, they supply transportation to the Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports facility. There are tents and retailers where runners and their families can explore and spend time. Make sure you take time out of your busy vacation schedule to explore the expo it is worth it! You can also purchase official RunDisney merchandise and marathon weekend merchandise as well. I of course had to add some “Half Marathon” merchandise to my closet! There is a lot to see and do.
With the sign up fee includes a Champion brand t-shirt of your event; post race food and beverages and the amazing finisher medal (shown below)! The starting fireworks kick off each corral, meaning each group of runners, and photographers are located throughout the race to capture every memory. I brought my phone to “selfie” around the course which was a great idea but got a little frustrating! Running around the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT all before 9 a.m. is something not many people can say they have done. It is truly an unforgettable experience. The minute I crossed the finish line I was ready to register for next years Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. What’s next for me? More half marathons and who knows? Maybe even a full marathon! Tweet me @lauraweyand with any specific questions on my experience or how to get involved I’d be more than happy to share!
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Plenty of Delicious Dining Options Offer Something for Every Guest at the Disneyland Resort
From fast-casual fare to haute cuisine, the menu of dining options at the Disneyland Resort offers something for every guest. Here, waffles with the Disney characters are as celebrated as the spectacular creations at Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge.
“We offer innovative cuisine from our award-winning chefs that match our guests’ desire for elegant dining,” said Gary Maggetti, director of food and beverage integration at the Disneyland Resort. “But you can still find the Disneyland classics, from the Café Orléans Monte Cristo to Plaza Inn’s fried chicken.”
The rise in fine dining at the Disneyland Resort is often an unexpected delight. At the hotels, top award winners are Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel. A stellar wine program has elevated the quality of dining service throughout the Resort, with trained sommeliers in restaurants including Napa Rose, Steakhouse 55 and Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, and Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge at Disney California Adventure Park.
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‘Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival’ Runs March 13-17, 2015 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Downtown Disney
Award-winning Irish and American bands and quick-stepping Irish dancers will showcase their Irish roots during the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Downtown Disney March 13-17. The most authentic St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Central Florida also will feature inventive cuisine by Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon, host of the TASTE Award-winning PBS and Create TV cooking show, “Kevin Dundon’s Modern Irish Food.”
Raglan Road guests ready to “get their green on” can participate in festivities that run from 4 p.m. until 1:30 a.m. March 13 and from noon until 1:30 a.m. March 14-17, including complimentary face painting for guests, and live music. The diverse band lineup headed by Scythian — playing gypsy-infused American Celtic tunes — offers something for everyone:
- Reel Ó Gránde, the newest Raglan Road house band playing traditional Irish ballads, jigs and reels and modern Irish and country music.
- The West Coast Trio from Connemara, playing traditional and contemporary Irish songs on accordion, flute and guitar with plenty of reels and jigs.
- 3 Dollar Band, three extraordinary musicians inspired by Irish and Appalachian music.
- The Brayzen Heads, a popular duo on guitar and banjo playing Raglan Road regularly.
- Drops of Green, an exciting new ballad group from the heart of Ireland.
- The Raglan Road Dancers, seven full-time champion dancers, performing daily
Guests can visit www.raglanroad.com or call 407/938-0300.
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Disney Agrees to Water Pollutant Measures At Movie Studio Lot
The Walt Disney Company has submitted a settlement to end a six-year-old lawsuit from an environmental watchdog over water pollutant discharges at its motion picture studio lot in Burbank, California.
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Disney Launches Suite of Creative Arts Apps Tied to Disney Imagicademy Learning Brand
Today, the world’s largest publisher of children’s books and apps, Disney Publishing Worldwide, released Mickey’s Magical Arts World, an app that gives children curriculum-based tools to explore creative arts by making and doing. For the first time ever, children can create their own characters and bring them to life in real Disney cartoons alongside Mickey and friends. Children can also experiment with basic music concepts and practice art and design. Grounded in a research-based curriculum, Mickey’s Magical Arts World is available now on the Apple App Store, and is the second of five subjects scheduled for release this year as part of Disney Imagicademy, Disney’s new learning initiative for families with children 3 to 8.
“Following the successful launch of Mickey’s Magical Math World, we are thrilled to introduce the arts to Disney Imagicademy, our flagship learning brand, ” said Jeff Sellinger, senior vice president, Disney Learning. “Families have embraced Disney Imagicademy and the interaction it fosters between kids and parents. We are excited to be launching another cutting-edge product that blends curriculum with technology to make learning a family experience that children can both learn from and enjoy playing with.”
Mickey’s Magical Arts World exposes children to key elements of art and design principles and gives children the ability to personalize their own uniquely Disney-inspired neighborhood with their own characters, drawings, music and architecture. The more the child creates in their neighborhood, the more it comes to life.
Disney Imagicademy was developed in conjunction with academic and education experts to combine a research-driven curriculum with the Disney characters and stories families love. Research has shown that many of the skills critical for 21st century success can be acquired through creative arts curriculum. According to the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities (PCAH), creative arts teach children “how to think outside the box and address challenges with creative solutions.”
“Studies prove that the arts help cultivate not only social skills but cognitive reasoning and critical thinking abilities,” says Amy Kirkland, arts educator and general manager, The Broad Stage Performing Arts Center and one of Disney’s collaborators in developing Disney Imagicademy Mickey’s Magical Arts World. “Disney wants to ensure that arts continue to encourage every child to grow, play and use their imagination beyond their expected capacity, and I think that’s a truly magical thing.”
Disney Imagicademy Mickey’s Magical Arts World provides children with fundamental tools grounded in a wide-ranging creative arts curriculum, and features five experiences in one app:
- Mickey’s Sketch Artist – Children can follow a Mickey-guided tutorial or draw free-style to create characters and more, as they experiment with color, shape, line, and visual texture.
- Donald’s Costume Play – While exploring improvisation, storytelling, costume design, dialogue and character development tools, children can get their characters ready to star in Disney cartoons alongside Mickey and friends.
- Mickey’s Music Maker – Mickey’s marching band will help children create music and experiment with varying tempo and pitch. Featuring 13 different instruments, children can choose the sounds they like best, record their compositions and play back their masterpieces.
- Pluto’s Crafty Creator – Children are invited to six craft stations where they can explore different art tools, experience how materials work together and create and design unique digital toys.
- Minnie’s Art-chitect – As they design buildings with various colors and textures, children can practice key design principles including symmetry, balance, proportion, rhythm, and harmony. Children can customize and design buildings to truly personalize their neighborhood.
Mickey’s Magical Arts World will also connect to the Disney Imagicademy Parents app, giving parents the ability to connect and get involved with their child’s creative arts milestones. The Parents app reinforces the belief that parents are an important part of a child’s learning progress and features tools that give them the ability to see their child’s accomplishments digitally and remotely, as well as content to help them extend the activity and learning beyond the screen.
Mickey’s Magical Arts World and Disney Imagicademy Parents are available on iPad and iPhone on the App Store. Disney Imagicademy’s math-based app, Mickey’s Magical Math World, is available for download on iPad, and will be released for iPhone in March 2015.
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Making Memories by Kim Lawton
I am always looking for ways to share the magic of a Walt Disney World visit or relive favorite vacation moments. I recently tried a craft idea I found on the internet and thought I would share the idea with you. It starts with a glass or plastic fillable ornament. These fillable vessels can be found at your favorite craft store or on line. They come in various sizes and shapes. I used round ones.
For the first idea I wanted to create a special memento for a Cast Member friend of mine. I used a map of the Disney area where we met, cutting areas of the map into strips so that you could still read portions that were of interest, like Luna Park Pool. I cut strips in different widths and lengths. That is what makes this craft so perfect….no rules, it is very individual and each one will be unique.
I then took each strip of paper and twirled it around a pencil to create a curly piece of art! I placed these curly art strips in the fillable ornament. Using as many as I thought made the vessel look distinctive. Once I liked the look, I replaced the top and added a ribbon that coordinated with the paper inside. And voilà I had a gift for my friend. Wouldn’t one made from each park map make a unique set of ornaments? You could even use the attractions you enjoyed most on your tip!
Another idea I saw utilized shells and sand. So my family and I gathered shells and sand on a recent trip together and started crafting. For this idea we added a little glitter to our sand for a little shimmer and put it in the fillable ornament first and then added the shells. The amount of sand and shells is personal preference, again making this the perfect craft for making something quite individual and unique. We did use a drop of glue from my handy glue gun when replacing the top and adorned each with a ribbon.
I am not claiming this as an original idea. I did find it on-line but added my own unique flair just like you can. And while the fillable ornaments are usually found at Christmas time, I did find them for sale on line and some craft stores might carry them year round. I prefer the plastic ones for obvious reasons. I also believe they can be made and used as decor all year long. I have the one containing sand and shells sitting on a table reminding me of time spent walking the beach with my family.
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