Frozen Ever After takes guests through the kingdom of Arendelle from the Disney animated hit, ‘Frozen.’ Located in the Norway Pavilion at Epcot, Frozen Ever After celebrates a ‘Summer Snow Day’ on a journey through a frozen willow forest, past Troll Valley and up to Queen Elsa’s palace high up on the north mountain. Epcot is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (David Roark, photographer)
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Photos – Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The new nightly Star Wars fireworks show, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” combines fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that turn the nearby Chinese Theater and other buildings at Disney’s Hollywood Studios into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, Starkiller Base and other Star Wars destinations. The show also features a tower of fire and spotlight beams, creating massive lightsabers in the sky. (Gregg Newton, photographer)
CHEF ART’S HOMECOMING NOW OPEN AT DISNEY SPRINGS
Guests can dig into delectable farm-to-fork cuisine showcasing Florida’ fresh flavors at Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, now open at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World® Resort. This new dining location features feel-good favorites such as deviled eggs, fried chicken and the restaurant’s signature Shine Cake – all crafted from recipes by award-winning celebrity chef, Chef Art Smith.

After dinner, guests can stroll through the beautiful new retails shops at Disney Springs. Reservations open July 21, 2016 and can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
New Vinyl Single From Star Wars Headspace Set For Release At Star Wars Celebration Europe On July 15
A selection of collectible Disney Music Group products will be available at the official Lucasfilm festival that celebrates all things Star Wars. Star Wars Celebration Europe 2016 comes to the ExCeL London Exhibition Centre, Celebration July 15 – 17.
First-to-market at Celebration is the new vinyl single from the Hollywood Records and American Recordings compilation, Star Wars Headspace, executive produced and curated by visionary GRAMMY Award®-winning producer Rick Rubin. The 10″ vinyl single features the track “Jabba Flow: Rick Rubin Re-work (Feat. A-Trak)” by Shag Kava on both sides with Kylo Ren and BB-8 character images.
Additional collectible titles include Star Wars: The Force Awakens Soundtrack 2-LP Hologram Vinyl with one-of-a-kind 3D holograms of the Millennium Falcon and TIE Fighter; Star Wars: The Force Awakens Soundtrack Picture Disc (Kylo Ren, Han Solo, Finn and Rey character images); and BB-8 Picture Disc 10″ vinyl (“March of the Resistance”/”Rey’s Theme”), all featuring music by Oscar-winning composer John Williams.
The Star Wars: The Force Awakens 2-LP hologram soundtrack, Star Wars: The Force Awakens Soundtrack Picture Disc, and BB-8 10″ vinyl are all available at Disney Music Emporium, the destination for collectible Disney music products.
For more information on Walt Disney Records’ releases, like us on Facebook.com/disneymusic or follow us atTwitter.com/disneymusic. For more information on Disney Music Emporium, please visit DisneyMusicEmporium.com, become a fan at Facebook.com/disneymusicemporium or follow us at Twitter.com/DisneyMusicEmp.
Disney’s Top Rated Movies
Disney Studios is just a few years shy of its centennial, and its astounding impact on family entertainment remains unmatched. So many kids were introduced to the very concept of movies through a Disney release.
Disney taps SoundHound’s virtual assistant to help guests navigate its theme parks
SoundHound Inc. has been tapped by the Walt Disney Company to use its Hound’s iOS and Android virtual assistant to help theme park guests. With this pilot program, you’ll be able to navigate your way through Disneyland or Disney World by using your voice and saying “OK Hound.”
UNIQLO Opens Special Concept Store in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort English
UNIQLO is pleased to celebrate the launch of its newest store location in the U.S. this Friday, July 15, in Town Center at Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. UNIQLO opens its doors at 10 a.m. to the sounds of a Japanese Taiko drum performance, welcoming customers to an experience they will long remember.
“Opening our UNIQLO store at Disney Springs is a dream come true for us,” said Hiroshi Taki, CEO of UNIQLO USA. “We look forward to introducing a new and unique shopping experience, unlike any other UNIQLO store in the world, with special products, Japanese-inspired merchandise and family-fun activities for both locals and vacationers. We hope every day will feel like opening day for our customers.”
UNIQLO at Disney Springs will be the company’s first store in the Southeast region. Upon entering the 25,000 square-foot (2,300-square-meter) store, customers are introduced to the brand’s full assortment of LifeWear: innovative, high-quality clothing that is universal in design and comfort and made for anyone, anywhere. The walls of the first floor are lined by such core products as Supima Cotton T-shirts, Dry Pique Polo Shirts, and Premium Linen Shirts, in a variety of colors and styles for any occasion. Walking farther into the store, customers see special concept corners unique to UNIQLO at Disney Springs that bring the brand’s Japanese heritage to life, alongside an assortment of Disney-inspired products.
The second floor opens to a room dedicated to the athletic wear worn by UNIQLO’s Global Brand Ambassadors, including men’s World No.1 singles tennis player Novak Djokovic and top golfer Adam Scott. Also featured are men’s and women’s innerwear products such as AIRism, made with cooling technology, and socks piled high in 50 colors. A wall of UTs (UNIQLO T-shirts) highlighting designs by modern artists, and casual wear for men, women, kids, and babies make up the rest of the floor.
Japanese Heritage:
Exclusive Japanese “omiyage” (souvenir) items are available for purchase, including silk folding fans, uchiwa fans, paper samurai costumes and Buddha boards. Themes from “Kabuki,” a classical performing art in Japan, are featured on UTs, and Yukatas – light cotton kimonos – are available for women and girls. In addition, the store windows highlight artfully-folded paper exhibits by artists Mr. Edmund Ooi and Mr. Shin Tanaka, and in-store daily activities include origami and calligraphy lessons.
Exclusive Products:
An assortment of products are sold exclusively at the UNIQLO store at Disney Springs and at the Uniqlo.com online store, featuring iconic Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, as well as “city” T-Shirts including Orlando, Florida. The store also sells exclusive Disney-themed patches, which can be ironed onto any UNIQLO item of clothing on the spot as a complimentary service.
Customers can share their excitement about the new UNIQLO store via the company’s social media channels Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #UniqloDisneySprings.
Opening Weekend Events, July 15 – 17:
Sales Promotions from July 15 to July 24
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Women’s Chino Micro Shorts |
$14.90 (from $19.90) |
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Women’s Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt |
$19.90 (from $29.90) |
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Women’s Supima Cotton Tank Top |
$7.90 (from $9.90) |
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Women’s Supima Cotton Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-shirt |
$7.90 (from $9.90) |
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Women’s Supima Cotton V-neck Short Sleeve T-shirt |
$7.90 (from $9.90) |
|
Men’s Chino Shorts |
$19.90 (from $29.90) |
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Men’s Linen Cotton Short Sleeve Shirt |
$19.90 (from $29.90) |
|
Men’s Swim Active Shorts |
$19.90 (from $29.90) |
Activities
1. UNIQLO Prize Wheel
On July 15, customers have the chance to win prizes ranging from UTs (UNIQLO T-shirts) and AIRism innerwear products, to store gift cards, and a trip for two to Tokyo, Japan.
2. Origami and Calligraphy Lessons
Customers are invited to join Japanese origami and calligraphy lessons with professional artists every Saturday and Sunday, with an extended schedule during Opening Weekend running from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 16, and11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 17.
3. Calligraphy Demonstrations
Calligraphy demonstrations by artist Ms. Aoi Yamaguchi take place in front of the store on Opening Day, July 15, at 6:15 p.m. and7:35 p.m.
4. Taiko Drum Performances
Taiko Project performs in front of the store on July 15, at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
5. Kendama Performances
Kendama – a traditional Japanese wooden toy with three cups, a spike and a ball – performances take place in front of the store on July 15, at 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.
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Name: |
UNIQLO at Disney Springs |
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Opening Date: |
10 a.m. Friday, July 15 |
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Operating Hours: |
10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Sunday |
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Address: |
1674 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830 |
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Floor Space: |
Approximately 25,000 square feet (2,300 square meters) across two floors. |
Walt Disney World Resort Launches Summer Vacation Season with Magical Premieres in All Four Parks
An incredible lineup of new attractions and experiences kickoff summer vacation season with new magic across all four Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney Springs and beyond.
Guests are invited to set sail on the all-new Frozen Ever After attraction to celebrate a “Summer Snow Day” with all of the favorite “Frozen” friends aboard a Norwegian vessel travelling through Arendelle. And, guests can meet Anna and Elsa in Royal Sommerhus, with authentically Norwegian-inspired settings all in the Norway Pavilion at Epcot.
The fun heats up with a brand new nighttime experience that awakens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks show that is themed to music from the film saga and incorporates stunning new lasers and other special effects.
Guests also can experience the enhanced Soarin’ Around the World attraction at Epcot and the star-studded new stage show “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” at Magic Kingdom Park.
More Magic, More Memories, More Fun
Across its four theme parks, multiple resort hotels and diverse shopping and dining offerings, guests will find unforgettable experiences to share with family and friends at Walt Disney World Resort, making every moment as magical as it can be:
Epcot
Anna, Elsa and other beloved characters from the blockbuster film, “Frozen,” will give the summer season a warm hug at Epcot. Meanwhile “Turtle Talk with Crush” makes fun waves and Soarin’ Around the World takes guests to new heights.
- Anna, Elsa and their “Frozen” friends are welcoming guests aboard the new Frozen Ever After boat ride that sails into a “Frozen” world at the Norway Pavilion. Passengers glide along and visit Queen Elsa’s ice palace and hear beloved film tunes plus new lyrics by Oscar-winning “Let It Go” songwriters Bobby Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez.
- Also at the Norway Pavilion, Anna and Elsa now greet guests in the new Royal Sommerhus, themed as a cozy summer cabin.
- In Future World, guests can take a glide on the expanded Soarin’ Around the World attraction at The Land Pavilion. Now with a third Epcot theater, plus new digital screens and projection systems, the enhanced attraction takes guests on an exhilarating “flight” above spectacular global landscapes and man-made wonders.
- Guests can now find new additions at “Turtle Talk with Crush” with characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory”. When Crush the sea turtle swims up to the “Human Tank” at Epcot, he’s joined by Dory and some of her new friends.
Magic Kingdom
Classic Disney characters will join contemporary animated film stars in a new extravaganza on the grand Cinderella Castle stage, and Magic Kingdom guests can experience a new dining adventure.
- For the first time, Tiana of “Princess and the Frog,” and Rapunzel of “Tangled,” co-star with Anna and Elsa of “Frozen,” and a host of favorite Disney characters in the new Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire. Performed on the grandest stage in the kingdom, the star-studded tale of friendship presents Mickey Mouse and his troupe of Merry Makers – Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Goofy – who invite 10 new friends from different animated worlds to join the celebration. This “timeless fairytale” of a show combines grand dance, fireworks and stunts with memorable music, an original song and special effects.
- Disney Parks will welcome Elena of Avalor, Disney’s first princess inspired by diverse Latin cultures. Elena of Avalor will appear at Walt Disney World Resort later this summer and at Disneyland Resort in the fall, following her television debut in a new animated series this summer on Disney Channel.
- Next door to the legendary Jungle Cruise, guests can enjoy the bold flavors of “World Famous Jungle Cuisine” served by the wisecracking crew of the new Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen. It’s the first Disney full-service restaurant themed after a specific park attraction.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
In the galactic wake of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, new Star-Wars-themed experiences shift into light speed.
- The next generation of Star Wars-themed fireworks shows, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” dazzles with new themed fireworks, lasers, special effects and video projections of iconic characters and scenes from the complete saga, all set to the unforgettable score of the film series.
- The live stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away” celebrates iconic moments from the Star Wars saga with live vignettes featuring popular characters such as BB-8, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and Darth Maul.
- First Order Stormtroopers led by Captain Phasma march from Star Wars Launch Bay to the park’s Center Stage, adding menace to the entertainment. Star Wars Launch Bay showcases large-scale artifacts and encounters with characters including Kylo Ren. The re-imagined Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple experience also features new characters. And at Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, guests buckle up for an enhanced high-speed journey with new Star Wars: The Force Awakens characters and a visit to Jakku.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
For the first time in its 18-year history, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will debut new day-into-nighttime experiences that celebrate the magic of nature.
- The park’s iconic Tree of Life awakens each night amid a lively celebration of Discovery Island music and dance. Through stunning visuals, animal spirits appear and enchanted fireflies reveal stories of wonder as the tree morphs to showcase the magic of nature.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris transitions to a new nighttime adventure in the extended orange glow of a setting sun. For the first time, hyenas and African wild dogs join the safari trail creature feature.
- Discovery River becomes the stage for music and pageantry in a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney’s hit live-action film The Jungle Book. The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic is a live show filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence.
- Hungry adventurers can have lunch or dinner at the new Tiffins signature restaurant on Discovery Island. Guests seated in the restaurant’s travel-themed dining rooms or on the waterfront patio can sip libations and savor dishes featuring African, Asian and South American flavors.
- Across the park, guests can experience wondrous new nighttime experiences and entertainment celebrating marvels in nature and enjoy long-time favorites such as Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Kali River Rapids and more – in a whole new light.
Disney Springs and Disney’s Water Parks Make a Splash
Inspired by Florida’s waterfront towns and natural beauty, Disney Springs is a charming district filled with unique retailers and restaurants from award-winning chefs. Throughout the summer, new stores and restaurants will open as Disney Springs more than doubles the number of retail, dining and other venues for guests.
- As Disney Springs continues to expand and diversify its dining, shopping and entertainment, more exciting high-profile tenants are coming onboard, including Anthropologie, Under Armour, kate spade new york, Sephora and Lucky Brand, among others. Other new shops opening in 2016 include Zara, Tommy Bahama and UNIQLO.
- More than 30 new tenants will be coming to Disney Springs this summer, including retail shops and dining venues.
- Home to world-class dining, Disney Springs is shaping up to be a culinary dream. With many unique flavors, there is something for all different tastes with exquisite selections such as STK, Frontera Cocina and Morimoto Asia.
- More new eateries are gearing up to open in the coming year, including Homecoming – Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar by Chef Art Smith; Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, a modern-day “pizza joint” with artisanal pies; and the reimagined, Planet Hollywood Observatory with new outdoor terrace and live entertainment.
- Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless (Frontera Cocina) and Chef Art Smith (Homecoming) join master Chef Masaharu Morimoto in a growing collection of James Beard Award winning chefs at Disney Springs.
- At Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba,” the new B-Boys hip-hop, breakdancing threesome showcases a rare mix of rhythm, strength and “how-did-they-do-that?” moves. As part of the show’s ongoing evolution, the masterful Aerial Bamboo act joins recent additions of madcap clowns and a breathtaking rolla bolla juggling act.
Meanwhile, Disney’s Water Parks ramp up with playful spirits and summer fun faster than Olaf can beg for warm hugs.
- At Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, Olaf from Disney’s animated hit “Frozen,” will be living his “In Summer” dream as he and Kristoff host the “Frozen Games” of friendly, fun competitions that run through Aug. 21.
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park castaways can splash down on a sandy summer beach with a cold ale and savory snack after a wild slide on Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.
Disney guests will have a magical summer experience wherever they play, dine, relax or celebrate at Walt Disney World theme parks, entertainment venues and resort hotels. For more information about Walt Disney World Resort, visit www.disneyworld.com and www.disneyparksblog.com.
EARLY MORNING MAGIC AVAILABLE AT DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS BEGINNING AUGUST 1
As we shared a few months ago, Disney Early Morning Magic at Magic Kingdom® Park gives guests the opportunity to be among the first to experience theme park attractions and breakfast inside the park. And today, we’re excited to share that not only has Disney Early Morning Magic been extended through Sept. 30, 2016 at Magic Kingdom Park, but it will soon be offered at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® as well.
Beginning Aug. 1, 2016 a select number of Walt Disney World® Guests can experience Disney Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests can experience Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Toy Story Mania!, Pixar Place character greetings (with Woody and Buzz), and Mickey and Minnie on Commissary Lane and Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight – all with little to no wait before the park opens. And to get fueled up for the rest of the day, they can partake in a hearty all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast at ABC Commissary from 8-10 a.m. Disney Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios takes place Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:45-10 a.m.

Please note Disney Early Morning Magic will be offered on different days than Extra Magic Hours. Disney Early Morning Magic requires a separate ticket – $69 for adults and $59 for children ages 3-9 (plus tax), in addition to regular theme park admission.
The number of tickets available for each morning is limited, so be sure to visit DisneyWorld.com/EarlyMorning Magic
Valid Theme Park admission and separately priced special event tickets are required. Special event ticket are valid only during specific event dates and hours. Attractions and offerings are subject to change without notice.
More than 35 Central Florida Youth Soccer Teams Set to Compete in Disney Cup International
Thirty-eight teams from Central Florida will lace up and compete in this year’s Disney Cup International tournament (July 11-17) at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Youth soccer teams from Apopka to Oviedo will go head-to-head against teams from around the world, with 22 of those Central Florida teams participating in the highest-level competition brackets. Starting Monday, more than 180 boys and girls teams (8-under to 19-under), representing 20 countries such as Brazil, Panama, Palestine, Trinidad & Tobago and Venezuela will compete in more than 740 games in this weeklong event. Pool play begins Monday, 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. and continues through Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Semifinals are held Saturday (8 a.m.-6 p.m), with the tournament culminating in the championship rounds on Sunday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
| Age Group | Group Full Name | Location | Time |
| Boys U11 | MANASOTA YS LIONS | Field 27A | 1:15 p.m. |
| Boys U19 | PORT ST JOHN UNITED 9697 | Field 21 | 8 a.m. |
| Boys U19 | GOU INTER USA 97 | Field 21 | 8 a.m. |
| Boys U13 | OSCEOLA ASSAULT RED | Field 17 | 1:15 p.m. |
| Boys U19 | OSCEOLA ASSAULT SC LACED UP | Field 19 | 9:45 a.m. |
| Boys U17 | ACYS SPIRIT UNITED B98/99 BLUE | Field 24 | 9:45 a.m. |
| Boys U10 | TORREMAR | Field 22C | 9:45 a.m. |
| Boys U11 | TORREMAR | Field 20A | 1:15 p.m. |
| Boys U16 | SOUTH ORLANDO SC 9900 GREEN | Field 28 | 9:45 a.m. |
| Boys U9 | COSTA DEL ESTE 1 | Field 26A | 8 a.m. |
| Boys U13 | TORREMAR | Field 21 | 11:30 a.m. |
| Boys U9 | GPS FL ELITE 2007 | Field 26A | 8 a.m. |
| Boys U10 | GPS FL ELITE BOYS 2006 | Field 21C | 9:45 a.m. |
| Boys U11 | GPS FL ELITE BOYS 2005 | Field 20A | 1:15 p.m. |
| Boys U12 | GPS FL ELITE BOYS 2004 | Field 27A | 9:45 a.m. |
| Boys U13 | GPS FL ELITE BOYS 2003 | Field 21 | 11:30 a.m. |
| Boys U14 | GPS FL ELITE 2002 | Field 24 | 1:15 p.m. |
| Boys U15 | GPS FL ELITE BOYS 2001 | Field 23 | 11:30 a.m. |
| Boys U17 | CROWN TRACE FC | Field 23 | 9:45 a.m. |
| Boys U17 | FKK 98 FLORIDA KRAZE BLACK | Field 19 | 8 a.m. |















