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Walt Disney World Resort Guests Are Invited to Celebrate the Fourth of July

Guests can celebrate America’s birthday with a red, white and blue extravaganza at Walt Disney World Resort. There will be no shortage of nighttime fun, as fireworks will dance across the skies above the Florida vacation kingdom. Here’s a look a what’s in store:

Magic Kingdom

The celebration begins with “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky,” July 3 and 4 at Magic Kingdom. The 14-minute fireworks spectacular rockets into the sky above Cinderella Castle at 9 p.m. both nights.

The fireworks are set to an exciting musical score produced in a concert band style. This score was specifically created to stir a sense of pride in being American, show producers say, while at the same time, inviting guests from around the world to feel part of the celebration.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Guests can enjoy the all-new “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks nightly, with the show beginning at a special time of 9:30 p.m. for the holiday weekend, July 3 and 4. 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.

Epcot

Guests visiting Epcot on July 4 will have the opportunity to meet some of their favorite Disney characters dressed in patriotic attire throughout the afternoon at the American Adventure Pavilion. Voices of Liberty, the eight-part a capella group, will have special performances at American Gardens Theatre at 12:30, 1:45 and 3 p.m. They also will perform inside the American Adventure Rotunda at 4:15 and 5 p.m. that day. Guests also will have the opportunity to catch the Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps outside at 1, 2:15, 3:30, 4 and 4:45 p.m.

That evening, the spectacular fireworks and laser show “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” lights the night at 10 p.m. with a heart-pounding grand finale in a salute to America.

Additional Patriotic Entertainment

Other patriotic offerings that guests can enjoy year-round in the parks include indoor attractions that offer shows about the history of America, dining options and entertainment.

Guests at Epcot’s American Adventure Pavilion will find various ways to explore America’s past and present with “We, The People,” a journey through pivotal moments in America’s history narrated by Audio-Animatronic figures of Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain, and “The Kinsey Collection,” an exhibit that showcases 400 years of African-American achievement through rare art, documents, books and artifacts.

At Magic Kingdom, The Hall of Presidents: A Celebration of Liberty’s Leaders gives guests an entertaining lesson in American history. Guests also can get a taste of traditional New England-inspired foods at Liberty Tree Tavern, a restaurant situated in a colonial-style inn that serves lunch and dinner daily. After nightfall, dancing patriots, a stately bald eagle, glittering lights and the patriotic music of the Main Street Electrical Parade all honor America as the parade’s stunning final float lights Main Street, U.S.A. nightly.

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Watch – Epcot B-Roll: Royal Sommerhus at the Norway Pavilion

B-Roll included:

  • Exterior shots of Royal Sommerhus, the meet and greet location for guests to meet Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen
  • Shots of guests meeting Elsa and taking photos with her
  • Shots of guests meeting Anna and taking photos with her

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DISNEY SPRINGS UPDATE – NEW RETAIL LOCATIONS COMING THIS SUMMER!

Disney Springs continues to delight Guests as new additions open throughout the summer.

Today, we’re excited to share that another high-profile brand will join the world-class retail lineup in Town Center: Levi’s. Opening later this summer, the Levi’s Store will offer denim for the entire family. And for Guests who want to have their clothing tailored, the Tailor Shop at the front of the store will allow shoppers to get their favorite shorts, T-shirts, truckers and accessories personalized by a team of craftsmen. This offering is exclusive to just a handful of Levi’s locations worldwide.

Plus, opening in Town Center are Superdry, Sugarboo & Co., Shore, Columbia Sportswear and Coca-Cola Store Orlando, all joining the most recent additions that include LACOSTE, Free People and JOHNNY WAS.

Superdry, a cool British brand, offers high-quality wardrobe staples like jackets, knits, leather goods and leisurewear at affordable prices. Sugarboo & Co., “dealer in whimsy” carries “fine quality art and fanciful goods” – including uplifting art, whimsical paper products and charming home goods. Shore, known for its made-in-America apparel and eclectic branded lifestyle merchandise mix, is opening its second-ever store – the first is based in Sarasota, FL – with plans to offer some limited-edition products available only at Disney Springs. Columbia Sportswear, a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, features rugged and stylish apparel, footwear and equipment that’s “tested tough.” And, Coca-Cola Store Orlando, a completely immersive retail destination, allows guests to experience the world most iconic beverage brand in a building modeled after a 1920s bottling plant.

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TOP TEN CAN’T-MISS EXPERIENCES AT DISNEYLAND RESORT THIS SUMMER

From a new live stage show to all-new attractions, there’s so much for guests to experience at the Disneyland® Resort this summer! Here are ten experiences they won’t want to miss.

  • The new “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion” immerses Disney California Adventure® Park Guests in the emotional story of Anna and Elsa in an exciting theatrical interpretation for the stage, including elaborate costumes and sets, stunning special effects, show-stopping production numbers and some unique surprises.
  • On Soarin’ Around the World at Disney California Adventure® Park, guests can take flight on an all-new adventure to exciting destinations.
  • The fun-filled Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters, new in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park, is rolling with fun as Luigi’s cugini (or family) have come from Carsoli, Italy, to help celebrate Race Day in Radiator Springs. Guests can join in the fun by hopping aboard miniature Italian roadsters, in the style of late 1950s micro cars. The cars perform the traditional dances of their village, moving to upbeat music and Luigi’s singing in a precision-choreographed dance across a trackless “dance floor.”
  • In Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park, Star Wars Launch Bay invites Guests to discover authentic replicas of film props and encounter Star Wars characters such as Chewbacca and Kylo Ren.
  • The Star Wars-themed transformation of Space Mountain into Hyperspace Mountain thrusts guests into an X-wing battle as they race through the darkness. The experience is enhanced by a new soundtrack, inspired by the Star Wars films’ musical themes and re-orchestrated to match every move in the attraction.
  • At Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, guests can encounter a new adventure and characters from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” while journeying aboard a Starspeeder 1000.
  • Make sure you don’t miss the chance to see the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration dazzle and shine before the celebration ends Sept. 5, 2016.
  • The sparkling “Paint the Night” parade builds on the tradition of breathtaking nighttime parades in Disneyland park that began with the “Main Street Electrical Parade.” Illuminated almost entirely by LED lights, “Paint the Night” is a state-of-the art, vibrant wonder that immerses Guests in the magical, luminescent worlds of many Disney and Disney●Pixar characters.
  • The “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular entertains Guests from the tips of their toes to the sky high above, surrounding the audience with music, dazzling visual projections and other special effects that bring the pyrotechnics to life in surprising new ways. Your Clients may enjoy the projections from multiple locations, including Main Street, U.S.A., and “it’s a small world” mall.
  • At Disney California Adventure® Park, “World of Color – Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney” is a fun-filled version of the popular, nighttime “World of Color” spectacular. Award-winning actor Neil Patrick Harris joins Mickey Mouse on a magical water canvas, bringing to life the remarkable story of Walt Disney and The Happiest Place on Earth with animated imagery, live-action film, fountains, lasers, special effects and a stirring musical score.

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Walt Disney Records To Release The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack From “The BFG”

The talents of three of the world’s greatest storytellers – Roald Dahl, Walt Disney and Steven Spielberg – finally unite to bring Dahl’s beloved classic “The BFG” to life.  “The BFG” tells the imaginative story of a young girl and the Giant who introduces her to the wonders and perils of Giant Country.  The score was composed and conducted by Oscar-winning composer John Williams.  The BFG soundtrack from Walt Disney Records will be available at physical and digital retailers, plus streaming services on July 1, 2016.  “The BFG” opens in U.S. theaters on July 1, 2016, the year that marks the 100th anniversary of Dahl’s birth.

Directed by three-time Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg from a screenplay by Melissa Mathison based on the best-selling book by Roald Dahl, “The BFG” stars three-time Tony Award®, two-time Olivier Award and Oscar winner Mark Rylance, newcomer Ruby Barnhill, Penelope Wilton, Jemaine Clement, Rebecca Hall, Rafe Spall and Bill Hader.  The film is produced by Spielberg, Frank Marshall and Sam Mercer, with Kathleen Kennedy, John Madden, Kristie Macosko Krieger and Michael Siegelserving as executive producers.

John Williams, whose career spans over five decades, has won five Academy Awards and he has scored some of the most popular and critically acclaimed films of all time, including all seven “Star Wars” films, the first three “Harry Potter” films, and countless others.  His 42-year artistic partnership with director Steven Spielberg has resulted in many of Hollywood’s most acclaimed and successful films, including “Schindler’s List,” “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “Jaws,” “Jurassic Park,” “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” the “Indiana Jones” films, “Munich,” “Saving Private Ryan,” “War Horse” and “Lincoln.”

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Review: Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois by Sean Pollock

Going into my relationship with my girlfriend, I could tell that there were many differences in the ways we were brought up. Most notably of which was the issue of Disney Parks versus Six Flags. She was surprised that it had been about 11 years since my last trip to Disneyworld, and I was surprised that she had never been to a Six Flags park. We each did the right thing and helped the other experience an integral part of our childhood enjoyment.

However, it wasn’t just the difference of which theme parks we went to as kids that set us apart, but also the methodology of which we took the trip. Her family had a very leisurely way of doing Disney, which involved staying at one of the many resorts in Orlando and getting Park Hopper passes for the whole trip. My trips were taken over the course of one day, taking every precaution to minimize cost and jam pack as much activity into the time frame as humanly possible. This was the approach that I tried to implement in our recent adventure to Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois.

To start, I thought I would quickly list off some tips I have for a Six Flags daytrip. We had the fortune of planning our visit on a Monday in the hopes of beating any large crowds that often gather on weekends. We left at 7:00 am to make the 3 and a half hour drive to the park that opens at 10:30. We showed up early so as to secure a parking spot close to the entrance. We packed our own food and snacks to leave in the car. By doing this, we could exit, eat and reenter without spending money on food inside. Simple things like fresh fruits, peanut butter sandwiches and chips work perfectly. We carefully scoped out lines all over the park and picked the ones that would have a reasonable wait time. We picked the overcast parts of the day to wait in lines with less shade. All these actions helped to optimize our time, and I’m sure they will do the same for you.

That being said, it’s time to talk about the park itself. Without a doubt the biggest attraction there right now is Goliath. This new wooden roller coaster recently set 3 different records, including for longest and steepest drop. This was our first coaster of the day, and the line was stretching even out of the front gate of the ride. We were surprised at how quickly the line progressed, so much that we only waited about 20 minutes for what we thought would be a 45 minute wait. It was an insane experience that actually turned out to be her favorite of the day. This thriller is a must try for everybody this summer, but only if you have what it takes to conquer the giant.

We then went on to experience all the other roller coasters of the park, including the old mainstays such as American Eagle, Batman, Raging Bull (my personal favorite) and many others. Our focus this trip was trying out every roller coaster, and we definitely managed that in one day. Now trying to fit in all the other rides in that span is a bit of a tall order, so maybe we’ll save that for another time. If you were planning on trying out every ride in one day, it would probably be in your best interest to invest in a Flash Pass, especially if you go on a weekend. It really comes in handy in the afternoon when most lines are longer.

The park closes at 8 pm, but after an eventful day, we decided to beat the rush and left at 7:30. The tradition in my childhood is that the entire group would go to a nice restaurant for dinner before making the drive home. We were fortunate enough to discover Mama K’s Pizza and Grille a mere 3 minute drive from the parking lot and had a tasty and affordable meal in a family friendly environment with a great atmosphere. Thus was a perfect punctuation on a fun and thrill packed day.

To plan your Six Flags experience at any of the 18 locations, go to www.sixflags.com. Season passes and discounts are also available now for the 4th of July weekend. Also coming up in September and October is Fright Fest, where huge scares and deals on admission can be found every weekend. Go online and plan your trip today!

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FRONTERA COCINA NOW OPEN AT DISNEY SPRINGS

Frontera Cocina, the newest dining experience to join the lineup at Disney Springs™, is now open!

Located in Town Center, Frontera Cocina features exciting flavors and a contemporary Mexican experience developed by renowned Chef Rick Bayless.

Chef Bayless offers his award-winning taste of dishes such as Oaxacan Red Chile Chicken, Salsa Verde Shrimp Enchiladas Suizas and freshly made salsas and guacamole. There’s also a quick-service taco counter.

Chef Bayless created his Frontera franchise in Chicago in 1981. His other notable restaurants include Xoco, Frontera Grill, Toplobampo, Leña Brava and Cruz Blanca. He may be best known for winning the title of Bravo TV’s “Top Chef Masters,” but his national Public Television Series, “Mexico–One Plate at a Time,” is in its 10th season. He’s won multiple awards from the James Beard Foundation, including the foundation’s highest award, Outstanding Restaurant, for Frontera Grill in 2007. He also won two for his cookbooks, Midwest Chef of the Year, National Chef of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year and Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America.

Frontera Cocina is a welcome addition to the diverse dining lineup at Disney Springs!

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2016 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL NARRATORS ANNOUNCED & DINING PACKAGES NOW AVAILABLE

It’s never too early for some holiday cheer! And today, we’re excited to announce that dining packages for 2016 Candlelight Processional are now on sale.

As a part of Holidays Around the World at Epcot®, this favorite Walt Disney World® Resort holiday tradition presents the story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir.

Celebrity narrators this year include some returning favorites like contemporary Christian music singer Steven Curtis Chapman, actors Whoopi Goldberg and Neil Patrick Harris and newcomers like legendary baseball player Cal Ripken, Jr. Here’s the list of confirmations we have so far:*

  • 11/25-27 – Steven Curtis Chapman
  • 11/28-12/1 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • 12/2-12/3 – Whoopi Goldberg
  • 12/4-12/12 – TBA
  • 12/13-12/15 – Meredith Vieira
  • 12/16-12/18 – TBA
  • 12/19-12/21 – Joe Morton
  • 12/22-12/27 – TBA
  • 12/28-12/30 – Cal Ripken, Jr.

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the American Gardens Theatre. These packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.

This year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite Epcot restaurants like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk.

Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $27 plus tax per person for adults and $14 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $47 plus tax per person for adults and $20 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.

‘Holidays Around the World’ is an extravaganza of holiday entertainment, merchandise, food, beverages and festivities where guests can celebrate at Epcot throughout the holiday season. Time-honored traditions come alive through the sights and sounds of the countries of World Showcase; and live musical performances enliven the park throughout the day.

Book a Candlelight Processional dining package for your Clients by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or visit Disneyworld.com/dine.

Holidays Around the World, including the Candlelight Processional, run November 25 – December 30, 2016 at Epcot. Stay tuned to Disney Travel News for the latest updates.

*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. Theme park admission is required. There is no 5 p.m. show on 12/4.

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Coca-Cola Store Orlando Invites Guests to Shop Refreshed at Disney Springs

Coca-Cola Store Orlando opens July 2 at Disney Springs, allowing guests to experience the world’s most iconic beverage brand at a new immersive retail destination. Just as Disney Springs is a one-of-a-kind Disney experience delivering great dining, shopping and entertainment, Coca-Cola Store Orlando is uniquely designed to showcase Coca-Cola branded merchandise and entertaining experiences that inspire the senses.

Coca-Cola_Store_Orlando_exterior

Coca-Cola Store Orlando is modeled after a 1920s Coca-Cola bottling plant. Celebrating the history of Coca-Cola, the inviting brick exterior gives a nod to the brand’s heritage while the glass-accented entry pays tribute to the iconic Coca-Cola green glass bottle. Inside, guests are welcomed by a 30-foot-wide blown-glass chandelier crafted from repurposed Coca-Cola bottles – just one example of how this unique retail experience was designed with the environment in mind. The store – one of only three retail locations operated by The Coca-Cola Company in the United States – features a broad assortment of Coca-Cola branded merchandise. A line of sustainable fashion apparel and other handmade items crafted from recycled materials showcase the 5by20™ collection – an array of items created by women artisans from around the world.

Guests can visit the refreshing rooftop beverage bar and taste an ice-cold Coca-Cola while taking in the sights of Disney Springs. For the ultimate Coke experience, guests can choose from a variety of Coca-Cola brands from around the world such as Beverly from Italy and Thums Up from India, frozen beverages and over 100 drink choices via Coca-Cola Freestyle®. A selection of specialty adult beverages is available in the evenings.

“Coca-Cola shares much in common with Disney, including our ability to inspire unique moments of optimism and happiness for our fans,” said Russell Jacobs, General Manager of Retail and Attractions at The Coca-Cola Company.

Stefanie Miller, Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnership Marketing added, “We’ve been a proud partner of The Walt Disney Company since 1942, and both brands hold a special place in people’s hearts and minds. Now we’re raising a glass to Coca-Cola Store Orlando, where Disney and Coca-Cola fans alike can truly ‘Taste the Feeling.’”

Beginning in August, guests can share a moment with the famous Coca-Cola Polar Bear. Bear hugs, high fives and photos will all be welcome!

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How ‘Finding Dory’ Pre-Show Short ‘Piper’ Bypassed the Pixar Pipeline

If you want to make a short at Pixar, the studio offers a special program where resident artists — those who work anywhere in the company — have the chance to pitch three ideas to a panel of directors. But “Piper” skipped that step entirely, in part because it grew out of an experiment Alan Barillaro was conducting in his spare time.

Full Story

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