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Mickey and Minnie’s All New Date Ideas for the Month of Love in 2016 at Walt Disney World Resort

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, love and romance are in the air at Walt Disney World. Guests can celebrate this month of love near the most famous couple of all, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

A variety of offerings and memorable experiences are available all month long – from Valentine’s Day merchandise and special entertainment to romantic dinners for two. With so many of Cupid’s arrows flying about, guests should be sure to book early and perhaps celebrate their love any time during this sweet month of February.

1. A romantic ride on Italian Water Taxi Cruise/VIP Wine Tour – Guests can experience the unforgettable romance of an intimate cruise aboard Venezia, the breathtaking 40-ft Italian Water Taxi. Couples will relax and unwind to beautiful Italian music, savor award-winning wines and feast on an array of delicious hors d’oeuvres. The BOATHOUSE’S trusted captain and crew take guests on a whimsical water journey through the waters of Lake Buena Vista and the gorgeous scenic riverway. Sweetheart Wine Tasting Cruises embark Friday. Call 407-939-2628 to make a reservation.

2. The new Ferrytale Wishes: A Fireworks Dessert Cruise – Couples can take in a breathtaking view of the Magic Kingdom Park night time fireworks from an exclusive and romantic spot on Seven Seas Lagoon with desserts and drinks. Guests can enjoy this sweet ending to their day, before watching the “Wishes” nighttime spectacular overhead, the largest fireworks show at Walt Disney World Resort. The medley of famous Disney songs and the voices of Disney characters are piped through the boat’s sound system for this magical viewing. For reservations, visit com/DINE or call 407-WDW-DINE. Anchors Aweigh!

3. The new Brunch at the Top at California Grill – Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday and the Brunch at the Top is a fabulous way to indulge. Chef Brian Piasecki’s team launches a whole new menu in February to showcase their fresh, market-driven cuisine. Of course a glass of bubbly or wine (the restaurant has more than 1,600 bottles on display) pairs nicely. And there’s an over-the-top Bloody Mary Bar as well as cocktails and craft brews (though guests can also stick with the custom-roast French press coffee). Reservations can be made by visiting com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

4. An out-of-this-world evening – Sweets and stars collide at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as guests look to the sky January 5 – March 19, for a special viewing of the Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks. Guests enjoy a selection of sweets as the night sky erupts with an arsenal of impressive fireworks, set to the most dramatic and memorable Star Wars themes of all time. On the menu are Star Wars-themed desserts treats, including the popular Droid and Darth Vader cupcakes and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. For reservations, visit DisneyWorld.com/dine or call 407-WDW-DINE.

5. Disney Springs shopping spree – Disney Springs continues to expand and transform with all new shopping options. The World of Disney in Disney Springs Marketplace recently expanded with an additional 6,000 sq. feet of retail selling space. Couples can spend the day searching for some new Disney merchandise to celebrate their love for each other … and Disney. Nothing says “love” like chocolate so the shopping spree can continue with a stop for some handcrafted sweets at The Ganachery. Or perhaps couples are looking for an all-vegan treat? Erin McKenna Bakery NYC is a unique bakery with savory offerings and an all-vegan and gluten-free menu.

6. Minnie’s Silver Screen Dine at Hollywood & Vine – Just in time for Academy Awards season, Minnie Mouse and her friends celebrate the magic of the movies and glamour of Hollywood with an epic feast at the new Minnie’s Silver Screen Dine at Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Dinner guests will walk the red carpet and get ready for their close-up with some of the biggest stars of the silver screen, beloved Disney characters dressed in their designer best. Minnie’s Silver Screen Dine runs from Jan. 4 to March 20, 2016. Reservations can be made by visiting com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

7. All new acts at La Nouba at Disney Springs – La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary and stimulates the imagination from beginning to end with daring acrobatics, dazzling choreography, vibrant music and whimsical characters only at Disney Springs. As part of the show’s ongoing evolution, La Nouba continues to bring new acts: B-Boy, commonly referred to as breakdancing, and Aerial Bamboo, a technique mastered by only a handful of performers worldwide. The acts join the recent additions of uproarious clowns and a breathtaking juggling rolla bolla act. For more information about La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil, visit DisneyWorld.com/entertainment.

8. Sushi Bar at Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs – Morimoto Asia is a one-of-a-kind dining experience from Chef Masaharu Morimoto. From Feb. 12 – 14, a special Valentine’s Day romantic dinner for two includes a four course, prix-fixe menu starring Chef Morimoto’s signature Peking Duck for two. For an even more exclusive and intimate culinary experience on Feb. 14 only, it’s chef’s choice with a five-course Omakase dinner at the intimate second-level 14-seat sushi bar. With a “hidden” VIP entrance along the side of the building, the Forbidden Lounge is a great place to hang, late-night, at Disney Springs any night in February. An exclusive menu is featured upstairs from 10pm to 2am and features a variety of late-night dining. For reservations, call 407-939-6686 (MOTO).

9. Monsieur Paul Proposal-popping and Vow Renewal dinner at Epcot – In the shadow of the Eiffel Tower (replica), indulge in a decadent meal by new chef Nicolas Lemoyne who just joined the restaurant from Monsieur Paul Bocuse’s restaurant in Lyon, France. Peer out of the second story windows that overlook the World Showcase Lagoon, toast with champagne, and dessert is served with an extra sparkle on the plate: the big question, and your token of “l’amour.” Reservations can be made by visiting com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

10. Sunset and cocktails at the Polynesian – Disney has some spectacular beaches that are perfect locations to watch the sunset, like the one at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Sip on some champagne and strawberries against the backdrop of the Seven Seas Lagoon and the beautiful new Bora Bora Bungalows. Take a moonlit stroll along the torch-lined waterfront and visit Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, the latest addition to the newly reimagined Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Located off the Great Ceremonial House, the themed lounge will serve exotic drinks and small plates, while offering scenic views of the marina and Seven Seas Lagoon.

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High School Students Nationwide Chosen for 2016 Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort

Approximately 100 students from across America will soon pack their bags for a fabulous, fun-filled and educational trip to Walt Disney World Resort as part of this year’s Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE, March 3-6, 2016.

The teens, along with a parent or guardian, will take off on an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, where they will experience once-in-a-lifetime educational and mentoring program designed to inspire them to dream big and discover a world of possibilities that will help them prepare for their future.

The students, known as “Dreamers,” are taken on stage and behind the scenes, where Disney theme parks become vibrant ‘classrooms’ and students discover new careers and pursue their dreams while also creating fun memories that last a lifetime.

During Disney Dreamers Academy, students participate in hands-on, immersive career-oriented workshops, ranging from animation to zoology. Each student is given important tools such as effective communication techniques, leadership skills, and networking strategies.

Additionally, Dreamers are exposed to acclaimed motivational speakers and popular celebrities who share their stories and insight on achieving success and DREAMING BIG. Dreamers have the opportunity to cultivate relationships with other students from across the nation while gaining first-hand knowledge from Disney experts and renowned entrepreneurs and executives.

“Disney Dreamers Academy is a one-of-a-kind program that, since its inception, is helping more than 800 students achieve their dreams,” said Tracey D. Powell, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts vice president of deluxe resorts. Powell serves as Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “As we prepare for our ninth annual event, the greatest reward has been seeing so many of our previous Dreamers use their experience at Disney Dreamers Academy to expand their dreams and move even closer to making them a reality. After all, that is what the program is all about,” said Powell.

Walt Disney World Resort, along with syndicated television and radio personality Steve Harvey and ESSENCE Communications, will host the selected Dreamers during their magical four-day career and educational exploration.

“Disney Dreamers Academy provides an excellent learning environment to help young students with their aspirations and to dream even bigger,” said Harvey. “I can’t wait to meet this year’s new students and kick off the 2016 Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort in March.”

Michelle Ebanks, president of ESSENCE Communications, added: “We are excited to once again join with Disney Parks and Steve Harvey to encourage our youth to dream big. Our expectation is that this group of remarkable teens will be the leaders of tomorrow and positively impact the world for years to come. It is our honor and commitment at ESSENCE to be part of that process.”

This year’s students were selected from thousands of applicants who answered a series of essay questions about their personal stories and dreams for the future. The students were chosen by a judging panel that included: gospel music legend Yolanda Adams; ESSENCE magazine editor-at-large Mikki Taylor; education advocate Dr. Steve Perry; The Sister Accord founder and author Sonia Jackson Myles; award-winning motivational speaker Jonathan Sprinkles; Simply Ellis Custom Clothier CEO Dr. Alex O. Ellis; Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation executive director Brandi Harvey; Steve Harvey Products creative director Karli Harvey; and professional speaker and Disney Dreamers Academy alumnus Princeton Parker.

For more information, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. Regular updates about Disney Dreamers Academy are also available on social media at Facebook/DisneyDreamersAcademy or Twitter/DreamersAcademy.

For a list of 2016 Dreamers and Bios, please visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com/dreamers/2016/

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Disney’s Zootopia To Be Released In IMAX® 3D Theatres Domestically And In Select International Markets

IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX) and The Walt Disney Studios, a division of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS), today announced that Zootopia, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 55th feature-length animated film, will receive a special one-week domestic engagement in IMAX^® 3D theatres beginning March 4. The film will also have an IMAX release in select international markets starting Feb. 12, including China on March 4.

Zootopia, about an optimistic bunny, Officer Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin), who teams up with the fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), to solve a mystery, is directed by Byron Howard (Tangled, Bolt) and Rich Moore (Wreck-It Ralph,The Simpsons) and co-directed and co-written (along with Phil Johnston, Wreck-It Ralph) by Jared Bush (Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero).

Commenting on the announcement, Dave Hollis, Executive Vice President, Theatrical Distribution, The Walt Disney Studios, said, “Zootopia features some of the richest and most inventive environments ever created for an animated film, and we are thrilled that moviegoers around the world will have a chance to experience it in IMAX^® 3D.”

“We are excited to team with Disney and the talented filmmakers at Walt Disney Animation Studios on what is sure to be another animated Disney classic,” said Greg Foster, Senior Executive Vice President, IMAX Corp. and CEO of IMAX Entertainment. “Zootopiais a visually stunning and layered film — not to mention a whole lot of fun — that we believe will resonate with IMAX audiences of all ages worldwide.”

The IMAX^® 3D release of Zootopia will be shown in its digitally re-mastered format, which includes the image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience^® with proprietary IMAX DMR® (Digital Re-mastering) technology. The crystal-clear images, coupled with IMAX’s customized theatre geometry and powerful digital audio, create a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are in the movie.

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Video – 10 Amazing Hidden Details In Star Wars: The Force Awakens

With the arrival of J.J. Abrams’ Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, the galaxy far, far away is back and fans couldn’t be happier. As the record-breaking box office numbers indicate, many moviegoers have been making multiple trips to the theater to see the next generation of the Skywalker saga unfold. The thrilling action, fun story, and memorable characters are enough to warrant repeat viewings, but there are plenty of other reasons to check it out.

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How ‘I’m Going to Disney World!’ Began as Post-Super Bowl Slogan

Though glitzy new commercials are a big part of what attracts some viewers to the Super Bowl, Disney has barely changed its ad spot for nearly three decades.

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It’s a Small World of Flavors by Scott Shindeldecker

Where we left off last, oh, whenever that was, it’s been too long for me to keep track.

As a part of reinventing Epcot, Plan Alpha, we’re taking it as read that Soarin’ Over the World exists, but has shifted it’s entrance from The Land, where it does not belong, into World Showcase. Given it’s world-spanning nature, it serves as a fantastic “introduction” to World Showcase. We’ve started to discuss idea of creating a new, large pavilion in World Showcase, themed to the 1964 NY Worlds Fair. The new pavilion would add a permanent festival space (to be addressed later), and added a year-round attraction to the space by moving Carousel of Progress (and reverting it back to it’s Worlds Fair version, complete with Sherman Brothers song). I then teased something about It’s a Small World, and promptly disappeared for a couple weeks.

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AGENT 13 JOINS “CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR” BATTLE IN NEW PROMO ART

New promotional art for “Captain America: Civil War” indicates that Agent 13 (Emily VanCamp) will have a more active role in the Marvel Studios film than fans may have thought.

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Preschoolers Engage in Enchanted Fun Aboard Disney Cruise Line

A magical adventure awaits preschoolers when they toddle onboard a Disney cruise. Little sailors aboard all four Disney Cruise Line ships can march with Mickey Mouse and rub shadows with Peter Pan, as Disney Cruise Line draws on a treasure trove of characters and the active imaginations of little ones to serve up a healthy dose of fun.

Playtime

Young seafarers 6 months to 3 years old enter a whimsical world inspired by the classic Disney theme park attraction at It’s a Small World Nursery (Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, Disney Magic) and enjoy life “under the sea” at “The Little Mermaid”-themed Flounder’s Reef Nursery (Disney Wonder). In these immersive spaces, trained counselors care for and entertain children with toys, books, videos, crafts and games. And favorite Disney characters may pop in to surprise the little sailors from time to time. The nurseries offer some of the longest operating hours and lowest hourly rates for baby and toddler care in the cruise industry.

Preschoolers ages 3 and up spend their days at sea in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, a child-friendly oasis that transports them to magical lands filled with arts, crafts, storytelling, music, dancing and more. The Oceaneer Club features age-targeted spaces and uniquely themed areas inspired by Disney whimsy, including adventuresome toys, fanciful fairies and brave superheroes.

Disney’s Oceaneer Lab has a seafaring twist with a pirate-theme, taking preschoolers ages 3 and up on a nautical journey of discovery, exploration and adventure. Here, kids can participate in crazy interactive science experiments, character experiences, sing-alongs, sports challenges and more.

In both the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, kids can have real-time conversations with Crush, the animated sea turtle from “Finding Nemo” and Stitch, the mischievous animated space alien. A Magic PlayFloor gives little ones the chance to soar above London with Peter Pan or hop around the bayou as frogs.

Preschoolers can also engage with their favorite Disney Junior characters during high-energy dance parties, featuring fun activities from “Jake & the Neverland Pirates” and “Sofia the First.” And the Disney Junior fun doesn’t stop there. In the Oceaneer Club, little ones can go on an interactive Little Einstein’s adventure to explore nature, geography, art, music and more.

Dining

Dine and Play allows families to enjoy dinner together, then gives youngsters more time to enjoy youth activities while parents relax at the end of the meal. With Dine and Play, parents check their children into evening youth activities during second seating in all of the main dining rooms. Families enjoy dinner together, then youth counselors whisk children away to play so the grown-ups can savor some time together in the adult-exclusive areas of the ship until as late as midnight.

In the dining rooms, parents can also look for foods with a Mickey Check, which are guaranteed to be nutritious and meet Disney Nutrition Guidelines. Back in the kids’ clubs, preschoolers can devour a tasty meal of pizza, macaroni and cheese, chicken fingers and other kid-friendly staples with fresh fruit and juice served in the playroom.

Fun in the Sun

On the ship’s upper decks, dedicated pool areas for small children feature a huge spiral slide and interactive water play areas just for toddlers, with pop jets, fountains and other delights. At the family pool, youngsters can swim while enjoying Disney films on the giant Funnel Vision LED screen. Preschoolers can also enjoy the sports deck with their families, or participate in outdoor games hosted by youth counselors.

During a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, young ones can splash down for water games and other wet fun during the Caribbean Beach Party at Scuttle’s Cove. And family time on Castaway Cay is an adventure for preschoolers who join parents and older siblings for a fossil dig sure to turn up whale bones and sharks’ teeth.

Families can register their preschool-aged children for the kids clubs either online before cruising or after boarding the ship. While children are enjoying the most extensive youth activity areas at sea, parents can enjoy their vacation “worry-free,” thanks to complimentary phones that allow crew or kids to contact parents anytime and anywhere on the ship.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent.

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The 15 Coolest Easter Eggs from Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens is filled with blink-and-you’ll-miss-it nuggets: split-second cameos, very familiar voices, and a few references just for old-school fans.