WDW Daily News

All summer long we’re continuing to celebrate 90 years of the true originals, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, across our Disney Destinations.

At Walt Disney World® Resort, Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration features new entertainment, merchandise and specialty food and beverages at Magic Kingdom® Park. You can dance with their favorite Disney pals during the “Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party” in front of Cinderella Castle, and there’s still time to catch Mickey and Minnie together at Town Square Theater.

At Disneyland Resort, there’s a few weeks left to enjoy the fan-favorite “Mickey’s Soundsational Parade” and the “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular. 

Plus, Mickey and Minnie’s Surprise Party at Sea kicked off aboard the Disney Fantasy and continues on select Caribbean and Bahamian sailings through the end of August.

Check out the excitement in this video!

Beginning when he was a young boy, after learning about President Abraham Lincoln, Walt Disney developed a sense of patriotism that stayed with him throughout his lifetime. His love of country can be seen throughout the Disneyland®Resort. It’s no wonder that here you can discover a flurry of patriotic fun in celebration of Independence Day.

At Disneyland Park, Main Street, U.S.A., inspired by Walt Disney’s childhood hometown of Marceline, Missouri, honors America with red, white and blue décor, serving as the gateway and backdrop for patriotic memories. 

Guests looking to showcase their patriotism with a Disney flair, will find Americana-inspired merchandise for a limited time at Emporium and at Pioneer Mercantile in Disneyland Park; at Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure Park; and at World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District. Festive items include Spirit Jerseys, t-shirts, dresses, Minnie Ears, light-up necklaces, place settings and more.

You can also capture a moment with Mickey Mouse in his patriotic finest! They’ll find him in Town Square from 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on the Fourth of July.

To underscore America’s Birthday at Disneyland Park on July 4 only, “Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will animate the night with star-spangled spirit to the sounds of patriotic songs.

From Disneyland Railroad, to Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, to Frontierland and Mark Twain Riverboat, to the flag retreat ceremony saluting visiting members of the armed forces, America is celebrated daily throughout Disneyland. 

At Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, on July 4 only, from 3-10 p.m., Guests will discover a Fourth of July family BBQ at the rooftop The Sand Bar, with live music starting at 6 p.m., followed by fireworks from Disneyland Park at 9:30 p.m. A special a la carte menu will feature short rib brisket burgers, all-beef hot dogs, street corn on the cob and specialty drinks. Complimentary family activities and face painting are also in store. Subject to availability. This offering is open to the public and does not require a hotel reservation.

At Disneyland Hotel, on July 4 only, from 12-4 p.m., hotel guests of all ages can get in the patriotic spirit with family activities, live music, complimentary face painting, caricatures and tasty delights on the hotel’s Magic Kingdom Lawn. Subject to availability.

At the Downtown Disney® District, Guests will discover an array of patriotic offerings. For patriotic wear, your Clients can visit Curl Surf. For the Frozen Cherry Boba Lemonade, theycan drop in Wetzel’s Pretzels, and for the Firecracker Cocktail, they can check out Splitsville Luxury Lanes. Hungry? There’s also Berry Ice Creams at Salt & Straw, or a 4^th of July Box and Americana Mini Sampler at Sprinkles. For a decadent dessert, you can try the Red, White & Blue Cake Shake from Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes. How’s that for a fun stroll around the neighborhood?

From entertainment, to merchandise, to dining, to sweet treats and more, there’s something for everyone looking to celebrate America’s birthday at the Disneyland Resort. 

Happy Fourth of July!

The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year and with it comes the return of Epcot® International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth. This special event runs Nov. 29-Dec. 30, 2019, inviting you to discover holiday cheer throughout Epcot and across all 11 World Showcase pavilions. Seasonal fun includes sweet and savory treats at Holiday Kitchens throughout the park and special entertainment such as the Guest-favorite Candlelight Processional.

Held in the America Gardens Theatre, the Candlelight Processional is a cherished part of the Walt Disney World® holiday season, combining the talents of a live orchestra, massed choir and celebrity narrator in the retelling of the traditional Christmas story in a spectacular and heartwarming performance!

Here’s the line-up of celebrity narrators* confirmed to-date, and stay tuned for updates as additional narrators are announced:

• Neil Patrick Harris – 12/2-12/5
• Whoopi Goldberg – 12/6-12/7
• Gary Sinise – 12/13-12/15
• Pat Sajak – 12/16-12/18
• Steven Curtis Chapman – 12/22-12/24
• Edward James Olmos – 12/25-12/26

The Candlelight Processional is performed three times per night (5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.), and guaranteed seating is available by booking a breakfast, lunch or dinner Candlelight Processional Dining Package at select Epcot eateries. Availability is limited and advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit. Bookings for Candlelight Processional Dining Packages will begin on July 3, 2019.

Following the show, you can shop “around the world” to find the perfect holiday gift with a variety fragrances, specialty handbags, ornaments, toys, dolls, jewelry and stocking stuffers available at merchandise locations across Future World and World Showcase. And you can also catch the new, limited-time nighttime spectacular, Epcot Forever, debuting at Epcot this October.

Please note Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members  will be able to enjoy a 1-day exclusive early booking window on July 2, 2019. Annual Passholders reservations can be booked via 407-WDW-DINE while Disney Vacation Club Members can be booked through Disney Vacation Club Member Services at 800-800-9800.

*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. Theme park admission is required.

Check our the amazing details the Disney Imagineers it into the ground in these Photos of Creature Footprints at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland. Do you know which creature/character made each one?

At more than 14 acres, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the largest single-themed land in Disney Parks history, packed with immersive storytelling that allows guests to live their own Star Wars adventures. With so much to take in at Disneyland Park,* here are 10 “must-do” experiences for guests inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge:

Fly the “Fastest Hunk of Junk in the Galaxy” in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

The Millennium Falcon is a Star Wars icon, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge makes dreams come true for guests who’ve wished to step aboard the “fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy.” In Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, they strap into the Falcon cockpit and take the controls as pilots, gunners or flight engineers on a mission to deliver smuggled goods while avoiding any … unnecessary entanglements.

Stroll the Black Spire Outpost Marketplace

Black Spire Outpost in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is home to a bustling marketplace, full of vendors showcasing wares from across the galaxy. Guests can pick up authentic Batuuan attire with a stop at Black Spire Outfitters, start a collection of rare artifacts at Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, or peek into the cages in the Creature Stall. The marketplace’s twisting pathway is just waiting to be explored, with something new to see seemingly around every turn.

Take a Swig of Blue Milk

Ever since Luke Skywalker sat down for a family meal in “Star Wars: A New Hope,” Star Wars fans have had this burning question: What does Blue Milk taste like? Now at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, they finally have their answer. The Milk Stand in the Black Spire Outpost marketplace offers both Blue and Green Milk, delicious frozen blends with dashes of fruity accents.

Grab a Bite to Go at Ronto Roasters

Whether it’s the large podracing engine hanging overhead, the former smelter droid turning a spit of meats or just the savory smells wafting by, Ronto Roasters is sure to grab guests’ attention. This marketplace stall offers mouth-watering Ronto Wraps and sweet-or-spicy Nuna Turkey Jerky, as well as a selection of specialty beverages.

Craft a Lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop**

Constructing a lightsaber is a rite of passage in the life of a Jedi, as this elegant weapon from a more civilized age is attuned to its wielder through the Force. Guests in Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers feel the presence of the Force as they craft their own lightsabers, customizing them with various hilts, décor and the all-important kyber crystals.

Build a Droid Inside the Droid Depot**

Droids can be some of the most loyal companions in the entire Star Wars galaxy, and now guests have the chance to build and customize their own astromech friends at the Droid Depot. Patrons pick pieces and parts off a conveyor belt to construct one of two core models (R-series or BB-series), which can then interact with elements throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Drop By for a Drink at Oga’s Cantina***

The heartbeat of Black Spire Outpost, Oga’s Cantina is a place where even the blaster-bolt scorches on the walls tell a story. Guests can gather to share their own tales from around the galaxy as they enjoy exotic beverages served in unique vessels and listen to spirited musical entertainment from DJ R-3X, the former droid pilot from Star Tours. Whether sidling up to the cantina’s counter or sliding into one of the establishment’s back booths, this is the best place to catch up on local gossip, make a new friend or form a new alliance.

Hack Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with the Play Disney Parks Mobile App****

When accessed inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the Play Disney Parks app transforms guests’ mobile devices into their very own Star Wars: Datapad. They can then scan the contents hidden inside containers, translate languages, and tune into communications happening throughout the land. Guests can also use this tool to hack into droids and door panels (what the locals call “slicing”) to unlock additional stories.

Support the Resistance or the First Order to Gain Outpost Control

Using the Play Disney Parks mobile app,*** guests can play together in a game called “Outpost Control” that takes place across the land. Guests can choose to support either the Resistance or the First Order by hacking the blinking light panels next to doorways throughout Black Spire Outpost. The faction that controls the majority of these panels first wins the game and demonstrates their allegiance to their side’s cause. The conflict plays out multiple times throughout the day.

Be on the Lookout for Kylo Ren, Rey and Other Star Wars Characters

Guests should keep their eyes open as they explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, because they may encounter heroes of the Resistance or agents of the First Order. Supreme Leader Kylo Ren lands at Black Spire Outpost and gathers Stormtroopers to help him hunt for Resistance fighter Rey. Guests may also encounter Millennium Falcon co-pilot Chewbacca or Resistance spy Vi Moradi.

Earlier this year, we announced an all-new dining adventure coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park select nights beginning July 24, 2019.  Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Night is a family-friendly progressive dining experience drawing inspiration from the many facets of African cultures. In addition to celebrating the beloved story of “The Lion King,” this experience honors some of the most majestic and endangered African animals through delicious flavors, fun activities, live music, and appreciation for animal conservation.

We’re excited to share that one of these fun activities is a Kilimanjaro Safaris Virtual Realty experience. After enjoying a welcome reception at the train station in Harambe, you will hop on the train and journey to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Here they’ll have the opportunity to try out a virtual reality 360-degree safari experience like they’ve never seen before, one that is only available exclusively during Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Night! “Join our Pride” and get up close and personal with the sights and sounds of Pride Rock, coming face-to-face with our amazing host, the African lions. 

In addition to virtual reality, Guests will be able to indulge on a culinary expedition of food and beverages throughout the entire experience. When they begin their journey at the Harambe Train Station, you will enjoy a welcome reception featuring meat pies, Durban chips and dip, and a hand-selected array of meats and cheeses as well as Harambellini, a specialty beverage featuring sparkling South African wine blended with a bright burst of passion fruit, orange, and guava juices. And for the kiddos, they can nibble on cheese, fruit, and Tofaa (chocolate caramel-dipped green apples). 

During the welcome reception, you will receive a boarding pass that allows them to hop on the train and head to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, where fun activities (including the VR experience and character greetings with familiar friends Timon and Rafiki) and more bites and refreshments await them. They can snack on spiced crisp plaintains, South African oat and coconut bars, and Sundowner Safari Mix with spiced nuts and dried fruit. Kids can enjoy seasonal fruit and Trail Mix Bites with granola, chocolate chips, raisins, and honey. For the adults, the specialty beverages featured here are the Chief’s Shandy (Tusker beer blended with lemonade), and Wanjohi’s Dawa, a refreshing blend of tequila, pineapple, mango, and Ancho chile. 

To conclude the evening, you will hop back on the train to head back to their final destination: Harambe Market. Here they’ll partake in a delicious dinner while enjoying upbeat music from African musicians, a dance party, and captivating storytelling. On the menu is an array of hearty dishes and yummy desserts inspired by the five featured African animals. Around the marketplace, they’ll find stations representing each of the animals and a selection of additional offerings in the courtyard.

The African Lion Station

• Char-Grilled Steak with Herb-Infused Mealie, Chakalaka, and a Red Wine Sauce
• Chicken with Fingerling Potatoes, Kool Slaai, and Mango Sambal
• Chicken Tenders (Kid’s Option)

The Cape Buffalo Station

• Shrimp Curry with Sustainable Shrimp, Cape Malay Green Coconut Curry, and Fragrant Basmati Rice
• Grilled Sweet Corn with Farmer’s Cheese, Chili-Lime Spice, and Citrus Aioli
• Barbecued Ribs (Kid’s Option)
• Macaroni and Cheese (Kid’s Option)

The Rhinoceros Station

• Vegetable Curry with Roasted Seasonal Vegetables served over Basmati Rice
• Vegetarian Potato and Pea Samosa, Pickled Vegetables, and Tamarind Dipping Sauce
• Barbecued Ribs (Kid’s Option)
• Macaroni and Cheese (Kid’s Option)

The African Elephant Station

• Smoked Honey-glazed Pork Belly with White Bean Purée, Caramelized Apple-Bacon Chutney, and Curry-Apple Gastrique

The Leopard Station

• Sustainable Fish with Coriander-Fennel Slaw and Dhania Chutney
• Grilled Lamb with Goat Cheese Polenta and Roasted Garlic Sauce
• Mini Corn Dog (Kid’s Option)

Harambe Market Courtyard Station

• Petite Greens, Local Tomatoes, Cucumber, Sweety Drop Peppers, Citrus, and Citrus Vinaigrette
• Boerie Roll with South African Farmers’ Style Sausage, Peppadews, and Pickled Vegetables
• African Spiced Popcorn

Dessert Station

• Honey-Caramel Candy Bar with Crispy Pearls
• Animal-inspired Cupcakes
• Lions S’mores Pop with Chocolate and Graham Cracker Crumbs

Specialty Beverages

• Talking Monkey – Coffee Liqueur, Banana Liqueur, and Espresso-infused Snow Leopard Vodka
• Marketplace Sangria – Blend of African Wine and Rooibos Tea finished with a Citrus and Mint Infusion
• Safari Sunset – Passion Fruit, Strawberry, Orange, and Guava Juices blended with Rum
• Assorted African-inspired Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages (Also available at the Welcome Reception and Rafiki’s Planet Watch Train Station)
• Assorted African Beer and Wine (Also available at the Welcome Reception and Rafiki’s Planet Watch Train Station)

Menus and options are subject to change, but at each station, you will learn a little bit about each of the Big Five animals. Children are invited to choose their favorite Big Five animal charm and learn more about them while creating their very own bracelet or necklace. 

Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Night begins on July 24, 2019 on select nights from 6-9 p.m. for a limited time at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Pricing is $125 plus tax for adults and $99 plus tax for children ages 3-9 and separate park admission is required. To make reservations for you please call 407 WDW-DINE (407 939-3463) or visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

It’s time to make new memories and hop aboard Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind in Disney California Adventure® Park. Pixar Pier’s latest attraction is a whimsical, family-friendly delight!

Inspired by the hit Disney and Pixar film “Inside Out,” Emotional Whirlwind takes you on a sense-ational spin while aboard one of eight Memory Movers. Help Riley’s Emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear—sort through memories being collected.

Check out the video below!

Emotional Whirlwind is located in the Inside Out Headquarters neighborhood of Pixar Pier, which recently celebrated its one-year anniversary! The reimagined land shares the stories and characters of Pixar films with exciting attractions, themed neighborhoods and fun eateries.

Deciding to take your kids to a Disney park for the first time can be as daunting as it is exciting. There’s so much to do and explore at the parks, it’s easy to get stressed and overwhelmed on how to do it all in one trip. The trick is to figure out what would make the vacation the most magical for your child. From characters to attractions and dining, there’s something every kiddo will love at Disney. Whether you’re a Disney pro and taking your kids for the first time or a newbie yourself, you’re going to want to do a little preplanning before heading to the parks. We’ve rounded up our best tips and tricks to ensure you and your kids have the best first visit to Disney.

Full Story

If you didn’t think summer at the Disneyland® Resort could get any better, you may want to sit down for this. An all-time fan favorite, a “spectacular festival pageant of nighttime magic and imagination” is coming back to Disneyland Park for a limited-time encore engagement! That’s right, the Main Street Electrical Parade, along with its half-million sparkling lights and “electro-syntho-magnetic musical sounds” will once again create magical summer memories for Guests of all ages.

This limited-time encore engagement is set to begin on Aug. 2 with nightly performances through Sept. 30, 2019.

Disneyland Resort is the destination to visit this summer! You can explore new adventures along Pixar Pier and enjoy spectacular entertainment like “Tale of the Lion King” in Disney California Adventure park. Admire the beautifully refurbished Sleeping Beauty Castle and experience a whole new land – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland Park.