WDW Daily News

The Polite Pig will bring a new twist on favorite local flavors to Disney Springs™ at Walt Disney World® Resort when it opens in spring 2017. A sister restaurant to The Ravenous Pig of Winter Park, FL, The Polite Pig will feature a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program that serves all drinks on tap, including locally-brewed Cask & Larder beer, wine and cocktails.

Owners and James Beard award nominees James and Julie Petrakis are partnering with James’ brother (who operates another popular Orlando-area eatery, Greens & Grille) to open the new restaurant, located in the Town Center neighborhood of Disney Springs. The 5,000-square-foot venue will be open daily for lunch and dinner, with seating for about 200 Guests.

Take a look at an Artist Rendering of Planet Hollywood Observation Restaurant at Disney’s Springs

This summer Disney Springs is the place to be by day and by night! With a Grand Opening Summer Celebration taking place all season long, Disney Springs features an array of hard-to-pass-up deals and a variety of delectable new dining options at the newest neighborhood–Town Center, plus free nightly entertainment featuring more than 20 different acts performing across all four neighborhoods – The Marketplace, Westside, The Landing, and Town Center.

To kick off the grand opening season, on July 15, the best of summer and Central Florida came together to celebrate Disney Springs-style – in Town Center, with an outdoor party under the stars where guests strolled into all sorts of discoveries designed to delight the senses — renowned chefs serving up scrumptious samples from their restaurants, performances by nationally recognized entertainers, and proprietors showcasing their products and store designs that make shopping at Disney Springs simply special.

Wrapped in Florida-inspired, made-for-strolling promenades, arcing footbridges, flowing streams and waterfront charm, Disney Springs treats Walt Disney World Resort guests to an exciting blend of shopping, dining and entertainment with a Disney touch. By day or night guests can expect a vibrant scene at Disney Springs, whether they are shopping world-class brands, enjoying high-quality entertainment, having that special dining experience, pleasure boating on Village Lake or hopping a balloon skyward for spectacular views of Walt Disney World and beyond.

Now and every day, guests can enjoy the benefits of a dramatically transformed exciting new waterfront district for world-class shopping, unique dining, and high-quality entertainment featuring more than 150 establishments across its four neighborhoods.

Discover Disney Springs like never before! Here are just a few of the highlights:

Town Center – Spectacular Shopping and Award-winning chefs

• Some of the most unique and recognizable names in retail such as UNIQLO, Vince Camuto, Anthropologie, Zara, Lilly Pulitzer, Columbia Sportswear, LACOSTE, Under Armour, kate spade new york, Sephora and Oakley all call Town Center home.
• Among new dining choices awaiting Town Center guests are restaurants developed by James Beard award-winning chefs. Frontera Cocina serves up gourmet Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails from the menu envisioned by celebrity chef Rick Bayless, a six-time James Beard Foundation winner. Chef Art Smith, two-time winner of the James Beard Award brings a unique taste of gourmet southern cuisine and Florida agriculture to the heart of Disney Springs with Homecoming Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine.

The Landing – Inspired dining, breathtaking waterfront views, and unique boutiques

• High-quality retailers including Erwin Pearl for fashion jewelry and Havaianas for sandals are found along lantern-lined byways.
• Dine off a shipshape menu at The BOATHOUSE or enjoy, at Morimoto Asia, Pan-Asian cuisine from celebrity chef Matsaharu Morimoto, of Iron Chef fame. STK Orlando offers guests a fine dining experience set in chic, contemporary surroundings. Finish off the evening with a relaxing stroll to grab a signature gelato at Vivoli Gelateria or a crafted cocktail at Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar.

The Marketplace — Family-friendly delights for guests of all ages

• Beautiful waterside shopping that combines new experiences such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded new Bibbity Bobbity Boutique inside the newly re-designed World of Disney store.
• Nearby, the new Lime garage makes getting to the Marketplace a breeze

The West Side – Exuberant entertainment retail and dining options

From new acts at Cirque du Soleil to iconic restaurants to colorful food trucks to bowling with a stylized twist at Splitsville, West Side offers something for everyone. There is even the opportunity to lift off in a tethered balloon. Characters in Flight rises from the banks of Village Lake for eye-popping, 360-degree views (on a clear day you can see Florida’s east coast).

Two new slot-smart parking decks where green lights indicate available spaces make parking convenient to the entire Disney Springs scene – and it’s free. Valet parking also is available. Disney Springs is easily accessed from I-4, Central Florida’s major interstate, and connected to the rest of Walt Disney World Resort by motor coach and watercraft.

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.

The interior takes the “Homecoming Florida” theme to beautiful heights with the cocktail bar and two large tables crafted from reclaimed Florida camphor and eucalyptus. There’s Florida cypress through the interior, creating a warm, airy look that brings the outdoors in. Even the zinc tabletops were made in the Sunshine State. Favorite artwork includes oversized murals inside and out by a local artist.

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.

 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

Women’s Chino Micro Shorts	$14.90 (from $19.90)
Women’s Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt	$19.90 (from $29.90)
Women’s Supima Cotton Tank Top	$7.90 (from $9.90)
Women’s Supima Cotton Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-shirt	$7.90 (from $9.90)
Women’s Supima Cotton V-neck Short Sleeve T-shirt	$7.90 (from $9.90)
Men’s Chino Shorts	$19.90 (from $29.90)
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.

Name:	UNIQLO at Disney Springs
Opening Date:	10 a.m. Friday, July 15
Operating Hours:	10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Sunday
Address:	1674 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Floor Space:	Approximately 25,000 square feet (2,300 square meters) across two floors.

Columbia Sportswear (NASDAQ:COLM) recently opened a new branded retail location at Disney Springs in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The 5,000-square-foot store features a stunning overhead display of 500 fish in a pool of reflected light, artwork and sculpture inspired by the Florida coast, and on-site embroidery so customers can personalize their purchases. The new store offers Columbia’s Performance Fishing Gear (PFG) and a range of technical apparel and footwear designed to keep the entire family cool, dry and protected.

Disney Springs is nearing completion on the largest expansion in its history and emerging as an exciting new waterfront district for world-class shopping, unique dining and high-quality entertainment. The new Columbia store is located in the district’s new Town Center neighborhood, which offers a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a promenade where guests can relax, refresh and reconnect with each other.

“We’re excited that everyone who visits Disney Springs can have the chance to enjoy the great Florida sunshine in Columbia’s legendary apparel and footwear,” said Shawn Cox, Senior Vice President of Retail for Columbia Sportswear. “Our PFG collection is anchored around the water and the sun, and it’s a perfect match for spending the day with friends and family at Walt Disney World Resort and beyond.”

Every PFG product is thoughtfully designed with fabrics, construction and industry-leading technologies for enjoying long days on the water or under the sun. The PFG collection is inspired by the performance, style and comfort needs of professional and recreational anglers, and is being embraced as a lifestyle brand by consumers of all ages.

For more than 75 years, Columbia has developed innovative products and technologies with one simple goal: They want you to enjoy the outdoors longer. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Columbia’s innovative products are developed and tested under the watchful eyes of its 92 year-old chairman, Gert Boyle. Everyone at Columbia continues to follow Boyle’s mantra: “It’s perfect. Now make it better.”

Grand Opening Activities

Columbia’s Disney Springs store is celebrating its grand opening on Wednesday, July 13, 7:00 – 9:00 pm. Everyone is invited to visit the store during this time to participate in raffles and enjoy appetizers, live music, and beverages.

Some of the last pieces of the transformation of Downtown Disney into Disney Springs have moved into place, and although a few parts are not completed, the flavor of the redesigned and expanded dining/shopping/entertainment complex and its new emphasis on its waterfronts are apparent.

Full Story

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs has moved to a new location near Once Upon a Toy.

Inspired by Walt Disney’s “Cinderella,” the newly expanded salon has a country home-inspired feel that complements the theming of Disney Springs. Here, Fairy Godmothers-in-Training will continue making magical transformations for Guests ages 3-12. Girls can choose a hairstyle then add make-up, nail color and accessories – even a Disney princess costume. Boys can join in the fun too, as they’re transformed into gallant knights.

There are interactive elements, décor and artwork found throughout the Boutique – including a tile mural of Cinderella Castle.

As a reminder, all Disney PhotoPass photos taken at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are included with the purchase of Memory Maker if captured during the applicable Memory Maker window.

Reservations for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are highly recommended. Appointments can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-STYLE.

With even more live entertainment for summer, special décor, sales at many retailers, and fun warm weather-inspired enhancements, now is the perfect time for guests to discover Disney Springs™.

Now through Labor Day, guests can check out a few of these exciting additions during the Disney Springs Grand Opening Summer Celebration.

On any given night, there are more than 20 different entertainment acts performing throughout the four Disney Springs neighborhoods. This free entertainment includes a variety of live musicians, improvisational rappers, DJs, Living Statues and, depending on the night guests visit, maybe even a roaming illusionist. This summer, we’re adding some local talent including Sleeping Sunset (Pop), The I-4 Band (Top 40), Chaz Robinson (Pop), Casey Conroy (Contemporary/Pop), Plus 1 (Country), Vintage Vinyl (Contemporary with a vintage sound), Dayve Stewart (Jazz), CeCe Teneal (R&B), The Gerry Williams Band (Funk), and The Liam Duncan Trio (Current Acoustic).

Every afternoon, the Marketplace Fountain will be flowing, giving Guests young and old the chance to splash the day away during the Beat the Heat DJ Party. With a combination of chill summer tunes and a variety of ice-cold, frosty beverages (with options for adults and kids) nearby, this will be THE spot to cool down.

Plus, many locations around Town Center, our newest neighborhood, will offer some hard-to-pass-up deals, with some lasting all summer. For example right now, a variety of shops are offering 10-60% off select items and purchases including Columbia Sportswear, Lucky Brand, Alex and Ani, Melissa Shoes, Francesca’s Edwin Pearl, JOHNNY WAS, ZARA, LACOSTE, Johnston & Murphy, Sperry, Kipling, UNOde50 and more (subject to change).

And, with festive Grand Opening décor throughout the property, limited-edition “Grand Opening” treats at select locations and roaming Disney PhotoPass photographers with Disney Springs Grand Opening-themed frames to pose with – guests will definitely feel there’s something special in the air!

Getting to Disney Springs is easier than ever. If guests are staying at a Disney Resort hotel, they can take complimentary bus transportation that drops off in the heart of Town Center. Or, if they choose to drive, they can access the property from I-4 West via a new connection that leads directly to one of our two convenient parking garages. Both feature complimentary parking and smart technology that identifies open parking spaces. Valet parking is also available.

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.