Archive for Walt Disney World

Epcot’s American Adventure Attraction Will Add New American Icons This Month

Among everything to see and do around the World Showcase Lagoon at Epcot®, a Guest-favorite that has been there since day one is The American Adventure attraction. This marvel of engineering brings together a moving stage, 35 Audio-Animatronics figures and a giant screen that together shares the story of the United States of America.

Right now, the team at Epcot is busy converting the attraction to an all-digital projection system, and installing a new screen and new speakers so the show will look and sound better than ever before when it reopens later this month.

In addition to the update from film to digital, the show’s finale will return with some notable faces from America’s recent history. Newly-added American icons include individuals such as music composer John Williams, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson and noted ballerina Misty Copeland.

And that’s not all: the iconic anthem “Golden Dream” has been re-recorded with all-new orchestration that brings the beloved music and lyrics to life in a way that will resonate more than ever.

Share this:

A Path Less Traveled – Disney’s Animal Kingdom 20th Anniversary Tour

As a part of the 20th anniversary celebration of Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, you can get an insider’s look at some of the ways we bring the magic of nature to life in a new limited-time experience called A Path Less Traveled – Disney’s Animal Kingdom 20th Anniversary tour. This collection of experiences will take you backstage to tour the vet hospital and Animal Nutrition Center, perform a nest check on a purple martin birdhouse as part of a Disney’s conservation project, gaze at some of the park’s largest inhabitants during Caring for Giants and end the day with VIP viewing of Rivers of Light.

A Path Less Traveled will be offered daily from April 1-May 5, 2018. Tours can be booked in advance for $59 per person, plus tax, by calling 407-WDW-PLAY (407- 939-7529). Guests should check in on the day of their experience at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk in Africa by 10:30 a.m.

 

Share this:

FULL FOOD BOOTH MENUS for 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

Get ready for SPRING to arrive at Epcot when the 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival kicks off on February 28th!

Full Story

Share this:

Jose and Panchito will Join Discovery Island Canivale at Disney’s Animal Kingdom February 4

José and Panchito, Donald’s feathery friends from “The Three Caballeros,” join the fun of Discovery Island Carnivale at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park starting Feb. 4, 2018.

Discovery Island Carnivale, which takes place nightly on Discovery Island, celebrates the beauty and harmony of all living things in the form of an exuberant dance party that features cheerful music from the Viva Gaia Street Band!, spectacular costumes inspired by the living creatures of the air, land and sea, and more.

José and Panchito will join this nightly street party through May 5, 2018.

Share this:

Watch – Super Bowl LII Parade at Magic Kingdom

B-ROLL: Super Bowl LII Parade at Magic Kingdom

http://disneysportsnews.com/videos/2018/02/06/b-roll-super- . . .

Share this:

14 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World Resort

“Love is an open door” to all kinds of options for the most romantic week of the year at Walt Disney World Resort, giving a whole new meaning to the popular duet from Frozen. Whether it’s a night out with that special someone, a “galentine’s” evening or special moments shared with friends, the options for romance and fun are practically endless. Here are 14 enchanting and memorable things to do this Valentine’s Day at the Most Magical Place on Earth.

  1. Epcot International Festival of the Arts: Guests can celebrate romance with a brush stroke of sense-tempting activities during this Epcot festival that celebrates the visual, culinary and performing arts. The festival runs now through Feb. 19 and offers everything from sparkly, bubbly drinks to imaginative works of art and performances by Broadway stars. Some of the enticing festival tastes include Le Coucher de Soleil at L’Art de la Cuisine Food Studio in the France Pavilion. This sunset mango and raspberry cake is a must-have!
  2. The Edison: Swing by this lavish, “industrial gothic”-style hotspot for classic American cuisine, craft cocktails, live music and jazz-inspired performances. There’s no better place to evoke the romantic, adult side of Disney Springs than this new restaurant and bar inspired by the decadent lifestyle of the Roaring ‘20s.
  3. Delicious Dinner Experiences:The magic of Disney dining brings romance to the table with special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menus that include optional wine pairing, themed desserts and drinks at select restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Couples can share unforgettable meals at some of the swankiest restaurants on property such as Narcoossee’s and Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club, Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. For reservations, call (407) 939-1947 or visit disneyworld.com/dining.
  4. Sneak a Smooch at the Parks: Disney theme parks are filled with countless romantic spots to share with a loved one. But some of them might not be on lovers’ radars! The Magic Carpets of Aladdin at Magic Kingdom provides the perfect place to sneak a romantic kiss while flying high over Agrabah.
  5. Dreamy Photo Ops: A stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park can quickly turn into an impromptu photo session, and Mickey-shaped balloons are the perfect prop. After the sun sets, guests can pose under the lanterns of Rapunzel’s tower in Fantasyland for another Insta-worthy shot. There are literally hundreds of unforgettable photo locations.
  6. Sweets at Amorette’s Patisserie: Experience romance in all its sugary deliciousness at this artsy and sophisticated pastry shop located at Disney Springs. Chocolate covered strawberries? Check. French champagne? Check. Eleven layers of red velvet cake? Yes, please.
  7. Kilimanjaro Safaris at Sunset: At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests can experience this popular attraction in a whole new light. Travel to the tranquility of the African savanna and see an array of exotic animals under the setting sun. After all, nothing says romance like the glow of twilight’s golden hour.
  8. Venezia Champagne Cruises: It’s a whole new world aboard a beautiful, 40-foot Italian water taxi that launches from Disney Springs to sail the waters of Lake Buena Vista. Each sailing comes complete with chocolate-covered strawberries and a champagne toast to christen the occasion in style. No trip to Italy necessary! To book call (407) 939-2628.
  9. Get Pampered at Senses Spa: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort are both home to the finest, most indulgent experiences at Walt Disney World Resort – Senses Spa. At either location, guests will find a full selection of therapies and treatments. Couples can enjoy a romantic massage for two. The spas are also great for creating an unforgettable girls’ day out.
  10. Creative Gift Ideas at Disney Springs: It’s easy to get creative with gift giving at Disney Springs. For the special guy who needs a little pampering, The Art of Shaving is the place. This handsome shop features high-end grooming products for the modern man. Guys can even get a haircut and shave onsite in The Barber Shop.
  11. Carriage Rides at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: Couples looking for rustic romance can relax on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the pine and cypress forests of Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground where deer, rabbits, ducks and even wild turkeys like to roam. To learn more, visit disneyworld.com/recreation
  12. Unforgettable Engagements: The romantic and magical ambiance of Walt Disney World makes it the perfect place to pop the big question. Those looking for new and creative places for a truly memorable proposal should consider proposing at Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom or during IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth near the Italy Pavilion at Epcot. The Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons team can also help guests plan the perfect proposal. To learn more, visit disneyweddings.com/engagementsAdding even more magical romance, Freeform TV will broadcast a special airing of “Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings” on February 14, featuring an unforgettable engagement at Walt Disney World Resort (check local listings for broadcast times).
  13. Romantic Stroll at Disney’s BoardWalk: Guests can experience the timeless charm of Disney’s BoardWalk, a quarter-mile promenade of exquisite dining, unique shops and exciting nightlife. And only on Valentine’s Day, the recently redesigned Flying Fish will offer diners a magical prix fixe menu that includes everything from filet mignon, lobster tail and even a delicious fondue for two. For reservations, call (407) 939-1947 or visit disneyworld.com/dining.
  14. Happily Ever After Fireworks: An evening around the Most Magical Place on Earth isn’t complete without experiencing Happily Ever After – the newest and most spectacular fireworks showcase in Magic Kingdom history. Guests can experience the magic of beloved Disney movies firsthand—and be inspired to find their own happily ever after.
Share this:

Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Hero Nick Foles “Going to Disney World’’ Following His Team’s Upset Victory To Capture The NFL Championship

In the frenzy of the on-field merriment after helping lead his Philadelphia Eagles to a 41-33 upset win over New England in Super Bowl LII in Minneapolis, quarterback Nick Foles turned to the cameras and shouted five famous words etched in sports lore:

“I’m going to Disney World!”

Foles’ pronouncement followed a standout performance Sunday in which he threw three touchdown passes and he, himself, caught a TD pass on a trick play – becoming the first quarterback in Super Bowl history to do that – to help bring Philadelphia its first league championship. A backup quarterback most of the season, Foles lived out a true Cinderella story, passing for 373 yards in a game that saw the most combined yards ever gained in an NFL post-season game.

And the performance anchors a remarkable broadcast achievement: a Disney Parks commercial that will be produced and aired in the immediate hours following the game on network and cable TV, the latest example from Disney Parks of the true power of magic.

Foles’ visit to Disney World will continue a Disney Parks tradition that began 31 years ago, in 1987. Foles is scheduled for a celebration parade Monday at the Magic Kingdom before throngs of cheering Eagles fans and park guests lining Main Street, U.S.A.

Monday marks the first time an Eagles player will participate in the Super Bowl parade at Disney. The team was winless in two previous Super Bowl appearances.

Foles joins a distinguished history of heroes from the sports world and beyond who have celebrated a major achievement at either Walt Disney World Resort in Florida or Disneyland Resort in California.

Share this:

Celebrate the Season of Love and Friendship at Disney Springs

This February, take a fresh approach to celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day (Feb. 13) or any fun night out with friends by exploring what’s new at Disney Springs.

Recently recognized by The New York Times as one of the top places to go in 2018, Disney Springs is home to Central Florida’s hottest new restaurant and entertainment venues. It’s the place to set sail for romance aboard a stunning 40-foot Venetian water taxi or treat friends to a vintage amphicar ride. And it’s the destination for one-of-a-kind entertainment that ranges from a hyper-reality Star Wars experience and luxury bowling to an eclectic array of street performers and live entertainment.

Here are some memorable ways to surprise your Valentine, gal pals or best friends this month – or any other time of the year.

From Romantic to Electrifying Dining

In honor of Valentine’s Day, a number of restaurants at Disney Springs are offering special menu items. The list includes surf-and-turf for two at STK Orlando, fresh catch selections at Paddlefish, a delectable special menu at Paradiso 37 and a specialty cocktail at Morimoto Asia.

Friends and lovers can also check out some brand-new Disney Springs restaurants. Guests can share plates of spaghetti and other tasty Italian dishes at the new Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante. Following the Disney Springs story line, this chic restaurant is set in a once-abandoned airline terminal from the 1930s. The open and airy dining room features 50-foot ceilings and views of Lake Buena Vista. For a more casual experience, head below ground to Enzo’s Hideaway – a speakeasy located in storied rum-runner tunnels – that serves up Prohibition-era cocktails and hearty Roman dishes.

Next door, The Edison dials up the excitement with electrifying entertainment, craft cocktails and contemporary American fare. At night, this “industrial Gothic”-themed space transforms into a nightlife hot spot with weekends featuring live bands, cabaret dancers and aerialists. Visit TheEdisonFLA.com for more details.

These are just some of the options at Disney Springs, which is home to more than 50 food and beverage locations including five by James Beard Award-winning chefs. To book dining reservations, call 407-WDW-DINE or contact the restaurants directly.

More to See and Do Together

Shared time together is arguably the best gift of all. At Disney Springs the options for sharing time with friends or that special someone are off the charts.

Venture to The VOID and embark on the new hyper-reality, multi-sensory experience, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire. In groups of four, teams suit up and go undercover as Stormtroopers to capture imperial intelligence vital to the budding rebellion’s survival. The experience is untethered and unbelievable. Tickets are available now at TheVOID.com.

At The BOATHOUSE, couples can set sail on The Venezia, a breathtaking Italian water taxi, for a romantic guided tour of Disney Springs complete with chocolate-covered strawberries and a champagne toast. There are also vintage amphicar rides – rare vehicles that travel both on land and in the water.

Other favorite hotspots for a fun night out include Splitsville Luxury Lanes, a modern upscale bowling alley, and AMC Fork & Screen Dine-in Theatres. Or, simply stroll the promenade and catch some of live performers and entertainment – more than 25 acts nightly.

Indulgent treats

Nothing says Valentine’s Day better than chocolate. Stop by The Ganachery and watch expert chocolatiers create richly exotic treats. Sample in store and take home an elegant, hand-packaged gift box for that special someone. Decadent hot-fudge sundaes – perfect for sharing – can be found at the world-famous Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. There is also a gallery of goodies at Amorette’s Patisserie – a sophisticated pastry shop filled with Disney-inspired cakes, cookies, cheesecake, macarons and eclairs.

Step beyond everyday gift giving

It’s easy to get creative with gift giving at Disney Springs. For the guy who likes a little pampering there’s The Art of Shaving. This handsome shop features high-end grooming products for the modern man. Guys can even get a haircut and shave onsite in The Barber Shop.

Ladies will enjoy the fairytale ambiance of Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories, the ultimate destination for Disney-themed baubles, handbags and fashion. For elegant fine jewelry and designer watches, Luxury of Time by Diamonds International offers a wide selection in their upscale boutique.

Complimentary self-parking is available at all Disney Springs garages and surface lots. Walt Disney World Resort guests enjoy complimentary transportation between their Disney Resort hotels and Disney Springs.

Share this:

WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT’S ‘INCREDIBLE SUMMER’ WILL BRING NEW EXPERIENCES TO ALL FOUR PARKS

This summer, beloved stories from several Disney films will come to life at Walt Disney World® Resort in the form of new attractions, entertainment, experiences and more at all four parks, setting up summer 2018 to truly be an “Incredible Summer.”

Here’s what you can expect at each Walt Disney World Resort location.

The Incredibles Take Over Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom® Park – You can party with Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, and Frozone from Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and the soon-to-be blockbuster “Incredibles 2.” Edna Mode, the greatest superhero costume designer, will also make her debut appearance. Each evening, you can enjoy a “SUPER” dance party on the Rocket Tower Stage. [NOTE: Disney•Pixar’s “Incredibles 2” opens in theaters June 15, 2018.]

The Guardians of the Galaxy Take the Stage at Epcot® – StarLord, and Gamora from “The Guardians of the Galaxy” will join an alien band, taking you on a journey through the cosmos. The party will feature hits from Awesome Mix Tapes 1 and 2 – fun and favorite tunes from the two movies’ soundtracks – building the anticipation for a new Epcot Guardians of the Galaxy attraction.

“Adventurers Meet UP! A Great Bird Adventure” & A “Dino-Tastic” Celebration for Donald Duck Will Debut At Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park – Two new can’t-miss offerings will debut at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in time for the park’s 20th anniversary. First, you can discover new bird species from around the world at the new show “Adventurers Meet UP! A Great Bird Adventure,” which will star Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug. The park will also launch a “dino-tastic” celebration, in which Donald Duck takes over Dinoland, U.S.A., in a new character celebration.

See “The Incredibles 2” at AMC Disney Springs® – Everyone’s favorite family of superheroes is back in “Incredibles 2” – but this time Helen is in the spotlight, while Bob navigates the day-to-day heroics of “normal” life at home with Violet, Dash and baby Jack-Jack, whose superpowers are emerging. When a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot, the family and Frozone must find a way to work together again—which is easier said than done, even when they’re all Incredible. “Incredibles 2” busts into theaters on June 15, 2018.

And last, but not least …

Toy Story Land Opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® – One major highlight of “Incredible Summer” will be the grand opening of Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This new 11-acre land will shrink guests to the size of a toy and allow them go explore the fun and adventure of Andy’s backyard. There, you can experience two new attractions: the family coaster Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers. Toy Story Land also will feature an existing guest-favorite attraction, Toy Story Mania!, which will expand to add a third track into the rotation. The land’s Woody’s Lunch Box will be a new quick-service restaurant that will o

Share this:

Wine Bar George Set to Open at Disney Springs in Spring 2018

Master Sommelier George Miliotes will bring his renowned wine expertise to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort when his new venture, Wine Bar George, opens in spring 2018. Wine Bar George will be the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida.

Miliotes is widely regarded as one of the restaurant industry’s foremost wine experts with accolades and awards from national publications including Wine SpectatorMiliotes is no stranger to Walt Disney World Resort – he was part of the opening team of California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and managed the venue from 1995 to 2002. While there, he met and worked alongside Ron Rupert, who will serve as the Executive Chef for Wine Bar George.

“I’m thrilled that Ron is joining our team and I’m looking forward to working with him again,” Miliotes said. “Ron is incredibly creative, and his expertise will bring a menu that’s designed to complement the wine list. With our menu, guests will have the opportunity to explore endless food and wine pairings.”

Rupert began his culinary career at Walt Disney World Resort in 1988. He was part of the opening team of California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where he teamed with Miliotes and Chef Clifford Pleau. During his 14 years at Walt Disney World Resort, Rupert was also part of the opening teams at Jiko – The Cooking Place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Ariel’s at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts.  Rupert and Miliotes have worked closely to create a menu that will pair with a wine list of more than 100 selections by the bottle and glass.

“The menu will include a selection of small plates, sharable plates, cheese and charcuterie boards, and desserts. Offerings will feature seasonally relevant items and everything will be made in-house,” Rupert said. “I’ve worked jointly with George to develop a menu that represents both global and local cuisine. Guests can expect to experience food that is familiar, yet new all at once.”

When the two-story 210-seat wine bar opens, it will join a growing and remarkable group of dining, shopping and entertainment offerings at Disney Springs. The design for the 6,000-square-foot space will be similar to a winemaker’s home estate with a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere.

“Guests will experience a feel reminiscent of the ‘Old World’ as if they are on the bottom floor of a gravity-flow winery surrounded by their best friends,” explains Miliotes. “The upstairs floor includes seating for groups of all sizes, space for private events and sweeping views of Disney Springs.”

Future patrons can expect their experience to include wine education, which will be served up in an approachable and fun manner. Every part of the Wine Bar George experience, including special events and visits from renowned winemakers, will educate and enlighten guests about food and wine.

Wine Bar George is currently accepting applications for positions online. Interested applicants can visit winebargeorge.com/join-our-team/ for more information. Follow George @WineBarGeorge on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook and join the #WineBarGeorge conversation. Visit WineBarGeorge.com for news and updates.

Share this: