Archive for Walt Disney World

More Details on Grand Avenue, Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios

As we’ve previously shared, two new lands – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land – are currently under construction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®. But today we’re sharing a look at another area of the park that’s undergoing its own transformation.

Muppets Courtyard, along with a portion of the former Streets of America, is being re-imagined by Walt Disney Imagineering to become a new area called Grand Avenue. Inspired by the revitalization and the vibrant culture of present-day downtown Los Angeles, Grand Avenue is where vintage office buildings and warehouses are being converted to exciting new uses. You will soon see facades for “merchants” appearing in this area for a music shop, loft apartments, a tailor and more, with each window on the street featuring charming displays.

A highlight of Grand Avenue is sure to be BaseLine Tap House, which takes over a former F&B location. This new corner pub will feature California beers and wines along with a selection of small bites.

The current Muppets Courtyard will become Grand Park, an urban square off Grand Avenue surrounded by shops and restaurants like PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. You can already see changes in the area, with the Muppets theater being renamed “Grand Arts Theatre” and boasting a brand-new marquee. But, not to worry – Kermit, Miss Piggy and the gang continue to star in their hilarious and irreverent “Muppet*Vision 3D” show.

Grand Avenue will be opening to Guests this fall.

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FALL FESTIVALS, PARTIES, CONCERTS & MORE RETURN TO THE WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT AUG. 25

Nothing beats a fall visit to Walt Disney World® Resort. In just a few weeks, the season will return early, giving you more time than ever to experience favorite festivals, parties and more.

Here’s what’s on tap this fall at Walt Disney World Resort.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties Begin Aug. 25 – This Guest-favorite fall event will return to Magic Kingdom®Park on select nights, beginning Aug. 25. This hard-ticket event features Halloween decor, special entertainment, Disney characters in costumes, trick-or-treating (for all ages!), Disney attractions, Happy HalloWishes Fireworks, and so much more. This year’s event dates are: Aug. 25 and 29; Sept. 1, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26 and 29; Oct.1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29 and 31; and Nov. 1, 2017.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Returns Aug. 31 – This year’s festival will offer 75 days of culinary fun that will include: 35 global marketplaces (including five new ones!), a selection of 39 new marketplace dishes, 65 new cocktail selections, 225 Eat to the Beat concertsand much more. ABC’s “The Chew,” will also return to broadcast five episodes from the festival this year.

The Great Irish Hooley Returns Sept. 1-4 – The 6th Great Irish Hooley music festival will return to Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs® in just a few weeks. Celebrating Irish song, dance, food and drink, the Great Irish Hooley kicks off performances beginning at 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1, and continues each day and night through late Monday and into the wee hours. This year’s Hooley entertainment headliners include: Elevation, Lisa Canny Band, Gary O’Meara Band, The Raglan Roots Coalition, Jake Richardson, Over the Bar, Rollickin’ Rua and Aaron O’Sullivan. The Raglan Road Irish Dancers, as well as champion Irish dancer Ciaran Keating, will also share their talents on stage.

Disney Night of Joy Returns Sept. 8-9 – The ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will again host Disney Night of Joy, two evenings filled with joyous gospel, hip-hop, pop, rock, praise and adult contemporary music. This year’s lineup includes performances by artists like TobyMac, MercyMe, Amy Grant, Steven Curtis Chapman and many others.

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22nd Annual Epcot international Food & Wine Festival Expands

A record 75-day festival overflows with culinary events, celebrity chefs, seminars, musical acts and workshops, during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Aug. 31-Nov. 13, 2017.

Celebrated for its creative tapas-sized dishes and inspired sips, high-energy entertainment and premium signature dinners and tastings, the festival will sizzle with a more than 35 specialized marketplace – celebrating 35 years of Epcot. Guests can pair wines, beers and ciders with delicious tastings as they stroll World Showcase Promenade and Future World.

Celebrity and Disney chefs will present culinary demonstrations, and beverage experts will host daily wine tastings and seminars (additional charges apply), ABC’s “The Chew” returns to Epcot to tape a week’s worth of shows Oct. 4-6.

This year’s festival will also spotlight inspired dishes geared towards kids and offer scavenger hunts and culinary demos designed for the whole family.

Some 32 musical acts are set to perform during the popular Eat to the Beat concerts with returning fan favorites Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Air Supply and 38 Special, plus newcomers The Hooters, 10,000 Maniacs and Kenny G. Guests can call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) or visit epcotfoodfestival.com for information and updates about booking premium culinary programs, dinners and tasting events such as the popular Party for the Senses.

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Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge & Toy Story Land Models on Display Soon at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

With Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land currently under construction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, the park is truly in the middle of an exciting transformation.

Today, we wanted to share another park update that will very soon give you a thrilling, up-close look at what’s to come at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The One Man’s Dream attraction is currently being reimagined into Walt Disney Presents, which like its predecessor, will continue showcasing historic items from Walt Disney’s history, such as sketches, photos and storyboards. But wait – Walt Disney Presents will also act as a preview center where you can explore what’s next for the park. Starting in mid-September, you will be able to view concept art, ride vehicle maquettes and a never-before-seen model for Toy Story Land. A portion of the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge model also will be on display, as well as concept art for the new Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction.

The attraction will also continue to host greetings with characters like Star-Lord and baby Groot, plus special sneak previews of upcoming Disney films.

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Walt Disney World Resort Honors the Centennial of the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division

Magic Kingdom Park guests stood proudly alongside more than 130 veterans and soldiers this evening during a special flag retreat ceremony, honoring the 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army’s centennial year.

An elite airborne infantry unit, the 82nd Airborne Division was established in August 1917, shortly after the United States entered World War I – the same war in which Walt and Roy O. Disney both served.

“As a company founded by two brothers who served their nation in uniform during World War I, Disney has always had a strong connection to the armed services and looks for ways to show our support of active-duty military, veterans and their families,” said Dan Cockerell, vice president of Magic Kingdom Park.

With the 82nd Airborne Division commemorating its centennial year at the National Association Convention in Orlando earlier this week, Disney took the opportunity to honor the service and sacrifice of those who have bravely served in uniform since World War I.

Among the veterans attending the flag retreat ceremony this evening at Walt Disney World Resort was 89-year-old Mel Greene. Greene joined the division after World War II and, following his service, continued to support active-duty 82nd Airborne soldiers. During tonight’s event, Greene learned he will be this year’s recipient of The All-American Medal of Honor—an annual award given to an 82nd Airborne veteran for distinguished service to this elite division.

“I was overwhelmed,” Greene said. I can’t believe that I’m getting that award tonight, because it’s the highest award that the Airborne gives every year. And I don’t know if I even deserve it or not.”

Following the ceremony, the 82nd Airborne Division completed a unit march down Main Street, U.S.A. The division’s 16-member chorus and brass quintet band also delighted guests earlier in the day with musical performances in Liberty Square and Town Square.

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Disney Springs Welcomes Terralina Crafted Italian

The foodie scene continues to grow at the ever-evolving Disney Springs with the fall opening of Terralina Crafted Italian, a new dining experience curated by James Beard Award-winning Chef Tony Mantuano. Operated by Levy Restaurants, this new dining location will feature dishes inspired by Mantuano’s adventures in Italy’s Lake District. This entirely new restaurant is being built in the location formerly occupied by Portobello Country Italian Trattoria

Terralina’s menu will present authentic Italian cuisine cooked in Chef Tony’s signature olive oil imported directly from Italy. The restaurant’s wood-burning oven will fire up a selection of artisanal, hand-tossed pizzas and fresh vegetable dishes. Fan favorites from Portobello Country Italian Trattoria such as the antipasti platter and signature pasta dishes will remain on the menu alongside new additions such as mussels and pork chops. For more information or to make reservations call, 407-WDW-DINE (934-7639).

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‘JINGLE BELL, JINGLE BAM!’ HOLIDAY DESSERT PARTY RETURNS TO DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

The “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” Holiday Dessert Party will return this year to Disney’s Hollywood Studios® at Walt Disney World® Resort! It’s one of the best ways for your Clients to enjoy the Holiday Nighttime Spectacular fireworks show.

In the courtyard of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, guests can enjoy multiple food stations, featuring holiday-inspired sweet and savory delights like warm cheese fondue with pretzel bread and flatbread, warm pumpkin pie and spiced-bread pudding with hand-dipped vanilla ice cream. The Liquid Nitro Station fires-up the party with chocolate mousse and choice of toppings, including salted caramel sauce.

Beer, wine and specialty cocktails are available for Guests over 21. Specialty non-alcoholic beverages are also available, and of course, the hot cocoa is a crowd-pleaser.

While a special VIP character comes to meet and mingle with dessert party-goers, guests won’t believe their eyes when they check out the festive lights wearing a pair of 3D HoloSpex® glasses they receive. The glasses turn bright lights into holiday holographic illusions such as gingerbread men and candy canes.

For parties Nov. 9-Dec. 15, 2017 the cost is $79 per adult, $45 for children 3-9, and includes tax and gratuity. For parties Dec. 17-31, 2017, the cost is $89 adult, $49 child (tax and gratuity included.)

Reservations are now open! Book by calling 407-WDW-DINE, or via DisneyWorld.com/dining.

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6th Annual ‘Great Irish Hooley’ Kicks Off Labor Day Weekend at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs

The most diverse and talented lineup in the history of Central Florida’s only boutique Irish festival takes the stage Sept. 1-4 during the 6th Great Irish Hooley music festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs.

Celebrating Irish song, dance, food and drink over the long Labor Day weekend, the Great Irish Hooley kicks off performances beginning at 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1, and continues each day and night through late Monday and into the wee hours.

With contemporary Irish cuisine, Irish craft beers, hand-crafted cocktails and day-into-night entertainment, the Great Irish Hooley promises a high-voltage music festival for all who drop by or reserve a table.  This year’s Hooley entertainment headliners include:

  • Elevation — Back by popular demand and appearing at Raglan Road for the first time in four years, this stellar U2 tribute act will play two special nighttime shows on Sept. 2 and 3 paying homage to the U2 world tour celebrating 30 years of the ground-breaking Joshua Tree album.
  • Lisa Canny Band – The outrageously talented Lisa Canny and her band combine traditional Irish, R&B and Hip Hop. She will appear at Raglan Road for three weeks beginning August 30 and will perform nightly during the Hooley.
  • Gary O’Meara Band – O’Meara is a traditional Irish banjo player with a prolific career as a solo artist and as a member of multiple legendary Irish music acts.

The Raglan Road Irish Dancers, plucked from the casts and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, will perform throughout the Great Irish Hooley.  And champion Irish dancer Ciaran Keating, Raglan Road’s show choreographer, will host an entertaining event that traces the origins of Irish dance from earliest jigs and reels through contemporary times.

Additional music acts will include:

  • The Raglan Roots Coalition – Raglan felt it was time to shake its boogie – Roots style, with this authentic Irish house band.  Think soul-rocking Celtic bluegrass with some hip-swingin’, knee-shakin’ funky roots beats.
  • Jake Richardson — Jake is a singer-songwriter-musician from Dublin whose passion for music inspires audiences as he entertains with unique vocals and catchy songs.
  • Over the Bar – This vibrant four-piece, predominantly Irish traditional group showcases their high-energy talent during live shows that also include folk, blues and soul.
  • Rollickin’ Rua – This fresh traditional Irish music ensemble from Ireland and Scotland create a cacophonous crescendo of music and song with their clash of Celtic cultures.
  • Aaron O’Sullivan – A singer-songwriter and guitarist from County Cork, O’Sullivan entertains with a mixture of traditional Irish ballads and modern Irish songs

Throughout the Hooley, guests can step up to one of Raglan Road’s 130-year-old imported-from-Ireland bars or grab a table for authentic contemporary Irish fare. A Trip Advisor “Certificate of Excellence” 2016 Hall of Fame honoree and 2014 “Best Restaurant” Orlando magazine readers’ poll award winner, Raglan Road is known for its beer-battered fish and chips, Shepherd’s pie with a contemporary twist, delectable seafood and desserts, plus gluten-free entrees.

The complete entertainment schedule will be posted at www.raglanroad.com and www.greatirishhooley.com closer to the event.

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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Brings Spooktacular Fun for the Entire Family to Magic Kingdom Park

With trick-or-treating throughout the park, bewitching  fireworks under a pumpkin moon, costumed characters on parade, a wickedly joyous Villain Spelltacular and much more, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party brings frightful fun to Magic Kingdom Park for a record 32 select nights, Aug. 25 – Nov. 1.

Mummies, daddies and their kids are in for a devilishly delightful time in this after-hours ticketed event guaranteed to make for boo-tiful memories. Not-So-Scary means just that – the party is family-friendly as only Disney can do and appropriate for children of all ages.

For ghouls and goblins eager to get the party started, Aug. 25 marks the earliest-ever launch date for the popular event.

Neighborhood trick-or-treating was never like this! Halloween handouts of sweets, treats, snacks and more happen throughout the park. Meantime, most of Magic Kingdom’s iconic attractions are available for all to enjoy.

Get your Halloween on! Dress-up is encouraged for ages 13 and under. Theme park rules for costume look and guest safety can be found at disneyworld.com/Halloween.

Among the eerily entertaining events:

  • Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. Chills, thrills and villains join in a wickedly fun celebration hosted by the Sanderson Sisters, a trio of witch sisters from Disney’s live action film Hocus Pocus. The mischievous sisters are joined by dancers, more Disney Villains and other-worldly visual effects. It’s a Halloween party not to be missed, and it takes place at Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage.
  • Happy HalloWishes. This fireworks spectacle high above the Cinderella Castle lights the night. Guests are encouraged to sing along with some of the most infamous Disney Villains, including Cruella de Vil, Jafar and Oogie Boogie. Creepy colors crawl over the castle, a spell is cast and it’s every guest for themselves.
  • Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade. Led by the Headless Horseman, it’s masquerade mania as favorite Disney characters dress up for the occasion and ghostly floats bring the frights and sounds of the season to Main Street, U.S.A. and other Magic Kingdom viewing locations.
  • Cadaver Dans Barbershop Quartet. Deadpan humor and other antics from this Dapper Dans-style “band” scare up the fun in Frontierland.

Admission for select nights to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party starts at $74 per person ages 10+, $69 ages 3-9. Hours 7 pm-midnight.

Guests bobbing for even more Halloween fun can sign up for the special-ticketed Happy HalloWishes Dessert Party. Ticketed Not-So-Scary guests can also pair the event with a table-service dining experience. Even Disney PhotoPass Service gets in the spirit. Who knows what surprise guest will magically materialize in your photos?

For reservations and other information, including rules governing costuming, guests can source all the delightfully spooky details of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disneyworld.com/Halloween or call 407/WDISNEY.

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ABC’s ‘American Idol’ Kicks Off Open Auditions at Walt Disney World Resort

ABC’s “American Idol” launches the start of its highly anticipated open auditions at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The iconic “American Idol” bus will roll into Disney Springs for auditions taking place on THURSDAY, AUGUST 17. “Idol”-winners Jordin Sparks, Kris Allen and Ruben Studdard will make a special appearance and greet lucky audition participants during the kickoff celebration of the search for America’s next superstar.

When the bus rolls away at the end of the day, Central Florida hopefuls will still have the chance to become a part of “Idol” history by auditioning via the “American Idol” pop-up audition kiosk, which will be at Disney Springs on FRIDAY, AUGUST 18, through FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15. During regular Disney Springs operating hours, visitors can create and submit their very own audition video at the kiosk.

Auditions will simultaneously kick off on the West Coast in Portland, Oregon. Please visit www.americanidol.com for more information and specific audition details, locations, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, terms and conditions.

“American Idol” is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group. Executive producers include FremantleMedia North America’s Trish Kinane and Jennifer Mullin, along with co-executive producer Megan Wolflick. FremantleMedia International distributes the series worldwide.

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