WDW Daily News

Check out some photos of the queue line leading up to the Chess Room for Millennium Falcon Smuggler’s Run. Check out all of the detailing the Imagineers did inside this attraction!

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has announced the lineup of the most highly anticipated presentations at D23 Expo 2019, August 23–25. The Disney Legends Awards Ceremony, hosted by Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger, will kick off the Expo on Friday morning, August 23. Later that same day, Disney+ will showcase its exciting slate of original films and series coming to the streaming service, set to launch in the U.S. on November 12. On Saturday morning, The Walt Disney Studios will give fans a sneak peek at their collection of world-class film labels, including Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm. And on Sunday morning, fans will get a preview of what’s in store at Disney Parks during a presentation hosted by Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Bob Chapek.

These Expo favorites will take place in “Hall D23,” the 6,800-seat venue located in Hall D of the Anaheim Convention Center. The schedule of Hall D23 Events and Presentations is as follows (all events subject to change and additional events to be announced in the coming weeks):

The Disney Legends Awards Ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 23. The ceremony, hosted by Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger, will once again honor those visionaries and artists who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy. This year’s recipients are: Wing Chao, Robert Downey Jr., Jon Favreau, James Earl Jones, Bette Midler, Kenny Ortega, Barnette Ricci, Robin Roberts, Diane Sawyer, Ming-Na Wen, and Hans Zimmer.

On Friday afternoon at 3:30 p.m., the highly anticipated streaming service Disney+ will give guests a first look at some of its original content including Lady and the Tramp, The Mandalorian, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and many more during this star-studded presentation.

The Walt Disney Studios will present a behind-the-scenes look at its blockbuster collection of upcoming films on Saturday, August 24, at 10 a.m. Fans will see what’s on the drawing board for the acclaimed filmmakers at Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios and get a peek at the exciting slate of live-action projects, from Disney to Marvel Studios to Star Wars. As always, attendees will be treated to exclusive footage, special guest appearances, and more!

On Sunday, August 25, at 10:30 a.m., step into the magical world of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products with Chairman Bob Chapek to find out what’s new and what’s next for resorts around the globe, including more about the transformational plans for Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.


Single-day tickets for Friday and Sunday of D23 Expo 2019 are available for $89 for one-day adult admission and $69 for children 3–9. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $77 for a one-day adult admission and $59 for children 3–9. Single-day Saturday tickets and three-day passes are sold out. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2019, visit D23Expo.com.

AboutD23 Expo 2019
D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks, and celebrities. For the latest D23 Expo 2019 news, visit D23expo.com. Presentations, talent, and schedule subject to change. To join the D23 Expo conversation, be sure to follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23Expo.

About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Take a look at day and nighttime photos of the Tie Echelon & The First Order Area of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland

An all-new, original outdoor musical theater production, “Tale of the Lion King,” debuts today at Disney California Adventure® Park. This new stage show celebrates the characters and music of Disney’s “The Lion King” in an imaginative and unique way. The lead narrator, Mwongozo (Swahili for “guide”) leads a troupe of 18 performers called the Storytellers of the Pride Lands in this adaptation. The performance is presented in a contemporary story-theater style that retells the tale through language, song and dance.

“The approach that we’ve taken with ‘Tale of the Lion King’ is that this is a story that was passed on from generation to generation, and now it’s come here to Disney California Adventure park,” said Susana Tubert, Creative Director, Disney Parks Live Entertainment. “The Storytellers of the Pride Lands have come to share this ancestral story of how a cub became a king.”

Enjoy new musical arrangements of favorite songs, including “Circle of Life,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Hakuna Matata,” among others. The live drumming and singing, along with the set and costumes all celebrate the cultural roots of this beloved Disney story. Check out our first peek below!

For a limited-time this summer, “Tale of the Lion King” will be performed several times daily at the Palisades Stage in Disney California Adventure Park.

Recently we had the opportunity to visit Anaheim, California for the opening of Disneyland’s STAR WARS GALAXY’S EDGE. We knew we wanted to stay close to the Disneyland Resort area without breaking the bank.

Family-owned and family-friendly THE KINGS INN ANAHEIM HOTEL was a fantastic choice. The location was terrific as it is just a few blocks away from the main gates of the Disneyland Resort property. We were able to walk the distance in under 15 minutes although it really seemed faster because we were so excited to get to the park. If you plan on coming to town for a convention, the Anaheim Convention Center was just a few blocks the other way Harbor Boulevard. If shopping and dining are more of an interest to you, the Anaheim GardenWalk is literally next door to the hotel. Again, you just can’t beat the location of THE KINGS INN ANAHEIM HOTEL.

When we checked in, we were greeted by the friendly, professional staff at the front desk. Walking in and being welcomed by a smile goes a long way after a tiring day of traveling. Our room was ready so we were quickly on our way. The hotel features 173 newly renovated non-smoking rooms and guest amenities like a free daily breakfast, free wifi, a laundry facility, a refreshing pool and a relaxing hot tub. We did not have a car, but there was plenty of free parking for those who drive in for their stay.

Our room was clean and modern looking. I loved the flooring and choice of colors. There were lots of accessible outlets for all of our electronics so that was a great touch with their renovations.

There is nothing worse than having to move furniture to find an outlet or charge your phone clear across the room by the sink. THE KINGS INN ANAHEIM HOTEL really thought about their guests when they designed the room. There was plenty of storage and the sink counter was quite spacious.

The shower was large, but there was no tub in our room so that may be a challenge if you are traveling with little ones. The air conditioner worked nicely and the room stayed a comfortable temperature. There was also a hair dryer, refrigerator, coffee maker, ironing board and iron, and flat screen television. Microwaves are available upon request.

THE KINGS INN ANAHEIM HOTEL had everything we were looking for in accommodations while visiting the Anaheim area…reasonable prices, a great location, amenities like free wifi and breakfast, and a friendly, professional staff. Whether you are traveling for a pleasure or business, THE KINGS INN ANAHEIM HOTEL is the place to stay. You won’t be disappointed.

Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge has some cool hidden features throughout the land with so many things written in Aurebesh. It takes some time to translate everything but one you do, you can see the amount of detail that Imagineers have put into things for this land. Take some time and have fun seeing what each means.

Now, more than ever, Walt Disney World® Resort is the place to make lifelong memories with family and friends. For the first time, you can purchase the new Summer One World Ticket as a great way to experience all that’s fresh and exciting at the resort’s four theme parks and two water parks, with six admissions for only $74 per admission (plus tax) – a total price of $444 (plus tax).* 

Starting today, you will be able to purchase the Summer One World Ticket. For a total price of $444 (plus tax), this ticket includes one admission to each of the Walt Disney World theme parks and water parks. Ticket details:

• Summer One World Tickets must be purchased between June 4, 2019, and Aug. 23, 2019.
• Each Summer One World Ticket includes six admissions – one admission to each of the four Walt Disney World theme parks and each of the two water parks.
• You have flexibility in how they use these tickets, including visiting more than one park per day.
• Tickets must be used June 4, 2019 – Aug. 28, 2019.

Pairing the Summer One World Ticket with a Disney resort hotel stay helps you remain immersed in magic for every moment of a Walt Disney World vacation. And, you can save up to 25 percent on rooms at select Disney resort hotels for stays most nights May 28, 2019, through Aug. 28, 2019, when booking through Aug. 28, 2019.** 

Summer 2019 will be an amazing time to visit Walt Disney World, with new experiences at all four theme parks:

• Anything can happen during Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration at Magic Kingdom® Park, including the new “Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party,” featuring those true originals, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.
• Party with Pixar pals at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® during the park’s 30^th anniversary year, featuring The Incredibles, Mike and Sulley from Disney•Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.;” Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the gang at the new Toy Story Land; and the new Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy that takes you into the world of Cars.
• Pandora – The World of Avatar comes to life each night at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park with bioluminescent fauna and flora. And now evenings in the park are about to be even more special with the May 24 planned debut of “Rivers of Light: We Are One,” introducing additional stunning imagery and familiar animal characters to the popular nighttime show on Discovery River. Also beginning May 24, the Tree of Life will awaken in a whole new way to honor the 25^th anniversary of “The Lion King,” with beautiful projections on the iconic tree featuring music and animation paying tribute to the classic film.
• “Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live!” will return to Epcot® this summer. Star-Lord and Gamora from the Guardians of the Galaxy films will take you on a musical journey through the cosmos, showcasing hits from Star-Lord’s Awesome Mix tapes. Live shows will take place daily from June 14 through Aug. 18.

*Ticket valid 6/4/19 – 8/28/19 for one admission to Magic Kingdom® Park, one admission to Epcot®, one admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, one admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, one admission to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, and one admission to Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park. Each park may be visited only once. Tickets are nonrefundable, nontransferable and exclude activities/events separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and other restrictions. Water parks are subject to rehabilitation, seasonal and weather closures. After expiration date, the price paid for a wholly unused ticket can be applied to the purchase of a new ticket with an equal or higher price. **The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Length-of-stay requirements may apply. Savings based on the non-discounted price of the same room. Additional per-adult charges may apply if there are more than two adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate, Deluxe and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required. Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

In fall 2020, Disney Cruise Line will enchant Guests of all ages with Halloween and winter holiday celebrations on sailings departing from New York, California, Texas and Florida. The 2020 fall season offers a range of itineraries that will visit a variety of tropical locales, with most sailings featuring that extra-special Disney holiday sparkle.

Sailings to Bermuda and Canada from New York

The Disney Magic returns to New York in October for sailings to Bermuda and Canada, all featuring Halloween on the High Seas. Three five-night cruises offer two days in Bermuda, giving Guests extra time to indulge in the island’s famous pink-sand beaches, abundant water activities, stylish shopping and distinctive blend of British and Caribbean culture. One five-night cruise will visit Canada’s charming seaport cities including Saint John, New Brunswick and Halifax, the provincial capital of Nova Scotia.

Baja and Mexican Riviera Voyages from California 

The Disney Wonder sets sail from San Diego in September, with Halloween on the High Seas cruises to Baja and the Mexican Riviera. Baja itineraries of two, three, four and five nights highlight the region’s famous beaches and water activities with calls on Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. One seven-night Mexican Riviera cruise, with additional stops in Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, completes the southern California sailings. On Nov. 6, the Disney Wonder departs San Diego for a 14-night Panama Canal crossing.

Bahamas and Caribbean Cruises from Texas          

From late November through December, the Disney Wonder will make Galveston, Texas, its homeport for Very MerrytimeCruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas, with four-, five-, six- and seven-night sailings. Caribbean itineraries include stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico and Grand Cayman. Bahamian cruises feature stops at Nassau, Bahamas and Key West, Florida, as well as Disney’s private island Castaway Cay.

Tropical Island Vacations from Florida

In fall 2020, the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will sail to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida. Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises will delight guests on most sailings. The Disney Fantasy will sail three-, four-, five-, six-, seven- and eight-night Bahamian and Caribbean itineraries. The Disney Dream will sail three- and four-night Bahamian cruises. Each of these cruises includes a day of fun in the sun on Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line Guests.

When to Book Fall 2020 Itineraries

Platinum, Gold or Silver Castaway Club members, can take advantage of the opportunity to book fall 2020 itineraries before they go on sale to the general public on June 13, 2019.  Book either online or by phone during the designated booking window:

• June 10, 2019: Platinum Members
• June 11, 2019: Platinum and Gold Members
• June 12, 2019: Platinum, Gold and Silver Members
• June 13, 2019: all Guests

Take a look at this clip of R2D2 Meeting Guests inside Droid Depot at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge