Disney Cruise Line Adds New Destinations to Incredible Lineup of Itineraries for Families to See the World in Summer 2019

In summer 2019, Disney Cruise Line will sail on new itineraries and to seven new ports in Europe, including a first-ever round-trip cruise from Rome and first-time visits to destinations in SwedenFranceSpainDenmark and Northern Ireland. Disney Cruise Line takes guests on a grand tour of Europe with visits to the Mediterranean in early summer and northern Europe in late summer. Plus, adventures continue with sailings to Alaska, the Caribbean and the Bahamas, including new cruise lengths aboard the Disney Fantasy.

Bookings open to the public on March 8, 2018. More details on 2019 itineraries can be found on the Ports and Itineraries for 2019 page of disneycruise.com.

Read more

Share this:

Watch – Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 Official Teaser Trailer

Watch the teaser trailer for Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2. See the film in theatres this Thanksgiving.

“Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2” leaves Litwak’s video arcade behind, venturing into the uncharted, expansive and thrilling world of the internet—which may or may not survive Ralph’s wrecking. Video game bad guy Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) and fellow misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman) must risk it all by traveling to the world wide web in search of a replacement part to save Vanellope’s video game, Sugar Rush.

In way over their heads, Ralph and Vanellope rely on the citizens of the internet—the netizens—to help navigate their way, including a webite entrepreneur named Yesss (voice of Taraji P. Henson), who is the head algorithm and the heart and soul of trend-making site “BuzzzTube.” Directed by Rich Moore (“Zootopia,” “Wreck-It Ralph”) and Phil Johnston (co-writer “Wreck-It Ralph,” “Cedar Rapids,” co-writer “Zootopia,”), and produced by Clark Spencer (“Zootopia,” “Wreck-It Ralph,” “Bolt”), “Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-Ralph 2” hits theaters on Nov. 21, 2018.

Share this:

Photo – X-wing Starfighter Under Development for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

STAR WARS: GALAXY’S EDGE — X-wing Starfighter pictured under development for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will transport guests to a remote trading port on the edge of space, where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life. The land will open at both Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland in California in 2019. (Disney)

Share this:

10 Ways to Have Fun with a Friend During Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort

The first-ever Pixar Fest will take place April 13 through September 3 at the Disneyland Resort, and there’s no better time to connect with a friend than during this ultimate celebration of friendship and beyond! Here are 10 ways to have fun together during Pixar Fest.

  1. Watch the new “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” from all four iconic locations. The timeless stories of Pixar friends will come to life through dazzling pyrotechnics and immersive projections at four Disneyland Park locations: Sleeping Beauty Castle, the Rivers of America, “it’s a small world” and Main Street, U.S.A. Guests who watch from all four locations will enjoy a different experience each time.
  1. Share a tasty snack. No Disneyland Resort celebration is complete without the limited-time food and beverage offerings – and Pixar Fest will be no exception. Guests can share a treat with a buddy, or better yet, grab a selection of treats and sample them with a group of friends or family.
  1. Feel the rhythm of the night during “Paint the Night” parade at Disney California Adventure Park. The popular parade makes its return when Pixar Fest begins April 13, and coming in June is a dazzling new float featuring “The Incredibles.” Guests will experience the magic of “Paint the Night” all over again when it appears for the first time at Disney California Adventure.
  1. Show off Pixar-inspired style. Photo opportunities can even go to infinity and beyond when guests express their Pixar style through character-inspired outfits. Guest will find photo-worthy locations such as Pixar-themed topiaries in Downtown Disney and encounters with their favorite Pixar characters throughout Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks.
  1. Count down to fun with the return of “Pixar Play Parade.” This energetic parade will inspire the spirit of friendship as it makes its way through Disneyland for the first time, featuring three new parade story elements.
  1. *Save with the Southern California resident ticket offer. Friends and family who are Southern California residents will save up to 25 percent on select multi-day tickets when they experience Pixar Fest before May 24. Visit Disneyland.com to book and learn more.
  1. Catch up on the classics at the Pixar Shorts film festival. Guests will rediscover the amazing Pixar Shorts on the big screen at the Sunset Showcase Theater in Hollywood Land in Disney California Adventure. Throughout Pixar Fest, the theater will feature rotating favorites such as “For the Birds” and “Lava”.
  1. Give a buddy a token of your friendship. Pixar Fest will give guests the chance to celebrate friendship with new merchandise, including an exclusive Pixar Fest charm bracelet. With multiple bracelet options and a variety of charms with fun friendship messages and favorite Pixar characters, guests can mix and match for themselves or a friend.
  1. Discover favorite Pixar stories at Pixar Pier. Opening June 23, Pixar Pier will be a newly transformed land at Disney California Adventure featuring four whimsical neighborhoods representing beloved Pixar stories with newly themed attractions, food and merchandise.
  1. Race alongside the Incredibles. Also opening June 23, the Incredicoaster will be a super combination of character figures, lighting and special effects that bring the action to life as the Parr family races alongside guests in an attempt to catch baby Jack-Jack.

*SoCal Resident Ticket Offer: Valid on 2-Day and 3-Day Disneyland Resort Theme Park tickets, and savings based on non-discounted price for the same ticket at the Disneyland Resort Main Entrance ticket booths. Valid only for Southern California residents within ZIP codes 90000-93599 and Northern Baja California residents within ZIP codes 21000-22999; proof of residency is required for purchase and admission. Tickets expire May 24, 2018 and are not valid before January 8, 2018. Blockout days of 3/23/18 – 4/8/18 apply. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. May purchase up to 5 tickets per person per day with valid ID. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use and exclude activities/events separately priced. Offer may not be combined with other ticket discounts or promotions. Subject to capacity, restrictions and change without notice.

Share this:

Video – Extra Magic Hours at Walt Disney World

Are you looking to add some extra magic to your day? As a Guest of select Walt Disney World® Resort hotels, you can with Extra Magic Hours! Get a closer look in this video!

Share this:

Pixar Pier Opens June 23, 2018 with New Incredicoaster, Inspired by ‘The Incredibles,’ at Disney California Adventure Park

The wonderful worlds of Pixar get a new home at Disney California Adventure Park when Pixar Pier opens on June 23, 2018, transforming the area that is now Paradise Pier with the thrilling, new Incredicoaster, four new imaginative neighborhoods, the new Lamplight Lounge, plus exciting entertainment, themed food and beverage, and merchandise. Guests will experience Pixar stories and characters in incredible new ways on this seaside waterfront at the Disneyland Resort.

Pixar Pier, a permanent land along the southern shore of Paradise Bay, debuts during Pixar Fest, a limited-time event that begins April 13, 2018. As a new land, Pixar Pier introduces the exciting new Incredicoaster and Lamplight Lounge.

The first-ever Pixar Fest, a celebration of friendship throughout the Disneyland Resort, begins April 13, 2018. For a limited time, guests will enjoy the new fireworks show, “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular;” the return of “Pixar Play Parade,” appearing for the first time at Disneyland Park; the return of “Paint the Night,” performing this time at Disney California Adventure, and new Pixar elements added to each of those parades. The fun continues with friends from Disney•Pixar films, creatively themed food and beverage items and merchandise that’s exclusive to Pixar Fest.

At Pixar Pier, guests will enter Disney California Adventure’s newest land through a dazzling Pixar Pier marquee – topped with the iconic Pixar lamp later in the year. Beloved Pixar stories are introduced in this land through four whimsical neighborhoods. The first neighborhood is inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles” which opens with the new Incredicoaster. Permanently transformed from the attraction that was California Screamin’, Incredicoaster invites guests into a mid-century-modern-style loading area where they will board vehicles with a distinctive, new look. New character moments, new scenes and special effects, and an exciting musical score connect the attraction’s story to Pixar’s “The Incredibles 2,” which opens in theaters June 15, 2018.

The neighborhood inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story” includes the popular Toy Story Mania! attraction. Another new neighborhood is inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “Inside Out,” and a new “Inside Out” family-friendly attraction is scheduled to open in that neighborhood at a later date.

A fourth new neighborhood celebrates a collection of guest-favorite Pixar stories. Mickey’s Fun Wheel transforms into a newly-themed Pixar attraction, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful sights of Pixar Pier from 24 new gondolas – each one decorated with a beloved Pixar pal. The midway games are also inspired by Pixar characters, including favorites from “A Bug’s Life,” “La Luna” and “WALL·E”.

Another exciting location opening at Pixar Pier on June 23 is the new Lamplight Lounge, an elegant yet fun gathering place for the entire family at the entrance of Pixar Pier. Lamplight Lounge will serve California casual gastro-pub cuisine that is playfully presented, along with unique signature cocktails and a guest-favorite: Lobster Nachos. The seaside lounge will contain a full bar with picturesque waterfront views of Paradise Bay from both upstairs and downstairs. At night, outdoor seating will provide views of the illuminated Pixar Pier and “World of Color.”

Lamplight Lounge celebrates the creativity, inspirations and personalities of the artists and storytellers who have brought Pixar stories to life. Guests will discover the artistic marks that Pixar “regulars” have left throughout the lounge, including concept art, a quick sketch on a napkin, knick-knacks and collectible toys of beloved Pixar characters. (Prior to its transformation, this location was Ariel’s Grotto restaurant and the Cove Bar.)

The remaining areas of the original Paradise Pier – including Paradise Gardens, Silly Symphony Swings, Jumping Jellyfish, Goofy’s Sky School, Golden Zephyr and The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure – become a new land called Paradise Park.

Share this:

Disney CEO Hints at ‘Black Panther’ Theme Park Addition

Black Panther is “an important moment in culture,” Disney CEO Bob Iger told Wall Street analysts on Monday. He even suggested there could be a ride based on the movie some day.

Full Story

Share this:

Disney Donates $1 Million to Youth STEM Program in Celebration of BLACK PANTHER

In celebration of the record-breaking success of Marvel Studios’ BLACK PANTHER, The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) is donating $1 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). The donation will help expand Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s youth STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) programs, supporting the high-tech skills that were a major theme in the plot of BLACK PANTHER and are essential in helping youth succeed.

“Marvel Studios’ Black Panther is a masterpiece of movie making and has become an instant cultural phenomenon, sparking discussion, inspiring people young and old, and breaking down age-old industry myths,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “It is thrilling to see how inspired young audiences were by the spectacular technology in the film, so it’s fitting that we show our appreciation by helping advance STEM programs for youth, especially in underserved areas of the country, to give them the knowledge and tools to build the future they want.”

Boys & Girls Clubs of America will use this one-time grant to further develop its existing national STEM curriculum, and establish new STEM Centers of Innovation in 12 communities across the country. The curriculum and new centers will serve and inspire kids and teens, with an emphasis in the following communities: Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; Chicago, IL; Harlem, NY; Hartford, CT; Memphis, TN; New Orleans, LA; Oakland, CA; Orlando, FL; Philadelphia, PA; Washington, DC; Watts, CA.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Centers of Innovation provide youth with hands-on, advanced technologies that stimulate creative approaches to STEM exploration, including 3-D printers, robotics, high-definition video production and conferencing equipment. In addition, a fully dedicated STEM expert will offer individual and group support, using real-world applications to help Club members develop their STEM skills and critical thinking.

“From hands-on interactive programs to critical thinking, Boys & Girls Clubs of America is committed to providing thousands of young people with the tools they need to prepare for a great future,” said Jim Clark, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “Thanks to Disney’s support, we can expand our outreach and allow more youth to find their passions and discover STEM careers.”

Helping children and teens learn new skills for the future, like STEM, is a focus area of The Walt Disney Company’s social responsibility efforts. The company is dedicated to delivering comfort, happiness, opportunity and inspiration to children and families around the world.

Share this:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Honors Two Decades of Wild Encounters With 20th Anniversary Celebration

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will mark its 20th anniversary on Earth Day, April 22, with more wild adventures than ever before – kicking off spring and setting the stage for an incredible summer filled with all-new events and experiences at  the Walt Disney World Resort.

Commemorating the milestone year, the 500-acre adventure park will offer animal encounters, family-friendly activities, specialty desserts and more during an expanded Party for the Planet celebration April 22-May 5.

Over the two-week “Party for the Planet” celebration, guests can attend conservation talks by animal-care experts and participate in enhanced interactions with some of the more than 2,000 animals that make their home at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited park.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch will take center stage for the year-long 20th anniversary. It’s home to fun educational exhibits and activities that help create awareness of animal issues. During the 20thanniversary, Rafiki’s Planet Watch will offer backstage experiences with experts where guests can learn about animal nutrition, visit the veterinary hospital and hear how Disney promotes global wildlife conservation.

Guests can also commemorate their visits to the theme park with special photo opportunities.  They can step into an oversized picture frame celebrating the park’s 20th anniversary. Other photo frames support Disney’s “Reverse the Decline,” an initiative created to help protect 10 threatened animal species. One recent success of the program was the birth of two critically endangered Sumatran Tiger Cubs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Just for kids is the chance to earn a limited-edition badge as part of the Wilderness Explorer program. The badge is one of many that youngsters can earn by completing fun activities throughout the park.

Party for the Planet will also include six different Tiffins Talks – themed dinners hosted by animal experts at Tiffins, the theme park’s signature, full-service restaurant. Watch the Disney Parks Blog for more information.

The 20th anniversary fun also includes a commemorative adventure guide, limited-edition merchandise, and a special-edition print created by renowned Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde. He will be available on April 22 from 1-4 p.m. to sign prints at Discovery Trading Company. Quantities are limited. For more information on Party for the Planet, visit Disneyworld.com/PartyforthePlanet.

Here are other experiences and adventures rolling out in 2018 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom:

  • April 22 will mark the debut of a brand-new show, UP! A Great Bird Adventure featuring Russell and Dug from the Disney•Pixar animated comedy-adventure film “UP.” The show will give guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his fuzzy friend Dug in a new adventure that includes encounters with exotic birds from around the world. This free-flying show will be performed multiple times daily.
  • A “dino-tastic” celebration with Donald and his friends will also premiere Memorial Day weekend in DinoLand, U.S.A. This dinosaur-themed party celebrates Donald Duck’s discovery that his bird ancestors were actually dinosaurs. DinoLand U.S.A. will feature colorful new décor and playful character greetings with rarely seen pals like Scrooge McDuck, Launchpad McQuack and more. A DJ-powered dance party will mix tunes from the truck-o-saurus stage, capping the nighttime festivities.
  • Memorial Day 2018 commemorates the one-year anniversary of Pandora – The World of Avatar. Here, travelers are transported to a mystical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and breathtaking new experiences. Inspired by the blockbuster film, AVATAR, the epic land invites guests to explore a glowing landscape, encounter a larger-than-life Na’vi Shaman of Songs and soar on the back of a banshee.

For more information about the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, visit DisneyWorld.com/AnimalKingdom.

Share this:

Victoria & Albert’s Receives Prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star and AA Five Diamond Awards

Two prestigious awards have just been bestowed this month on Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. For the 18th consecutive year, this Walt Disney World® Resort restaurant has received the AAA Five Diamond Award and, for the first time ever, the coveted 2018 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award.

There are only 68 Five Diamond restaurants in North America, and only 64 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurants out of over 1,600 restaurants across the globe. Victoria & Albert’s now stands as the sole restaurant in the state of Florida to receive both the AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards.

AAA Diamond Ratings represent a combination of overall food, service, décor and ambiance. A Five Diamond restaurant provides leading-edge cuisine of the finest ingredients, uniquely prepared by an acclaimed chef, served by expert service staff led by a maître d’ in extraordinary surroundings.

Forbes Travel Guide Star Ratings verify luxury and represent outstanding, iconic properties with virtually flawless service and amazing facilities. Using the most exacting standards in the industry, this year’s list evaluates properties in over 160 destinations across 50 countries.

Every night, Victoria & Albert’s brings guests the ultimate in fine dining with classic Victorian elegance, haute American cuisine and an atmosphere of refined opulence. The esteemed restaurant features three unique dining experiences: the main dining room with the choice of a 7-course menu or 10 course Chef’s Tasting Menu; the intimate Queen Victoria’s Room offers a 10-course Chef’s Tasting menu with tableside presentation and optional wine pairings; and the highly sought-after 8-seat Chef’s Table located in the restaurants kitchen, where guests can get an exclusive look at their dishes being crafted by the culinary team. Victoria & Albert’s also has an incredible wine cellar with over 700 wines from over 35 regions.

Congratulations belong to Executive Chef Scott Hunnel, Chef de Cuisine Aimée Rivera, Master Pastry Chef Erich Herbitschek, Maître d’Hôtel Israel Pérez and the entire Victoria & Albert’s team for earning these illustrious awards.

To book reservations for your Clients, call 407-WDW-DVNA (407-939-3862) or go online to book the Dining Room or Queen Victoria’s Room up to 180 days in advance. For more information, visit www.victoria-alberts.com.

Share this: