Slinky Dog Dash, coming to disney’s Hollywood Studios, will be a family coaster attraction you’ll want to ride again and again! The attraction features a coaster track that Andy has built all over his backyard using his Mega Coaster Play Kit, but as you know, he has a pretty amazing imagination, so he’s combined it with some of his other toys.
Disney Conservation Fund Celebrates 20-Year Anniversary by Unveiling New Initiative to Protect the Planet
The Disney Conservation Fund (DCF), in honor of its 20th anniversary, announced a targeted philanthropic strategy to help protect the planet by collaborating with leading nonprofit organizations that will help threatened wildlife and inspire a lifelong love of nature in young people. The new initiative, called Reverse the Decline, Increase the Time, is aimed at reversing the decline of 10 threatened species through scientific research, community engagement, and increasing the time kids spend in nature to inspire them to care for the planet.
As part of Reverse the Decline, Disney is supporting a network of leading conservation nonprofit organizations to develop strategic plans that aim to reverse the decline of 10 animals: elephants, butterflies, coral reefs, tamarin monkeys, great apes, sea turtles, sharks and rays, cranes, rhinos and tigers. These organizations employ experts who work with each species to address the protection of habitats, collect critical population data, and develop conservation and education programs in critical ecosystems around the world. Additionally, this initiative provides opportunities for Disney to apply the expertise and talents of its employees and cast members to help reverse the decline of these animals. Already, scientists, educators and veterinarians on Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team are collaborating with each organization to help protect threatened species and their habitats.
Increase the Time, the second part of the two-pronged commitment, comes on the heels of a 2012 Disney initiative to connect 35 million kids and families with nature experiences by 2015. Disney reached the target a year early based on its efforts to connect kids with nature through support from the Disney Conservation Fund to nonprofit organizations and nature experiences in Disney Parks and Resorts. The new Increase the Time initiative amplifies the philanthropic component of these efforts to fund projects with leading nonprofit organizations that engage young people in discovering the magic of nature and inspiring them to protect the planet.
Since 1995, DCF has provided $40 million in grants to nonprofit organizations in 115 countries.
Every Live Action Remake Coming Up From Disney
Jon Favreau’s ‘The Jungle Book’ looks primed to be an enormous hit having taken $103.6m (£73.1m) on its debut at US box office, the second largest opening weekend total for an April release ever.
Invictus Games Orlando 2016 Announce Unforgettable Closing Ceremony Program
The Invictus Games Orlando 2016, presented by Jaguar Land Rover and taking place from May 8-12 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort, today announced a lineup for the event’s Closing Ceremony on May 12 featuring world-renowned talent and uplifting performances.
“The Closing Ceremony will be an inspiring event that honors the Invictus spirit and recognizes our competitors,” said Ken Fisher, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Invictus Games Orlando 2016. “Stacked with incredible musical performances by internationally-renowned singers and songwriters, heartening stories of courage and triumph from servicemen and women, the ceremony will truly be the event of a lifetime. I encourage fans to buy their tickets now before they sell out – you won’t want to miss this.”
The Closing Ceremony will feature musical performances by international popstar Rachel Platten, who will perform the song of the Games and her No. 1 single, “Fight Song.” The lineup also includes best-selling country vocal group of the past decade Rascal Flatts, American sensation and former “American Idol” winner Phillip Phillips, Florida native and Grammy-nominated hip-hop superstar Flo Rida, “The Voice” Season 9 winner Jordan Smith and the first nationally-recognized wounded warrior band, Vetted.
During the ceremony, Prince Harry will recognize competitors for their achievements over the past four days and lead the handover of the Invictus Games flag to the Invictus Games Toronto 2017 organising committee. In addition, the audience will hear firsthand from U.S. Team Captain, retired Army Captain Will Reynolds, as he shares his amazing personal journey. Captain Reynolds ultimately lost his left leg above the knee after an IED in Iraq and endured 26 surgeries. Since his injury, Captain Reynolds has become a husband, a father to four, earned a Masters of Business Administration and Masters of Public Health, embarked on a career with Deloitte and become a world class adaptive sports athlete.
“As the Games come to a close, I am honored by the opportunity to share my story,” said U.S. Team Captain Reynolds. “I want to let others know that the road to recovery is possible, no matter what injury or illness stand in the way.”
Thousands of friends, family and fans will come together to reflect on a memorable four days of competition and celebrate the accomplishments, victories and unbreakable spirits of more than 500 competitors representing 14 nations at the Closing Ceremony, where every competitor will be recognized on stage with a medallion of achievement. Two individual awards will also be given by the Games’ presenting partners, Jaguar Land Rover, at the Closing Ceremony.
“The Closing Ceremony is an opportunity for us to celebrate a week of achievement, teamwork and friendship,” said Christopher Laue, one of the Executive Producers of the Invictus Games 2016 Opening and Closing Ceremonies. “The competitors’ commitment and determination has been absolutely awe-inspiring and will stay in fans’ hearts in the years to come. I hope Americans from across the nation will show their support by purchasing tickets and attending this high energy, eye-opening and heartwarming event.”
Spectators, fans and loved ones will watch the Closing Ceremony at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort in Kissimmee, Fla, while audiences around the world can watch the event live on ESPN 2. Fans can purchase tickets to this unforgettable and one-of-a-kind event for $45 each at http://invictusgames2016.org/tickets/.
The Invictus Games Orlando 2016 Opening and Closing Ceremonies are co-presented by Jaguar Land Rover and the Walt Disney Company and are being produced by continuumLIVE and Donaldson Creative with Christopher Laue and Sara Donaldson jointly performing the roles of Executive Producer and Creative Director.
Founder of Donaldson Creative, Donaldson most recently Executive Produced the Rugby World Cup Opening Ceremony in London, the Invictus Games London 2014 Ceremonies and along with Laue was Co-Chief Operating Officer of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games Ceremonies. Laue, of continuumLIVE, most recently served as Executive Producer for the Lima 2019 Handover Segment at the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games, the Salvation Army International Congress, the Los Angeles Music Center 50th Anniversary Spectacular and the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Veracruz 2014 Central American and Caribbean Games.
Photos – Cactus Road Rally Area Plants at Epcot’s 2016 Flower & Garden Festival – Part 3
Take a look at photos of the Cactus Road Rally Area Plants at Epcot’s 2016 Flower & Garden Festival – Part 3.
Adventures by Disney Introduces New 2017 Itineraries
Adventures by Disney, a leader in guided group travel worldwide, recently revealed new itineraries for 2017, including an expansion of popular river cruising vacations with AmaWaterways, as well as enhancements to family journeys to China and Australia.
New European River Cruise Sailings on the Rhine River
Sailing with AmaWaterways, the premier luxury river cruise line, Adventures by Disney river cruises offer a new way for families to experience the heart of Europe in a way that is active, immersive and easy. In addition to offering a second season of Danube River sailings, Adventures by Disney will expand offerings to include sailings along the Rhine River in 2017. The new Rhine River itinerary gives adventurous travelers the opportunity to experience the beauty of four countries – France, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.
Combining the award-winning service and luxury of AmaWaterways with the proven family travel expertise of Adventures by Disney, these river cruise sailings offer a vacation experience that is all-inclusive and hassle-free. Designed with guests of all ages in mind, travelers can customize their trip to fit their family’s needs by choosing from a variety of activity options offered at ports along the Rhine River and onboard each day.
“Last year, river cruising itineraries on the Danube River sold out rapidly, proving that families are eager to enjoy this immersive and luxurious new way to travel through Europe with Adventures by Disney,” said Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Adventures by Disney. “For 2017 we dreamt even bigger, expanding our offerings to include not only the already popular Danube sailings, but also exciting new experiences along the Rhine River. Here we can make unforgettable vacation memories a reality for even more travelers by offering family river cruise sailings that are effortless, personalized and exhilarating.”
Guests will sail on the Rhine River aboard the all-new, 170-passenger AmaKristina, a river cruise ship being custom built by AmaWaterways with families in mind. Family-friendly design elements include sets of connecting staterooms and suites, some of which accommodate three- and four-person families, and other details that lend themselves to luxury family vacations. Adventures by Disney has also worked closely with AmaWaterways to reimagine shipboard spaces and activities, offering unique programming for kids, teens and adults.
Highlights of the eight-day/seven-night adventures include:
- Ride a toboggan, hike along a waterfall or zipline through the Black Forest.
- Visit the famous storybook Heidelberg Castle.
- Enjoy tubing, snow biking, curling and more at Germany’s first indoor ski hall.
- Explore the Alsace Region of France by canoe or on horseback.
- Get hands-on during clog painting and a cheese making demonstration in Holland.
- Bike along the Rhine River, within the German wine countryside, through towns and beyond.
- Savor unique local dining, including Swiss fondue, a French macaron cooking class, German chocolate tasting and more.
A post-cruise land package is also available in Amsterdam at the conclusion of the Rhine sailings, offering a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk and a private farewell dinner.
“AmaWaterways is ecstatic to continue working with Adventures by Disney, further expanding the options for family travelers seeking a unique way to explore Europe,” said Kristin Karst, co-owner and executive vice president of AmaWaterways. “A Rhine River cruise with Adventures by Disney, aboard the beautiful AmaKristina, will offer families an immersive, unforgettable experience. They will have the chance to witness firsthand the beauty, history and culture of the region’s most breathtaking destinations, while creating memories that will last a lifetime!”
Enhanced Itineraries to Visit Shanghai Disney Resort in China, Gold Coast in Australia
Also new for 2017 are enhancements to Adventures by Disney vacations to China and Australia. With the June opening of Shanghai Disney Resort, the China itinerary has been reimagined to include a visit to this exciting new destination. Here Adventures by Disney guests will explore the newest Disney theme park with VIP tour guides, offering a truly world-class experience. In Australia, travelers will now enjoy time on the beautiful Gold Coast, including kayaking on Bryon Bay, whale and dolphin spotting, an excursion to Mt. Tamborine and more.
New United States Vacations Allow Travelers to Discover America
The new 2017 itineraries join an existing lineup of more than 35 other guided group vacations to destinations on six continents, including three recently announced vacations to the diverse United States locales of Central Florida, Montana, and Washington, D.C. & Philadelphia. Debuting in summer 2016, each of these weeklong trips is filled with activities unique to the destinations. In Central Florida, families will enjoy unprecedented backstage access and VIP experiences at Walt Disney World Resort, airboat through Florida marshlands and thrill to a visit to the “Space Coast.” Montana offers glamorous camping, or “glamping,” near Yellowstone National Park and a stay at a dude ranch in Big Sky. And American history comes alive during a visit to the nation’s capital, and the United States’ first capital city.
Whether travelers are setting sail in Europe, exploring exotic destinations in far-off lands or savoring the majesty of America’s national parks, Adventures by Disney offers exceptional service and hands-on, active experiences that appeal to travelers of all ages.
Bookings for all 2017 vacations open on April 22, 2016. For more details and to book reservations, call 1-800-543-0865 or contact a travel agent.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Introduces the Magic of Nature After Dark Starting Memorial Day Weekend
Nightfall brings more mystery and majesty to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park as guests discover rich new experiences under the stars. Whether riding Kilimanjaro Safaris at sunset, rollicking aboard rafts on Kali River Rapids at twilight, dancing alongside African performers in Harambe, or reveling in a live musical celebration of Disney’s new hit film The Jungle Book, guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom can enjoy the park’s captivating new vibe and tone when it expands its offerings with extended hours and enhanced entertainment, scheduled to begin Memorial Day Weekend.
“Disney’s Animal Kingdom is such a majestic and beautiful park,” said George A. Kalogridis, President of Walt Disney World Resort, “With new experiences and new ways to experience favorite attractions, nighttime at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be a can’t-miss experience for Walt Disney World guests.”
Like the animal world itself, Disney’s Animal Kingdom continues to evolve since opening on Earth Day in 1998. As the park shifts to nighttime, a magical ambiance emerges, inviting guests to share in its wonder with heightened senses. At nightfall the sounds of rustling foliage, animal calls, and colorful prayer flags flapping in the wind become even more distinct. Softly lit, once-familiar paths now cast in shadows make every twist and turn a new discovery. Most of the park’s popular attractions will remain open for guests to enjoy after dark.
The animal encounters shift at twilight, too, as darkness camouflages the boundaries between wildlife and guests. The kingdom comes alive with intriguing nighttime animal behaviors — never disappointing humanity’s enduring fascination with creatures of our planet.
Highlights of new experiences:
The Tree of Life Awakens
The theme park’s iconic Tree of Life will undergo extraordinary “awakenings” throughout the evening as the animal spirits are brought to life by magical fireflies that reveal colorful stories of wonder and enchantment. High-tech projections of nature scenes take on a magical quality as they appear to dramatically emanate from within the Tree of Life.
Kilimanjaro Safaris after Dark
Each evening, the popular Kilimanjaro Safaris daytime experience is artfully bathed in the glow of sunset with special lighting allowing guests to explore this attraction well into the night. During the expedition, guests can now encounter the nighttime behavior of the wildlife and better tune in to the unique vocalization of the animals. Plus, there are two new species to discover: African wild dogs and hyenas.
The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic
For the summer, Discovery River becomes the stage for music and pageantry in a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney’s hit live-action film The Jungle Book. Jungle Book: Alive with Magic is a live show filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence.
Harambe Wildlife Parti
When the sun sets, the popular Village of Harambe will become a hot spot with the new Harambe Wildlife Parti. Here, “party animals” can dance alongside a variety of entertainers and local street musicians, and enjoy the lively rhythms of African music. Guests can also partake in exotic foods and libations, and explore the diverse wares of village artisans and merchants in the vibrant marketplace.
Discovery Island Carnivale
The spirited community of Discovery Island has come together to celebrate their love of the natural world with the Discovery Island Carnivale. This nightly experience will captivate guests with lively music, jubilant dance, vibrant costumes, stilt walkers and tasty culinary creations — winding from one end of the island to the other.
Tiffins Signature Restaurant
In addition to the diverse new entertainment offerings, guests will enjoy Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s new signature eatery, Tiffins. Open for both lunch and dinner, this new signature dining experience will celebrate the art of traveling and include waterfront views from both indoor and outdoor seating areas. “Tiffin” is an Indian English word meaning midday meal or type of container used to carry food while traveling.
New Adventures with Favorite Attractions
Most attractions remain open at nightfall, and will shine like never before. At sundown, Kali River Rapids will reveal mysterious twists and turns throughout the rainforest with dramatic and drenching fun. Expedition Everest thrills adventurers as it lurches forward and backward through the icy peaks of the Himalayas. At night, the majestic mountain challenges trekkers to an evening ride revealing breathtaking views of the Animal Kingdom canopied by starlight. Amidst the colorful midway games at Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama in DinoLand U.S.A., the thrills turn up aboard the zany Triceratop Spin or Primeval Whirl under the lights.
More Magic to Come with “Rivers of Light”
The nighttime will grow even more magical with the premiere of the majestic nighttime jewel, “Rivers of Light.” This illuminating musical experience – currently in development with a premiere date to be announced soon – will celebrate the magic of animals, humans and the natural world with a blend of performers, floating lanterns and theatrical animal imagery.
On the natural stage of Discovery River, guests will marvel as a timeless custom comes to life before their eyes in a stirring performance. The ceremony begins with the arrival of a pair of mystical hosts, two complementary forces who come to the river bearing gifts of light. They set out from the shore on elaborate lantern vessels, engaging in a dramatic dance of water and light to summon the animal spirits. With these storytellers as guides, the wonders of “Rivers of Light” unfold, building to a magnificent finale with bursts of light as animal images soar to the heavens– signifying the ancient belief that when animals passed from one world to another they danced in the sky and became beautiful rivers of light.
To create “Rivers of Light,” Imagineers and Disney Creative Entertainment are collaborating with experts including award-winning master designer Michael Curry. Film composer Don L. Harper created the soaring musical score for the nighttime show, which also includes an original song by noted composer Mark Mancina. Disney also collaborated with the award-winning filmmakers at Disneynature to bring never-before-seen footage, telling dramatic and compelling stories from the animal world to the show.
Wisconsin’s Jason Ryf Cruises to Inaugural Star Wars Half Marathon Victory at Walt Disney World Resort
After finishing second at the runDisney Star Wars half marathon at Disneyland Resort last year, Jason Ryf summoned even more of The Force on Sunday to win the inaugural Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side at Walt Disney World Resort.
Ryf, 45, from Oshkosh, Wisconsin won the 13.1-mile race through Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 1:13:39. Marc Burget of Jacksonville, Florida was second (1:14:38) and Chris Trebilcock of Tampa, Florida was third (1:15:27).
Katie McGrath was the first female runner to cross the finish line, covering the course in 1:24:05. Elizabeth Meadows-Harland of Nashville, Tennessee was second (1:26:36) and Kim Hunger of Antelope, California, was third (1:28:36).
For Ryf, conquering the race from a galaxy far, far away held a lot of sentimental value. Ryf said he grew up watching the Star Wars saga and is a real fan of the franchise. He finished second at the inaugural Star Wars Half Marathon at Disneyland Resort in 2015 with a time of 1:10:56. His time Sunday was a tad slower, yet he managed to land in the winner’s circle.
“I love Star Wars. I saw the original movies in the theaters. Ever since I was a kid, Star Wars has just been awesome,’’ Ryf said. “So coming here and winning is pretty good. Being able to celebrate Disney and Star Wars and the race all together is a pretty nice time.’’
The race was the newest addition to the runDisney series which involves nine races at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and, for the first time later this year, Disneyland Paris. The next runDisney race weekend is the Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend presented by PANDORA Jewelry (May 5-8) at Disneyland Resort.
The Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side involved several family-friendly events, including a Health and Fitness Expo with the latest in fitness apparel, running gear and high tech gadgets, the Star Wars 5K, the Star Wars 10K and the Dark Side Challenge, which involved running the 10K and the half marathon on consecutive days. There were also Star Wars characters along the course and opportunities for runners to pose with them before and after the races.
Sail Through the Kingdom of Arendelle on Frozen Ever After
For the first time in forever, guests can explore the kingdom of Arendelle when “Frozen Ever After” opens in the Norway Pavilion in summer 2016. This family-friendly adventure picks up after the events in the blockbuster hit “Frozen” and celebrates a “Summer Snow Day.”
A stone archway entrance greets guests to the kingdom of Arendelle. Queen Elsa, Princess Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, trolls and Marshmallow join them on their boat journey through the frozen willow forest, past Troll Valley and up to the North Mountain to Elsa’s ice palace.
After disembarking, guests can meet the regal sisters in the cozy Royal Sommerhus. Inspired by a cabin in the countryside of Norway, the sisters have opened their summer home for visitors.
Fun Facts:
- Frozen Ever After is the first Frozen-themed attraction and the Royal Sommerhus is Elsa’s and Anna’s permanent meet and greet at Disney Parks.
- Guests will witness Elsa’s ice magic on Frozen Ever After.
- Composers Bobby Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez created new lyrics to the cherished Frozen film songs.
- All of the original voice talent from the film returned and recorded dialogue and songs for the attraction
- WDI traveled to Norway to research architecture, décor and artifacts; guests will find their inspiration in the Royal Sommerhus.
- The design of Royal Sommerhus and the surrounding area is modeled after a traditional Norwegian cabin in Trondheim.
Fact Sheet: FastPass+
At Walt Disney World Resort, we are always looking for ways to help guests further customize their experience and make it even easier to create unforgettable moments with their families and friends. Since its start as a vacation innovation, Disney FASTPASS has been a great way to save time and enjoy Disney attractions with little or no wait. In 2014, Walt Disney World Resort took FASTPASS fun one step further — at no additional cost to guests — with FastPass+.
All guests can reserve access to favorite FastPass+ attractions and entertainment experiences before leaving home — or in the parks — giving them more time to explore and enjoy Walt Disney World. This can be accomplished via My Disney Experience, online or on the mobile app, or at FastPass+ kiosks located in Walt Disney World Resort theme parks.
Guests can make changes to their FastPass+ selections up to the time they are redeemed, even during the day they are visiting the park. Changes can be made with the free My Disney Experience mobile app or through kiosks located in Walt Disney World parks.
Disney FastPass+ offers guests the confidence of knowing that their must-do fun is locked in, so that when they arrive they can enjoy the moment with family and friends. Once guests have secured their “must-do” experiences, they can relax, explore and allow for those unplanned moments of magic that happen when you are spending time with family and friends.
Using My Disney Experience, Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests may make FastPass+ selections up to 60 days in advance of their visit, for each day they have a park ticket. Disney Passholders and Day guests (those not staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel) are able to make FastPass+ selections 30 days in advance of their trip once tickets are purchased.
As of April 2016, guests will notice enhancements to how they make FastPass+ selections:
- Guests are now be able to choose individual FastPass+ experiences and times and no longer need to make all selections for the same day at the same time.
- While Guests are able to select up to three experiences in advance, they are now able to book fewer than three selections, if desired.
- In addition, Guests who have used their first three FastPass+ selections are now be able to make an additional FastPass+ selection via the MyDisneyExperience mobile app, in addition to the FastPass+ kiosks located throughout the parks. Once they’ve used the fourth, Guests are able to select another, and so on.
Standby queues continue to be available to guests who choose not to use FastPass+ or who want to immerse themselves in the interactive experiences and theming that have become the “scene one” of many popular attractions.
