We shared last week that The Force will make its way to the UK when production begins on Star Wars: Episode VII! As excited as we are about the production, there was another Star Wars announcement this week. Take a closer look at 2014s new animated series Star Wars Rebels and other highlights from around Disney.
Power up your lightsabers! Production has begun on Star Wars Rebels, an all-new animated television series set between the events of Episode III and IV an era spanning almost two never-before-explored decades on-screen. The series, scheduled to premiere fall 2014, will debut as a one-hour special on Disney Channel and will also be followed by a series on Disney XD channels around the world. Visit StarWars.com for details on the Star Wars Rebels synopsis.
In an effort to provide ABC Familys millennial audience with an open forum to speak their mind and let their voices be heard, the network announced the launch of their You Should Know This About Me digital campaign on Wednesday. ABC Family, in conjunction with poet and youth arts advocate Azure Antoinette, is asking millennials to submit original videos and written works that best illustrate their sense of self-identity. Stories will be voted on at ABCFamily.com and the top two winners will each be awarded a $10,000 cash prize. For details, check out YouShouldKnow.ABCFamily.com.
Ready to read, me hearties? Sharon Osbourne, one of pop culture's most famous "mums," will share her swashbuckling adventures as Mama Hook in Mama Hook Knows Best: A Pirate Parent's Favorite Fables, a new children's book to be published by Disney Publishing Worldwide. Available this fall, the book expands on the adventures of Mama Hooks character from the hit Disney Junior series Jake and the Never Land Pirates.
In a landmark agreement with the United States Tennis Association, ESPN announced that it will be the exclusive home in North and South America of the US Open beginning in 2015. As part of the 11-year agreement, ESPN will air the championship in three of the four tennis majors. The network will air 130+hours of US Open matches plus day-long coverage of the middle weekend Saturday, Sunday and Labor Day Monday and both the mens and womens semifinals and finals.
Have you ever wondered where the most Instagrammed location is in the U.S.? Look no further than Disneyland Resort! This week, the Disney Parks Blog shared that there have been more than 8 million photos posted on the app from the Happiest Place on Earth to date. Read the full story here and follow @Disneyland on Instagram!





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Three Disney theme parks celebrate the beginning of summer with a “Monstrous”bi-coastal All-Nighter

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. and ANAHEIM, Calif.  (May 24, 2013) -Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts kicked off a Monstrous Summer by giving guests the chance to spend 24 magical hours inside three Disney theme parks.

From 6 a.m. May 24 to 6 a.m., May 25, 2013, on each coast, guests experienced unprecedented monster madness inside Magic Kingdom park at Walt Disney World Resort, as well as Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park at the Disneyland Resort – heading into Memorial Day Weekend, the traditional start of the family travel season.

The event featured special entertainment, Monsters-themed merchandise and frightening food and boo-verages – one scary good time!

In Florida, the festivities at the Magic Kingdom started at 6 a.m. ET with characters Mike Wazowski and best pal James P. Sullivan (“Sulley”) from the upcoming Disney•Pixar comedy adventure Monsters University joining other beloved Disney characters to help open the park with a Monstrous moment. Mike and Sulley also took their turn as Grand Marshals of the Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade.

In California, Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park guests were treated to fireworks and live entertainment signaling the 6 a.m. PT opening.  Fans hit up the dance floor at Disneyland Park. Disney California Adventure weighed in with the freshly-built Monsters University “dorms” in Hollywoodland and a new Monsters University-themed float leading the Pixar Play Parade.

JUST THE BEGINNING

The All-Nighter is just the beginning of the summer fun. In California, vacationers at “The Happiest Place on Earth” will see how Disneyland Resort “Just Got Happier” with great new attractions such as the “Mickey and the Magical Map” stage show. It also is the first summer for guests to experience the new Fantasy Faire with Disney Princesses at Disneyland, and guests continue to enjoy the exciting new offerings of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure.

Walt Disney World Monstrous Summer includes new offerings and popular favorites in all four parks. This is the first summer for New Fantasyland, which has received rave reviews from guests since its December grand opening as the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history. Guests also will find new, engaging offerings for the entire family throughout the Walt Disney World Resort this summer such as an interactive “Pirates Adventure” game at Magic Kingdom, the newly re-imagined Test Track at Epcot, the new Disney Junior show, featuring Sofia The First and Doc McStuffins, as new additions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, plus Wilderness Explorers at Disney’s Animal Kingdom that will bring families together in exciting new ways. As part of Limited Time Magic – a year of surprise and delight moments – Cinderella Castle will be the canvas for a new, summer-long projection show celebrating the joys of the season. Hit the beach with Lilo and Stitch, head “Under the Sea” with Ariel and get Goofy during scenes that pay homage to summer fun.

ABOUT “MONSTERS UNIVERSITY”

Ever since college-bound Mike Wazowski (voice of Billy Crystal) was a little monster, he has dreamed of becoming a Scarer—and he knows better than anyone that the best Scarers come from Monsters University (MU). But during his first semester at MU, Mike’s plans are derailed when he crosses paths with hotshot James P. Sullivan, “Sulley” (voice of John Goodman), a natural-born Scarer.  The pair’s out-of-control competitive spirit gets them both kicked out of the University’s elite Scare Program. To make matters worse, they realize they will have to work together, along with an odd bunch of misfit monsters, if they ever hope to make things right. Screaming with laughter and oozing with heart, Disney•Pixar’s “Monsters University” is directed by Dan Scanlon (“Cars,” “Mater and the Ghostlight,” “Tracy”), produced by Kori Rae (“Up,” “The Incredibles,” “Monsters, Inc.”) and features music from future Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and award-winning composer Randy Newman (“Monsters, Inc.,” “Toy Story 3″). For more information, like us at facebook.com/PixarMonstersUniversity, and follow us on twitter.com/disneypixar. The film opens in U.S. theaters on June 21, 2013, and will be shown in 3D in select theaters. For more information, check out disney.com/MonstersU.

For more information on Monstrous Summer, check out http://www.disneyparks.com/MonstrousSummer

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Welcome to the Monstrous Summer All Nighter at Disney Parks. For a full 24 hours, we have a team of blog authors in the parks sharing live updates from Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, including one author who will be visiting all three parks – on both coasts – in one day. Keep refreshing this post for new video, images and stories and experience monster madness in the parks.


Monstrous Summer 24-Hour ‘All-Nighter’ Begins at Walt Disney


by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks


Were off and running at the Walt Disney World Resort. Our first-ever three-park all-night party to kick off a Monstrous Summer Disney Parks is now officially underway in Florida. And we have a special treat – live coverage of our opening moment.

Guests joined the blog team outside of Magic Kingdom Park as early as 4:30 a.m. this morning to be among the first to enter and kick off the Memorial Day Weekend in a big way. Weve started the day here in Florida but theres plenty more to see and experience during the next 24 hours.
Keep checking for complete coverage of our All-Nighter at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort – Erin will be joining us with updates soon. Our reports will include a live stream from Main Street U.S.A. and a few other surprises.

Live Blogging the Monstrous 24-Hour All-Nighter at Disney Parks by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog


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This weeks “Disney Parks After Dark” photo was shot at Magic Kingdom Park during the Wishes nighttime spectacular. I just adore shots of fireworks at Cinderella Castle, dont you?

Is Wishes your favorite nighttime sight at Walt Disney World Resort? Or do you prefer IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth at Epcot? Or Fantasmic! at Disneys Hollywood Studios? Tell us in the Comments section below!
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Disney Parks After Dark
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See the posts below for more recipes from around Disney Parks:

• Disney Parks After Dark: A Windy Night at Disney California Adventure Park
• Disney Parks After Dark: Fireworks at Beasts Castle in New Fantasyland
• Disney Parks After Dark: a bugs land at Disney California Adventure Park

Its almost showtime! Mickey and the Magical Map opens this Saturday, May 25, at Disneyland park. Heres a look at the nearly two-year-long journey the Creative Entertainment team has undertaken to bring the show from concept to reality, along with a glimpse of the amazing, musical Journey to Imagination youll go on with Mickey Mouse when you take a seat in the newly refurbished Fantasyland Theatre. The premiere is just around the corner, so we hope to see ya real soon!

Let the Journey to Imagination Begin with Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland Park by Shawn Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog


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As we approach the 30th anniversary of The New Fantasyland at Disneyland park, I thought it would be fun to compare what Fantasyland looked like when it opened in 1955 to the Fantasyland we know today, which has remained mostly unchanged in its fairytale village style since it reopened on May 25, 1983.
We started with a vintage black and white photo taken somewhere inside Fantasyland and tried to recreate it. King Arthur Carrousel and the Mad Tea Party were moved from their original locations in 1983, so it was Mr. Toads Wild Ride and Sleeping Beauty Castle that helped us establish the location perfectly.






Whether you first experienced Fantasyland in the last 30 years, or you remember it during its medieval faire years, it has been and always will be as Walt described it on opening day: a timeless land of enchantment.


Read on for more posts about the history of Disneyland park:

• The Carolwood-Pacific Railroad, Inspiration for the Disneyland Railroad
• Windows on Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland Park: Van France
• Its a Jungle Out There: The History of Jungle Cruise Horticulture

When we shared a first peek at Mystic Manor in Hong Kong Disneyland, I know many Disney Parks Blog readers immediately added it to their must do list – me too. Today, theres even more to share. Walt Disney Imagineerings creative executive Joe Lanzisero is taking us on a behind-the-scenes tour of Lord Henrys stately Victorian mansion.

One of the critical elements for making Mystic Manor a great attraction was the music and the addition of legendary composer Danny Elfman, according to Joe. Danny has the ability to create tension and excitement but there is always a grin underlying it, he said. He has a sense of scary fun, so Danny was perfect.
Along with an amazing soundtrack, the attraction features a trackless ride system and combines innovative special effects, state-of-the-art technology and Disney storytelling to create an immersive experience.
Mystic Manor opened on May 17 so you can now tour Lord Henrys home yourself by boarding his latest invention the Mystic Magneto-Electric Carriage. But be sure to keep an eye open for Albert, Lord Henrys pet monkey, because when he opens a peculiar music box in the museum, all of Mystic Manors contents magically come to life.
Behind The Scenes: Exploring the New Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog


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This Saturday marks the 30th anniversary of an important celebration. The year was 1983, the day was May 25, and a new, redesigned Fantasyland was unveiled at Disneyland park. Of course in true Disneyland fashion, there was a grand opening, including the lowering of the drawbridge at Sleeping Beauty Castle. That hadnt happened since the park opened in 1955! Creative Advisor to Walt Disney Imagineering, Tony Baxter, was one of the Imagineers on the redesign team. Disney Parks Blog spoke with him about that opening day and what other attraction they used as inspiration. Enjoy!

This Week in Disney History: The New Fantasyland Opens at Disneyland Park, 1983 by Valarie Sukovaty: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog


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Some of the ways our employees get involved as Disney VoluntEARS include building play spaces, comforting children during their hospital stays, planting trees and feeding the hungry. And, while well continue to service these important needs, Disney VoluntEARS are taking on new types of projects from web design and financial analysis to marketing strategy and graphic design.
Thats right. Its called skills-based volunteerism and its one of the ways our 30-year VoluntEARS program continues to grow in impact.

Over the past several months, four teams of VoluntEARS took on these tasks for Boys & Girls Clubs across Los Angeles County. From creating a marketing brochure to redesigning a website, these VoluntEARS spent as many as 16 weeks working closely with the clubs to provide Disney-quality services.
Building a website for the Pasadena Boys & Girls Club was an amazing experience because I was able to use the same skills I use at work to do something meaningful for the community, says Almon Deomampo, manager of technology for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Online.
The goal of Almons team project was to create a website to attract contributions from donors and inspire confidence in the clubs programs a website with an impact that will reach far beyond the 16-week life of the project.
VoluntEAR team member Matt Ronchetti added, I enjoyed the fact that this project was spread out over a number of weeks because it was very collaborative and I could really get into it. It felt good to use my professional skills to truly meet the clubs needs, and I would certainly do it again!
Boys & Girls Club leaders found the Disney VoluntEARS to be a tremendous resource.
Kim Washington, director of development for the Carson club shares, It was great value to get a fresh perspective on the community we serve. Our assigned team of VoluntEARS worked on a strategic market plan. They came in with an open interest in our nonprofit, and in the end they became like family.
To help integrate these new opportunities into the Disney VoluntEARS program, the company partnered with the Taproot Foundation an organization that specializes in matching professional skills with the nonprofits that need them most. According to Taproot, individuals are three times more likely to gain material job skills from pro bono service versus traditional volunteering. Taproot also assesses the value of each project. The work done by these four teams of VoluntEARS alone resulted in more than $100,000 in support to Boys & Girls Clubs.
As a Disney VoluntEAR myself, the first thing that came to mind after talking to some of the teams wassign me up!

The Orlando Regional FIRST recently recognized Greg Hale, Chief Safety Officer and Vice President of Worldwide Standards and Auditing for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, as one of the organization’s Volunteers of the Year.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) designs programs that motivate K-12 students to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The organization’s mentor-based programs include the FIRST Lego League, which uses team robotics activities and competitions to inspire students.

“Over the years I’ve seen what a difference FIRST participation makes for students and I continue to be inspired by their teamwork and problem solving,” Hale said. “Through FIRST we are engaging students in science and technology in a way that will stay with them forever and have a direct impact on their education and careers.”

Greg Hale has volunteered with FIRST for 19 years, serving on the FIRST advisory board and helping to run and judge events in Orlando and other locations and serving as master of ceremony for the annual regional competition every year since it began at Kennedy Space Center. The competition now is held at the University of Central Florida.

Greg leads a global team that keeps Disney on the leading edge of theme park safety, accessibility for guests with disabilities, and technology advancements.

Today, in 1993, the Backlot Theater opened on New York Street at Disneys Hollywood Studios. This 1,500-seat theater was home to two major productions The Spirit of Pocahontas and Disneys The Hunchback of Notre Dame – A Musical Adventure.

The Spirit of Pocahontas explored the films love story between Pocahontas and John Smith, and the balance between man and nature. This 28-minute show was the first Broadway-style theatrical production at Walt Disney World Resort and included wind, water and fire effects as part of the dramatic retelling of the story.

Disneys The Hunchback of Notre Dame – A Musical Adventure closely followed the story of the film. Set in the Court of Miracles (the Gypsy underworld), this 30-minute show featured many of the characters from the movie, including 13 Gypsy players who brought the story to life via puppetry and props.


Check out more posts from the “Vintage Walt Disney World” series:

• Vintage Walt Disney World: A Look Inside the Walt Disney World Resort Tree Farm
• Vintage Walt Disney World: An A Attraction or an E?
• Vintage Walt Disney World: A Look Back at Magic Kingdom Park Parades

What are some of the sounds that make Epcot, well, Epcot for you? The laughter of Figment? The uplifting music of Soarin? The narrators dim of the torches before IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth?

In this video, which we just received from our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering, our Imagineers offer a look at how they designed a new soundtrack for one of the parks attractions: Test Track Presented by Chevrolet. Check it out – there are definitely some things youll want to listen for next time you stop by.

Which Epcot attraction has your favorite soundtrack? Let us know in the Comments section below.
Behind the Scenes: Recording the Soundtrack for Test Track Presented by Chevrolet at Epcot by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog


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Were just a few days away from the premiere of Mickey and the Magical Map, the spectacular new musical production being staged in the Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland park.
One of the cool things about the show is the design of the costumes for the Mapmakers, Yen Sids apprentices who are well versed in the ways of the sorcerers amazing map. I spoke with Senior Costume Designer Matt Davidson, who shared some of his inspiration behind the designs.
The costumes needed to have a modern infusion of style and edginess, while still retaining an antique quality that comes with Fantasyland and its older, European roots, said Matt. I have always liked the inventiveness of Steampunk, which for those who may not know, comes from the Jules Verne, H.G. Wells world of futuristic-styled technology being possible in the Victorian era. The aesthetic uses lots of copper, antique brass, leather and rivets. Its kind of a warm, hand-crafted look that fit perfectly.
Heres a look at some of those designs, as Matt and Costumer Chris Bermudez were fitting the shows cast for a recent dress rehearsal. Youll be able to see the costumes in action, of course, once Mickey and the Magical Map opens May 25!


Learn more about “Mickey and the Magical Map” in the posts below:

• King Louie Joins Rehearsal for Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland Park
• First Look: Setting the Stage for Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland Park
• Making Music for Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland Park

Disney and family go together and for many of us, pets are a part of the family. The pet industry continues to be on the rise, and Disney Consumer Products began supporting this growing category seven years ago.
Our pet products range from apparel, collars, leashes and bowls to plush toys for our furry friends. But we dont stop there. Innovation and technology is one of the fabrics woven into the product development with our licensees. My favorite product is the pet I.D. tags with QR code technology. Heres how it works. If someone finds your pet, they can do a quick scan of the tag with their smartphone. Your pets information becomes instantly available. A GPS feature has also been added so once the QR code is scanned, an email is sent to the owner notifying them their pet has been found, along with the location where the code was scanned.
Pets have a hearty appetite so we also cater to their taste buds! Pet food represents about 70 percent of the overall revenue for the Disney pet business, however other pet categories continue to grow. Disney Consumer Products recently launched a line of dog products at PetSmart that include fashionable apparel with witty editorial, featuring some of our favorite characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Kermit the Frog.
We havent forgotten about our friends under the sea. Last fall an aquatic line, found online and at pet retailers, launched with the release of Finding Nemo 3D.
Our commitment to animals stems from our heritage. Walt Disney showed his love for animals through his animations and films, and we continue to keep that spirit growing with all our fans from four-legged pets to fin swimmers.

If youve ever cruised with Disney Cruise Line, you know that all of our staterooms are designed with families in mind. We know that traveling families always need more space, so features are included in each room to provide more usable space, like the split-bath feature that Disney introduced to the cruise industry.
When the Disney Magic relaunches this October, guests will see changes that make the staterooms even more family friendly. Take a look at this video to hear about some of these enhancements and get a glimpse at the refreshed art deco-inspired design of the staterooms and suites on the Disney Magic.

Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog and Disney Cruise Line Facebook page, and follow @DisneyCruise on Twitter for all of the exciting updates about the Disney Magics transformation! While youre on Twitter, join in the conversation by using the hashtag #DisneyMagic.


Check out these posts for more updates from the Disney Magic:

• Take 5: Magic on the Disney Magic
• A Closer Look at the AquaDunk Thrill Slide on the Disney Magic
• Southern Caribbean Voyages with Disney Cruise Line

Its almost here! Were just a few days away from the premiere of Mickey and the Magical Map in the newly refurbished Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland park. Mickey Mouse and his friends have been rehearsing their ears off (see what I did?), and weve got the first photos of the star of the show along with some of his friends onstage.

• King Louie Joins Rehearsal for Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland Park
• First Look: Setting the Stage for Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland Park
• Making Music for Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland Park

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Fall 2013 is a grand celebration at Walt Disney World Resort, marked by festivals, special events and other nonstop fun leading up to the holidays. On land – and sea – Disney guests will find unrivaled excitement. As temperatures cool, the fun heats up.

Here’s a look around the Florida Vacation Kingdom and beyond:

Fresh Flavors and Scottish Influence Debut at 18^th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Disney guests can sip and savor fresh flavors from six continents during the 18^th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 27-Nov. 11, 2013 at Walt Disney World Resort.

Beers, meads and Scotch pair with authentic new menu items at the first Scotland Marketplace, one of more than 25 ethnic and specialized food-and-beverage stops located around the World Showcase Promenade.  Brazil, Ireland, Greece, South Korea and other countries will feature traditional tapas-sized foods to be paired with wines, cocktails and beers.  Terra Marketplace, with creative, flavorful vegan dishes, returns following its 2012 debut. More than 270 Disney chefs and culinary stars from across the country will participate in the 46-day tasting extravaganza.

Festival planners also will present an impressive menu of premium programming, such as the grand tasting Party for the Senses events, plus daily wine tastings and mixology seminars.  Celebrity chefs like Jamie Deen, Gale Gand and Rock Harper will stir up plenty of Festival Center fun with culinary demonstrations.  Music stars of past decades will rock the party with nightly Eat to the Beat concerts at the outdoor America Gardens Theatre.  New festival acts will include the Go-Go’s and Manhattan Transfer.

In Future World, the iconic, colorful Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog will return for a third year to introduce families to the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage.

Authentic Taste seminars, Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog, special book signings, Eat to the Beat concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.

The Party for the Senses grand tasting events and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission.  Guests will be able to call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) to make reservations after an August date is announced.  Information and reservations for select events and programs will be at www.epcotfoodfestival.com.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Offers Happy Haunts for 23 Nights at Walt Disney World Resort

This fall, the Magic Kingdom plays host to the ultimate trick-or-treating neighborhood as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party returns for 23 special nights from Sept. 10-Nov. 1.

Entertainment features the twice nightly “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade,” led by the infamous Headless Horseman, followed by “HalloWishes,” a green and orange fireworks display complete with Disney villains. Also, guests won’t want to miss their Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best. Not to be left out, guests are invited to dress up in favorite Halloween costumes for trick or treating and more from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. for 23 select nights.

In addition to trick-or-treating, meet and greets with Disney characters donning Halloween costumes, and entertainment unique to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, many of the popular Magic Kingdom attractions – including, of course, The Haunted Mansion – are available to experience (but beware of hitchhiking ghosts).

Party dates in 2013 are:

September:         10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27 & 29

October:              3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29, & 31

November:          1

Get Your Royal On! Fall Opening Planned for Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom

A Fall 2013 opening is slated for Princess Fairytale Hall as New Fantasyland, largest expansion project in the history of Magic Kingdom, continues. Princess Fairytale Hall will be the new home for Disney princesses to meet their loyal subjects in the Magic Kingdom. The castle-like entrance will feature walls of stone and stained glass windows opening up into a large gallery – an airy space with a high ceiling – where portraits of the Disney princesses adorn the walls. When it’s time for their royal audience, guests will proceed to one of four elegantly finished chambers to meet their favorite Disney princess. Each chamber accommodates up to two Disney princesses. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train will join the New Fantasyland lineup of fun in 2014.

Christian Music Legends Steven Curtis Chapman, Michael W. Smith Co-star at 31st Night of Joy

Two legends of Contemporary Christian music – Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith – will team up during the 31st Night of Joy at Walt Disney World Resort, September 6-7, 2013. It’s an evening of enlightening proportions—experience the sound, the spectacle and the magic of their individual ministries as these two icons of Christian music perform their own solo sets. Then, watch as they make Night of Joy history and share the spotlight together in service of a much more powerful purpose!

The pair, who have played stages individually at Magic Kingdom Park in past events will play together at the 2013 event for the first time. They have played Night of Joy a combined 18 times, amassed more than 90 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, and garnered eight Grammy Awards and countless other accolades.

Night of Joy stalwarts MercyMe also are back for their sixth consecutive Night of Joy (eight Night of Joy performances total); and 2012 Grammy Nominee TobyMac, Central Florida’s own Francesca Battistelli and rockers Skillet and Newsboys return this year to fill out headliners.

The line-up features six new artists to the event: Moriah Peters, We As Human, City Harbor, For King and Country and Jamie Grace. And recently added is Christian Alt-Pop queen Plumb (aka Tiffany Arbuckle Lee), whose haunting soprano and heart-clenching lyrics have led to simultaneous hits on the Christian Music and Dance/Club charts.

The complete line-up includes:

• Friday, September 6: Mercy Me, Steven Curtis Chapman & Michael W. Smith, Skillet, Mandisa, Audio Adrenaline, For King and Country, Moriah Peters, We As Human and City Harbor


• Saturday, September 7: TobyMac, Francesca Batistelli, Newsboys, Matthew West, Group 1 Crew, Building 429, Plumb and Jamie Grace

2013 marks the 31^st year for Disney’s Night of Joy, two nights where the best in Contemporary Christian music meets the fun and fantasy of the Magic Kingdom. In addition to their favorite Christian artists, guests can enjoy beloved Magic Kingdom attractions like Space Mountain, Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain – along with New Fantasyland, the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history.

One-day tickets to Disney’s Night of Joy are $55 plus tax in advance and $65 plus tax the night of the show (if available). Two-night tickets are $99 plus tax (advance purchase only) and group discounts are also available. To purchase tickets or for more information about the event, visit www.nightofjoy.com.

 Conservation Awareness Days at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Guests this fall can participate in special activities themed to special critters – and learn how Disney cares for them, how Disney supports their conservation in the wild through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund and cast conservation programs, and what guests can do to support conservation efforts. The special days are:

• Vultures – Sept. 5


• Elephants – Sept. 26


• Bats – Oct. 31 (Halloween)


• Rhinos – Nov. 12

While in the park, there’s more new fun in store. This is the first fall for Wilderness Explorers, enabling guests to explore the park more deeply armed with field guides and earning sticker badges along the way. Wilderness Explorers is aimed at young guests ages 7-10 but is fun for the entire family. And at the new Adventurers Outpost on Discovery Island, guests can meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as they get ready to set off on their next adventure.

Disney’s First Cruise Ship Offers Guests Brand-New Experiences and Re-Imagined Spaces

There ‘s an extra dose of magic aboard Disney Magic when the Disney Cruise Line vessel re-launches in October with new spaces, re-imagined areas and exciting additions for the whole family. From a new grand atrium lobby and children’s area of “super hero” proportions to a three-story water thrill ride and a space to stimulate the “Senses,” there are plenty of new and magical surprises in store for cruise guests. The ship features fun new experiences with Marvel characters – the first time Super Hero icons from the Marvel Universe have been introduced on a Disney Cruise Line ship.

Following the “re-imagining” transformation of the ship that takes place during dry dock Sept. 7-Oct. 10 in Cadiz, Spain, the Disney Magic will depart Oct. 20 from Miami on a special five-night voyage including two stops at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, and a stop at Nassau. This first cruise after dry dock sets the stage for a schedule of two-, three-, four- and five-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean. Beginning Jan. 2, 2014 the Disney Magic will sail from Port Canaveral on alternating three- and four-night cruises including a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, and Nassau.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycuise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent.

Sail Away to a Magical Winter Holiday with Disney Cruise Line

Beginning in early November, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to each ship, through the new year, with traditional “Turkey Day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries,” New Year’s Eve galas and Disney characters dressed for the occasion.

Special stem-to-stern holiday events include a nightly tree lighting in the atrium lobby, visits from Santa Claus and his elves, traditional holiday feasts, family holiday crafts, holiday storytellers and more. When the ships stop during the holidays at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, the celebration continues with “snow flurries,” a decked-out Christmas tree, Disney character meet-and-greets and holiday island music.

Guests will enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving Day feast, with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and friends dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire. On Christmas Eve, guests can leave milk and cookies for Santa when he visits the ship at midnight. Christmas services will be held on Christmas Day with a midnight mass on Christmas Eve, and Hanukkah services will be held each day, Nov. 28-Dec. 5. To celebrate the new year, voyages include a special New Year’s Eve party to ring in 2014, complete with music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes and a midnight countdown with balloon drops.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent.

Festival of the Masters Nov. 8-10 Brings Artful Fun to Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney invites guests to the 38th Festival of the Masters presented by Michaels Nov. 8-10. This world-renowned fine arts festival features more than 150 artists showcasing their unique works in painting, sculpture, photography and other categories. This outdoor festival also will offer live entertainment, hands-on activities for kids and unique food offerings. Additional information can be found at www.disneyworld.com/downtowndisney

Eighth Annual Old Spice Classic Continues Holiday Hoops Tradition at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

The eighth annual Old Spice Classic at Walt Disney World Resort continues the holiday hoops tradition with eight teams tipping off Thanksgiving Weekend at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in one of the nation’s premier preseason Division 1 men’s college basketball tournaments.

Each team will compete in one game per day, advancing through the bracket. The two teams that remain undefeated throughout will face off in a championship game in the final day of the competition. The Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) will serve as the event’s sponsoring conference for the eighth straight year. All games will air on ESPN networks.

The family-friendly tournament is a weekend-long affair at the Walt Disney World Resort where participating teams practice, play and enjoy the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks. Previous winners of the Old Spice Classic have included Dayton, Notre Dame, Florida State, NC State and Arkansas.

For more, visit www.oldspiceclassic.com

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is Haunting Backdrop for 10-Miler Weekend, Oct. 4 – 5

Disney villains take center stage for TheTwilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend, Oct. 4 – 5.   The weekend features a haunting nighttime 10-mile race starting at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, running through ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and finishing, appropriately enough, near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.  Runners and guests who purchase a special ticket can enjoy the Disney Villains Hollywood Bash post-race party.  Partygoers will enjoy live music, Disney characters and access to attractions such as The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock “n” Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith and Toy Story Mania until 4 a.m.  Families can enjoy the Disney Happy Haunted 5K Trail Run and runDisney Kids’ Races at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Saturday, Nov. 5.  A two-day Health and Fitness Expo featuring several vendors and a speaker series takes place on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 4 – 5 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.  For more: http://www.rundisney.com/tower-of-terror-10-miler

Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend set for Nov. 8 – 9

runDisney serves up Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend, Nov. 8 – 9.   More than 14,000 registered runners will take on this unique nighttime 13.1-mile course starting at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, running through Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and finishing at Epcot.  After crossing the finish line, runners can join family and friends for a special ticketed post-race party inside Epcot until 4 a.m.   The Finish Line Party features more than 25 kiosks offering fine cuisine and wine from the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, plus Disney characters, music and the opportunity to ride various attractions such as the newly reimagined Test Track Presented by Chevrolet and Soarin’.  New this year is the Disney Wine & Dine Pre-Race Taste on Friday, Nov. 8, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  This special ticketed event offers runners and fans a private reception on the set of Lights, Motor, Action! Extreme Stunt Show, featuring food and beverages from the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, music and Disney characters.  In addition to the half marathon, Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend features Mickey’s Jingle Jangle 5K at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and runDisney Kids’ Races at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.  There’s also Disney’s Health and Fitness Expo on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 8 – 9, at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. For more: http://www.rundisney.com/wine-and-dine-half-marathon

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This weeks Caption This photo comes from inside the Enchanted Tiki Room here at Magic Kingdom Park.
Taken in 1978, this shot shows some of the chanting tikis at the attraction. The one at the top looks very mischievous. What are these guys talking about? What are they up to?

You tell us. Go ahead and Caption This!
Read on for more chances to “Caption This”:

• Caption This: Arriving in Style at Magic Kingdom Park
• Caption This: Dalmatian Dreams at Disneys All-Star Movies Resort at Walt Disney World Resort
• Caption This: Jungle Friends at Disneys Animal Kingdom

• Downtown Disney District restaurants will be open until 2 a.m. on Saturday, May 25 (excluding ESPN Zone)
• Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express will be open until 3 a.m. on Saturday, May 25
• Special extended hours at ESPN Zone
  
  • The Arena open until 3 a.m.
  • The 19th Hole Bar alcohol available until 1 a.m.
  • Non-alcoholic drinks served until 3 a.m.
  • Limited food menu served until 1 a.m.
  • “1/2 price” special on all Arena games from 12-3 a.m.
  
  
• House of Blues and Tortilla Jo’s will open for breakfast at 6 a.m. on Saturday, May 25
• The following will be open 24 hours on May 24-25
  
  • Caf Renee
  • Planet Popcorn
  • Wetzel’s Pretzels
  • Jamba Juice
  • La Brea Bakery Express
  
  
• The following will be open until 2 a.m. on Saturday, May 25
  
  • Wetzel’s Pretzels Cart
  • Gelato Cart
  • Churro Carts

• Downtown Disney District stores will be open 24 hours on May 24-25
• Merchandise carts will be open until 2 a.m. on Saturday, May 25
• Live Entertainment
  
  • 610 p.m. Downtown Disney District live entertainment
  • 11 p.m. 4 a.m. DJ Wendy on the Main Stage
  • 11 p.m. 4 a.m. DJ Justin at House of Blues area

I started my Disney career as part of the Walt Disney World Resort College Program in the fall of 1997. In those days, my roommates and I spent a lot of time at Downtown Disney, mostly at Pleasure Island. I remember hearing about something new coming to the West Side a giant five-story building filled with virtual reality games, arcade classics and cool interactive experiences you couldnt find anywhere else.
It seems like just yesterday, but this week, we celebrate 15 years of DisneyQuest. (Wow, does that make me feel old!) Ill admit, when I joined the Downtown Disney team three months ago, I hadnt been to DisneyQuest in while. (Like, years.) Im happy to report, I had a blast. I had the most fun playing Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for Buccaneer Gold. Im competitive by nature, so luckily, I scored the most points! And I loved CyberSpace Mountain and the classic arcade games I remembered from my youth.
While some of the games have been there since opening, new experiences have been added over the years, and many have been updated with higher-resolution screens and graphics. Check out virtual Jungle Cruise and Mighty Ducks Pinball Slam to see for yourself!
Something else thats been there since the start? Two special cast members, Jessica and Jackie, whove been part of the DisneyQuest team since day one.
Jackie, a 43-year Disney cast member this September, opened Walt Disney World Resort (She remembers seeing Walt from afar during construction and met Roy on Opening Day; can you imagine?) and shes been at Downtown Disney since 1983. She says DisneyQuest is like one big happy family in the big blue box. She loves her role as a QuestKeeper and plans to stay on until retirement.
Jessica, an Attractions Coordinator who was nearly nine months pregnant when DisneyQuest opened, echoes the sentiment, saying, I dont have any plans of leaving; I like it here. Its my home. Her daughter, the first DisneyQuest baby, is now 14 years old. No surprise here, she loves the indoor interactive playground where her mom has worked for a decade and a half.
Though the lobby hasnt changed much over the years, the fashions certainly have! Red denim overalls (as seen in the archived Marketing shot below) may have been all the rage in the late ’90s, but today it takes a special person to pull off that look. Luckily, a great smile never goes out of style and after 15 years, Im so happy to see that its still the accessory of choice for Jessica, Jackie and their fellow DisneyQuest cast members.

• A Picture Perfect Tradition at the Downtown Disney Marketplace at Walt Disney World Resort
• Big Fun for Little Ones at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort
• A Most Special Sunday Lunch at Raglan Road at Downtown Disney

When were in any of the Disney Parks, its hard enough to pass the popcorn wagons with the buttery aromas beckoning. And now its twice as hard to walk on by when these adorable popcorn buckets are filled with the fluffy kernels.

Anytime I travel abroad, I enjoy shopping for Disney items that originate outside of the U.S. its fun to see locally designed Disney products and experiences. And the next best thing to seeing them, is hearing about them from my colleagues around the world. Today, were taking a look at some recent highlights from across the pond.
On the heels (pun intended) of Iron Man 3s box office success, UK designer Julian Hakes applied his futuristic approach to shoe design with this question in mind: If Tony Stark himself were to design a pair of shoes for Pepper Potts, what would they look like? Julian fit his signature, award-winning Mojito shoe with an LED light, resembling the ARC-reactor that powers Iron Mans suit, to create a unique pair of shoes inspired by the super hero. Julian shares, Because of my design and engineering background, Ive always been fascinated by Tony Stark in Marvels Iron Man comic books and films. The Mojito shoe is a result of an architectural driven process. After realizing that only the heel and ball of the feet require support to maximize comfort, I created many different prototypes before arriving at the Mojito design - perhaps even rivaling the number of suits created by Tony Stark!
Kids across the UK can now become Junior Super Heroes! Disney Store recently announced the Marvel Training Academy. The in-store activity, which takes place this month, allows budding Iron Men to learn a series of special moves. Once theyve mastered the actions, each participant receives a Junior Super Hero card in recognition of their new skills. Amy Pearson, marketing director, Disney Store Europe shares, Our in-store activity sessions always prove popular with children and parents alike, and were excited to be adding the new and engaging Marvel Training Academy to the schedule. We are also delighted to see the sales uplift across our Iron Man 3 and Marvel products, especially in the costume and Hasbro action figure and gauntlet categories.
Disney and Tommy Hilfiger recently announced in the UK the launch of The Muppets limited-edition childrens collection. Disney is collaborating with Tommy Hilfiger on a new Spring/Summer 2013 collection featuring The Muppets. The collection available in select Tommy Hilfiger stores and on Tommy.com features Kermit, Miss Piggy, Animal, Fozzie, Beaker, Startler and Waldorf, and some of their popular catch phrases. Tommy Hilfiger first teamed with The Walt Disney Company in February 2012, for the Meet the Family capsule collection, which featured unique interpretations of Disney characters wearing preppy pieces from Tommy Hilfiger collections.
If youre interested in staying up-to-speed on Disney happenings in Europe, follow us here.

Attention Disneyland Annual Passholders! Ive got an exciting new benefit to tell you about: a new Twitter service, @DisneylandAP, is now available for you. Its another great way to stay informed and up-to-date on all the AP happenings at the Disneyland Resort. Follow @DisneylandAP for special AP news and offers, and even answers to some of your Annual Passport questions! Of course, this service joins the official Disneyland Resort Annual Passholder Facebook page, Facebook.com/DisneylandPassholders, as another easy and fun way to stay connected to all the benefits of being an Annual Passholder.

Not a Disneyland AP yet? See what youre missing out on:

• Disney Dining Discounts – Annual Passholders enjoy the following discounts at many Disneyland Resort food locations:
  
  • Premier and Premium Passholders save 15 percent
  • Deluxe, SoCal and SoCal Select Passholders save 10 percent
  
  
• Merchandise Discounts – Annual Passholders enjoy the following discounts on select purchases at most Disney-operated merchandise locations through December 2013:
  
  • Premier and Premium Passholders save 20 percent
  • Deluxe, SoCal and SoCal Select Passholders save 10 percent
  
  
• Special rates at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort
• Passholder-exclusive website with even more special content, including offers, insider updates and all the information you need to make the most of your Annual Passport.
• Passholder E-Newsletter with the latest news and information.
• Guided Tours Discounts – Annual Passholders receive 20 percent off select Guided Tours at the Disneyland Resort.
• Special Events – In addition to advance-purchase savings on Mickeys Halloween Party tickets for select nights, Annual Passholders enjoy opportunities to attend special events at the Disneyland Resort, such as Annual Passholder Limited Time Magic.

Did you know that the Happiest Place on Earth is also the #1 most-Instagrammed place in the U.S.? Its true – there have been more than 8 million photos posted on the photo sharing app from the Disneyland Resort to date.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (March 22, 2013) – Disney California Adventure Park brings two new storylines to its popular family experience, “Disney Junior —Live on Stage!”  Joining the current stories of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Jake and the Never Land Pirates are two of Disney Juniors’ top-rated shows: Sofia the First and “Doc McStuffins.”
“Disney Junior —Live on Stage!” continues the imaginative, family-based fun that comes from being part of a live audience.  The entertaining show pops to life with bright visuals and whimsical scenery, while four mini-episodes of playful Disney storytelling invite guests to dance and sing along.
Fans of “Sofia the First” and “Doc McStuffins” will enjoy interacting with these new characters from Disney Junior’s popular new series. Young Princess Sofia is known for showing every little princess-in-training how to sparkle – inside and out. Doc McStuffins cares for and nurtures toys in need. When the Doc is in, she really knows her stuff, consulting her Big Book of Boo Boos to help diagnose and mend her toy friends.
In the live show, guests will visit the kingdom of Sofia the First as she’s learning to perform a magic spell for her dad’s royal ball.  Guests also will enjoy a song-filled visit with Doc McStuffins and her stuffed animal pals, learning how important it is to cheer on your friends.
“Children will adore seeing their newest friends from Disney Junior onstage in our show,” said Elissa Hogan, Creative Director for “Disney Junior – Live on Stage!”  “We bring the characters to life with great music and great stories, and the children really get to be a part of the adventures.”
“Disney Junior – Live on Stage!” is scheduled to run several times a day at Disney California Adventure Park, in Hollywood Land. The updated show opened February 15 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World.