Latest News

SHANG-CHI Advanced Tickets Now Available

16 August 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

The latest installment in Marvel Studios’ Cinematic Universe is another step closer to release. Starting today, SHANG-CHI is available for advanced purchase at select theaters.

Fans can purchase advance tickets through Fandango to see the movie on the big screen in select theaters.

To commemorate the sale, Marvel has released a brand new TV spot of the film as well,

Marvel Studios’ “Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings” stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization.

While advanced ticket sales at select theaters are available now, there has been no confirmation from Marvel or Disney on whether the film will be available on Disney+ Premier Access. If so, it will be the first major Disney release since Mulan to not be included on the service at it’s premiere date. Be sure to check here if there are any updates to this in the future.

SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS opens in theaters on September 3, 2021.

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party Discount Tickets On Sale

5 August 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

It is time! For what seems like the first time in forever, Disney on Ice is returning! We shared this news previously, but the time has now come and tickets are available for Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party at the Amway Center – September 3-5, 2021! If you aren’t local to Orlando, there are other touring dates available and on sale now or soon at DisneyOnIce.com, arena box office, and www.ticketmaster.com,. Keep reading for a Disney On Ice discount code!

Join Mickey Mouse and his friends at Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! Look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds.

Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing-along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen. Make memories during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration!

See Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and stars from Moana, Coco, Frozen, Toy Story, Aladdin, Beauty and the
Beast, and The Little Mermaid.

Visit DisneyOnIce.com for COVID-19 information and venue safety standards.

©Disney/Pixar

Discount Code for Disney On Ice Tickets:

You can save $5 on select seats when you use code DOI5FQ online at DisneyOnIce.com.
Offer valid on select price levels and performances. Offer valid only on the following performances: Friday, September 3 at 7:30pm; Saturday, September 4 at 7pm; Sunday, September 5 at 5pm. No double
discounts. Service charges, handling and facility fees may apply. Tickets are subject to market supply and demand. Offer expires 8/29/21.

I’ll be attending one of these shows thanks to Disney On Ice, and cannot wait to share my experience. Be sure to follow along on @zannaland on instagram for future updates. I received complimentary tickets in exchange for sharing this Disney On Ice discount code but as always, my thoughts and opinions are my own. Let me know if you’ll be going to Disney On Ice too!

Follow along with Disney On Ice here:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DisneyOnIce
Twitter: @DisneyOnIce
YouTube: www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce
Instagram: @DisneyOnIce
Hashtag: #DisneyOnIce

Advance Tickets For FREE GUY On Sale Today

2 August 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

In early December 2019, Twentieth Century Studios uploaded the first trailer for their new epic adventure comedy FREE GUY. Over a full year and three release delays later, the film is finally set for release this summer on August 13.

Today, Twentieth Century Studios announced that advanced ticket sales for the film are available for purchase at fandago.com. There’s also a strange new featurette of the film to view.

In “Free Guy,” a bank teller who discovers he is actually a background player in an open-world video game decides to become the hero of his own story…one he rewrites himself. Now in a world where there are no limits, he is determined to be the guy who saves his world his way…before it is too late.

I’m personally excited for the film, which also features cameos from several notable Twitch streamers. Those of you who agree can stay tuned for more updates from the film and an inevitable review by checking here.

Give Kids the World Night of a Million Lights Returns for 2021!

30 July 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Give Kids the World is one of my favorite places and they do such amazing things for critically ill children and their families. With the pandemic last year, they were closed for so long, they created the Night of a Million Lights event to raise money for the Village for all the Wish children that were missing out. Now that the village is reopened to families, we all wondered if Night of a Million Lights would be back. Well GKTW Village just announced the return of Night of a Million Lights for 2021 because it was such a successful event! AND! Tickets are on sale now!

If you’d like to see what the event is like, check out our video from last year’s Night of a Million Lights:

Here is all the official news from GKTW Village about Night of a Million Lights for 2021:

A dancing lights show, tram tours and unique behind-the-scenes experiences highlight an array of exciting additions guaranteed to make this year’s second annual Night of a Million Lights holiday lights spectacular another dazzling success. Scheduled to illuminate the Central Florida skyline from Friday, November 12, 2021 through Sunday, January 2, 2022, Night of a Million Lights will once again provide the public with a rare glimpse inside Give Kids The World Village, an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort that provides critically ill children and their families with magical weeklong wish vacations at no cost.

Tickets are on sale now at www.gktw.org/lights, enabling guests to immerse themselves in an exquisitely decorated fairytale neighborhood which wish families call home during their stays. Guests can explore a sparkling tree trail; view larger-than-life holiday displays; take photos at one-of-a-kind step-in frames and backdrops; and enjoy a guided storytelling tour of 100 magnificently lit villas from the comfort of a tram, included in the price of the ticket. The event will run from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, with staggered entry times to prevent crowding.

What began as an inventive pandemic pivot for Give Kids The World has evolved into Central Florida’s most beloved new holiday tradition. More than 92,000 guests attended Night of a Million Lights in 2020, named #1 on USA Today’s list of the “Best Things To Do in December in Orlando.” With the return of wish families to the Village, this year’s event promises to be brighter and more festive than ever, while preserving the privacy and comfort of wish families during their visits.

“Children with critical illnesses face countless appointments, treatments and hospital stays, and they are often told “no” due to the limitations of their illness. We feel privileged to give wish children and their families a week of “yes” where they can forget their worries, experience joy, and spend precious time together,” said Give Kids The World President and CEO Pamela Landwirth. “We look forward to once again sharing some holiday joy with the community while raising the funds that will enable us to continue creating the happiness that inspires hope for these precious families.”

This year’s Night of a Million Lights enhancements will include a 360-degree dancing lights show encompassing 21 fully programmed buildings set to music, with six three-minute holiday vignettes playing each hour. In addition, a holiday marketplace will offer upgraded food and beverage experiences, festive holiday merchandise, and an opportunity for children to meet Santa in his elaborately designed Florida home. Also new this year, guests can make their visits extra special by purchasing one of a variety of VIP packages, ranging from behind-the-scenes guided tours and premium dessert parties to special events and exclusive balcony experiences – providing a stunning setting for marriage proposals, vow renewals, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and other special moments. Discounts are available for groups of 25 guests or more. To inquire about group discounts and special events, please contact [email protected].

Proceeds from Night of a Million Lights will support Give Kids The World, rated Four Stars by Charity Navigator 15 years in a row. When wish-granting organizations receive a request from a critically ill child who wants to visit Central Florida, Give Kids The World fulfills the wish – providing each child and his/her family with an all-inclusive stay that includes transportation; accommodations in one of the Village’s 166 storybook residential villas; all meals and snacks; donated theme park tickets; nightly entertainment; daily gifts; and priceless interactive experiences at the Village, featuring accessible rides and attractions. Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 176,000 families from all 50 states and more than 76 countries.

We had such a wonderful time at last year’s Night of a Million Lights!

Give Kids The World Village is located at 210 South Bass Road in Kissimmee. To learn more, visit www.gktw.org. You can see our past posts about the amazing work Give Kids the World does too!

Marvel Studios Releases New SHANG-CHI Featurette

30 July 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

After the recent release of Black Widow, the train to the next inclusion in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is truly rolling. Today, Marvel Studios gifted us a new featurette of the film, SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS.

In the featurette, we join producer Kevin Feige, stars Simu Liu and Awkwafina, and director Destin Daniel Cretton as they provide some of the backstory to Shang-Chi as a character.

Marvel Studios’ “Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings” stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization

Marvel Studios’ SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS opens in U.S. theaters on September 3.

Be sure to check out our other updates on the film here.

Rides Revealed for Brand New Peppa Pig Theme Park

29 July 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

Earlier this year, Hasbro provided details on their brand new Peppa Pig Theme Park coming to Florida in 2022. Today, the company announced the rides and attractions we can expect to see when the park opens!

Designed to be the ultimate day for little ones, the new theme park combines interactive rides and themed play grounds with character shows and an indoor cinema for quieter moments.

Every corner of the charming new park is crafted with preschoolers in mind, from their first roller coaster rides with their parents and free fair games for the whole family, to an all-terrain course where they will pedal tricycles through a sensory-rich trail and a colorful splash pad that celebrates “muddy puddles” jumping fun!

Through every experience, families will snort, giggle and create their family’s first theme park memories together with Peppa and her friends.

The map provided gives us some details of the rides and attractions coming to the park, including Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster, Grandad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride, and Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride.

While there are many rides and shows announced, families should know that the park is designed with little ones in mind, so all experiences will be child friendly. Many of the rides are interactive, and the park is also set to include several sensory-rich experiences and shows to keep children of all ages entertained.

Hasbro also announced that annual passes and vacation packages for the park are available now. For travel dates starting April 1, 2022, families can book two nights and receive a third night free! The vacation packages offered also include a stay at any of the LEGOLAND Florida Resort hotels, which are all located just steps away from Peppa Pig Theme Park.

Additionally, Annual Passes are on sale now and include free parking. To learn more and book now about the Annual Passes or book a vacation package, visit PeppaPigThemePark.com/Florida

We’ll be sure to follow the Peppa Pig Theme Park as more updates come out, and you can click here to see all our announcements from it.

Disney Wish Adult Areas Sneak Peeks: Spa, Lounges, Specialty Dining and More!

29 July 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Another fun Disney Wish announcement from Disney Cruise Line this morning, which I’m starting to really love. They give us just enough info to get SUPER excited for all that the Disney Wish will be when it debuts in 2022! This time, it’s all about the Disney Wish adult areas – the places for 18+ only. Whether it’s the spa, the lounge areas with themed bars, the quiet Cove pool area, or the Specialty Dining, there is something for everyone on the Disney Wish. Those who love the Senses Spa as much as my family does may be interested in the spa news below! Here’s all the info, straight from Disney Cruise Line:

Here are the highlights of today’s big reveal:

Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever outdoor spa retreat, complete with whirlpool spas, plush loungers and plenty of space for open-air yoga sessions.

Untangled Salon and Hook’s Barbery, our first standalone salon and barbershop experiences, each inspired by a classic Walt Disney Animation Studios film.

Three new upscale bars and lounges, now infused with more storytelling and spread out among the ship’s other core gathering places for a more flexible, free-flow experience.

Check out the latest video in our “Designing the Disney Wish” series for a closer look at the enchantment in store for adults aboard our newest ship, then continue reading for more details about the experiences announced today.

Outdoor Oasis at Senses Spa

For the first time aboard a Disney ship, Senses Spa will feature a dedicated outdoor relaxation space! This open-air oasis is a brand-new extension to our signature Rainforest experience, which has been reimagined for the Disney Wish to provide even more ways to relax and rejuvenate. The Rainforest will introduce the fleet’s first ice lounge, allowing guests to combine thermal therapies, which promotes both physical wellness and tranquility. It will also include guest-favorite elements like heated ergonomic loungers; sensory spa showers; and sauna, steam and dry chambers.

Untangled Salon

At Untangled Salon, you can let your hair down (and have it styled any way you want) in a light and airy environment that is perfect for pampering. Inspired by Rapunzel, this chic, high-end salon will be adorned in shades of purple and gold, decorated with floating lantern light fixtures and outfitted with custom cut-metal privacy screens depicting Rapunzel’s own paintings. One side of the space will even gleam and glow with the golden light of a signature chandelier that evokes the iconic flower that gave her hair its magical qualities! In addition to haircuts and styling, the menu of services at Untangled Salon will include manicures, pedicures, teeth whitening and skin treatments.

Hook’s Barbery

Hook’s Barbery will be a unique twist on a traditional European men’s salon, offering cuts, shaves, and nail and skin care. Decked out in dark woods, handsome leather chairs and ornate golden mirrors, the space will brim with narrative details inspired by its namesake, Captain Hook: an inlaid wooden map of Never Land, a hidden pocket watch and — of course — a hook, to name a few. A trio of seemingly nondescript lanterns will occasionally come to life with lighting and audio effects to signify Tinker Bell jumping from one fixture to another.

Not only will Hook’s Barbery provide salon and barber services, but it will also boast the ultimate toast to a pirate’s life: a hidden bar! This (not-so-secret) treasure trove of pre-Prohibition bourbons, vintage whisky and port, aged rum and premium spirits will be a liquor enthusiast’s paradise, ideal for low-key hangouts, romantic date nights, hosted tastings and special evening events.

Keg & Compass

Keg & Compass is a pub that celebrates the adventure and romance of the sea, designed in the rustic architectural style of a late 1800s Norwegian sailor’s map room and drawing inspiration from the rich folklore of Norse seafaring. Spanning the entire ceiling will be a grand, fantastical map in old maritime style that features, among other references to ocean lore, a homage to Disney characters and stories related to the sea. In addition to such characters as Ursula and Moana (appearing in the geographically accurate locations of their stories), the map will call out important locales related to The Walt Disney Company and, specifically, the design and construction of the Disney Wish.

This casual setting will be the perfect place to kick back and watch live sports, news and major broadcast events while sampling a specialized selection of beers, including three custom craft brews available exclusively aboard the Disney Wish, along with an assortment of liquors, wines and cocktails.

Nightingale’s

Nightingale’s is a refined piano bar inspired by Cinderella’s lyrical rendition of “Sing Sweet Nightingale” in the 1950 film, offering an extensive menu of fine wines, bubblies and hand-crafted cocktails. Classically modern with a soft metallic palette, the predominant design feature will be a glittering chandelier perched above the piano — a swirl of pearlescent bubbles and music notes displaying the titular song’s melody meticulously crafted out of shimmering rose gold. This vibrant lounge will be a thematic extension of the fairytale-inspired Grand Hall from which it stems, with large doors that allow the twinkling tunes to spill out across the atrium, inviting passersby to stop and stay for a while.

The Bayou

If you’re looking for a New Orleans-inspired good time aboard the Disney Wish, you’ll want to go down to The Bayou, an informal lounge themed to “The Princess and the Frog.” Flourishing with magnolia blossoms, lily pads and a canopy of twinkling fireflies overhead, this space will evoke the magical marsh where Tiana and Naveen take refuge in the film. This centrally located venue will offer creative cocktails, specialty coffees and signature beignets in a lively, social atmosphere complete with live entertainment and musical performances.

(I can’t WAIT to see photos of the Bayou and experience it myself!)

Adults aboard the Disney Wish will escape, relax, dine and play in more ways than ever with exclusive venues and entertainment tailored just for them. When the ship sets sail in summer 2022, guests ages 18 and older will find a variety of opportunities to unwind and indulge, including a first-of-its-kind lounge in a galaxy far, far away and a trio of premium culinary experiences inspired by a tale as old as time.

“Our guests are often surprised by just how much fun and relaxation there is for adults on a Disney cruise,” said Laura Cabo, portfolio creative executive, Walt Disney Imagineering. “With the Disney Wish, we wanted to give our adult guests even more variety and options to customize their experience, whether they’re looking for elegant sophistication with just a touch of pixie dust, or full-scale immersion into some of their favorite Disney stories. Either way, one thing is for sure: adults will experience legendary Disney storytelling in all-new ways aboard the Disney Wish.”

Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge

For the first time on a Disney ship, guests will embark on a space-jumping tour of the Star Wars galaxy at Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, a high-end bar styled as a luxurious yacht-class spaceship. This richly themed, immersive experience will be reserved for adults every evening, offering interactive tasting experiences and signature beverages inspired by the films.

The venue’s sleek interior design and metallic detailing is inspired by lavish star cruisers similar to Dryden Vos’ ship in “Solo: A Star Wars Story.” While guests sip their galactic concoctions, this space-faring voyage will transport them to iconic locations from the eras of the Republic, Empire and First Order, employing hyperspace jumps to travel from planet to planet while sensational scenes unfold just beyond the ship’s panoramic viewport at each stop.

Ranging from serene vistas to action-packed encounters, the spectacles seen through this virtual “window” into the galaxy will feature famous space ships from the films and fan-favorite locales like Batuu, Tatooine, Mustafar and Coruscant. The experience will be amplified by surround-sound audio and a holotube that presents holographic models of nearby ships.

In addition to Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, adults will enjoy a variety of relaxed bars and upscale lounges aboard the Disney Wish. More information will be released at a later date.

Exquisite Specialty Dining

Aboard the Disney Wish, guests will savor gourmet meals and exceptional beverages at Palo Steakhouse, Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement and The Rose, an upscale suite of epicurean excellence exclusively for adults, inspired by the elegant icons of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Beauty and the Beast.”

Palo Steakhouse

Palo Steakhouse is an evolution of the Palo restaurant that Disney cruisers know and love, now combining the relaxed sophistication of authentic Italian dining with the classic refinement of a modern steakhouse in a genteel setting inspired by Cogsworth, the tale’s majordomo-turned-enchanted-clock.

An elegant, welcoming environment with spectacular ocean views off the back of the ship, the venue has been designed with a warm, luxurious palette of rich woods and shining metals, along with artwork and details that evoke ornate clocks, pendulums and gears. A private dining room will be available for more intimate gatherings of up to 12 guests.

At Palo Steakhouse, guests will choose from a selection of exquisite Italian dishes and the world’s best steaks, from the most elite American prime cuts to melt-in-your-mouth Australian wagyu to succulent Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beefs. The show-stopping menu will be paired with the finest Italian wines and bold craft beers – and for dessert, a fan-favorite indulgence: signature Palo chocolate souffle, prepared fresh-to-order and served piping hot with luscious vanilla bean and chocolate sauces.

Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement

Enchanté will offer the most luxurious dining experience on board, featuring a gourmet menu crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement — of L’Assiette Champenoise, near Reims, France — one of the culinary masterminds behind the French-inspired fine dining experience at Remy aboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

This romantic and intimate venue will evoke the dazzling candlelight and lavish hospitality of the film’s candelabra maitre d’, Lumiere, with shimmering light fixtures and illuminations that will give life to the two intimate dining areas and private 10-seat dining room. With an elegant infusion of soft blues and metallic embellishments, the enchanting atmosphere will be completed by stunning ocean views.

The menu will feature superior products and seasonal ingredients sourced from around the world to create an exceptional ensemble of international dishes, masterfully developed with the passion, philosophy and expertise of Chef Lallement. From the moment they enter the glittering champagne room, guests will be swept up in a sumptuous journey marked by consummate cuisine, superlative wines and first-class service.

The Rose

The Rose is a chic lounge at the entrance of Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté. Inspired by the fateful flower at the heart of the story, guests will enter The Rose through a corridor of beautiful, bespoke artwork commissioned exclusively for the Disney Wish. This grand entrance culminates in a gilded, golden rotunda, unfolding into a plush lounge with rich velvet seating, glorious views and magical illuminations.

The Rose will be an idyllic setting for a pre-dinner aperitif or after-dinner cocktail, with an extensive selection of high-end wines and liquors. Guests will also indulge in a special menu of gourmet amuse-bouche and small plates from the Enchanté galley, curated by Chef Lallement.

Quiet Cove Pool District

At Quiet Cove, guests aged 18 and older will find a secluded adults-only district dedicated to lounging, sipping and soaking. Set away from the bustle of family activities, this peaceful refuge will offer breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean from a luxurious infinity pool.

While kids are hanging out with Disney characters in the coolest kids’ clubs at sea, parents will enjoy much-needed “me time” with an escape to Quiet Cove. Here, they’ll take a dip in the pool, unwind in a whirlpool spa, relax in a chaise lounge and indulge in a cool beverage from Cove Bar – an open-air watering hole offering beer, wine and cocktails.

A Disney Cruise Line guest favorite, Cove Cafe is a chic poolside lounge that will offer gourmet coffees, teas, specialty drinks and treats throughout the day. For the Disney Wish, the sophisticated yet casual spot will get a fresh new look that reflects the Oceania-inspired artistry of Disney’s “Moana.”

Maiden Voyage and Inaugural Season

The Disney Wish will sail its maiden voyage on June 9, 2022, followed by a season of three- and four-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, from Port Canaveral, Florida. Bookings open to the general public on May 27, 2021.

You can read more about the Disney Wish announcements and Disney Wish Family Dining News too!

Destination D 2021 is Coming to Walt Disney World-Ticket Sale Dates

26 July 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

D23 has just announced the ticket sale date for Destination D! We had previously reported on June 24th: Huge surprise announcement today from D23 – The Official Disney Fan Club as they announced Destination D is happening this year! The Biggest Disney Fan Event of the year is coming November 19–21, 2021!

Join D23: The Official Disney Fan Club as we celebrate 50 years of the Walt Disney World Resort and more! Be the first to hear exciting announcements and see sneak peaks from the many worlds of Disney—and relive your favorite memories with behind-the-scenes stories, special guests, and so much more at this fan-favorite event!

Become a D23 Gold Member to purchase tickets when they go on sale in July.

This one of my favorite parts of D23 membership – it’s much more intimate and manageable than the D23 Expo, and really what led me to visit Disneyland (and the Expo) for the first time! I can’t wait to experience the next Destination D and all the fun facts and special surprises that will be in store! You can read about past Destination D events here. Hope to see you in November!

Today we got more information from D23 including pricing and ticket sale dates for Destination D 2021:

The event will take place November 19 – 21, 2021, at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort.

Be the first to hear exciting announcements and see sneak peeks from the many worlds of Disney—and relive your favorite memories with behind-the-scenes stories, special guests, and so much more at this fan-favorite event!

Here’s even more info about the event straight from Disney D23:

Become a D23 Gold Member to purchase tickets when they go on sale!

Presentation Highlights of Destination D23 2021 will include*:

A kickoff welcome presentation with Bob Chapek, CEO, The Walt Disney Company.

What’s New and What’s Next for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products—Chairman Josh D’Amaro will share what’s new and what’s next for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. The exclusive presentation will feature updates on some of the most anticipated projects around the world. And as D23 Members know, there is always a surprise or two in store!

A special look at what’s new and next from Disney+!

Musical Memories of Walt Disney World— A journey through 50 years of the Walt Disney World songbook with Walt Disney Imagineering, revealing the stories behind beloved fan-favorite melodies and a peek into the process of creating new ones.

Destination D23 audiences will also thrill to performances from Michael James Scott, Genie in Disney on Broadway’s hit Aladdin and Disney’s acapella sensation DCappella.

The Art and Imagery of Walt Disney World— Dive into the Walt Disney Imagineering Art and Photo collections for a look at over 50 years of the most gorgeous, stunning, and surprising artwork that inspired the most magical place on earth over the years.

The Magical Musical World of Encanto—Join filmmakers and special guests for a melodic Saturday evening celebration of the upcoming musical, the 60th animated feature from Walt Disney Animation Studios!

Weird Disney World—The fan-favorite “Weird Disney” returns, as Director of the Walt Disney Archives Becky Cline digs into Disney history to bring you a half century of the wildest and wackiest Walt Disney World moments!

How the (Disney) World Began—Join Kevin Kern and Steven Vagnini, authors and historians behind A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of The Most Magical Place on Earth and Disney Legend Dick Nunis for a look at how Walt Disney’s dreams were translated into the Vacation Kingdom of the World.

Park Stars: Original Characters of Walt Disney World—Figment, Big Al, the Orange Bird, and Teddi Barra are just a few of the many Disney characters created specifically for Walt Disney World. Join Imagineers Diana Brost and Jason Grandt as they take you on a journey around the “world” to meet many of the fun personalities that appear in Walt Disney World attractions and shows.

Exciting Experiences at Destination D23 2021 will include*:

The Walt Disney Archives: 50 Years of Bringing Home the Magic—An all-new exhibit curated by the Walt Disney Archives takes you through a half-century journey of merchandise memories of the Walt Disney World Resort. From figurines and fanny packs to pins and plush, relive each exciting decade through the souvenirs that brought the Vacation Kingdom of the World home!

Mickey’s of Glendale—The Walt Disney Imagineering campus store returns with a pop-up shop at the event for attendees, featuring a selection of exclusive Destination D23 and Walt Disney Imagineering merchandise. Trading pins for this event will be offered to attendees through a RSP opportunity.**

Special Film Screening—On Friday, November 19, event guests will also be invited to a special screening at Disney Springs.**

Disney+ Party—Join Disney+ for the grand finale of an incredible weekend with a special celebration you can’t miss!

Plus, more presenters and presentations to be announced soon!

*Please be advised: All schedules, events, and merchandise are subject to change without notice. For the enjoyment of all attendees, access in and out of the Fantasia ballroom may be limited during presentations.

**For the convenience of our event guests, you will be offered the opportunity to reserve a shopping window for Mickey’s of Glendale on Friday, as well as a show time for your screening at Disney Springs on Friday. Details to come closer to the event.

DETAILS
For those unable to join us live at the event, select segments of Destination D23 will be live-streamed on D23.com and D23 social media channels. Stay tuned to D23.com for a full schedule of streaming panels, along with details of where to tune in.

All guests will receive access to the following D23-exclusive experiences:

Guaranteed seats at all panels and presentations
Destination D23-exclusive Mickey’s of Glendale pop-up shop
All-new exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives
Special Screening on Friday
Disney+ Party on Sunday evening
Specialty gift created exclusively for the event

In addition, a limited number of preferred seating tickets will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. These tickets will include a dedicated queue for a reserved seating area at the front of the ballroom.

An extremely limited number of specially priced rooms and theme park tickets will be available to D23 Members who purchase Destination D23 tickets. Further details will be included in the ticket purchase confirmation email.

NOTES

D23 Gold Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest for either regular or preferred seating. D23 Members will be required to log in with their D23 Gold membership when reserving tickets.
- Gold Family Members can transition before purchase to the Gold Duo Plan at no charge for the opportunity to purchase additional tickets. Each Gold Member on the account can purchase a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest. For more information on how to transition your Gold Family account, click here.
- Each ticket must have a unique individual assigned to the ticket, no duplicate names can be used at time of purchase.

All ticket holders for this event agree to comply to the latest health and safety guidelines put forth by the Walt Disney World Resort. Find the latest guidelines at Know Before You Go.
All guests without active room reservations at Disney’s Contemporary Resort must park at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) and take the Monorail service to the event.
Video or audio recording of any kind will not be permitted during the presentation.
All Guests under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to attend this D23 event.
D23 Members attending must bring their photo ID and event tickets or they will not be admitted to the event.
Ticketed Members and guests who do not attend the event forfeit their place as well as all experiences, benefits, and gifts associated with the event. D23 Members must be present for their guests to gain entry to the event.
All D23 Events are subject to change without notice. There are strictly no cancellations or refunds, and tickets are not transferable.

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Filming, photography, and other recording will take place at WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT IN LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL during the event you will be attending. By entering the premises, you irrevocably consent to and authorize Disney Worldwide Services, Inc., its affiliates, successors, and assigns (collectively “Disney”), to photograph you, make sound recordings of you, and use such photographs and recordings throughout the world, for any purpose whatsoever in perpetuity, including, but not limited to, television broadcasts and home entertainment products, including, but not limited to, home video and DVD. All such photographs and sound recordings will be the sole property of Disney.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Porte Cochere Open!

25 July 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is going through a major makeover, and it’s almost complete! The Polynesian resort recently reopened all guest rooms after being open for only DVC rooms since the resort opened after pandemic closure. However, the monorail station and porte cochere have been closed since around November of last year, and did not open with the rest of the resort last week. We recently visited Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (today!) and saw that the porte-cochere is now open to guest vehicles!

The main lobby entrance is still not open, but bell services is available to take luggage around to the check-in area. We thought we’d share some photos of the open porte cochere at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort here with you all:

You can see that cars can now drive under, but the lobby entrance is still walled off. Notice the beautiful new thatched roof and unique lighting, reminiscent of the lobby lighting, only rather than multi-colored glass balls, these are all white, and look a little odd in my opinion, but maybe at night they’ll fit right in.

As of now, the monorail station is still not reopened, and we have no official date as to when that will open to guests. Those staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort must use alternate transportation, such as boats, buses, or walking to the TTC to get elsewhere in Walt Disney World (or use your own car or car service).

As a reminder, here’s what the finished porte cochere at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort will look like:

What do you think of the Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort’s newly opened porte cochere? Are you excited to experience it any time soon? Let us know! ‘Ohana also recently reopened, you can check out our vegan food reviews on VeganDisneyFood.com, our sister site!

Teaser Trailer Released for Disney and Pixar’s TURNING RED

13 July 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

Pixar fans who can’t get enough after last month’s Luca are in for a treat this morning as Disney and Pixar release the first teaser for their next project.

Slated for 2022, TURNING RED is the all new original feature film from Pixar Animation Studios’ director Domee Shi, who won an Academy Award for her 2018 short film, “Bao.” Young actress Rosalie Chiang lends her voice to Mei Lee, a 13-year-old who suddenly “poofs” into a giant red panda when she gets too excited. Sandra Oh (“The Chair,” “Killing Eve”) voices Mei Lee’s protective, if not slightly overbearing mother, Ming, who is never far from her daughter—an unfortunate reality for the teenager.

Check out the teaser below.

Fans of Bao, which released alongside Incredibles 2 in 2018 will recognize the director’s style immediately. And those excited for Turning Red after this teaser can expect the film in 2022. We’ll have more updates on the film as they are released!

Check out some of our other Pixar updates here.