Disney News

Disneyland Theme Park Offerings for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

22 July 2024 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Don’t Miss Limited-Time D23 and Disney Jr. Offerings at Disneyland Resort

Before D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event begins in Anaheim, guests are invited to the ultimate kickoff party – the first-ever D23 Day at Disneyland Resort – on Aug. 8, 2024!* During this one-day event, guests will discover celebratory offerings inspired by Disney history, classic stories and new favorites.

As part of all the festivities, the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party in Disney California Adventure park on Aug. 8 will feature fun-filled entertainment and activities that preschoolers and their families will enjoy.

All guests with a valid theme park admission and reservation – including D23: The Official Disney Fan Club Members and D23 Event attendees – are invited to this celebration. If guests are planning to visit Disneyland Resort for multiple days while in Anaheim for the sold-out D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, the limited-time special ticket and hotel offers may be a great value for them and their family.

D23 Day at Disneyland Resort – Aug. 8, 2024

Beginning at park opening and while supplies last, a limited quantity of complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hats featuring the D23 Day at Disneyland Resort logo will be handed to guests entering Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park on Aug. 8.*** It will be a stylish way to celebrate this extraordinary event!

The ultimate kickoff party will be hallmarked by a themed cavalcade at 12:15 p.m. in Disneyland park, featuring the famous Disneyland Band and some familiar friends. Guests will spot 23 characters and select Disney Legends, who have been recognized for their impact and contributions to the Disney legacy.

At both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, you may encounter characters making limited-time appearances. From sharing a silly moment with Goofy and Max from the animated series “Goof Troop” in Mickey’s Toontown to posing with Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear from Pixar Animation Studios’ “Toy Story 3” in Pixar Pier, who knows who you’ll run into on this special day!

Tomorrowland Terrace at Disneyland park will keep the fun going from day into night. Get your groove on with Stitch and some Disney character friends in an energetic dance party from 1-6 p.m. At set times between the hours of 7-11 p.m., musical group Suburban Legends will kick up the energy in the evening with live music.

A merchandise collection honoring the 25th anniversary of the Walt Disney Animation Studios’ film “Tarzan” will debut at Disneyland Resort on Aug. 8! For a limited time, the “Tarzan” collection will be available at Disneyana at Disneyland Park, Off the Page at Disney California Adventure Park and WonderGround Gallery at the Downtown Disney District.

Plus, be on the lookout for special apparel and items commemorating the first-ever D23 Day at Disneyland Resort!

From Aug. 8-11, collectors will also be able to search for four new medallions featuring the D23 Day at Disneyland Resort logo on one side and Disneyland Resort artwork on the other. The medallions will be available for purchase at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen in Disneyland Park, Kingswell Shop at Disney California Adventure Park and near the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage and lawn at the Downtown Disney District.

Guests will be able to commemorate their visit to the first-ever D23 Day at Disneyland Resort with unique photo memories. As part of the festivities, all park guests with valid park admission and theme park reservations on Aug. 8, 2024, will receive complimentary unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken that day.** Plus, Disney PhotoPass service will offer a special Magic Shot guests can find that day!

Additional celebratory offerings include unique photo locations, illusion art installations at Disney California Adventure park and Downtown Disney District, plus a collectible commemorative guide with 23 recommended activities and details to discover.

Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party at Disney California Adventure Park – Aug. 8, 2024

All park guests, including preschoolers and their families, can explore, laugh, sing, dance and craft together at the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party in Disney California Adventure park, which will celebrate favorite Disney Jr. characters and stories from hit series including “Disney Jr.’s Ariel,” “Mickey Mouse Funhouse,” “SuperKitties” and more.

At 10:30 a.m., the parade route of Disney California Adventure park will be filled with music and fun as iconic Disney Jr. friends hit the road in a parade with dynamic drummers and dressed-out vehicles. Joining in this whimsical processional and making her Disney Parks debut is Disney Jr.’s Ariel, who will make a special, one-day appearance at Disney California Adventure park on Aug. 8.

Hollywood Land will be the heart of hands-on fun, with a special “Disney Jr.’s Ariel” arts and crafts area. At the Hollywood Backlot Stage, families will be able to play along with Disney Jr. friends in a series of live performances, and kids can decorate cupcakes during “Confection Purrfection with the SuperKitties.”

Families may also encounter and interact with characters from beloved Disney Jr. series, such as Winnie the Pooh, Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First and more.

Extended Fun at the Downtown Disney District

The fun continues with discounts, specialty offerings and unique entertainment at the Downtown Disney District all week long!

Beginning Aug. 4 through Aug. 11, select locations at the Downtown Disney District will have special offers for guests that present their D23 Event badge or D23 Membership card.**** For guests not attending the sold-out D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, there is still the option to partake in these offerings and many other discounts by becoming a member of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. Learn more at D23.com.

Guests can purchase tickets for special happy hour events taking place at Naples Ristorante e Bar on Aug. 9 and Aug. 10, from 3-5 p.m. It will be a fun way to meet fellow fans while enjoying a selection of unlimited bites.

From Aug. 9 through Aug. 11, the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party fun will continue at the Downtown Disney District from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. The Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage will present a rotation of family-friendly entertainment, from a high-energy DJ leading dance parties with Disney Jr. music, to upbeat live performances featuring favorite Disney Jr. characters and a bubble show inspired by “Disney Jr.’s Ariel.” Closer to the date, guests can check the Disneyland app for show times.

Preschoolers and their families will also be able to play and create together with crafts inspired by the live performances and “Disney Jr.’s Ariel.”

In addition to all the limited-time fun, we have some bonus merchandise news! Beginning Aug. 8 and while supplies last, Create Your Own Headbands will return to Disneyland Resort at The Mad Hatter on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland Park and Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff in Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park.

What a jam-packed celebration! We’re looking forward to seeing guests at Disneyland Resort leading up to and during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.

Guests can check the latest entertainment details and schedules at Disneyland.com or the Disneyland mobile app. Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice.

*Both valid Theme Park reservation and admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

**Limit one per ticketed Guest, while supplies last. Guest must be present at time of distribution. Subject to change or cancellation without notice or liability. Both a park reservation and valid admission are required for park entry. Embroidery is not available for the D23 Day Mickey Mouse ear hats.

***Disney PhotoPass® digital photo downloads exclude separately priced Disney PhotoPass® packages and products offered at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and other select locations. Disney PhotoPass® service is subject to the Disney PhotoPass® Terms and Conditions and expiration policy found at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required.

****Show your D23 event badge or D23 Membership card to receive limited time offer or discount. Restrictions apply. Subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice or liability and are determined solely by the applicable store/location. Disney is not responsible or liable for benefits or discounts offered by any third parties. See locations for details.

Shopping and Exclusive Merchandise at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

16 July 2024 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Shopping at the Anaheim Convention Center is bigger than ever before with new locations, interactive activities, can’t-miss merchandise, and more.

Today, Disney announced details of the augmented shopping experience coming to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa®, including new locations and licensees, exclusive merchandise, and advanced technology to help ease the shopping experience. D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will bring the best in Disney storytelling and innovation to Anaheim, California, on August 9, 10, and 11, 2024, and guests will be able to experience expansive retail offerings from across the worlds of Disney, from limited edition pins to clothing, books, music, and more.

WHERE TO SHOP

World of Disney: The Product Experience
Disney fans are unlike any other and, at this year’s event, they will have the opportunity to take their fandom to the next level with World of Disney: The Product Experience, the must-visit destination to shop and explore new and limited-edition merchandise from D23 Marketplace, Disney Publishing, Disney Store, and more. This expansive and reimagined experience will be located on North Level 200 of the Anaheim Convention Center. Disney Consumer Products invites fans to interact and engage with some of their favorite products and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.

D23 Marketplace
Returning this year in a new location within World of Disney: The Product Experience is the D23 Marketplace. This 16,000 square-foot retail location will bring together the most exciting products from DisneyStore.com and Disney Parks, offering merchandise from fan-favorite collections including Disney Limited Edition Dolls; the brand-new vinyl series Disney Lacers; and Star Wars, Marvel, and Pixar must-haves. For those fans of Disney Pin Trading, this will also be a great spot to buy all-new limited-edition styles including a special collection that nods to the 25th Anniversary of Disney Pin Trading. Attendees will find a wide assortment of new product debuts, curated brand collections, specialty items, and milestone anniversary collectibles.

DisneyStore.com
Shop the stories you love with DisneyStore.com, the official home of genuine Disney merchandise for fans of all ages. Offering uniquely imagined special-edition products and collections, DisneyStore.com will have select items from D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event for sale, including Star Wars and Marvel must-haves, Disney Limited Edition Dolls, and the brand-new vinyl series, Disney Lacers, starting Monday, August 12 at 8 AM PT at DisneyStore.com/D23Event2024 while supplies last.

Disney Publishing
Disney Publishing shares stories that foster a love of reading, inspire natural curiosity, and excite fans. Home to best-selling books, comics, magazines, digital interactive storytelling products, audiobooks, and beyond, Disney Publishing merchandise will be located within World of Disney: The Product Experience as the premiere destination for Disney books, fan-favorite stories, and collectible titles. First-to-market books will be available including must-reads from Bob Weis, former President of Walt Disney Imagineering; Pete Docter, Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer; Martha Blanding, incoming Disney Legend; Ashley Eckstein, voice of Ahsoka Tano in the animated television series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, and more. These celebrated authors will also sign copies of their new books at both Talent Central and Live at World of Disney: The Product Experience. While they shop, fans can also enjoy a brand-new sip and shop experience featuring the latest blend from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co.

The Walt Disney Company Store
The Walt Disney Company Store is making its first appearance at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event with not one, but two locations on the show floor. The Walt Disney Company Store in Hall D will feature new merchandise from The Walt Disney Studios, the Walt Disney Archives, and The Walt Disney Company. From The Walt Disney Studios, guests will enjoy a collaboration with Loungefly featuring a Studio Patches Canvas Backpack, as well as a crossbody bag highlighting the renowned Team Disney building that includes a Disney Legends Award detachable coin purse. The Walt Disney Archives assortment will include a Studio Baseball League Jersey and The Walt Disney Company collection will include a stylish denim jacket, collegiate ivory tee, and sleek 16”computer sleeve. This location will also feature collectible figurines depicting iconic locations across The Walt Disney Studios Lot, including the Partners Statue, Sharing the Magic Statue, Pluto’s Corner Sign, and Water Tower. This location will be cashless. In collaboration with D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, The Walt Disney Company Store will now be home to the official merchandise for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Fans will be able to shop a variety of products, from varsity jackets to a pin trading backpack.

D23 Expo 2024 Ultimate Fan Event Merchandise

The Walt Disney Company Pin Store
The Walt Disney Company Pin Store in Hall B will feature a large assortment of limited-edition pins with a new assortment daily on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This store is a perfect spot for both new and experienced collectors. This location will be cashless.

Mickey’s of Glendale
Mickey’s of Glendale, the Walt Disney Imagineering store, returns to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, with two stores in Hall C of the Anaheim Convention Center. This year at Mickey’s of Glendale, fans will find numerous collections featuring the work and talent of Disney Imagineers. These unique spotlight collections are inspired by Disney characters, theme park attractions, and more. Shop wickedly cute Disney Villain enamel figures or dive into the comic book world of Walt Disney’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.

Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store
Disney pin enthusiasts will want to stop by the Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store, which will release a new assortment of limited-edition pins daily on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store will be cashless and require guests to have the Disneyland app downloaded to their smartphone device to make a purchase. Come prepared and have the app downloaded and account created ahead of time.

Disney Studio Store Hollywood
The magic of Hollywood returns to Anaheim at the Disney Studio Store Hollywood, located in Hall B, where guests can purchase newly released limited-edition pins, framed pin sets, and official Disney Studio Store Hollywood branded apparel. New limited-edition pins will be released on Friday and Saturday. While at this location, guests can stop by and snap a selfie in a sweet photo op! The Disney Studio Store Hollywood will be cashless.

Sponsors and Licensees
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will also have more fan-favorite brands and shopping opportunities than ever before throughout the show floor. Fans will find new and D23-exclusive merchandise including mini backpacks, keychains, and pins from Loungefly; a lab-grown Mickey Mouse pendant from Pandora; event-branded charms from RockLove Jewelry; and pieces featuring Disney Princess and Villain characters from Enchanted Disney Fine Jewelry. Fans will also see Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars-inspired watches from Citizen Watch and the limited-edition Infinity Gem Collection from East Continental Gems. Brands including Cakeworthy, RSVLTS, Rock ‘Em Socks, BoxLunch, and Her Universe will have new, event-exclusive, and first-to-purchase apparel for sale. Fans of Disney Lorcana TCG will have access to a limited-edition D23 Collection set at Ravensburger’s booth on the show floor, and Hallmark will have a Keepsake Ornament. Kidrobot is launching a new Stitch collection, and Just Play will have a new Disney Doorables collection, among other products.

HOW TO SHOP

Disney is dedicated to making the fan shopping experience seamless and is excited to announce the return of merchandise mobile checkout and virtual queue at select locations. Both services will be available through a direct link from the Disney D23 app to the Disneyland app. The Disney D23 app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices and an update coming soon will add functionality to help guests navigate all the entertainment, presentations, shopping, photo opportunities, and magic that Disney has in store at this year’s event. The Disneyland app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices. Many locations are cashless venues and will only accept a credit or debit card.

Fans will have the opportunity to explore the show floor while waiting to shop by signing up for a “boarding group” with virtual queue on the Disneyland app through the Disney D23 app and receive a notification when it’s their turn to shop. Joining the virtual queue does not grant immediate access to any experience, and there may still be a queue and waiting period at the location. The virtual queue is limited in capacity and subject to availability.

Guests will be able to access the D23 Marketplace, The Walt Disney Company Store, The Walt Disney Company Pin Store, Mickey’s of Glendale (Friday only), Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store, and Disney Studio Store Hollywood (Friday and Saturday only) only via virtual queue. Virtual queue will be required to shop at these locations starting when the event opens at 9 AM PT each day. There will be no stand-by queues available in the mornings, but stand-by opportunities may be available later in the afternoon each day if all virtual queue boarding groups have been recalled. All merchandise is subject to availability and inventory may sell out. The number of items per purchase will be limited. Traditional queuing is available at locations not utilizing virtual queue.

Save time while shopping by paying for items using the Disneyland app at select locations. Simply scan each item’s barcode to add it to a shopping bag and pay for items by selecting “Purchase.” Once a purchase is complete, show the QR code confirmation to a Cast Member at the merchandise mobile checkout station to scan before exiting the store. A digital receipt will be sent to the email address linked to the Disneyland app, and all eligible discounts will be automatically applied. The merchandise mobile checkout service is available in addition to traditional checkout services.

About D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event Presented by Visa
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa is a one-of-a-kind, multi-day fan experience showcasing the very best in creative storytelling and innovation from across the worlds of Disney. D23 in 2024 has been reimagined to be more expansive and more immersive than ever before, with three packed days of showcases with stars and storytellers, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes moments, thrilling performances, shopping, surprises, and more. For the latest news on D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, visit ultimatefanevent.d23.com. Presentations, talent, and schedules are subject to change. Join the D23 conversation online by following DisneyD23 on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23.

Disney Wish Cruise Line Reveals

29 April 2021 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

This was such an exciting morning as we all gathered around the fire (ok, our screens) to watch this newest reveal of Disney Wish updates. This Disney Cruise Line ship appears to be unlike any other in terms of technology, themed spaces, and new updates to what we’ve gotten used to on Disney ships. Let’s go through the news together and be sure to watch our live stream tonight at 8pm to see our thoughts – and share yours!

Here are the official updates from the Disney Parks Blog:

To “Swim”-finity and Beyond

We’re taking fun in the sun to the next level on board the Disney Wish with a brand-new family water attraction and three themed districts that offer dedicated space for families, children and adults alike.

You’ll be immersed in “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse” animated shorts aboard the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, AquaMouse. Complete with show scenes, lighting and special effects, and splashtacular surprises, this wild water ride is sure to delight everyone in the family as they zig, zag and zoom through 760 feet of winding tubes suspended high above the upper decks.

Families will have more pools, more deck space and more dining than ever before in an expansive district themed to Mickey and friends. In addition to AquaMouse, the area will feature six pools — spaciously staggered among tiered decks and surrounded by lounge chairs — and a fresh take on quick and casual fare with a festive character twist.

Little ones will delight in an all-new Toy Story-themed district designed especially for families with toddlers and young children. This whimsical water wonderland will include a splash zone, wading pool, family waterslide and smoothie bar.

Adults will indulge in sun-drenched serenity at Quiet Cove, a peaceful refuge dedicated to lounging, sipping and soaking. Set away from the bustle of family activities, this secluded adults-only district will feature a luxurious infinity pool, poolside bar and chic cafe.

Prepared and Served with Flair – A Culinary Cabaret

With the debut of three brand-new family dining concepts ranging from theatrical entertainment to cinematic adventure to sophisticated elegance, dinner on board the Disney Wish will be so much more than a meal – it will be a chance to interact with favorite Disney stories in exciting new ways.

Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure is Disney’s first “Frozen”-themed theatrical dining experience that will bring the world of Arendelle to life through immersive live entertainment — featuring favorite characters like Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf — and world-class cuisine infused with Nordic influences.

Worlds of Marvel is the first-ever Marvel cinematic dining adventure, where you’ll play an interactive role in an action-packed Avengers mission that unfolds around you, complete with a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

1923, named for the year The Walt Disney Company was founded, is an elegant celebration of the company’s legacy, paying homage to the golden age of animation and offering a tasteful tribute to its Californian heritage with dishes inspired by the state’s unique fusion of cultural flavors.

A Whole New World of Family Entertainment

We’re combining innovative design, technology and storytelling to create immersive entertainment environments that will surround guests in Disney stories in new and unexpected ways on board the Disney Wish.

The Grand Hall will evolve from a fairytale gathering space into an environmental theater through the magic of built-in special effects and the first-ever atrium stage on a Disney ship. Dedicated shows and interactive entertainment will come to life all around the hall, putting you front and center as you play a special role in the magic.

Luna is a brand-new entertainment hub that will transition from a daytime setting for family fun into an elegant evening venue for adult-exclusive entertainment, offering a variety of live shows and interactive programming throughout the day.

Hero Zone is a futuristic sports arena where physical activity will blend with imagination during action-packed challenges and game show-style competitions for families to take on together.

The Walt Disney Theatre is an opulent show palace that will come alive with original Broadway-style stage productions developed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line.

The Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas are intimate screening rooms that will provide you more options than ever to watch classic and first-run films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm and more.

In true Disney Cruise Line fashion, the Disney Wish will offer a robust menu of world-class entertainment throughout every voyage, including spectacular stage shows, exhilarating deck parties, one-of-a-kind character experiences, fun family activities, contemporary cabarets and more.

Imaginations, Assemble! Cool Clubs for Kids of All Ages

Children ages 3 to 12 will enter the captivating worlds of favorite Disney stories in the reimagined Disney’s Oceaneer Club, a real-life wonderland featuring more spaces and stories than ever before.

Marvel Super Hero Academy is a high-tech Avengers headquarters where young “recruits” will train to be the next generation of Super Heroes with the help of their own heroes, like Spider-Man, Black Panther, Ant-Man and the Wasp.

Fairytale Hall is a royal trio of activity rooms where princesses and princes will let their creativity shine at Rapunzel’s Art Studio, read and act out stories at Belle’s Library, and test newfound icy powers at Anna and Elsa’s Sommerhus.

Walt Disney Imagineering Lab is a first-of-its-kind opportunity for kids to discover the secrets of Disney Imagineers with hands-on activities and inventive experiments.

For the littlest cruisers ages 6 months to 3 years, It’s a Small World Nursery will offer babysitting services in a whimsical environment inspired by the beloved Disney attraction of the same name.

Edge (ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17) are trendy hangouts where tweens and teens will chill and play in their own way, with dedicated programming designed to engage the unique interests of these age groups.

A Trove of Untold Treasures Exclusively for Adults

For the first time on a Disney ship, you 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 destinations such as Batuu, Tatooine and Mustafar.

You’ll savor gourmet meals and exceptional beverages at 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 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.

Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement will offer the most luxurious dining experience on board, featuring a gourmet menu crafted by the three-Michelin-starred chef. This romantic and intimate venue evokes the dazzling spirit of the film’s candelabra maitre d’, Lumiere.

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, The Rose will be an idyllic setting for a pre-dinner aperitif or after-dinner cocktail.

Senses Spa is a tranquil oasis offering indulgent spa and beauty treatments, drawing on the serenity of natural elements to promote pampering and relaxation. The spa will feature private treatment rooms, lavish spa villas, and steam and aromatherapy rooms, while the reimagined Senses Fitness will offer state-of-the-art exercise and wellness facilities.

Other adult-exclusive spaces on board the Disney Wish will include the Quiet Cove pool district; a variety of gourmet cafes, relaxed bars and upscale lounges; and more.

Artful Accommodations Where Dreams Do Come True

With an all-new look and feel steeped in enchantment and inspired by dreamy Disney stories, every stateroom on board the Disney Wish will be a luxurious, peaceful retreat designed with ample room for families, plenty of storage and upscale amenities. Most will feature Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bathroom concept for utmost comfort and function.

Most of the ship’s 1,254 staterooms will offer an ocean view — including 877 (70%) with a spacious verandah — and there will be 451 connecting doors that adjoin rooms to accommodate larger families.

The Disney Wish will elevate the concierge experience with more than double the number of premium concierge staterooms and suites, including Disney’s first-ever staterooms located above the bridge, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal breathtaking ocean views overlooking the bow of the ship. An exclusive lounge with private sun deck will be the perfect place for concierge guests to relax, sip a cocktail, and enjoy a premium level of dedicated service throughout the voyage.

The Disney Wish will also debut four royal suites – richly adorned, lavishly appointed suites that accommodate up to six guests and feature extravagant details and first-class amenities. These include a pair of two-story suites, the first of their kind within the Disney fleet, which will feature stunning statement pieces like an elegant spiral staircase and a spectacular two-deck-high stained-glass frieze.

Setting Sail Summer 2022

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

Interesting to note that booking windows will be a little different for the Wish. Normally, Platinum Castaway Club Members (those with 10+ cruises) can book 3 days prior to general public. Gold Castaway Club (5-9 cruises) can book 3 days prior, and Silver Castaway Club (1-4 cruises) can book 1 day prior.

Now with the Wish the Castaway Club requirements are changing a bit. Platinum Castaway Club members with 25+ sailings may book starting 5/17, Platinum with 20+ sailings – 5/18, Platinum with 15+ sailings – 5/19, all other Platinum members – 5/20. Gold members may book starting 5/24, DVC members – 5/25, Silver members – 5/26. And the general public can book beginning 5/27.

So that does change things up for some folks. Be aware and if you decide to book, know your dates!

Let’s Discuss!

So that is a LOT of news to take in and get excited about! As mentioned above, we will be discussing all of this news and Disney Cruise Line on our weekly live stream at 8pm! You can watch the replay below if you cannot make it live. We’d love to have you join in the discussion with our other regular watchers and chat-ers! We have a lot of fun each week!

https://youtu.be/yQXlUyGH3H8

Teaser Trailer for Steven Spielberg’s WEST SIDE STORY Released!

26 April 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

During last night’s Academy Awards, Disney released the very first teaser trailer for West Side Story. The movie is a new film adaptation of the musical, from director Steven Spielberg. With the trailer, Disney has also announced the release date – December 10th, 2021. Check out the trailer below!

Directed by Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg, from a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award® winner Tony Kushner, “West Side Story” tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City. This reimagining of the beloved musical stars Ansel Elgort (Tony); Rachel Zegler (María); Ariana DeBose (Anita); David Alvarez (Bernardo); Mike Faist (Riff); Josh Andrés Rivera (Chino); Ana Isabelle (Rosalía); Corey Stoll (Lieutenant Schrank); Brian d’Arcy James (Officer Krupke); and Rita Moreno (as Valentina, who owns the corner store in which Tony works). Moreno – one of only three artists to be honored with Academy®, Emmy®, GRAMMY®, Tony® and Peabody Awards – also serves as one of the film’s executive producers.

Bringing together the best of both Broadway and Hollywood, the film’s creative team includes Kushner, who also serves as an executive producer; Tony Award® winner Justin Peck, who choreographed the musical numbers in the film; renowned Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor and GRAMMY Award® winner Gustavo Dudamel, who helmed the recording of the iconic score; Academy Award®-nominated composer and conductor David Newman (“Anastasia”), who arranged the score; Tony Award®-winning composer Jeanine Tesori (“Fun Home,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie”), who supervised the cast on vocals; and Grammy®-nominated music supervisor Matt Sullivan (“Beauty and the Beast,” “Chicago”), who served as executive music producer for the film. The film is produced by Spielberg, Academy Award®-nominated producer Kristie Macosko Krieger and Tony Award®-winning producer Kevin McCollum. “West Side Story” has been adapted for the screen from the original 1957 Broadway show, with book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and concept, direction and choreography by Jerome Robbins.

From 20^th Century Studios, The Walt Disney Company will release “West Side Story” in U.S. theaters on December 10, 2021.

If you’re excited for West Side Story, be sure to check out our review for Howard, the documentary about some of Disney’s classic musicals.

The original trailer and release for WEST SIDE STORY located here.

New Poster and Trailer Revealed for ‘Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings’!

19 April 2021 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

The next exciting entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe just got an exciting update! Earlier today, Disney released a new poster and teaser trailer for ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’. This comes on the birthday of actor Simu Liu. The actor – who plays Shang-Chi in the film – debuted the poster and trailer on his social profiles.

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. The film also stars Tony Leung as Wenwu, Awkwafina as Shang-Chi’s friend Katy and Michelle Yeoh as Jiang Nan, as well as Fala Chen, Meng’er Zhang, Florian Munteanu and Ronny Chieng.

“Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings” is directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and produced by Kevin Feige and Jonathan Schwartz, with Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso and Charles Newirth serving as executive producers. David Callaham & Destin Daniel Cretton & Andrew Lanham wrote the screenplay for the film, which opens in theaters on September 3, 2021.

If you’re looking for more MCU content, be sure to check out our reviews of the other Marvel films!

Disney Parks Weekly Merchandise Report

26 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

In this weeks Disney Merchandise Report we will take a look at some new Disney princess music boxes, the new Haunted Mansion line and a some pink Minnie Mouse home decor just to name a few.

First we will take a look at a new series of snow globes and some vintage-looking magnets that have popped up in the stores in almost every park!

Disney Magnets — Poppins Penguins Magnet

Disney Princess merchandise has always been really popular in the parks and I think these items will become a hit with both younger and older fans! The music boxes all feature the Disney princesses in there newest reimagined look, which I really like!

These princess tote bags are in the same design as some cute tops that were released last year, so perfect if you want to have a matching bag!

Disney Princess Music Box — Tinkerbell Music Box

Here we first have a new Minnie Mouse pink polka dot home decor collection featuring cute stuff like a jewelry hanger and a frame set. Then if pink is not your thing we have the new Haunted Mansion collection which also features some really nice home decor/collectibles.

Disney Minnie Mouse Home Decor — Minnie Mouse Bulletin / Pin Board

Disney Haunted Mansion — Haunted Mansion Frame

Castle Couture in Magic Kingdom now has some more princess dress up options for your kids to choose from like Merida and Pocahontas. It’s really nice to see that Disney is giving some attention to some of the more rarer princesses!

Lastly, we have two new antenna toppers, some new water bottles and a new girly version of the popular mouse ear ornaments!

Disney Childs Costume — Merida dress up costume inside Castle Couture in Magic Kingdom

Disney Mouse era Ornament — Mouse Ear Ornament

Disney Glasses — Tinker Bell & Stitch Water Bottle

Disney Antenna Topper — Mike Antenna Topper

NEW Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Merchandise!

7 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

This Wednesday was the first day of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival 2013 and I was, of course, very excited to check out the new merchandise! Every year the festival features some newly designed merchandise while also bringing back old favorites. Even though our weather here in Orlando has been on the cooler side lately the festival merchandise really gives you that spring feeling!

Garden Festival Bag — Flower and Garden Festival 2013 Mickey Tote $4.95

Garden Festival Mug — Flower and Garden Festival 2013 Mickey/Minnie Coffee Mug $12.95

Flower and Garden Festival 2013 decanter $16.95

Garden Festival Print — Flower and Garden Festival 2013 Official Print $39.95

Garden Festival Magnet — Flower and Garden Festival 2013 Magnet

Garden Festival stone — Mickey Mouse “Welcome” Garden Stone

Garden Festival statue Grumpy — Flower and Garden Festival Grumpy Garden Statues $29.95

Garden Festival statue Dopey — Flower and Garden Festival Dopey Garden Statues $29.95

Garden Festival statue Tinker Bell — Tinker Bell Garden Stepping Stone $34.95

Garden Festival statue Pin — Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival 2013 Jumbo Pin LE 500 $54.95

The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will be held from March 6 – May 19. The place with the best selection of Flower & Garden merchandise is the Festival Center, but you can also find some merchandise around World Showcase and inside Mouse Gear. We’ll be featuring an upcoming post in the next few days covering all the beautiful topiaries and the new food and drink booths added this year, so stay tuned!

So which Flower and Garden merchandise are you most excited to purchase? I will definitely be picking up a pair of LadyBug Minnie Mouse Ears!

Habit Heroes Turns a Theme Park Attraction into Real Life Action

18 January 2013 by Suzannah Otis 4 Comments

Disney may have caused a bit of a national stir with their first incarnation of the Habit Heroes attraction, (which held soft openings about a year ago, and then closed less than two months later) but the entire show has been rewritten, revamped and ready for action.

The issue faced in the previous version was that two of the cartoonish characters depicted obesity as being easily solved by exercising and eating right, and, critics felt, used tools of shame to attempt to get their message across. Bariatric surgeons and National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance advocates spoke out against the attraction perpetuating negative stereotypes about obesity. At the same time, many in the local Disney community felt that too much of an overreaction was made toward the attraction’s characters. A show about bad habits included characters depicting the effects of those bad habits. One need only look at our schools and yes, theme parks, to see first-hand the effects of those bad habits. As someone who has struggled with weight all my life, I was not offended and definitely understood the message trying to be conveyed. Regardless, Disney closed the attraction while it retooled the storyline based on guest reactions.

Habit Heroes is now back and opens today in Epcot’s Innoventions East, right near the popular Sum of All Thrills motion simulator ride and the Vision House walk-through. I was given a special preview yesterday and even better, was able to take my four year-old with me to test out the changes.

This time around, according to Creative Director Brent Strong, the focus is on positive messages and at the core, trying to make sure everyone feels like a super hero, tapping into emotions to get guests engaged and excited about healthy habits. Rather than having “bad guys” fighting with donuts and sweets, the focus is on YOU, the hero, making good choices and keeping the effects of bad choices away. These bad choices are represented by the unseen forces that threaten our health – dehydration, inactivity and lack of nutrition.

Guests are taken into a series of 4 rooms within the attraction, starting with the training center and ending with the debriefing room. In the training center, we are introduced to our Habit Hero guides, who tell us about these unseen dangers, and how we can combat them by making the right choices. These stories are told in a simple manner that anyone can relate to, without making it seem silly or corny.

Every guest walking into Epcot has probably seen the effects of dehydration, represented here via “Scorchers.” Inactivity is translated into a young boy wanting to go out and play on his skateboard, but getting distracted by the “Sappers” who do anything they can to keep you from activity. Lastly, we are shown the effects of not having proper nutrition. The “Blocker Bots” are what appear when you just eat whatever you want, leaving no room for good choices like fruits and vegetables to get into your system. These lessons are very well portrayed, in such a way where you could see the effects of your choices and how being a Habit Hero will ensure good health.

Next, we enter a room full of “blasters” which correspond with the habits we just learned about. Blue for hydration, red for activity, and green for nutrition. We then use the blasters to zap away the cartoon representations of Scorchers, Sappers, and Blocker Bots as they try to attack people. A fun little addition is each blaster gives off a little “surprise” as you hit your target – blue gives off a mist of water, red a puff of air, green a little vibration. Another round is played where teamwork comes into play, showing the importance of neighbors and community as you battle to be a Habit Hero.

The community aspect is also utilized in the next room, where you are given a colored card as you enter. The room is surrounded by a screen showing Scorchers, Sappers and Blocker Bots attacking from above. Guests place their card on stands around the room, activating a shield and destroying the bad habits. The habits are attacking all around, so guests must run around to the different stations, and are encouraged to ask for help when they see a different card is needed, “we need a red card here!”

Once the world has been saved, you are ready to head to the debriefing room to take the Habit Heroes pledge. The fun doesn’t end there, however. Guests are given a wrist band bracelet in the color representing the habit they most identified with, red, blue, or green. Guests are also given a special card with a mission to embark on in the real world – Epcot! The cards show a cut out to match up on an Epcot map displayed within the debriefing room, and they follow the clues to find a hidden code word somewhere in a nearby Epcot attraction. They are then instructed to return to the Habit Heroes kiosks outside the attraction and enter their code word for a special message from the Habit Heroes leader and an option to enter their email address to receive more information on the Habit Heroes app which is available for Apple and Android mobile devices. Right now, there is just one mission and code word per card, but the attraction itself plus the app ensure lots of return visits to Habit Heroes.

While the Epcot mission takes the Habit Heroes attraction one step beyond, the app truly brings it to the real world, creating healthy families along the way. The app provides the same missions on the cards at the end of the show, as well as backstory on all the Habit Heroes, along with interactive tracking of activity which allow you to unlock content and real world tools for healthy living. The overall message here is positive, healthy changes and how those healthy choices affect us, our friends, and our family.

Guests leaving the attraction were already commenting on how they will now make sure their family stays hydrated throughout the day. This is definitely an interactive attraction that stays with you and keeps the entire family working toward healthy goals. As Brian Wansink, Ph.D. from Cornell University and the Director of Cornell Food and Brand Lab puts it, “Habit Heroes is incredible because it’s not just about learning…it’s about learning and turning it into action. That’s the nice thing about this is that when people leave, they’ve got a plan of how to make their life healthier.” That is definitely the message I took away; kids and adults alike are given the lesson and the tools to turn those lessons into life changes.

In addition to all of that – it’s just plain fun. My four year old loved it the two times he got to play and couldn’t wait to bring his older sister and brother back so each of them could be a different color and get all the bad habits. The app is a great addition to keep the lessons and the momentum going, leading to lifelong lessons and positive habits down the road.

Habit Heroes is sponsored and presented by Blue Cross/Blue Shield. I was provided with a preview of the attraction from Disney – my thoughts and opinions are my own. You can also learn more at HabitHeroes.com.

See more photos from Habit Heroes:

Photo Tour of the Epcot’s All-New Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar in Italy

1 May 2012 by Suzannah Otis 4 Comments

Construction is finally complete and today saw the grand opening of Tutto Gusto (gusto means flavor or taste in Italian) wine cellar in Epcot’s Italy pavilion at the World Showcase. The new building blends right in to the existing Tutto Italia restaurant while making a nice segue to Via Napoli’s more rustic stable-like structure.

While the Italy pavilion is now dominated by dining options, the new additions of Via Napoli almost two years ago and now Tutto Gusto really make a nice “village” feel to the area. With the exception of the smoking area that seems to have cropped up around the fountain, Italy now is a place I’d love to just sit and take in the lovely architecture and atmosphere.

Tutto Gusto will be a great option for those looking for a quick bite or dessert or a glass or two from the over 200 wines offered in their collection. The menu offers small plates such as cured meats, cheeses, panini, and pasta as well as desserts. We’ll be back soon to do a full review, but for now, I thought I’d leave you with some photos to whet your appetite, including the menu. Divertiti!

Click to enlarge all photos in the gallery below:

Beautiful mosaic tile work inside Tutto Italia.

Will you add Tutto Gusto to your World Showcase tour?

What is #DisneySMMoms? Disney’s Social Media Moms Celebration!

13 April 2012 by Suzannah Otis 8 Comments

From the first moment I discovered a little thing called “social media” I realized that the Disney online community was a powerful and devoted force. Disney knows this too, and Walt Disney World has had a team in place for many years now, inviting bloggers to experience the World and share those experiences with their readers. Of course the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (which now includes Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Line, RunDisney, and Disneyland) was perhaps the company’s first real visible foray into the worlds of social media and it has only grown from there. Even before I was selected as a member of the 2010 and 2011 Moms Panel, I was witnessing tweets from mom bloggers being hosted by Disney, organized by charter moms panelist and public relations maven, Laura Spencer and the Social Media/Public Relations team. I thought it was such a great idea to have bloggers of all types – mom bloggers, food bloggers, latina bloggers, bloggers of color, even Disney bloggers, see the Walt Disney World Resort first hand, and in turn spread that knowledge to readers everywhere. I know as a Disney/theme park/travel blogger, I have a certain readership that may expect Disney news or updates. However, for those who typically blog about day to day parenting topics, write reviews, or have another niche altogether, Disney knowledge may not be as widespread.

With the success of other blogging conferences, Disney decided to throw their mouse ears in the ring and hold their own pixie-dusted blogging conference. First held in 2010, the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration has been a coveted conference from the start. Abbreviated on twitter with the hashtag #DisneySMMoms, each year has offered attendees and their families an amazing opportunity to experience the Walt Disney World Resort at deeply discounted prices, enjoy a Deluxe Resort hotel, Disney park tickets, Disney dining and special tours. All while hosting some incredibly inspiring and informative speakers for the blogging crowd. Along with the process of connecting with other bloggers and receiving valuable tips on business, writing, and promoting yourself and your site, attendees are also given something Disney is most famous for – memories to last a lifetime.

In the past, attendees have gotten to see the Muppets, experience gourmet food and healthy kids alternatives, experience the special tours and events the Walt Disney World Resort has to offer, and hear famous personalities from Guy Kawasaki and Maxine Clark to Chris Brogan, Renee Sylar and David Tutera, share their business and personal successes. This year, we will again hear inspiring stories, but a lot of the focus also seems to be on the resort itself, with optional breakout sessions including meeting author Ridley Pearson, the amazing Wild Africa Trek, meeting with some of the amazing teams behind the Disney Parks blog and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, and a behind the scenes tour of the all new Fantasyland expansion. The difference this year is that attendees were given these choices, so we will all be experiencing something different. For those following along the tweets, facebook and blog updates from attendees, you will now be reading completely unique updates. It certainly gives you a reason to check out the other bloggers and see what they are doing and sharing.

With that said, and with the 2012 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration less than two weeks away, I thought it would be a great opportunity to link up the bloggers who will be in attendance so we can all get to know them better. And before you think it’s JUST MOMS that will be there – guess again. There have been dads and non-parent bloggers each year. Truly, something for everyone – just like Disney!

Edit: The 2013 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration will be held from May 9-12 at the Walt Disney World Resort. I will not be attending this year, but feel free to submit your blog info in the comments below if you’d like to add yourself to the list. 🙂

I’m asking Disney Social Media Moms attendees to submit their blog links below and for all of us to check them out and be sure to follow along ~~April 26-29~~ May 9-12 as they embark on their magical blogging conference! Thank you to Disney, especially Laura Spencer and Leanne Jakubowski and their teams for tirelessly organizing these events each year!

(check back to these links below as more attendees add their info!)

Disclosure: many thanks to Disney’s Social Media Team for inviting me to register for the 2012 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. All opinions are, as always, my own. I have not been compensated or asked to post about Disney (I just can’t help myself!)