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Haunted Mansion

Hidden Details of the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World – Up the Waterfall

7 October 2020 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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One of the things that separates amusement parks from theme parks, is just that, the theme. Theming takes you out of the real world and puts you into the environment that the creators want you to experience and be a part of. In the realm of theme parks, Disney has been the leader for quite some time. Part of what helps Disney achieve that status, is “story” or backstory if you will, and the layer upon layer of detail used to create that story.

On this week’s Up the Waterfall show, we focus on Magic Kingdom and some of its many hidden details. All of these details pull you into the story, if you take the time to notice them. We list our favorites, but because we didn’t want a 3 hour show, we don’t mention ALL of the details, as there really are stories behind everything.

We start right at the front of the Magic Kingdom and go clockwise through the lands: Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. The list below will serve as a guide along with the podcast, leaving out any we didn’t mention, and room for more we may add!

Main Street, U.S.A.  

Walt Disney World Railroad Main Street Station: there are quite a few timetables with references to other Disney parks, movies, and characters.

Main Street Windows: most everyone knows that the names on the windows of Main Street, U.S.A. reference Imagineers and folks involved in the creation and legacy of Walt Disney World and Disney Parks in general. We reference the Windows on Main Street book from 2009, which is a great guide to the stories behind these windows. There’s also an updated version from 2014, Main Street Windows: A Complete Guide to Disney’s Whimsical Tributes.

The Chapeau Telephone: this is an old favorite, you used to be able to listen to several full conversations on there. According to our friends at the RoadSideTrippers instagram account, they checked it out about a week ago, and sadly the line kept cutting out a lot, so it wasn’t up to its old performance. Hopefully when times are better, Disney can spare some love for this little detail.

Adventureland

Jungle Cruise: most of us remember the half a plane used in the Casablanca scene of the Great Movie Ride (rest in peace), well the other half of that plane is right in the Jungle Cruise!

skipper canteen bookshelves

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen: This relatively new (by Magic Kingdom standards) restaurant is chock full of references to the Jungle Cruise itself and other Disney attractions and names. Right as you enter you are greeting with a painting of Dr. Albert Falls, and an abstract of his wife Alberta, who opened up the restaurant. Once inside, the doors on the second floor are nods to original Imagineers and legends, including Marc Davis, Harper Goff, and Bill Evans, landscape designer for Disneyland and the Jungle Cruise itself.

The real magic (and hidden details), however, lies in the bookcases which lead to the “hidden” rooms of the restaurant. Almost every book in the shelves is some reference or pun, including author names like “Cap Size” and “Sid Truss” along with nods to created characters like Merriweather Pleasure of Pleasure Island lore, and even “Vagnini” a nod to former archivist, Disney Imagineer (and friend!) Steven Vagnini. We won’t list all the titles and names here, but be sure to check them out next visit. We didn’t even touch on all of the S.E.A. references in this spot, so stay tuned for a future discussion on that very topic.

Tortuga Tavern: Scott gives us the rundown on the rich backstory of this spot, with lots more than just the book with some characters’ names written in it! Be sure to look around next time you visit.

Frontierland

Pecos Bill’s: yes, another restaurant – but it’s really a great way to insert lots of details that you don’t have to worry about being missed as you ride by in an attraction! Funny thing, I actually missed most of the ones Scott mentioned in Pecos Bill’s! Sounds like I need to get back there right quick! We touched briefly on the redux of the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad queue area, but again, this is a spot that we feel needs more attention than just a part of a podcast. If you have a favorite, let us know (I am very partial to the Barnabus T. Bullion painting that looks eerily like my beloved Tony Baxter – the Imagineer responsible for Big Thunder Mountain of course).

Liberty Square

The enjoyable part about Liberty Square is that so much of its detail can be traced back to actual history. In all cases of Disney parks planning, Imagineers go above and beyond to have authentic details, pay homage to actual places or events, or at the very least expand upon the references we know and love. Liberty Square is no exception. With homages to “2 if by sea” lanterns, use of the original Liberty Bell mold to cast the Disney version, and architecture that looks like you are walking through historic Boston or Philadelphia, it’s a wonderful place to explore.

Fantasyland

Cinderella’s Fountain: or La Fountaine de Cindrillon in French, is a beautiful little detail. I recently discussed it on my zannaland instagram page as well, which was actually the impetus for this episode!

Sir Mickey’s: a very fun shop with lots of great visuals to see right off the bat (giant vines from a beanstalk and the face of a giant peeking in from the eaves), to minute details referencing two original Mickey shorts.

Under The Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid: As we know, this was once the spot of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. We show you all the hidden references to this original ride in the Fantasyland area, and a special hidden Steamboat Willie as well.

Nautilus Little Mermaid

Tomorrowland

Robotic Palm Trees: this is a favorite “fun fact” that gets thrown around, but we couldn’t not mention it. The backstory is that the Tomorrowland Power Company uses these metal palm trees to harvest the suns rays, and the “coconuts” that grow are “energy balls” to harvest and provide power for the citizens of Tomorrowland.

Tomorrowland palm trees
photo: Shawn Spencer

Space Mountain Queue: There is a rich rundown of hidden details within the queue, including references to other Disney theme parks and their Space Mountains, as well as former “futuristic” attractions. We mention our favorites on the show.

We had to end our episode there, but we know there are so many more we didn’t mention. Listen or watch below and let us know your favorite details or what we missed. We’d love to hear from you. And make sure you look up, look down, and look all around next time you’re in the Magic Kingdom! Scroll down to see where to listen and connect with us, but before that, as mentioned on this episode, we’d like to share some places to help displaced Cast Members, many of whom are Imagineers or directly responsible for the details we know and love. If you can, please help. Thank you.

Ways to Help Laid Off Cast Members: 

As we mentioned on the end of the show, it is such a devastating time for so many. As locals, and a Cast Member family, we want to spread the word as much as possible about ways to help if you can. 

Cast Member Pantry Facebook group for Orlando area Cast Members

Ear for Each Other Facebook group featuring Cast Members from both coasts offering their services or talents for sale

Google Sheet with Cast Member run Small Shops and businesses

Also check out our friends Sarah and Tom Bricker’s post on ways to help, including donating to the Second Harvest Food Bank in both Orlando and Orange County, California. Thank you for reading, and thank you for helping the magic makers. 


As always, we thank you for watching and listening! If you enjoyed, please share with a friend so more folks can learn about our growing podcast! Thank you!

Listen to Up the Waterfall:

You can listen anywhere you download and listen to podcasts, including: 

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Google Podcasts
  • Spotify
  • Stitcher
  • I Heart Radio
  • Anchor

(If there’s a podcast service where you can’t find our show, let us know and we’ll get it added there!)

Watch Up the Waterfall:

Head to our Up the Waterfall YouTube Playlist – where you can see our opening sequence and see some unique images during some episodes.

Feel free to comment below with your opinions on ANY of these movie choices, any questions or info you’d like to add, or if it’s easier, head to the Zannaland Facebook page and join the discussion there with fellow Disney Parks fans!

Zannaland and Up the Waterfall Community – Let’s Connect!

FOLLOW THE ZANNALAND FAMILY ON SOCIAL MEDIA, WATCH OUR VIDEOS, VLOGS AND PODCAST TOO: 
  • Twitter: @zannaland, @otisney
  • Instagram: @zannaland, @UpTheWaterfall, @otisney
  • Zannaland’s facebook page, Up the Waterfall on Facebook
  • Zannaland on YouTube
  • Listen to Up the Waterfall podcast, subscribe on iTunes, or watch Up the Waterfall on YouTube

We thank you for your support and for sharing the love! 

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Filed Under: Disney Attractions, Disney Parks, Resorts, & Entertainment, Top Stories, Up the Waterfall Podcast, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Disney Attractions, Disney rides, Great Movie Ride, Haunted Mansion, Hidden Details Magic Kingdom, Hidden Disney Details, Hidden Mickeys, Magic Kingdom, Up the Waterfall podcast, Up the Waterfall show

Scariest Disney Rides! – Up the Waterfall Episode 41

23 September 2020 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

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This week we wanted to stick with the Halloween/Spooky theme on Up the Waterfall. However, we may have gotten more than we bargained for. We reached deep into our memory banks and discovered childhood traumas that we didn’t realize stuck with us for so long. In other words – the Scariest Rides at Disney parks!

I think many of us can relate to the rides we discuss, especially former classics like Snow White’s Scary Adventures, and certain sections of the Great Movie Ride, as well as of course – Alien Encounter. We somehow made it through our therapy session and are now ready to share it with you! I apparently totally mis-remembered the original Snow White’s Scary Adventures as having flat cut outs of the hag popping out to get me. The real thing looks to be much, much creepier. I guess my memories were self-preservation!

Alien Encounter
The Extra TERRORestrial Alien Encounter

What are your childhood memories of scary Disney rides? Did we leave any out that really scared you as a child (or still do?!) Let us know in the comments below or track us down on social media – you can find all the links below too…and a ghost…will follow you home!!

 

 


As always, we thank you for watching and listening! If you enjoyed, please share with a friend so more folks can learn about our growing podcast! Thank you!

Listen to Up the Waterfall:

You can listen anywhere you download and listen to podcasts, including: 

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Google Podcasts
  • Spotify
  • Stitcher
  • I Heart Radio
  • Anchor

(If there’s a podcast service where you can’t find our show, let us know and we’ll get it added there!)

Watch Up the Waterfall:

Head to our Up the Waterfall YouTube Playlist – where you can see our opening sequence and see some unique images during some episodes.

Feel free to comment below with your opinions on ANY of these movie choices, any questions or info you’d like to add, or if it’s easier, head to the Zannaland Facebook page and join the discussion there with fellow Disney Parks fans!

Zannaland and Up the Waterfall Community – Let’s Connect!

FOLLOW THE ZANNALAND FAMILY ON SOCIAL MEDIA, WATCH OUR VIDEOS, VLOGS AND PODCAST TOO: 
  • Twitter: @zannaland, @otisney
  • Instagram: @zannaland, @UpTheWaterfall, @otisney
  • Zannaland’s facebook page, Up the Waterfall on Facebook
  • Zannaland on YouTube
  • Listen to Up the Waterfall podcast, subscribe on iTunes, or watch Up the Waterfall on YouTube

We thank you for your support and for sharing the love! 

Up the Waterfall logo

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Filed Under: Disney Attractions, Disney Parks, Resorts, & Entertainment, Up the Waterfall Podcast Tagged With: Alien Encounter, Disney Attractions, Disney rides, Great Movie Ride, Haunted Mansion, Scariest Disney attractions, Scariest Disney rides, Snow White's Scary Adventures, Up the Waterfall podcast, Up the Waterfall show

Haunted Mansion Dooney & Bourke 2020 Designs

21 September 2020 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Just in time for the 2020 Halloween season, another new design has joined the Disney Dooney & Bourke lineup! This pattern is being added to the existing Haunted Mansion designs, but in a new way. Previous Haunted Mansion Dooney & Bourke patterns included the familiar Haunted Mansion wallpaper design. In 2018, there was a pattern with a black background and a fun art style featuring classic faces from the ride.

Disney Dooney Haunted Mansion 2020

For the Disney Dooney & Bourke Haunted Mansion 2020 edition, it’s a teal blue background with familiar faces and icons from the classic Disneyland and Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion attraction. The art style for these new designs is similar to that of Shag, without actually being a Shag creation. The allover print pattern features familiar spirits from The Haunted Mansion, including Madame Leota, Hitchhiking Ghosts, Caretaker, The Bride, Hatbox Ghost, Stretching Portraits, Singing Busts and many more

There are currently 4 different styles available on ShopDisney and I’m sure we’ll see them in parks soon as well.  Let’s take a closer look:

2020 haunted mansion dooney satchel
Dooney & Bourke Haunted Mansion  Satchel – $268

 

Haunted Mansion 2020 Dooney Crossbody Bag
Haunted Mansion 2020 Dooney & Bourke Crossbody Bag – $198

 

haunted mansion dooney backpack
2020 Haunted Mansion Dooney & Bourke Backpack – $248

 

Dooney & Bourke Haunted Mansion 2020 wallet
Dooney & Bourke 2020 Haunted Mansion Wallet – $178

Which is your favorite style? Will you be adding the Haunted Mansion 2020 designs to your Disney Dooney & Bourke collection? There are some other fun Loungfly Haunted Mansion designs you may enjoy too!

Be sure to check out the Epcot Food & Wine Festival 2020 merchandise while you are there and see the Food & Wine Disney Dooney & Bourke designs for 2020 too!


Select Disney Dooney & Bourke handbags are available at Shop Disney– including an adorable Jungle Book Dooney design which came out in July and we love! There’s also a cool Geometric Mickey design, if you’re looking for a more subtle Disney connection.

If you’re looking for a particular bag and can’t find it on ShopDisney, try the Merchandise Hotline. The number for Walt Disney World Resort is 407-363-6200 or 407-828-1451. They may be able to help you out. Be sure to have as much info about the pattern name and bag style as you can.

Disclosure: *ShopDisney.com links are affiliate links, which means it costs you nothing extra to click or buy, but if you do, the site gets a small commission and you help support zannaland. Thanks for reading!

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Disney News, Latest News Tagged With: D&B, designer bags, designer handbags, designer purses, Disney Dooney, Disney Dooney & Bourke, Disney Dooney 2020, Disney Haunted Mansion, Disney Haunted Mansion Dooney, Disney Merchandise, Disney purses, Dooney and Bourke, Downtown Disney, Haunted Mansion, Haunted Mansion 2020, Haunted Mansion Dooney, Haunted Mansion Dooney & Bourke, Haunted Mansion Dooney & Bourke 2020

NEW Disney Dooney and Bourke HAUNTED MANSION Handbag

4 September 2013 by Suzannah Otis 10 Comments

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This just in from the Disney Parks Blog. Disney Dooney & Bourke and Haunted Mansion Fans rejoice! This newest design is sure to bring out lots of ghouls to line up and bring home this bag! It’s definitely the kind of ghost I’d like to follow me home! Ok, enough Haunted Mansion puns, on to the bags! Here’s the official scoop from the Parks Blog (all photos ©Disney):

Haunted Mansion Dooney Haunted Mansion Dooney

 

I think Disney Design Group artist Mark Seppala did a wonderful job capturing the essence of the attraction with this new bag. I love the subtle details on the bag, including the spooky grey and black color palette with red interior, the infamous wallpaper pattern, and even the hang tag with the attraction logo.

Haunted Mansion Dooney Haunted Mansion Dooney

The bag will have a retail of $330.00 (plus tax), and will be released at the following merchandise locations starting September 13, 2013.

Walt Disney World Resort:

  • Tren-D and the World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney Marketplace
  • Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom Park
  • MouseGear at Epcot
  • Keystone Clothiers at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • Summer Lace at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disneyland Resort:

  • Disney Vault 28 and World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney District
  • Disney Clothiers at Disneyland park
  • Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure park

The Disney Parks online store will also carry this bag later this fall. See other new Dooney and Bourke Arrivals Exclusively for Disney Parks Now Available at DisneyStore.com! Shop Now!*

So, who’s in?? I know I’ll be adding this to my collection for sure!

 

*Affiliate links – same Disney Store destination and shopping experience, with a small portion of any purchase going back to zannaland.com. No additional fees to you. 

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Top Stories, Walt Disney World Tagged With: D&B, designer bags, designer handbags, designer purses, Disney Dooney, Disney Dooney & Bourke, Disney Haunted Mansion, Disney Haunted Mansion Dooney, Disney Merchandise, Disney purses, Disneyland Resort, Dooney and Bourke, Downtown Disney, handbags, Haunted Mansion, Haunted Mansion Dooney, Haunted Mansion Dooney & Bourke, leather, purses, Tren-D, Vault 28

Disney Parks Weekly Merchandise Report

26 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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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 Snowglobe
Mickey Snowglobe
Disney Snowglobe
Mickey Snowglobe
Disney Snowglobe
Ariel Snowglobe
Disney Snowglobe
Castle Snowglobe
Disney Magnets
Poppins Penguins Magnet
Disney Magnets
Sewing Service Magnet
Disney Magnets
Conscience Counseling Magnet
Disney Magnets
Forest Friends 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
Disney Princess Music Box
Rapunzel Music Box
Disney Princess Music Box
Ariel Music Box
Disney Princess Music Box
Belle Music Box
Disney Princess Music Box
Aurora Music Box
Disney Princess Music Box
Cinderella Music Box
Disney Princess Bag
Ariel Tote Bag
Disney Princess Bag
Aurora Tote Bag
Disney Princess Bag
Cinderella Tote Bag

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 Minnie Mouse Home Decor
Minnie Mouse Photo Frame Set
Disney Minnie Mouse Home Decor
Minnie Mouse Water Bottle
Disney Minnie Mouse Home Decor
Minnie Mouse Jewelry Box
Disney Minnie Mouse Home Decor
Minnie Mouse Jewelry Hanger
Disney Haunted Mansion
Haunted Mansion Frame
Disney Haunted Mansion
Haunted Mansion Hour Glass
Disney Haunted Mansion
Another look at the Haunter Mansion Hour Glass
Disney Haunted Mansion
Haunted Mansion Coaster Set

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 Childs Costume
Pocahontas 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
Disney Antenna Topper
Grumpy Antenna Topper
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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Top Stories, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Dinsey merchandise report, Disney, Disney Merchandise, Disney merchandise news, Disney News, Disney parks, Haunted Mansion, jewelry hanger, Minnie Mouse, mouse ears ornaments, music boxes, princess tote bag, snow globes, Walt Disney World

Gift Guide: Disney Magic for Your iPhone!

25 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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It’s holiday time, and that means it’s time to pick up some Disney swag for the main Mouse in your life. But what should you wrap up in pretty paper and put under the tree this year? Jen from MickeyFix.com has put together a quick list to help you select the perfect protection for your giftee’s ever-present iPhone.

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Epcot Nerds

What do all Epcot nerds love more than a geodesic sphere? A retro-styled geodesic sphere! This Spaceship Earth iPhone case will not only protect your holiday honey’s precious device, it’ll also allow him to show off his unrelenting love of the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.

epcot-case

 

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Haunted Mansion Spooks

If the thought of damaging her iPhone gives your Mouseketeer hot and cold running chills, we have the perfect gift for her: this perfectly disquieting Haunted Mansion iPhone case. There’s no turning back now …

mansion-case

 

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Star Wars Geeks

This is not the case you were looking for … it’s so much better! The Force is strong with this one, and your Star Wars geek will carry the Mickey Ear Death Star iPhone case with pride.

deathstar-case

 

Best Disney iPhone Case for … Disney Dreamers

If thoughts of Pixie Dust and Neverland make her heart skip a beat, let her enjoy it on a daily basis with this Peter Pan iPhone Case. Just make sure she avoids that Hook…I hear he’s no good. 😉

Peter Pan Case

 

Which of these cases is right for the Disney obsessive in your life?

 

About the author:
Jen S. spends her free time chronicling v. cool Disney things over at MickeyFix.com. If you don’t see something you like here, check out other Disney Gift Guides on Mickey Fix!

 

 

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Guest Authors Tagged With: death star, Death Star iPhone case, Disney artwork, Disney designs, disney gift, Disney Gift Guides, Disney iPhone covers, Disney magic, Disney Merchandise, Disney shopping, Disney shopping guide, Epcot, Epcot iphone case, experimental prototype community of tomorrow, geodesic sphere, Guest Authors, Guest posts, Haunted Mansion, Haunted Mansion iPhone case, iPhone covers, Mickey Fix, MickeyFix.com, peter pan, Peter Pan iPhone case, pixie dust, Spaceship Earth, star wars geeks

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Delivers Treats For All!

18 September 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Autumn decor welcomes you to the Magic Kingdom

Once the holiday decorations appear on the train station and light posts at the Magic Kingdom, the best time of the year begins in the place where dreams come true. The crowds are drastically reduced after Labor Day, and some really unique events start up for lucky visitors. One of my favorites to attend each year is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The “Not-So-Scary” is important because so many area theme parks do offer super-scary events for those looking for a more haunted Halloween experience. However, in the Magic Kingdom, the tradition has always been to offer family fun with a sprinkling of Haunted Mansion-style spookiness.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a hard-ticketed special event, which means on certain dates, the Magic Kingdom will close early and a special ticket will be required to attend the party. Is it worth it? I always answer a resounding “YES!” when asked. Here’s a quick run-down of why:

  • No Crowds – The party is limited to a certain number of guests, which means you can ride Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain and yes, even Peter Pan’s Flight with almost no wait. Pro Tip: If you go during the parades or fireworks, it’s virtually walk-on.
  • Free Candy – That’s right, you can trick-or-treat during the event, and not just little ones. Adults and grumpy teenagers with no costumes alike can all fill their bags with candy at various locations throughout the park.
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
It’s a zip-a-dee-doo-dah day for treats!

 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Carved pumpkins in the Splash Mountain candy trail

 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Mr. Bluebird approves of trick-or-treating!

 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Back again this year is a treat station down by the river boat – loved this addition last year.

 

  • “Boo-to-You” Parade – Veteran Disney guests may think, “eh, a parade, how exciting could it be?” but let me tell you, this is the best parade of the season and worth the party ticket! First, you get a visit from the Headless Horseman who trots down the parade route prior to its start. It’s always an exciting sight to witness and gets everyone fired up for the parade to follow. The parade itself is full of unique and amazing floats. The Haunted Mansion attraction is brought to life, with dancing gravediggers who make quite the “spark” followed by hitchhiking and ballroom dancing ghosts. Next up, the villains we know and love pass by, and just for fun, some cowboy and cowgirl action followed by Clara Cluck, a crowd favorite. Goofy rounds out the parade with his Candy Company contraption, as more candy is handed out among the crowd. Pro Tip: visit attractions during the first parade and stick around for the second one at 10:30.

Here is the Headless Horseman’s ride:

Boo to You Parade
The Gravediggers are my favorite part of the parade!

 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Clara Cluck waves to her fans

 

  • Happy HalloWishes Fireworks Spectacular – You may have seen fireworks, you may have even seen Wishes, but HalloWishes will blow them all away. Favorite spooky music and villains’ voices fill the air as fireworks fill the sky, and I do mean FILL the sky. HalloWishes is known for its perimeter fireworks, meaning you are surrounded by them at various points in the show, especially the finale. It’s a truly amazing experience.

 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Highlights from HalloWishes – we actually watched from Tomorrowland this year.

 

  • Costumes – one of my favorite parts of attending the Halloween party is just people watching. You see some real creativity on display as folks appear as their favorite Disney or other characters, sometimes as a group theme. It’s just so fun, especially when you see really obscure things that you have to try and guess. There are always some great Hitchhiking Ghosts on hand, and over the last few years I’ve seen quite a few characters from Disney-Pixar’s UP, including young Carl and Ellie, Russell and Carl, and more. It’s a unique experience at every party of the season! Also – you’ll find some of your favorite Disney characters in their own costumes for photo opportunities too, so keep an eye out.

In addition to the above, there is a fun Villains Mix & Mingle show at the Castle stage, and a few Character Dance Parties throughout the park, if your little ghosts have some sugar to burn off. Speaking of, there are healthy non-candy choices available for trick-or-treating as well, just ask the costumed cast members where those options are as you get your treats.

 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
The spooky gets spookier during the Halloween party – as do the Haunted Mansion cast members…keep an eye out!

 

Some of my other favorite parts of attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are the unique decorations and lighting designs throughout the park. Keep an eye out for spooky shadows projected on the ground – new this year is a skull shining on Big Thunder Mountain, and the Halloween-colored lighting down Main Street, U.S.A. is a fun sight to see.

 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Watch out for web-surfers!

 

Bottom line, get thee to the Halloween party! It is so worth it and I think it’s virtually impossible not to have a good time. I haven’t even touched on all of the things you can only see during these special events, some of them, you’ll just have to head over and experience for yourself. I did mention the free candy, right?

Party dates in 2012 are:

  • Sept. 11, 14, 18 21, 25, 28, 30;
  • Oct. 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25, 28, 30 and 31;
  • Nov. 2.

Advance savings of $6 per ticket are available for select dates. Special after-hours tickets are required. For additional information, guests may visit www.disneyworld.com/halloween. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling 407/W-DISNEY.

Disclosure: Disney provided me with four tickets to this event, but did not ask me to write about it. All opinions are my own.

 

 

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Filed Under: Disney Holidays, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Disney Special Events, Theme Park Holiday Events, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Boo to You Parade, Disney Halloween, Disney Special Events, Disney World, free candy, Halloween, halloween experience, halloween party, HalloWishes, Haunted Mansion, holiday decorations, Magic Kingdom, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, MNSSHP, Walt Disney World, WDW

Disney Parks Blog Trick-or-Meet Up a Spooky Success!

30 September 2011 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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You’re probably used to coming here and reading about how great Disney is in some way or another. Well, after a special event last night, be prepared for me to gush about Disney. I’m speaking of the Disney Parks Blog “Trick-or-Meet Up” which took place last night in the Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square after park closing. This was the Disney Parks Blog team’s second-ever tweet-up, the first being the after-hours Star Tours grand re-opening event. I have been lucky enough to attend both and while I had a wonderful time at the Star Tours tweet-up, I have to say, the team really outdid themselves for this Treat-Up.

Guests were encouraged to dress in costume for the event, and many obliged the request. Lots of fun costumes from both attendees and cast members. It was so fun to see creativity in full-force. We all checked in at Blizzard Beach and awaited the all-clear so we could head over in luxury – Disney Cruise Line buses – for the Treat-Up to begin. We were shuttled backstage and entered by the Splash Mountain Frontierland parade gate. Even as a former cast member, these special chances to get behind the magic are always exciting. Of course no photos of this out of respect for the show.

Tom Nicole and Marissa
Thomas Smith from the Disney Parks Blog, Nicole Siscaretti with her prize-winning Stretching Room ballerina girl costume and Marissa May also from the Disney team

We were ushered over to the Hall of Presidents, where those in costume could pose for formal photos before taking a seat. This was a perfectly organized event and I loved the way it was presented. Getting to hear Director of Social Media, Leanne Jakubowski, speak and introduce members of the Disney Parks Blog team in attendance was wonderful. Gary Buchannan, ever the jokester, was dressed as a giant Disney turkey leg, complete with nametag. Also present were Thomas Smith (aka Indiana Jones), Laura Spencer, Marissa May (as Boo!) and Jennifer Fickley-Baker as well as Steven Miller who escaped the Grid for the night in his TRON: Legacy costume. I sometimes take for granted the names and faces I know through my experiences with the Walt Disney World Moms Panel and this blog, but it was so nice to see the team interacting with guests.

Jason Surrell
Jason Surrell entertains and educates in the Hall of Presidents

Jason Surrell, gifted Imagineer and Haunted Mansion fanboy all rolled into one, was our first ghost-host for the evening. Inside the Hall of Presidents, he recounted some of Walt Disney World’s Haunted Mansion history and differences in the other Haunted Mansion attractions at Disney Parks world-wide. He let us know how important it was for current Imagineers to honor the work of the original designers of the Mansion, noting that Pete Carsillo, who apprenticed under Imagineer Blaine Gibson, took the designs to Mr. Gibson to get his blessing before proceeding. Jason then took questions from the audience which provided more laughs and entertainment for all.

After the presentation, we were each given a pre-filled trick-or-treat bag with a schedule of the evening’s events. We could then head over for drinks and a dessert buffet in the form of Mickey rice krispie treats, chocolate-covered brownie spiders and white chocolate cheesecake eyeballs. Ghoulish delights!

Pete Carsillo
Pete Carsillo explaining the details behind the Haunted Mansion queue (image courtesy of Nicole Siscaretti)

 

Small tours were given of the new interactive Haunted Mansion queue and by two of its designers, Pete Carsillo and Eric Goodman. So far this year, I’ve had the opportunity to meet five Imagineers. I’m not sure what I expected (other than me not being worthy?), but I am consistently shocked by how down to earth, welcoming and genuine they all have been. Pete and Eric are no exception. It was a treat to see how excited they both were by the details, homages and hidden connections within the queue. I can’t wait to go back in the daylight and see some of the details they described.

Haunted Mansion
Haunted Mansion lit up for the evening

 

Throughout the night various characters were roaming Liberty Square: costumed Donald, Daisy, Mickey and Minnie, Dr. Facilier, who is my new favorite face character at Magic Kingdom, a couple of Mansion ghost sisters, Dapper Dans in Ghoulish form, and extra spooky Haunted Mansion cast members. Trick-or-treat stations were also set up in the square giving us even more treats than we’d already received.

Mansion Ghost
A ghostly resident

 

Randomly selected guests were given blue wristbands at check-in which provided them with a Haunted Mansion hitchhiking ghost poster, signed by the artist, Tom May. I was one of those selected, as was my friend and cohort, Nicole! While picking up our posters, we got a chance to speak some more with Jason Surrell, whose parents and wife were there with him. Again proving how down to earth and real these amazing creative forces are. The fact that Disney has facilitated these experiences is just wonderful and truly how Walt would have wanted it, I feel. To see the number of young high school and college kids on twitter inspired by these Imagineers makes me excited and confident for the future of Walt Disney’s legacy.

Headless Horseman
The Headless Horseman bids us farewell

 

The evening ended with a private viewing of the Headless Horseman trotting through the square, which is always a thrilling sight. On our way back to the busses, we were each gifted with a hitchhiking ghost poster and a Nightmare Before Christmas Pumpkin King Vinylmation. I was blown away by the generosity of Disney at this free event. The personal level of interaction, the behind-the-scenes tours and feeling like the Disney Parks team was just as happy to be there as we were, made for an A+ event from start to finish. Thank you again, Disney Parks Blog team, Imagineers, and everyone that made last night a thrilling success. I know I’m not alone in hoping there will be a similar holiday tweet-up in the next few months!

Trick or Meet Up
The Disney Parks Blog was so generous!

 

The Disney Parks Blog recently launched their facebook page, with behind-the-scenes videos and tidbits. Be sure to “Like” the page and follow on twitter to get the latest news and updates.

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Filed Under: Disney Holidays, Disney News, Disney Special Events, Walt Disney World Tagged With: #WDWTreatUp, Disney Parks Blog, Eric Goldman, Gary Buchanan, Haunted Mansion, Haunted Mansion queue, Jason Surrell, Laura Spencer, Leanne Jakubowski, Marrissa May, Pete Carsillo, Steven Miller, Thomas Smith, Tom May, Trick-or-Meet Up

Disney Cruise Line Fantasy Limited Edition Ear Hat & More New Designs

29 September 2011 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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This morning, Disney Merchandise Communications Manager, pal, and all-around great guy, Steven Miller visited the local Fox station to share some of the fun 40th Anniversary merchandiseavailable at Walt Disney World. When I saw what he was sharing, I had to snap some photos and in turn share here. I’m sure there will be more announcements and better photos coming soon, but for now, enjoy what I snagged of the ol’ tee vee screen!

Steven Miller
Steven Miller about to show off the fabulous Kevin Kidney/Jody Daily Contemporary Resort vase
Haunted Mansion Ear band
I haven't yet seen this in the parks - but could this be a Haunted Mansion-themed Ear head band WITH a tiny hat? Come to mama! (I could be wrong, but either way, they look great!)
Tiny Hat Mouse Ear Headbands
Another adorable one, could this be Dumbo-themed? Circus stripes, top hat, feather?
DCL Fantasy Ear Hat box
The cool steamer trunk box for the Fantasy Ear Hat
DCL Fantasy Ear Hat
Front of the Disney Cruise Line Fantasy Limited Edition Ear Hat - the porthole ears are a nod to multi-plane cameras pioneered by Disney in the past!
DCL Fantasy Ear Hat back
The back of the Fantasy ear hat

Thanks Steven and Disney Design Group cast member Mark for sharing these with us this morning! Can’t wait for more fun new merchandise from Disney Parks.

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Filed Under: Disney Cruise Line, Disney Merchandise, Disney Special Events, Walt Disney World Tagged With: DCL, DCL ear hats, DCL Fantasy, Disney 40th Anniversary merchandise, Disney Cruise Line Fantasy, Disney Cruise Line Fantasy Limited Edition ear hats, Disney Cruise Line merchandise, Disney Merchandise, Dumbo, Ear hats, Haunted Mansion, Kevin & Jody merchandise, Limited Edition, Mouse ear hats, Mouse ear headbands, Steven Miller, WDW 40th Anniversary merchandise, WDW merchandise

A Closer Look at the New Haunted Mansion Interactive Queue

11 May 2011 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

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Haunted Mansion Queue I’m sure by now you’ve seen and heard of the new interactive queue that’s been added to Walt Disney World’s Haunted Mansion. I took these photos about a month ago but you know how it is, things are often as busy in ZannaLand as they are in any other land! Despite the lack of scoop on these photos, I figured I’d share them here anyway, mostly because I know my mom hasn’t seen them yet, so hey, that’s at least one person! 😉

The great part about these new interactive queues Walt Disney World is creating is that if guests want to experience them, they must separate from the regular standby line, thereby essentially agreeing to engage in a more laid back, slower-paced approach to a ride. The interactive queues are also not accessible by the FastPass line since those guests are clearly on a mission.

When I first walked through the new Haunted Mansion queue, it was a strange feeling. You could stop and really explore the details to each section; posing for photos or trying out all of the interactive elements, but what that meant was that you were also willing to relinquish your spot in line if you wanted to wait for a picture while guests behind you chose to move on. It really goes against everything Disney has drilled into us as guests! Keep moving, no line cutting and definitely don’t hold up the line with silly antics like taking pictures or playing with displays!

At first, people were polite and tended to stay within their ‘places’ but once some saw I was taking kind of a LOT of pictures, they went ahead. And…that was okay. It was sort of a zen-like experience to just let people go and know that we were all getting to the same place anyway (which is really my philosophy in the parks anyway, granted this is easier to do when you are a resident, I know). It was also a lot of fun watching other families and children experiencing everything at the same time. All in all, I think the interactive queues are a great addition and will hopefully foster this new type of park-goer that is more mellow and willing to spend longer to get to the same attraction at a more leisurely pace vs. the ever-present Dumbo-or-die mentality.

And now, without further ado, here is a video montage of my photos from my last visit – designed just to give you an overview, so you can discover them in detail on your own. Make sure you watch till the end for a very special part of the new queue. Of course die-hard Disney fans will notice the previous tombstones honoring Imagineers Marc Davis, X. Atencio, and Yale Gracey among others. The new organ also pays tribute to Thurl Ravenscroft, famous for his part in the singing busts at the end of the ride (as well as the voice of Tony the Tiger and the Grinch songs). Be sure to look for these details on your next visit!

Special thanks to Denise from MouseSteps.com and Jeff and JeffLangeDVD.com for letting me use her photo of the wedding ring in the queue. This was added after I took my photos so I haven’t yet seen it in person. If you’d like to see the interaction in action, check out their video of the Haunted Mansion queue. I’m also including their video of the new Hitchhiking Ghost scene at the end of the ride, if you haven’t yet experienced that (with location of the wedding ring at the end of the video!) —

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Filed Under: Disney Attractions, Disney News, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Haunted Mansion, Haunted Mansion changes, Haunted Mansion queue, Hitchhiking Ghosts, interactive queue, Liberty Square, Magic Kingdom, videos, Walt Disney World

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