05.21.13 – To thank Disney fans for helping us reach this amazing milestone on Twitter, we are giving away Walt Disney Archives merchandise, D23 limited-edition t-shirts, and more in the new “#D23Swag” sweepstakes series.
Here’s How it Works:
Starting on May 30th at 12:00 p.m., PT, we will send out a special message for our Twitter followers to “re-tweet.” You can re-tweet the message any time between when the message is originally sent from @DisneyD23 and 5:00 p.m., PT, that day. Those who re-tweet will automatically be entered into a randomized drawing to win cool D23 swag! For the full set of rules, click here.
Mark Your Calendar:
You’ll have a chance to participate every other Thursday after May 30 (don’t worry, we’ll remind you the day before so you don’t forget)! The sweepstakes series will include the following seven dates: May 30, June 13, June 27, July 11, July 25, August 8, and August 22.
Winning Cool Stuff:
Prizes will include Walt Disney Archives merchandise, D23 limited-edition t-shirts, and more! Winners will be sent a Direct Message via Twitter to verify eligibility—so make sure you’re following @DisneyD23 on Twitter!
Disney Vacation Club Members Can Now Own a Piece of Victorian Splendor Within View of Magic Kingdom Park
Sales Begin Thursday for The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The grandeur of one of the premier properties at the Walt Disney World Resort will meet the family vacation style that only Disney Vacation Club can provide when The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa opens this fall.
Beginning Thursday, May 23, current Disney Vacation Club members will be able to purchase real estate interests at what will be Disney Vacation Club’s 12th resort. General sales will begin June 19.
“We are absolutely thrilled to add this casually elegant new resort to our Disney Vacation Club portfolio,” said Ken Potrock, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Vacation Club. “This resort will welcome families home with modern luxury and style, in a location that can only be described as spectacular. Within walking distance of a monorail ride to the Magic Kingdom, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will serve as an ideal setting for family vacations and create truly cherished memories for our members.”
Disney Vacation Club is building 106 two-bedroom equivalent villas on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon as part of a previously announced expansion of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa that will also include a lively children’s water-play area and other amenities.
Once opened, the new property will feature deluxe studios and one-bedroom villas that sleep five guests, as well as two-bedroom villas that sleep nine guests. Additionally, expansive grand villas will sleep 12 guests and will feature multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as a media room with a home theater system, all designed to bring families closer to create memories that last a lifetime. All of the deluxe studios and villas will feature décor reminiscent of the Victorian era, made playful and relaxed with classic Disney touches.
“When Disney Vacation Club members and guests stay at our newest resort, they will have access to all of the wonderful amenities available nearby at the jewel in the crown of Disney’s vacation kingdom – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – including spectacular pools, award-winning dining, extensive recreation options, and transportation to all of the amazing theme parks at Walt Disney World,” Potrock said.
Scheduled to open in October 2013, this Disney Vacation Club property will be nestled on the picturesque shores of Seven Seas Lagoon between the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Conveniently located nearby is Senses – A Disney Spa, as well as Disney’s Palm and Magnolia Golf Courses.
Disney Vacation Club revolutionized the timeshare industry when it debuted in October 1991 by offering a flexible, vacation point-based model versus the traditional fixed-week timeshare model. Today, more than 175,000 member families from all 50 states and approximately 100 countries have discovered the joys of membership with Disney Vacation Club.
Disney Vacation Club members are able to choose from among a variety of exciting vacation destinations, including a stay at any Disney Vacation Club resort or a jaunt to one of more than 500 other destinations around the world, and when they purchase directly from Disney, members also can take trips on one of the Disney Cruise Line ships or guided vacations with Adventures by Disney. Additionally, vacations at a Disney Vacation Club resort can last from one night to several weeks.
To learn more about Disney Vacation Club or The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, call 800-500-3990 or visit www.disneyvacationclub.com.
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Quest for the Crystal Mickey
Arrives on DVD – May 21, 2013
The newest Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Quest for the Crystal Mickey adventure come out today on DVD just in time for Summer Break.
The Quest for the Crystal Mickey is over two hours of family friendly fun that will have your kids learning as they join their friends from the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on their wild adventures. I love that these episodes are really focused on problem solving, pattern making, music, and teaching kids all about friendship!
The DVD also comes with a free Adventure Activity Map and Stickers!
Join Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, and all their pals in the newest Clubhouse crusade. When the legendary Crystal Mickey goes missing, Mickey and friends go on an adventure to save the Clubhouse from losing its magic. Grab your hat, buckle your seatbelt, and get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure in Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Quest for the Crystal Mickey!
There’s no time to lose after greedy Plunderin’ Pete snatches the legendary Crystal Mickey statue from the Clubhouse. Without this sparkly statue’s magic, the Clubhouse will disappear forever! Can the world’s most extraordinary hero “Kansas City Mickey,” get the magical statue back in time? Only with help from young viewers at home…and the right Mouseketools can Mickey journey across the Sandy Desert, brave the Rushing River and make his way through the Hidden Jungle. But watch out for Pete’s trickiest traps!
The five episodes included on The Quest for the Crystal Mickey are:
1 – Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Quest for the Crystal Mickey
2 – Donald of the Desert
3 – Donald the Genie
4 – Goofy’s Coconutty Monkey
5 – Goofy’s Giant Adventure
The suggested retail price is $19.99, and it is worth every penny!
If you have a fan of the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse in your family, they will love The Quest for the Crystal Mickey!
I am ALWAYS on the look out for bargains at Walt Disney World, and Marketplace Fun Finds at the Walt Disney World Downtown Disney Marketplace is a great place to find inexpensive souvenirs and special deals in one store!
Marketplace Fun Finds is located between Disney’s Pin Traders & Little MissMatched and isn’t a new store, but it is one that often get overlooked when people talk or visit the Downtown Disney Marketplace!
Whenever I need a little something, this is always the first place that I check since nothing in the store is over $25.00 which mean less temptation!
There are two really unique things at Marketplace Fun Finds that you won’t find anywhere else.
The first is a grab bag for $11.99 that could have absolutely ANYTHING that you find in the store in a cute little red bag. I am always tempted to pick one of these bad boys up, but I haven’t yet! I need to stop being a chicken!
And then there is my go-to shopping spot for stocking stuffers…the 5 for $20 wall of goodies! On this wall you will find anything! In the past I have found Vinylmations (perfect for trading), purses, Christmas Ornaments, Flip Flops, Hats, and phone cases! On this trip I even found some items from Disney California Adventure’s Carsland.
It is important to know that no discounts apply to the 5 for $20 wall of fun!
What I love is that on this trip I bought over $114 worth of merchandise for $20!
Have you ever been in Marketplace Fun Finds? What did you think?
It’s that time of year again, where fans from all over the galaxy flock to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a chance to celebrate the franchise that they love so much with fellow fans at Star Wars Weekends, held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday May 17 – June 9, 2013.
During Star Wars Weekends, Hollywood Studios is full of really unique and special ways to meet some of the stars of the series, have your picture taken with some of your favorite characters, learn more behind-the-scenes details, and have a lot of fun.
Here are some things to keep in Mind if you are going to attend Star Wars Weekends!
Star Wars Weekends – Autographs
Every week you can bring in a memento or picture to be signed by an actual Star Wars!
For those wanting to get an autograph, a FASTPASS Ticket Required!
A FASTPASS ticket ensures your place in line at the celebrity autograph kiosk outside the Front Gate entrance. Grab a FASTPASS ticket before the park opens, as quantities are extremely limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Once FASTPASS tickets have been distributed, stand-by tickets may be issued, although stand-by tickets do not guarantee an autograph.
Please note that each Guest must be present to receive a FASTPASS ticket. Guests may not get a FASTPASS ticket for other members of their party, nor may Guests save a place in any FASTPASS line for other party members.
Here is a list of who will be appearing each weekend:
Weekend 1: May 17 to May 19, 2013
Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace)
Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett – Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Dee Bradley Baker (voice of Captain Rex – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
Weekend 2: May 24 to May 26, 2013
Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace)
Warwick Davis (Wicket the Ewok – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Jim Cummings (voice of Hondo Ohnaka – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
Weekend 3: May 31 to June 2, 2013
Warwick Davis (Wicket the Ewok – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Tim Rose (Admiral Ackbar – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Sam Witwer (voice of Darth Maul – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
Weekend 4: June 7 to June 9, 2013
Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian – Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca – Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Tom Kane (voice of Yoda – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
Star Wars Weekends – Meeting Characters
You care sure to find your favorite characters from the Star Wars films and Star Wars: The Clone Wars throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
These character interactions are always tons of fun! But, the lines are often VERY long and specific characters aren’t always out and about.
Also, keep in mind that these character meet and greets can be canceled at any time…so happy character hunting!
Wordless Wednesday takes to a Galaxy far, far away…or Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Star Wars Weekends which start this Friday!
Star Wars characters you may encounter include:
Mickey Avenue
Darth Vader
Darth Maul
Boba Fett
Jango Fett
Zam Wesell
Aurra Sing
Stormtroopers
Tusken Raiders
Gamorrean Guard
Streets of America
Anakin Skywalker
Commander Cody
Captain Rex
Ahsoka Tano
Asajj Ventress
Shaak Ti
Kit Fisto
Jawas
Clone Troopers
Star Tours Area
Queen Amidala
Chewbacca
Ewoks
Cantina Band
Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster Area
Leia
Luke
C-3PO
R2-D2
Hollywood Boulevard
Jedi Mickey
Leia Minnie
Stormtrooper Donald
Vader Goofy
Star Wars Weekends – Shows You Won’t Want To Miss
There are SO many ways to catch your favorite characters and actors during Star Wars Weekends! Laugh along with humorous interviews, parades and motorcades, and immerse yourself in interactive experiences!
Zoe getting ready to watch Stars of the Saga last year
Stormtroopers at the Gate – Hollywood and Vine Intersection
Boba Fett Patrol
Stormtrooper Patrol
Legends of the Force: Star Wars Celebrity Motorcade
Marvel at a grand motorcade featuring a galaxy of your favorite Star Wars characters and 5 Star Wars Celebrities. The motorcade begins at the front of the park and travels to the Star Wars Weekends Event Stage, concluding with a grand celebrity welcome.
Star Wars Celebrity Welcome
Immediately following the Celebrity Motorcade, Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor, the voice of Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, along with 4 visiting celebrities highlight the day’s events and give you an exclusive Star Wars Weekends photo opportunity.
Padawan Mind Challenge
Join a pair of wacky intergalactic hosts, and a few other Star Wars surprises, as they provide 2 fun and interactive Star Wars trivia challenges, featuring younglings ages 4 to 11. Watch as they wield their mental force alongside a popular Star Wars character.
Behind the Force: Star Wars Voices
Listen closely as host Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano from Star Wars: The Clone Wars, along with 2 very special Clone Wars co-stars reveal the fascinating art of voice acting utilized throughout the Star Wars saga and beyond.
Stars of the Saga
Kick back with Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor as he puts on this entertaining and often surprising 30-minute, Star Wars-themed talk show. Experience the fascinating life and movie-making adventures of 2 Star Wars celebrities.
Stormtrooper Pre-Show
15 minutes prior to the Stars of the Saga Star Wars Celebrity Talk Show, a unique and immersive pre-show descends upon the Premiere Theater featuring 4 Imperial Stormtroopers on a special assignment. This interactive and always surprising presentation takes place in the audience and builds to an explosive conclusion.
Obi-Wan and Beyond starring James Arnold Taylor
Feel the force flowing as Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor takes his audience on a fun and fascinating journey into the world of voice acting. In this Star Wars Weekends exclusive, James performs over 200 popular and iconic characters.
Visit to the Maul starring Ray Park
Learn film and martial arts techniques from the actor who brought Darth Maul to life—the man, the Sith, the legend, Ray Park. In this unique presentation, the martial arts master performs impressive demonstrations as he reveals his journey to action-star fame. Show takes place during weekends 1 and 2 only.
An Ewok’s Tale – My Short Story starring Warwick Davis
Step into the fascinating world of entertainment giant, Warwick Davis. In this hilarious presentation, Warwick doesn’t just tell us about his time in the galaxy far, far away or his smorgasbord of roles leading up to the present—he reenacts his entire life! Show takes place during weekends 2 and 3 only.
Hyperspace Hoopla (My absolute favorite)
Star Wars Weekends shifts into hyperdrive hilarity as characters celebrate the day’s final entertainment: Snig & Oopla’s Hyperspace Hoopla! This over-the-top, end of the day celebration features the most beloved Star Wars characters performing in a number of fun and exciting musical numbers.
Don’t forget to wear for your favorite Star Wars shirt!!!
Remember that Disney’s Hollywood Studios admission is required for Star Wars Weekends. Availability is limited for some events, which may be cancelled at any time. Check the weekend event map for up-to-the-minute information about entertainment and appearances.
Over the duration of Star Wars Weekends, We’ll be posting about the Star Wars Weeekends merchandise, events, and more, so be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest!
During the Mosterous Summer Preview, we got a peek at the new Dooney & Bourke purses coming this month.
And today it was announced that they will be having a special Disney Dooney & Bourke special event for the release of the Rainbow Letter purses with a signing opportunity with Ian Ray on Saturday, May 25, 2013 at Downtown Disney Marketplace’s TrenD.
Here’s a closer look at the new Dooney & Bourke Mickey Rainbow Letter Collection on four black silhouettes, including a large Pocket Tote ($295), Satchel ($195), Pocket Satchel ($260), and Tablet Sleeve ($90), which will be available as part of the release.
But how does the event on May 25th get better???
TrenD will be hosting a ‘Sample Sale’ of some of the never released Disney Dooney & Bourke bags from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm.
But wait…there’s more!!!
The lucky guys and gals attending the Sample Sale and Signing will ALSO receive a special gift with purchase!
GET TO TREND EARLY IF YOU WANT A SAMPLE BAG!
I seriously can’t say this enough!!! I was lucky enough to get one last time, and I got there hours before the sale was to begin!
Although Ian isn’t signing until later, the collection, along with the other bags, will be available at shop opening on the day of release.
If you like the collection, but wish it came with a white background, you’re in luck. For a limited time, beginning June 3, http://www.DisneyParks.com/Store will offer a Rainbow Collection Letter Carrier with a white background. But of course, it’s only available while supplies last. So don’t miss out.
Available ONLY online!!!
I will be there and I hope to see you there, too!!!
Master Chef Kevin Dundon of Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant has created a tantalizing menu incorporating fresh seasonal flavors for a special Summer Solstice Signature Dinner which takes place on the 20th of June. Enjoy a sumptuous five course menu paired with the finest wines that have been expertly chosen to complement and enhance the delicious flavors of each dish. Chef Kevin adds his unique style and flair to the menu combining his passion for freshness and simplicity.
The Summer Solstice marks the official start of the summer in the Northern Hemisphere and has long been associated with ancient summer customs and traditions. It is often the time of the first harvest and when plants and herbs planted during the spring equinox were collected hence a celebration of nature’s bounty. In ancient times the Summer Solstice was hugely significant; it was a time when the power of the Sun was at its highest and crops & fields were blessed to ensure a good harvest.
Celebrations take place across many parts of Europe dating back thousands of years. Most involve festivals, maypole dances, lighting of bonfires, feasting and celebrations. The Summer Solstice is such a joyous and magical occasion celebrated for centuries. We hope you can join us for a truly memorable dining experience. For more information, please visit http://www.raglanroad.com/summer-solstice-signature-dinner.
Menu Offerings:
Appetizer
Platter of Chicken Filet Terrine & Duck Liver Pate with Summer Chutney, Assorted Crostini and Pickled Vegetables Rosenblum Rockpile Vineyard Zinfandel 2009
Soup
Duet of Potato Soup with a Champagne Splashed Oyster Steffina di Notte & Guinness Black Velvet
Fish Course
Crispy Dungarvan Pale Ale Battered Atlantic Monkfish with Sea Salted Golden Chips Dungarvan Pale Ale
Main Course
Sage Butter Roasted Poussin with Lemon Scented Potato Puree, Braised Cabbage and Natural Jus Chorey-Les-Beaune, Domaine Tollot-Beaut, 2010
Sip, Savor, Repeat! Fresh Global Tastes Tempt the Palate
at 18th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 27-Nov. 11
Guests can sample wine, cheese and ethnic tastes from regions around the world Sept. 27 – Nov. 11, 2013 during the 18th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.
Scotland Marketplace Debuts, Brazil Flavors Return for Encore
Disney guests can sip and savor fresh flavors from six continents during the 18th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 27-Nov. 11, 2013 at Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney chefs will debut the authentic tastes of Scotland at the celebrated 46-day festival known for innovative food, wine, beer, cocktails, music and entertainment. The sizzling aromas of more than 25 ethnic and specialized marketplaces including Africa, Brazil and Florida Local will tempt guests strolling the World Showcase Promenade. Celebrity chefs like Warren Brown and Jamie Deen will bring culinary cachet to special festival events and demonstrations.
Festival planners will present a delectable menu of premium programming, plus daily wine tastings and mixology seminars. Nightly Eat to the Beat concerts will keep the party rockin’, and five bands will make their festival debut this year. In Future World, the iconic Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog will return for a third year to introduce families to the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage.
Fresh for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in 2013:
New marketplace debuts; favorites return -Traditional flavors with a twist will pair with beers, meads and Scotch at the new Scotland Marketplace designed by Walt Disney Imagineering. Scottish officials were so impressed with the hit Disney film, “Brave,” that they contacted festival planners about participating in this year’s festival. The Brazil Marketplace returns by popular demand with an exciting new menu following a one-year hiatus. Hawai’i is back with its flavorful Kalua Pork Slider, and Terra, which debuted last year, returns with vegan favorite Trick’n Chicken Curry.
Fan favorites rock the house at Eat to the Beat! Concerts – “We Got the Beat” with the Go-Go’s (Sept. 30-Oct. 1) and four other musical acts are set to make first appearances at Eat to the Beat nightly concerts. Also new to the festival stage: Edwin McCain (Oct. 10-11), The Manhattan Transfer (Oct. 12-13), Spin Doctors (Oct. 31-Nov. 1), and Christopher Cross (Nov. 2-3) Nineteen bands are slated, with STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas kicking off the concert series Sept. 27-29. Returning fan favorites include The Pointer Sisters, Smash Mouth, Boyz II Men, Sister Hazel, Air Supply, Hanson and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.
Celebrity chefs cook and dish – Renowned chefs like Warren Brown, Paula DaSilva, Gale Gand, Jamie Deen, Robert Irvine, Dean Max, Rock Harper, Jeff Henderson, Art Smith, Buddy Valastro, Allen Susser, “Cake Boy” Eric Lanlard, Duskie Estes and John Stewart, Donald Link, Bryan Voltaggio and Emily Ellyn share their talents during culinary demos and premium events.
Festival Welcome Center buzzes with activities – Guests can make the most of complimentary Authentic Taste seminars. Culinary demonstrations and wine seminars feature new tastes and sips for a nominal fee.
Reserved culinary events draw foodies — Special culinary programs showcase a lineup of renowned winemakers, guest chefs and speakers like Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson as they participate in elegant dinners, luncheons, seminars and wine schools.
Other festival highlights include:
More than 270 chefs including Disney chefs and culinary stars from across the country
A complimentary Marketplace Discovery Passport to be stamped at each international marketplace visited for the perfect scrapbook souvenir.
Party for the Senses grand tasting events Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26, and Nov. 2 featuring tempting bites from eminent chefs, more than 50 wines and beers and live entertainment.
Premium events including“3D” Disney’s Dessert Discovery on select Fridays, Cheese Seminars on Saturdays and Sweet Sundays on Sundays.
What’s Included with Epcot Admission:
Authentic Taste seminars, Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog, special book signings, Eat to the Beat! concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.
Special Programming by Reservation:
The Party for the Senses grand tasting events and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission. Guests will be able to call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) to make reservations after an August date is announced. Information and reservations for select events and programs will be at www.epcotfoodfestival.com.
Last week I was able to visit Sea World to experience some new attractions and special events for me. Viva La Musica is a Latin music festival that takes place in the spring at both Sea World and Busch Gardens. Last year I went to Busch Gardens and got to try some great food, but missed out on the concerts. I made a point when this year’s schedule came out to make sure that I caught at least one concert between the two parks. I was beyond ecstatic when I discovered my favorite salsa band, El Gran Combo, was going to be playing at Sea World and Busch Gardens for Viva La Musica this year!
I scheduled my entire weekend around attending the El Gran Combo concert at Sea World on May 4th. The weather wasn’t exactly gorgeous when I arrived at the park, so I decided to see if I could do a few rides before grabbing lunch and waiting for the concert to start at 3pm. I really hadn’t done any of the rides at Sea World before and had mostly focused on the animals and shows on my previous visits over the past year and a half. It was far past time, so I made a beeline for Manta hoping the dreary and drizzly weather was scaring off the tourists. To my luck I was able to walk on to Manta, Kraken and Journey to Atlantis all in less than an hour. I had never been in the aquarium at the exit of Journey to Atlantis and loved it!
JellyfishMoray eelFishTropical fish
Like most special events at Sea World, Viva La Musica is focused around the Bayside Pathway between the entrance and Bayside Stadium, where the concerts are. Vendors setup booths with Latin American and Hispanic artwork and merchandise. Then there is my favorite part: the food and drinks! I love the variety of options for food that are different than the normal park food. I opted for a fantastic grilled skirt steak with chimichurri sauce and sweet plaintains along with a tamarind flavored shaved ice treat for dessert. The food was great and I loved sitting and listening to the warmup salsa band on the secondary stage and watching all the guests getting out on the dancefloor. You even had the opportunity to get your picture taken with Shamu and his friends in their Salsa outfits!
Skirt steak with chimichurri and sweet plantainsShamuMeSalsa dancersGrandma dancingMiami Dolphin CheerleadersEl Gran Combo
Since I know from experience the concerts at Sea World special events like Viva La Musica fill up early, I went directly to Bayside Stadium to get a seat as soon as I finished lunch. I got there about an hour and a half early, which is way earlier than I would usually, but when I noticed the steady flow of guests heading that way, I was glad I did. I have never seen the stadium as full as this for any events before. It was amazing! El Gran Combo took the stage after a warm up act by the Miami Dolphin Cheerleaders. The concert was one of the best I’ve been to in a theme park and it was fantastic performance by my favorite salsa band. I’ve never seen as many guests up and dancing in the aisles at any of the dozens of concerts I’ve been to in my life.
Bayside Stadium panoramaDolphin CheerleadersEl Gran Combo at Viva La MusicaFountains salsa dancing to the musicCouples dancing
On the way out of the park I had to swing by the Dolphin Nursery, which is one of my absolute must dos each trip to Sea World. I had a great afternoon experiencing Viva La Musica. This special event is over for the season, but when next spring rolls around, make sure you don’t miss Viva La Musica, which takes place at Sea World and Busch Gardens! Have you been to Viva La Musica before? Which bands have you seen?
— Custom Technology Engages Guests on a Personal Level —
This penguin-shaped cup may look cute and cuddly, but it has a noble purpose: encourage guests to help the planet, one refill at a time.
In conjunction with SeaWorld®Orlando’s epic new attraction and ride Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™ opening Memorial Day weekend, SeaWorld has created the Cup That Cares— a new reusable cup program with a twist of technology. The innovative, interactive cup was designed specifically to connect with Coca-Cola Freestyle beverage dispensers in the new realm.
The new Cup That Cares engages guests in a personalized manner to reuse materials and reduce their carbon footprint. An RFID chip embedded in each Cup That Cares interacts with software at Coca-Cola Freestyle® dispensers to calculate and tell guests how they are being more environmentally responsible by choosing to reuse.
Plus, SeaWorld will donate $1 from each Cup That Cares purchase to the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens® Conservation Fund, a not-for-profit foundation that helps protect wildlife around the world.
How Does It Work?
Technology embedded in the Cup That Cares calculates the amount of CO2 each guest saves from entering the atmosphere when they choose to reuse the cup for refills at Coca-Cola Freestyle machines in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin. With each refill at the designated machines, exclusive software developed by Coca-Cola and SeaWorld serves up an onscreen message that is customized to that guest’s Cup That Cares history. The message thanks the guest for choosing to reuse, tracks how many refills the Cup That Cares has been used for, and calculates the running total of CO2 the guest has saved from entering the atmosphere.
Each refill with a reusable cup prevents the emission of approximately 27 grams of CO2.
Birds Of A Feather Conserve Together!
These penguin cups may look cute and cuddly but they have a noble purpose: encourage guests to reuse materials and reduce their carbon footprint. With each purchase of its new Cup That Cares, SeaWorld will donate $1 to the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund that helps animals around the world.
What Does It Look Like?
There are two options, both available exclusively in the new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin attraction at SeaWorld Orlando:
Cup That Cares souvenir reusable cup – available at the two beverage stations inside the attraction for $9.99 – is adorned with photos of Puck™ and his penguin family. Puck is the hero penguin character featured throughout the new realm,
Create Cup That Cares – Guests may build their own personalized penguin-shaped character cup by choosing from more than 40 accessories such as eyes, hair, glasses, hats, bow tie, necklaces and even miniature Shamu ice cream bars and SeaWorld shopping bags. The Create A Cup That Cares will be sold in the Antarcticagift shop, and includes a free first fill at the nearby Antarctica beverage stations. Create A Cup That Cares experience starts at $15.95 with the option to add accessory items.
“Just as penguins do within their colonies, humans also can band together to make a big difference through small actions,” said Dan Brown, Chief Operating Officerof SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Aquatica Parks. “We see great potential with this new program because it encourages guests to be more aware of their actions – and reduce their carbon footprint — in an easy, fun and innovative way. Each step may be small, but it all adds up when we work together.”
Refills throughout the park for both Cup That Cares options are $.99 each.
PLUS — NEW custom Coca-Cola flavor served up only at Antarctica
The Cup That Cares concept was developed in partnership with the park’s beverage partner Coca-Cola, whose Coca-Cola Freestyle dispensers offer guests more than 100 different beverage brands. Also only in Antarctica, Coca-Cola Freestyle will offer an all-new, vanilla-infused choice — South Pole Chill™.
Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin:
The biggest expansion in SeaWorld’s history, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin opens Friday, May 24 and combines a state-of-the-art family adventure ride with up-close encounters with hundreds of penguins – kings, gentoos, Adélies and rockhoppers.
Animal Tribes Invade LEGOLAND! World Of Chima Opening Date Announced!
An army of animal tribes from LEGOLANDFlorida’s newest expansion featuring interactive family fun, The World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network, invaded Central Florida with an important announcement. The dozens of three-foot LEGO® models of characters from the new product line, LEGO® Legends of Chima, descended upon downtown Orlando and downtown Tampa, bearing tags announcing that the park’s The World of Chima attraction will open to the public on July 3.
Laval the Lion, Eris the Eagle and members of other Chima animal tribes are searching for the missing CHI, a powerful energy source needed to power LEGOLAND Florida’s newest attraction that was stolen by Cragger, the leader of the Crocodile tribe.
Soon fans can join The Quest for CHI to help Laval and his friends find the CHI needed to power The World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network by joining an interactive Facebook contest beginning May 27. One grand prize winner will be selected to be a VIP for the Opening Ceremony on July 3.
This expansion will be one of the centerpieces of the new LEGO Chima brand, which already includes a major LEGO product line, a stunningly animated television series to air on Cartoon Network beginning in July and multiple interactive video games and apps. LEGOLAND Florida is the only place in the world that LEGO fans can go to unleash the power and be fully immersed in The World of Chima, providing an experience like no other.
The centerpiece of the new World of Chima at LEGOLAND Florida is an interactive, family-friendly water ride, The Quest for CHI. Guests will enter The World of Chima through a fantastical stone and moss covered entrance which leads to the Lion Temple at the base of the majestic 45-foot tall floating Mount Cavora. There, guests will explore a diverse landscape setting and join the Lion Tribe in an epic battle to recover the stolen CHI orbs. Guests will board a watercraft which will take them on an interactive experience using water cannons to help their hero, Laval the Lion Prince, defeat Cragger the Crocodile King as he attempts to steal the precious supply of CHI. The journey will take them through the land of Chima where they will meet some of the highly advanced animal tribal habitats, including the Rhino Quarry, Raven’s Roost, Eagle’s Nest, Wolves Encampment, Gorilla Forest and Crocodile Swamp among other imaginative settings.
The World of Chima also features a super-charged, super-fast SpeedorzTM Arena where multiple players build their LEGO Speedorz and compete to win the precious supply of CHI by participating in-group challenges and competing in a series of obstacles. Families can also enter Cragger’s Swamp, the Croc Tribe’s secret hideout, where they will find a lush green foggy swamp filled with playful bubbles, intermittent water spouts and interactive elements that trigger swamp water effects. A new 4D movie, the LEGO Chima 4D Movie Xperience, will further immerse families into The World of Chima by bringing the characters to life on the big screen. Kids will also get to meet their hero Laval the Lion Prince and Cragger the Crocodile King at daily character meet and greet sessions. Plus, with the largest supply of LEGO products in Central Florida, guests can find their favorite LEGO Legends of Chima sets and Speedorz.
For more information regarding The World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network and the more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, visit www.LEGOLAND.com. The best way to experience LEGOLAND Florida is with a Florida Resident Annual Pass for just $99 plus tax. Pass members will receive unlimited admission for 12 months to LEGOLAND Florida and the LEGOLAND Water Park along with other Merlin U.S. attractions including LEGOLAND California Resort & Water Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, Sea Life Centers and Madame Tussauds with no blackout dates. The LEGOLAND Florida Resident Annual Pass also includes admission into special events throughout the year including Red, Brick & Boom, Brick-or-Treat, Christmas Bricktacular and Kid’s New Year’s Eve. Additionally, pass members will enjoy free parking and discounts on all food and merchandise throughout the year.
Wordless Wednesday takes to a Galaxy far, far away…or Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Star Wars Weekends which start this Friday!
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Recently, Disney released a new free app called Story for Apple iOS devices running 5.1 or later. According to the developer notes in the App Store, the Disney Story app is optimized for iPhone 5. Although I have an iPhone 4S, I had no evident issues although the app was not designed for my particular model of phone.
The basic premise behind the app is that the pictures and videos you take tell the stories of your life. You are able to view shared stories on a unique website that is created for each Disney Story created in the app. If you choose to share just keep in mind that those who can see your Facebook or are invited to the email will be able to see the story, so please don’t publish private information like addresses or phone numbers. The information provided by Disney from the App Store indicates that the unique Disney Story websites will not be able to be searched for or found without the unique web address. Any pictures or videos uploaded, but not shared are deleted from the app’s server after seven days.
I found the app to be very user friendly and intuitive for anyone familiar with an Apple device. The Disney Story app accesses your camera roll to organize pictures and videos by date and location. This makes it very easy to see stories of your life appear before you to share with others.
Disney Story in App StoreTech Spec RequirementsGetting StartedBasic InstructionsStory StartedRenamed TitleMickey ThemeStraightforward MenusTheme OptionsUploading to EmailWays to Share and Follow Disney StorySelecting Moments to Start a Story
Once you have downloaded and installed the app, make sure you login to or create a Disney account. This is necessary in order to share your stories. When you have selected what kind of story you want to tell by date and location by choosing pictures to start from in My Moments, you can start creating your Story. The Story is limited to 20 pictures, but allows you some creative latitude in layout and editing the pictures to zoom in and out. It is very easy to add pictures from your camera roll, delete unwanted pictures, rearrange the order of pictures and even take new pictures and video straight from the app. After just a few minutes of playing with Disney Story, I created a story of my own. You can see it here.
Here is a video from the Apple App Store showing the sizzle reel for Disney Story: httpv://youtu.be/FemQuheA4mw
I think this is a fantastic app that will allow people to very easily create and share stories with friends and families while on the go. You don’t have to wait to get back from vacation to share that story about the first time the kids met their favorite characters in the Magic Kingdom. You caught it all on video and in pictures and can email it off to grandma and grandpa while you are right there still in the park. It will be a great way of sharing the magical moments your family and friends experience on a small scale with those who aren’t there or even with all of your Facebook friends. I love the Disney Story app and look forward to using it more to share stories with friends and family that aren’t able to join me on my adventures. Creating these little vignettes is a quick and easy way to share your stories one moment at a time instead of in a large album of your entire vacation. I hope you all will take the time to download this new app and I look forward to seeing your stories!
Do you have the Disney Story app? What do you think? Have you used it yet to share your stories? Tell us about it!
Possessing one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music, singer, songwriter and actor Josh Groban has entertained fans across the globe with his multi-platinum albums and DVDs (25 million sold worldwide), electrifying live performances and comedic film and television appearances. Today, Groban announced the next stage in his live career is with the Josh Groban In the Round Tour, which begins October 2 and continues through mid-November. Groban performs his In The Round tour at the Amway Center in Orlando on Saturday, November 9. Tickets went on sale Friday, May 10 at 10 a.m.
httpv://youtu.be/9EAn2hOStpA
The Josh Groban In the Round Tour will give fans a one-of-a-kind concert experience. Placed in the middle of the floor, this 360 stage will allow Groban to interact with fans from all sides of the venue and hear him sing classic songs that span his illustrious 12 year career. The In the Round tour builds on the concept of Groban’s 2011 Straight To You world tour, bringing the intimate feel of a theater experience to an arena setting.
Says Groban, “It has been a vision of mine to do a tour in the round for a while now, it was just a matter of when was the right time. I have always had moments during the show where I walked through the crowd and interacted with the fans. I felt that now was the time to bring it all together. I can’t wait to bring music from throughout my career, great fun and new experiences to my fans.”
Groban will be joined by an ensemble of world-class musicians – featuring Andre Manga on bass, Ruslan Sirota on keys, Pete Korpela on percussion, music director Tariqh Akoni on guitar , Dave DiCenso on drums, Christian Habel on violin and Daniel Rosenboom on trumpet. In addition, a local orchestra and choir will be added in each city.
Groban recently completed a wildly successful tour in Australia and New Zealand where he drew rave reviews.
“One of the greatest voices in contemporary music”
Noise 11
“His gorgeous voice hit like a tsunami, and embraced like expensive silk. Groban was simply amazing!”
Australian Stage
“With his distinctive baritone sound, there is no doubt Groban has one of the best voices in modern music, but hearing him sing live is a unique experience to be cherished.”
Australia Associated Press
“Scintillating, charming and talented. Those three words resonated around my head as Josh Groban performed a near perfect concert in Auckland”
Libel New Zealand
“It was two hours of great music and comic genius and a night I would recommend to both fans and non- fans alike.”
Yahoo New Zealand
Prior to the North American tour, Josh will tour throughout Europe before heading back to the U.S. in July and August for select outdoor orchestra dates. For more information, please visit www.joshgroban.com.
TICKETS: $47.50, $67.50 & $97.50.Buy tickets at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com.All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.
ABOUT AMWAY CENTER
The Orlando Magic served as the developer of the Amway Center, which hosts major national events, concerts and family shows. Opened in the fall of 2010, the facility is owned and operated by the City of Orlando on behalf of the Central Florida community. The Amway Center was designed to reflect the character of the community, meet the goals of the users and build on the legacy of sports and entertainment in Orlando. The building’s exterior features a modern blend of glass and metal materials, along with ever-changing graphics via a monumental wall along one facade. A 180-foot tall tower serves as a beacon amid the downtown skyline. At 875,000 square feet, the new arena is almost triple the size of the old Amway Arena (367,000 square feet). The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and unmatched technology, featuring 1,100 digital monitors, the tallest high-definition video board in an NBA venue and multiple premium amenities available to all patrons in the building. Awarded 2012 Sports Facility of the Year by SportsBusiness Journal. For more information about the Amway Center, visit www.amwaycenter.com.
Celebration Town Center ushers in A Sci Fi 4th of July
Celebration Town Center’s World Famous 4th of July event joins forces with MegaCon to bring the first ever A Sci Fi 4th of July to Central Florida.
Celebration Town Center’s A Sci Fi 4th of July will feature a movie themed costume contest at 7:30 PM, so come dressed as your favorite character for a chance to win big prizes. It will also feature a synchronized fireworks spectacular set to a Sci-Fi themed soundtrack, bounce houses for kids, live music by Oliver’s Queen, Jordyn Kane, DJ Tami, Gina Marie Incandela and an unforgettable tribute to our Veterans. So, get ready to dance the night away in a one of a kind, family-friendly event with a fireworks show you will be talking about for years.
There will be something for people of all ages as Town Center’s KidZone will feature an assortment of inflatable games for kids and teens that will include a jousting area, bounce houses, face painting and more.
Additional music will be offered by The Dixieland Jazz Band. This unique group, made up of former members of the “Rosie O’Grady’s Good Time Band” will offer patriotic music for the whole family to enjoy.
Sponsored in part by MegaCon, Melia Suites Hotel, The Celebration Town Tavern, Celebration Sanitation, Axis Magazine, The Orlando Sentinel and Sam Adams, this event will be “the can’t miss place to be” this July 4th.
As always, Parking and Admission are FREE!!!!
Free Park and Ride Shuttle will be available from 215 Celebration Place.
Come early, stay late, and have fun at this year’s “A Sci-Fi 4th of July”.
A Sci Fi 4th of July – Thursday July 4th, 2013 – Schedule of Events
5:00 PM Free Park and Ride Shuttle Service Begins
5:30 PM Event Opens
5:30 PM DJ Tami begins
6:00 PM Jordyn Kane performs
6:30 PM-7:30 PM Oliver’s Queen performs
7:30 PM Costume Contest (come dressed as your favorite Sci-Fi or Super Hero character)
7:50-9:00 Oliver’s Queenperforms
9:00-9:25 A Special Salute to Veterans featuring The Seeds
