December 2014 - Page 2 of 3 - On the Go in MCO

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex SpaceX Launch Viewing

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Guests Can Enjoy Best Public Viewing of SpaceX

Rocket Launch on December 19, 2015

Exclusive Viewing Package Offers a Front Row Seat for the Launch

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is offering an exclusive “front row seat” to view the Dec. 19 SpaceX Falcon 9 launch, which is scheduled for 1:20 p.m. ET. Launch viewing is available at the LC-39 Observation Gantry, located within the secured areas of Kennedy Space Center and just over three miles away from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, where the Falcon 9 will launch from Space Launch Complex 40.

Launch viewing from the LC-39 Observation Gantry offers a premium, up-close view of the rocket on the launch pad and during lift off, and features lawn and bleacher seating, live mission commentary and the opportunity to meet space shuttle astronaut Mike McCulley. The launch viewing package includes launch transportation, a light lunch and a space-themed T-shirt.

Bus boarding from the Visitor Complex to the LC-39 Observation Gantry begins at 11 a.m. A limited number of launch viewing tickets are available and may be purchased for $49 plus tax, in addition to admission, by calling 855-475-8415. Daily admission to the Visitor Complex is $50 plus tax for adults and $40 plus tax for children ages 3-11.

The SpaceX Falcon 9 will carry the Dragon capsule to deliver cargo to the International Space Station (ISS). This is the fifth resupply mission bySpaceX for NASA, bringing food and supplies, including new science experiments and technology research, to the crew aboard the ISS.

The payload includes the Cloud-Aerosol Transport System, or CATS, a laser instrument designed to measure clouds and the location and distribution of pollution, dust, smoke and other particles in the atmosphere. The unique orbit of CATS allows it to observe the same area of Earth several times a day. By providing real time data, CATS improves detection of wildfires and forecasts of air quality and volcanic plumes.

Launch viewing also will be available from the lawn of Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM located in the main Visitor Complex.

On launch day, the Visitor Complex be open until 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering a full-day space experience, with such attractions and activities as:

The annual Holidays in Space celebration, featuring an all new Holiday Rocket Garden Light Show. The new light show takes place daily throughJan. 4 in the ever-popular Rocket Garden, a Visitor Complex hallmark. The outdoor garden features a majestic collection of real and replica capsules and rockets, soaring 80, 90, and 100 feet into the sky, demonstrating how manned space flight progressed through the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo eras. The Visitor Complex also is adorned for the holiday season with a stunning array of decorations including a 41-foot Christmas tree, a giant NASA “meatball” ornament, garlands, lights, ribbons, bows and more.

Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM, where visitors can “be the astronaut” as they get nose to nose with a real spaceflown orbiter. Space Shuttle Atlantis is displayed as if floating in space – the only space shuttle orbiter in the world exhibited this way. Guests can also flex their astronaut abilities as they train on various simulators: take a simulated spacewalk, land the space shuttle on the shuttle landing facility, operate the robotic Canadarm or dock with the International Space Station.

The Apollo/Saturn V Center, where dramatic multi-media shows and numerous hands-on displays provide visitors with an inspirational and exhilarating look into America’s quest for the moon. Guests relive the historic launch of Apollo 8 at the Firing Room Theater, then marvel at a monstrous 363-foot long Saturn V moon rocket, the most powerful rocket ever built and one of only three Saturn V rockets in existence. The Apollo Treasures Gallery showcases treasures from the Apollo moon missions, including Apollo 14 Commander Alan Shepard’s spacesuit and the Apollo 14 Command Module, Kitty Hawk.

Admission tickets may be purchased at www.KennedySpaceCenter.com or by calling 877-313-2610.

Launch date, time and viewing locations are subject to change.

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, the new Angry Birds^™Space Encounter, Shuttle Launch Experience, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noon and closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

Sharing The Holiday Spirit With Christmas In The Shire

If you are looking for a new family holiday tradition, you may want to consider checking out Christmas in the Shire!

Christmas in the Shire is the largest, private holiday display in Orlando! It has also been voted one of the top displays by local event guides.

httpv://youtu.be/2FgFtUsgdIA

The display is open daily until December 27th and includes tens of thousands of lights, over 40 trees outside, and almost 50 themed trees inside that you can view during their Open House times.

This year there are two new trees featuring a Wizard of Oz themed rainbow tree and a News Years Eve theme.

If you have been before or if you are new to the display, like myself, it is important to also know that Christmas in the Shire has moved to a new address in the Grand Cove neighborhood of Falcon Trace.

For the new address, schedule, and more information about Christmas in the Shire check out their Facebook page!

Disney Vacation Club: Disney’s Polynesian Villas Bungalows!

This morning the Disney Vacation Club released the following information to their members, and we thought that we would share it with you!

Disney Vacation Club: New details announced for Disney’s Polynesian Villas Bungalows!

We hope you are getting as excited as we are about the next Disney Vacation Club Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows! Today, we released new details about the resort, which will open phase one in 2015. We are making history with the debut of the first Disney Bungalows. These beautiful accommodations are directly on Seven Seas Lagoon and will sleep up to eight guests and feature a plunge pool that offers views of fireworks over Magic Kingdom Park.

Adding to the excitement, we are opening the largest Deluxe Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. The 360 Deluxe Studios will sleep up to five guests each and have the ability to connect to another Deluxe Studio, the first time we have done this at a Disney Vacation Club Resort. Similar to Disney Cruise Line ships and The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the rooms will each have a bathroom separated into two areas, one with a shower and sink and the other with a sink and tub/shower. Plus, they also will have kitchenettes and enhanced storage space for convenience and comfort.

The addition of Disney Vacation Club to this beloved resort is part of an overall renovation of the iconic resort hotel. A re-imagined Great Ceremonial House will welcome guests to a tropical destination where Disney magic meets South Seas hospitality. Also included is an enhanced feature pool and new food and beverage offerings, including Pineapple Lanai where Members and guests can get their favorite Dole Whip treats and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, which will feature exotic cocktails and Polynesian-themed small plates. Earlier this year, the resort opened a brand-new children’s activity center called Lilo’s Playhouse.

The first phase of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is scheduled to open in 2015.

Disneynature Monkey Kingdom News

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures is releasing Monkey Kingdom, the sixth in the Disney Nature Series, on April 17, 2015, and we are really excited to bring you a few pictures and clip from the movie!

Life is an adventure for Maya, the clever and resourceful blonde-bobbed monkey in “Monkey Kingdom,” Disneynature’s new feature film set among ancient ruins in the storied jungles of South Asia. Maya’s world is forever changed when she welcomes her son, Kip, into her complicated extended family. Like all families, Maya’s has more than its share of colorful personalities—and she’s determined to give her son a leg up in the world. When their longtime home at Castle Rock is taken over by powerful neighboring monkeys, Maya’s whole family is forced to relocate, and she uses her street smarts and ingenuity to lead them to untapped resources amidst strange new creatures and unsettling surroundings. Ultimately, they will all have to work together to reclaim Castle Rock, where Maya can hopefully realize her dreams for her son’s future.

Featuring a rich variety of characters, including a mischievous mongoose, simple-minded langur monkeys, predatory leopards and monitor lizards, “Monkey Kingdom” is directed by Mark Linfield (“Chimpanzee,” “Earth”) and co-directed by Alastair Fothergill (“Chimpanzee,” “Bears”). With music from award-winning composer Harry Gregson-Williams (“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” “Shrek” movies), Disneynature’s eighth True Life Adventure—the follow-up to 2014’s “Bears”.

httpv://youtu.be/RrSL7_dyV38

It’s important to know that for every ticket sold opening week (April 17-23, 2015), Disneynature will make a donation to Conservation International to help protect monkeys and other endangered species in their natural habitats.

We will be bringing you more info, but until then you can keep up with Disneynature Monkey Kingdom on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Wordless Wednesday: The Rat King And The Nutcracker Prince

Wordless Wednesday: December 10, 2014

Disney Vaction Club Member Magical Holiday Feast

Disney Vacation Club Members can come experience a magical holiday dinner and celebration at Walt Disney World Resort with your family!

Frozen Gingerbread Holiday Display Walt Disney World Contemporary Resort — Walt Disney World Resort guests can enjoy an all-new Gingerbread Holiday Ice Castle inspired by Disney’s “Frozen” this year on the 4th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. TheÊ17-foot-tall culinary concoction is adorned with favorite characters from the film including Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Kristoff and Sven,1,500 gingerbread shingles, snowflakes and chocolate-covered trees. “Frozen”-themed merchandise, desserts and gingerbread treats also are available for purchase at the ice castle kiosk. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Twas the night before Christmas . . . so it’s time for a feast!

Discover the magic of the holidays at Walt Disney World Resort. During this new holiday event, Disney Vacation Club Members can enjoy a holiday feast in the festive Ballroom of the Americas at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Joyous carolers fill the air with songs of the season as you taste an array of delicious holiday favorites at an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet. Enjoy a full cash bar and sip a Chocolate Peppermint Martini, created just for this event. Best of all, your group will be seated at your own private, reserved table, which will be set and waiting for you to arrive.

Magical Disney touches will make this a holiday celebration you’ll always remember! Favorite Disney Characters will join the fun to greet your family and pose for photos. Special holiday surprises are also in store!.

Seating at this Member-exclusive event is limited—please call Member Services now to make your reservations at (800) 800-9800.†

Disney Vaction Club Member Magical Holiday Feast Details

Date: Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Time: Seatings at 4:00 and 5:30 PM Eastern Time
Location: Ballroom of the Americas in Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort
Pricing: $89.95 per adult, $39.95 per child (ages 3 to 9)
Booking: All reservations can be made through Member Services. Please call (800) 800–9800†
Menu:
Fresh Garden Greens, Cucumber and Tomato served with Herb Vinaigrette or Ranch Dressing

Buttered Corn, Steamed Green Beans and Toasted Almonds, Mashed Potatoes with Giblet Gravy
Christmas Dressing with North Florida Pecans and Sausage, Roast Pork Loin with sun-dried Cherries and Maple Syrup Demi Seared and Carved Sirloin of Beef with Madeira Bordelaise , Sustainable Catch featuring Verlasso Salmon with Brown Butter and Cappers, Soft Rolls and Butter and Holiday Dessert Selections

$89.95 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity

Kids Menu

Buttered Corn
Fried Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauces Mickey-Roni and Cheese
Rice Krispy Treats
Chocolate Cookies
$39.95 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity

Guests must be 21 with Photo ID to consume alcohol
Disney Dining Plan Entitlements cannot be used for this experience
Culinary Magic Experiences are not eligible for any additional special offers or discounts, including the DVC Member 10% food and beverage discount
Transportation Time: please allow up to 1.5 hours for travel to your destination.
Party size limit of 16 guests
If you are traveling with another party who has made a separate reservation, please let us know so we can seat you together.
Full Payment is due at time of booking
Price Includes Tax and Gratuity
Credit Card Required at time of booking
Menu Items, Pricing and Hours are subject to change without notice.
Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a paying participating parent or guardian
Member ID Required at Check In
Food Allergies must be noted at time of booking

Special offers are available to Members at various times. Members should visit dvcmember.com or contact Member Services for the most up-to-date information. To receive any of these offers, you must present your Disney Vacation Club Member ID along with corresponding valid photo ID. Disney Vacation Club Member discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts or promotions. Offers valid through December 31, 2014, unless otherwise noted. Some offers are through third-party providers. All offers are subject to availability, change, and/or termination without notice.

Take A Spin At The Richard Petty Driving Experience With Jeremiah

We are really excited to have Jeremiah Good joining us today to share his Richard Petty Driving #DriveRPDEVIP experience with us today!!!

Jeremiah Good writes for www.laughingplace.com as well as does the Walt Disney World side of the Window to the Magic podcast, he has been a life long fan of Disney “and a heck of a paleontologist” recently moving to Florida to be around all things that is the Mouse. He is also single has baby blue eyes and enjoys long walks on the beach….at the Polynesian Village Resort!

Richard Petty Driving Experience Sign — Photo: Jeremiah Good

If you ask any Walt Disney World bus driver what the fastest attraction on property is, odds are high you’ll hear Test Track or some maybe sneaky and tell you the Monorail because it can go faster then they let it…but any answer they give will be wrong unless they tell you about the Richard Petty Driving Experience!

Richard Petty Driving Experience Speedway Sign — Photo: Jeremiah Good

In 1995 a 1 mile tri-oval track was built in the parking lot area for the Magic Kingdom as a venue for the Izod IndyCar Series and is now the exclusive home to Richard Petty Driving Experience year-round. For anyone who doesn’t know the name Richard Petty, it’s time to move out from under that rock! Richard Petty aka The King raced in over 1,100 races over the span of 35 years and has a list of wins and top 10 finishes that would make Lightning McQueen blow a gasket!

Richard Petty Driving Experience Exotic Cars — Photo: Jeremiah Good

The Driving Experience actually offers more than just 1 experience, they offer so many it is just easier to go to www.drivepetty.com and find the one that fits you the best. The main opportunities for ride-alongs are in the NASCAR style cars which are custom built for the Driving Experience each coasting somewhere right around $80,000 dollars each! With the ride-along you are sitting shotgun for a minimum of 3 laps reaching speeds of up to 120mph (see told you the bus driver was wrong) while a trained driver pushes the car you are in to the red line! If NASCAR is not your thing they also offer ride-alongs in exotic supercars such as that dream Lamborghini or Porsche we all wanted as kids!

Richard Petty Driving Experience Junior Ride Along — Photo: Jeremiah Good

Speaking of kids, they have also just added a Junior Ride-Along for little ones ages 6-14 who feel that need for speed! Added just recently The Richard Petty Driving Experience teamed with the folks at Pixar to create some custom Cars named Aikin Axler and Sage VanDerSpin that really give kids the feeling they are right there at the Piston Cup with Lightning racing. There is no need to worry about the precious cargo because these cars only reach a top speed of 100mph and were specially designed to keep the little ones safe!

Richard Petty Driving Experience Ride-along sign — Photo: Jeremiah Good

While this may not seem like the best way to spend a few hours out of your vacation, I can say without a shadow of a doubt someone in your party would jump at the chance to feel what it feels like to be strapped in a car for the fastest ride in Walt Disney World!

Richard Petty Driving Experience Car Close Up — Photo: Jeremiah Good

Prices do vary with experiences to please visit www.drivepetty.com and visit the Orlando track for more information.

Richard Petty Driving Experience Jeremiah on the track — Photo: Jeremiah Good

Universal Orlando Resort Extends Military Offer

Universal Orlando Resort Extends its Theme Park Ticket Offer for Active Duty and Retired Members of the Military

Active Duty and Retired Military Personnel Can Also Upgrade with a Stay at the All-New

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a Discounted Vacation Package

Universal Orlando Resort has extended its ticket offer exclusively for active duty and retired members of the military with purchase available now through June 7, 2015. Military personnel can purchase a one-day, park-to-park ticket and receive two complimentary days to experience the extraordinary thrills and heart-warming moments that can only be found at Universal Orlando Resort. Plus, they can also upgrade with a 3-night stay at the brand-new Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a discounted vacation package.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO MILITARY OFFERS

Buy a 1-Day, Park-to-Park

Ticket and Get 2 Days FREE

Active duty and retired members of the military and their families can receive two

days FREE with the purchase of a 1-day, park-to-park ticket with valid military

identification.

Admission is valid for up to 14 days from first use
Tickets are available for purchase until June 7, 2015 and must be redeemed

by June 20, 2015

Special Military Vacation

Packages Available

OR UPGRADE AND MAKE IT A VACATION PACKAGE:

Active duty and retired military personnel can make it a special vacation by adding a

stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a discounted vacation package

starting at $269 per adult, tax inclusive with valid military identification.

Package also includes:

– The 1-Day, Park-to-Park Ticket with 2 Days Free ticket offer

– 3-nights stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

– Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before

the theme park opens

– Access to live entertainment at Universal CityWalk

Special active duty and retired military package rates are also available at Universal Orlando’s additional resort hotels Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock

Hotel and select Universal Partner Hotels

Vacation package available for purchase through June 1, 2015 and travel

through June 7, 2015

These all-new military offers are available with valid identification on participating bases at ITT or Leisure Travel Service Offices. For additional details on these offers, see below or visit www.universalorlando.com/military.

Members of the military and their families and friends will experience the trip of a lifetime at Universal Orlando’s two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. A world of excitement and adventure awaits with all-new experiences, including the awe-inspiring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, the blockbuster attraction TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D and Springfield, home of America’s favorite animated family “The Simpsons.”

At Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, guests will be transported back to a time of relaxation and endless family fun in this classic, retro-themed resort. Cabana Bay guests can experience incredible amenities throughout the hotel, including a 10-lane bowling alley, retro arcade, JackLaLanne Physical Fitness Studio, a zero-entry pool and Universal Orlando’s first-ever lazy river.

About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And now, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk – a unique dining and entertainment complex featuring one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops and nightclubs. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, andYouTube.

DVC Member Culinary Magic Event: Boma – Flavors of Africa Brunch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Experience a “Wild” Brunch with the Whole Troop

Dine under the thatched roofs of Boma—Flavors of Africa and experience the comfort of African culture and traditions at this exclusive Disney Vacation Club brunch.

Over 50 African countries from the coast of the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean influence our creative cooking–African-inspired dishes, carved meats, seafood, salads, breakfast omelets, desserts, pastries, and “Boma Mimosas” round out the offerings at this special brunch for Disney Vacation Club families.

Event Details

Date: Sunday, March 8, 2015 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM

Location: Boma — Flavors of Africa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Jambo House

Pricing: Adult Price (age 10 and up): $47.99, plus tax and gratuity, Child Price (ages 3 to 9): $22.99, plus tax and gratuity

Booking: All reservations can be made through Member Services.

Menu:

Reservations are required and can be made through Member Services. Disclaimers:

Full payment for Culinary Magic experiences must be made via credit card at time of booking.
There is a one–day cancellation policy. The full price will be charged or forfeited for no shows and cancellations that occur with less than one day’s notice
Disney Dining Plan entitlements will not be accepted as payment.
All dinners and menus are subject to change or cancellation.
Culinary Magic experiences are not eligible for any additional special offers or discounts, including the DVC Member 10% food and beverage discount.

LEGOLAND Florida Kicks Off Christmas Bricktacular

LEGOLAND Florida Resort Helps Spread Holiday Cheer as 40 Make-A-Wish Families Light the

LEGO^® Tree Kicking Off Christmas Bricktacular!

Emmet And Wyldstyle from “The LEGO^® Movie” Make Special Appearance

Christmas spirit was glowing in the faces of children Saturday night as LEGOLAND Florida Resort hosted 40 Make-A-Wish families to kick off Christmas Bricktacular presented by Shutterfly^®, with a Tree Lighting Ceremony in a colorful celebration full of music, lights and snow!

Merlin’s Magic Wand provided tickets for nearly 200 Make-A-Wish guests to enjoy the theme park and be special VIP guests at the ceremony. LEGO^® Santa and the stars of “The LEGO^® Movie,” Emmet and Wyldstyle, brought up four children from Make-A-Wish Foundation to share the stage and help light the more than 30-foot tall LEGO Christmas tree made up of 270,000 LEGO and DUPLO® bricks. The children included Riley Mazur, Elizabeth Pranger, Joshua Chambers, and Emsley Long.

“As a theme park that is truly built for kids, we are honored to host these great kids and create wonderful holiday memories for them and their families. We’d like to thank Make-A-Wish for the opportunity to work together on this event, and for all of the wonderful things they do to support children and their families all year long,” said LEGOLAND Florida Resort General Manager Adrian Jones.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s parent company, Merlin Entertainments, created Merlin’s Magic Wand to put the magic back into the childhoods of seriously ill, disabled and disadvantaged children. Teaming up with Make-A-Wish for this special event, the two charitable organizations aim to give this wonderful group of children a day to escape and enter a world where they can take control.

“We are thrilled to continue our long-standing relationship with LEGOLAND to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. LEGOLAND creates an amazing hands-on experience for our Wish children who wish to go to the park or to be a Master Model Builder for the day. We appreciate the continued support and commitment LEGOLAND gives to our organization,” said Chair of Board of Directors for Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida Chris Quarles.

The annual Christmas Bricktacular event continues weekends in December with extraordinary holiday-themed LEGO builds, interactive LEGO Character Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier Characters and snow fall in Fun Town. Visit with paid admission now through Dec. 27, 2014, and receive a free return visit Jan. 1- Feb. 28, 2015!

About LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort:

LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort is a 150-acre interactive theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, a Water Park and The LEGO® World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network all geared to families with children ages 2 to 12. Recently announced, LEGOLAND Hotel will open in 2015 featuring 152 highly themed rooms and suites, LEGO décor, interactive play areas, a pool and a restaurant. There are currently five other LEGOLAND Parks in the world – LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND Billund in Denmark, LEGOLAND Deutschland near Günzburg, Germany and LEGOLAND Windsor outside of London and LEGOLAND Malaysia —the sixth LEGOLAND Park and first in Asia. The LEGOLAND theme parks are a part of Merlin Entertainments Group, the second largest attractions operator in the world. For the most current information, log on to www.LEGOLAND.com.

Holiday Gift Ideas: Wonder Forge Games

Disclaimer: I was given games by the Wonder Forge Company to create this post. All opinions are my own.

In my search for Holiday Gifts I am always on the lookout for products that recall memories from our trips to the Orlando Theme Parks, and Wonder Forge has some great games for the whole family!

What I really appreciate about Wonder Forge games is that they are extremely high quality and they really pay attention to every detail!

When you open the game boxes, you will notice that there is place for everything! If you are anything like me you try to keep your game pieces organized, and the good folks at Wonder Forge have created packages that have holders for cards and package dice in zip top bags. It makes clean up a breeze, because it is easy to see if you are missing anything.

Also the pieces, spinners, and dice are full of details are a great size that easy for little hands to manage.

Let’s take a peek at some of the games that I was sent to review!

Disney Pictopia: The Ultimate Picture Trivia Game

While I am sometimes wary of trivia games to play with Zoe, but Disney Pictopia is the perfect mix of questions for the whole family!

Disney Pictopia has 1,000 questions with pictures covering the the World of Disney from Disney Jr. and Disney XD to the Disney Parks to films that players use to place a wager based on their knowledge of those images.

We really enjoyed that there were individual and group questions!

Disney Pictopia: The Ultimate Picture Trivia is now added to our normal rotation for Friday Family Game Nights!

Frozen Surprise Slides

Frozen Surprise Slides is a really fun take on the classic slides and ladder game that we all really had a blast playing.

The game play is cofortably familiar, but as you journey high into the Arendelle Mountains with some of your favorite friends things can take a twist as paths and your scenery can change with a flick of the spinner.

I love that Marshmallow, the troll’s secret glen, and skate past Wandering Oaken.

Our only issue was deciding who got to be Olaf!!!

Royal Pet Salon

Zoe’s absolute favorite games was the Disney Palace Pets Royal Pet Salon Game!

In this 3D Royal Pet Salon, you move your super cute pet from room to room looking for products that are hidden within the rooms that are fit for a Disney Princess.

I think that this game would be especially fun at a sleep over or playdate!

Disney Junior Super Stretchy

I may have thrown my back out playing the Disney Junior Super Stretchy Game, but it was a blast.

Disney Junior characters from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins, and Jake and the Neverland Pirates encourage you the whole family to get moving.

Make sure that you set this up in an area where you have lots of space and that is not too slippery.

We were laughing so hard it was hard to make our next move, but I thought that was a good problem to have!

Dr. Suess Charades

We play a lot of charades in our house, and Dr. Suess Charades is a fun ‘Suessian’ twist on this classic game!

I really enjoyed that the cards had both the words and illustrations making even the youngest player confident enough to join the fun!

While I was initially worried that Zoe would have a hard time with the Suess character, I was totally wrong as she was very in to the game!

Ultimate Spider-Man Trickshot Duel Action Game

I didn’t want to leave out the boys, and Wonder Forge didn’t either because the Ultimate Spider-Man Trickshot Duel Action Game rocks!

Green Goblin hatches an evil plan to break Spider-Man’s arch-enemies out from behind bars on the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier. Face off in the game arena as Spidey or Green Goblin and fire discs to take out your opponent’s hero or villain pucks. Last one standing in the Helicarrier arena is the winner!

It is important to note that you do ‘shoot’ discs in this game, so we found that playing on the floor worked better than a table since we had to pick up pieces on a few occasions.

We really had a ton of fun playing all of these wonderful games from Wonder Forge, and I can’t wait until our next Friday Family Game Night to play them again!

Fleetwood Mac Coming To Orlando’s Amway Center

Currently touring on their critically-acclaimed, On With The Show Tour, Fleetwood Mac announced today that they have added 11 more dates including a stop in Orlando at the Amway Center on March 23. Tickets go on sale to the general public onMonday, December 15 at 10 a.m.

American Express Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Tuesday, December 9 at 10 a.m. through Sunday, December 14 at 10 p.m.

Fleetwood Mac is currently performing with their five-star line up including the return of songbird, Christine McVie, who rejoined the band following a 16 year absence.

Recent Reviews of Fleetwood Mac’s On With The Show Tour

“The principal emotion during the two and a half hour performance was the joy of having keyboardist, McVie back in this group . . . she brought high harmonies and several songs including, ‘Little Lies,’ ‘You Make Loving Fun’ and the closing ‘Songbird,’ back into the repertoire. Nicks hasn’t sounded this good since the early ’90’s. What a rhythm machine and what an articulate emotional guitarist Buckingham is.” ~ Minneapolis Star Tribune

“It’s still magical. Between Buckingham’s epic guitar solos, Mick Fleetwood’s massive drumming, John McVie’s strong bass work, Nicks’ patented spins to punctuate the lovely ‘Gypsy’ and Christine McVie’s lush vocals, Fleetwood Mac looked ready to take on what Buckingham has called the ‘next chapter.'” ~ Newsday

“Fleetwood Mac has the intricacy, elegance and underlying punch of its songs . . . ” ~ The New York Times

“With Christine’s songs back in the set, her calm, angular presence back on the stage, there was an undeniable feeling of rejuvenation. . . Fleetwood and John McVie on bass reminded concert-goers why the band is named for them. . . They still put a layer of muscle behind everything the band did. . . Buckingham was ferocious and tireless as lead guitar. This man is a vital musical presence – the soul of the band. Ditto for the vitality of Nicks, its cauldron-stirring spirit. . . Her showcase songs, ‘Landslide,’ ‘Gold Dust Woman,’ and especially ‘Silver Springs.’ were the night’s highlights.” ~ Chicago Tribune

“Drum solos can sometimes seem like an endurance test for a rock audience. It’s a rare joy to witness one wherein the drummer seems to experience as much giddy delight as Mick Fleetwood did. He whooped and howled, coaxing the crowd in call-and-response shouts while demonstrating his singular rhythmic sensibility.”

~ Chicago Sun Times

TICKETS: $47.50, $77.50, $127 & $177. 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. The 875,000 square foot, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and unmatched technology, including 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. Amway Center was recently honored with TheStadiumBusiness Awards’ 2013 Customer Experience Award and named SportsBusiness Journal’s 2012 Sports Facility of the Year. For more information about the Amway Center, visit www.amwaycenter.com.

Taking The Polar Plunge For Special Olympics Florida

I am joining 1,100 other brave souls to take the 6th Annual Special Olympics Florida Polar Plunge Aquatica Orlando on February 7, 2015!

The Special Olympics Florida’s Polar Plunge at Aquatica, is statewide fundraiser during which individuals and teams, alongside Special Olympics athletes raise money for the privilege of Plunging into the chilled down wave pool.

Aquatica is usually warm and tropical, but once each year they chill down their wave pool so you can experience the “thrill of the chill” all while supporting a great cause.

When I was younger I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer with Special Olympics, and after attending the Opening for the Sumer Games I was hooked back in to doing whatever I could to help!

Only the wave pool is chilled down, the rest of the rides are heated, so if you want to come and cheer me on, become a virtual plunger, or if you want to form a team of your own you can find out more about it here.

You can also follow my adventure on Twitter with the hashtag #PlungeFL!

If you feel so inclined, I would totally appreciate any support you could offer! I have put a widget for donations on the site or you can visit my First Giving Page for the Special Olympics Florida Plunge!

Wordless Wednesday – Happy Holidays

Wordless Wednesday – December 3, 2014

Wet ‘N Wild Looking For Waves of Glory Battle Of The Bands Participants

Wet ‘n Wild Orlando Announces Date for 7th Annual Waves of Glory, and begins the Search for Battle of the Bands Participants.

Today Wet ‘n Wild Orlando announced that the 7th Annual Waves of Glory event will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2015. A nationally known Christian artist will be soon be selected to headline the event and announced at a later date.

Meanwhile, Wet ‘n Wild is looking to select the best in regional Christian music talent for the Battle of the Bands portion of the event. Waves of Glory provides a great format for Christian artists to share their musical gifts with the community in a battle-of-the-bands style competition alongside a day of worship and praise. From rock to hip-hop and praise bands to Gospel choirs, every sound and every style is represented and encouraged to participate. Bands and musicians wishing to apply may do so by visiting www.wetnwildorlando.com/wavesofglory.

All submissions must be completed in their entirety and returned no later than Friday, January 9, 2015. The selected musicians will compete at Waves of Glory for two-thousand dollars in cash prizes, which include matched winnings by Wet ‘n Wild for each group to donate to a charity of their choice as well as the opportunity to perform live at Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe, Florida’s largest Christian music festival, in September 2015.

Wet ‘n Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark, sets the standard for thrills and over-the-top excitement – offering world-class attractions to thrill-seekers of all ages. Families can share a wide variety of waterpark adventure, with more than fifteen themed rides and attractions and more multi-person rides than any other waterpark in Central Florida. Experience a deep space adventure that’s light years from ordinary on The Black Hole: The Next Generation. Encounter a splashing dose of group therapy on the Brain WashTM or boogie down on the retro raft adventure Disco H2OTM. Experience Wet ‘n Wild’s newest attraction Aqua Drag Racer the tallest and fastest ride of its kind in Florida. At Wet ‘n Wild you’ll find high-speed, seriously twisted, multi-person adventures that let you feel the fun and share the rush.

Month: December 2014

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex SpaceX Launch Viewing

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Guests Can Enjoy Best Public Viewing of SpaceX

Rocket Launch on December 19, 2015

Sharing The Holiday Spirit With Christmas In The Shire

Disney Vacation Club: Disney’s Polynesian Villas Bungalows!

Disney Vacation Club: New details announced for Disney’s Polynesian Villas Bungalows!

Disneynature Monkey Kingdom News

Wordless Wednesday: The Rat King And The Nutcracker Prince

Wordless Wednesday: December 10, 2014

Disney Vaction Club Member Magical Holiday Feast

Disney Vacation Club Members can come experience a magical holiday dinner and celebration at Walt Disney World Resort with your family!

Disney Vaction Club Member Magical Holiday Feast Details

Take A Spin At The Richard Petty Driving Experience With Jeremiah

Universal Orlando Resort Extends Military Offer

Universal Orlando Resort Extends its Theme Park Ticket Offer for Active Duty and Retired Members of the Military

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO MILITARY OFFERS

DVC Member Culinary Magic Event: Boma – Flavors of Africa Brunch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

DVC Member Culinary Magic Event: Boma – Flavors of Africa Brunch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Experience a “Wild” Brunch with the Whole Troop

Game and Activities for Your Cubs

Event Details

LEGOLAND Florida Kicks Off Christmas Bricktacular

LEGOLAND Florida Resort Helps Spread Holiday Cheer as 40 Make-A-Wish Families Light the

LEGO^® Tree Kicking Off Christmas Bricktacular!

Holiday Gift Ideas: Wonder Forge Games

Fleetwood Mac Coming To Orlando’s Amway Center

Recent Reviews of Fleetwood Mac’s On With The Show Tour

Taking The Polar Plunge For Special Olympics Florida

Wordless Wednesday – Happy Holidays

Wordless Wednesday – December 3, 2014

Wet ‘N Wild Looking For Waves of Glory Battle Of The Bands Participants

Wet ‘n Wild Orlando Announces Date for 7th Annual Waves of Glory, and begins the Search for Battle of the Bands Participants.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Guests Can Enjoy Best Public Viewing of SpaceX

Rocket Launch on December 19, 2015

Disney Vacation Club: New details announced for Disney’s Polynesian Villas Bungalows!

Wordless Wednesday: December 10, 2014

Disney Vacation Club Members can come experience a magical holiday dinner and celebration at Walt Disney World Resort with your family!

Disney Vaction Club Member Magical Holiday Feast Details

Universal Orlando Resort Extends its Theme Park Ticket Offer for Active Duty and Retired Members of the Military

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO MILITARY OFFERS

DVC Member Culinary Magic Event: Boma – Flavors of Africa Brunch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Experience a “Wild” Brunch with the Whole Troop

Game and Activities for Your Cubs

Event Details

LEGOLAND Florida Resort Helps Spread Holiday Cheer as 40 Make-A-Wish Families Light the

LEGO® Tree Kicking Off Christmas Bricktacular!

Recent Reviews of Fleetwood Mac’s On With The Show Tour

Wordless Wednesday – December 3, 2014

Wet ‘n Wild Orlando Announces Date for 7th Annual Waves of Glory, and begins the Search for Battle of the Bands Participants.

LEGO^® Tree Kicking Off Christmas Bricktacular!