February 2016 - Page 2 of 2 - On the Go in MCO

LEGOLAND Florida Brick Dash 5K Registration Open

Register Now for the Brick Dash 5K Run and Fun Walk at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Set for Saturday, April 16, the Annual Brick Dash 5K Community Event Benefits Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Fund for Women and Children

LEGOLAND Florida Resort Brick Dash 5K 2016 LEGO RUN Combining family, fitness and fun, the annual Brick Dash 5K Run and Fun Walk presented by Sun Newspapers returns to LEGOLAND Florida Resort on Saturday, April 16, benefiting the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Fund for Women and Children.

A Polk County tradition for more than two decades, the early morning event formerly known as the Citrus Classic invites runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to enjoy the splendor of LEGOLAND Florida Resort beginning at 7 a.m.

This year, kids and kids at heart will run, jog or walk past icons like The Orlando Eye, the newest LEGO model in Miniland, and participants are sure to find encouragement from Emmet and Wyldstyle, stars of “The LEGO^® Movie 4D™ A New Adventure,” the resort’s dazzling new theatrical attraction in Fun Town.

“Supporting the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Fund for Women and Children at the place built for kids is truly the perfect fit,” said David Johnson, new business development director for LEGOLAND parent company Merlin Entertainments and its creative division, Merlin Magic Making, as well as a Winter Haven Hospital Foundation trustee. “This year’s event is sure to be the most awesome yet.”

New this year to the Brick Dash 5K, participants 5 and under can compete in the 100 yard dash, while the Kids Half Mile is specially designed for participants 12 and under. Custom-made LEGO trophies will be given to first-, second- and third-place runners in each age category, plus first-place finishers in the overall male and female divisions, and for the masters male and female divisions. Every participant will receive a T-shirt and specially designed LEGO medal.

“We are thrilled and grateful to continue our partnership with LEGOLAND Florida Resort,” said Joel Thomas, president of the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation, “which allows us to keep this wonderful event fresh and fun for all while making a huge impact for the local women and children we serve.”

Registration is available at www.active.com or by calling the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation at (863) 292-4138. The fee for participants 13 and older is $35; the fee for children 12 and under is $25. A family of up to five participants is $99. Special corporate rates are offered; call the Foundation for more information. All Central Florida elementary schools will have the opportunity to participate in “Max’s School Challenge” by including a school name when registering. The elementary school with the most participants will receive a special visit from a LEGOLAND Florida Resort character, a special LEGO trophy and more.

Discounted, one-day admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort is offered to every Brick Dash participant for $30 plus tax. Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park also is available for an additional $15 per person. The special Brick Dash ticket prices are available only on Saturday, April 16.

For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, contact the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation at (863) 292-4138 or whhfoundation@baycare.org.

Special thanks to Publix, Bright House Networks, Max98.3, Jarrett Ford of Winter Haven, and Today and Tonight Magazine for sponsoring this year’s event.

Take In the Awesomeness That Is The Jungle Book Trailer #JungleBook

Take In the Awesomeness That Is

The Jungle Book Trailer

The Jungle Book Trailer is here, and you have to check it out!!!

httpv://youtu.be/C4qgAaxB_pc

Directed by Jon Favreau (“Iron Man”), based on Rudyard Kipling’s timeless stories and inspired by Disney’s classic animated film, “The Jungle Book” is an all-new live-action epic adventure about Mowgli (newcomer Neel Sethi), a man-cub who’s been raised by a family of wolves.

But Mowgli finds he is no longer welcome in the jungle when fearsome tiger Shere Khan (voice of Idris Elba), who bears the scars of Man, promises to eliminate what he sees as a threat.

Urged to abandon the only home he’s ever known, Mowgli embarks on a captivating journey of self-discovery, guided by panther-turned-stern mentor Bagheera (voice of Ben Kingsley), and the free-spirited bear Baloo (voice of Bill Murray).

Along the way, Mowgli encounters jungle creatures who don’t exactly have his best interests at heart, including Kaa (voice of Scarlett Johansson), a python whose seductive voice and gaze hypnotizes the man-cub, and the smooth-talking King Louie (voice of Christopher Walken), who tries to coerce Mowgli into giving up the secret to the elusive and deadly red flower: fire.

The all-star cast also includes Lupita Nyong’o as the voice of the fiercely protective mother wolf Raksha, and Giancarlo Esposito as the voice of wolf pack’s alpha male Akela.

“The Jungle Book” seamlessly blends live-action with photorealistic CGI animals and environments, using up-to-the-minute technology and storytelling techniques to immerse audiences in an enchanting and lush world.

The wild adventure swings into theaters in 3D on April 15, 2016.

I’m seriously so excited to see The Jungle Book in April! It looks amazing!

For more information, check out Disney.com/thejunglebook, like The Jungle Book on Facebook, and follow along on Twitter and Instagram.

Wordless Wednesday: Spring Has Sprung At Epcot

Wordless Wednesday

February 10, 2016

This week’s Wordless Wednesday takes us to Epcot at Walt Disney World where Spring has Sprung early, and beautiful flowers are popping up all over the Park. While I think these are Pink Snapdragons, I know that they are the absolute perfect shade of pink!

SeaWorld Orlando News: Bands, Brew & BBQ Kicks Off This Weekend

SeaWorld Orlando News: Bands, Brew & BBQ Kicks Off This Weekend with Smash Mouth and Gladys Knight

It’s time again to eat, drink and rock at SeaWorld Orlando’s Bands, Brew & BBQ festival every Saturday and Sunday, February 13 through March 6. The event is in partnership with USO Central Florida and honors America’s heroes. It features live concerts from top classic rock and country musical artists, tasty BBQ and thirst-quenching brews, and special discounts for active duty military and veterans.

This year’s event kicks off with live performances by the unstoppable multi-platinum, Grammy nominated Smash Mouth on Saturday, February 13,and R&B legend, Gladys Knight, fondly known as the “Empress of Soul” on Sunday, February 14. Event festivities begin at 12 p.m. each weekend, with concerts at 4 p.m.*

In addition to the signature acts and festivities, the event also will feature a secondary stage to showcase local bands, and a DJ spinning music for guests to show off their line dancing and boot scootin’ skills.

Beyond the stage, guests can enjoy a Harley-Davidson Orlando display of motorcycles specifically for Bands, Brew and BBQ along with a collection of classic cars.

SeaWorld Orlando Bands Brew BBQ

Returning this year, the patriotic-themed USO Family Garden will offer animal encounters, Explore Zones and a kid-friendly interactive host making this the perfect place to play for families with young guests. Kids of all ages are invited to enjoy this family-friendly area while they learn to line dance, meet animals and have fun all afternoon.

SPECIAL PACKAGES:

For a VIP experience, packages with reserved seating are available.

VIP Front Row Seating & BBQ Package – Starting at just $40, guests can reserve a front row seat (just inches from the artists); enjoy a delicious BBQ Tasting Sampler, and one Quick Queue unlimited.

Concert Floor Seating & Quick Queue – Starting at just $24, guests can reserve floor seats right in front of the band and Quick Queue unlimited.

This year, SeaWorld’s chef experts fire up the grill with a bold array of BBQ options beyond the ordinary. From smoky and spicy to sweet and tangy, there are options for every craving, plus guests can match menu items with specific craft brews or a flight of wine.

New this year, connoisseurs of BBQ and craft brews can delight in sizzling sampler packages sure to elevate the taste buds.

SPECIAL BANDS, BREW & BBQ PACKAGES INCLUDE:

BBQ Tasting Sampler – Guests can choose up to five menu items from SeaWorld’s sampler selections at any of the Bands, Brew & BBQ food locations for just $20.

Craft Brew Sampler – Guests sample 10 ice-cold craft beers — from a selection of more than 30 brews — for just $30.

BBQ Tasting and Craft Brew Sampler (Best Value) – This sampler includes five menu items and five craft brew samples along the Bands, Brew & BBQ Pathway –all for only $35.

MILITARY OFFER – ACTIVE DUTY AND VETERANS

SeaWorld Orlando also is proud to offer a special discount for enlisted men and women and veterans during this event, including 50% off the standard price of the 2016 Fun Card, which allows unlimited admission to SeaWorld all year for the price of a single-day ticket. Military also get 10% off special sampler Bands, Brew & BBQ packages. For more details, visit wavesofhonor.com.

LIMITED TIME OFFER – 2016 SEAWORLD ORLANDO FUN CARD

As a special discount for purchasing early — now through March 6 — guests who purchase a Fun Card will pay for less than a day and play all year long. During this special timeframe, the 2016 SeaWorld Orlando Fun Card is just $94 plus tax, which is a $5 savings.

Bands, Brew & BBQ is included with regular park admission. Stay tuned for the latest event information and artist announcements onSeaWorldOrlando.com as well as SeaWorld’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. Join the conversation using #SeaWorld #BandsBrewBBQ. Pay for less than a day Fun Card must be redeemed in-park by March 6, 2016. Taxes, shipping, and service fees not included.

*Event times, dates and talent are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.*

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Unveils All-New Priceless Collection of Music Memorabilia

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Unveils
All-New Priceless Collection of Music Memorabilia as Finale to Multi-Million Dollar Renovation and 15th Anniversary

Memorabilia experts and rock historians have assembled an entirely new collection of some of the greatest music memorabilia this side of the 20th century at the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando. From The Rolling Stones, Elvis and The Beatles to Rihanna, Lady Gaga and Santana, the dazzling collection is the finale to the hotel’s multi-million dollar renovation, coinciding with the hotel’s 15th anniversary this year.

Recognized for infusing world-class hospitality with music for more than four decades, the global collection of Hard Rock venues applaud music history through the brand’s signature music memorabilia displays adorning wall to wall. With more than 80,000 legendary pieces, Hard Rock is the curator of the world’s most expansive and priceless music memorabilia collection and Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando welcomes guests to enjoy this first-hand music experience.

“As music is a universal language and Hard Rock celebrates music that spans all genres and eras, we wanted the new memorabilia collection to celebrate iconic names in music’s past and present,” says Jerry Fraize, Director of Memorabilia for Hard Rock International.

“The premier display located in the hotel lobby now celebrates the legends of The Beatles and Rolling Stones in an awe-inspiring showcase. Additionally, to enhance the guest experience, we have added QR codes that allow instant access to the history of each piece in this extraordinary collection.”

httpv://youtu.be/dmfSLNiJqWk

From the suit John Lennon wore in the Beatles’ classic 1964 film debut, A Hard Day’s Night to a latex gown worn by Lady Gaga, the new collection of memorabilia is Hard Rock’s way of paying homage to the power of music and its impact on culture. Highlights of the new collection also include Keith Richards’ five-string guitar used during the Stones’ Some Girls tour; a jumpsuit worn on stage by Michael Jackson during the Jacksons’ 1984 Victory tour; a dress worn by Carrie Underwood in the video for her 2014 hit “Something in the Water” and a mixer, outfit, cake prop and headphones used on stage by Steve Aoki, among other items.

You can take a closer look at all of the pieces in the hotel’s new collection here.

Hard Rock’s renowned collection got its start innocently enough when a regular patron of the Hard Rock Cafe London handed over his beat-up Fender Lead II guitar as an irreverent gift to the burger joint he loved and suggested it would look nice on the wall. Then, another London guitarist and Hard Rock regular sent the cafe his Gibson Les Paul with a note that read, “Mine’s as good as his any day.” The story would have ended there, if the two guitarists were not named Eric Clapton and Pete Townshend.

Today, Hard Rock has evolved into a brand internationally recognized for world-class entertainment, stylish and contemporary design and unparalleled service. The thread that still unites them all is music. At Universal Orlando Resort, guests of Hard Rock Hotel get to live the rock star lifestyle with an exclusive package of theme park benefits at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, including free Universal Express Unlimited ride access (theme park admission required) and Early Park Admission. The 650-room hotel, operated by Loews Hotels & Resorts, is located just a short walk, complimentary water taxi or shuttle bus ride from both Universal Orlando Resort theme parks.

For more information or to book a stay at Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando, visit www.hardrockhotelorlando.com.

The Lion Guard Adventure Roars Into Animal Kingdom #DisneyKids

The Lion Guard Adventure debuted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and this photo scavenger hunt allows fans of Disney Junior’s newest animated show “The Lion Guard” to become an Honorary Member of The Lion Guard, and our whole family had a wild day taking part in the fun.

Kion, the lion cub son of Simba and Nala and future king of the Pride Lands, has come to the park to find new friends to join the Lion Guard. But where is Kion—and where are his fellow protectors of the Pride Lands: Ono, Bunga, Fuli and Beshte?

To start your adventure, visit select merchandise locations around Animal Kingdom to pick up a guide map that is full of kid-friendly facts and clues to engage your child’s curiosity and inspire them as future “protectors” of wildlife.

Here is where you can pick up your The Lion Guard Adventure Guide Maps:

Rafiki’s Planet Watch

Africa

Zuri’s Sweet Shop
Mombasa Marketplace
Festival of the Lion King

Discovery Island

Island Mercantile

Asia

Maharajah

Using your map, set out on your quest to take a picture with five kid-sized statues around the Park.

KION – Fiercest

Lions like KION communicate and scare off enemies with their fierce ROAR. ‘ROAR’ like KION!

ONO – Keenest of Sight

Birds use their KEEN EYES in flight to hunt insects. Use your KEEN EYES and your arms ‘like wings’ to fly like ONO.

BUNGA – Brave

Honey badgers like BUNGA, with their thick, armor-like skin are fearless and BRAVE. Raise your arms and shout ‘Zuka Zama!’ Show how BRAVE you are.

BESHTE – Strongest

Hippos like BESHTE love to rest in cool water. But on land, they can use their STRONG LEGS to out run a human. Flex your STRONG ARMS AND LEGS like BESHTE.

FULI – Fastest

Cheetahs like FULI, the fastest animal on land, use their tails for balance to run up to 70 miles per hour! Crouch down like FULI, ready to run your FASTEST!

What makes The Lion Guard Adventure a great addition to your day at Animal Kingdom is that all of the figures are conveniently ‘hidden’ on a normal path through the park as to not take too much time away from the attractions and shows.

The adventure ends at Rafiki’s Planet Watch where you take The Lion Guard Pledge before you receive your Lion Guard Mark of the Shield and become a new member of The Lion Guard.

The Lion Guard Pledge

I promise

To use my keen eyes

To see right and wrong,

To use my roar, and

To be brave, fast, and strong.

I will protect

My animal friends.

I pledge to the Lion Guard,

I will defend!

We really had a good time playing The Lion Guard Adventure, which only added an additional 30 minutes to our day due to Zoe wanting to take the perfect Selfie, and it is something that we will definitely do again on our next visit to Animal Kingdom.

Downtown Food & Wine Fest at Lake Eola Set for February 27 and 28, 2016

Produced by MIX 105.1, 1059 SUNNY FM, and 101.9 AMP Radio in partnership with the Central Florida Chapter of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association

The Eighth Annual Downtown Food & Wine Fest is set for Saturday, February 27 and Sunday, February 28, 2016 for more than 30,000 foodies and wine lovers to experience unique local cuisine paired with wines from around the globe.

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando at Lake Eola on Robinson Street, the two-day Fest features mouth-watering dishes from 30 of Orlando’s premier restaurants, 50 domestic and international wines and live entertainment. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Educational Foundation.

Featured entertainers include Michael Franti and American Authors with additional live music artists to be announced soon.

Downtown Food & Wine Fest at Lake Eola At-A-Glance

Date / Time:

Saturday, February 27 (noon to 9 p.m.) and Sunday, February 28, 2016 (noon to 7 p.m.)

Location:

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando at Lake Eola along Robinson Street

Tickets:

One-Day General Admission

Admission is $15 per person, per day with advance online purchase. Admission at the door is $20 per person, per day.

Two-Day General Admission

For all-weekend Fest fans, a two-day ticket is available for $25 per person with advance online purchase.

Wine Tasters Club

A limited number of Wine Tasters Club passes will be available for purchase for $15 per person at the Fest. Club members will enjoy up to five 2 oz. pours of their choice throughout the Fest and a souvenir lanyard.

Ultimate Fest Experience

A limited number of Ultimate Fest Experience packages are available for $100 per person, per day and includes a VIP parking pass, general admission, Wine Tasters Club, $20 value in food and beverage tickets, access to the private stage-side VIP tent, private wine/beer bar with premium wines (food and beverage tickets required) and access to private bathrooms reserved for VIP guests.

Food and beverage tickets are available at the Fest for $2 each; food and beverage offerings range from one to four tickets.

“With more than 1,000 events a year, Downtown Orlando offers residents and visitors alike with unique experiences and affordable entertainment options,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “Reoccurring community events like the Downtown Food & Wine Fest help to highlight our growing dining scene and bring awareness to our local businesses, strengthening economic growth to the area.”

Steve Carver, senior vice president and market manager, CBS RADIO Orlando commented, “Through the power of radio and the strength of our partnerships with the FRLA and Orlando restaurateurs, foodies and fans will come together to celebrate the sights, sounds and tastes of Orlando.”

Thirty top restaurants are scheduled to present culinary tastings including the return of the 2015 Foodie Award winners as honored by a panel of Orlando elected officials, food writers and reporters and celebrity chefs.

2015 Foodie Award: Marlow’s Tavern Shrimp & Grits

2015 Sweet Treat Award: Primo at JW Marriott Orlando Cannoli Gelato Cone

2015 Best of Show: Siro at Orlando World Center Marriott (winner 2013-2015)

Stay Connected: For more information on the Downtown Food & Wine Fest:

Visit www.DowntownFoodAndWineFest.com
Like Downtown Food & Wine Fest on Facebook
Follow @DTFoodWineFest
Use #DTFoodWineFest on Twitter and Instagram
Call the events hotline at 407-919-1048

Council of 101 Presents the 34th Annual Antiques Vintage and Garden Show

Council of 101 Presents the

34th Annual Antiques Vintage and Garden Show

Appearance by best-selling author India Hicks highlights

February 19 – 21, 2016 event at Orlando Museum of Art

Council of 101 is proud to present the 34th annual Antiques Vintage and Garden Show at the Orlando Museum of Art, from Friday, February 19 through Sunday, February 21, 2016.

A look back at the 2015 event

The Antiques Vintage and Garden Show will feature a dazzling array of collectibles, original art, fine jewelry, silver, porcelains, ceramics, textiles, florals, and furniture, as well as a wide variety of unique home and garden décor. Some of the nation’s most reputable dealers will be on-hand to showcase sought-after merchandise and share expert tips and knowledge.

Event speakers and vendors will guide guests in perfecting their individual style and flair from fashion to furnishings. Seasoned purveyors of antiquities and curious appreciators of style and beauty alike will leave with increased knowledge and perhaps some new additions to beautify their own home.

General admission tickets to the Antiques Vintage and Garden Show are $10.

Special Events

Guest Speaker India Hicks

This year’s guest speaker is India Hicks, a world-renowned author, model, entrepreneur, TV personality and daughter of famed designer David Hicks. Hicks comes from both British and design royalty. As the goddaughter of the Prince of Wales, Hicks served as a bridesmaid at his wedding to Lady Diana.

Hicks will speak at 11:00am on Friday, February 19, and will sign her books Island Style and Island Life. Tickets for this engagement are $45, and include admission to the Antiques Vintage and Garden Show. There will also be a unique opportunity to experience shopping and refreshments with Hicks that same day. For $125 per person, this VIP event also includes prime seating for Hicks’ presentation.

Opening Night Preview Party – Thursday, February 18 –6:30pm to 10:00pm – $95 per person includes complimentary valet parking and show admission for a sneak peek preview

What’s it Worth? Appraisal Days – From 1:00pm to 3:00pm each day, visitors can have their own items appraised by an expert. For anyone who’s ever pondered the true value of a family heirloom, this is the opportunity to find out. Reservations are required and are taken starting at noon each day. There is a two item appraisal limit and the cost is $10 per item.

Mystery Home Tour – Saturday, February 20 – 11:00am to 3:00pm – Inspiration seekers can tour a home that is bound to awaken their creative minds. $35 per person includes show admission.

Tickets are available by calling 407-896-4231, Ext. 254 or by visiting http://omart.org/events/antiques_vintage_and_garden_show/.

Admission to the Antiques Vintage and Garden Show includes general admission to Orlando Museum of Art exhibits. During the show, the museum will feature the Women of Vision: National Geographic Photographers on Assignment special exhibition.

The Antiques Vintage and Garden Show is a longstanding fundraiser event benefitting the Orlando Museum of Art and promoting the museum’s mission to advance the positive impact of art and creativity. Council of 101 has aided in raising over $6 million to support the Orlando Museum of Art.

Swiss Family Robinson

Recently I watched a new to me movie, which reminded me of one of my favorite movies as a kid, Disney’s Swiss Family Robinson. As I was raised to do, I read the book first and loved it, and then was introduced to this live action classic from 1960. Loosely based on the 1812 novel by Johann David Weiss, Disney acquired the rights to the Swiss Family Robinson in the 1940s after seeing an RKO produced version of the story.

The Swiss Family Robinson film is an adventure story laced with quite a bit of comedy, as well as a bit of romance, and lots of action. What I remember most from watching this movie when I was young is how awesome the treehouse was that the family built on the deserted island. This of course has been replicated in multiple Disney Parks around the world, including Disneyland from 1962 – 1999, the Magic Kingdom from opening day on October 1, 1971 and is still currently open. Disneyland Paris also opened with their version called La Cabane des Robinson, which is still open, and Tokyo Disneyland opened their Swiss Family Treehouse in 1993.

Aside from the awesome treehouse, Swiss Family Robinson always conjures up memories of the animal races the family had on the island, especially the ostrich. Right along with that memory is that of the climactic battle with the pirates at the fort. Those homemade coconut bombs looked so cool when I was a child (disclaimer: we do not condone the making of coconut or any other kinds of bombs. Don’t try any of this at home kids).

This film was extremely successful in its day, making back ten times over its original $4 million budget. In today’s dollars adjusted for inflation that $40 million take would be closer to $400 million, which makes it one of the most successful live action family films to this day. The Swiss Family Robinson is the first Disney live action movie to be filmed in the widescreen Panavision as opposed to CinemaScope. The movie stars John Mills (Disney Legend and father of also Disney Legend Hayley Mills), Dorothy McGuire (who also starred in Summer Magic and Old Yeller), James MacArthur (played in other Disney movies The Light in the Forest, Kidnapped, Third Man on the Mountain, and in several episodes of the Wonderful World of Color before his most famous role of Danno in Hawaii Five-0), Janet Munro (who starred with Sean Connery in Darby O’Gill and the Little People, as well as Third Man on the Mountain, and a few episodes of the Wonderful World of Color), along with Disney mainstays and also Disney Legends Tommy Kirk and Kevin Corcoran.

I picked up the Swiss Family Robinson movie on dvd not too long ago when it was being offered on the Disney Movie Rewards website. It is still available on Amazon as well as a few other places for less than $10, or for rent through Amazon for $3. I haven’t watched it in years and intend to revisit it this week. If you haven’t seen it, or if it has been a while, I highly recommend watching this Disney classic and visiting the Swiss Family Treehouse the next time you’re in one of the three remaining parks you can.

The Good Dinosaur Stampedes Home On Blu-ray This Month

The Perfect Adventure for the Whole Family Stampedes Home On Blu-ray Combo Pack, Digital HD, & Disney Movies Anywhere February 23

Extensive Bonus Features Include the Academy Award© Nominated Theatrical Short “Sanjay’s Super Team,” Making-of Featurettes, Deleted Scenes and More!

If you didn’t have the chance to catch The Good Dinosaur in theaters, you can own it on a Blu-ray Combo Pack, Digital HD, and Disney Movies Anywhere on February 23rd!

From the innovative minds of Disney•Pixar comes a hilariously heartwarming adventure about the power of confronting and overcoming your fears and discovering who you are meant to be.

The Good Dinosaur asks the question: What if the asteroid that forever changed life on Earth missed the planet completely, and giant dinosaurs never became extinct? In this epic journey into the world of dinosaurs, an apatosaurus named Arlo makes an unlikely human friend. While traveling through a harsh and mysterious landscape, Arlo learns the power of confronting his fears and discovers what he is truly capable of.

Each version of The Good Dinosaur is full of great Extras!

The Good Dinosaur Digital HD*, Blu-ray Combo Pack & Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA)

THEATRICAL SHORT – Sanjay’s Super Team – Sanjay loves the world of cartoons and comics, while his father tries to draw him into his Hindu traditions. Reluctance quickly turns into awe-inspiring adventure as the boy embarks on an amazing journey, returning with a new perspective they can both embrace.

TRUE LIES ABOUT DINOSAURS – We know – it’s preposterous to think Apatosaurs spoke English. Learn more about what separates the fictional dinosaurs of “The Good Dinosaur“ from what scientists know about real dinosaurs.

RECYCLOSAURUS – Pixar takes creative competition seriously. Maybe a little too seriously. Watch as “The Good Dinosaur” crew competes to see which department can create the best dinosaur ever…using only discarded items from the studio’s “free table.”

THE FILMMAKERS’ JOURNEY – Finding your way from an idea to a film takes a lot of exploration. Director Peter Sohn and his fellow filmmakers talk about the challenging, inspiring, and unexpectedly emotional experience of making “The Good Dinosaur.”

EVERY PART OF THE DINOSAUR – The filmmakers talk about the special animation challenges of “The Good Dinosaur” – including figuring out how to animate a dinosaur who’s really a boy, and a boy who’s got the spirit of a dog.

FOLLOWING THE T-REX TRAIL – Follow the filmmakers as they travel to a working cattle ranch and meet the McKays, a close-knit family whose work ethic, generosity, and stories inspired the T-Rex ranchers of the film.

COMMENTARY – Commentary from director Peter Sohn, story supervisor Kelsey Mann, supervising animator Mike Venturini, director of photography/lighting Sharon Calahan, and supervising technical director Sanjay Bakshi.

DINO BITES – Montage of original animated pieces produced to promote “The Good Dinosaur.”

HIDE AND SEEK – A short animated clip produced to promote “The Good Dinosaur.”

DELETED SCENES

o The Attack – An idyllic introduction to the family farm is cut short when a savage predator attacks the newborn Arlo. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.

o Building the Silo – An admiring Arlo is thrilled to follow along as his father builds a silo for the family farm. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.

o Waiting for Poppa – Arlo awaits the return of his beloved father on a stormy night, only to be greeted with tragic news. With an introduction by Director Peter Sohn.

The Good Dinosaur Blu-ray 3D & DVD:

THEATRICAL SHORT – Sanjay’s Super Team

The Good Dinosaur Digital Exclusive:

JUST LISTEN – Trace the development of the unique soundscape of “The Good Dinosaur,” from the wilds of British Columbia as Sound Designer Craig Berkey collects sounds, to the recording studio where Jeff and Mychael Danna use instruments from around the world to create the music.

Wordless Wednesday: Waiting at the Station

Wordless Wednesday

February 3, 2016

This week’s Wordless Wednesday brings us to Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure as we waited to board the Hogwarts Express to take us to Diagon Alley.

Experiencing The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure At LEGOLAND Florida

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure has arrived at LEGOLAND Florida Resort bringing a new attraction, new friends, and a new Celebration to the Park!

You can find The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure playing daily in the Wells Fargo 4D Theater.

This theatrical attraction is set after the events of the movie, the 12 ½-minute story finds the gang entangled in an Evil Secret Plot involving a mysterious theme park inspired by their adventures in “The LEGO Movie,” one that requires them to call on the Master Builder skills of a surprise ally to save the day.

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure was directed by Rob Schrab, who is making his feature film directorial debut with The LEGO Movie Sequel, set to open May 18, 2018. When it came to designing the attraction, he said a strong story was critical to its success.

“We only spotlight them for a fraction of the amount of time,” he said, “so it’s important to get to the fun as soon as possible. This is the first time Emmet, Wyldstyle and the gang meet since the film.”

While Elizabeth Banks (Wyldstyle), Nick Offerman (MetalBeard), Charlie Day (Benny) and Alison Brie (Unikitty) return to voice their characters from The LEGO Movie, Patton Oswalt now joins the gang as the Risky Business, brother of movie villain President Business, a new character created exclusively for the attraction.

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure is an experience both you and your little ones will want to repeat!!!

To make things even better, after you see the movie you can meet with some of its stars! Zoe got to meet Emmet and Risky Business on the Red Carpet.

But now at LEGOLAND Florida you will also find Benny, MetalBeard, and Unikitty (YES UNIKITTY) meeting guests in the Park.

Starting Feburary 6^thThe LEGO Movie 4D Weekends begin inviting fans to celebrate the new adventure of Emmet and his friends during an all-new event held exclusively at LEGOLAND Florida Resort every Saturday and Sunday in February.

Guests will enjoy extended park hours, LEGO building opportunities, hands-on activities built just for kids, a passport adventure with stops throughout the park and meet-and-greet opportunities with the characters from The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure, including some never seen before in a LEGOLAND theme park.

To conclude the fun each evening will end with an amazing fireworks display over picturesque Lake Eloise, and the best part is that all activities and entertainment are included with park admission.

If you loved The LEGO Movie (and really who didn’t?), you’re going to want to see The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure and be a part of the The LEGO Movie 4D Adventure!

Celebrate “World Sword Swallower’s Day” with Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Celebrate “World Sword Swallower’s Day” with

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium hosts free sword swallowing performances on February 27

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! will pay tribute to the ancient art of sword swallowing by holding free sword swallowing performances as part of World Sword Swallower’s Day on Saturday, February 27. Two things to remember – that’s solid steel and yes, it’s all real.

Orlando’s own Ted Campbell

Ripley’s will showcase the greatest group of sword swallowers ever assembled and offer free performances for the public at several of its Odditoriums around the world.

In Orlando, Ted Campbell will put his death-defying sword swallowing and fire eating skills on display. Other performers include Red Stuart, who has swallowed 50+ swords at one time, and Bill Berry, who juggles while sword swallowing! The show will start at 1:30 pm with an official swallow at 2:27 pm to coincide with the 2/27 date. Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium is located at 8201 International Dr. The sword swallowing

Bill Berry simultaneously sword swallowing and juggling!

performances will be FREE, but admission is required to tour the Odditorium.

This will be the 9th annual World Sword Swallower’s Day celebration, founded by the

Sword Swallowers Association International (SSAI) in partnership with Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

The event was created to recognize the handful of people in the world who can swallow swords, an ancient art that dates back some 4,000 years. The day also raises awareness of the contributions sword swallowers have made to the fields of medicine and science and raises money for esophageal cancer research.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has long chronicled the incredible feat of sword swallowing. Sword swallowers were prominently featured at the very first Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1933.

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Introduces New Acts And Special Offer

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil is always evolving with new additions, and the newest acts introduced into the show honor the past while looking forward to the future of entertainment.

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Disney Springs Walt Disney World — **Courtesy of La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil**

Aerial Bamboo may be new to La Nouba, but this rare performance has a deep history that starts in China and involves a pole-shaped apparatus, originally made of bamboo but now made of steel, suspended from the ceiling, with attached loops used for a variety of tricks and stunts.

This breathtaking performance marks the United States premiere of Russian couple Alexander and Ekaterina Abramov that will have you on the edge of your seat as Ekaterina is held only by Alexander – his arms, his feet and even his teeth – as he himself hangs by his feet or arms high above the stage.

I was spellbound by their talent, and I am pretty sure I didn’t breathe as the duo performed and she spun like a top. It was fantastic!

As a huge fan of America’s Best Dance Crew (Yes, I know I am dating myself here), I was really excited to see this B-Boy trio take the Cirque du Soleil stage for the first time!

If you aren’t familiar, B-Boying is a physically demanding form of dance, in which performers execute acrobatic tricks and moves, including flips and spins, to music.

The La Nouba artistic staff scoured the globe for its three inaugural B-Boys: Josh Ortiz (“Incredible Josh”), Jean Carlos Lloret (“Bebo”) and Dmytro Li (“Flying Buddha”). The three hail respectively from the Bronx, N.Y., the Boston area and Ukraine and are performing together for the first time. All three have been dancing since their youth and bring their own unique styles to the act.

I got the chance to see them dance on the La Nouba Stage (I totally geeked out), and it was a treat to see them up-close!

What makes these acts work so well is that La Nouba brought back original choreographer Debra Brown, original composer Benoit Jutras, and original lighting designer Luc Lafortune to seamlessly integrate these new acts into the show.

And if that wasn’t enough, La Nouba has created a new partnership with Morimoto Asia.

From now until July 31, 2016, all La Nouba by Cirque du Soliel guests will have the opportunity to purchase an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage on the Morimoto Asia menu and receive a complimentary four-piece California Roll or Vegetable Roll when they show their La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil ticket stub.

Morimoto Asia is located at The Landings at Disney Springs, approximately a 5 minute walk from the La Nouba Theater, and is a great way to round out your evening at Disney Springs!

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Disney Springs Walt Disney World Morimoto Asia Sushi

If you can’t tell, I REALLY enjoyed the newest additions to La Nouba by Cirqu du Soleil and suggest that you check them out soon!

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Disney Springs Walt Disney World

Kung Fu Panda Arrives At Madame Tussauds Orlando

Skadoosh! Kapoeey! Kung Fu Panda Arrives at Madame Tussauds Orlando

The young and the young at heart are invited to showcase their Kung Fu poses next to Po the giant panda

Kung Fu Panda Madame Tussauds Orlando — ***Courtesy of Madame Tussauds Orlando***

Madame Tussauds Orlando knows Kung Fu… Panda. The celebrity wax attraction has rolled out the welcome mat for Po the lovable Panda turned Dragon Warrior from the successful animated movie trilogy Kung Fu Panda. Po’s figure will be on display starting today, the opening day of the theatrical release of Kung Fu Panda 3.

Some fun facts about the new figure:

Po’s figure weighs 160 pounds
More than 75 square feet of synthetic black fur and 45 square feet of synthetic white fur were used to create Po’s figure
Po’s eyes are 4.5 inches in diameter
His fist is almost a foot long
Po’s shorts were made from three different types of silk and a jacquard fabric, which were specially dyed to create 10 different color patches in the style of his animated outfit in the films

Madame Tussauds Orlando has new Florida resident rates, offering attraction admission for $18 ($13 for children between the ages of 3-12). This special offer saves visitors more than 25 percent off regular admission. For a limited time, tickets may be purchased at MadameTussauds.com/Orlando or at the attraction’s admissions desk. This offer is valid for Florida residents, with valid proof of residency, such as a state-issued ID, utilities or cable bill, bank statement, library card, or recent paystub. Restrictions may apply. Prices and hours subject to change without notice. Attraction admission is not guaranteed and subject to availability. The offer is not valid for premium products and cannot be combined with any other offers or packages.

Madame Tussauds is world-renowned for the creation of detailed and lifelike wax figures that pay homage to A-list celebrities from film and television, sports icons, musicians from all genres, and notable figures from history and pop culture. Each Madame Tussauds figure is truly a work of art, involving teams of professional artists and sculptors who spend months on extensive research and take more than 300 measurements to recreate world-famous icons, to achieve the kind of astonishing realism that has been at the heart of the 250-year Madame Tussauds legacy.

Guests at Madame Tussauds Orlando will experience the essence of America with this brand new, immersive and interactive wax experience, bursting with family fun and world-class entertainment, as they move through themed areas meeting all of their favorite stars from award-winning film actors, to historical and modern world leaders, sports stars, music legends as well as figures important to Florida. All visitors can shake hands with the president, get on stage with rock stars and pop princesses, or get up close and personal with a Hollywood heartthrob and take the ultimate selfie! For more information, visit www.madametussauds.com/orlando.