RRunning Universal’s inaugural Epic Character Race 5K and 10K weekend will take off at Universal Orlando Resort on February 1 & 2, 2020 – but it wouldn’t be complete without a gaggle of larger-than-life characters cheering on the runners along the way.
The first-ever Epic Character Races will give participants ages five and up the unique opportunity to run surrounded by some of the most beloved characters in pop culture. Runners will be championed by mischievous Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me and Minions franchises, Velociraptor Blue from the Jurassic World franchise with her Raptor Expert, the world’s favorite ogre Shrek and his friends from the DreamWorks Animation films, the heroic Autobots and villainous Decepticons from Transformers and more. If runners need a pit-stop along the routes, many of these characters will be available for fun photo opportunities – making Running Universal’s Epic Character Race both an entertaining event and a race to remember.
Runners will also experience the exhilaration of running within the immersive theme park environments of Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure – recently named TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice for #1 Amusement Park in the World for the fifth year in a row.
5K runners will make their way through the Universal Studios Florida theme park – including the iconic scenery of New York, San Francisco and other areas of the park – as well as areas located toward the front of Islands of Adventure, including the mystical Port of Entry and Seuss Landing.
Runners of the 10K will experience a route that takes them throughout both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks, including the sprawling lands of Jurassic Park, Toon Lagoon and more.
Registration is open for Running Universal’s Epic Character Race, with standard pricing beginning at $82 per person (plus tax). Runners can choose from multiple options for an unforgettable weekend, including 5K or 10K race registration, VIP race upgrades – which includes an extra-special character meet-and-greet and a triumphant post-race breakfast – and weekend package options exclusive to race participants, featuring hotel accommodations at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites. Runners can also save on admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure to celebrate their racing achievement with their friends and family within the most entertaining theme parks in the Universe.
Training continues but the only way to lose this race is to not show up. For more information and to register for Running Universal’s Epic Character Race 5K and 10K weekend at Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/RunningUniversal.
Universal Studios Hollywood is also hosting its next “Running Universal” race featuring DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls on Sunday, April 26, 2020 with a 5K, a Kids’ 1K and a 10K run. For information about “Running Universal” events in both Orlando and Hollywood, go to www.RunningUniversal.com.
Until January 6, 2020, guests can experience an underwater winter wonderland during Deck the Seas at SEA LIFE Orlando!
Along with festive decor, little elves can meet Scuba Claus himself and his elves to discover if they are on the naughty or nice list this year.
Naughty or Nice? Find out with Scuba Claus Fridays through Sundays at 2:30 & 5:30
It’s holiday storytime with ‘Twas the Night before Fishmas Fridays through Sundays at 12:30 & 4:30
Deck the Seas is included with regular admission price to SEA LIFE Orlando & offered at select times only. Dives are subject to change or cancellation with no notice.
Become a Ranger & Deck the Seas with a Scavenger Hunt!
SEA LIFE Orlando
Calling all holiday elves! Become a SEA LIFE Ranger for just $5, take part in a festive scavenger hunt & win an exclusive Deck the Seas pop badge! Ever wondered which creatures like it chilly year-round? Find out with our Deck the Seas scavenger hunt!
Scavenger Hunt must be purchased on-site at admissions counter. Pop badges only available while supplies last.
Naughty or Nice?
SEA LIFE Orlando
Have you been naughty or nice? Find out during our Scuba Claus dive shows!
Fridays through Sundays in December at 2:30 & 5:30
Happy Holiday SEAson
Spot your favorite coldwater creatures at SEA LIFE Orlando! It’s holiday SEAson for them year-round!
‘Twas the Night Before Fishmas
SEA LIFE Orlando
Listen to Scuba Claus read the story of ‘Twas the Night Before Fishmas!
Fridays through Sundays in December at 12:30 & 4:30
You can find more information about events and attraction news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Universal Orlando Resort’s eighth hotel, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, will welcome guests for the first time on March 17, 2020.
Universal Orlando Resort
An extra-affordable Value category hotel, Dockside Inn and Suites will join its sister property at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort, Surfside Inn and Suites, which opened in June 2019.
Dockside Inn and Suites will add 2,050 guest rooms to the Universal Orlando hotel portfolio by the end of 2020, featuring both standard rooms and spacious 2-Bedroom Suites – which can accommodate up to six people. At Dockside Inn and Suites, guests will unwind in a carefree escape that perfectly blends the cool, calm feeling of a beach retreat.
Universal Orlando Resort
With rates starting at just $85 per night, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort combines the quality guests have come to expect from a Universal Orlando hotel with an extra-affordable price point – creating an experience that is unmatched in the Orlando area.
Universal Orlando Resort
Plus, hotel guests receive exclusive benefits, including Early Park Admission, complimentary transportation to and from the theme parks and more, creating a complete and seamless vacation experience.
Universal Orlando Resort
Dockside Inn and Suites will become the destination’s eighth property in partnership with Loews Hotels & Co, offering Universal Orlando guests a hotel choice for every style and budget.
Check out Universal’s Endless Summer Resort sister property Surfside Inn and Suites on our YouTube Channel!
You can find more information and to book a stay at Universal’s Dockside Inn and Suites here.
Reigning American Country Music (ACM) “Artist of the Decade” Jason Aldean announced his 2020 We Back Tour, which includes supporting artists Morgan Wallen, Riley Green and Dee Jay Silver on the first leg of the tour. Produced by Live Nation, the 20-city trek launches January 30 in Columbia, SC and spans across the U.S. including Orlando’s Amway Center on Friday, January 31, 2020.
Aldean is a member of country’s elite headliners whose incendiary tours are nearing legendary status as he has sold over 10 million tickets and is one of the first few acts in the genre to sell out multiple stadiums. Known to “immediately turn up the velocity” (Calgary Herald), Aldean continues to make “fan fervor reach a roar” (Times Colonist).
After almost 15 years at the top of his format, the three-time ACM “Entertainer of the Year” has seen trends come and go. He has helped bring a few out of the shadows, like a country-music Christopher Columbus making the mainstream’s first contact with hard rock (“Hicktown”), hip-hop (“Dirt Road Anthem”) and R&B (“Burnin’ It Down”). After all that time, he continues to hold his ground making modern albums with an old-school soul. With the upcoming release of his ninth studio album, “9,” as the album’s fiery lead single, “We Back” rounds out the first-released songs, and in characteristic Aldean fashion, it explodes into a hard-rock country anthem” (Rolling Stone).
As a dominant force on the charts, Aldean has scored 23 number ones and is the only country act in history to top the all-genre Billboard 200 chart four times in a row, while racking up 15 billion streams and more than 18 million albums sold.
Morgan Wallen’s debut album, “If I Know Me,” (Big Loud Records) delivered back-to-back platinum-certified number ones including “Up Down” featuring Florida Georgia Line; the multi-week chart-ruler “Whiskey Glasses;” the gold-certified lead, “The Way I Talk” and current single, “Chasin’ You.” With over one billion total streams to his credit, he received his first-ever Country Music Award (CMA) nomination for “New Artist of the Year,” after earning a Country Music Television (CMT) “Breakthrough Video of the Year” award nomination for “Whiskey Glasses.” The breakout star was chosen as a MusicRow 2019 “Next Big Thing” artist, spotlighted in CMT’s Listen Up “18 for 2018” class, and named a 2018 Taste of Country “Riser” among other accolades. Wallen has co-penned hits for Aldean (platinum-certified multi-week number one, “You Make It Easy”), Kane Brown, A Thousand Horses and Dustin Lynch, and garnered critical acclaim for his cover of Jason Isbell’s, “Cover Me Up,” while Diplo collaboration, “Heartless,” continues to gain momentum nationwide.
Riley Green released his full-length debut album, “Different ‘Round Here” (BMLG Records) September 20, which has already produced the number one hit, “There Was This Girl.” Highlighting his southern roots and relatability, he co-wrote each track offering a perspective that Rolling Stone describes as, “drinks-in-the-air nineties country at an Alabama vs. Auburn tailgate.” The 14-track project, recorded alongside producer Dann Huff and executive producer Jimmy Harnen, features his new single, “I Wish Grandpa’s Never Die.” Green has been named an “Artist To Watch” by Rolling Stone Country, Taste of Country, Whiskey Riff, Sounds Like Nashville and iHeartRadio and selected as a CMT “Listen Up Artist” as well as MusicRow’s 2019 “Next Big Things.”
Jason Aldean // 2020 We Back Tour With Special Guests Morgan Wallen And Riley Green
When: Friday, January 31, 2020 // 7:30 P.M.
Where: Amway Center // Orlando, Florida
Tickets: $25.50, $51.75, $81.75 & $101.75 (prices subject to change).
All tickets are reserved. Buy tickets at Amway Center box office 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.
For 35 years Hemingway’s at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort has been a staple in Orlando creating inventive cuisine inspired by the places and travels of Ernest Hemingway.
And in celebration of this milestone, the restaurant and it’s menu have been re-imagined to reflect the sights and flavors of Key West, Cuba and Spain.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
“Hyatt’s global philosophy, Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully Served., focuses on offering guests and associates healthy food and beverage options generated by the local community,” says Executive Chef David Didzunas. “This philosophy guides Hemingway’s food and beverage planning from the operational level to the guest experience. With this long term strategy, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress will continue to anticipate and satisfy the evolving preferences of its guests, ensuring that guests have more options to fit their needs and lifestyles while staying in Orlando.”
Before you enjoy a meal created by Executive Chef David Didzunas and his team, you can head into Hurricanes Lounge to enjoy stunning views of the resort and handcrafted cocktails including their signature Papa Doble and seasonal libations.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
Can’t make it to the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort? Here is how you can make your own Hemmingway’s Maple Whiskey Sour at home!
Hemmingway’s Maple Whiskey Sour
Ingredients:
2oz of Bourbon
1oz Lemon Juice
.75oz Maple Syrup
Egg white from 1 egg
Prep:
Freshly squeeze your lemons
Separate your egg white from the yolk
Instructions:
Pour all of ingredients above into a shaker
Shake vigorously & strain into a rocks glass over a giant ice cube!
For more information about Hemingway’s and Hurricanes Lounge at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort, visit https://www.hemingwaysorlando.com/ or call (407) 239-1234.
Aquatica Orlando is racing into 2020 with a one-of-a-kind new park attraction that will thrill park-goers—Florida’s first-ever dueling water slide, Riptide Race.
Starting atop a 68-foot tower, riders will be able to grab a raft and take their mark in side-by-side racing lanes at top speeds. Each raft holds a team of two, so every rider will have a partner as they plunge toward a hopeful victory. Plus, Riptide Race rafts feature low walls to ensure full view of the competition. Dueling face-to-face, racers will navigate tight loops and accelerations through indoor and outdoor sections. It’s a marathon to the finish through nearly 650 feet of splashing slide!
“Riptide Race will offer a ride experience you won’t be able to get anywhere else in Florida. Aquatica will be the first waterpark in the state to have a thrilling, and more importantly, dueling water slide,” said David Heaton, Aquatica Orlando vice president. “Riptide Race is the perfect addition to our attraction portfolio, complementing what is already one of the most family friendly waterslide lineups in Orlando.”
Riptide Race will have a height requirement of 42 inches to appeal to families with children, and the new slide will be conveniently located on the north side of the park next to Banana Beach Cook Out.
The best way to experience Aquatica is with an Aquatica Orlando Annual Pass or Fun Card. Guests can become Aquatica Annual Pass holders for as little as $9.25 per month, offer ends December 3, and enjoy 12 months of visits and receive park benefits and rewards including FREE parking, priority access to ride Riptide Race in 2020, in-park discounts and much more. Or, guests can purchase a Fun Card which provides unlimited access to the park for the entire 2020 operating season for only $76.99 – Buy a Fun Card now and get the rest of the 2019 operating season for FREE¹. For more information, visit AquaticaOrlando.com.
Assemble your squad and get ready to turn up the fun at Aquatica in 2020.
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier “Snowing” event, offers one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Now Snowing is a month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens style Carolers**, photos with Santa**, horse drawn carriage rides, ice skating, train rides, and nightly snowfall at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00 and 9:00 PM. It’s a true throwback to the traditional family style holiday.
In addition to the everyday fun at Now Snowing Nightly, you can catch a A Countdown to Christmas on December 14th – an evening filled with young talent from across the United States and featuring talent seen on national television and radio, and more. These free concerts are in addition to the everyday fun already a part of Now Snowing. Past performances include Justin Bieber, Keke Palmer, Mitchell Musso and many more.
The event is brought to you by Lexin Capital, and sponsored in part by the Celebration Town Tavern, and Experience Kissimmee. Now Snowing Nightly parking and admission are free. Celebration is conveniently located between Highway 192 and interstate 4 near Walt Disney World.
Parking is Free in Open Lots. The town will enforce parking laws, and tow vehicles illegally parked or parked in unauthorized areas at owner’s expense. Please pay close attention to parking and street signs.
*weather permitting. Inoperable during periods of heavy rain or temperatures below 34 degree (F) ** on select nights through December 24th
Free Nightly Snowfall at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00 and 9:00 PM
everyday November 30th-December 31st *
*weather permitting. Inoperable during periods of heavy rain or temperatures below 34 degree (F)
ICE SKATING
Cost to Skate*: $10.00 (ice skates included) for 30 minutes of skating
Hours: 4:00 pm-10:00 pm Nightly November 30th -December 31st.
For more Information: 407-566-2526
*Synthetic ice rink
CELEBRATION EXPRESS TRAIN
Cost: $5.00
Hours: 5:00 pm-close Nightly November 30th-December 31st.
For more Information: TBA
HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDES
Cost:
Cinderella Carriage $65.00 for up to four riders, $10 each additional
Christmas Sleigh: $65.00 for up to four riders, $10 each additional
Vis a Vis (Small Carriage): $45.00 for up to four riders, $10 each additional
Wagon Rides: $5.00 per person
(infants under 1 year of age-no charge)
Hours: 5:00 pm-close Nightly November 30th-December 31st.
For more Information: 321-624-6380
SANTA PHOTOS
Cost: Depends on Package Purchased
Hours: 5:30-9:00 PM Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturday and Sunday through December 24th
6:00-9:00 PM Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays through December 24th
As the stars begin to shine over the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you’ll watch as The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle unfolds with dazzling projections of holiday spirit inspired by the words of JK Rowling.
During the show, you will see the ghosts of Hogwarts singing carols, students riding broomsticks and creating snowmen, a moment inspired by the Yule Ball and many more surprises.
Here are a few of my favorite images from the show!
If you want to make sure that you have a phenomenal viewing of The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle here are a few things to keep in mind!
The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle begins nightly at dusk until park close, to find out when dusk is in Orlando to plan your day google is accurate within a few minutes.
The show runs, weather permitting, approximately every 15 minutes. So if you are in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and it’s crazy crowded, just wait a little longer!
Speaking of waiting a little longer…the darker it is for your viewing the better, because the projections will be crisper. If you do wait for the the last show of the night, there’s the bonus of walking through a less crowded park for pictures as you are leaving the park!!!
Since the show is ON Hogwarts Castle, it is easy to find a great spot to watch them! I like to be close to the stage where the Frog Choir performs, because it is a fantastic wide shot of the castle and surroundig effects.
If you are going to be taking photos or video of the show, make sure to find a spot where the lamp posts doesn’t get in your way as they do light up at the end of the show and can cause a glare.
You can find more information about the holidays in the parks, theme park news, and travel tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Riptide Race is splashing into Aquatica Orlando in 2020 with a one-of-a-kind new park attraction that will thrill park-goers—Florida’s first-ever dueling water slide.
Starting atop a 68-foot tower, riders will be able to grab a raft and take their mark in side-by-side racing lanes at top speeds. Each raft holds a team of two, so every rider will have a partner as they plunge toward a hopeful victory. Plus, Riptide Race rafts feature low walls to ensure full view of the competition. Dueling face-to-face, racers will navigate tight loops and accelerations through indoor and outdoor sections. It’s a marathon to the finish through nearly 650 feet of splashing slide!
“Riptide Race will offer a ride experience you won’t be able to get anywhere else in Florida. Aquatica will be the first waterpark in the state to have a thrilling, and more importantly, dueling water slide,” said David Heaton, Aquatica Orlando vice president. “Riptide Race is the perfect addition to our attraction portfolio, complementing what is already one of the most family friendly waterslide lineups in Orlando.”
Riptide Race will have a height requirement of 42 inches to appeal to families with children, and the new slide will be conveniently located on the north side of the park next to Banana Beach Cook Out.
Assemble your squad and get ready to turn up the fun at Aquatica in 2020.
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks are the newest addition to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and I am really excited to share them with you!
During the fireworks show, Minnie Mouse is our host and she is inviting everyone to come together in a celebration of the magic of Christmas.
The sky above Cinderella Castle fills with fireworks, as medleys of beloved holiday songs, from “Joy to the World” and “Deck the Halls” to “Up on the House Top” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” echo throughout the Magic Kingdom.
The music of the show evokes heartfelt moments of home and family, as well as the festive fun of the season, all building to an incredible finale.
KEEP IN MIND!!!!
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks only happen ONCE during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, so if seeing them is important to you make sure that you keep an eye on the time as you are exploring the park.
Hot Take…
This show is visually stunning, but unlike the Disney Not So Spooky Spectacular during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party there is no ‘physical’ host for you to watch so if you can’t get up close and center to the castle…don’t worry! Just stand back and enjoy them from any vantage point you can.
If you are looking for a SUPER unique way to see Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, head over to new Fantasyland just outside of the Be Our Guest Restaurant and watch them fly over Beast’s castle. You won’t see the projections, but the vantage point is really neat!
I’m smitten with Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, because they are like a holiday hug from Minnie!
I 10/10 recommend!!!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
The holidays come to life at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town including ALL-NEW festive fare, heartwarming holiday shows, and merry memorable moments with fan-favorite characters each day starting November 16, 2019 through January 6, 2020.
Heartwarming Holiday Entertainment
Spirited shows and dazzling lights cover the park in holiday cheer all-season long, including an ALL-NEW show opening at Dragon Fire Grill.
NEW The Most Wonderful Time: You’re invited to a classy Christmas soirée, complete with jazzy piano solos, a live band and heart-melting vocal performances.
UPDATED The Holiday Sing-Along Train: This season, the park’s classic steam engine has a merry makeover, including more lights than ever. Join your Christmas Conductor for a live sing-along and raise your voice to spread cheer throughout the park.
Christmas on Ice: A frosty fan-favorite and the longest-running holiday show at Busch Gardens!
Elmo’s Christmas Wish: A song-filled spectacle featuring classic holiday tunes with a special Sesame Street twist.
Christmas From the Heart: A gospel-inspired celebration with a high-spirited finale.
Three Kings Journey: A musical tale of the famed trail to Bethlehem.
Carol of the Bells: Thousands of dancing Christmas lights blanket the Serengeti Overlook Restaurant and an iconic multi-story Christmas tree for a perfectly choreographed performance of “Carol of the Bells.”
Holiday Lights Reach NEW Heights
This Christmas season, park guests can take on Florida’s best thrill rides as they coast over millions of twinkling Christmas lights. The park’s newest addition, Tigris – Florida’s tallest launch coaster, is also dressed for the holidays – featuring NEW light displays inspired by the attraction. Near the Tigris realm, guests can stroll through the NEW Luminosity Lane – an immersive light tunnel synchronized to favorite holiday tunes.
Merry Memorable Moments with Festive Friends
FAN-FAVORITE Santa’s House presented by Coca-Cola®: Families are invited for a magical visit they’ll never forget with Mrs. Claus and jolly elves at Santa’s House, all nestled in the heart of Busch Gardens.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Guests can get nose to nose with the most famous reindeer around as they greet Rudolph, Clarice and Bumble from the classic Christmas tale at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland.
NEW Merry Mint Lane: Park guests will waddle with excite-mint as they get a close look at penguins and other animal ambassadors at the Animal Care Center. The area’s festive makeover includes photo opportunities with NEW Peppermint Pals, tasty treats and more!
NEW Sugar Plum Princess: ‘Tis the season for visiting royalty! Joining the Ice Princess and Poinsettia Princess, a new Sugar Plum Princess will greet guests near Sultan’s Sweets candy shop.
Festive Fare beyond Compare
From merry mealtime memories to food samples that are perfect for strolling through a winter wonderland, Christmas Town offers endless holiday flavors, including new dining experiences.
NEW Christmas Town Samplers: Throughout the Christmas Town Village, guests can stroll from cabin to cabin to sample delicious holiday dishes and drinks. From apple pie, sweet potato fries, chicken-and-waffle sandwiches to hot toddies and NEW pumpkin thrill shakes, the best way to savor and save during the holidays is with a Christmas Town Sampler.
NEW Breakfast with Elmo & Friends: Families can enjoy hugs and high fives from their favorite Sesame Street friends as they celebrate the holidays with family-friendly eats at Dragon Fire Grill. Available select dates in November and December, space is limited – reservations are encouraged.
NEW Taste of the Holidays Buffet: While savoring the beautiful view of the Serengeti Plain and Cobra’s Curse, families can feast on holiday favorites at the park’s historic Serengeti Overlook Restaurant. This new buffet menu features returning classic favorites, like our house-signature fried chicken and pumpkin cheesecake.
The gift that gives all year – a Busch Gardens Annual Pass!
Now is the best time for Holiday shoppers to give the gift of a year of park admission including Florida’s best thrill rides, including the all-new Tigris – Florida’s tallest launch coaster, with a Busch Gardens Annual Pass.
Limited-time pricing is available now for all Annual Passes, starting at $10.25 per month for everyone on the nice list, with no down payment. Guests can choose an Annual Pass with unique benefits including free parking, free Serengeti Safari, merchandise discounts and dining discounts in addition to special limited-time perks throughout the year.
In the New Year, Annual Pass members will enjoy exclusive ride time on Iron Gwazi, North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world, when it opens in spring 2020.
For complete event information, including dates, times and restaurant reservations, visit ChristmasTown.com.
Disney Plus launch day is here, and the highly anticipated streaming service is rolling out an absolutely jaw dropping catalog of movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, as well as original programming.
If you have been living under a rock…here is what you need to know about Disney Plus streaming service.
Disney Plus is available for a monthly price of $6.99 or an annual rate of $69.99 in the U.S. (pricing varies outside U.S.), and the app is available for mobile and streaming devices.
The Disney Plus app experience features:
Unlimited Downloads: Subscribers have access to unlimited downloads of shows and movies on the Disney+ app to watch offline later on up to 10 mobile or tablet devices, with no constraints on the number of times a title can be downloaded per year. Once downloaded, subscribers can watch on the go and without an internet connection. The number of titles stored at one time on a device is dependent upon the available storage space on a subscriber’s device.
High-Quality Viewing: Subscribers will enjoy an ultra-high-definition viewing experience with up to 4K Ultra HD video playback in Dolby Vision ultra-vivid imaging, HDR10, and Dolby Atmos immersive audio on supported devices for available programming.
Commercial-free Viewing: Subscribers can access unlimited viewing of Disney+ content without having to watch a single commercial.
Profile Customizations: Subscribers can set up to seven different profiles and choose an avatar tailored to their favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel or Star Wars characters, with over 200 avatars available.
Concurrent Streaming: Disney+ allows subscribers to concurrently stream video content on up to four registered devices with no up-charges.
Multiple Languages: At launch, Disney+ will offer support for English, Spanish, French and Dutch languages, including both user interface as well as audio support and/or subtitles for library content, with additional languages available for Disney+ Originals.
Accessibility: The app offers support for closed captioning, descriptive audio, and navigation assistance to help subscribers with disabilities discover and enjoy their favorite stories.
As I was preparing for today’s Disney Plus launch, I made a list of what I’m looking forward to the most…and I’m warning you now…it’s random!
The Mandalorian
For Lucasfilm’s “The Mandalorian,” executive producers Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni joined series stars Pedro Pascal, Gina Carano, Carl Weathers and Giancarlo Esposito, along with Taika Waititi, who brings the droid IG-11 to life, to premiere the teaser trailer for the first Star Wars live-action series.
Robert A. Iger, chairman and chief executive officer, The Walt Disney Company, announced that new Disney Legend Ming-Na Wen will join the cast of the series.
Set after the fall of the Empire and before the emergence of the First Order, “The Mandalorian” follows the travails of a lone gunfighter in the outer reaches of the galaxy far from the authority of the New Republic.
The Imagineering Story
The Imagineering Story is a docuseries fromfilmmaker Leslie Iwerks that pulls back the curtain on the work of Imagineers who have made real-life magic at the Disney Parks for decades. Narrated by Angela Bassett, the six-hour series chronicles the history of the Imagineers, beginning with the inception of Disneyland and tracing the development of all the of the Disney parks and all of the fantastical lands within them (yes, including Galaxy’s Edge) to the present day.
The World According to Jeff Goldblum
Jeff Goldblum, who stars in and hosts “The World According to Jeff Goldblum” from National Geographic, gives fans a peek inside the series that takes viewers inside Goldblum’s always inquisitive and highly entertaining mind.
Nothing is as it seems in this new 12-episode series…and I am all in!
Forky Asks a Question
Tony Hale, who reprises his craft project turned toy role from “Toy Story 4” in the new collection of Pixar animated shorts “Forky Asks A Question.”
In the 10 shorts, Forky explores important questions about how the world works, such as: What is love? What is time?
Noelle
In this holiday comedy, Kris Kringle’s daughter, Anna Kendrick, is full of Christmas spirit and holiday fun, but wishes she could do something “important” like her beloved brother Nick, Bill Hader, who will take over from their father this Christmas.
When Nick is about to crumble like a gingerbread cookie from all the pressure, Noelle suggests he take a break and get away…but when he doesn’t return, Noelle must find her brother and bring him back in time to save Christmas.
Herbie Goes Bananas
This movie is just the best for when you are having a down in the dumps day and you need a giggle!
Swiss Family Robinson
FUN FACT: I got in trouble when I was younger, because I watched this video tape so much it broke in the VCR. My Dad was pretty angry.
The Apple Dumpling Gang
When we would go to the local video store, this was my go-to rental.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
My favorite Star Wars Movie…fight me!!!
Recess
Can you go wrong with this cartoon series?
No.
No you cannot.
Phineas and Ferb
If your aren’t singing, you aren’t watching this series correctly.
And that’s just a fact.
I am so ready to not leave my couch, but before I really get binging I have to start where it all started…with a Mouse!
The holidays at Disney Springs are filled with fun activities, entertainment, and sweet treats…but my favorite holiday experience is the Christmas Tree Trail!
Open from 11 am until 11pm until January 5th, the Christmas Tree Trail gets you in the yuletide spirit as you explore a winter wonderland where snow falls and holiday tunes fill the air.
Make your way through a winding path lined with 23 beautifully decorated Christmas trees inspired by some of your Disney favorites including:
Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Mickey & Minnie Mouse
Beauty & the Beast
Sleeping Beauty
Aladdin
Frozen
The Princess & The Frog
The Little Mermaid
Mulan
Haunted Mansion
Snow White
Pinocchio
Toy Story
Disney Villains
Dumbo
Cinderella
Robin Hood
Star Wars
Peter Pan
Tangled
The Lion King
Mary Poppins
Fantasia
In addition to the trees, you can visit Santa’s Chalet to meet the big guy himself to let him know what’s on your wish list.
You will need to visit the kiosk at the front of the trail, near Earl of Sandwich, or near Santa’s Chalet to get a return time as there is no standard queue.
To be in the queue you will need to give a Cast Member a cell phone number, and the system will send you two text messages – one to say you are in the virtual queue & one when it is your time to go to Santa’s Chalet for your visit.
Do note that once you arrive at the Chalet, all of your party needs to be present and you will still have a 30 minute wait to see Santa.
My best tip for avoiding a long wait is to arrive at the Christmas Tree Trail about fifteen minutes early to sign up for your virtual spot in the queue.
You can find more information about the holidays in the theme parks by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
In the new issue of Disney twenty-three, available exclusively to Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, writer/director Jennifer Lee and stars Kristen Bell (voice of Anna) and Josh Gad (voice of Olaf) share a peek at the incredible journey all of the characters must take to save the kingdom of Arendelle in the new movie.
After the phenomenal success of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen in 2013, the filmmakers knew they had more stories to tell. Why does Elsa have powers? And why doesn’t Anna? These questions—and many more—will be answered when Frozen 2 opens on November 22.
The issue also features a gorgeous wrap-around cover created exclusively for D23.
Also coming to theaters soon is Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the 42-years-in-the-making thrilling climax to the Skywalker saga. Star John Boyega and director J.J. Abrams talk about reaching this cinematic apex to the nine-film saga. Plus, Boyega shares some amusing on-set stories, including what his final on-set meal was with fellow cast members Daisy Ridley and Naomi Ackie (spoiler alert: “burgers and donuts”).
And Toy Story 4’s breakout spork gets his own collection of 10 shorts on Disney+ when Forky Asks a Question debuts this month. The creative team discusses bringing the hysterically frustrating character to the streaming service and reveals some of the big-name comedy stars lending their voices to the show including Carol Burnett, Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, and Betty White (who play the hilariously named Chairol Burnett, Melephant Brooks, Carl Reinosceros, and Bitey White, respectively).
Also included in the Winter issue of Disney twenty-three:
The author of One Day at Disney reveals the stories behind some of his favorite interviews in the dazzling new book
Lea Michele takes a Hawaiian holiday for the new ABC movie Same Time, Next Christmas
A look at the new Disney+ series The Imagineering Story from award-winning documentarian Leslie Iwerks
Stars Billy Campbell and Kathy Najimy preview the new animated series The Rocketeer
The stars and creative team behind Togo—about a man, a dog, and an unbelievable adventure—talk about the real-life inspiration for the new Disney+ film
Kristen Bell enjoys an Encore!, her delightful unscripted series that reunites the casts of high school musicals for one more unforgettable performance
Stunning concept art from beloved films celebrating milestone anniversaries, including Cinderella, Fantasia, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
The cast of the new Frozen on Broadway national tour takes a bow
A peek at all of the incredible Star Wars content and experiences on the way
Every exciting announcement from D23 Expo 2019
From the Desk Of: Disney store’s Jonathan Storey
Regular features including By the Numbers, Character Analysis, D Society, and Ask Dave
Disney twenty-three,which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in mid-November.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com.
ABC officially kicks off the holidays with “The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration,“ Thursday, Nov. 28 (8-10 p.m. EST.) on ABC; followed by “Disney Channel Holiday Party at Walt Disney World“ premiering Friday, Dec. 13 (8-8:30 p.m. EST) on Disney Channel and in the DisneyNOW app. Then, the “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade” airs Christmas morning, Wednesday, Dec. 25 (10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. EST, 9:00-11:00 a.m. CST/MST/PST); airtimes vary, check listings, on ABC and on the ABC app. (Disney Parks/ABC)
This holiday season, ABC and the Disney Channel will transport the magic of Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line to viewers with three magical Disney Holiday Specials featuring star-studded performances, merry entertainment and more.
During the Disney Holiday Specials, viewers will get exclusive looks at upcoming Disney Parks attractions, including Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, opening soon at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at both Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California.
ABC officially kicks off the holidays with “The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration,“ THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28 (8:00-10:00 p.m. EST), on ABC; followed by “Disney Channel Holiday Party @ Walt Disney World,“ premiering FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 (8:00-8:30 p.m. EST), on Disney Channel and in the DisneyNOW app. As part of the annual tradition, the “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade” airs Christmas morning, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25 (10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. EST, 9:00-11:00 a.m. CST/MST/PST; airtimes vary, check listings, on ABC and on the ABC app).
“The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration” kicks off the holiday seasonThursday, November 28, from 8:00-10:00 p.m. EST, on ABC and on the ABC app.
Join hosts artist Matthew Morrison, singer-songwriter and TV host Emma Bunton, and TV host Jesse Palmer as they present the two-hour prime-time special on Thanksgiving night from Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort in California.
This magical celebration will feature celebrity musical performances among a flurry of Disney holiday entertainment. During the prime-time special, viewers will be treated to several Disney Parks sneak peeks, including a behind-the-scenes look into Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, opening in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on December 5, 2019, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida and January 17, 2020, at Disneyland Park in California.
Musical performances include the following:
GRAMMYAward-winning icons Sting and Shaggy perform duets and solo numbers from Walt Disney World Resort, including a new festive reggae version of “Silent Night (Christmas is Coming).”
GRAMMY Award-winning rock band Portugal. The Man performs “Happy Christmas” and “Merry Christmas Everybody” from Disneyland Resort.
Three-time GRAMMY Award-winning group Pentatonix will sing a cappella renditions of “Deck the Halls” and “Here Comes Santa Claus” from Walt Disney World Resort.
Singers Ingrid Michaelson and Andy Grammer perform an all-new original holiday song from Disneyland Resort.
International pop star Ally Brooke sings “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” from Walt Disney World Resort.
Singer-songwriter and TV host Emma Bunton (Baby Spice) performs “Santa Baby” from Walt Disney World Resort.
The Tony, Emmy, and two-time Golden Globe-nominated artist Matthew Morrison performs a medley from Walt Disney World Resort of “When You Wish Upon A Star” from the upcoming album “Disney Dreamin’ with Matthew Morrison” and the classic “Let it Snow.”
Acclaimed two-time Billboard Award-winning electronic violinist Lindsey Stirling pulls all the strings for “Carol of the Bells” from Walt Disney World Resort.
“Disney Channel Holiday Party @ Walt Disney World“ airs Friday, December 13, from 8:00-8:30 p.m. EST/PST, on Disney Channel and in the DisneyNOW app. Disney Channel’s “ZOMBIES 2” stars MegDonnelly and Milo Manheim will co-host this holiday party with artist Matthew Morrison, treating fans to a magical holiday celebration featuring performances from Shaggy, Pentatonix andDisney Channel stars Issac Ryan Brown (“Raven’s Home“), Ruby Rose Turner (“Coop & Cami Ask the World”), and Kylie Cantrall (“Gabby Duran & The Unsittables”) broadcast from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and aboard the majestic Disney Fantasy – part of the Disney Cruise Line fleet.
During the special, viewers will enjoy exclusive Disney Parks sneak peeks, including a first look at Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida in spring 2020 and Disneyland Park in California in the future. Viewers will also get an exclusive look at the Disney Channel Original Movie sequel “ZOMBIES 2,” premiering on Disney Channel in 2020.
Additionally, “BUNK’D” stars Scarlett Estevez and Israel Johnson will host a special family segment highlighting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program.
Musical performances include the following:
Disney Channel’s “ZOMBIES 2” star Meg Donnelly sings “Home for the Holidays” from Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney Channel stars Issac Ryan Brown (”Raven’s Home”) and Ruby Rose Turner (”Coop & Cami Ask the World”) perform “12 Days of Christmas” from Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney Channel’s “Gabby Duran & The Unsittables” star Kylie Cantrall performs “Santa Claus is Coming to Town“ aboard the Disney Fantasy.
Three-time GRAMMY Award-winning Pentatonix performs an a cappella renditionof “Here Comes Santa Claus” from Walt Disney World Resort.
Two-time GRAMMY Award-winning reggae star Shaggy sings “Jamaican Drummer Boy” from Walt Disney World Resort.
“Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade” airsWednesday, December 25, from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. EST, 9:00-11:00 a.m. CST/MST/PST; airtimes vary, check listings, on ABC and on the ABC app.
Disney’s annual Christmas celebration airs Christmas morning on ABC hosted by artist Matthew Morrison,singer-songwriter and TV host Emma Bunton, and TV host Jesse Palmer. Joining as co-hosts are ABC’s “black-ish” star Marsai Martin with Hollywood Records Artist and Disney’s “The Lion King” star JD McCrary, who voiced young Simba in the live-action film.
Presented from Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort in California, the show features the Christmas Day Parade down Main Street U.S.A., heartwarming stories and amazing celebrity performances. Among the exclusive Disney Parks sneak peeks planned for this special are Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida in spring 2020 and Disneyland Park in California in the future, plus Avengers Campus coming to Disney California Adventure Park in California in 2020.
Viewers will also get a special look at “the most magical flight on earth”: the newly opened Disney Skyliner gondola system, connecting Walt Disney World Resort guests to two Disney theme parks and four resorts, including the new Disney’s Riviera Resort, opening December 16.
Musical performances include the following:
Seventeen-time GRAMMY Award-winning Sting performs “Soul Cake” off his platinum-selling album “If On A Winter’s Night…” from Walt Disney World Resort.
Two-time GRAMMY Award-winning reggae star Shaggy sings his new Caribbean-flavored original song “Christmas with Friends” from Walt Disney World Resort
Three-time GRAMMY Award-winning a cappella group Pentatonix performs “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” from Walt Disney World Resort.
Singers Ingrid Michaelson and Grace VanderWaal sing “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” from Disneyland Resort.
GRAMMY Award-winning rock band Portugal. The Man performs “White Christmas” and “Feel it Still” from Disneyland Resort.
International pop star Ally Brooke performs “Christmas Through Your Eyes” from Walt Disney World Resort.
The cast of the new Disney+ original “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” performs a high-energy medley from Disneyland Resort.
The Disney Holiday specials are a collaboration by Disney Parks, ABC, Disney Channel and Endeavor Content, and I can’t wait to tune in!
