An Evening at Markham’s – Tables in Wonderland Exclusive

golden_oak

An Evening at Markham’s – Tables in Wonderland Exclusive
Thursday, May 1st, 2014, 6:00pm
$195.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

 

You are cordially invited to join us at the über exclusive, Markham’s restaurant, located at Disney’s Golden Oak Club, for an unparalleled culinary experience highlighting not only the esteemed talents of Chef Christian Rumpler and Chef Michael Gonsalves, but also select culinary personalities from across Walt Disney World® Resort.  Sommeliers Melissa Schreiber and Wayne Rigsby have paired exceptional beverages with the 8-course menu for a true epicurean evening.

The event is limited to 30 guests and is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.  Park admission not required.

Since Golden Oak is a private residential community, guests attending this event will be provided with security clearance.  Upon reservation confirmation, information will be sent providing additional details about your Golden Oak experience.

Also, please note that Walt Disney World® Resort transportation to Golden Oak is not available and, as such, personal transportation is required.

 

Menu

In keeping with our desire to leave some things to the imagination, the menu below is meant to provide only a glimpse into the evening you will enjoy as our guest.  We hope to deliver on the promise of surprising you with the creations prepared by our special guest chefs, providing an experience you will not soon forget.

 

Reception-Chef-Cítricos

Wild-caught Octopus, Focaccia Crostini, Preserved Lemon Chicken

 

Appetizer-Chef-California Grill

Pork Belly

 

1st Course-Chef-Walt Disney World Global Food & Beverage

Lobster

 

2nd Course Chef-Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

Duck Breast

 

Intermezzo-Pastry Chef-Walt Disney World Resort

Cucumber Sorbet

 

Entrée-Chef-Disney’s Golden Oak

Bison Loin

 

Cheese Course-Chef-Victoria & Albert’s

Stilton Cheesecake

 

Dessert-Pastry Chef-Walt Disney World Resort

Opera Cake

 

For reservations, please visit the following website www.disneyurl.com/TIWGoldenOak for self-booking and instant confirmation.  The website will go live and begin taking reservations on Monday, April  7, 2014 at 10:00am. 

 

Please have the following information ready:

  • Tables in Wonderland Ticket Number starting with the “W” (i.e. if you purchased your Membership at Epcot®  your card number would begin WEC)
  • First and Last Name of everyone in your party (maximum is Party of 4)
  • Home address
  • Phone number
  • Credit Card Number
  • Billing Address of the Credit Card (Your credit card will be charged at the time of booking, and you will receive an immediate confirmation email.)
  • Personal Email Address (Please use a personal email address as many work email addresses think the confirmation email is spam.)
  • Special Dietary Needs (if any)

 

Guest Policies

  • The event is limited to 30 Guests, and is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.
  • You must show your valid Tables in Wonderland ticket to gain entrance into the event.
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Give Kids The World O-Town MacDown

Give Kids The World

Give Kids the World is joining the O-Town MacDown as a presenting sponsor and invite the public to come and sample the cheesiest mac-n-cheese in our area!

The O-Town MacDown is a delicious “food fight” cooking competition that features professional chefs and restaurants as well as home cooks and non-profit organizations who will duke it out to the very end to be named Orlando’s Mac-n-Cheese Champion. A no-holds-barred competition where chefs face off and throw down their finest skills to see who will be the last chef standing.

Prizes will be awarded in various categories, and the event will include live entertainment, celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, a performance by Tony Brent from the Outta Control Dinner Show, a kids’ fun zone including face painting, bounce houses and macaroni art station, theme park character meet-and-greets and vendor booths.

Attendance and participation benefits Give Kids The World Village, a 70-acre, nonprofit resort in Central Florida that provides weeklong, cost-free vacations to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

This year’s O-Town MacDown is going to be held at the Orange County Convention Center Hall D2, West Concourse on Saturday, August 23, 2014 from 11a.m. – 4p.m.

 Tickets are on sale now, and here is the pricing:

  • $10 for Adults (includes all the mac-n-cheese you can eat!)
  • $5 for Kids (includes all the mac-n-cheese you can eat and the Kids Zone is free!)
  • $35 for VIP tickets (includes unlimited mac-n-cheese, premium seating in the VIP area, free O-Town MacDown t-shirt and a free beverage)
  • $15 for Adults and $10 for Kids at the door

For more information visit their official site.

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Tables in Wonderland Salutes Florida Strawberry Season

tiw_wave

The Wave…of American Flavors has an exciting evening planned for the March Tables in Wonderland Discovery Dinner.  This month’s Discovery Dinner will be celebrating the Central Florida Strawberry Season.  Our Farmer/Chef dinner will feature Lott Farms, located just west of Plant City, Florida.  Mike and Sandy Lott started their farm in 1979 on rented land. In 1983 purchased and built their 50 acre family farm.  They have lived on and farmed this land with their children and grandchildren ever since. Mike’s great strawberries are sold under the Classic label through C&D Produce Distributors.

Tables in Wonderland Discovery Dinner

The Wave… of American Flavors
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Thursday, March 20, 2014
6:30 p.m. Reception; 7:00 p.m. Dinner
Dress Code – Casual Evening Attire
$110 per person, includes tax and gratuity

For reservations, please visit the following website www.disneyurl.com/thewavemarch for self-booking and instant confirmation.  The website will go live and begin taking reservations on February 24, 2014 at 10:00am.

Reception

Strawberry Tequila Shooter with Lime Caviar
Strawberry Sweet Tea Braised Short Rib Slider
Kumamato Oysters in Strawberry Gelee with Micro Wasabi
MARTIN RAY CHARDONNAY, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

First Course

U-12 Scallop Crudo with Strawberries Five Ways and McGregor Farms Opal Basil
MARTIN RAY SAUVIGNON BLANC, NAPA VALLEY

Second Course

Venison Tenderloin with Strawberry Honey, Roasted Chestnut and Pink Peppercorn Powder and Strawberry Basil Lavash
MARTIN RAY PINOT NOIR, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

Pasta Course

Braised Wild Boar with Strawberry Infused Pappardelle and a Foraged
Chanterelle Cream Sauce
MARTIN RAY CABERNET SAUVIGNON, SONOMA VALLEY

Main Course

Duck Leg Confit with Celery Root Purée, Royal Trumpet Mushrooms,
Glazed Cippolini Onions and a Strawberry Reduction
MARTIN RAY MERLOT, NAPA VALLEY

Cheese Course

Echo Mountain Goat, Pleasant Ridge Reserve, Rogue River Blue
Pistachio Powder, Marcona Almond Praline, Quince Paste
MARTIN RAY RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY

Dessert

Strawberry Crepe Cones with Citrus Mascarpone Mousse
Strawberry Sherbet with warm roasted Strawberry Compote
Chocolate and Balsamic Strawberry Sauce
MARTIN RAY RESERVE CHARDONNAY, SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS

 

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Jiko – The Cooking Place Presents The Wines of Paul Cluver!

tiw_jiko

 

Jiko – The Cooking Place is pleased to present…

The Wines of Paul Cluver, featuring Jacqueline Harris
Thursday, March 6, 2014
6:00 pm Reception / 6:30 pm Dinner
$160, plus tax and gratuity
Dress Code – Business Casual Evening Attire
Meet in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Lobby, Sunset Lounge

For reservations please contact Victoria Thompson at Victoria.j.thompson@disney.com. This event is limited to 36 guests and requires a credit card guarantee. There is a 3 day cancellation policy.

Paul Cluver is a family-owned, family-run wine business located in the cool-climate Elgin Valley, approximately 70km south-east of Cape Town. The property has been in ownership of the Cluver Family since 1896. Recognised as pioneers of wine in the area, the focus is on producing elegant wines that are expressive of the terroir. The wine business forms part of larger holistic farming business called ‘De Rust Estate’. In addition to the vineyards and cellar, there are apple and pear orchards, a Hereford stud and eco-tourism activities, including amphitheatre concerts, on the farm. This 2000+ hectare estate forms part of the UNESCO world heritage site, the Kogelberg Biosphere. Half of the estate has been set aside for conservation into perpetuity.

Reception

Za’atar Crusted Goat Cheese, Ghee Brik Pillow, and Zough
Seared Scallop, Crisp Cassava, Berbere Crème Fraîche, and Kaluga Caviar
“Beef Seswaa” Osso Bucco, Braised Oxtail “Marrow” in a Mealie Pap “Bone”
Paul Cluver Encounter Riesling, Elgin

Dinner

Preserved Citrus Roasted Duck Breast, Morel Mushrooms, Ramps, and English Pea Nage
Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc, Elgin

Grilled Lobster Potato Salad, Rock Prawn Crunch, Avocado Bisque, and Tikka Masala Air
Paul Cluver Gewürztraminer, Elgin

Herb Roasted Lamb Chop, Early Spring Greens, Chick Pea Croquets, and Coconut-Mint Jam
Paul Cluver Pinot Noir, Elgin

Harissa-crusted Butter Fish, Fiddle Head Ferns, Baby Corn, Delta Asparagus, and Green Garlic Emulsion
Paul Cluver Chardonnay, Elgin

Chocolate Pot de Crème with Almond Crème and Raspberries
Paul Cluver Late Harvest Riesling, Elgin

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Tables in Wonderland Splitsville Dine Around

Splitsville Logo Family 2012 v5

The Splitsville Luxury Lanes™ Dine Around
At Splitsville Luxury Lanes™, Downtown Disney® West Side
Thursday, February 20, 2014 6:00-8:00pm
$90.00 per person, including tax and gratuity

ROLL IN and ROCK OUT, Tables in Wonderland! Please join us as we showcase a new spin on bowling! Tables in Wonderland Members are invited to enjoy a unique, interactive dine around experience at  Splitsville Luxury Lanes ™! This two-story, 50,000 square foot entertainment destination is the perfect backdrop to a unique culinary experience, complete with bowling!

Take in Splitsville’s upscale and nostalgic atmosphere as you taste some of the house specialties, including Fresh Rolled Sushi, Hand-Tossed Pizza, and Made-to-Order Salads! Enjoy your dinner with specially selected paired beverages – a true foodie’s favorite kind of Spare! Each party will be assigned a Bowling Team, so be sure to come ready for some friendly and fun competition!

We hope you are as excited as we are for this special event! Further details are listed below.

Menu Offerings:

Made-to-Order Rice Bowl Station
Grilled Chicken Breast, Sushi Rice, Stir-fried Vegetables, and Tataki Sauce
Paired with Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio

Sushi Station
A variety of fresh, hand rolled Sushi
Paired with Sake

Pizza/Slider Station
Cheeseburger Sliders:  Caramelized Onion, Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, Pickle & Special Slider Sauce
Filet Sliders: Thick slices of Beef Tenderloin topped with an Onion Ring and Horseradish Cream
Margherita Pizza: Mozzarella, Roma Tomatoes, Basil, and Tomato Sauce on a Honey Wheat Crust
Meat Lovers Pizza: Italian Sausage, Pepperoni, Bacon and Seasoned Ground Beef
Paired with a selection of Craft Beers

Made-to-Order Salad Station
A chef created Salad with your choice of Lettuce, Fresh Vegetables, Cheeses and Dressings

Dessert Table
Fresh Baked Brownies
Chef’s Carrot Cake- Fresh Baked with Cream Cheese Frosting

Reservations will be available beginning at 10:00am, on Friday, January 31, 2014

Price: $90.00, includes tax, gratuity, food & beverage, bowling, and a pair of socks!

To book, please call 407-938-PINS(7467) extension 104 or email kingpin@splitsvillelanes.com

When booking, please have the following information ready:

  • Tables in Wonderland Ticket Number (this number starts with a Park-Code (i.e. if you purchased your membership at Epcot, it will state WEC)
  • First/Last Name and Shoe Size of Everyone in your Party (maximum per party is 10)
  • Home Address
  • Phone Number
  • Personal Email Address
  • Special Dietary Needs, if any

Guest Policies:
This event is limited to 80 Guests, and is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland Members You must show your valid Tables in Wonderland Membership Card to gain entrance into the event

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Taking the Plunge at Gaylord Palms Ice!

Take the PLUNGE at Gaylord Palms ICE!

Gaylord Palms ICE
Be inducted into the Orlando Polar Bear Club at Polar Bear Plunge 2013 presented by Orlando Solar Bears

Sometimes there are events that happen, and you say maybe next year…well that is what is happening for me soon! I will be wearing by bathing suit to ‘Take the Plunge’ down an ICE! slide at the Gaylord Palms Resort on Sunday, December 8th for a great cause!

The Orlando Polar Bear Plunge 2013 is presented by Orlando Solar Bears takes place one day only, and $5 from every adult ticket sold for this special event will benefit Greater Orlando Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Members of famed Polar Bear Clubs around the world gather to jump into freezing-cold, winter-chilled water wearing just a swimsuit. Here in sunny Florida, residents can participate in this event – with a twist. Jaunt through the 9-degree ICE! featuring Frosty the Snowman™ attraction in a bikini or board shorts and plummet down four, two-story ice slides!

The adrenaline rush officially begins at 8 a.m., but the party jumps off at 7 a.m. to welcome guests as official members of the Orlando Polar Bear Club. Take a picture and meet and greet with Shades, Orlando Solar Bears’ official mascot. Prepare those joints by dancing and participating in DJ games, be part of a group photo, and earn a commemorative certificate.

Orlando Polar Bears unite once a year for this early morning charity event, this year benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Take advantage of this offer to make history and someone’s day.

The special Orlando Polar Bear Plunge ticket is $18.99 + tax, and includes the “after-glow” warm-up reception with hot cocoa and pastries along with the commemorative certificate. Also, participants will have a chance to go through ICE! again later that morning, fully clothed, to better enjoy the artistry at a slower (and warmer) pace. Purchase tickets online in advance at www.OrlandoPolarBearClub.com.

While it sounds crazy, and I can already hear my Mom asking me that very question, where else will I be able to do something like this???

I hope that some of you will read this, and decide to join me!!!

Things to know before you ‘Plunge’ at Gaylord Palms ICE!

What to wear
To get the full Orlando Polar Bear Club experience, inductees are encouraged to walk through the ICE! attraction in their swimsuits, but summer clothing such as shorts and a T-shirt can be worn instead. Swimsuits must be in good taste, and close-toed shoes are required for entry. Along with wearing swimsuits, guests are strongly encouraged to wear hats, gloves, warm socks and other cold-weather accessories.

Safety
This is not a contest, so participants should expect to spend only a few minutes inside ICE! After all, only real polar bears are expected to hang out in 9 degrees!

Freeze the moment
Don’t leave home without a camera! Guests will want to freeze this moment for sure! It is also possible that media will be present to cover the event, so smile for the cameras! You could even end up on Facebook!

ICE! featuring Frosty the Snowman is open daily now through Jan. 5, 2014, including holidays. To purchase tickets and to see a full schedule of activities and events, go to www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com.

For more information and to purchase tickets to an Orlando Solar Bears professional ECHL ice hockey game, visit www.orlandosolarbearshockey.com.

Gaylord Palms Resort is located five minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746.

Be sure to “Like” Gaylord Palms on Facebook and Twitter to get the most up-to-date information and special deals and promotions!

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A first timer’s look into Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Castle

Friday was the kick off night for the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! I had always read about this night, and always wanted to go but each year put it off thinking it was maybe just for kids. Well last month we were lucky enough to go to the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and you really didnt need kids to enjoy that one, you just may need to BE a big kid! Which was perfect for me! So we figured now was the best time to go to the Christmas Party and see what that one was all about!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Snow on Main Street

As soon as you get your wristband and enter the park, it strikes you how they go all out for Christmas, the decor was just incredible. It might only be November on the calander but in my heart it was already late December! The lights, the wreathes, the music, the smells, everything screams holidays as soon as you enter into the park! I was very excited to see that on Main Street it was even snowing, in Florida, snowing! it was perfect and really got me into the Christmas Spirit!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party hotchoc

The first place we headed was to the free Hot Chocolate and Cookies, you can look these up on the park map and also look out for the giant inflatable candy cane that shows you where they are being served. The hot chocolate place we first went to was by the Pirates Of The Caribbean ride, and was extremely hot. Luckily this made me remove the lid and I noticed marshmallows on the top, which I wish they had stated on the signs as being a vegetarian I cannot eat these. Fortunately everyone else in our party could, so after that I just made sure I requested mine without.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party jingle

Next we headed over to the Jungle Cruise, which, for the first time ever, had been converted into the Jingle Cruise featuring a holiday overlay. The ride was all Christmas themed from the names on the boats to the decorations on the props and the jokes told by the skippers. During the ride there are not many changes to the actual scenes, so guests who have not ridden the Jungle Cruise before would still be able to enjoy this classic ride with only a few Christmas themed jokes thrown in.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party minnie

By this time we thought we should try get a space for Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, as it was a sold out night so we knew it was going to be busy. We ended up not really finding a great place to stand, but luckily we could still see over people enough to enjoy all the floats. It was really fun seeing all the characters in holiday attire, but my favorite part in the whole parade was without a doubt the toy soldiers…

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party toysoldiers

I just loved their little routines, their attire and they seemed to have so much personality and flair! Plus you knew once you saw them that Santa was going to be next as he is featured on the last float.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party santa

Once the parade ended we walked over to the Hub to get in place for the Celebrate The Magic show on Cinderella’s Castle, which I had seen some of this before but I had never stood in the middle for it with such a fantastic view before!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party waltcastle

The show was everything it promised to be..magical! I loved every moment of it, from Tinkerbell flying out, to Walt’s face right there on the castle, the effects were just so beautiful!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party gingercastle

The Christmas part at the end was really cool to see, my favorite part was this photo above, where they made the castle look like a giant gingerbread castle! It looked so real!

After the show we decided to stay in the same spot as it would be a great place for the fireworks! I am lucky enough to see the fireworks every day from home, but I rarely get to see them from right on front of the castle like this, its truly a wonderful experience.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party castlewow

I loved how they mixed the fireworks together with the Celebrate The Magic projections too, especially when it made it look like the fireworks were being set off right in front of the castle, when really it was behind!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party castleworks

A great tip if you want to feel part of the show, is if you purchase the new Glow With The Show ears, the ears actually light up in synch with the fireworks and castle show, as can be seen in this photo above! You simply turn them on and they all coordinate, so it really adds another element to the show to enjoy as you get to participate with it.

httpv://youtu.be/9yN5SligZY0

Once we had enjoyed the fireworks we were all pretty tired so we decided on a loop around on the TTA and another stop for hot chocolate and cookies. I came home pretty exhausted but it was very worth it, this was my first time doing this party and it sure won’t be my last!

Tickets are on sale now and do require separate admission to get in. It is running already on select nights up until December 20th, but start looking now as they do tend to sell out some nights.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party popcorn

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Inaugural Edible Orlando Field to Feast Dinner

 

Inaugural Edible Orlando Field to Feast Dinner

Benefitting the Kid’s Café program of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida

Starring Walt Disney World® Resort Chefs

4-7 p.m. Sunday, October 27

Long & Scott Farms • Zellwood, Florida

FEATURING

Victoria & Albert’s

Chef Scott Hunnel

Sommelier Rebecca Lewis

Lake Meadow Chicken Sausage with Zellwood Corn Succotash

 

California Grill

Chef Brian Piasecki

Sommelier Michael Scheifler

Spice-crusted Local Calico Scallops with Zellwood Pumpkin Ravioli, Toasted Pumpkin Seed Vinaigrette, Baby Sage, Buttered Brussel Sprouts, and Pumpkin Dust Brittle

 

Flying Fish Cafe

Chef Tim Keating

Sommelier Stig Jacobsen

Asian-inspired Uncle Matt’s Citrus-marinated Rock Shrimp and Local Calico Bay Scallop “Cocktail” with Salad of MacGregor Farms Greens, Herbs, Epcot Cucumber, and

Bhut Jolokia-Kaffir Lime Vinaigrette

 

The Wave . . . of American Flavors

Chef Frank Brough

Sommelier Damaris Jimenez

Locally-sourced Sweet Potato Agnolotti with Bourbon-Maple Pork Belly, Liquid Caramel Corn, and Vanilla Powder

 

Epcot® Events

Chef Leonard Thomson

Sommelier Olaronké Olatunji

Suwannee Farms Florida Fresh Cab Beef Tenderloin over Balsamic Charred Onion Bread Pudding topped with Wine Reduction and served with Duck Fat Fries and Zellwood Sweet Corn Gelato

Florida Local at Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival 

Chef Jens Dahlmann

Sommelier Tom Kovacs

Pasture Prime Mangalitsa Pork Arepa with Long & Scott Corn Esquites and Cahaba Farms Micro Cilantro

 

Cítricos

Chef Phil Ponticelli

Sommelier Keith Gimbel

Florida Pink Shrimp with Sunny Meadow Farms Egg Pasta with Sarasota Black Sturgeon Caviar

 

Disney Desserts 

Pastry Chef Stefan Riemer

Sommelier Vicky Thompson

Squash Beignets served with Habañero-Corn Ice Cream with Madeira Glaze and Cocoa Dust

Chocolate Pot de Crème with Bosc Pears, and Rye Bread Tuile

TICKETS

$175 each / $325 per couple
Tickets available via EdibleOrlando.com

To directly purchase tickets:
http://www.eventbrite.com/event/8169514237/es2/?rank=49

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Merida Coronation At The Magic Kingdom

This morning the Magic Kingdom played host to the Merida, from Disney/Pixar Brave,  Coronation making her Disney’s 11th Princess .This was an especially exciting event, because this was the first time Disney held a Coronation of a new Princess publicly.

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

Cinderella Castle was all decked out in special banners for the Coronation, and it was even more beautiful than usual!

Merida Coronation

For this exciting event, 2 time Olympic Gold Medal Winner Gabby Douglas and her mother, Natalie, served as emcee, and spoke about their special relationship.

“I admire Merida for being determined and courageous as these are qualities that have had a big impact on my own life and helped me achieve my goals as an athlete,” said Gabby Douglas, gymnastics gold medalist.  “And like Merida, I have a strong relationship with my mom, whose support and belief in me has helped me recognize my own inner princess qualities. It’s really special for us to be here and share in Merida’s celebration, especially on Mother’s Day weekend.”

Merida Coronation

Then it was time for the Merida Coronation!

Merida Coronation

Merida was led to the forecourt of Cinderella Castle on the back of her trusty friend Angus, and followed by banners, a troop of Scottish dancers, and an authentic pipe and drum band. It was amazing!

Merida Coronation

After the processional, Merida was joined on the castle stage by the members of the Royal Disney Princess Court which includes Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Jasmine, Belle, Mulan, Pocahontas, Tiana, and Rapunzel for the reading of the Royal Proclamation. It is always a treat to see them all in one place!

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

To me, the most special part of Merida’s Coronation was that Queen Elinor had the honor of placing the tiara on Merida’s head making her Disney’s 11th Princess! The celebration of Mother and Daughter was such a touching way to start Mother’s Day Weekend at Walt Disney World! This was the first time that Queen Elinor has appeared at Walt Disney World! I am not going to even try to say that I didn’t cry.

“As a Disney Princess, Merida sets an admirable example for all, being brave, strong, passionate, determined and confident,” said Katherine Sarafian, “Brave’s” producer. “When Queen Elinor placed the crown on Merida’s head, it signified a moment of deep connection, as a mother recognized the spirit, heart and true personality of her daughter. It’s moments like these that encapsulate what is special about being a princess, but also resonate with mothers across the world.”

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

What an amazing & fun way to spend the morning!!!

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

Merida Coronation

I hope that you enjoy our pictures of the Merida Coronation!

Merida Coronation
Merida Coronation
Merida Coronation

UPDATE!

** We’ve posted several additional pictures on our Facebook Page! Take a peek! **
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Pull A Bi-Coastal All-Nighter With Your Monsters University Friends

We are currently attending the Monsterous Summer Media Preview and will bringing you more news, but we wanted to share what we found out last night in an eye-opening presentation!

Bi-Coastal All-Nighter

“Monsters University” Star Mike Wazowski To Announce All-Night Parties for Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resorts

Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort will kick off a Monstrous Summer by keeping three theme parks open for 24 hours nonstop on Memorial Day Weekend, the traditional start of the family travel season.

The Magic Kingdom Park in Florida and Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park in California will stay open from 6 a.m., May 24 to 6 a.m., May 25, 2013, local time* marking the beginning of a summer of fun inspired by the upcoming Disney•Pixar comedy adventure Monsters University.

The oversized fun of a 24-hour Disney park All-Nighter called for an equally epic announcement, and the huge sphere of Spaceship Earth was transformed from Disney Parks icon to DisneyPixar “Eye-con,” becoming a 180-foot-tall, fully animated Mike Wazowski, the loveable green-bodied, one-eyed monster who joins best pal James P. Sullivan (“Sulley”) in the prequel toMonsters, Inc., this summer as college students with hopes of becoming Scarers.

Walt Disney World President George Kalogridis joined Mike to share the news of the first-ever, three-park All-Nighter.

“This summer, Disney Parks are bursting with a monstrous lineup of new thrills, shows and happenings,” said Kalogridis. “Guests can start Memorial Day Weekend with a 24-hour-marathon of memory-making as three Parks stay open all day and all night to celebrate the bi-coastal kick-off of a Monstrous Summer at Disney Parks.”

Mike and Sulley will take a break from collegiate life and their Scare studies at Monsters University to host the All-Nighter, dropping in to scare up some school spirit. Guests will scream and giggle with delight at the lineup of thrills and entertainment that promises to make this a day and night to be remembered for a lifetime.

In Florida, the Magic Kingdom will feature a Monsters University theme where Mike and Sulley will be the Grand Marshals of the “Celebrate a Dream Come True” day parade – complete with pomp and circumstance – and make appearances in Tomorrowland. Guests also will find extra entertainment throughout the day and night, including characters in their pajamas in Town Square during the late night and early morning, and late-night dance parties in and around the courtyard of Cinderella Castle.

In California, guests can party the night away at both parks with special entertainment, including a Monsters University“TLT Monstrous” Dance Club and Star Wars characters in Tomorrowland, and late-night Character Pajama Party in Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland. The new Fantasy

Faire Royal Theatre at Disneyland will become a Royal Dance Hall late at night with a live band and dancing, and guests of Disney California Adventure will find Monstrous photo opportunities with new Monsters University “Dorms” in Hollywood Land and a new Monsters University float leading the Pixar Play Parade.

All three parks will feature limited-edition specialty merchandise and food and beverage offerings plus other surprises throughout the entire day.

The All-Nighter is just the beginning of the fun. In California, vacationers at “The Happiest Place on Earth” will see how Disneyland Resort “Just Got Happier” with great new attractions such as the “Mickey and the Magical Map” stage show. It is also the first summer for guests to experience the new Fantasy Faire with Disney Princesses at Disneyland, and they continue to enjoy the exciting new offerings of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure.

Walt Disney World Monstrous Summer includes new offerings and popular favorites in all four parks. This is the first summer for New Fantasyland, which has received rave reviews from guests since its December grand opening as the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history. Guests also will find new, engaging offerings for the entire family throughout the Walt Disney World Resort this summer such as an interactive “Pirates Adventure” game at Magic Kingdom, the newly re-imagined Test Track at Epcot, the new Disney Junior show, featuring Sofia The First and Doc McStuffins, as new additions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, plus Wilderness Explorers at Disney’s Animal Kingdom that will bring families together in exciting new ways.

ABOUT “MONSTERS UNIVERSITY”

Ever since college-bound Mike Wazowski (voice of Billy Crystal) was a little monster, he has dreamed of becoming a Scarer—and he knows better than anyone that the best Scarers come from Monsters University (MU). But during his first semester at MU, Mike’s plans are derailed when he crosses paths with hotshot James P. Sullivan, “Sulley” (voice of John Goodman), a natural-born Scarer.  The pair’s out-of-control competitive spirit gets them both kicked out of the University’s elite Scare Program. To make matters worse, they realize they will have to work together, along with an odd bunch of misfit monsters, if they ever hope to make things right. Screaming with laughter and oozing with heart, Disney•Pixar’s “Monsters University” is directed by Dan Scanlon (“Cars,” “Mater and the Ghostlight,” “Tracy”), produced by Kori Rae (“Up,” “The Incredibles,” “Monsters, Inc.”) and features music from future Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and award-winning composer Randy Newman (“Monsters, Inc.,” “Toy Story 3″). For more information, like us at facebook.com/PixarMonstersUniversity, and follow us on twitter.com/disneypixar. The film opens in U.S. theaters on June 21, 2013, and will be shown in 3D in select theaters. For more information, check out disney.com/MonstersU.

For more information on Monstrous Summer, check out http://www.disneyparks.com/MonstrousSummer

 

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Tables In Wonderland – Fantasmic! Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Fantasmic! Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

 

Tables in Wonderland Special Event

Fantasmic! Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Saturday, May 11, 2013   8:30pm – 9:30pm

Price:  $68.72 per person – tax and gratuity included.

 

Experience the fun, fancy and fears of everybody’s favorite heroic mouse as he battles forces that turn his vibrant dreams into a vivid nightmare. Mickey faces off against Disney villains in a lavish spectacular of dancing water, dramatic music, breathtaking animation, lasers, fireworks, and surprises! You are invited to a private Tables in Wonderland Dessert Party! Come enjoy VIP seating at the premier nighttime spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , Fantasmic!, while you sample platters of exquisitely prepared delectable desserts.

 

Offerings include:

 

Savory Station

Artisan Cheeses, Dried Fruits, Nuts, and Sliced Baguettes

 

Sampler Station

Mickey Ear Brownie Bon Bons

Balsamic Macerated Strawberries, Mascarpone and Lemon Biscotti Crumbles

Lemon Pound Cake with Raspberries and Country Cream

Butter Cupcake with Maple Butter Cream and Bacon Brittle

Mickey Peanut Butter Tarts

 

Action Station 

Warm Peach Crumble served in Mason Jar topped with Liquid Nitrogen Infused Limoncello Moonshine

Basil Lemonade, Coffees and Teas

Beer, Wine, and Cordials

For reservations, please visit the following website www.disneyurl.com/TIWFantasmicDessertParty for self-booking and instant confirmation.  The website will go live and begin taking reservations on Monday, April 22nd at 10:00am.

The event is limited to 100 Guests, and is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members. You must show your valid Tables in Wonderland ticket to gain entrance into the event.

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D23 Fanniversary Celebration Returns In 2013: Tickets Available February 5th

D23 Fanniversary Celebration

I am so excited that D23: The Official Fan Club  has announced that they are bringing the Fanniversary Celebration to several cities to help celebrate Disney milestones and landmark anniversaries in 2013! I had the chance to attend the D23 Fanniversary in Orlando last year, and it was a great opportunity to spend some time with my fellow Disney Geeks!!!

Each special 90 minute show will be hosted by a Disney archivist and D23 Team member, and will highlight the rich behind-the-scenes stories of these magical moments through rarely or never-before-seen film footage, concept art, photography, and exclusive interviews with many of your favorite Disney Legends and luminaries.

D23 will lead guests on a journey through dozens of unforgettable Disney moments that have delighted generations of Disney fans, including beloved movies like Peter Pan, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and the first Pirates of the Caribbean film; classic characters like Mickey Mouse and Chip ‘n’ Dale; favorite attractions and entertainment spectaculars at Disney parks such as Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, Horizons, and Mickey’s Toontown; the openings of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Tokyo Disneyland, the launch of The Disney Channel; the first voyage of Disney Cruise Line; and the momentous founding of The Walt Disney Company in, of course, 1923.
Following each presentation, guests will have the opportunity to briefly mix and mingle with presenters and fellow Disney fans. Plus, we will have a special treasure from the Walt Disney Archives available on display!

D23′s Disney Fanniversary Celebration events will be held in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Newark, Orlando, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C so we can “Unlock the Magic” of Disney and D23 from coast to coast!

Los Angeles
Date: Friday, March 1
Location: The Studio Theatre, The Walt Disney Studios (500 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, California)
Time: 5 and 8 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
San Diego
Date: Saturday, March 2
Location: San Diego MOPA-Joan and Irwin Jacobs Theater (1649 El Prado, San Diego, California)
Time: 2 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
Phoenix
Date: Sunday, March 3
Location: Phoenix Center for the Arts (1202 North 3rd Street, Phoenix, Arizona)
Time: 2:30 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
Orlando
Date: Friday, March 8
Location: Atlantic Dance Hall, Walt Disney’s BoardWalk Resort, Walt Disney World
Time: 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
Chicago
Date: Sunday, March 10
Location: Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago (220 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
Time: 2 and 5 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
Washington, D.C.
Date: Thursday, March 21
Location: U.S. Navy Memorial (701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.)
Time: 7 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
Newark
Date: Saturday, March 23
Location: Newark Museum, Billy Johnson Auditorium (49 Washington Street, Newark, New Jersey)
Time: 2:30 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
Boston
Date: Sunday, March 24
Location: Boston Theatre 1 at the Revere Hotel (200 Stuart St., Boston, Massachusetts)
Time: 2 and 5 p.m. Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
Seattle
Date: Friday, April 5
Location: Seattle Public Library in the Microsoft Auditorium on level 1 (1000 Fourth Ave, Seattle, WA; Access to the building for the event will be through the 4th Avenue entrance.)
Time: 7 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)
San Francisco
Date: Sunday, April 7
Location: Walt Disney Family Museum, (104 Montgomery Street, The Presidio of San Francisco, California)
Time: 2 and 5 p.m. (Please do not arrive more than 30 minutes prior to the show.)

D23 Fanniversary Celebration
I love the D23 Fanniversary Celebration 2012 Pennant we got last year!!!

Tickets will be available February 5 at 10 a.m. PST for D23 Members to purchase online. The remaining General Admission tickets will be available February 12 at 10 a.m. PST if available.

Tickets are $21 for D23 Members (and their guest). Tickets are $35 for general admission when/if they become available. It’s important to note that parking is not included with the price of the ticket.

As always it’s important to keep in mind that D23 event tickets tend to go quickly, so make sure that you’re online quickly if you’d like to attend one of the D23 Fanniversary Celebrations!

And now for the D23 Fanniversary Celebration Fine Print and Details you want to make sure you know…

  • Available only to D23 Members in good standing. Members may reserve a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest.
  • There are a limited number of tickets available. D23 Members will be required to provide their membership number when reserving tickets.
  • Tickets may be picked up only with a valid photo ID AND D23 MEMBERSHIP CARD. D23 Members who do not bring their membership card may not be admitted to the event.
  • General admission tickets will be available only if additional seats remain. Ticketed Members who do not attend the event forfeit their place as well as all experiences, benefits, and gifts associated with the event.
  • If you wish to request for sign language interpreting services for this event, please submit your request to d23.guestservices@disneystore.com at least two weeks prior to the event date.
  • All D23 Special Events are subject to change without notice.
  • There are no cancellations or refunds, tickets are not transferrable.

I hope that you’re able to make it to one of the D23 Fanniversary Celebrations, and if you’re at the Orlando Fanniversary Celebration make sure to give me a shout!!!

D23

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club celebrates the remarkable past, present, and future of Disney, taking its name from 1923, the year Walt Disney founded his world-famous company. D23 brings its members a host of exclusive benefits, including a weekly e-mail newsletter; an array of discounts and special offers; and exclusive, member-only special events.

Disney fans can join the world’s only Official Disney Fan Club by visiting www.D23.com or select shops at the Disneyland® Resort, the Walt Disney World® Resort and www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow “DisneyD23” on TwitterYouTube and Facebook.

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Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando

Halloween Spooktacular

Unlike most theme parks Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando, offers their Halloween activities, entertainment, and fun at no additional charge to admission making it a really great value and experience for everyone to enjoy!

Halloween Spooktacular has something for everyone in your family!

Halloween Spooktacular
Halloween Spooktacular Map

There is a HUGE Trick-or-Treat Trail that winds its way around over half of the park, and is jam packed full of candy stops, entertainment, and unique Halloween characters! There are two entrances to the trail, which opens at noon, and you receive a really nice paper Trick-or-Treating bag to continue with their dedication to use bags that are more eco-friendly! We prefer to start at the entrance closer to the Dolphin Nursery, because it is really festive and filled with bubbles which Zoe cannot resist!!! Another great part of the Halloween Spooktacular event is that if you follow the Trick-or-Treat trail you will eventually hit every highlight of the event!

Halloween Spooktacular
This band appeared along the Trick-or-Treat Trail

Penelope’s Party Zone is where we tend to spend a large majority of our time at Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando! This area, in Bayside Stadium, is where you can find a DJ and characters getting down, a free craft activity, storytelling, drawing areas for younger children, and most importantly a shady spot for parents and kids to take a break from the fun for a bit! I really think that Zoe would rather spend her time dancing than getting candy!

Halloween Spooktacular
Storytelling at Penelope’s Party Zone

There is also Sesame Street Countdown to Halloween which is a really fun show that plays only on Halloween Spooktacular days. This is a fun musical production about Halloween starring all of your favorite characters. It is a favorite part of Spooktacular in our family.

Check out the all-new Penelope’s Photacular where you can show off your most Halloween Spooktacular costume, and it might make a celebrity guest appearance before the Shamu Rocks show in a virtual costume parade! Located on the Bayside Trick-or-Treat Trail between Bayside Stadium and Wild Arctic this fun photo stop also includes some great SeaWorld Characters!!! The virtual costume parade before Shamu Rocks will start 30 minutes prior to the show, so make sure that you get to the stadium early so you don’t miss any of the fun.

Halloween Spooktacular
There are a lot of fun opportunities to meet your favorite SeaWorld Characters!

While all of the above events are free, there are a few ways that you can enhance your day at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular. The Count Von Count Spooktacular Breakfast at the Seafire Inn is a wonderful way to start your Spooktacular day!!! At this buffet breakfast you will get to meet your favorite Sesame Street characters and watch a show. You want to make sure that you get there at least 15 minutes early, because there is a special character who greets you, a 5×7 photo is included in the price of the buffet for your family as a keepsake! The cost for the Count Von Count Spooktacular Breakfast is $24.99 for ages 10 and up and $14.99 for children, and as always at SeaWorld Orlando Passholder discounts are available!

Halloween Spooktacular
Your special greeter at the Count Von Count Spooktacular Breakfast

Also at Penelope’s Party Zone, there is a create your own apple and rice crispy treat stand. There are tons of topping and decorations for your edible masterpiece, and it is $5 ($4.50 for Passholders) which is a great value.

Halloween Spooktacular

Along the Trick-or-Treat Trail there are also a lot of fun games that cost a little extra, but every player wins a prize so you really can’t go wrong! Zoe won a pink octopus that she is very proud of.

If you haven’t had the chance to experience Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld, what are you waiting for??? This is the last weekend so you better hurry!!!

Make sure you “Like” us on Facebook, and while you’re there check out more of our Halloween Spooktacular Photos!

Halloween Spooktacular

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Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Videos

Today I thought it would be fun to share some of our videos from this year’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!

Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade

See your favorite Disney Characters in a special Halloween Parade that steps off in Frontierland! Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party has my most favorite parade of all times! If you watch from Main Street USA, like we did for this video, you will also get to see the Creepa Crew and have a great view of the Headless Horseman!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPlW0LHKIs0

Happy HalloWishes

The night sky lights up above Cinderella Castle with a Halloween fireworks spectacular. This is a DEFINITE Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party must do for any and everyone!!! Don’t forget to take in the 180 degree fireworks! Everybody scream!!!!!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7mlQDBSJTU

Villains’ Dance Mix & Mingle

Your favorite Disney Villains take center stage in front of Cinderella Castle. If you love Hyperspace Hoopla, you are really going to enjoy this Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party favorite!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xg5XWarw9v0

Also, don’t forget to check out our Facebook page for tons of great Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party pictures!!!

 

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