Tag Archives: Disney World

Nov 24 2016

Once Upon A Time Projection Show At Magic Kingdom

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For years one of my favorite parts about a night at Magic Kingdom was the incredible projection show on Cinderella Castle – “Celebrate The Magic”. Recently Disney has replaced this classic with a brand new version called “Once Upon A Time”. Here’s everything you need to know, courtesy of Disney:

once-upon-a-time-2Classic Disney stories light up a fairy-tale castle as the projection show “Once Upon a Time” begins beaming its magic onto Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park.

The new show uses projection-mapping technology to produce a dazzling three-dimensional effect that fits every nook and contour of the Castle, from its base to the tips of its towers and turrets.

The result: Cinderella Castle opens like a storybook and becomes living art, the canvas for a kaleidoscopic and eye-filling feast of fantasy.

Coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the timeless animated classic, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the new projection show is narrated by Mrs. Potts who shares “once upon a time” bedtime stories with Chip.

once-upon-a-time-1Projected scenes let guests relive some of their favorite Disney moments. They’ll fly with Peter Pan above the rooftops of London to Never Land, grow to a towering size with Alice in Wonderland and float along with Winnie the Pooh as he rises to the top of the Castle while hanging from a colorful balloon. These are just some of the enchanting tales that come to life in “Once Upon a Time.”

The awe-inspiring show culminates with classic scenes from Beauty and the Beast – the Beast waltzing with his beloved Belle, his duel with Gaston, and finally his transformation back to the Prince. As Mrs. Potts and Chip conclude their bedtime story, the show moves to its grand finale including appearances by characters from some of Disney’s most beloved animated tales. Fireworks bursting above the Castle add to the magic.

“Once Upon a Time” replaces the “Celebrate the Magic” Castle projection show that ended its four-year run on November 3.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Have you seen Once Upon A Time yet? What did you think?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Nov 23 2016

Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration At Disney Springs

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It’s that time again when Disney goes all out getting into the holiday spirit. This year is no exception and Disney has given us another new and exciting experience to see during the holiday season. Here’s everything you need to know about “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” at Disney Springs courtesy of Disney:

This holiday season, guests at Disney Springs – the shopping, dining and entertainment district of Walt Disney World Resort – will get a chance to see Disney and Intel exploring remarkable new technology as hundreds of lighted show drones take to the nighttime sky in “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration.” The twice-nightly experience begins November 20 on the West Side of Disney Springs.

The first-of-its-kind light show featuring 300 Intel® Shooting StarTM show drones invites guests to gaze skyward and make a special wish this holiday season. The synchronized choreography of the new Intel Shooting Star drones is set to a specially orchestrated arrangement of classic holiday music. In the nostalgic and stirring medley, Disney Springs guests can listen for a few bars of classic Disney melodies.

starbright-holidays-2“We are thrilled to share an experience as innovative and unique as Disney Springs,” said Keith Bradford, Vice President of Disney Springs. “‘Starbright Holidays’ is a wonderful surprise and delight moment for guests as they enjoy an evening of world-class shopping, dining and entertainment here at Disney Springs.”

Added Jon Snoddy, Studio Executive with Walt Disney Imagineering R&D, “At Disney, we are always looking for innovative ways to tell stories and create unexpected experiences. We’re excited to invite guests to watch as we explore the possibilities of this remarkable new technology.”

“Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” marks the first time in the United States 300 show drones have flown at one time. At 280g, the Intel Shooting Star drone weighs less than a volleyball, and features built-in LED lights that can create more than four billion color combinations.

“We are excited to work with Walt Disney Imagineering to bring a fresh and innovative approach to its world-renowned light shows,” said Senior Vice President and General Manager of Intel’s New Technology Group, Josh Walden. “Together, we worked to tackle the new frontier of entertainment, picturing the sky as our canvas, and flying lights as ink.”

“Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration”  runs November 20 – January 8 at 7:00pm and 8:30pm, and joins other holiday enhancements at Disney Springs, including a brand-new Christmas Tree Trail, special seasonal entertainment, meet and greets with Santa, and festive decor throughout all four neighborhoods – Town Center, The Landing, West Side and Marketplace.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Have you seen Starbright Holidays yet? What did you think?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Nov 22 2016

Disney Parks Holiday Specials

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If you can’t be in a Disney Park this year for Thanksgiving or Christmas, be sure to tune in for the three Disney Parks’ specials airing during the holiday season. They promise to be the most memorable yet! Here’s the scoop courtesy of Disney:

Disney kicks off the holidays with three musical specials originating from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California. The shows will be presented on Disney|ABC Television Group platforms, including ABC Television Network, Disney Channel, the ABC and Disney Channel apps and VOD, among other branded digital platforms. The holiday specials will include performances by some of the world’s most popular recording artists, celebrity hosts, Disney character appearances and heartwarming wish-come-true moments for three lucky families from across the country.

holiday-specials-2016-4“The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration,” will air THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24 (8:00–10:00 p.m. EST), on the ABC Television Network. “Disney Parks Presents: A Descendants Magical Holiday Celebration” will air FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25 (8:00–9:00 p.m. EST), on Disney Channel. “The Disney Parks’ Magical Christmas Celebration” will air SUNDAY DECEMBER 25 (10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. EST), on the ABC Television Network.

Previously announced performers include Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks, Kelly Clarkson, Sofia Carson, Jordan Fisher, Forever in Your Mind, China Anne McClain, Dove Cameron, Cameron Boyce and Booboo Stewart.

The holiday specials are a collaboration by Disney Parks, Disney|ABC Television Group and IMG.

The multi-platform programming schedule is:

THANKSGIVING – THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24

holiday-specials-2016-2“The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration” premieres on the ABC Television Network (8:00–10:00 p.m. EST) and on the ABC app. Join Emmy Award-winners Julianne and Derek Hough as they host the magical two-hour special from the Walt Disney World Resort. They join “Descendants 2” star Sofia Carson to kick off the holiday season in a way only Disney can, showcasing extraordinary music performances, special appearances and some unforgettable Disney magic moments.

Musical performances include:

  • Boyz II Men, joined by JoJo, will sing a holiday favorite from the steps of Cinderella Castle
  • Alessia Cara will sing “How Far I’ll Go” from Disney’s animated feature film, “Moana” (in theaters November 23) for the very first time on broadcast television.
  • Kelly Clarkson will perform “Underneath the Tree” and “Stronger.”
  • Flo Rida performs two of his smash hits.
  • From Disney’s Hollywood Studios, OneRepublic performs one of their hit songs.
  • Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks will perform “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” “Ugly Christmas Sweater” and “Marshmallow World,” all from their new album, “Christmas Together,” out November 11 (Pearl Records, Inc.).

Additional performances to be announced.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25

holiday-specials-2016-3“Disney Parks Presents: A Descendants Magical Holiday Celebration” premieres on Disney Channel (8:00–9:00 p.m. EST) and on the Disney Channel app and Disney Channel VOD, beginning at 12:01 a.m. PST. The special will be available on-demand and will be featured in encore presentations on Disney Channel through Tuesday, December 20.

Musical performances include:

  • “Jolly to the Core,” performed by Dove Cameron, Cameron Boyce, Sofia Carson and Booboo Stewart.
  • “Silent Night,” performed by Hollywood Records and Republic Records recording artist Sofia Carson.
  • Kelly Clarkson performing a song from her 2013 holiday album “Wrapped in Red.”
  • “Descendants 2” star China Anne McClain performing “This Christmas.”
  • Forever In Your Mind performing “Celebrate.”
  • Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks perform a holiday duet from their new album, “Christmas Together,” out November 11 (Pearl Records, Inc.).

CHRISTMAS – SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

holiday-specials-2016-6“The Disney Parks’ Magical Christmas Celebration” will air on the ABC Television Network (10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EST; airtimes vary, check listings) and on the ABC and Disney Channel apps. This Christmas, Disney Parks celebrate the joy of the holiday season as hosts Julianne and Derek Hough take viewers on a magical ride down Main Street and beyond. The Christmas Day celebration will be bigger and brighter than ever before, bringing together the beloved Christmas day parade, magical musical performances, surprise celebrity guests and heart-warming family stories to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

Musical performances include:

  • Alessia Cara will perform a holiday favorite.
  • Sofia Carson performs “Silent Night” featuring an alternate musical arrangement from her performance on Disney Channel and also hosts from backstage.
  • Kelly Clarkson performing “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”
  • In front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World, Gavin DeGraw sings a Christmas classic.
  • “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” performed by Jordan Fisher who will also make his Broadway debut in “Hamilton” on November 22.
  • OneRepublic performs from Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
  • Solo and duet performances by Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks from their new album, “Christmas Together,” out November 11 (Pearl Records, Inc.).

Additional performances to be announced.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World for the holidays?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Do you watch the Disney Parks holiday specials every year?
Please leave a comment; we would love to hear from you!

Nov 21 2016

Black Friday Shopping And More At Disney Springs

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If you’ll be in Walt Disney World this weekend and plan to do some holiday shopping, be sure to head over to Disney Springs for some incredible Black Friday deals! Here’s everything you need to know courtesy of Disney:

With the emergence of Disney Springs as a world-class shopping destination, merchants throughout the retail, dining and entertainment district are taking part in that great American tradition of holiday shopping: Black Friday on November 25, 2016.

In fact, the fun is being extended to a second day, Saturday, November 26.

More than 60 stores are planning special Black Friday sales and promotions.  And children of all ages will have a chance to meet Santa as early as 8:00am.

Disney Springs Christmas 5While supplies last, World of Disney and other Marketplace favorites will offer special savings on popular items, such as Vera Bradley “Midnight with Mickey” hipster bags for $24.99 at Marketplace Co-Op.  Star Wars fans will find Storm Trooper Action Figures for $14.99 at Star Wars Galactic Outpost, and a holiday wreath with lights is available at Disney’s Days of Christmas for $16.99.

Other deals include savings of up to 40 percent on select merchandise at Curl by Sammy Duval, a free bangle with $125 purchase at Pandora Jewelry, 40 percent off all merchandise, excluding “rare finds,” at Lucky Brand and up to 60 percent off original prices of select styles at APEX by Sunglass Hut.

All stores will open at 8am – two hours earlier than normal – on Black Friday, November 25, and Saturday, November 26.  Adding to the festivities, the Disney Springs waterfront promenade will feature bars offering mimosas for purchase, while Bloody Marys will be available for purchase at nearby Dockside Margaritas.

For a full list of participating locations, please click here.

Beyond the Black Friday specials offered by merchants, a whole world of entertainment awaits shoppers at Disney Springs to make for a most unique day of fun for the entire family. Here’s a dozen diversions for shoppers to Disney Springs:

  1. Disney Springs Christmas TreeTake a break and go bowling — but not just any bowling. Splitsville Luxury Lanes elevates bowling to a new level with upscale food and live music. Located in the heart of West Side.
  2. Rise high above the panorama of Disney Springs aboard the Characters in Flight Balloon, operated by Aerophile. The world’s largest tethered helium balloon rises 400 feet for breathtaking views. West Side.
  3. Hit the pause button from shopping and relax in comfort by taking in a box office hit at AMC Movies at Disney Springs. Includes the Fork & Screen Dine-In Theatre. West Side.
  4. On-the-go guests can grab a quick bite or shop merchandise at the many kiosks strung around Disney Springs.
  5. Where else can families have a theme park experience while making the shopping rounds?  DisneyQuest Interactive Theme Park lets guests choose their own high-tech adventure among five floors of gaming awesomeness – from classic arcade favorites to immersive virtual worlds. West Side.
  6. Disney Springs Christmas 2Head for Paradiso 37, a waterfront emporium for dining, dancing, live Latin music and a tequila menu boasting more than 75 choices. The Landing.
  7. Take the kiddies for a spin on a charming Venetian carousel, lavishly hand-painted and crafted by skilled artisans in Italy. Marketplace.
  8. Unwind lakeside at the open-air Waterside Stage where special events, activities and live performances – from full concerts to a DJ Kids Dance Party – take place every day and night. The Landing.
  9. Take a break at Raglan Road, an Irish pub, over a cold pint, hearty cuisine, live music and high-stepping Irish Dancers. The Landing.
  10. Remember the slogan “The Pause that Refreshes”?  From the rooftop bar of the Coca-Cola Store shoppers can pause, enjoy classic and exotic flavors while they take in the panorama of Disney Springs. Town Center.
  11. How about a lake cruise to add spice to your shopping day? Vintage American Amphicars and romantic Italian water taxis depart regularly from The BOATHOUSE, an upscale dining location on Lake Buena Vista. The Landing.
  12. Put on a happy face – or any other face. At the Face Painting by Enjoy Your Face booth, you can choose from a whimsical or animal-inspired design or have a face-painting professional create a custom look.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be shopping at Disney Springs this holiday season?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Nov 20 2016

Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up November 20, 2016

Here’s the Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up for November 20, 2016!

Latest Disney World Enthusiast Articles

Animal Kingdom Lodge SavannahTip Of The Week

If you would like the chance to view some exotic animals without the cost or lines of Animal Kingdom, visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge. You can stroll around the resort while enjoying spectacular up-close views of the savannahs that are home to over 30 different animal species, including giraffes, zebras, and flamingos. Pick up a Wildlife Field Guide from the lobby concierge to help you identify the beautiful creatures.

Looking for more tips like this? Click here!

Autograph BookDisney Did You Know

If you stacked the number of standard autograph books sold annually, it would match the height of 200 Cinderella Castles. Add the Princess-style autograph books and, end to end, the books would reach 88 miles into space.

Walt Disney 3Walt’s Words

“Whether you say you can’t or you can, you’re right.”

Tomorrowland PinDisney World Enthusiast Giveaway

Look for a brand new giveaway beginning Friday, December 2, 2016! Good luck, everyone!

Behind The Magic Podcast

Be sure to catch up on this seasons’s episodes when Zeek, Rachel, and I discuss Disney news, rumors, and so much more.

For more details about our podcast and to listen, please click here!

Featured Advertiser

BitbeltHave you heard of this incredible gadget – Bitbelt? If you aren’t familiar, this handy creation secures your MagicBand so that it doesn’t accidentally become lost. Anyone that carries a child, a backpack, or wears a jacket at Disney World knows how easily a MagicBand can become unclasped. That’s where this little beauty comes in! Simply place a Bitbelt on your MagicBand and save yourself the trouble of having to search for a lost band or take the time to get a replacement. Bitbelts come in a dozen different colors and in two sizes – adult and junior. They are only $4.99 each plus they offer discounted pricing when you purchase multiple Bitbelts in one order. And if you think Bitbelts are great for MagicBands, they are also available for your fitness trackers. Never lose a pricey Fitbit again! For more information about Bitbelt, please click here!

501 WaysFeatured Book

The difference between an average and an outstanding Walt Disney World trip is in the details. Kristi Fredericks helps make your dream vacation a reality with her numerous tips and tricks to save money, time, and sanity while at the happiest place on earth in her new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation”. For more information, to read an excerpt, or to purchase, please click here.

Considering A Disney World Vacation

Book Your Disney VacationJennifer Hardy, a Disney Vacation Planner with Destinations in Florida, is the official travel partner of Disney World Enthusiast. She can help you book your next Disney vacation whether it is to Disney World, Disneyland, or aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Currently Jennifer has some incredible deals for discounted travel to Walt Disney World. For more information about Jennifer’s amazing and absolutely free services or to get a free no-obligation quote, please click here!

You’re Invited

Next Disney VacationJennifer Hardy, from Destinations in Florida, and I have teamed up to create a brand new Facebook Group called Next Disney Vacation! It is the perfect place to talk about your next Disney vacation, voice your opinions, ask your questions, get them answered, and share the magic. Whether it’s Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, or the Disney Cruise Line, Jennifer and I are ready to help. Everyday you’ll find posts, photos, trivia, tips, and more that we find all throughout the Disney Universe. If you’re counting the days until your next Disney vacation or just dreaming of one, we would love to have you join in the fun and conversation! Please click here to be a part of our group!

dwe logo small size white bkgdComing Up Next Week

Next week I’ll have some planning and dining information plus all of the latest Disney World news!

Have a wonderful week!