Author: Nate

VIDEO: Baby Hippo Delights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Only five days ago the first birth of a Nile hippopotamus took place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and now were getting a first look at some amazing video of the baby hippo.

This little calf is cute as can be and will no doubt be a star attraction. The newborn is already getting tons of attentions from around the world as guests fall in love with the newest addition to the herd.

For Disney’s animal care experts, the calf’s arrival has been a labor of love as they have spent months preparing for the first hippo birth at the park in 13 years. You can read more about the birth here.

Here is a short video update of the newborn calf with mom Tuma. The pair are doing well and staying close together as they bond. Guests may see Tuma and her adorable calf on Kilimanjaro Safaris day and night. Guests participating in Wild Africa Trek may also see the hippos.

January 19, 2018
Disney Parks is Poppin On National Popcorn Day!

Disney Parks and popcorn go together like Mickey and Minnie and today is a great day to celebrate the yumminess because it’s National Popcorn Day! As if we needed another reason to enjoy another delicious Disney snack…

Nothing beats the smell of salt and butter filling the air as you walk by a popcorn cart. Whether it’s while walking around the parks or watching fireworks glitter in the sky, popcorn is the perfect on-the-go snack to munch on while enjoying the magic of Disney Parks and Resorts.

To start off, did you know that Pop Secret is the official popcorn of Disney Parks? That’s right! You can find their delicious buttery kernels at popcorn carts located across both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. And while you may enjoy that classic buttery flavor, there’s a few places where you can even find some unique specialty popcorn – such as the Cozy Cone Motel at Cars Land in Disney California Adventure park. Here, you’ll find a delicious array of flavors such as dill pickle, buffalo ranch, white cheddar, Sriracha, pizza and garlic parmesan. You can even order it in a cool Lightning McQueen souvenir bucket!

Over at Walt Disney World Resort, Epcot is ‘poppin’ with some fun specialty popcorn offerings. If you head over towards Future World West, you’ll find a popcorn cart that sells buffalo bleu cheese, sour cream and chive, and cheddar cheese popcorn. And if you’re looking for a little sweetness to add to your salty snack, you’ll want to travel over to Canada in the World Showcase for some maple popcorn. Or if you’re in the Germany pavilion, you can stop by Karamel-Küche, presented by Werther’s Original, to try some sweet and salty kernels. There you’ll find their popular fresh-made caramel-coated popcorn, and you can even watch while it’s being made!

Another fun popcorn offering at Epcot is available for a limited time during the Epcot International Festival of the Arts. If you visit the Odyssey Festival Showplace, you’ll find a popcorn pairing flight at The Painter’s Palate Food Studio. This flight comes with three unique beers each paired with a different flavor of popcorn. The first pairing is North Coast Brewing Co. Scrimshaw Pilsner Style Beer with Bacon Barbecue Popcorn; the second is M.I.A. Beer Company Jazz IPA with Jalapeño Ranch Popcorn; and the third pairing is Central 28 Beer Company Miss Mary Brown Oatmeal Brown Ale with Buffalo Bleu Cheese Popcorn.

In addition to these fun specialty popcorn offerings, you’ll also find Main Street Popcorn Company pre-packaged popcorn at select merchandise locations at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. This popcorn comes in traditional flavors like caramel, kettle corn, cheddar and confetti. But you’ll also find some more unique options like Sriracha kettle corn, parmesan garlic, kettle corn with red alaea salt, truffle, maple bacon, and one of the most popular ones – churro!

So whether you prefer that classic buttery popcorn or those fun flavors, you’ll always have something to snack on for National Popcorn Day!

January 19, 2018
Official Synopsis For Solo: A Star Wars Story Revealed

After a rough start and months of production we finally have details on the plot of Solo: A Star Wars Story. Lucasfilm revealed the official synopsis for the film, Tuesday, offering some new details on the upcoming film. Check it out below:

Board the Millennium Falcon and journey to a galaxy far, far away in Solo: A Star Wars Story, an all-new adventure with the most beloved scoundrel in the galaxy. Through a series of daring escapades deep within a dark and dangerous criminal underworld, Han Solo meets his mighty future copilot Chewbacca and encounters the notorious gambler Lando Calrissian, in a journey that will set the course of one of the Star Wars saga’s most unlikely heroes.

Usually by this point we would have some publicity shots of the movie’s star Alden Ehrenreich as young Han Solo or at the very least a teaser or a trailer. So it is real nice to finally get the lowdown on the plot.

We now know that Solo won’t be laughing it up with the fuzzball when the film begins. Instead it seems that audiences will get to witness the first meeting between the smuggler and Chewbacca, who we know end up being best pals.

While not much else is known about the film, director Ron Howard has kept everyone up to date on the production status of Solo: A Star Wars Story through social media. The film wrapped up filming back in October.

#Solo that’s a wrap folks. Thanx to a remarkable cast and crew for an amazing experience pic.twitter.com/trsZRVedHm

— Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) October 19, 2017

Solo: A Star Wars Story is slated for release on May 25, 2018.

January 18, 2018
Rock The Dots With Minnie Mouse Send-Off Celebration at Disney Parks

Minnie Mouse is finally getting the recognition she deserves as she will soon be honored with her very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. To celebrate, Disney Springs in Florida and Downtown Disney District in California will once again host a special event to honor Minnie’s iconic polka dot infused style where you too can ‘Rock the Dots’!

Taking place the day prior to National Polka Dot Day, on Sunday, January 21, guests will be invited to participate in a variety of fun offerings where you can rock your dots!

Minnie will receive the star during a special unveiling ceremony on Monday, January 22 – but before she leaves on her grand Hollywood adventure, we’re going to give her a special send-off live from Disney’s Hollywood Studios here in Florida this Sunday, January 21 at 1 p.m. ET! Minnie hopes to see as many guests as possible dressed in her signature red, white and black polka dots at the park that day!

Commemorative buttons will be given out at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort and Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort while supplies last.

Here is what you can expect when you rock the dots:

IN FLORIDA:
Guests can discover over fifteen retail offers from Jan 18 – Jan 22, including savings at American Threads, Basin, Arribas Brothers, JOHNNY WAS, Luxury of Time by Diamonds International, Sperry, Sugarboo & Co. and Volcom. At Alex and Ani, the first 100 guests each day will receive a free gift along with daily in-store surprises. At Coach, a free gift with any purchase is in the bag for all event guests. M.A.C. Cosmetics is also participating with a complimentary “mini” Minnie-inspired demo. A handful of food and beverage locations (Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza, Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea, Paddlefish, D-Luxe Burger, The Ganachery and Sprinkles) will feature discounts and/or Minnie-themed products as well, so bring your appetite, too.

On January 21, the main event showcases a DJ Dance Party in the heart of Town Center from 1 – 6 p.m. where Minnie Mouse will make frequent appearances. I’ve been told to expect a few wardrobe changes, and can’t wait to see which of her many signature looks she’ll sport. Keep an eye out for a photo backdrop sponsored by PANDORA Jewelry; Disney PhotoPass photographers will be on site to capture the moment with fun props and frames to ensure you strike your most stylish pose. If you want to start the party early, Paddlefish will offer a “polka dot brunch” from 12 – 3 p.m. that infuses a bit of pampering to the meal: complimentary hand massages from L’Occitane and make-up applications from Sephora are on the menu.

IN CALIFORNIA:
Guests at Downtown Disney District in California can also look forward to Minnie Mouse-inspired activations throughout the day on Sunday, January 21. Shoppers will be treated to polka dot and event specific product, including exclusive Minnie Rocks the Dots product at World of Disney, Minnie Mouse-inspired makeovers at Sephora, and polka dot TOMS shoes at Curl Surf. For foodies, adorable Minnie Mouse specialty apples have been created, the popular polka dot milkshake makes a return visit at Uva Bar, and fun polka dot pepperoni pizzas are available at Wetzel’s Pretzels. That’s just a small sampling of what’s in store. You’ll want to pick up a brochure starting January 18, 2018 for full discount and product details.

A DJ Dance Party will keep thing rockin’ in Downtown Disney District on January 21 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage. As in Florida, PANDORA Jewelry has also sponsored a photo opportunity with Disney PhotoPass photographers on site to capture the moment with fun props and frames. Plus, you never know who may stop by!

Can’t make it to the send-off in person? Tune in for a special #DisneyParksLIVE stream of this milestone in Disney history. And share your Minnie photos with us on Twitter using the hashtag #DisneyParksLIVE.

January 18, 2018
Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Showcase Coming To Disney World

Have you always dreamed of having your fairytale wedding at Walt Disney World? If so you won’t want to miss Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Showcase.

Whether you are recently engaged or looking to celebrate your anniversary with a vow renewal, this is the perfect event to help you get started on planning your happily ever after.

This intimate event, takes place February 3, 2018 and gives you an exclusive look into the Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings planning process and will provide you with inspiration for your big day!

You will be given the opportunity to meet with our dedicated team of Disney Wedding Consultants as well as Disney Floral, Photography and more! From learning about our three wedding collections and grabbing a glimpse of Cinderella’s Coach to sampling both savory and sweet treats, you will have a front row seat into the one-of-a-kind planning experience only Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings can offer.

In addition to the Showcase, all attendees are invited to tour the newly reimagined Disney’s Wedding Pavilion, Disney’s most popular venue among couples. You will also have the chance to stop-in Franck’s Bridal Studio – the place where all the planning happens.

Plus, they have two additional experiences available to attendees. End the night with a Dessert Party while watching the night sky come alive with the fireworks show Happily Ever After, or choose to take part in a culinary adventure by joining the chefs of Disney’s Contemporary Resort in the Catering Kitchen as you create an elegant five-course food and wine dinner.

As a special gift to Disney Vacation Club Members only, bride and groom attendees will receive one (1) Mickey Mouse or Minnie Mouse Ear Hat. Simply bring your Disney Vacation Club Membership Card to the event in order to receive the Ear Hat.

Register here for the Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Showcase!

January 17, 2018
Live Action ‘Christopher Robin’ Movie Synopsis Released By Disney

It seems every Disney movie is getting the live action treatment these days and Disney’s “Winnie the Pooh” series is no exception, with its live action remake, simply titled “Christopher Robin”, less than six months away.

Finding Neverland director Marc Forster is set to helm the film starring Ewan McGregor and Disney has just released the synopsis for the upcoming live-action adaptation.

“In the heartwarming live action adventure “Disney’s Christopher Robin,” the young boy who loved embarking on adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with a band of spirited and lovable stuffed animals, has grown up and lost his way. Now it is up to his childhood friends to venture into our world and help Christopher Robin remember the loving and playful boy who is still inside.”

The story follows Robin, the little boy from the “Winnie the Pooh” series, who is now all-grown-up and lost all sense of imagination. Pooh and his friends reenter Robin’s life to help him gain that back.

In addition to McGregor the film has an all-star cast including Haley Atwell and Mark Gatiss. Fans will be excited to know that Jim Cummings will be reprising his role as Winnie the Pooh’s voice. He is joined by the voices of Brad Garrett, Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Nick Mohammed and Oliver Ford Davies.

Walt Disney Studios has many live actions films in the pipeline including, A Wrinkle in Time, Mary Poppins Returns and The Nutcracker and the Four Realms. Christopher Robin is set to hit theaters on August 3.

January 17, 2018
Purple Day For Epilepsy Awareness Around The World

Purple Day is the largest epilepsy awareness initiative celebrated around the globe and with the World Showcase being in Epcot, it makes for the perfect place to host the event.

Even coordinators have been collaborating with The Epilepsy Association of Central Florida to create a magical day for families to gather, share stories and form lasting bonds as Walt Disney World Resort invites you to travel around the globe at Epcot World Showcase. Purple Day will kickoff with breakfast at the Disney’s Contemporary Resort and end the evening by lighting the Spaceship Earth at Epcot PURPLE!

Purple Day is an international grassroots effort dedicated to increasing awareness about epilepsy worldwide. On March 26th annually, people in countries around the world are invited to wear purple and host events in support of epilepsy awareness.

This event will be held on March 25, 2018. You can register here if you would like to join in on the fun!

Partial day tickets are available as well as a discount for multi-day tickets. They also offer scholarship opportunities for persons with epilepsy and their families.

MEET MICKEY AND CASSIDY IN STYLE!
Everyone wear purple! Dress up in your favorite ‘purple’ Disney gear!

EVENT SCHEDULE:
9:30 am :Meet everyone at the Contemporary Resort’s Fantasia J – Q Ballroom for…

• Continental Breakfast; An Epcot Globe Cake Replica- 9:30 am – 11:30 am
• Guest Check-In and t-shirt/gift package pickup – 9:30 – 11:30 am
• Photo Opportunity with our very own “Purple Day Princess Cassidy Megan (Purple Day Founder) – 9:30 am -noon
• Photo Opportunity with Mickey and Minnie: 10:30 am – 11:30 am
• Special Entertainment Program – 9:30 am – 10:30 am

12:00 Noon until Dusk (Sunset is estimated to be 7:40 pm on 3/25/18)

After breakfast, enjoy your day at the parks and gather at dusk around Spaceship Earth at Epcot as they turn it PURPLE for a group photo to share around the world!

January 17, 2018
A Cashless Disney World Could Be The Way Of The Future
Disney is always a leader when it comes to new technology and once again they are using it to help make guests experiences as simple as possible. Walt Disney World will begin testing a pilot program at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, which will allow for all electronic payments for services and purchases. A cashless Disney is something they feel will be a convenience for guests.

The pilot begins February, 12 2018 and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House will be the first place at the resort to go cashless. Disney has already begun advising guests with resort or dining reservations of the upcoming change.

Disney has been a leader when it comes to electronic payments implementing MagicBands in 2013 that you can use for purchasing and becoming one of the first to accept Apple Pay in 2014. A cashless Disney World in the near future is not out of the realm of possibility.

If you are used to carrying cash here is a list of the forms of payment the resort will be accepting.
- MagicBands
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Disney Gift Cards
- Disney Rewards Redemption Cards
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
- Google Pay
Although the resort will be cashless during the pilot period, you can still use cash for tips and the like and guests staying at the resort can still use cash to add to their room charge capabilities.

It’s not know exactly how long the test will run, but you can be sure that if the results are positive, we will be seeing this rolled out across the entire resort one day.
January 16, 2018
New Baby Hippo Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is celebrating the birth of a new Nile hippopotamus. The baby hippo is the first hippo born at the park in 13 years.

Born at approximately 10 p.m. on Saturday night, the calf is staying close to mom Tuma. The animal care team is giving Tuma and her calf plenty of room to nurse and bond, so the calf’s gender and weight may not be known for some time. Typically, a newborn calf weighs between 60 and 110 pounds.

This birth comes just six months after two Sumatran tiger cubs were the first of their kind to be born at the park.

This birth marks another success for the dedicated and highly trained team of Disney animal care experts. Tuma and her mate Henry were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan, which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Nile hippopotamus is a vulnerable species with a declining population. This birth is an important contribution to the worldwide conservation and understanding of these amazing creatures. Disney hopes guests will see this adorable hippo calf and be inspired to take action to protect them in the wild.

You may see Tuma and her calf on Kilimanjaro Safaris and also during the Wild Africa Trek experience.

January 16, 2018
Refillable Soap Dispensers Showing Up at More Disney World Resorts

The soap opera created over the installation of refillable soap dispensers in Walt Disney World Resorts continues in what looks to be an effort to “clean” up the budget…

One of the best parts of staying on Disney World property is all the extra toiletries, like soap and shampoo, that you get to take home. Well, that seems to be changing and Disney is moving ahead with its plan to replace the soap and shampoo within its resorts with refillable dispensers.

Everyone’s favorite “free” souvenir looks like it could be a thing of the past and online reports say Pop Century will be seeing them installed in rooms as early as this week.

Port Orleans Riverside was said have them installed back in August of last year and we knew it would only be a matter of time, before we started to see them show up at other resorts.

The dispensers hold conditioner, shampoo, and body wash, but many guests feel it’s unsanitary and are not happy with the idea of having to share community hygiene products. It’s unclear if this is still a testing phase or if a full resort-wide rollout is expect soon. No word on if this will be rolled out beyond value and moderate resorts, but if you are paying deluxe resort prices the extra little soaps should be included if you ask me.

January 16, 2018