Author: Nate

Ridley Scott Could Direct Disney’s ‘Merlin Saga’ Adaptation

Ridley Scott has certainly had a busy 2017 and it looks like this year is not going to be any different for the 80-year-old director. Scott is in negotiations to direct Disney’s ‘Merlin Saga,’ a fantasy film adapted from T.A. Barron’s book series of the same name.

Coming off one of the busiest years in his career, Scott’s most recent credits include last May’s “Alien” movie, “Covenant,” and he just recently released the J. Paul Getty story “All the Money in the World,” which he began shooting shortly after “Covenant.”

Based on The Merlin Saga, the series followed the origin story of a young Merlin who would go on to become the mentor of the classic literary character King Arthur. It chronicles “the complete story of Merlin’s life and times spanning 12 exciting novels.

Disney currently has two films based on the Merlin character in development. The studio is also working on a live-action “Sword in the Stone.” Scott has also met with Disney about this project.

The “Alien Covenant” director’s production company Scott Free is also in negotiations to produce the upcoming big-screen adaptation of “The Merlin Saga”, with Tendo Nagenda and Foster Driver overseeing the project.

It’s still unclear on which book the upcoming film adaptation will be based. If the deal goes through, Scott will serve behind the lens with a script provided by Philippa Boyens (“The Lord of the Rings” trilogy).

January 6, 2018
5 Reasons to Visit Disneyland Resort in 2018

It’s a new year and Disneyland Resort in California has new experiences and returning favorites coming to its parks in 2018. There are so many reason to visit Disneyland, but here are five really exciting ones.

Star Wars Experiences – Star Tours—The Adventures Continue at Disneyland park now features a thrilling new adventure inspired Star Wars: The Last Jedi as well as a visit to Batuu, the remote outpost guests will discover when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Disneyland in 2019. In addition, guests can live the Star Wars adventure throughout Tomorrowland at Star Wars Launch Bay, Star Wars: Path of the Jedi and “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple.”

Lunar New Year Festival – Celebrate the Year of the Dog as the Lunar New Year Festival expands to 24 days at Disney California Adventure park, January 26 to February 18. Guests will enjoy multicultural performances, fun-filled activities, beautiful décor, delicious cuisine and themed merchandise. Highlights include the heartwarming “Hurry Home—Lunar New Year Celebration” prior to “World of Color,” “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession,” a Lucky Wishing Wall and three Asian marketplaces offering delightful foods inspired by Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival – The popular culinary festival expands to six weeks – March 2 to April 12. Guests will explore California-inspired cuisine and beverages, tastings and entertainment, plus presentations and demonstrations with celebrity chefs such as Robert Irvine and Alexandra Guarnaschelli.

Pixar Fest – Beginning April 13, we’ll celebrate favorite Pixar stories during the first-ever Pixar Fest, featuring “Together Forever—A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” fireworks and Pixar Play Parade (featuring three new story elements) at Disneyland park as well as fan-favorite “Paint the Night” parade at Disney California Adventure park.

Pixar Pier – This summer, during Pixar Fest, this permanent transformation of the Paradise Pier area will open, featuring four Pixar-themed neighborhoods, the new Incredicoaster (a transformed California Screamin’), a new Pixar-themed lounge and grill and LOTSO more!

January 5, 2018
BREAKING: Circle of Life Attraction To Close Permanently at Epcot

The Circle of Life, at the Land Pavilion in Epcot’s Future World, is closing it doors permanently. This circle is complete for this long running attraction which has been educating guests about the environment for more than two decades.

On Thursday, it was announced that the attraction, which opened on January 21, 1995 will make its last run on February 3, 2018.

Shortly after the closure, the space will be used to host the student workshops and other events which are currently housed in the trailer between Germany and Italy. The trailer’s closure could possibly make way for the new rumored Brazil Pavillion in World Showcase.

The Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable is a 20-minute widescreen film about conservation, with color commentary from the stars of Walt Disney’s The Lion King. Guests laugh and learn as Simba teaches Timon and Pumbaa an important lesson about the environment.

The Circle of Life features a magical mix of animation and live action. Presented in stunning 70mm footage shot in over 30 countries, this panoramic film provides a wonderful opportunity to introduce youngsters to the concept of eco kindness.

If you haven’t had a chance to see it in person check out the video below.

January 5, 2018
Dole Whips Now Available at Pop Century

Disney‘s Pop Century Resort has a tasty new treat that will have you whipping and nae nae-ing. If it doesn’t get you dancing, it will definitely delight the taste buds, because Pop Century is now offering Dole Whips on their menu at the Everything Pop Food Court.

No trip is complete without experiencing the legendary classic Disney treat, and now there is one more place you can whip one up. And if you don’t feel like waiting in the long lines at the park for one, it will be a great way to end the night at the resort.

The much sought-after soft-serve delight known as Dole Whip is a popular frozen treat blended in pineapple, vanilla or swirled flavors. You can get the Dole Whip by itself (all pineapple or pineapple/vanilla swirl), or with Dole pineapple juice. The latter combination is called a Dole Whip float.

If you haven’t stayed at Pop Century in a bit now you have a great new reason to head back so you can get your whip on.

January 4, 2018
runDisney Announces First Ever Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon

If you love to run this is the marathon you’re looking for. runDisney is giving runners everywhere the opportunity to participate in the first-ever Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon and earn an out of this galaxy Star Wars-themed medal.

Starting January 3 – February 28, you can register for the new virtual race at runDisney.com or at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo during Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, January 3-6. Complete 13.1 miles in your neighborhood, on a treadmill or wherever you enjoy running by March 31 to earn your one-of-a-kind Star Wars hardware.

This new virtual run experience also includes the 2018 runDisney Kessel Run Challenge, offering runners the chance to earn a special challenge medal for completing both the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon from home and the Star Wars Dark Side Half Marathon on April 22 at Walt Disney World Resort.

As part of the registration process participants will have the opportunity to make a donation to Starlight Children’s Foundation on behalf of Star Wars: Force for Change. Starlight Children’s Foundation brings joy and comfort to hospitalized children and their families through programs at children’s hospitals around the world.

runDisney will also be making an independent donation to Starlight Children’s Foundation in honor of the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon.

January 4, 2018
Weather Advisory for Walt Disney World Marathon Runners

Due to colder than normal temperatures, a runDisney weather advisory has issued to all of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend runners.

The Central Florida area is anticipated to experience colder weather than usual during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, January 3-7. Those participating in race events should plan accordingly for their race. Here are some important tips from runDisney to consider:

Bundle Up – Dress for the expected cold-weather conditions. Two tops and running tights are recommended. In addition, moisture-wicking socks (not cotton) and a hat are highly encouraged. Any extra layers you discard at the start of the race or along the course will be picked up and donated to charity.

Protect Your Skin – Even though it is cold, be sure to apply sunscreen and lip balm to help protect from the sun and wind.

Dry Off – When you are finished with your race, change out of your wet clothes as soon as you can or get to your car or bus.

Hydrate – Even though it may be cold, don’t forget to drink water and Powerade to stay hydrated on the course. Drink room temperature water if you are cold.

Know the Danger Signs – This week’s cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Symptoms include numbness, tingling or aching, and bluish or pale skin. If you experience these, get to the nearest medical tent on the course or ask any runDisney volunteer to notify the medical team.

As a reminder, all medical stations will have the appropriate flag color displayed according to existing conditions. For more information, please reference the Event Safety page in the Digital Event Guide.

runDisney posted the advisory on their twitter feed.

Attention #WDWMarathon25 runners! There will be colder than normal temperatures during the @WaltDisneyWorld Marathon Weekend. As you prepare for your race, please review the weather advisory in the Digital Event Guide: https://t.co/dPB2nc7861. pic.twitter.com/ctFFkYj3ph

— runDisney (@runDisney) January 3, 2018

Any adjustments to the race are at the discretion of the Event Management team and are for everyone’s safety. Good luck out there. Stay safe, stay warm and have a magical run!

January 3, 2018
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Celebration Complete Guide
If you love to run then what better place is there to do it than the most magical place on Earth? The 25th Annual Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Celebration kicks off tomorrow morning.

It’s a huge weekend celebration with amazing sights, spectacular surprises and fantastic runs for the whole family including the 25^th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, 5K, 5^th Anniversary Dopey Challenge, 10K, runDisney Kids Races and Disney Castaway Cay Challenge. Plus, there’ll be plenty of Disney entertainment, favorite Disney characters, all-new anniversary commemorative medals and T-shirts, and much more! Share the magic and the memories during the 25^th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.

25^th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon presented by Cigna

Sunday, January 7, 2018
5:30 a.m.
Start/Finish: Epcot

Celebrate 25 years of running magic with Mickey at the most magical race on Earth! It’s a spectacular four-park celebration with your host Mickey Mouse during the 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon celebration. Every step is magic on this 26.2-mile run through all four Walt Disney World theme parks and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex with plenty of surprises, entertainment and Disney magic along the way. Experience the most magical course on Earth, including runs through the Magic Kingdom Park, home of favorite Disney characters, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park where wild adventures happen, Disney’s Hollywood Studios with all its show biz magic, and Epcot with its amazing Future World and World Showcase. Plus, you’ll receive a special, one-of-a-kind 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon commemorative finisher medal and T-shirt to remember the magic!
Walt Disney World Marathon Highlights:

26.2-mile course through all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Disney Characters and 25^th Anniversary entertainment on course

Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World Resort guests

Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters

Walt Disney World Marathon Participants Receive:

NEW! 25^th Anniversary Commemorative Mickey Mouse Finisher Medal

NEW! 25^th Anniversary Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut

Official Digital Event Guide

Virtual Goody Bag

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*

On-course and post-race refreshments

ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family

Runner’s World Trial Subscription
Walt Disney World Half Marathon presented by Cigna

Saturday, January 6, 2018
5:30 a.m.
Start/Finish: Epcot

The Walt Disney World Half Marathon is chock full of excitement, adventure, and surprises on a 13.1-mile course through two of Disney’s most beloved theme parks. Your run begins in Magic Kingdom Park, home to Mickey, Minnie and the whole Disney gang and overflowing with magic, wonder and charm. Then it’s on to spectacular Epcot, home of international World Showcase and all the thrills and delights of Future World. There’ll be lots of Disney entertainment along the way plus your favorite Disney characters to cheer you on to a fabulous finish in the shadow of Spaceship Earth.
Walt Disney World Half Marathon Highlights:

13.1-mile course through Walt Disney World Theme Parks

Disney Characters and Entertainment on course

Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World Resort guests

Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters

Walt Disney World Half Marathon Participants Receive:

Half Marathon Finisher Medal

Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut

Official Digital Event Guide

Virtual Goody Bag

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*

On-course and post-race refreshments

ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family

Runner’s World Trial Subscription
Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge presented by Cigna

Saturday, January 6 – Sunday, January 7, 2018

There’s nothing Goofy about Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge! It’s 39.3 miles and two days of pure fun and Disney magic. Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge combines Saturday’s Half Marathon – over 13.1 miles through Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot – with Sunday’s Marathon, which covers 26.2 miles through all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks including Epcot, Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Complete both races within the pacing requirements and you’ll earn the coveted Goofy medal in addition to your finisher medals.

You must register for Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge to receive the Goofy medal upon completion of both races within the pacing requirements.
Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge Highlights:

Half Marathon and Marathon courses through Walt Disney World Theme Parks totaling 39.3 miles

Disney Characters and Entertainment on course

Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World® Resort guests

Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters

Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge Participants Receive:

Special Goofy finisher medal along with the commemorative Half Marathon and Marathon finisher medals

Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut – For the Marathon, Half Marathon and Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge

Official Digital Event Guide

Virtual Goody Bag

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)

On-course and post-race refreshments

ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family

Runner’s World Trial Subscription
Walt Disney World 10K presented by Cigna

Friday, January 5, 2018
5:30 a.m.
Start/Finish: Epcot

Enjoy a thrilling 6.2-mile run throughout Epcot for the Walt Disney World 10K with your hostess Minnie Mouse. The course will take you through the beautiful World Showcase and Future World as well as Disney’s spectacular Yacht & Beach Club Resorts. There’ll be plenty of Disney entertainment along the way including your favorite Disney characters to cheer you on! Take home a one-of-a-kind Walt Disney World 10K finisher medal and T-shirt! It’s a perfect run and ideal choice for runners of all levels.

Walt Disney World 10K Highlights:
10K course through Epcot

Disney Characters and Entertainment on course

Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World® Resort guests

Walt Disney World 10K Participants Receive:

10K Finisher Medal

Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut

Official Digital Event Guide

Virtual Goody Bag

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)

On-course and post-race refreshments

ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family

Runner’s World Trial Subscription
Walt Disney World 5K presented by Cigna

Thursday, January 4, 2018
5:30 a.m.
Start/Finish: Epcot

Invite the whole family and enjoy a great run the in the shadow of Disney’s spectacular Epcot Theme Park during Walt Disney World 5K. You’ll make your way through the amazing Future World and then on to international World Showcase before a thrilling finish. It’s all part of the excitement during Walt Disney World 5K that’s a perfect event for beginners, intermediates, or even racing veterans. Adults, teens, tweens – and everyone in between –is invited to join the fun!
Walt Disney World 5K Highlights:

5K course through Epcot

Disney Characters and Entertainment on course

Family Reunion Area with entertainment and characters

Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World Resort guests

Walt Disney World 5K Participants Receive:

5K Finisher Meda

5K Unisex T-shirt

Official Digital Event Guide

Virtual Goody Bag

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)

On-course and post-race refreshments

Runner’s World Trial Subscription

5^th Anniversary Dopey Challenge presented by Cigna
Thursday, January 4 – Sunday, January 7, 2018

We’re celebrating five years of the ultimate endurance challenge and you’re invited to join the fun! It’s four days of race magic for a total of 48.6 miles in the 5^th Anniversary Dopey Challenge! Participants will run the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and 25^th Anniversary Walt Disney World^® Marathon, and if you complete all four races within the pacing requirements you will be awarded the Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge medal and the Dopey Challenge finisher medal for a total of six pieces of “bling.”

You must register for the Dopey Challenge to receive the Goofy Challenge and Dopey Challenge medals upon completion of all four races within the pacing requirements. Registering for these four events individually will not enable you to receive the challenge medals.

Dopey Challenge Highlights:
Four races through Walt Disney World Theme Parks totaling 48.6 miles

Disney Characters and Entertainment on course

Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World® Resort guests

Family Reunion Area with entertainment and characters

Dopey Challenge Race Participants Receive:

NEW! 5^TH Anniversary Dopey Challenge finisher medal along with the commemorative medals for the Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, 10K and 5K

NEW! 5^TH Anniversary Dopey Challenge Champion® Women’s or Men’s cut Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in addition to Tech Shirts for the Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, 10K and 5K cotton Unisex T-Shirt

Official Digital Event Guide

Virtual Goody Bag

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)

On-course and post-race refreshments

ChronoTrack B-tag timed race

Runner’s World Trial Subscription
runDisney Kids Races presented by GoGo squeeZ Applesauce on the Go

Friday, January 5 – Saturday, January 6, 2018
Kids Dashes: 10:30 a.m.
One Mile Run: 1:00 p.m.
Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Every child 13 and under who participates in the runDisney Kids Races goes home a winner with their very own finisher medallion! Children 13 and under are invited to participate in the runDisney Kids Races taking place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Friday and Saturday during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Encourage your youngsters to participate and sign up for any of the Kids Dashes or the One Mile Run during this fun-filled weekend. There’s even a Diaper Dash for crawlers! Space is limited.

Parents are allowed to run with their child. Any parents that participate with their child must sign a separate event waiver. The event will follow a rolling start beginning with the 100m dash followed by the 200m and Diaper Dash. The One Mile Run will have a separate start location and time. All distances will utilize the same finish location.

runDisney Kids Races Age Groups:
12 months and under – Diaper Dash for crawlers

1-4 years old – 100m dash

5-8 years old – 200m dash

One Mile Run – Open to all children 13 years old & under

runDisney Kids Dashes Race Participants Receive:

Finisher Medallion

runDisney Kids Races T-shirt

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*

Post-race refreshments

One Mile Run Race Participants Receive:

Finisher Medallion*

runDisney Kids Races T-shirt

Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*

Post-race refreshments

One Mile Run Finisher Certificate

ChronoTrack B-tag timed race
runDisney Health & Fitness Expo

Wednesday, January 3, 2018 – Noon – 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, January 4, 2018 – 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday, January 5, 2018 – 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 6, 2018 – 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Headquarters for everything you need to prepare for race weekend is at the Expo. All runners must attend the Expo for race number, shirt & gEAR bag pick-up. During the Expo celebration, you’ll be able to check out the latest in Official runDisney Race Weekend Merchandise, and get a sneak peek at the latest in fitness apparel, footwear, sunglasses, high tech gadgets, and nutritional products.

runDisney Health & Fitness Expo Highlights:
Race number, shirt & gEAR bag pick-up

Official runDisney Merchandise

Latest in apparel, fitness equipment, high tech gadgets and nutritional products

Disney Castaway Cay Challenge
Disney Cruise Line 4-night Bahamian Cruise January 8-12, 2018 following Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend January 3-7, 2018

Disney Castaway Cay 5K

January 10, 2018

From Parks to Paradise, join the Disney Castaway Cay Challenge! The Disney Castaway Cay Challenge is an ultimate running adventure, combining one magical 5K event or longer during the 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (January 3-7, 2018) with a Castaway Cay 5K on Disney Cruise Line’s private tropical island in the Bahamas the following week. On Monday, when Marathon Weekend is over, set sail on board the Disney Dream for a 4-night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral. You’ll sail to Disney Castaway Cay for your 5K run along sandy white beaches, past swaying palms and sparkling turquoise lagoons, with magical Disney moments to surprise you along the way. It’s a runner’s paradise in a spectacular island oasis. From parks to paradise…and a dream getaway on board a magical cruise!

Castaway Cay 5K Highlights:
3.1-mile course through Disney Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas

Course runs past sparkling lagoons, the harbor and white sandy beaches

Surprise Disney magical moments and entertainment on course

Castaway Cay Challenge Participants Receive:

Castaway Cay Challenge Event T-Shirt

Castaway Cay 5K Finisher Medallion

Castaway Cay Challenge Finisher Medal for participating in one Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend 5K or longer event PLUS the Castaway Cay 5K

Personalized bib (Must register by December 1, 2017 for name to appear on bib)

Post-race refreshments

Exciting activities and access to Special Merchandise on board Disney Cruise Line

Featured Healthy Menu Options on board Disney Cruise Line
Runner’s World VIP

The Runner’s World VIP program returns to the 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna. This offers runners the best of both worlds, producing a race experience unlike any other. The program is an exclusive opportunity to be coached by Runner’s World‘s director of training and four-time Olympic Trials qualifier Budd Coates. Plus, you’ll also receive advice from the magazine’s experts on training, nutrition, and injury prevention. Then on race weekend you’ll be treated like a VIP with exclusive race weekend amenities at the place where running dreams truly do come true.

Runner’s World VIP participants receive:

Runner’s World VIP Champion® tech shirt in time for your training to start

25^th Anniversary Commemorative Embroidered Champion Backpack

Exclusive 25^th Anniversary Marathon Finisher’s Jacket

A membership in a 16- to 20-week training plan designed by Coach Budd, who has coached thousands of elites, celebs, and everyday runners (celebrity/VIP appearances subject to change or cancellation without notice)

Weekly email from Coach Budd leading up to the event with training, nutrition, and health tips for the upcoming week’s workouts

Direct online access to Runner’s World experts on training, nutrition, and injuries during the 16- to 20-week event training plan

Access to private RW VIP online training forum to connect with other runners training for the 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

A membership for our interactive training log, where you can log your totals, watch your progress, and receive nightly e-mail reminders about the next day’s training

Exclusive early access to the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo on Wednesday, January 3, 2018, including private packet pick-up—there’s no need to walk all over the Expo since we’ve pulled all your race swag together for you (some restrictions may apply)

Pre-race course strategy session with the Runner’s World experts and editors

Pasta Party with Runner’s World editors

Exclusive pre-race walkout to corrals for the half marathon and full marathon

Corral placement will be determined based on proof of time that all runners must submit by October 3, 2017.

Entry to the Race Retreat on Saturday and Sunday

Pre-race amenities include hot and cold beverages with fruit and bagels, dedicated stretching area, and private port-a-lets, bag check and Disney character meet & greets

Post-race amenities include catered brunch, massage, private port-a-lets, bag pick-up and live results

Runner’s World VIP Registration Package Fees

Dopey Challenge – $1,150

VIP Race Retreat Package

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Exclusive Early Access to the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo
Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Saturday, January 6, 2018
3:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. (runners only)
5:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (runners and Platinum ChEAR Squad only)
Location: Imagine Lot, Epcot

Sunday, January 7, 2018
3:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. (runners only)
5:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (runners and Platinum ChEAR Squad only)
Location: Imagine Lot, Epcot

Enjoy your race weekend even more with a VIP Race Retreat Package!

The VIP Race Retreat Package is the ultimate way for runners to prepare for their race, get pampered, and reunite with friends and family once the race is over.

Exclusive Early Access to the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo

Private Hospitality tent near the Finish Line including live video feed from the race and access to live runner results

Pre-race bagels and fruit, plus coffee, water and PowerAde

Private restrooms, changing tents and bag check

Disney character appearances

Recovery Zone including padded stretching area, self-treatment and first aid station and massages available for purchase (first-come, first-serve)

Disney catered post-race brunch

Designated location to meet friends and family to celebrate your accomplishment!*

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend commemorative item

Race Retreat Pricing:

Walt Disney World Marathon – $120

Walt Disney World Half Marathon – $120

Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge – $230

Dopey Challenge – $230
January 3, 2018
Disney Water Parks Closed Due to Freezing Temperature

The cold never bothered us anyway! Okay so it actually does because temperatures are low enough that Disney has Closed Typhoon Lagoon.

Cold weather is sweeping through Florida and bringing a chance of snow early Wednesday ahead of freezing rain north of Gainesville.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon has been closed since Monday and also briefly closed last month due to cold weather.

Blizzard Beach is already closed until January 6th for renovations, but the cold snap surely would have surely closed anyway.

All other Walt Disney World Theme Parks remain are open for business.

Typhoon Lagoon will be closed through Thursday, but that could change. Disney officials said they would evaluate later in the week if a longer closure would be needed.

January 3, 2018
Disney World Resort Pools Close Due to Cold Weather

Baby it’s cold outside. So cold in fact that Walt Disney World Resorts have closed their pools today due to the un-florida like temperatures.

A massive cold snap that is covering much of the country and even Florida is feeling the effects. The lows on Wednesday to Friday will be around freezing (32F) and with the wind chill it will feel like it’s in the upper 20’s later in the week. Not until Sunday will there be a high into the 60s. Orlando hasn’t reached temperatures since January 2014. So it’s possible the they may close remain closed for a few days.

If you need to warm up after a nice freezing day at the parks, the Hot Tubs will still be open at resorts that have them from 10am to 8pm.

January 3, 2018
LEAKED: Scrapped Haunted Mansion Animated Series Trailer

Shannon Tindle, creator of Kubo and the Two Strings, released a trailer via his twitter this weekend of a Haunted Mansion Animated Series that he had developed at Disney. The trailer actually looks really intriguing, but unfortunately the teaser was as far as project made it, since Disney decided to scrap the project.

Tindle, with a deal from Disney Television Animation and a small creative team, developed the project last year. Two different pilots were written for the possible Haunted Mansion animated series. One for a limited series and one for a longer running series. For a look at what could have been, take a peek at the trailer for the series below.

In a report from Cartoon Brew, Tindle said, “My goal was to take inspiration from all the backstories created by the artists at WED (Disney’s Imagineering division) and stitch it into one, giant narrative. The story would span several years and focus on different characters, but add up to one big, interconnected story.”

Tindle’s initial tweeted contained a link to the video on Vimeo, but he later deleted it “in case Disney has issues with it being posted.” He is no longer with Disney but said of the project that he had received “nothing but support” from the team at Disney Television Animation, even though it was eventually scuttled.

Although Disney isn’t picking up the series, the reactions from Tindle’s Trailer Tweet was very well received online. Tindle’s show now has a passionate group of fans who want to see the series produced and finished for all audiences to view.

Disney could have canned the series any number of reasons, one possibly being they just recently released an animated Haunted Mansion Special of their own, which aired on Disney XD. Who knows though? Deadpool, though not owned by Disney at the time, also had a “Leaked” trailer which received such an enthusiastic response that it finally spurred its reluctant studio into making the film. Here’s to hoping!

January 3, 2018