Author: Nate

Digital Key Feature in My Disney Experience App Expands to Additional Disney Resort Hotels

Disney has added a lot of new features to their My Disney Experience app recently including the mobile food ordering service, the new bus wait time feature and even an option to digitally unlock your room directly from your phone. Well the digital key feature has been a success and it will soon be rolled out resort wide.

With the app you can now turn your Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone into a digital key that unlocks your hotel room door, representing another seamless room entry option for guests to use in addition to their MagicBands. This technology made its initial debut at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge earlier this year, and this week, Disney is completing its rollout to Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World Resort, including Disney Vacation Club properties.

Using a digital key can help add convenience and flexibility to your stay, whether you simply prefer the look and feel of your mobile phone or if you need a backup option after accidentally locking yourself out of your room (it happens to the best of us). The feature was designed with a distinctly Disney touch, and if you listen closely, you’ll hear the sound of pixie dust filling the air as your hotel door opens.

Guests can also use their digital key to unlock the hotel entrance gate and common area doors requiring a key, which may include fitness centers, elevators and club level lounges. And arriving travel parties that have checked in online may even use their digital key to bypass the front desk, similar to what they are able to do with the MagicBand, giving them the opportunity to go directly to their room when it is ready and start their vacation even faster.

Each guest staying in the room with a My Disney Experience account may opt in and activate the feature on their check-in day through a brief set up process in the app. To enter their room, guests tap the “Unlock Door” button and then simply hold their phone against the door lock.

This is the latest in the evolution of keyless room entry, which began with the MagicBand, the unique all-in-one device that allows you to effortlessly access the plans and vacation choices you’ve made in My Disney Experience. Guests can choose to use either or both options for room entry throughout their trip, but please remember to wear your MagicBand for all other uses, including park entry, FastPass+ redemption, linking Disney PhotoPass images and more.

Be sure to download the latest version of My Disney Experience today for iOS or Android to opt in and activate your digital key during your Disney Resort hotel stay and discover all of the other great features in the app.

August 22, 2018
Disney Parks Moms Panel Kicks Off 2019 Search Sept. 5

Calling all vacationers who know a thing or two about the power of magic: The Disney Parks Moms Panel is looking for you! Entering its 12^th year, the search for next the Disney Parks Moms Panel will be open Sept. 5-12, 2018.

All park-savvy Disney buffs are invited to apply for a coveted spot to serve on the popular online forum. Disney welcomes dads, moms, in-the-know family members and anyone who feels they’ve spent as much time at a Disney park as Mickey Mouse himself to apply for a chance to be a part of the magic.

The Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online resource comprised of everyday parents, grandparents and even adults without kids who share first-hand advice with those planning a Disney vacation, while offering personal guidance on any and all topics surrounding Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club and beyond. The panel offers recommendations on vacation “musts” and information on a variety of Disney experiences and activities, such as identifying the most incredible experiences for toddlers at Disneyland Resort’s new Pixar Pier, recommendations on what to order at Woody’s Lunch Box in the newly opened Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World Resort, or how to uncover the best snorkeling spots on Disney Cruise Line’s private island, Castaway Cay. New this year, the Disney Parks Moms Panel will be more accessible than ever with answers optimized for search engines and home assistant devices – a first for Disney Parks and Resorts – allowing the panelists to reach even more Disney guests around the world.

“My passion for creating epic Disney getaways led me to the Disney Parks Moms Panel,” said Jerry M., one of the Disney dads on the panel. “The magic of the Disney Parks Moms Panel is our collective experience and our diverse backgrounds coming together that make this panel so informative. Our mission is to be everyone’s trusted guides when it comes to planning a Disney vacation, offering heartfelt advice from our own experiences. Together, as a panel, we’ve just about done it all!”

“It is truly rewarding to see Disney guests come together and share their personal stories and experiences in an effort to help others plan a memorable Disney vacation,” said Leanne O’Regan, Director of Public Relations for Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products. “For 12 years, the Disney Parks Moms Panel has helped millions of people around the world plan outstanding Disney vacations with over 250,000 questions and answers available at any given time, all thanks to the impressive group of panelists who are chosen each year. We encourage those who have a passion for sharing their knowledge on all things Disney Parks to be our guest and apply to the 2019 Disney Parks Moms Panel!”

How to Apply

Applications for the 2019 Disney Parks Moms Panel will be accepted from noon EDT on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2018, through noon EDT on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2018. To apply, visit www.momspanelsearch.com. The application process includes a series of short-answer questions, a brief video submission and a phone interview over three rounds. The 2019 Disney Parks Moms Panelists will be announced in January. Applicants selected must be available to attend a training session at Walt Disney World Resort from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1, 2018. Panelists are selected based on their wealth of Disney knowledge, as well as their ability to communicate authentic answers to those seeking assistance for their upcoming trips.

August 22, 2018
Mickey Mouse 90th Anniversary Limited-Time Celebrations Announced for Disney Parks Around the World
Mickey Mouse is turning 90 years young this year and Disney Parks are preparing for a birthday party like no other! With a milestone this big, one party simply will not do! That’s why Mickey’s birthday celebration will span across the globe with a series of events at all Disney Parks sites around the world.

These parties are in addition to the previously announced World’s Biggest Mouse Party – a limited-time, global celebration of Mickey and Minnie – as well as ‘Mickey: The True Original Exhibition’ in New York City.

Here is a list of the celebrations you can expect from Disney Parks around the world:
- Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will celebrate Mickey’s birthday from November 16-18 with special merchandise and food & beverage items as well as the chance for guests to celebrate at Magic Kingdom Park during the “Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!” Street Party, sing “Happy Birthday” along with the Dapper Dans on Main Street, U.S.A., and join in a special birthday dance party at Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland. Then in 2019, Walt Disney World will continue celebrating when World’s Biggest Mouse Party comes to the resort.
- Disneyland Resort in California will host a celebration cavalcade for Mickey Mouse on November 18, featuring some of his special friends and the Disneyland Band, starting at “it’s a small world” and pausing for a special moment at Sleeping Beauty Castle before continuing down Main Street, U.S.A., to Town Square. The party continues when World’s Biggest Mouse Party begins at Disneyland Resort in 2019.
- Disney Cruise Line will join the celebration when World’s Biggest Mouse Party takes to the seas in 2019.
- Shanghai Disney Resort will be the first to kick off World’s Biggest Mouse Party with a brand-new Mickey-themed float at the opening ceremony of the Shanghai Tourism Festival on September 15 to commemorate the Shanghai launch of World’s Biggest Mouse Party. At Shanghai Disneyland, a giant birthday card will be installed next to “Storytellers” statue, featuring birthday wishes from Mickey’s pals. From November 16-18, guests will enjoy themed food and merchandise offerings as well as the opportunity to sing “Happy Birthday” to Mickey just before the nighttime spectacular show each evening, all culminating with a special nighttime birthday spectacular at Enchanted Storybook Castle on November 18.
- Hong Kong Disneyland will begin its World’s Biggest Mouse Party activations on Mickey’s birthday, November 18, with commemorative park tickets, special food & beverage and merchandise, a hotel room overlay and “We Love Mickey” projection show through February 2019. And Hong Kong Disneyland guests will receive special birthday stickers, available only on November 18.
- Tokyo Disney Resort will join the celebration this fall with special decorations and merchandise.
- Disneyland Paris will celebrate the World’s Biggest Mouse Party this fall and into winter with new holiday season entertainment and special surprises.
“Mickey: The True Original Exhibition,” an interactive art exhibit, will open in New York from November 8, 2018 – February 10, 2019. This immersive, pop-up art exhibition is inspired by Mickey’s status as a ‘true original’ and his global impact on popular culture and art. From his beginning in black and white in Steamboat Willie to the technicolor world of more than 100 cartoon shorts, exhibition guests will step into an unforgettable journey of Mickey moments reimagined.

“As Walt said, ‘I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse’,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products. “From ‘The True Original Exhibition’ to a year-long celebration in our parks around the world, we are honoring the deep connection that families and fans have made with Mickey and Minnie Mouse for nearly a century.”

Mickey’s 90th is definitely a “mouse”-do this fall! With so many birthday parties to choose from, one question remains: which will you be a part of?
August 20, 2018
‘Mickey: The True Original Exhibition’ To Honor Mickey Mouse’s 90th anniversary

Everyone’s favorite mouse is celebrating his 90th birthday this year and the celebrations are ubiquitous. Today, Disney announced that ‘Mickey: The True Original Exhibition,’ an interactive art exhibit, will open in New York in honor of the 90^th anniversary of Mickey Mouse.

The 16,000-square-foot interactive experience will feature original work from renowned and emerging contemporary artists. Before the official opening in November, three artists will preview their installations in three pop-up locations across the country. The installations pay tribute to three iconic pieces of Mickey Mouse merchandise that have withstood the test of time – the Mickey Mouse watch, tee-shirt, and plush.

In this exhibit you’ll be able to walk through the evolution of reimagined Mickey moments, from his Steamboat Willie days to the icon we know today. To begin the 90-day countdown, new brand and product collaborations spanning fashion, food, consumer electronics, toys, accessories and more are now available worldwide.

This magical exhibit will be curated by designer Darren Romanelli and will showcase the talents of many contemporary artists including Kenny Scharf, Amanda Ross-Ho, and Shinique Smith. Before the grand opening in November, these talented artists are giving us a little taste of what’s in store! Scharf, Ross-Ho, and Smith will preview their installations in three pop-up locations across the country, each of which pay tribute to iconic Mickey Mouse merch through the ages.

“As Walt said, ‘I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse.’ From ‘The True Original Exhibition’ to a year-long celebration in our parks around the world, we are honoring the deep connection that families and fans have made with Mickey and Minnie Mouse for nearly a century.” said Bob Chapek, Chairman of Disney Parks.

“Mickey: The True Original Exhibition” runs from November 8, 2018 through February 10, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 60 10th Avenue, New York.

August 20, 2018
Body Found in Burning Vehicle at Walt Disney World

A dead body was found in burning vehicle at Disney World after firefighters were called to put out the blaze early Saturday, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies began investigating the body in the Fantasia Gardens mini-golf course parking lot on Epcot Resorts Boulevard just after 4 a.m. when the Reedy Creek Fire Department called for assistance, according to reports.

Officials have not released the cause of the fire or the name of the vehicle’s owner. The victim was also not immediately identified.

The fire marshal, homicide detectives and Sector 6 Investigators were on scene conducting an investigation, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation is still on going. No further information was immediately available.

August 19, 2018
Disney Drops Trailer for ‘The Force Awakens’ Prequel Series ‘Star Wars Resistance’

Friday, we got our first look at Star Wars Resistance, the new anime-inspired animated series, and a promise of more to come when the series debuts on Sunday, October 7th at 10 p.m. EST on Disney Channel, DisneyNOW, and Disney Channel VOD, with subsequent airings on Disney XD.

The trailer comes complete with familiar faces like Poe Dameron and everyone’s happily-beeping buddy, BB-8; a glimpse at the new cast of characters including Kazuda Xiono, the young pilot recruited by the Resistance; and an introduction to the Colossus, a massive refueling platform on an outer rim ocean planet. The series, set prior to the events in The Force Awakens, also welcomes Oscar Isaac and Gwendoline Christie to the voice cast, reprising their roles as Poe and Captain Phasma, respectively.

See the trailer for yourself below:

We’re also thrilled to bring you intel on the first episode! In the one-hour premiere “The Recruit,” Poe and BB-8 assign Kaz to the Colossus, where he meets a cast of colorful new aliens, droids and creatures. While undercover to spy on the growing threat of the First Order, Kaz works as a mechanic and lives with Poe’s old friend Yeager — a veteran pilot who operates a starship repair shop run by his crew: Tam, Neeku and a battered old astromech called Bucket.

“Can you imagine what it’s like to be an ace pilot?” Kaz asks.

This fall, imagine no more. Welcome to the Resistance!

August 19, 2018
‘Spelltacular’ Merchandise Coming to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2018 at Magic Kingdom Park

Halloween fun awaits when Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party returns to Magic Kingdom Park for select nights from August 17 to October 31, 2018. Guests attending this after-hours event can collect frightfully delightful sweets – all while the park hosts eerie entertainment and Disney characters that go bump in the night. One way to commemorate a visit to the happiest haunting on Earth is with unique products created especially for this event.

“Guests who grew up watching the Sanderson Sisters in Disney’s ‘Hocus Pocus’ every Halloween will love merchandise saluting the film’s 25th Anniversary,” explained Cathy Dawson, product developer for Walt Disney World Events. “From apparel to a Passholder exclusive tote bag, these items are a great way to remember both the motion picture and the wonderful ‘Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular’ stage show hosted by the sisters during the party.”

New this year, Cathy developed three T-shirts resembling outfits worn by the Sanderson Sisters.

“Guests are encouraged to dress in costumes at this event, so the T-shirts are an easy way to create an instant Halloween outfit,” continued Cathy.

Other “Hocus Pocus” products include a black-colored Spirit Jersey adorned with a phrase uttered by the mischievous siblings, a cauldron-shaped mug, and a light-up ornament complete with a sculpted image of the trio.

Guests will also find returning favorites such as short- and long-sleeved apparel, and a brightly colored ear hat ornament. Painted with orange, black and purple hues, each item shows Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse enjoying the festivities while dressed for the season.

Annual Passholders will discover several exclusively developed products, from a raglan top that has glow-in-the-dark printing to an Orange Bird collectible pin. These items will only be sold to Passholders, making them an extra special treat.

Other pins this year showcase Disney characters enjoying sweet party treats such as popcorn, cupcakes and candy.

A villain-inspired boxed pin set adds an element of mystery to the evening. There are 12 pins in this collection and each box contains two randomly selected pins, which includes four limited edition chaser pins.

Rounding out the event merchandise collection, guests will find a retail MagicBand with an edition size of 4,000. Presented in a decorative box with glow-in-the-dark ink, guests can use this MagicBand 2 design to unlock the magic of a Disney vacation, from going directly to their resort room after their arrival to effortless theme-park entry, FastPass+ redemption, Disney PhotoPass association and more.

The best locations to find these items during the event is Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A. and Big Top Souvenirs in the Storybook Circus area of New Fantasyland. Frontier Trading Post in Frontierland will also offer the event pins.

August 17, 2018
Costume Guidelines for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
So … You’re going to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The first question is … What to Wear? Here is everything you need to know about the costume guidelines for the event.

Are you going to be the super hero you were last year or are you going to mix it up this year and go for the full “princess” or “pirate” you’ve always wanted?

Disney Parks created a cute little video to help guide visitors to the party with some best practices for their Halloween costumes. Take a look at the video below:

As a reminder, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party requires a separate ticket (a party specific ticket). This year, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties will be held on select nights throughout the fall season and will feature all kinds of fun frights. Many guests favorites are returning, including the Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade, the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular,” and Happy HalloWishes Fireworks Spectacular.
- August 17, 24, 28, 31
- September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
- October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31
August 16, 2018
Complete Guide To Spooky Treats at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom Park

Halloween kicks off early this year in Magic Kingdom Park, with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on select evenings beginning Aug. 17, fun-filled evening with trick-or-treating throughout the park, eerie entertainment and Disney characters that go bump in the night.

But it’s more than a dozen specially created treats – some available only during the parties, some all day in Magic Kingdom Park – that are most delectable (and Instagrammable). Here’s the sweet rundown:

No-So-Poison Apple Cupcake – Main Street Bakery (available daily through October 31)
Magic mirror on the wall…show me the tastiest cupcake of them all! Snow White would definitely love to eat this spiced “apple” cupcake with pecan crunch and buttercream.

Halloween Cinnamon Roll – Main Street Bakery (available daily through October 31)
This deliciously spooky Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll is topped with icing and a chocolate spider web.

Pumpkin Cheesecake – Main Street Bakery (available on party nights only)
Topped with a chocolate Mickey Pumpkin, the gluten-friendly Pumpkin Cheesecake is sure to be a ghoulish delight with gluten-friendly vanilla pecan cake and caramel glaze.

Minnie Witch Brownie – Casey’s Corner (available daily through October 31)
This decadent brownie just flew in to Casey’s Corner and is topped with a white chocolate piece featuring the one and only FABULOUS Minnie Mouse, dressed in her Halloween best!

Hades Nachos – Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café (available on party nights only)
Turn up the heat with the Hades Nachos. These black bean nacho chips are topped with fiery buffalo chicken and your choice of toppings from the topping bar!

Worms & Dirt – Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café (available on party nights only; available daily starting October 1)
These gummy worms have been laid to rest. No mourning, please, at their request. The Worms & Dirt chocolate pudding comes topped with gluten-friendly cake crumbs, gummy worms, and a chocolate grave stone.

Treats at the Cider House (available on party nights only)
Nearby at the Cider House (Golden Oak Outpost), you’ll find some refreshing Apple Cider. Pair it with a Warm Caramel-Stuffed Pretzel or a few Cinnamon Donuts and you’ve got yourself a frighteningly sweet snack!

Zero Waffle Sundae – Sleepy Hollow (available on party nights only; available daily starting October 1)
Everyone’s favorite ghostly good boy, Zero, has some special pumpkin waffles for you here at Sleepy Hollow. This sundae comes topped vanilla ice cream, sprinkles, and a caramel drizzle.

Jack Skellington Cake Push Pop – Sleepy Hollow (available on party nights only)
If there is an empty place inside those bones, then you should fill it with the Jack Skellington Cake Push Pop. It comes layered with chocolate cake, vanilla buttercream, white chocolate and dark chocolate crispy pearls, dark chocolate curls, and a white chocolate Jack Skellington piece.

Madame Leota Dessert – Liberty Square Market (available on party nights only)
Dear, sweet Leota, beloved by all. In regions beyond now, but having a ball-shaped dessert. You don’t need a fortune teller to see this sweet treat in your future! The Madame Leota Dessert has a vanilla tart shell filled with toasted marshmallow pastry crème and topped with crispy pearls, chocolate, and a hard candy garnish.

Hitchhiking Ghost Dessert – Aloha Isle (available on party nights only)
These hungry ghosts have hitchhiked all the way to Adventureland – and they’ve brought this Doom Buggy-inspired Cream Puff with them! It’s filled with cookies and cream mousse and topped witch a chocolate piece featuring the Hitchhiking Ghosts.

Oogie Boogie Meringue – Gaston’s Tavern (available on party nights only)
You’re joking! You’re JOKING! This thing is gluten-friendly? That’s right – this pomegranate-cherry gelée with gummy worms is topped with glow-in-the-dark meringue AND it’s gluten-friendly. How cool is that?

Maleficent Dessert – Storybook Treats (available daily through October 31)
LISTEN WELL – ALL OF YOU! The Maleficent Dessert has arrived at Storybook Treats! It comes with lime soft-serve in a black waffle cone and topped with purple sugar and chocolate horns.

Candy Corn Ice Cream – Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies (available daily through October 31)
Satisfy that candy corn sweet tooth with this yummy soft-serve ice cream. Get it in a cone or in a sundae!

Candy Corn Milkshake – Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies (available daily through October 31)
We didn’t just stop at candy corn ice cream. This year we’ve created the Candy Corn Milkshake! The perfect Halloween treat – it’s topped with cotton candy and a Mickey-shaped marshmallow.

Muenster Smash Burger – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (available on party nights only)
Feed that monstrous appetite with the Muenster Smash Burger served on a black bun with Muenster cheese, tots, and Sriracha aïoli.

Popcorn – Various Popcorn Carts Throughout the Park
If you’re looking for those fun popcorn buckets, then check out my Novelty Guide to Halloween 2018 at Disney Parks for all the latest info and where to find them!

Remember, these treats are only available Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party nights starting at 7pm (unless otherwise noted above). This special ticketed event occurs on select nights August 17–October 31. Also, note that some of these items may materialize on Mobile Order on the My Disney Experience app!

Come on out and taste these SCARY good eats for yourself, if you dare…MWAHAHAHAHA

August 16, 2018
Enter For a Chance to Win in the 2018 ‘Not-So-Scary’ Blog Party at Magic Kingdom Park Sweepstakes
One of Disney World’s most popular events of the year – the “Not-So-Scary” Blog Party at Magic Kingdom Park – is back to kick off the first night of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort. On Friday, August 17, 2018, Disney Destinations is hosting a special Halloween party for 100 winners of the “Not-So-Scary” Blog Party at Magic Kingdom Park Sweepstakes.

This year’s “Not-So-Scary” Blog Party at Magic Kingdom Park begins at 4 p.m. EDT on Friday, August 17 but winners can arrive between 3:30-7:30 p.m. EDT. Winners will receive admission to the popular Happy HalloWishes Dessert Party and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Winners and their guests are encouraged, but not required, to wear costumes (no masks) to the event, subject to the Walt Disney World Resort’s general costume guidelines and the guidelines below. Winners and their guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry and/or removed, unless his or her costume can be modified to meet these guidelines, and in such case will forfeit their prize without any additional compensation.

You can enter for a chance to win by clicking here and following the entry instructions to complete an official entry form. Your entry must state your valid email address and full name.

Also, there are a few things you should know:
- All entrants must be 18 years or older and legal residents of, and physically located within, the state of Florida. However, guests of the winners do not need to be 18 or older (as long as the guest is the child or ward of the winner).
- Limit one guest per winner.
- A notice will be sent, via email, to the winning entrants.
- It will be necessary for the winner and guest to check in at the Transportation & Ticket Center for access to the event. The notice will include those details.
- Confirmation email and valid photo I.D. will be required at check-in.
- Costumes should not be obstructive, offensive or violent; drag on the ground; contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another guest; contain any weapons or objects which resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
- Masks will not be permitted.
- Prizes are not redeemable for cash and are not transferable.
Hope to see you in your best costume on August 17.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Starts 11:00 a.m. ET on 8/15/18, and ends 1:00 p.m. ET of the same day. Open only to legal residents of Florida who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Limit 1 entry per person. For full details including eligibility requirements, odds of winning and prize limitations, see Official Rules. Prize does not include accommodations or transportation between winner’s home and Magic Kingdom® Park on August 17, 2018. Void where prohibited.
August 15, 2018