Tag: news

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Virtual Queue Can Soon Be Booked from Outside the Park
Since its debut last year, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance has proven to be one of the most popular attractions at Disney World and to to help alleviate wait times and shorten lines Disney to created a virtual queue that could only be accessed while inside Hollywood Studios. Now Disney has changed the procedure and you can access the virtual queue outside the park.

To better help guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios plan ahead for their day at the park, they’re piloting a new approach to the virtual queue system for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Starting Nov. 3, 2020, here’s how it will work:
- Guests with a valid ticket or annual pass and a Disney Park Pass reservation for Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be able to access the virtual queue system and check for an available boarding group starting at 7 a.m. on the day of their park reservation. This can be done before you leave your Disney resort hotel, or wherever else nearby you might be at that time.
- Just as we do today, the virtual queue will reopen daily at 2 p.m. for anyone who wasn’t already able to join a boarding group earlier in the day. Note: Guests must be inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios to access this second virtual queue opportunity, and access to a boarding group is subject to availability and not guaranteed.
Disney is hoping this new approach will make a day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios more enjoyable and relaxing, as guests no longer need to be inside the park each morning to request a boarding group for the first virtual queue opportunity. As a reminder, you need to be inside the park to request the 2 p.m. boarding groups.

To try to maximize the number of boarding groups Disney’s able to accommodate while adhering to current health and safety guidelines, they recently added a clear barrier between the two rows of seats on each First Order Fleet Transport vehicle inside the attraction. This enables them to invite more guests to board Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance each day.

The attraction’s virtual queue is only accessible via the My Disney Experience mobile app. To maximize your opportunity to secure a boarding group, here are some tips we recommend you check off your list prior to your day at the park:
- Register an account in My Disney Experience
- Download the My Disney Experience mobile app on your smart device or ensure you’re using the most updated version of the app before you arrive at the park.
- Link and assign all park tickets in your party to a My Disney Experience account
- Have a valid Disney Park Pass reservation for Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the day you’re visiting
- Select one member of your party to access the virtual queue for everyone in your group; if multiple people in your party try to join the virtual queue simultaneously, that may complicate your ability to secure a boarding group
- Remember, virtual queue boarding groups are limited and subject to availability
This new pilot approach to the Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance virtual queue is designed to give guests the best possible experience during a day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
October 29, 2020
Florida Governor Pushing for Cruises to Resume

Tuesday, at a press conference, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis pushed for international travel restrictions to be lifted and cruises to resume and said he’s been in touch with the White House about how to do it.

The statement from the governor comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s no-sail order is set to expire this weekend, however the CDC has not given any indication as to whether it will extend the order.

DeSantis acknowledged that it is more high risk than attending other outdoor gatherings, but said he thinks cruising can be done safely.

“Obviously, that is going to be an environment that is a different level of risk than going to an outdoor football game or some of these other things,” DeSantis said. “It has all kinds of impacts throughout different parts of Florida where the ships leave. Central Florida, South Florida, Tampa Bay. And we want to see that resume. So, I’ve worked with the White House on that. I do believe the president is supportive of it.”

With advances in rapid testing and airline cleaning protocols, DeSantis said relaxing rules about travelers would help Central Florida, particularly entertainment venues that have also stepped up efforts to fight the spread of COVID-19.

DeSantis said he thinks rapid tests could be helpful in getting the cruise industry back into business and said if a cruise line wanted to test everyone on board, they could.

The governor pointed to the economic value the industry brings to the state as the reason why he has been working to get cruises going again.

DeSantis said he’s worked with the White House on the issue and believes the president is supportive of it.

The “no sail” order, initially issued in March, has been extended three times. Currently, no major cruise lines are selling departures for November out of U.S. ports.

October 28, 2020
New Remote-Controlled Baby Yoda Plush is Strong with the Force

When Disney+ released ‘The Mandalorian’ last year, there wasn’t much merchandise ready to go due to the level of secrecy surrounding creature affectionately known as ”Baby Yoda,” but as season 2 gets ready to premiere, Mattel has unveiled a new Baby Yoda remote control plush and this is the toy you’re looking for…

Now you can embrace your guardian skills when you assume control of “The Child” from Star Wars: The Mandalorian. The new Mattel Baby Yoda is an animatronic RC toy that is controlled with a wrist strap remote control unit with its joystick and you can also enable a “Follow Me” mode.

The 11 inch toy has the ability to waddle on the ground, turn its head from side to side, look up and down and wiggle its ears, play hide and seek, make sounds, and more as you can see in the video below:

The animatronics aren’t just restricted to Baby Yoda’s head though—his arms can move up and down as he attempts to use the Force, or reach for a control knob to use as a play toy.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian The Child Real Moves Plush is now available for pre-order here at shopDisney for $69.99 and will be available for this fall.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian Season 2 debuts on Disney+ this Friday, October 30th. During a recent interview, executive producers Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni teased what fans can expect from the upcoming season – including details about Baby Yoda.

“The new season is about introducing a larger story in the world,” Favreau explained. “The stories become less isolated, yet each episode has its own flavor, and hopefully we’re bringing a lot more scope to the show.” Adds Filoni, “Everything gets bigger, the stakes get higher, but also the personal story between the Child and the Mandalorian develops in a way I think people will enjoy.”

October 28, 2020
First Look: Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew Coming Soon to Disney Springs

A new sweet spot is coming to Disney World and today, Disney shared a first look at — Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew — the new specialty food and beverage location opening soon at Disney Springs West Side.

Disney Springs recently shared a sneak peek at a few of the delicious donuts that will soon be baking at Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew. These beauties are over-the-top and will only add to the amazing variety of sweet spots you can find on property.

The overall design of this sweet spot will have a unique spin on a classic donut shop featuring graphic pops of color, iconic signage, and a beautiful outdoor seating area in the “donut garden.” Take a look below at the new renderings released by Disney:

Before guests enter the venue, they may catch a glimpse of a culinary experience unfolding through the windows of the exposed kitchen where hot and fresh donuts will bake daily.

“We like to say our little oasis of indulgences is going to be where ‘Happiness is Glazed Daily,’” says Mark Gibson, co-owner of Everglazed. “The menu will be full of sweet surprises and a unique spot for guests wanting a quick treat, cold brew or nitro-infused chilled coffee.”

Everglazed will specialize in hand-crafted donuts featuring mouthwatering yeast and cake donuts with an assortment of cold brew lattes and coffee cocktails and a few sweet-yet-savory sandwich bites.

“The humble donut has truly become a global phenomenon. The fried circle of dough is a simple concoction with the ability to showcase chef-inspired flavors and toppings,” says Guy Revelle, co-owner of Everglazed. “We can’t wait to offer guests at Disney Springs our robust menu of sweet delights, but you are officially warned: We spoke to your diet – and it’s taking some time off when we open our doors.”

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew will be located adjacent to Splitsville and near the west entrance and exit of the Orange Parking Garage.

October 27, 2020
Walt Disney World Entrance Sign is Getting a Makeover

Starting today, the iconic entrance into Walt Disney World Resort is getting a makeover.

These magical gateways to a Disney vacation are about to get some pixie dust as they begin to adorn them with a new color palette that complements the recent royal makeover of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park.

When you arrive at Disney world the very first bit of magic you experience is actually driving underneath these grand arches stretching over the roadways that tell you, yes, you’ve finally arrived at The Most Magical Place on Earth. You are here!

The rendering above gives you a first glimpse at what the entrances will look like when they’re finished; in addition, you’ll see these colors appear on the Magic Kingdom Park Auto Plaza as we bring a new shimmer to that iconic entryway.

These refreshed gateways will continue to set the tone for all the stories you’ll tell and the memories you’ll cherish long after your visit. They’re also part of the broad tapestry of new experiences happening across Walt Disney World as part of the resort’s historic transformation that includes expansive themed lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, new attractions like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and new places to stay like Disney’s Riviera Resort.

October 26, 2020
Disney World Announces Extended Holiday Hours

Disney World has just announced that it will be offering extended hours for Guests to experience the magic this holiday season at all four of its theme parks.

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Disney World has made several adjustments to its normal holiday plans over the past several months. While the park may not be holding its normal Christmas celebrations, it will have extended hours during the Christmas season.

According to the Disney World website, the Magic Kingdom will be open from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. from the beginning of December until the week of Christmas. Starting on Sunday, Dec. 20, the Magic Kingdom will be open from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m.

These hours will continue until Dec. 30. On New Year’s Eve, the park is still listed as being open only from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Epcot, Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom will also have extended hours. Similarly to the Magic Kingdom, these extended hours appear to end on New Year’s Eve.

Disney World also has the hours for the first full week of January listed on its website. The Magic Kingdom will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Epcot from noon until 8 p.m., Hollywood Studios from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. and the Animal Kingdom will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

October 25, 2020
New Holiday Merchandise Coming to Disney Parks and shopDisney.com

It’s exactly two months until Christmas for those counting the days and in honor of the occasion, Disney has given us a first look at some merry merchandise coming soon to shopDisney.com and select Disney Parks around the world.

Whether you are visiting Disney Parks this holiday season or just looking to bring the holiday magic home, there are some festive new collections featuring apparel, accessories and even homeware, coming your way.

Take a closer look below:

Disney Parks ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Collection- Select products available beginning Oct. 26 and throughout the holiday season at shopDisney.com, Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort & Walt Disney World Resort

The latest spirit jerseys, headbands, mini backpacks by Loungefly and face masks are sure to be on your Christmas list this year! From peppermint plaid to an all-over print wonderland, you’ll love these spirit jerseys perfect for the wintery weather. Don’t miss out on the peppermint twist cloth face mask and bold red and green cloth face mask by Spirit Jersey.

For the headband and mini backpack collector, the newest additions are sure to be coming down your chimney this holiday season. Just look at that all-over print mini backpack from Loungefly and adorable gingerbread Minnie Mouse ear headband!

The kiddos can get in on the jolly fun as well with new spirit jerseys, hats, sweatshirts and cloth face masks! Oh, and did I mention the first-ever snow blower?! Perfect for those in the South wanting some wintery fun!

Holiday traditions with your family don’t have to stop in the Parks… Get the whole family together in the matching onesies featuring Mickey and Minnie ears, and complete the look with fuzzy clogs by Crocs!

Cuddle up with loveable plush like Forky or Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in gingerbread form (bonus, they smell like gingerbread too!)! Then bake your own gingerbread with an adorable baking set complete with a bowl, spatula and cookie cutters of course, plus a matching apron and kitchen towels!

Disney Parks Silver and Gold Collection- Select products available beginning Nov. 2 at shopDisney.com, Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort & Walt Disney World Resort

Those looking to don their holiday finest, will love the all-new Silver and Gold collection featuring spirit jerseys, a Minnie Mouse ear headband and more. It’s perfect for walking in a winter wonderland or around the Parks!

Disney Parks x BaubleBar Holiday Collection – Available beginning Nov. 2 at the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort and online at shopDisney.com

Disney Parks x BaubleBar is back with an all-new collection themed to the holidays. Get ready to deck your ears, arms and neck with festive earrings, a sweet necklace and a jolly bracelet!

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa 2020 Holidays Collection- Coming this Nov. to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

Aloha Kalikimaka from Aulani! I don’t know about you but growing up in Florida, my holidays were spent lounging on the warm sand watching waves crash upon the shore and looks like our Disney friends over at Aulani Resort in Hawaii feel the same way! Check out this all-over print spirit jersey, plushie headband and colorful ornament featuring ‘Olu Mel and StellaLou.

Disneyland Paris 2020 Holidays Collection- Coming this Nov. to Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is preparing for the holidays with an assortment of adorable décor! My favorites include ornaments celebrating “Bambi” and “Brother Bear,” a figurine featuring Mickey and Friends caroling and the mischievous Stitch wishing everyone a ‘Merry Stitchmas’ on a mug perfect for hot cocoa.

Tokyo Disney Resort 2020 Holidays Collection- Coming Nov. 2 to Tokyo Disney Resort

Those located near Tokyo Disney Resort can prep for the holidays with new products to enjoy at the park and even at home including a peppermint-twisted take on the classic Minnie Mouse ear headband, an adorable Mickey ear Santa hat and even a huggable plush of Pooh himself.

Shanghai Disney Resort 2020 Holidays Collection- Coming Nov. 3 to Shanghai Disney Resort

Shanghai Disney Resort also has a plethora of holiday cheer with new Minnie Mouse ear headbands, plush and so much more waiting for you in a winter wonderland.

Get ready for festive fun this holiday season with the latest products from Disney Parks. We can’t wait to see you rock them and add them to your collections. Whether you’re at home or visiting one of our parks, we wish you a very happy holidays!

October 25, 2020
Disney’s Weddings Resume at Walt Disney World with New COVID-19 Guidelines

If the coronavirus pandemic put a halt to your Disney “I do’s,” then you’ll be excited to hear that Disney has announced that weddings have resumed as part of the phased re-opening at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

“The Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings team has been working diligently with our health and safety team, looking at our experiences in detail so our couples and wedding guests can celebrate in a magical way. With health and safety in mind, we have implemented a combination of new measures that consider the guidance of local government and health officials,” their website said.

Disney made the announcement on thier twitter account as you can see in the post below:

Love is worth celebrating! We are honored to announce weddings have resumed at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. 💕 Learn more: https://t.co/26UlArMtS8 ✨ #DisneyWeddings pic.twitter.com/b3tGJrT5x5
— Disney Weddings (@DisneyWeddings) October 23, 2020

The new safety measures include face coverings, which will be required for all guests and members of the wedding party. During the ceremony, the couple may be able to remove their face coverings for a limited period of time, while proper physical distancing can be maintained.

Their events will also include measures to promote physical distancing among guests and cast members. Upcoming weddings will have limited guest counts, and they are working with couples to find creative ways to set their ceremonies, receptions and more.

October 24, 2020
Downtown Disney Expanding into Disney California Adventure Starting Next Month
Disney announced that the Downtown Disney District will be expanded to include parts of Disney California Adventure park, Disneyland Resort starting next month.

While the Anaheim theme park itself remains closed, fans will be able to shop and eat at the stores and eateries that line Buena Vista Street, near the park’s entrance,

Take a look below at what you can discover – be sure to put these places on your shopping and dining list:
- Holiday shopping? Head to Elias & Co. The store is divided into distinct sections for men, women and children, so you’ll find something special for the entire family! At Julius Katz & Sons, peruse even more holiday merchandise and Disney-themed home décor. At Kingswell Camera Shop offers great gift-giving ideas like frames, photo albums and more. Buena Vista Street stores have a variety of your Disney favorites!
- If you are looking to tempt your taste buds with a snack, Trolley Treats offers classic candies, old-fashioned confections and all kinds of freshly made treats. Vending carts will offer popcorn, churros, ice cream and other “must-bite” treats.
- Swing by Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe for the enchanting sights and sounds of Buena Vista Street—and a cup of coffee or scrumptious artisan sandwich.
- Sit-down dining options include Carthay Circle Lounge, where you can unwind in our expanded outdoor seating area featuring an all-new menu of cocktails and dining. Smokejumpers Grill is serving up tasty American classics for lunch and dinner with a streamlined menu of burgers, fries, onion rings and craft beer, located just around the corner from Buena Vista Street. The primary way to place your order at this dining location is through mobile order on the Disneyland App.*
Only the shopping and dining experiences along Buena Vista Street will be accessible from the Downtown Disney District at this time, as Disney California Adventure park is currently closed.

Disney reminded guests that they will still need to follow the health and safety measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19, including social distancing requirements, temperature checks and mandated face mask for all visitors over the age of 2.
October 23, 2020
New Sorcerer Mickey Crocs from the ‘Wishes Come True Blue’ Collection are Too Cute

Disney is teaming up with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to celebrate 40 years of making dreams come true with their brand new “Wishes Come True Blue” color collection and the Sorcerer Mickey inspired Crocs are just adorable.

You’ll be the definitive twinkle toes in these glittering Crocs. Part of the Disney Parks Wishes Come True Blue Collection, they feature Crocs’ signature design with a sparkling silver crescent moon, stars, and Mickey icon so you’ll feel glamorous every step of the way.

This is the first-ever Disney color collection that celebrates and supports a nonprofit’s impact and ongoing collaboration with Disney. This collection features a wide variety of products from headwear and accessories to apparel and much more as you can see below:

Disneyland Mask by Spirit Jersey – Wishes Come True Blue – $12.99

Disneyland Spirit Jersey for Adults – Wishes Come True Blue – $69.99

Minnie Mouse Ear Headband – Wishes Come True Blue $29.99

Mickey Mouse Leggings for Women – Wishes Come True Blue – $39.99

Disney has helped Make-A-Wish grant 140,000 wishes around the world since 1980 through their theme parks, stores and television and movie studios.

Twenty-five percent of every item purchased from the collection from now until World Wish Day on April 29, 2021, up to $500,000, will go toward the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The items are available on ShopDisney.com.

October 22, 2020