Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap

A key piece of an attraction coming to New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park has arrived and it’s behind the blue tarp in the photo Walt Disney Imagineering shared with us this week. You’ve submitted some wonderful guesses and tomorrow we’ll reveal the answer – and a new photo! Be sure and check back here on the Disney Parks Blog.

And we celebrated this month’s three-year anniversary of “World of Color” with a glimpse of the show from a whole new, multi-colored perspective.

Here are some of the stories we worked on this week.

Check Out the ‘Hottest’ New Addition to Downtown Disney Marketplace at Walt Disney World Resort – Check out the Lava Lounge, the brand-new addition to Rainforest Café in Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort.

Imagineer Rolly Crump Looks Back on Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room on Its 50th Anniversary – Imagineer Rolly Crump recalls the development of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room in honor of its 50th anniversary.

Downtown Disney Summer Celebration Invites Disneyland Resort Guests to ‘Taste – Play – Live the Spirit of the Pacific Islands’ June 29 – Come visit the Downtown Disney Summer Celebration on June 29, featuring art, performances and food from the Pacific Islands.

Celebrate Summer Vacation with New Attire from Disney Parks – Take a look at the new shirts available to help celebrate your summer vacation at Disney Parks.

Disney Channel Stars Kick Off Monstrous Summer at Disney Parks – Stars from “Austin & Ally” and “Shake It Up” kick off a Monstrous Summer Disney Parks. Take a peek at their adventures!

Military Acts Perform at the Disneyland Resort in Honor of Independence Day – Be sure not to miss the largest collection of musical performances by military acts ever offered at the Disneyland Resort next week to celebrate Independence Day!

Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Construction Begins on Shanghai Disneyland Castle

Several months ago, we shared a first look at a model of Shanghai Disneyland Park that included Enchanted Storybook Castle, the iconic central attraction of the entire theme park. Today, we’re thrilled to announce that construction work on the castle is now underway.

In the photo, you’ll notice the first concrete piles that will support Enchanted Storybook Castle being installed at the site. When work is completed, it’ll be the world’s tallest and most interactive Disney castle.

The Castle will include entertainment, dining and performance spaces as well as a magnificent winding staircase in the heart of the castle that’ll lead guests on a “Once Upon a Time Adventure,” featuring Disney Princesses. It’ll also feature a boat ride attraction with a secret underground chamber, in which fountains of light will leap and dance in shimmering pools.

As work continues on Shanghai Disneyland Park, be sure to check the Disney Parks Blog for the latest updates.

Construction Begins on Shanghai Disneyland Castle by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Take 5: ‘The Lone Ranger’ at Disney Parks

Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ “The Lone Ranger,” set to hit theaters on July 3, rode into Disney California Adventure park last week for the world premiere event. Thousands of people came to the park to watch the stars from the film, including Johnny Depp, Armie Hammer and even equine star Silver, arrive for the big event. Check out the posts below to get an inside look at the world premiere, as well as merchandise and a drink that are all themed to the film.

Take 5: ‘The Lone Ranger’ at Disney Parks

1. Stars Shine Bright at Disney California Adventure Park for World Premiere of Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ ‘The Lone Ranger’ – Check out photos of Johnny Depp, Armie Hammer and other stars at the world premiere of “The Lone Ranger” at Disney California Adventure park.
2. On the Red Carpet for World Premiere of Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ ‘The Lone Ranger’ at Disney California Adventure Park – See what the stars had to say on the red carpet during the world premiere of “The Lone Ranger” at Disney California Adventure park.
3. Silver Makes Special Appearance at World Premiere of Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ ‘The Lone Ranger’ at Disney California Adventure Park – Enjoy an interview with equine star Silver and his trainer at the world premiere of “The Lone Ranger” at Disney California Adventure park.
4. ‘The Lone Ranger’ Merchandise Rides into Locations at Disney Parks – ”The Lone Ranger” rides into theaters on July 3, but our parks have the merchandise available for you today.
5. Sip a ‘Lone Ranger’ Slush at Disney Parks to Celebrate Film Release July 3 – Celebrate the premiere of Walt Disney Pictures’ “The Lone Ranger” with a cool root beer slush in a souvenir boot at Disney Parks!

Take 5: ‘The Lone Ranger’ at Disney Parks by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Stars Shine At Disney California Adventure Park, A Super Moon Rises at Epcot

You could say it’s been a “heavenly” week at Disney this week, with stars shining and super moons rising at our parks.

Here at Walt Disney World Resort, some of our most compelling images were snapped at Epcot, where a “super moon” was captured by Disney Photographer David Roark. Pretty amazing, huh?

And over at Disney California Adventure park, stars were lining up for the world premiere of “The Lone Ranger.” Be sure to click through George’s gallery for a full look at the event.

And speaking of “The Lone Ranger,” check out the selection of goodies you can now find at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

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This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Stars Shine At Disney California Adventure Park, A Super Moon Rises at Epcot

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This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Stars Shine At Disney California Adventure Park, A Super Moon Rises at Epcot by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

A Fireworks First: Fourth of July Fireworks Over Three Disney Castles

As Thomas Smith shared earlier today, our Fourth of July celebration officially kicks off here at Walt Disney World Resort on Monday, July 1, with nightly performances of “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.”

This year’s celebration will be made even more exciting by being the first Fourth of July that our guests can watch the fireworks burst above three different Disney castles, thanks to the addition of the attractions in New Fantasyland. Check out the photo above of Beast’s Castle, Cinderella Castle and Prince Eric’s Castle. Looks pretty amazing, doesn’t it?

Will you head to a Disney Park this Fourth of July week? If so, tell us in the “Comments” section below.

A Fireworks First: Fourth of July Fireworks Over Three Disney Castles by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Just One Place for Old-Fashioned, Hand-Dipped Ice Cream Bars at Disney California Adventure Park: Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream

Ah, summertime! The weather heats up and we head to Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure park for a true, old-fashioned treat: hand-dipped ice cream bars with our choice of sprinkles.

It’s the only eatery at Disneyland Resort that makes this delightful treat where you choose your bar (vanilla, chocolate or mixed berry sorbet), choose your chocolate (milk or dark) and choose your topping (chocolate chips, confetti Mickeys, blue raspberry bursts or rainbow sprinkles). Some guests go for “The Whole Herd,” which means a little bit of everything. I’m more of a purist, with a preference for vanilla in dark chocolate with rainbow sprinkles for a little crunch.

Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream also makes decadent sundaes in a cute Red Car Trolley, and you can get ice cream scooped in nine different flavors (but you also can head to Ghiradelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in Pacific Wharf for those treats). But for customized, hand-dipped ice cream indulgence on a hot summer day, Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream is it.

Have you tried a hand-dipped bar? What’s your favorite combination?

Just One Place for Old-Fashioned, Hand-Dipped Ice Cream Bars at Disney California Adventure Park: Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, First Resort in Hawai‘i to Obtain LEED Silver Certification

At Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, we have a strong focus on our island culture, which includes a responsibility to preserve and respect our `aina (land). That’s why we’re so proud that Aulani recently became the first resort in Hawai‘i to obtain LEED Silver certification through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for implementing environmentally friendly construction practices and building systems.

According to the USGBC website, LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system that provides independent, third-party verification that a building project meets the highest green building and performance measures. To obtain LEED certification, buildings must pass a rigorous checklist of sustainability points that include water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and awareness and education. LEED certification is also about being stewards of the environment with sensitivity to the impacts on our natural world.

Some of the environmental initiatives in place that allowed us to receive this honor include the use of waste heat for hot water needs. For instance, many people don’t realize that we harvest the heat emitted from the resort’s large chillers – which are used to keep the buildings cool – and divert it to heat the whirlpool spas and swimming pools. We also provide 34 electric car charging stations for plug-in vehicles within Aulani’s parking structure.

Even the location of our resort was taken into consideration for LEED certification. Building on an already developed master planned resort location meant that no trees needed to be cleared and no undeveloped lands were disturbed for Aulani.

As we look toward the future, and look forward to completing our enhancements in September, we will always keep the environment in mind and look for ways to be even more respectful of the land. It is our kuleana (responsibility and privilege).

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, First Resort in Hawai‘i to Obtain LEED Silver Certification by Elliot Mills: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

‘Limited Time Magic’ Sweets to Celebrate Independence Week at Disney Parks

Fourth of July themed sweets at Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are a special “Limited Time Magic” treat, on menus for just one week from July 1-7.

Here’s what you’ll find:

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, ever-popular cupcakes celebrate the Fourth of July with an all-American “apple pie” cupcake – vanilla cake with apple pie filling, caramel buttercream frosting and apple crisp topping. Topped off with a flourish of red, white and blue sprinkles and a red, white and blue white chocolate Mickey Mouse. The cupcakes are on the menu at ABC Commissary, Pizza Planet, Backlot Express, Studio Catering Co., Starring Rolls, Rosie’s All-American Café and Fairfax Fare. Cost is $4.99 and the cupcakes are one snack entitlement on the Disney Dining Plan.

At Sunshine Seasons Bakery in The Land Pavilion in Epcot Future World, a fancy Baked Alaska Mousse is on the menu, a red, white and blue concoction of raspberry, white chocolate and blueberry mousse dipped in meringue. Cost is $3.99 and it is one snack entitlement on the Disney Dining Plan.

Upstairs in The Land Pavilion, Garden Grill is adding an old-fashioned patriotic dessert – a skillet peach cobbler with vanilla whipped cream. It’s part of the family-style Chip ‘n Dales’ Harvest Feast dinner served nightly.

In the Magic Kingdom Park, StoryBook Treats is adding a red, white and blue strawberry shortcake to the menu – white shortcake, red strawberries and fresh blueberries for a touch of blue. Cost is $4.99 and is not dining plan eligible.

‘Limited Time Magic’ Sweets to Celebrate Independence Week at Disney Parks by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Rare ‘Behind-the-Magic’ Look at Walt Disney Imagineering Set for D23 Expo

If you’re one of the many readers who love our peeks at Walt Disney Imagineering, then you won’t believe what’s planned for this year’s D23 Expo. In honor of their 60th anniversary, Walt Disney Imagineering is hosting an “open house” that’ll offer fans an unprecedented look at its creative processes and a rare opportunity to see just how the magic is created.

D23 Expo guests will get an up-close look at an eclectic array of Imagineering’s creative minds – ride engineers, model builders, pre-visualization artists, special effects designers, inventors, and show animators. You’ll also have the chance to glimpse the “workspaces” of several project teams from around Disney’s global portfolio of parks and resorts.

And for the first time at the D23 Expo, Walt Disney Imagineering will be showcasing some of its most historical and revered concept art from its Art Library, including Herb Ryman’s original drawing of Disneyland park.

In the Disney Parks pavilion, D23 Expo guests will have the chance to explore Mickey’s of Glendale, an outlet of Walt Disney Imagineering’s employee-only store, to shop for unique souvenirs and collectibles and Walt Disney Imagineering merchandise not available anywhere else.

D23 Expo attendees will also be able to attend 12 unique presentations and panel discussions that will take fans on the incredible journey behind the latest Disney resorts, attractions, and entertainment including:

• The Art and Artistry of Aulani – Imagineers Joe Rohde and Jeanette Lomboy will share the authentic tapestry of art and stories found at Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa.
• Mayhem, Mischief, and Monkeys: The Magic of Mystic Manor – Join Imagineers Joe Lanzisero and others for the strange stories behind Hong Kong Disneyland’s Mystic Manor, the newest and one of the most sophisticated attractions ever built.
• Undiscovered Disneyland – Legendary Imagineer Tony Baxter shares rare and never-before-seen footage of the early days of Disneyland park, from design and construction through opening day.
• Broadcasts from Buena Vista Street – Enjoy the latest “soundtrack” from Buena Vista Street, featuring a live performance of Scary Symphony from radio station KBVS and a panel discussion led by Imagineers.
• Disney Ambassadors – Join current Disney Parks Ambassadors from around the world as they discuss this renowned program and share insights about its rich heritage, current outreach efforts, and the importance of sharing Disney goodwill.
• Voices of the Disney Parks – Back by popular demand, this panel of famous Disney voices will gather for an encore panel discussion, including recreations of some unforgettable Disney Parks sayings.
• Charles Phoenix Presents – Noted humorist and self-proclaimed “retro daddy” Charles Phoenix shares some of his favorite images from around Disney, featuring classic kitsch, clashing color schemes, and hairdos that truly defy gravity.

Disney’s D23 Expo is August 9-11 in Anaheim and tickets are now on sale. On Sunday, August 11, there will be a full day dedicated to the celebration of Walt Disney Imagineering’s 60th anniversary. The presentations in the 2,000-seat Stage 23 Theater with current and former Imagineers will explore a wide range of topics from working with Walt Disney himself, to the exploration of creativity, innovation, and humor in the parks, to a lively discussion of what it’s like to lead one of the world’s most creative organizations.

Let us know what you’re looking forward to in the comments below.

Rare ‘Behind-the-Magic’ Look at Walt Disney Imagineering Set for D23 Expo by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Enter the Monstrous Summer Sweepstakes for a Chance to Win a Disney Parks Vacation

Monstrous Summer is officially underway here at Disney Parks, and today I’ve got even more scary fun news to share with you. From now until August 31, 2013, you can play “Monsters University” and Disney Parks-themed games for a chance to win a Disney Parks vacation at either the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort!

Here’s how it works:

• Visit DisneyMonstrousSummer.com now through August 31, 2013.
• Pledge a fraternity or sorority from “Monsters University.”
• Play fun mini-games to help your fraternity or sorority dominate campus. Playing the games helps you earn bonus entries in the sweepstakes (but you don’t need to play to enter).
• • Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – Identify the Fearful: As a scarer, you’ll want to scare people that will give off the most scream energy. Learn how to identify the fearful with this video guessing game.
  • Haunted Mansion – Pair the Scare: It’s important to always use the right kind of scare. Through this door, you’ll scare guests by matching them with scary Haunted Mansion items that make them scream.
  • Cars Land or New Fantasyland – Darkness Training: Since most scaring takes place at night, darkness training is essential. Explore Cars Land or New Fantasyland in the light and then prove your monstrous memory skills in the dark!

One lucky person will win a family vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort. May the best monster win!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends Aug. 31, 2013. See Official Rules.

Enter the Monstrous Summer Sweepstakes for a Chance to Win a Disney Parks Vacation by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

‘Limited Time Magic’ Independence Week Celebration at Disney Parks Begins Monday

It’s almost time to kick off our weeklong celebration of America’s birthday at Disney Parks. So, we thought we’d share a quick reminder of what’s planned beginning on Monday at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

Yes, next week is the week to see amazing fireworks on both coasts. Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will be saluting our nation’s birth with “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” — a fireworks spectacular that rockets into the air every night during Independence Week.

• Magic Kingdom Park – The fireworks spectacular takes place at 9 p.m. on July 3 and 4, and 10 p.m. on July 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7.
• Disneyland park – The fireworks spectacular will be held each night at 9:30 p.m. during Independence Week – July 1-7.

Every evening at the Disneyland Resort, you can also wear a pair of illuminated Mouse Ears and “Glow with the Show” during performances of “Celebrate America!” and the patriotic pre-show to “World of Color” at Disney California Adventure park.

Also, expect to see plenty of patriotic merchandise available across the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, including red, white and blue Mickey T-shirts and plush, trading pins, light-up star necklaces and patriotic Duffy the Disney Bear costumes.

There is much more planned at the parks, and we included some of the details in our earlier Independence Week story.

Check back here later today to see Pam Brandon’s story featuring some of the treats on the menu from July 1-7.

‘Limited Time Magic’ Independence Week Celebration at Disney Parks Begins Monday by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

A Magical Delivery: Project Team Members Receive Key Piece of a New Disney Parks Attraction

Our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering just shared a photo of a very special delivery they received here the Walt Disney World Resort earlier this week. We’re told it’s a key piece of an attraction that’s coming to New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park.

Any idea as to what it might be? Submit your guesses in the “Comments” section below. Be sure to check back soon to see if your guess was correct!

A Magical Delivery: Project Team Members Receive Key Piece of a New Disney Parks Attraction by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Kids Can Learn To Golf ‘Disney-style’ This Summer at the Walt Disney World Resort

With the kids out of school for the summer, a good way to keep them active is by getting them involved in a sports camp. For instance, at the Walt Disney World Resort, there are summer junior golf camps available for kids ages 8-13. The camps include instruction on the basics of the game, touching on everything from pitching, chipping and putting to developing a good swing motion. There’s even on-course training.

In typical Disney fashion, the 5-day camps are designed to be fun and entertaining, and involve games and prizes. If your kid doesn’t have golf clubs, a set will be provided, plus there’s complimentary lunch and beverages. The week-long camps are directed by Arnold Palmer Golf Management’s PGA Director of Instruction, Michael Schlager, and cost $350 per child ($50 off for each additional child registered).

The camps, which run from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. daily, are available now through August 9 at any of Disney’s championship courses (Magnolia and Palm locations). To sign up your kid or for more information, stop by the pro shop at any Disney golf course or call (407) WDW-Golf (939-4653).

Kids Can Learn To Golf ‘Disney-style’ This Summer at the Walt Disney World Resort by Darrell Fry: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Disney Performing Arts Conservatory ‘Shakes It Up’

Last week at Disneyland Resort, students from across the country got the chance to hone their performances skills at the first ever Disney Performing Arts Conservatory. This five-day comprehensive series of workshops focused on all areas of the performing arts including: Acting, dancing, and vocals.

Led by entertainment professionals, students participated in master classes, went behind the scenes of beloved Disneyland Resort entertainment offerings, and learned what it’s like to have a career in the entertainment industry.

“I’ve grown up coming to Disneyland Resort, watching the dancers in the parades and on the Disney Channel,” said Shai Skrzynski of Juno, Alaska, “Disney has always been an inspiration for me. I’ve always wanted to work with Disney choreographers and the [conservatory] gives me that opportunity.”

The week of learning culminated with a live performance in front of an international audience of theme park guests. There was also a surprise visit by Disney Channel star Caroline Sunshine of “Shake It Up”. The actress, singer and dancer spent time answering students’ questions and talking about her career in the industry.

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Disney Performing Arts Conservatory ‘Shake It Up’

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If you’re interested in being a part of this incredible new program for individual performers, the next Disney Performing Arts Conservatory week is scheduled July 29 – August 2 ages for students ages 15 to 19.

To learn more, call 1-800-854-8671 or email dlr.dpaconservatory@disney.com

Disney Performing Arts Conservatory ‘Shakes It Up’ by Tim Hill: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog