Friday, April 29, 2016

‘Peter Pan’–Inspired Style for runDisney Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend

It's almost time to join the Disney fairies, Peter Pan and the Lost Boys for Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend presented by PANDORA Jewelry. This year, we're celebrating the fifth anniversary of Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend. I recently shared these pixie-dusted medals inspired by our friends from Pixie Hollow. With the event a week away, it's time to pack your bags!

Tinker Bell Inspired Green Kids Outfit at the runDisney Tinker Bell Half Marathon

Our runDisney Kids Races style is inspired by the star of the weekend, Tinker Bell herself! All you need is to add the perfect pair of fairy wings for your little one to take flight on the course.

Wendy Darling Inspired Blue Outift at the runDisney Tinker Bell Half Marathon

Wendy Darling is the inspiration for this blue ensemble from Champion and New Balance. Wendy wore all blue upon visiting the island of Never Land for the first time, and this outfit works perfectly for the Never Land 5K, Tinker Bell 10K or even our Half Marathon!

runDisney Tinker Bell Half Marathon Medal made by PANDORA Jewelry

Celebrate your victory with beautiful jewelry from PANDORA Jewelry!

Men's outfit for runDisney Tinker Bell Half Marathon

Peter Pan can fly without wings, and with this look you will soar right to the finish line.

What is on your packing list to bring for the weekend? Let us know at @runDisney on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #TinkHalf. Check out runDisney.com for more information regarding this and upcoming races!



First Look at Disney Cruise Line Panama Canal Special Itinerary Merchandise

It's been 11 years since I first sailed with Disney Cruise Line. It was in fact the very first re-positioning sailing through the Panama Canal aboard the Disney Magic. It felt like the cruise of a lifetime with memories that will last forever. Those who have sailed on the Disney Cruise Line fleet know exactly what I'm talking about. There's nothing like it! Having the opportunity to share these exciting adventures with you— along with special merchandise headed your way—is a dream come true. Setting sail beginning May 1 for a 14-night Panama Canal cruise from Miami is the Disney Wonder, as it voyages west to the port of San Diego, before starting the Alaskan season. Let's take a quick look at what some of our passengers, or perhaps it might even be you, can find aboard the Disney Wonder as part of this special repositioning.

Some of the souvenirs I remember picking up on my trip included a t-shirt, magnet, postcard and pin. I would definitely recommend the same if this is your first sailing too, but keep in mind that you will also find a Nike polo shirt, Nike baseball hat, wood ornament (shown above), and photo-real inspired items including tees, a mug and postcard.

First Look at Disney Cruise Line Panama Canal Special Itinerary Merchandise

All of these special itinerary items can be found at Treasure Ketch on Deck 4, while the pin will release at Preludes on Deck 4, Forward. Reminder: The merchandise tends to sell very quickly. So don't wait too long to pick out your special commemorative souvenir.

So what else can you look forward to? Sometimes we have the fortunate opportunity to bring aboard some of our talented Disney-inspired artists. Over the next several months, I'll be sharing some of those details with you and giving you a sneak peek at some of their new artwork created for our special itinerary sailings. Those who will join us for the re-positioning cruise should keep an eye out for several new pieces at Vista Gallery, Deck 4, Midship, from artist Daniel Killen, including "A Ball in the Surf," "The Beauties of El Arco," "Lock Logic Lightbulb Moment" and " Panama Pollera Panorama." Tip: If you are sailing out of San Diego on May 18, you will be accompanied by artist Miss Mindy whose new collection and live painting demonstration is filled with pixie power. I have a sneak peek for you below.

First Look at Disney Cruise Line Panama Canal Special Itinerary Merchandise

A couple of other fun facts you may or may not know is that our merchandise locations often host special artist showcases and trunk shows by notable brands as Sophia Fiori, Atlantis Gems, Bellarri, and Onofrio D'Oro, to name a few. But did you know that each ship also offers a variety of duty and tax free brands including Michael Kors, TAG Heuer, Tissot, Effy, as well as Dooney & Bourke? So on your next sailing be sure to check the Personal Navigator for special offerings.

I feel fortunate enough to say I will be able to see the Disney Wonder when she docks in San Diego, which means, I plan to get the scoop on special merchandise offerings associated with the Alaska sailings. Keep watching the Disney Parks Blog as we unveil what lies ahead for special itinerary merchandise, artist sailings and more.



Support Star Wars: Force for Change at Disney Parks Starting May 4, 2016

I'm happy to announce Star Wars: Force for Change returns to Disney Parks starting May 4, 2016.

Twenty-five percent of the retail sale price of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story T-Shirts will be donated to U.S. Fund for UNICEF in support of UNICEF Kid Power

This year, we will offer t-shirts for adults and youth that feature the logo for the upcoming film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. These shirts are the first products for the new film created especially for Disney Parks.

Twenty-five percent of the retail sale price of this product will be donated to U.S. Fund for UNICEF in support of UNICEF Kid Power. UNICEF Kid Power gives kids the power to save lives. By getting active with the UNICEF Kid Power Band, kids can go on missions, earn points and unlock therapeutic food packets for severely malnourished children around the world.

The shirts will be released at the following locations:

Disneyland Resort

Walt Disney World Resort

Treat Yourself to a Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cup Gourmet Apple at the Disneyland Resort

Caramel … Chocolate … Peanut Butter! Did that grab your attention? These are just some of the ingredients making up the gourmet treats for May at the Disneyland Resort! You may remember this particular treat from last year. Once again, you'll find the tart green apples smothered in creamy caramel, dipped in milk chocolate and then topped with pieces of peanut butter cup filled chocolate. Doesn't it sound amazing? Drizzled on top of this tasty treat is the perfect amount of peanut butter and sweet milk chocolate. I have no doubt you will savor each bite. Look for the gourmet bark to follow suit this month, it's a chocolate and peanut butter lover's dream.

Tempt your taste buds with these treats starting May 1 at Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A., and Pooh Corner in Critter Country at Disneyland park; Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure park; and Marceline's Confectionery in the Downtown Disney District.

As I mentioned in my recent post, each month I will share one of our new fudge flavors. Can you guess what this month's pick is? Peanut Butter Chocolate, of course!

Peanut Butter Fudge Gourmet Treat for May at Disneyland Resort

Share your favorite gourmet treats with us here on the Disney Parks Blog or @DisneyParks, @Disneyland and @DisneylandToday!



Room With A View: Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Our last "Room With A View" story showed off the incredible views from Disney's Yacht Club Resort. This time, we'll look inside a room just across the water—across the pool, that is! This peek into a fabulous room at Disney's Beach Club Resort showcases a relaxing view of the Stormalong Bay pool and will have you ready to dive right in to all of the fun this resort has to offer.

One step inside Room 4685 at Disney's Beach Club Resort instantly transports you into a serene, elegant haven that looks right out to the resort's expansive sand-bottomed pool.

The View of Stormalong Bay pool from Room 4685 at Disney's Beach Club Resort The View of Stormalong Bay pool from Room 4685 at Disney's Beach Club Resort

Decorated in sandy brown, tan and pale blue, the room gives off a casual New England-style elegance. There's room for up to five people with two queen beds and one day bed, making it a great room for a family getaway.

New England-Style Decoration at Disney's Beach Club Resort New England-Style Decoration at Disney's Beach Club Resort

There's a rejuvenating bathroom where the shower is a mix of beautiful tile and marble, with mosaic tile detail and a whimsical shower curtain where you may just spot a hidden Mickey in the bubbles!

New England-Style Decoration at Disney's Beach Club Resort New England-Style Decoration at Disney's Beach Club Resort

Everything from the sand dollar design in the linens, to the airy curtains, to the wavy swirls on the pillows gives a nod to a relaxing beach cottage. There are modern coastal touches like the silver shell and sea star drawer pulls, as well as decorative oyster shell inlay on the headboards. The TV, mini fridge and nightstand are all driftwood-inspired and each have multiple charging ports to keep all of your devices charged up.

New England-Style Decoration at Disney's Beach Club Resort New England-Style Decoration at Disney's Beach Club Resort

The artwork includes a finishing touch: An adorable print of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse enjoying a day at the beach, of course!



DIY Apples With Character: Minnie Mouse

Last week we shared a DIY tutorial on how to make the perfect Mickey Mouse character apples from Candy Cauldron at Disney Springs. And we teased that although the Mickey apple is super popular among guests, he surprisingly isn't the #1 character apple sold at the location.

Today we're happy to share a new tutorial of that #1 bestseller – it's actually Minnie Mouse!

Check out the video above for step-by-step directions on how to make this lovely treat.

Learn to make other candy apples from the Candy Cauldron with these tutorials:
DIY Apples With Character: Mickey Mouse
Halloween How-To: 'Witch Minnie' Candy Apples
Valentine's DIY: Make Disney Bride & Groom Candy Apples
Holiday How-To: Make Snowman Candy Apples



#DisneyKids: Star Wars Fun For Little Ones This Summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Over the past few weeks, we have shared videos featuring some of our young guests as they describe their experiences with Star Wars characters in the parks. It is so much fun to hear from them in their own words what it is like to train to become a Jedi, or meet everyone's favorite Wookiee, Chewbacca. They are so adorably enthusiastic.

Did you know that in addition to characters, there are even more ways to feel the force at Disney's Hollywood Studios this summer? We rounded up the must-do experiences this summer for families with little Star Wars fans. Check out those Darth Vader waffles!

Star Wars Fun For Little Ones This Summer at Walt Disney World Resort



Thursday, April 28, 2016

Tokyo Disney Resort Plans ‘Beauty & The Beast,’ ‘Big Hero 6’ Attractions

Earlier today, the Oriental Land Co, Ltd., announced plans for major new attractions and theme park areas that are set to open through the year 2020.

Tokyo Disneyland will Expand its Fantasyland to Include a New Area Inspired by the 'Beauty & The Beast' Film Tokyo Disneyland will Expand its Fantasyland to Include a New Area Inspired by the 'Beauty & The Beast' Film
Tokyo Disneyland will Expand its Fantasyland to Include a New Area Inspired by the 'Beauty & The Beast' Film Tokyo Disneyland will Expand its Fantasyland to Include a New Area Inspired by the 'Beauty & The Beast' Film

Tokyo Disneyland will expand its Fantasyland to include a new area inspired by "Beauty & The Beast" film, including a themed attraction, shop and restaurant. The yet-to-be-named attraction will allow guests to board "enchanted dishes" that dance in rhythm to the film's music. Guests will journey into Beast's Castle just in time to break the spell that will help Belle make Beast human again. The park's Fantasyland will also get a dedicated indoor theater for future live performances.

An Attraction Inspired by the film 'Big Hero 6' is Coming to Tomorrowland at Tokyo Disneyland

Other additions at Disneyland include an attraction inspired by the film "Big Hero 6" for Tomorrowland. In it, the lovable robot Baymax will invite guests to join their own "personal healthcare companion" on a musical whip ride that swings them around and around.

Minnie Mouse Will be the Star of a New Disney Character Greeting Location at Tokyo Disneyland

Minnie Mouse will be the star of a new Disney character greeting location planned for the park's Toontown area. There, guests can walk through Minnie's design studio and then meet her in person.

Soarin' Coming to Tokyo DisneySea Soarin' Coming to Tokyo DisneySea

Over at Tokyo DisneySea, the park will add Soarin' to its Mediterranean Harbor area. Similar to the attraction at Epcot and Disney California Adventure park guests will take in sights and scents as they journey over famous landscapes.



Disneyland Resort Horses Featured in Norco Horseweek Parade

Dedicated Disney Parks Blog followers might know that Disneyland Resort horses have participated in several parades in nearby Norco, Calif., known as Horsetown, U.S.A. Recently, Norco hosted its annual Horseweek with a series of events celebrating the rural lifestyle the town embodies, including a parade. Representing Disneyland Resort in the parade was Ambassador Jessica Bernard, riding in a vintage Frontierland stagecoach pulled by our Brabant draft horse team, Bug and Finn. Take a look at the video to see the horses being prepped for their parade appearance as well as shots from the parade itself.



Disney Parks After Dark: Mickey Topiary at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

This charming topiary was inspired by the Sorcerer Mickey scene in the film "Fantasia." In the film, Mickey borrows his master's hat and ends up accidentally getting into trouble when things get out of hand.

Looks like Sorcerer Mickey is making some magic in the skies tonight at Disney's Hollywood Studios.



Gruden’s QB Camp Welcomed Top Quarterbacks to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Coach Jon Gruden just wrapped up the seventh season of his QB Camp series, a signature element of ESPN's annual pre-NFL Draft coverage. During every episode, he spends time with each prospect in the film room and on the field. It is no surprise that this is the third consecutive year Coach Gruden returned to host it at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort.

Coach Gruden isn't new to the ESPN Complex. In fact, he held the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' training camp here in 2002, when the then-head coach led the team to victory in Super Bowl XXXVII.

We recently caught up with Gruden to talk about his experience here and the importance of youth football. Take a look:

Year after year, millions tune in to follow along as top ranked college athletes continue their pursuit to make it to the next level. And there's no better place to chase those dreams than at Walt Disney World Resort and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Here are some more moments we captured during Gruden's QB Camp. Be sure to tune into the NFL Draft tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET on ESPN.

Coach Jon Gruen Hosts His QB Camp Series at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort

Coach Jon Gruen Hosts His QB Camp Series at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort Coach Jon Gruen Hosts His QB Camp Series at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort

Coach Jon Gruen Hosts His QB Camp Series at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort



Come Celebrate All Things Star Wars at Disneyland Park on May the 4th

Are you a rebel looking for a place to commemorate May the 4th?

Disneyland park is the place to be on this special day as we celebrate Star Wars! You already know that Tomorrowland is filled with new galactic experiences like Star Wars Launch Bay and Hyperspace Mountain, and now on May 4, 2016, fans can join even more special celebrations!

Head over to Tomorrowland Theater for a special screening of an episode from the hit Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels. In the fan-favorite episode, "Shroud of Darkness," Kanan, Ezra and Ahsoka return to the Jedi Temple on Lothal to find out how the Inquisitors have continually been able to track the rebels. Seeking the advice of Yoda, voiced by Frank Oz, the three will experience powerful visions that reveal the future, the past and old friends long gone.

Jedi and Sith alike can find special commemorative merchandise and all-new Star Wars collector glasses. And be sure to capture your memories from the day at a unique, themed photo location.

Then the party jumps into lightspeed at 6 p.m. at the Galactic Grill Stage with a fan celebration, where Star Wars trivia and other special surprises will take place throughout the evening.

So join us, you will, for May the 4th and celebrate Star Wars at Disneyland park!



Authentic Details Bring to Life Pandora — The World of AVATAR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

As many of you know, there's an incredible lineup of new attractions and experiences coming to all four Walt Disney World theme parks this summer. And among our latest updates, we also looked further into the future and shared new details on how Pandora – The World of AVATAR will come to life at Disney's Animal Kingdom in 2017.

Bioluminescent Flora Details Coming to Pandora – The World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom

Imagineer Joe Rohde and Lightstorm Entertainment film producer Jon Landau shared a quick hint at what to expect in the new 12-acre land inspired by James Cameron's film "AVATAR" during a special presentation at the Walt Disney World Resort.

They showed how the land will take on new life at night with bioluminescent flora and special nighttime immersive programming that'll add a magical touch.

'Glowing' Ground Coming to Pandora – The World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom

And how you'll be transported to the world of Pandora – alive with amazing creatures and "glowing" ground beneath your feet.

Na'vi Artifacts Coming to Pandora – The World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom

You'll also notice realistic details during your adventures, including special Na'vi artifacts seen throughout the land.

"We want the world of Pandora to be believable," Jon said. "When visitors come to Pandora they'll experience and they'll believe — and they'll look at the world a little bit differently."

Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more details on Pandora – The World of AVATAR, including the spectacular "floating mountains" and thrilling attractions coming to the land: AVATAR Flight of Passage and the Na'vi River Journey.



Autopia Reopens at Disneyland Park, Powered by Honda

Are you ready to get behind the wheel again at Autopia? When the classic Disneyland park attraction returns tomorrow, April 29, it will be powered by Honda! This alliance brings a whole new look to this longtime guest favorite, with freshly painted cars and more. Check out the video below as we go behind-the-scenes to see how the cars have gotten a new look for their big return to the road.

The updates to Autopia will continue throughout the year, so be sure to visit again and again to see what's developing along the journey!



Disney Days of Past: Celebrating Arbor Day!

Just a friendly reminder that tomorrow is Arbor Day. In this flashback photo from 1975 we see Mickey Mouse, Chip & Dale planting a tree at Walt Disney World Resort. We have thousands of beautiful trees on property that are well cared for by our Horticulture department and Arborists. Take some time tomorrow to walk outside and enjoy nature. Maybe even hug a tree, or an Arborist!

Disney Days of Past: Celebrating Arbor Day!



Sailing the British Isles with Disney Cruise Line: Adventures in Invergordon, Scotland

Whether you choose to explore the legendary Loch Ness, ancient castles and battlefields, some of the world's most famous Scotch whisky distilleries, or the rugged Scottish highlands, your family is sure to enjoy Port Adventures in Invergordon, Scotland. Here are a few of my recommendations to have a unique Scottish experience…

Loch Ness Port Adventure with Disney Cruise Line

Loch Ness Insider's Guide and Cruise – The mystery of what's beneath the surface of Loch Ness draws visitors from all over the world. On this adventure, you'll discover the legend of the Loch Ness Monster at Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition before venturing out on the lake aboard a sonar-equipped research vessel. This one-of-a-kind excursion dives into the history and folklore of the elusive creature and details research projects undertaken on the lake. Even if the fabled monster, "Nessie," fails to appear on your excursion, the quest to learn about this giant sea creature is sure to fascinate the entire family. Another excursion, Monster Cake Decorating by Loch Ness, is a fun-filled, hands-on way to bring the legend to life for children during their Loch Ness Centre experience.

Romantic Eilean Donan Castle Port Adventure with Disney Cruise Line

Wild West Highlands and Romantic Eilean Donan Castle – Dozens of castles and ruins are within an easy drive of Invergordon. The highlight of this tour is the breathtakingly beautiful Eilean Donan Castle, featured in films and postcards, where you'll discover fascinating history at this 13th-century ancient landmark. Your journey also takes you to the Urquhart Castle ruins on the banks of the Loch Ness, through the impressive Victorian spa town of Strathpeffer and across stunning loch landscape and the wilderness of the Highlands – home to some of Scotland's most awe-inspiring scenery.

Golf Course at Royal Dornoch Port Adventure with Disney Cruise Line

Glenmorangie Whisky and Royal Dornoch – On this adventure just for adults, you'll be whisked away to historic towns and get a flavor of Scottish history and culture. First stop is to the ancient Royal Burgh of Tain, an attractive town featuring whisky-colored, sandstone buildings where you'll visit the Glenmorangie Distillery, which produces one of Scotland's best-loved malt whiskies. After a "cheers" to your time in Scotland with a taste of the precious golden elixir, the day continues at the enchanting Royal Dornoch, a 12th-century town with an exceptionally sunny climate, surrounded by sand dunes and home to miles of beaches and a championship golf course.

Up next, I'll take you to Le Havre, France, the gateway to Paris and a port of call on our British Isles cruises as we journey through the English Channel. Remember, when the ship's in port, venture ashore!