Trade City USA

WDWNT on June 30, 2009

Even though the 2009 pin celebration, The Museum of Pintiquities was just last weekend, Disney didn’t waste any time in announcing next year’s pin celebration, Trade City USA. From the What’s HapPINing blog on DisneyPins.com:

One of the highlights was the announcement of Disney Pin Celebration 2010. The theme next year is Trade City, U.S.A.. Steven invited all long time and new residents of “Trade City” to help celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the founding of the city. He also explained that Trade City is an eclectic city (a cross between Radiator Springs and Main Street, U.S.A.®). The city is nestled in Trading Valley and features some amazing sites to see such as the world’s largest Ear Hat, world’s largest backer card and the world’s longest lanyard. The whole city is themed around trading. While the event will take place during the 10th Anniversary Celebration of Disney Pin Trading, the pins will be a mixture of things not necessarily related to the 10th Anniversary. Below is the logo created by Alex Maher and Tyler Dumas from Disney Design Group.

Steven said they haven’t finalized the date yet for this event but they are seriously considering mid-August (after the seasonal Passholder block-out date expires). He said to keep watching DisneyPins.com in a few weeks for that official date. He also mentioned that in the coming months Guests should look for road/traffic sign icons buried on various places on DisneyPins.com. When you click on the image, it will unlock a behind-the-scenes look at this event (similar to the “Find The Keys” campaign that was done for Disney Pin Celebration 2009).

Be sure to tune in to the only podcast dedicated to Disney Pin Trading, The Disney Pincast, in the coming months for information on Trade City USA.

Celebrate America at the Walt Disney World Resort

WDWNT on June 29, 2009

Tom Corless has checked in with us while waiting for his tour of Bay Lake Tower, with a few interesting tidbits of information. Firstly, the July 4th holiday schedule had some interesting additions to the Magic Kingdom entertainment lineup:

  • SpectroMagic will perform twice on July 4th at 10:30pm and 12:30am.
  • Celebrate a Dream Come True will also perform twice on July 4th at 12:00pm and its normal 3:00pm run (this is the first time anyone can ever remember the 3:00pm parade being performed twice so perhaps attendance is back to normal at least for this week).
  • UPDATE: The Magic Kingdom will now be open until 1:00am on July 4th.

As previously reported:

Guests celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World Resort will have a choice of fireworks shows as Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios present special pyrotechnics and Epcot adds a patriotic “tag” to its famous “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” spectacular. Here’s what’s in store:

  • Magic Kingdom – “Celebrate America Fireworks” will fill the sky at 9 pm. July 4 (guests who’d like to begin the celebratory weekend a day early can enjoy the special fireworks on July 3 at 9 p.m.).
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Special fireworks will be presented at 10 p.m. on July 4, providing guests with a bonus nighttime entertainment extravaganza to complement “Fantasmic!” (which will be at 9 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.). Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
  • Epcot – “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” which features dazzling special effects, colorful lasers, brilliant fireworks and fiery torches all choreographed to a musical score, becomes even more dynamic on July 4 as the normal show is supplemented with a patriotic finale. The performance begins at 10 p.m. Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom – No fireworks here (we wouldn’t want to disturb the animals’ rest). Guests can enjoy all the regular attractions and shows on July 4 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Tom also checked in with a quick piece of information regarding Stitch’s Supersonic Celebration. It appears though we have reports that this show is no more it is still appearing on the times guide only listing itself as “no showings”.

As always stay tuned to WDW News Today as we track this and other news from around the Walt Disney World Resort!

Preview a Vacation as You Wish

WDWNT on June 29, 2009

Disney Vacation Club will be giving Walt Disney World Annual Passholders a sneak preview of Bake Lake Tower in July. Here are the details:

From July 10-12, Disney Vacation Club invites you to attend “Vacation As You Wish,” a special sales presentation featuring an interactive show that reveals how you can save more, get more, and do more than you ever dreamed possible. Plus, you will be able to enjoy character greetings, tasty treats, exclusive giveaways, and a guided tour of the still-unopened Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Event Details:

  • Event Dates: July 10 -12, 2009
  • Event Times: July 10 – 7:00pm, July 11 – 3:00pm, July 12 – 3:00pm. Show will last approximately 2 hours.
  • Check-in Location: Ballroom of the Americas, Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
  • Parking: Contemporary Resort parking lot – be sure to mention you are a Passholder to be allowed in.
  • Check-in Time: 45 minutes prior to show time.

Additional Information:

  • Passholders need to sign up for the event, due to limited capacity.
  • Passholders need to bring their confirmation slip, their valid Disney pass and a photo ID at the time of check-in.

Celebrate Mom!

WDWNT on June 27, 2009

Moms from every state took part in the biggest Celebration of Moms in the history of Disney Parks. Winners of the Macy’s “Celebrate Mom” Sweepstakes traveled coast-to-coast on this magical adventure which began Monday June 22, 2009 with a sunrise breakfast on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Resort in California and ended Thursday June 25, 2009 with a sunset dinner at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

Walt Disney World News Roundup

WDWNT on June 27, 2009

Disney has released a few press releases over the past couple of days pertaining to different things going on around the Walt Disney World Resort right now. First up, 1,000 immigrants that will be sworn in as American citizens on July 3rd not only get that honor, but they will also get to preview the updated Hall of Presidents attraction:

In a stirring celebration of citizenship, more than 1,000 immigrants will gather on Main Street, U.S.A. July 3 to be “sworn in” as American citizens.

And as the country kicks off Independence Day weekend, these brand-new Americans will attend a premiere performance of the newest Walt Disney World attraction, a re-imagined Hall of Presidents, now featuring a lifelike Audio-Animatronics figure of President Barack Obama.

From more than 100 countries and ranging in age from 18 to 82, the immigrants will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States during a Friday morning ceremony jointly hosted by Disney Parks and Resorts and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

USCIS’s highest-ranking official will preside over the ceremony on the forecourt of Cinderella Castle.  The event will feature a welcoming address by Walt Disney World Resort President Meg Crofton, the presentation of the colors, the national anthem, the Oath of Allegiance and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Actor Andy Garcia – a naturalized citizen himself – will deliver a keynote address during the ceremony. Garcia, originally from Cuba, is an acclaimed actor known for roles in films as diverse as “The Untouchables,” “The Godfather: Part III” and “Oceans Eleven.”

“This year, Disney parks are asking our visitors, ‘What will you celebrate?’ ” Crofton said.  “And on a weekend when our entire nation celebrates its independence, we are honored to host – and celebrate – 1,000 individuals who are embracing American citizenship.”

New Citizens to Preview Revised Hall of Presidents

To cap a star-spangled morning, the new citizens and their family members will get to preview the Hall of Presidents attraction – which reopens July 4 in the Liberty Square area of Magic Kingdom.  The attraction has been closed since Election Day last November for a makeover that included installation of a lifelike Audio-Animatronics figure based on President Obama.

The recently installed figure of the country’s 44th chief executive – which comes to life with recognizable mannerisms and makes comments that were recorded recently at the White House – is only part of an eight-month makeover so significant that the iconic attraction in the park’s Liberty Square has been retitled Hall of Presidents: A Celebration of Liberty’s Leaders.  Other updates to the “re-Imagineered” attraction which has been entertaining Magic Kingdom guests since 1971:

A re-programmed Abraham Lincoln delivers arguably the greatest speech in the history of the presidency – the Gettysburg Address.

For the first time in the attraction’s history, George Washington stands and delivers a stirring speech.

Developed with the assistance of Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, the show now tells a moving story of the bond between the presidents and “We, the People,” focusing on the chief executives who have guided America through trying, turbulent times.

“Our goal with every major Disney attraction is to completely immerse our guests in a compelling story,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.  “The stories associated with the American presidency are some of the most engaging and relevant our guests will hear while they are with us.  And, like all great stories, these stories inspire, motivate and teach us to appreciate the challenges and personal triumph that comes with overcoming adversity.”

True to Walt Disney’s vision, Hall of Presidents features the appearance on stage of every United States president – life-sized, three-dimensional and fully animated. Seven presidents have been added to the “Hall” since the attraction opened during the presidency of Richard Nixon.

The figure of President Barack Obama is not only the seventh addition but also the most dynamic figure Disney has ever created. Disney Imagineers, who’ve been refining Audio-Animatronics technology since 1963, have discovered new ways to integrate an array of subtle movements and facial expressions into the figures. Imagineers also worked closely with White House staff to create realistic clothing and accessories worn by the figure in the show, right down to a lapel pin and watch.

Kathy Rogers, senior show producer for Walt Disney Imagineering, says the show pays particular tribute to the strength of the bond between the people and the president “that led us through the most troubling times in our nation’s history.

“We still present that ‘mighty cavalcade of history’ that Walt Disney originally envisioned,” Rogers says, referring to “headline moments” of America’s past that are depicted in the film, “but it is viewed through the lens of the presidency.”

The 25-minute show begins with the story of George Washington and the struggle to build a new nation. It continues through today, highlighting presidents who have reached out to the people during times of strife. Disney senior show writer and director Pam Fisher, who worked closely with Kearns Goodwin to develop the story, describes the revised Hall of Presidents as “a very human story – one that we hope strikes a chord with all guests.”

A soaring new musical score written by Emmy-winning composer Joel McNeely adds another emotional dimension to the experience.

The show’s impact is bolstered by the stirring performances of actor David Morse, who voices Washington, and the late veteran actor Royal Dano, who voices Lincoln. Morse played Washington in the award-winning HBO miniseries, “John Adams.” Dano was selected by Walt Disney himself to voice the first animated Lincoln figure, which debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair and later became part of the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln attraction at Disneyland in California. Obama’s speech, recorded in the White House Map Room, includes the presidential oath of office and his thoughts about “the American dream.”

In the tradition of earlier versions of the show, the rewritten story begins with a large-format movie, but this time it is projected in crystal-clear, high-definition video. Imagineers digitized many of the huge scenic paintings of historic America made for the original movie by Disney legends including Herb Ryman and Sam McKim. In addition, the team combed through the National Archives, Library of Congress, museums and private collections to acquire more than 130 new images ultimately woven into the show.

Imagineers enhanced the soundtrack with digital production and state-of-the-art speakers; they also upgraded the lighting with energy-efficient LED technology.

The new Hall of Presidents experience begins in the pre-show lobby, which has been transformed into an expanded gallery of presidential artifacts. The inaugural exhibit showcases the women behind the presidents. Large display cases exhibit dresses and personal objects worn by several First Ladies, including Edith Roosevelt (Teddy’s wife), Elizabeth Monroe and Nancy Reagan. The historical gallery also displays presidential portraits of Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson and other chief executives, plus two cases filled with personal artifacts of presidents including Gerald Ford, Franklin Roosevelt, Herbert Hoover and George Washington.

Presentations of the Hall of Presidents show will take place daily and are included with Magic Kingdom admission.

Read More about Walt Disney World News Roundup

Photos of Studio Disney 365

WDWNT on June 26, 2009

To go along with our post earlier today about the opening of Studio Disney 365 in Downtown Disney, here are some press photos from this new location:

The towers at the entrance to Studio Disney 365, and obviously the store’s signs, are new

A look inside the store reveals a blend of classic Disney Princess styles with modern day Disney Channel style designs

The make-over area

Stay tuned to Disneyland News Today this week for more coverage from Studio Disney 365.

Video From Day One of The Museum of Pin-Tiquities

WDWNT on June 26, 2009

Our own Tom Corless and Jose Castillo are currently attending the Museum of Pin-Tiquities pin trading event at World Showplace in Epcot. Jose managed to upload a quick video preview from the first day of the event yesterday to our WDWNTube video site:

Stay tuned to both WDW News Today and The Disney Pincast for continuing coverage from the Museum of Pin-Tiquities. Also be sure to follow the WDWNT Twitter account for the latest from the pin event and from around Walt Disney World.

Studio Disney 365 Now Open!

WDWNT on June 26, 2009

As scheduled, the newest offering at Downtown Disney, Studio Disney 365, is finally open. With the opening of this location Disney has released the following information:

Disneyland Resort Opens New Immersive Makeover Experience
Exclusively at Downtown Disney District

ANAHEIM, Calif. (June 26, 2009) – A stylish and unique makeover experience premiers at the Disneyland Resort with the debut of Studio Disney 365.  Opening June 26 in the Downtown Disney District, the dazzling new makeover boutique is a one-of-a-kind specialty store offering guests a unique chance to rock out like some of their favorite Disney Channel stars.

From the moment they step into the Studio Disney 365 “sound stage,” guests will see lights, cameras, and a lot of action!  Talent agents and stylists will help these “stars of tomorrow” undergo a complete transformation, getting them camera-ready to walk the carpet and preparing them for their grand entrance onto the set. Studio Disney 365 is the place to be for emerging stars, with so much to do and so much to see!

Studio Disney 365 guests can choose from five different Studio Star makeover packages.  All packages include a talent contract, choice of hair makeover, complete cosmetic makeover, deluxe make-up case, a downloadable photo file, a customized lanyard with photo and a photo shoot.

  • From The Top –Your hair, our unique style, $29.95.
  • Color Cue – Includes a unique twisted pony design and choice of up to four colored streaks, $39.95.
  • That’s A Wrap – Includes five front braids and high pony twists, your choice of faux hair tousled pony and a lace stretch headband, $49.95.
  • Spotlight – Includes two French braids wrapped to each side, your choice of faux hair pony tail and a flower hair accessory, $49.95.
  • Secret Star – Includes a Hannah Montana-inspired wig with sequined headband, rocker light-up headset and a themed face gem, $59.95.
  • Rock Star –Studio Disney 365 also features a special treatment for those upcoming rock stars.  The “Rock Star” look for boys is $18.95 plus tax and includes a slicked-back or spiked hairstyle with colored gel tips, smokey eyes, a downloadable photo file and a customized lanyard with photo.

Wardrobe options befitting a true superstar await guests at Studio Disney 365, where they can take center stage dressed from head to toe in today’s hottest fashions.*

  • Studio Rocker – Includes choice of trend T-shirt, fingerless gloves, tutu and colored ankle tights.
  • Trend Setter – Includes choice of trend T-shirt, sunglasses, scarf and fedora.
  • Scene Stealer – Includes complete Hannah Montana costume, featuring gold lame jacket, tank, black leggings, black and purple tutu and light-up guitar sticks.

Studio Star makeovers are designed for children ages three and older, who must be accompanied by an adult age 18 years or older.  Studio Disney 365 is located in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort.  Operating hours vary.  Advance reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 714/781-STYLE (714/781-7895).

* Wardrobe package price may vary based on style, size and price of apparel and accessories.  Subject to restrictions and change without notice.
www.downtowndisney.com/disneystudio365

Pocahontas and her New Forrest Friends?

WDWNT on June 26, 2009

It seems that Pocahontas isn’t completely out of a job at Camp Minnie-Mickey yet! Thanks to our good friend Tim Sayler over at the Walt Disney Boards we have been able to gather some information about a new and unique offering at Camp Minnie-Mickey inside of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The space that formerly housed Pocahontas and Her Forrest Friends is now called the Good Times Gathering Spot and houses an interactive meet and greet location which includes storytelling by Pocahontas as well as meet and greet opportunities with Pocahontas, Chip and Dale, Koda and Kenai, and Meeko, a DJ playing children’s music and other fun games and dances with the characters.

This offering came very quietly, so look for an official announcement sometime in the future if it proves popular. This is the second time we have seen an offering like this at Animal Kingdom come without an official announcement to welcome it (the first was with the new closing ceremony which was announced at least a month after it began). Thanks to Tim for these great photos, you can find more photos and his full report here.

Stay tuned to WDW News Today as we expect more details on this new offering when Tom returns from his trip at Walt Disney World next week.

Holiday Magic in June at the WDW Resort

WDWNT on June 25, 2009

While Tom is away at the WDW Resort we have this Press Release from the Walt Disney World Resort to share with you. The Resort has released some early information on this year’s holiday offerings, including the dates for this year’s Very Merry Chirstmas Party and what guests can expect as they celebrate the holiday season aboard the Disney Cruise Line:

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Trees glisten, snow flurries and Cinderella Castle sparkles during the winter wonderland season at Walt Disney World Resort.  By late November, themed décor will blanket the Vacation Kingdom as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney and 23 resorts unwrap their own sleighfuls of yuletide gaiety.

And with the year’s “What Will You Celebrate?,” guests can get in the spirit beginning

Nov. 10 by beholding twinkling lights of one of Disney’s newest holiday traditions – Castle Dreamlights! – in Magic Kingdom.  Donning their holiday finest, Cinderella and friends take to the Cinderella Castle stage daily for a dream-come-true, light-the-night moment. With 200,000 sparkling, jewel-like crystals adorning the iconic castle, the glistening light-show spectacular signals the beginning of Disney seasonal merriment.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom – Nov. 10 also marks the first of 19 select evenings when the theme park hosts the long-running Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. During this popular special-ticket event, guests are treated to “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade,” “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season” fireworks spectacular plus special shows featuring Disney characters decked out in their holiday finest, carolers, festive tree lightings and more.

The “Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” celebrates the festivities with dancing snowflakes, marching toy soldiers, a horse-drawn sleigh, enchanting floats and spirited characters all proceeding through the streets of the theme park in a merry and melodic cavalcade.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” Cinderella Castle beams brightly as the evening is capped with eye-popping fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening.  And while forecasters predict the first snowfall of the season will swirl a winter-like effect down Main Street, U.S.A, guests can take heart: there’s hot cocoa and cookies to add a warm spirit, plus apple slices and apple juice as the perfect trimming for a not-to-miss outing for the whole family.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates are: Nov. 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29 and Dec. 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18.  Advance tickets are suggested as some nights are expected to sell out. Advance tickets and information are available now.

Beginning Nov. 27, Walt Disney World Resort unwraps even more wintertime wonderment across property.  Here’s the lineup:

Epcot Presents Holidays Around the World – International holiday traditions unfold throughout World Showcase Nov. 27-Dec. 30 when storytellers such as Pere Noel in France, La Befana in Italy and Santa Claus in The American Adventure share the traditions of the season and spread the message of goodwill. As a “nightcap” to each day, “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” – a kaleidoscope of lasers, lights, fireworks and music – takes on a spirited holiday finale.

Candlelight Processional at Epcot – A heartfelt holiday tradition led by a mass choir and 50-piece live orchestra showcases the reason for the season Nov. 27-Dec. 30. Presented at America Gardens Theatre at 5, 6:45 and 8 p.m. nightly, Candlelight Processional features celebrity narrators who retell the joyous Christmas story. The narration is interspersed with memorable music. Past celebrity narrators include Angela Bassett, Courtney B. Vance, Abigail Breslin and Edward James Olmos.  Performances are included with Epcot admission, and guests are advised to arrive early.  Entertainment is subject to change without notice. Special dining packages that include guaranteed seating for this beloved event also are offered by calling 407/WDW-DINE.

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Bathed in bulbs of brilliance, the streets of America glow with millions of dancing lights and animated displays Nov. 27 through Jan. 3, 2010.  Amid gently falling snow, guests will bask in the glow as twirling carousels, melodic angels, colorful wreaths, marching toy soldiers and Santa and his reindeer move to high-energy music and 3-D effects, creating a dazzling symphony for the senses.  The spectacle actually starts behind the scenes while the summer temperatures are still on the rise in Florida as dozens of Disney “elves” begin their meticulous work on more than six miles of rope lights, 84 angels, 66 snow machines and more.

Holiday Happenings at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – “Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade” gets a holiday makeover Nov. 27 through Jan. 3, 2010, when it is magically transformed into “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade.” This whimsical spectacle is a theatrical showcase of characters, floats and puppetry with a holiday world-beat twist. Guests can meet Disney characters decked out in their holiday best at Camp Minnie-Mickey, which also features live seasonal entertainment, holiday photo opportunities and decorative Christmas trees.

Festival of the Seasons at Downtown Disney – There are enough toys to fill up Santa’s sleigh at stores such as Once Upon a Toy, World of Disney, Team Mickey Athletic Club and LEGO Imagination Center.  Guests can finish their holiday shopping at this one-stop mecca featuring something for everyone on their list – Tren-D, the newest designer boutique; Basin bath and body shop; Arribas Brothers; Disney’s Days of Christmas holiday shop; Fuego by Sosa Cigars and more– and enjoy the dazzling light display and holiday décor that adorns the Downtown Disney streets.

Nov. 17-Dec. 24.  And at Downtown Disney Marketplace, guests can meet Santa himself Nov. 17-26 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Nov. 27-Dec. 24 from noon to 10 p.m. (subject to change).

Christmas Confections Sweeten Vacation Kingdom – Each holiday season, Disney chefs deck the halls in fanciful fashion, creating larger-than-life displays from edible ingredients all across Walt Disney World Resort.  The sweet scent of gingerbread fills the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, where a life-sized Victorian gingerbread house is constructed for the holidays.  To create the 16-foot-high dream house, Walt Disney World pastry chefs use 1,050 pounds of honey, 600 pounds of powdered sugar, 800 pounds of flour, 140 pints of egg whites and 180 pounds of apricot glaze.  Meanwhile, at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, a life-size carousel silently spins in the lobby, featuring ponies made of chocolate and fondant, giant candy cane poles, handcrafted poinsettias and hand-painted portraits of famous Disney characters.

Sail Away to a Magical Winter Holiday with Disney Cruise Line – For a gift that’s both nautical and nice. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to both ships, with traditional “turkey day” fare to Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas.  Beginning Nov. 21, special stem-to-stern events on both ships include: nightly King Triton’s Tree Lighting of a glittering, three-deck-tall tree; family crafts such as decorating stockings, making holiday cards and creating animation cels; storytellers sharing tales of diverse holiday traditions; feasts in Disney’s three themed dining rooms; and “Til We Meet Again,” a special seasonal edition of Disney Cruise Line’s cheerful farewell on the final night of each cruise.

To make arrangements for a holiday vacation at Walt Disney World Resort or the Disney Cruise Line, visit our friends at Magical Travel at www.magicaltravel.com or 1-866-207-8387.