Tickets on Sale for Final Opportunity to Ride Original Tower of Terror

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

You can be among the final Guests to pass through the infamous Hollywood Tower Hotel at a swinging dessert party at The 13th Hour farewell event for the Tower of Terror at Disney California Adventure on January 1st, 2017.

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The event begins at 10:00 PM and goes until 1:00 AM on the eve before this attraction’s final day in operation. This glamourous gathering features live music and a delicious dessert buffet. And whenever you’re ready, grim brass-buttoned bellman will escort you to your car, where you’ll travel up, down―and into the Twilight Zone.

This elegant, after-hours party features:

  • Enjoyment of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in its original version for the duration of the party
  • Dessert buffet, coffee, soda and water
  • Entertainment provided by a debonair emcee and the plucky Silver Lake Sisters
  • Special photo locations
  • Signature non-alcoholic beverages and cocktails for an additional cost
  • Commemorative keepsake available for purchase
  • One of the last opportunities to purchase Twilight Zone Tower of Terror merchandise

This party will be a posh affair, so you’re encouraged to dress in your finest Hollywood Golden Age style. Fedoras for the gents and hats with veils for the ladies are welcome, but no masks at Disney’s request.

Tickets for adults and children ages 3 and older are $95.00 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Buy now by calling (714) 781-DINE or (714) 781-3463. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.

New Star Wars “Rogue One” Nametags, MagicBand 2, & More Coming This Month

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

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Steven Miller of Disney Parks Blog has revealed some upcoming Rogue One products that will be exclusive to Disney Parks coming this month. We also get our first look at a new limited edition Director Krennic inspired Magic Band 2.

From The Disney Parks Blog:

I’m happy to share a look at some of the latest Star Wars merchandise you’ll soon be able to find at Disney Parks starting this month.

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In early December, we will release several new character designs to the D-Tech on Demand stations at Disney Parks. At these stations, guests can create and personalize phone cases for select mobile phone devices.

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On December 16, we will release several new products to celebrate the film’s opening day.

Guests will find a limited release Vinylmation mystery set. There are 11 known characters in this series and one mystery chaser figure. You can either purchase individual mystery boxes containing one randomly selected figure each, or you can purchase an entire tray.

A new limited edition retail MagicBand 2 inspired by Director Krennic will also be released on opening day. This retail MagicBand will have an edition size of 2,000 and will be packaged in a decorative box.romctdp3805795

Guests should also look for two jumbo-sized pins in select merchandise locations. The hinged Death Star pin (top image) will have an edition size of 3,000, while the Rogue One character pin (bottom image) will have an edition size of 1,000.

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Finally, guests can personalize four new nametags by having their names written in Aurebesh, one of the alphabets used in the Star Wars universe, starting December 16. Two nametags – Darth Vader and Imperial logo – are limited release items created for Rogue One. We also made two nametags exclusive to Annual Passholders (a valid Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort Passholder ID or Premiere Pass and a photo ID is required to purchase).

Look for these nametags at Tomorrowlanding in Disneyland park and Gone Hollywood in Disney California Adventure park in California, or at Star Wars Launch Bay in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Merchant of Venus in Magic Kingdom Park in Florida.

Select items (excluding nametags and limited edition pins) from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story are also available for purchase on the free Shop Disney Parks Mobile app.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

VIDEO: New “Rogue One” Clip Reveals Krennick’s Conversation With Galen Erso

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

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A new clip from “Rogue One” was shown during last night’s Rogue One Special Event at Epcot that was hosted by The Disney Parks Blog. In this clip, we see Director Krennic asking Galen Erso to return to help complete the project that he had worked on. Galen is reluctant to return because he feels that The Empire has ulterior motives for his work. It also feels as though they may have once been friends.

Source: Disneyland Experience

Rivers of Light Delayed into 2017, Full List of New Additions for Disney World Next Year

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — The unveiling of a magical, mythical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and soaring Banshees anchors an exciting 2017 at Walt Disney World Resort – a year filled with new water park fun, a new festival for Epcot, more openings at Disney Springs, an awe-inspiring nighttime experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and much more.

Opening in summer 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Pandora-The World of Avatar will bring a variety of new experiences to the park, including a family-friendly attraction called Na’vi River Journey and new food & beverage and merchandise locations. Pongu Pongu (pictured here) will be a special drink location with a design that is as eclectic as its Expat owner. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Disney Parks)

Opening in summer 2017 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Pandora-The World of Avatar will bring a variety of new experiences to the park, including a family-friendly attraction called Na’vi River Journey and new food & beverage and merchandise locations. Pongu Pongu (pictured here) will be a special drink location with a design that is as eclectic as its Expat owner. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Disney Parks)

Here’s a roundup at what the new year has in store:

Pandora – The World of Avatar – A transformational experience unlike any other, Pandora – The World of Avatar, opens in summer 2017. In collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney is bringing to life the fantasy world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s epic film AVATAR, in a breathtaking new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Avatar Flight of Passage will send guests flying above the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee. Bioluminescent rainforests dramatically wrap around Na’vi River Journey, a family-friendly boat ride.

Hungry adventurers can recharge at Satu’li Canteen, the main dining location, or Pongu Pongu, a drink kiosk with a design as eclectic as its expat owner. Shoppers can stock up on Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits and more at Windtraders. “From the place making to the two extraordinary attractions that will be in the land…these promise to set new high-watermarks for the experiential magic we give our guests,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman, Disney Parks and Resorts.

More Additions to Disney Springs in 2017 – With the multi-year makeover of this hip, happening district for dining, shopping and entertainment in the homestretch, still more exciting openings are on tap for 2017. Great new food and beverage venues lead the way.

  • Paddlefish – Sleek and modern after a bow-to-stern transformation from the former Fulton’s Crab House, Paddlefish will serve fresh seafood, steaks and chops. Unique menu choices for seafood lovers include a build-your-own boil. A new rooftop lounge will serve up a late-night menu and shipshape views of the water and Disney Springs. Open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
  • Planet Hollywood Observatory – Longtime Downtown Disney-goers will remember the iconic domed restaurant that drew celebrities and fans of the Hollywood scene. The reborn space will be themed to stars of a different kind: a turn-of-the-20th-Century observatory serving up amazing burgers and sandwiches created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, and craft cocktails whose names are inspired by the planets and space travel. Movie memorabilia, video screens, contemporary music and themed merchandise complete the scene.
  • The Polite Pig – A sister restaurant to the Ravenous Pig, a favorite with Orlando locals, The Polite Pig will bring the same focus on genuine Florida cuisine to a broader global audience at Disney Springs. Lunch and dinner menus will feature a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program that serves all drinks on tap, including beer, wine and cocktails.
  • Wine Bar George – Orlando master sommelier George Miliotes uncorks his first Disney wine bar in a space reminiscent of a winemaker’s estate warmed by oak wood and cozy lighting. Small plates dominate the food menu but it will be the wines with a starring role: more than 100 selections both by the bottle and the glass in a range of varietals and vintages.

Home to four distinct neighborhoods, Disney Springs treats guests to a world of beautiful open-air promenades, flowing springs, arcing foot bridges and waterfront charm. Venues have doubled – to approximately 150.

New Family Raft Ride at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – Aboard this family-style raft adventure, guests will be immersed in the story of Captain Mary Oceaneer. Legend holds that this treasure hunter roamed the seven seas in search of undersea artifacts – until a rogue storm marooned her at Typhoon Lagoon. Guests gently ascend in treasure rafts, only to plunge into a whitewater adventure where they will encounter some of Mary’s deep sea booty. When it opens in spring 2017, it will be one of the longest attractions (2 minutes) at Disney’s Water Parks.

Rivers of Light – Coming in 2017, this powerful theatrical production takes Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests on a magnificent emotional journey – a visual mix of water, fire, nature and light choreographed to an original musical score. Continuing the park’s transformation from a day-into-nighttime experience, the amazing after-dark show on the banks of Discovery River celebrates the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world. With innovative and never-before-seen technology, Rivers of Light will be unlike any other production ever staged at Walt Disney World Resort.

Epcot International Festival of the Arts – Epcot welcomes an all-new festival playing winter weekends and treating guests to a triple scoop of artful fun. For six colorful weekends (Fridays through Mondays) Jan. 13-Feb. 20, visual, culinary and performing arts will take center stage. Each weekend will feature taste bud-tempting and eye-dazzling creations from the Disney culinary team. Meantime, exciting new art from various media will tempt art lovers. Because the artwork will change out, it’s a new art festival every weekend. In addition, the lagoon-side stage at American Gardens Theatre will pulse with favorite showtunes performed by Broadway talent. In a collaboration with Disney Theatrical, songs from some of Disney on Broadway’s award-winning shows including The Lion King, Newsies and Aladdin will be performed.

Unique All-New Experiences for Dining, Star Wars Fans – A new adventure in Disney dining and the ultimate Star Wars tour are being offered to guests in 2017.

Disney’s famed monorail is your connection in a movable feast called Highway in the Sky Dine-Around. The new experience gives guests priority boarding on the monorail for a distinctly Disney dining experience with stops for cocktails, appetizers, dinner and dessert. From a welcome cocktail at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, guests call at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (apps), Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (entree) and back to the Contemporary for dessert, cordials and coffee. Offered Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

For the ultimate Star Wars fan comes the ultimate tour. An all-new Star Wars Guided Tour is a seven-hour immersion in all current Star Wars experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Character greetings, themed dining, ride experiences, insider’s tours, dessert party and VIP viewing of Star Wars: a Galactic Spectacular are among highlights. Offered Mondays and Saturdays, it’s part of several new Star Wars additions announced in December 2016 for the park, including a new onstage sequence in the daytime experience “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.” Star Wars-themed lands are planned for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

New Cabins and Deluxe Villas coming to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – In 2017, a proposed new Disney Vacation Club Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, is scheduled to open, featuring new Resort accommodations that include plans for Deluxe Villas and unique waterfront cabins. Other enhancements coming to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge include a brand-new bar & grill, in addition to a quick-service restaurant. A sweeping re-imagination of the former Hidden Springs Pool, part of Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, is also scheduled to open in summer 2017. Named Boulder Ridge Cove, this area will feature an expanded sun deck and zero-depth-entry pool.

New Cheerleading, Dance Venue for ESPN Wide World of Sports – A first-of-its-kind venue specifically designed for the high-energy world of cheerleading and dance team competition opens its doors in 2017 at ESPN Wide World of Sports. The complex is collaborating with Varsity Spirit, the nation’s top cheerleading organization, in bringing the new multi-use venue to life. The venue will include a flexible design that allows for as many as four competition areas. With the ability to seat more than 8,000 guests, the sports and entertainment venue also can accommodate six regulation basketball courts, six regulation volleyball courts or be configured for concerts.

VIDEO: Disney Releases The “We Know The Way” Sequence From “Moana”

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

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Disney has released the full “We Know The Way” sequence from Disney’s MOANA featuring the song written and performed by Opetaia Foa’I and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

The Moana original motion picture soundtrack, the two-disc deluxe edition and the digital deluxe edition soundtrack are available wherever music is sold and streamed.

Disney’s “MOANA” is in U.S. theaters now! 

Source: Disney Music VEVO

First Look At Pixar’s “Coco” Including Concept Art , Story Details And Voice Cast

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

 

FAMILY TIES — In Disney•Pixar’s “Coco,” aspiring musician Miguel (voice of newcomer Anthony Gonzalez) feels a deep connection to his great grandmother, Mama Coco. Concept art visual design by Sharon Calahan and animation by Kristophe Vergne. Directed by Lee Unkrich (“Toy Story 3”), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist “Monsters University”) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (“Toy Story 3”), “Coco” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2017. ©2016 Disney•Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

FAMILY TIES — In Disney•Pixar’s “Coco,” aspiring musician Miguel (voice of newcomer Anthony Gonzalez) feels a deep connection to his great grandmother, Mama Coco. Concept art visual design by Sharon Calahan and animation by Kristophe Vergne. Directed by Lee Unkrich (“Toy Story 3”), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist “Monsters University”) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (“Toy Story 3”), “Coco” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2017.

The most recent issue of Entertainment Weekly reveals a lot of information regarding the upcoming Pixar film, “Coco”. Take a look at the first concept art, story details and who will be providing the voice work for the characters.

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From Entertainment Weekly:

First, the voice cast: Benjamin Bratt and Gael García Bernal will lead Coco alongside newcomer Anthony Gonzalez, who will voice the film’s main character, a 12-year-old Mexican boy named Miguel. Gonzalez was hired after serving as Miguel’s scratch voice during early development, proving himself indispensable to both the filmmakers and the character. Character actress Renée Victor also joins the cast as Abuelita, Miguel’s grandmother.

Coco follows the secret musical ambitions of Miguel, who resides in a lively, loud Mexican village but comes from a family of shoemakers that may be the town’s only music-hating household. For generations, the Riveras have banned music because they believe they’ve been cursed by it; as their family history goes, Miguel’s great-grandfather abandoned his wife decades earlier to follow his own dreams of performing, leaving Imelda (Miguel’s great-grandmother) to take control as the matriarch of the now-thriving Rivera line and declare music dead to the family forever.

But Miguel harbors a secret desire to seize his musical moment, inspired by his favorite singer of all time, the late Ernesto de la Cruz (Bratt). It’s only after Miguel discovers an amazing link between himself and De la Cruz that he takes action to emulate the famous singer and, in doing so, accidentally enters the Land of the Dead.

In the beautiful underworld, it’s not long until Miguel encounters the souls of his own family — generations’ worth of long-dead but no less vivacious Rivera ancestors, including great-grandmother Imelda. Still, given the opportunity to roam around the Land of the Dead, Miguel decides to track down De la Cruz himself. He teams up with another friendly (and skeletal) spirit — a trickster named Hector, voiced by Bernal — to find De la Cruz, earn his family’s blessing to perform, and return to the Land of the Living before time runs out.

Source: Entertainment Weekly

“Coco” will be released in theaters on November 22, 2017.

Star Wars Fireworks Added Through Conclusion of 2016

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

Despite stating that Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular would not return until 12/31, the spectacular has been added nightly starting December 16th at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Starting in summer 2016, a new Star Wars fireworks show, "Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular," will debut to guests at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The nightly show will combine fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that will turn the nearby Chinese Theater and other buildings into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, Starkiller Base and other Star Wars destinations. The show also will feature a tower of fire and spotlight beams, creating massive lightsabers in the sky. (Disney/Lucasfilm)

The fireworks are now scheduled at 10:30pm on the 16th, 9:30pm on December 17th, and at 6:15pm the 18th through the 30th.

Disney is expected to make additions from Rogue One to the show upon its return.

Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! will also continue to take place as scheduled.

Disneyland Welcomes Main Street Electrical Parade with After-Hours Event

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

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As posted today on the Disney Parks Blog:

Get ready to celebrate the return of a Disney Parks icon! As we told you earlier this year, the Main Street Electrical Parade is coming back to the place it began – Disneyland park – for a limited time, beginning January 20. Whether you’re making new memories or reliving favorite moments, this is a homecoming celebration you’ll want to share with family and friends.

This encore performance at Disneyland park will run nightly until June 18 – that’s 45 years after it first lit up Main Street, U.S.A., in 1972! During this limited-time celebration, guests will also enjoy special merchandise and food offerings inspired by the Main Street Electrical Parade – we’ll have more to share on those very soon.

Want to celebrate the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade in style? Join us on January 19 for a special, after-hours premiere event and be among the first to experience the return of this beloved parade. After the park closes, premiere event ticket holders will enjoy a night of exclusive access to most Disneyland park attractions and select restaurants, featuring a special performance of the Main Street Electrical Parade ahead of its official debut to the public. Tickets go on sale for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders tomorrow, Dec. 6, and to the general public on December 13. Information will be available on Disneyland.com beginning tomorrow.

Join us in January as we welcome the Main Street Electrical Parade home to Disneyland park for a limited time!

Stay tuned to WDWNT as we’ll bring you more details on this event as they are released.

PHOTOS: Star Wars Rogue One Exhibit Opens at Disney World, Disneyland

WDWNT on December 12, 2016

The Star Wars Launch Bay attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disneyland Park were updated over the weekend to include displays and an updated film for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

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Older display pieces from the former Episode VII exhibits have been moved into other existing showcases around the Star Wars Launch Bay.

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 The updated film at both attractions features an in-depth look at Rogue One (as well as several more mentions of the new Star Wars attractions coming to both coasts). Be sure to check it out the next time you visit either park.