PHOTOS: Magic Kingdom Adds Alligator Warning Signs Inside Theme Park Areas

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

Disney’s resort hotels won’t be the only place guests will find the now infamous alligator and snake warning signs. The Rivers of America waterfront area in Frontierland and Liberty Square at the Magic Kingdom now has the signs posted about every 20-30 feet along the shoreline.

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This is the first appearance of the signs inside of a Walt Disney World theme park. There has been no word on if these signs will ever be themed in some way to fit their surroundings or if they will remain in this style. No other Walt Disney World theme parks have added the signs as of yet.

REVIEW: Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Revamps Menu, Favorites Change, New Items Added

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar at Disney Springs has been a hot spot amongst Disney fans to say the least, offering what many considered a very strong drink and food menu. I personally will drop by at least 2-3 times a month for a quick drink or bite, feeling this is really one of the best bar/restaurants on property. This week, a fair amount of the food menu was altered due to guest demand, so we decided to go and try it out.

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Gone are the Good Dates, Snack of Ra, and the original Tanis Tacos, replaced with Temple Tenderloin, Sallah’s Falafel, and the Tanis Tuna Tacos.

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The temporary menu in the front of the book sin’t all that has changed… the entire book is gone…

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Some drinks have descriptions on the front page.

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Most just have a name and a price.

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The Sallah’s Falafel was really great, especially with the spicy sauce on the side. There is naan bread under all of that, with guests expected to rip all of this up and eat it as a finger food. Luckily it tasted great because trying to eat this in this format was kind of a challenge. It should probably be served pre-cut or something of the sort.

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The Rolling Boulder Sliders were revamped for the most part, losing the spicy yogurt sauce in favor of brisket meatballs with a tomato-bacon jam. I would order the old sliders about 1-2 times a month, so I was pretty worried about this change, but these were good. They are radically different but in a good way. Gone is the spiciness, replaced with a more flavorful sauce that will likely be enjoyed by more guests overall.

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I was pretty excited about the Temple Tenderloin, but the flavor was very bland. The bread was fresh, but the rest of it just lacked any flavor to me. The fries underneath however, were spectacular. The fries are tossed in a bacon and chimichurri sauce, unique to say the least.

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The Tanis Tuna Tacos also lacked flavor, even after squeezing a generous amount of lime on them. The toppings and the tacos themselves tasted very fresh, but the main ingredient tasted non-existent honestly. 
Overall, the changes don’t make me went to stop visiting Jock Lindsey’s but they aren’t overly positive either. I prefer the original sliders, but the new ones are a solid adjustment. Otherwise, there wasn’t much outside of french fries and the falafel that I thought was particularity good. Hopefully they will continue to work on the menu until it evenly rounded out, but until then it’s still worth flying by for drinks and a bite.

MARVEL Avengers Alliance 2 Getting a Big Update

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

Fans of the popular mobile game Marvel: Avengers Alliance 2 will be pleased with the announcement of the game’s new update 1.3.0.

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The biggest news is the addition of Captain America 1901, an alternate timeline character that was known for defending America before the birth of the original Captain America. Captain America 1901 has new abilities such as a healing mist that comes from his shield, and a powerful punch that is powered by steam.

The update also brings a new feature known as AutoPlay. This mode allows player AI to control themselves and make their own moves, allowing for new ways to strategize gameplay.

Lastly, the update brings this month’s PVP Tournament, where players will fight to climb the ranks to victory. This month, the PVP Tournament reward will be Deathlok, a deadly and proficient cyborg.

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The update will also feature a newly designed in-game store, bug fixes, stability improvements, and optimization.

“Captain America: Civil War” Coming Home To Digital HD, Blu-ray & DVD This September

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

 

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Marvel has announced that “Captain America: Civil War” will be coming home to Digital HD on September 2nd and Blu-ray, 3D Blu-ray, Video On Demand and DVD on September 13th.

From Marvel:

Get the year’s biggest blockbuster with 60+ minutes of special features on Digital HD September 2 and on Blu-ray September 13!

“Captain America: Civil War” has conquered both audiences and critics, debuting to $179.1 million—the fifth-biggest domestic opening of all time—and earning a 90% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes.  “Captain America: Civil War” is the highest-grossing film of 2016 domestically, internationally and globally, earning more than $1.14 billion at the worldwide box office. It also continues Marvel Studios’ winning streak as the 13th consecutive film from the Marvel Cinematic Universe to debut at #1 at the domestic box office.

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When “Captain America: Civil War” arrives early on Digital HD, Digital 3D and Disney Movies Anywhere on Sept. 2 and on Blu-ray™ 3D, Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand on Sept. 13, viewers can join the nonstop action and pick their side—Team Cap, commanded by Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), or Team Iron Man, led by Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.).

Rogers and Stark are joined by a star-studded lineup of beloved Marvel Super Heroes, including Natasha Romanoff a.k.a. Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Bucky Barnes a.k.a. Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), Sam Wilson a.k.a. Falcon (Anthony Mackie) Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes a.k.a. War Machine (Don Cheadle), Clint Barton a.k.a. Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), Vision (Paul Bettany) and Wanda Maximoff a.k.a. Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen), along with new recruit Scott Lang a.k.a. Ant-Man (Paul Rudd) and joined by two new additions to the MCU: T’Challa a.k.a. Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) and Peter Parker a.k.a. Spider-Man (Tom Holland).

More than 60 minutes of thrilling, exclusive bonus material includes: an inside look at the evolution of lead characters Steve Rogers and Tony Stark, a behind-the-scenes exclusive on the making of “Captain America: Civil War,” never-before-seen deleted scenes and hilarious outtakes. Plus, home audiences can learn more about the latest additions to the MCU and get an exclusive first look at Marvel’s “Doctor Strange,” starring Benedict Cumberbatch, coming to theaters Nov. 4!

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Bonus features include*:

DIGITAL HD/3D & BLU-RAY:

  • United We Stand, Divided We Fall – The Making of Captain America: Civil War Part 1 & Part 2
  • Captain America: The Road to Civil War
  • Iron Man: The Road to Civil War
  • Gag Reel
  • Deleted & Extended Scenes
  • Audio Commentary
  • Open Your Mind: Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” – Exclusive Sneak Peek

*Bonus features may vary by retailer. The DVD does not include any bonus materials.

Source: Marvel

UPDATE: Universe of Energy at Epcot Likely to Close Soon for Guardians of the Galaxy Attraction

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

With some clarifying from inside sources, it seems likely that the Universe of Energy at Epcot will be closed to be replaced with a Guardians of the Galaxy attraction.

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While we had reported that it was Mission: SPACE that would be overlaid with a Guardians of the Galaxy theme, it seems that rumor was incorrect as instead there are currently plans for a lavish update to Mission: SPACE on hold from Walt Disney Imagineering. While we can’t say much about that project yet, it seems the Guardians of the Galaxy attraction that will replace the Universe of Energy has already been approved and is moving forward.

The Universe of Energy is an original pavilion from EPCOT Center, opening in 1982 and moderately updated to Ellen’s Energy Adventure in 1996. While the 1996 refurbishment changed the music and most film portions of the ride, it otherwise has remained very similar to the original attraction and has been enjoyed by Epcot guests for nearly 34 years now. Barring some unforeseen complications, it is likely the building will be gutted or demolished and replaced with a Guardians of the Galaxy attraction.

Rumors indicate that Bob Chapek, the new chairman at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, was key in the decision. Chapek spent 3.5  years in charge of Disney Consumer Products, but this is his first role in the Parks and Resorts division of the company.

The Universe of Energy could close as soon as the Fall of 2016, but Disney has made no announcement of any closure as of yet.

Stay tuned for any further developments should they become available.

“Wreck It Ralph 2” Coming To Theaters On March 9th, 2018!

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

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Walt Disney Animation Studios has just made it official that a sequel to “Wreck It Ralph” is in the works and will be released on March 9th, 2018. The news was announced on the Walt Disney Animation Facebook Page by director Rich Moore and co director Phil Johnston.  John C. Reilly, who voiced Wreck It Ralph in the original movie, officially broke the news .

Originally, the Disney Animated film “Gigantic” was to be released on March 9, 2018 but due to “Wreck It Ralph 2” now taking that slot, “Gigantic” will now be released on November 21, 2018.

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From Walt Disney Animation Studios:

WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS WELCOMES “WRECK-IT RALPH” BACK TO THE BIG SCREEN FOR A SMASHING SEQUEL

Original Voice Cast Members John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman Set to Return

Ralph Wrecks the Mobile Game Disney Crossy Road in Celebration of the Announcement 

Wreck-It Ralph is heading back to the big screen, and this time, he’s wrecking the internet. The Oscar®-nominated Walt Disney Animation Studios team from the original film is reteaming for the follow-up, including director Rich Moore (“Zootopia,” “The Simpsons”) and producer Clark Spencer (“Zootopia,” “Bolt”). Phil Johnston (writer, “Wreck-It Ralph,” “Zootopia,” “Cedar Rapids”) joins Moore as director and a writer on the project. John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman return as the bad-guy-turned-good, Ralph, and the girl with the game-winning glitch, Vanellope von Schweetz. The untitled sequel will hit theaters—literally—on March 9, 2018.

“From the moment we started working on the first ‘Wreck-It Ralph,’ we knew there were so many possibilities with these characters,” said Moore, who has been developing it since shortly after the release of the first film, and while directing this year’s critically-acclaimed hit “Zootopia” with Byron Howard. “This time, Ralph’s wrecking wreaks havoc on the Web—as only he can do. Characters we loved in the first film are back and we are ecstatic to be working with them—and the actors who voice them—once again.”

“The world of the internet is the perfect place to send Ralph and Vanellope,” said Johnston. “The scope and scale are so vast and the possibilities for comedy are endless.”

“Ralph is a character very near and dear to my heart,” added Reilly. “I’m really looking forward to playing the big lug again. Making the first ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ was one of the most special experiences I’ve ever had and I’m really looking forward to bringing him back to life. So many kids I’ve met all over the world are excited to see him again, too. They tell me all the time!”

When “Wreck-It Ralph” opened on Nov. 2, 2012, it turned in the highest opening weekend ever for a Walt Disney Animation Studios film at the time of release. Nominated for an Oscar® and Golden Globe® for best animated feature, “Wreck-It Ralph” won the PGA Award for outstanding producer of an animated theatrical motion picture as well as five Annie Awards, including best animated feature, director, cast and screenplay. The film was named best animated feature by the Broadcast Film Critics Association, earned outstanding achievement in casting for an animated feature by the Casting Society of America, and won the Kids’ Choice Award for favorite animated movie.

DISNEY CROSSY ROAD WRECKED

At 12 p.m. PT today, Disney’s hit mobile game, Disney Crossy Road, will be wrecked by Ralph in celebration of the announcement. As fans play through the 12 different Disney and Pixar worlds of Disney Crossy Road, Ralph may appear and ‘wreck’ part of their gameplay.

“Wreck-It Ralph has been one of the most popular worlds to play in Disney Crossy Road, so it made perfect sense to celebrate Ralph’s return by letting him go outside his world and ‘wreck’ other parts of the game,” said Chris Heatherly, SVP & GM, Disney Apps and Games. “We are big fans of the first film, as are our players, and can’t wait to see how the next chapter unfolds.”

“GIGANTIC” DATE-CHANGE

The animated feature “Gigantic,” originally announced as Disney’s March 9, 2018, release, will be released on November 21, 2018.

Source: Disney via Facebook

Disney’s Contemporary Resort Introducing New Year’s Eve Special Event to Ring in 2017

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

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Walt Disney World is once again testing the waters on a resort New Year’s Eve experience this year, this time hosting an event at Disney’s Contemporary Resort:

Starting at 8:00 PM on December 31, 2016, Disney Countdown to Midnight gives Guests like you the opportunity to ring in the New Year at an extraordinary event held within the convention center at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The fun begins as you head to the heart of the party in the Fantasia Ballroom, where you can indulge in an assortment of libations—including adult beverages for Guests 21 years of age and older—before moving and grooving to dance tunes from our interactive DJ, featuring music spanning from the ‘60s to today!

Then, after a delightful culinary experience boasting “best-of-the-best” bites and wine pairings from such restaurants as California Grill, Flying Fish Cafe, Cítricos and Narcoossee’s, you’re invited to soak up the sounds of the group Alter Ego as they perform their extravagant music- and dance-filled revue.

The evening continues as you stroll outside to catch a unique musical act playing songs of today—complete with a retro twist—and then concludes as the New Year’s Eve “Fantasy in the Sky” Fireworks Spectacular lights up the night from Magic Kingdom park, officially celebrating the arrival of 2017!

Plus, to help you capture memories along the way, be on the lookout for a variety of themed photo backdrops and props.

It’s all incredible, and it’s all included with the price of your ticket—but tickets are limited! Be sure to act soon before this special event sells out…

Disney Countdown to Midnight is an all-inclusive, all-ages event available for $225 per Guest (tax and gratuity included), and takes place from 8:00 PM on December 31, 2016 to 1:00 AM on January 1, 2017.

To purchase a ticket, you can book online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Candlelight Processional 2016 Packages On Sale Now, Narrators Announced, New Restaurants Added

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

Dining packages for 2016 Candlelight Processional are now on sale and Disney has announced most of the narrator lineup for 2016.

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Celebrity narrators this year include some returning favorites like contemporary Christian music singer Steven Curtis Chapman, actors Whoopi Goldberg and Neil Patrick Harris and newcomers like legendary baseball player Cal Ripken, Jr. Here’s the list of confirmations so far:

  • 11/25-27 – Steven Curtis Chapman
  • 11/28-12/1 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • 12/2-12/3 – Whoopi Goldberg
  • 12/4-12/12 – TBA
  • 12/13-12/15 – Meredith Vieira
  • 12/16-12/18 – TBA
  • 12/19-12/21 – Joe Morton
  • 12/22-12/27 – TBA
  • 12/28-12/30 – Cal Ripken, Jr.

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the American Gardens Theatre. These packages, available on select nights, include a meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.

This year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite Epcot restaurants like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk.

Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $27 plus tax per person for adults and $14 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $47 plus tax per person for adults and $20 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.

Click here to book Candlelight Processional dining packages or to find out more information, call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

Holidays Around the World, including the Candlelight Processional, run November 25 – December 30, 2016 at Epcot.

BREAKING: The Muppets Are Coming to Liberty Square at the Magic Kingdom in New Attraction

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

It has been a day of strange stories, but this one doesn’t even seem to be a rumor as testing is set to begin shortly…

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The Muppets are apparently coming to Liberty Square at the Magic Kingdom. The rather lengthy facade refurbishment of the Heritage House seems to have been for this new attraction which will have The Muppets teaching and interacting with guests concerning U.S. history. The Muppets characters, which were reportedly built in a collaboration between the Muppet Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering, will be appearing high above guests in the second story windows of Liberty Square.

We have no other info at this time, but as stated above, testing of the new attraction is imminent. Walt Disney World has not announced this attraction as of yet.

New Sand Sculpting Festival Announced at Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort

WDWNT on July 6, 2016

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For the first time, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort will host Sandtastic Weekends on August 26-28 and September 2-4. Open to both resort guests and the public, the event will feature activities for all ages, with the highlight being 100 tons of intricately sculpted sand art designed by award-winning world-class sculptors from Team Sandtastic and constructed right on the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort’s private beach.

The event will offer guests a variety of different ways to take part in the action, from watching the masterpieces being created up close to learning the tips and techniques of sand sculpting during a sand sculpting clinic. Those with a competitive side can take part in amateur sculpting contests or try to stump the professionals by giving suggestions for speed sculpting demonstrations, where a piece is created in just 10 minutes.

The fun will extend beyond the sand sculpting, with plenty of indoor and outdoor food selections featuring creations from the resort’s award-winning food and beverage team, including the resort’s own Phins and Feathers craft beer; games on the beach like corn hole and table tennis; a DJ; and to close the day, a campfire and s’mores.

The fun continues to Labor Day Monday, September 5, with special tributes to celebrate the Kickoff Classic college football game between Florida State and Ole Miss taking place in Orlando. Fans of each team will find a giant sand sculpture in honor of the game incorporating a tribute to both teams and the lights on the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort causeway will feature team colors. Coverage of the Kickoff Classic between the Florida State Seminoles and Ole Miss Rebels will be shown on an outdoor oversized projection screen.

Overnight accommodations during Sandtastic Weekends start at just $168 per night. To reserve a room or for more information, including a full schedule of events, please visit www.sandtasticweekends.com.

What: Sandtastic Weekends at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

Info: The first ever Sandtastic Weekends at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort on August 26-28 and September 2-4 will feature activities for guests of all ages, including sand sculpting classes, amateur sculpting contests, speed sculpting demonstrations, games like corn hole and table tennis, a DJ, campfire and s’mores and a movie under the stars. The event continues to Labor Day Monday, September 5, where football fans can watch the Kickoff Classic between the Florida State and Ole Miss on an oversized projection screen beginning at 7 p.m.

When: Friday, August 26 to Sunday, August 28 and Friday, September 2 to Sunday, September 4, 12-10:30 p.m. (for full schedule, check www.sandtasticweekends.com)

Where:  Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort Beach

 

Ticket Information:   Sandtastic Weekends are free and open to resort guests and the public. Overnight accommodations start $168 per night and can be made at https://www.swandolphin.com/sandtastic/stay

Parking at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is $18 for self-parking and $26 for valet.