BREAKING: Images of AVATAR Theme Park Merchandise Leak; New Details of Animal Kingdom Land Emerge

There are still a lot of unanswered questions about exactly what guests can do and what they will see when they enter Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 2017. Today, an inside source has provided us our first look at some of the pins being developed for the attraction, revealing some interesting details about this project that have been shrouded in mystery.

ACE logo pin for Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom

ACE logo pin for Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The ACE logo pin in fact confirms that ACE will play a huge role in the experience on the “planet”. ACE was first introduced to guests at the exhibit previewing the AVATAR themed land at the 2015 D23 Expo. The following video is a good introduction to the company:

Mystery pin collection for Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park

Mystery pin collection for Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park

While we know we will be immersed in the story of AVATAR since many cast members working in the area will need to learn the fictional Na’vi language and culture, it also appears that Disney branding will not be clearly present on any of the merchandise packaging either. This will continue the illusion with guests that they are on Pandora and that ACE is actually their host for the experience, selling merchandise in their own gift stores on the planet. Cast members will reportedly be sporting ACE name tags as well, rather than Walt Disney World name tags that are worn in all other park areas.

Mystery pin collection for Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park

Mystery pin collection for Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park

While it may be us overthinking, some of the places and things showcased in the mystery pin set could very well be places and experiences for guests on Pandora:

  • Mo’ara – This is reportedly a location that will play a larger role in then AVATAR sequels, but is not mentioned in the first film nor any lore beyond that as of yet.
  • Navi Cultural Relations – Guests will get to meet the large Navi people in meet and greet type experiences (or even roaming around perhaps).
  • The Mountain Banshee Project – This will play a central roll in the Flight of Passage attraction where guests will ride aboard Banshees. Part of this project will allow humans to ride on these magnificent creatures, something usually only done by the Na’vi people.
  • The Drum Circle – This is a ceremony where Jake Sully became a member of the Na’Vi in the film. It is possible there will be an experience where guests can take part in a similar ceremony and become an honorary member of the people of Pandora.
  • The Pandora Cavern Tours – This could be its own walking experience, part of the queue for either of the two ride-through attractions in the land, or a scene in the Na’Vi River Journey ride.
Logo pin for the Flight of Passage, a ride in Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park

Logo pin for the Flight of Passage, a ride in Pandora: The World of AVATAR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park

While they may be just pins, they are honestly the first new piece of information on the project we have received in over a year. The existence of the final product also possibly means that the opening of the land isn’t very far away, perhaps 6 months or less at this point. Whatever the case may be, we will soon be getting more details at Destination D next month. Until then, let the speculation begin.

New Disney Parks Attraction Poster Calendar Coming for 2017

The Disney Parks and Resorts Deluxe Attraction Poster Calendar is returning for 2017!
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This year’s oversized calendar includes posters from classic Disney attractions such as Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress in Tomorrowland, or Disney destinations like the Disneyland Hotel at the Disneyland Resort. Attractions from Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland are also included.

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The attraction poster calendars were first introduced in fall 2013, and were inspired by the “Poster Art of Disney Parks” book by Walt Disney Imagineers Vanessa Hunt and Danny Handke.

Each poster in this calendar is suitable for display in a standard 12-inch by 18-inch frame. There are perforations above and below each poster for easy removal after its calendar month. The posters are printed on acid-free and lignin-free paper.

This calendar will be released in select merchandise locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. Once available, guests may also find the calendar using the Shop Disney Parks mobile app.

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PHOTOS: Preview Amazing New Mugs Coming Soon to Disney Parks

It seems like we have been finding new mugs around Walt Disney World every time we do one of out photo reports. Well, Disney isn’t done yet. Today, they offered a sneak preview of even more new mugs coming soon to Disney Parks.

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Several mugs of various shapes and sizes make up the “Mickey’s Really Swell Coffee” collection. These mugs include stylized images of Mickey and Minnie Mouse enjoying an afternoon together. The four mugs with geometric patterns look like they were transported directly from the 1960s, while newlyweds will be delighted to find new “Mr” and “Mrs” mugs.

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New character mugs include Humphrey the Bear, Kronk from Disney’s “The Emperor’s New Groove,” and the Fairy Godmother from Walt Disney’s “Cinderella.”

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Disney is also releasing a double-sided mug inspired by the Mayor from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” The Mayor’s removable hat is made from silicone. The Mr. Potato Head mug is inspired by the Toy Story Mania attraction.

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Two new mugs from the Twenty Eight & Main Collection are on the way: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and the Adventurer’s Club.

PHOTOS: Hundreds of Star Wars – Rogue One Items Arrive 9/30 at Disney Parks

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New merchandise celebrating Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is coming Disney Parks starting September 30, 2016. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story revolves around a rogue band of resistance fighters who unite for a daring mission to steal the Death Star plans and bring new hope to the galaxy. The film arrives in theaters on December 16, 2016. Here is an overview of items created especially for Disney Parks.

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Women will find a variety of stylish shirts featuring characters from the upcoming film including Jyn Erso or the Rebel Forces Tactical Droid, K-2SO. There is also apparel from the Her Universe collection including a most impressive dress covered with images of the Death Star.

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Other apparel items will include hooded sweatshirts, a sleeveless zip fleece with Jyn Erso’s image, and graphic tees.

 

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There is also a limited release Vinylmation Eachez of Shoretroopers. Each box contains one randomly selected figure with some variant figures being rarer to find than others.

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Guests who enjoy collecting pins will find a variety of open edition pins with images of characters, ships, or graphics from the film. There will also be a limited release, 14-pin mystery collection. Each box will contain two pins – 1 of 7 revealed pins that guests can see, and 1 of 7 mystery pins.

Fans of the Star Wars Droid Factory will find a set of four Astromech droid action figures inspired by the new film.

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For guests at Walt Disney World Resort, there are two limited release, retail MagicBands.

Finally, guests can create and personalize phone cases for select iPhone and Samsung devices with 15 new designs at the D-Tech on Demand stations in Disney Parks.

Select items from the Rogue One: A Star Wars Story are also available for purchase on the free Shop Disney Parks Mobile app.

At Disneyland Resort, guests may find select items in World of Disney and D-Street at Downtown Disney District; Emporium, The Star Trader, and Star Wars Launch Bay in Disneyland park; Elias & Company and Gone Hollywood in Disney California Adventure park; and Fantasia at Disneyland Hotel.

At Walt Disney World Resort, look for select items at World of Disney, Once Upon A Toy, and Star Wars Galactic Outpost at Disney Springs; Emporium and Merchant of Venus in Magic Kingdom Park; Mouse Gear at Epcot; Tatooine Traders, Star Wars Launch Bay, Legends of Hollywood, and Mickey’s of Hollywood in Disney’s Hollywood Studios; and Island Mercantile at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park.

Walt Disney World Bringing Back Higher Annual Pass Merchandise Discount

According to inside sources, most annual pass types for Walt Disney World be restoring a 20% merchandise discount.

The discount should go back into effect tomorrow, October 1st, 2016.

This discount was offered several years ago, but was reduced to just 10% a few years back. Disneyland Resort provides most annual passholders a 20% merchandise discount already.

Disney has yet to confirm the change, so it is just a rumor as of right now.

UPDATE: Major Annual Passholder Discounts Official

Yesterday we posted about the return of the 20% merchandise discount given to certain types of annual passes. Today, we’ve received a Passholder email that confirms what we had heard, plus dining discounts!

According to the email, Passholders can get 20% off Disney merchandise and 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages at table-service restaurants at the theme parks and Disney resort hotels (select are offering 20% off even) during all available meal periods. This offer extends through September 30, 2017.

There are some exclusions, including Victoria & Albert’s, Les Chefs de France, Monsieur Paul and Teppan Edo. You can visit DisneyWorld.com/PassBenefits for select Disney Springs table-service discounts.

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Vans x Toy Story Collection Releasing October 7

Just in time for the Fall, Vans is releasing a brand new collection inspired by Pixar’s beloved franchise, Toy Story.

Known simply as the Vans x Disney•Pixar Toy Story Collection, the line features shoes, clothes, and accessories with a tremendous amount of attention to detail. Just look at the bottom of the shoes, they say “Andy” on them!

All of Vans’ most iconic styles are getting their own unique layover, including a variety of shoes just for babies. Seriously though, check out those slip-ons inspired by the toys from Sid’s house. You just know Randy Newman is rocking a pair of those.

Clothing includes a couple of shits, socks, and a hat, while on the accessories side you’ve got two new back packs, which will look great while you’re in-line for bag check at the parks.

The Vans x Disney•Pixar Toy Story Collection will be out on October 7. It’s worth checking out if you have any money left from the 45th Anniversary merchandise.

 

“Indiana Jones Adventure” Ride Vehicle Funko Pop Vinyl Coming October 7th

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The Disney Parks Blog just announced today that a special “Indiana Jones Adventure Inspired” Funko Pop will be available for purchase through the Disney Parks online store on October 7th.

From Disney Parks Blog:

The next figure in our series of Disney Parks Exclusive Funko Pop! figures will be released on October 7, 2016 via the Disney Parks online store. Part of the Pop! Rides series, this figure features Indiana Jones in his rugged troop transport vehicle from the Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland park.

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This figure is number 19 in their Pop! Rides series, and includes the replica ride vehicle along with a removable Indiana Jones figure. Retail is $40.00 (plus tax).

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This item will only be sold on the Disney Parks online store.

This is great news for those people that wanted to get their hands on this years New York City Comic Con exclusive “Indy’s Ride” because this is the same one (minus the NYCC Limited Edition sticker). NYCC attendees had to jump through more obstacles than Indy himself to get the chance to bring this little guy home with them. You first had to register for a lotto several weeks ago and if by chance you were one of the lucky ones that were selected to participate in the purchase of Indy’s Ride, there was still no guarantee that you would receive one depending on the quantity that was available and how long the line was.

So here is your chance! Get these while they are hot! It does not appear that “Indy’s Ride” is available for preorder yet but DisneyParks online store should have it updated hopefully before October 7th.

VIDEO: Part 3 Of The Superfan Created #GOROGUE Video Series

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Time is running out for the heroes of the “Go Rogue” YouTube series, with just two installments left to outwit the Empire in this fan-created, toy-sized adventure. Written, directed and produced by a team of Star Wars superfans, the original four-part stop motion story stars key toys from the new “Rogue One” line before they hit stores Sept. 30. Chapter 3 is live on Star Wars YouTube.

The series follows the imagined adventures (no film spoilers!) of “Rogue One” toys as they try to track down the building instructions to the LEGO Star Wars Death Star set that have been misplaced by the Empire. Chapter 3 features the first look at the Hasbro RAPID FIRE™ IMPERIAL AT-ACT™ in action, which can be controlled remotely by smart device, as well as now familiar characters in new toy forms and scale sizes, such as Hasbro’s 3.75” action figures. Additionally, some special effects in Chapter 3 were created using the Hasbro Star Wars StudioFX™ App that launches for free on Sept. 30*.

Chapter 2 left off with Jyn Erso and an unlikely group of heroes recovering half of the Death Star building instructions. In Chapter 3, the Rebels seek the second instruction book on rain-soaked Eadu, but the Empire has beaten them to the prize. Will they be able to outsmart the scheming Director Krennic to escape with the instructions and their lives?

The four-part “Go Rogue” series has been embraced by fans worldwide, with the first two installments garnering more than 5 million views to date. The series kicks off a global UGC contest beginning Sept. 30 that asks fans to share their own “Rogue Stories.” More information is available at StarWars.com/GoRogue for ages 13+, and for parents of kids ages 8-12, have them visit Disney.com/MyRogueStory.

*About Hasbro Star Wars StudioFX™ App

Create your own Star Wars movie or #GoRogue UGC entry set in a galaxy far, far away with the Hasbro Star Wars StudioFX App! Recreate battle scenes with Hasbro figures and vehicles, and bring the action to life with visual and sound effects from the films. Simply stage the figures, choose which special effects to use, press record, and select when the effects are added to each scene. Unlock additional effects by collecting and scanning compatible Hasbro Star Wars products. With more than 50 unique effects, the Hasbro Star Wars StudioFX App gives fans the force needed to create their own Star Wars movie magic. Available for free on iOS and Android devices beginning Sept. 30.

PHOTOS, VIDEO: Shopping Guide to the Magic Kingdom 45th Anniversary Merchandise

While the Magic Kingdom will celebrate its 45th anniversary on October 1st, guests can already find a plethora of merchandise themed to the milestone at the Magic Kingdom park as of this week. We took a trip over to the Magic Kingdom to check out all of the items and have compiled a helpful shopping guide for you below. Many of these items should remain in-stock for several months, whole any limited edition item is subject to availability.

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Should you prefer a guided video tour to the photos below, we have that available for you as well:

The Magic Kingdom 45th Anniversary Merchandise Collection

45th Anniversary Crispy Treat, $4.45

45th Anniversary Crispy Treat, $4.45

45th Anniversary Ear Hat, $21.99

45th Anniversary Ear Hat, $21.99

45th Anniversary Ear Hat, $21.99

45th Anniversary Ear Hat, $21.99

45th Anniversary Antenna Topper, $5.99

45th Anniversary Antenna Topper, $5.99

45th Anniversary Antenna Topper, $5.99

45th Anniversary Antenna Topper, $5.99

45th Anniversary Photo Frame, $14.95

45th Anniversary Photo Frame, $14.95

45th Anniversary Photo Frame, $14.95

45th Anniversary Photo Frame, $14.95

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Mug, $14.99

45th Anniversary Pin, $12.99

45th Anniversary Pin, $12.99

45th Anniversary Pin, $9.99

45th Anniversary Pin, $9.99

45th Anniversary Mystery Pin Set 2-pack, $15.99

45th Anniversary Mystery Pin Set 2-pack, $15.99

45th Anniversary Mystery Pin Set 2-pack, $15.99

45th Anniversary Mystery Pin Set 2-pack, $15.99

45th Anniversary Pin, $12.99

45th Anniversary Pin, $12.99

45th Anniversary Keychain, $9.99

45th Anniversary Keychain, $9.99

45th Anniversary Candy Flag, $9.49

45th Anniversary Candy Flag, $9.49

45th Anniversary Candy Flag, $9.49

45th Anniversary Candy Flag, $9.49

45th Anniversary Candy Pen, $6.99

45th Anniversary Candy Pen, $6.99

45th Anniversary Candy Pen, $6.99

45th Anniversary Candy Pen, $6.99

45th Anniversary Lanyard Medal, $11.99

45th Anniversary Lanyard Medal, $11.99

45th Anniversary Tumbler, $19.99

45th Anniversary Tumbler, $19.99

45th Anniversary Tumbler, $19.99

45th Anniversary Tumbler, $19.99

45th Anniversary Assorted Chocolates, $22.49

45th Anniversary Assorted Chocolates, $22.49

45th Anniversary Assorted Chocolates, $22.49

45th Anniversary Assorted Chocolates, $22.49

45th Anniversary Light-Up Ear Hat Ornament, $24.99

45th Anniversary Light-Up Ear Hat Ornament, $24.99

45th Anniversary Light-Up Ear Hat Ornament, $24.99

45th Anniversary Light-Up Ear Hat Ornament, $24.99

45th Anniversary Light-Up Ear Hat Ornament, $24.99

45th Anniversary Light-Up Ear Hat Ornament, $24.99

45th Anniversary Light-Up Lanyard, $11.11

45th Anniversary Light-Up Lanyard, $11.11

45th Anniversary Light-Up Lanyard, $11.11

45th Anniversary Light-Up Lanyard, $11.11

45th Anniversary Mickey Plush, $19.99

45th Anniversary Mickey Plush, $19.99

45th Anniversary Minnie Plush, $19.99

45th Anniversary Minnie Plush, $19.99

45th Anniversary Girls T-Shirt, $29.99

45th Anniversary Girls T-Shirt, $29.99

45th Anniversary Girls T-Shirt, $29.99

45th Anniversary Girls T-Shirt, $29.99

45th Anniversary Kid's Sweatshirt, $39.95

45th Anniversary Kid’s Sweatshirt, $39.95

45th Anniversary Kid's Sweatshirt, $39.95

45th Anniversary Kid’s Sweatshirt, $39.95

45th Anniversary Kids t-shirt, $19.95

45th Anniversary Kids t-shirt, $19.95

45th Anniversary Magnet, $9.99

45th Anniversary Magnet, $9.99

45th Anniversary Magnet, $9.99

45th Anniversary Magnet, $9.99

45th Anniversary Baseball in Tin, $16.99

45th Anniversary Baseball in Tin, $16.99

45th Anniversary Baseball in Tin, $16.99

45th Anniversary Baseball in Tin, $16.99

45th Anniversary Baseball in Tin, $16.99

45th Anniversary Baseball in Tin, $16.99

45th Anniversary Ladies Long Sleeve Tee, $54.99

45th Anniversary Ladies Long Sleeve Tee, $54.99

45th Anniversary Ladies Tank Top, $29.99

45th Anniversary Ladies Tank Top, $29.99

45th Anniversary Ladies Tee, $36.99

45th Anniversary Ladies Tee, $36.99

45th Anniversary Boxers, $19.99

45th Anniversary Boxers, $19.99

45th Anniversary Lounge Pants, $34.99

45th Anniversary Lounge Pants, $34.99

45th Anniversary Phone Case, $29.99

45th Anniversary Phone Case, $29.99 (iPhone 6s only)

45th Anniversary Shot Glass, $9.95

45th Anniversary Shot Glass, $9.95

45th Anniversary Shot Glass, $9.95

45th Anniversary Shot Glass, $9.95

45th Anniversary T-Shirt, $24.99

45th Anniversary T-Shirt, $24.99

45th Anniversary T-Shirt, $24.99

45th Anniversary T-Shirt, $24.99

45th Anniversary T-Shirt, $24.99

45th Anniversary T-Shirt, $24.99

45th Anniversary Long Sleeve Shirt, $34.99

45th Anniversary Long Sleeve Shirt, $34.99

45th Anniversary Sweatshirt, $49.99

45th Anniversary Sweatshirt, $49.99

45th Anniversary Sweatshirt, $49.99

45th Anniversary Sweatshirt, $49.99

Dooney & Bourke 45th Anniversary Collection

Magic Kingdom 45th by Dooney & Bourke, $198.00

Magic Kingdom 45th by Dooney & Bourke, $198.00

Magic Kingdom 45th by Dooney & Bourke, $198.00

Magic Kingdom 45th by Dooney & Bourke, $198.00

Magic Kingdom 45th by Dooney & Bourke, $248.00

Magic Kingdom 45th by Dooney & Bourke, $248.00

D-Tech on Demand Phone Cases

D-Tech on Demand phone cases with 45th anniversary artwork are available at the Tomorrowland Light and Power Co. at the exit of Space Mountain for a variety of devices.

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

D-Tech on Demand Case, $29.99, $34.99 if personalized

Magic Kingdom 45th Limited Edition Coins

The Art of Disney is carrying two limited edition coins for the 45th anniversary.

Silver coin, $50.00, Bronze Coin, $100.00

Silver coin, $50.00, Bronze Coin, $100.00

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Both are limited to 1971 pieces,

Where to Shop

The 45th anniversary merchandise is available in many locations, but here are the most prevalent:

  • The Emporium
  • The Briar Patch
  • Big Top Souvenirs
  • Mickey’s Star Traders
  • Tomorrowland Light & Power Co. – D-Tech on Demand phone cases

A limited edition pin, MagicBand, and charm will be released on October 1st, 2016.