Disneyland Resort – Page 54

Commemorative Merchandise for runDisney events in 2013

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By Steven Miller on the Disney Parks Blog:

The first part of 2013 is an exciting time for runDisney fans with two months of races at Disney Parks. I recently gave you a look at new Dooney & Bourke and Vinylmation items we created for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna. A few readers asked about additional items for the Tinker Bell Half Marathon atDisneyland Resort in mid-January and Disney’s Princess Half Marathon at Walt Disney World Resort in February. Here is a look at a few popular items that guests will find at the Expos for these events.

The Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend takes place on January 18-20, 2013, in California. We are releasing two pins for this weekend including a limited release logo pin for the half marathon, and a limited edition pin for the Never Land Family Fun Run 5K. Similar to the Walt Disney World Marathon, there will be three Dooney & Bourke handbags featuring a previously introduced Tinker Bell silhouette pattern. New this year, the team has attached a commemorative leather hangtag for this weekend’s event.

Fans attending Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend in Florida on February 22-24, 2013, will find three pins including a limited release logo pin, a limited edition pin that resembles the medal for this race, and a limited edition pin for the Mickey and Minnie Mouse Royal Family 5K. Like the Tinker Bell Half Marathon, three Dooney & Bourke handbags will also be released with a commemorative 2013 leather hangtag.

I was happy to see that several readers enjoyed the Vinylmation mini-medals. The Walt Disney World Marathon was the first time we offered a separate accessory item for a Vinylmation figure (I hope to see a figure decorated with all of the mini-medals one day). Look for the three-inch Mickey Mouse figure in California during the Tinker Bell Half Marathon along with a mini-medal accessory sold separately. In February, there will be a mini-medal for Disney’s Princess Half Marathon.

2012 Disneyland Resort Community Support

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

President Kalogridis wrote a letter regarding Disney VoluntEARs:

Dear Friends and Community Partners,

Throughout 2012, we celebrated together as the Disneyland Resort completed its second-largest expansion since our gates first opened in 1955. While we focused tirelessly on the Grand Reopening of Disney California Adventure, we were equally vigilant about identifying and addressing the needs of our community, from supporting Anaheim youth programs to launching The Walt Disney Company’s Heroes Work Here initiative, which provides career opportunities for veterans.

Continuing in the philanthropic tradition of our company, we proudly supported our long-standing partners,CHOC Children’s and KaBOOM!, helping to ensure that generations of children will have access to state-of-the-art health care in Orange County and much-needed play spaces. In an effort to encourage healthier lifestyles, we planted community gardens and created Spanish-language videos to promote healthy cooking. Our Disney VoluntEARS, who will celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2013, were as active as ever – contributing more than 92,000 hours of volunteer time to local organizations. These are just a few of the ways in which we connected with our community and addressed real needs to enrich the lives of our neighbors – amounting to more than $16 million in volunteer hours, cash and in-kind donations.

As Orange County’s largest employer, we are committed to promoting growth in Southern California; adding 5,000 new jobs and generating $19 billion in economic activity during the past five years. We are optimistic about the year ahead and look forward to your continued partnership. On behalf of our 25,000 cast members who live and work in the community, thank you for being part of our family. We are truly honored to be a part of yours!

George A. Kalogridis
President
Disneyland Resort

Full Details Of What Is Inside Fantasy Faire Opening This Spring

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

Some details have emerged surrounding the new land set to open this spring in Fantasyland, Fantasy Faire.

Royal Hall

We have known that Fantasy Faire will contain the new princess meet and greet location for the park but we now know the location is called Royal Hall. This meet & greet is going to be very similar to what will be opening in Florida later this year, Princess Fairytale Hall.

The castle-like entrance will feature walls of stone and stained glass windows leading to a large, high-ceilinged room where portraits of the princesses adorn the walls. When summoned, Magic Kingdom guests will proceed to elegantly furnished chambers to meet the princesses.

Maurice’s Treats

We have also leaned the name of the food venue for the area, Maurice’s Treats. We don’t know any details at the moment, but we assume it will be similar in someway to Gaston’s Tavern at the Magic Kingdom. All I can say is I hope we get pork shanks in Disneyland.

Two New Stage Shows

Mickey And The Magical Map isn’t the only new stage show coming to Disneyland Park this year.

Guests can enjoy one of two stage shows in a new theater fit for royalty.

We know very little about these two shows at the moment although there was a casting call sent out recently looking for performers for these two shows.

These performers will play multiple roles as they present classic Disney tales in a fast-paced and fun-filled show! Crisp comedic timing is a must. Actors need to move well and be able to perform in a vaudeville style.

We do also know that one of these shows will be very similar to the storytelling experience that opened in Florida, Enchanted Tales With Belle.

The Fantasy Faire Stage will be a new entertainment venue where the stories of Disney’s fairy tale heroes and heroines will be brought to life, letting guests become part of the story as well.

Also when Fantasy Faire was announced, it was made clear that the swing dancing and evening bands would be returning to the stage once it reopens.

Fairytale Treasures

The final bit of info we have received is that the merchandise location in Fantasy Faire is called Fairytale Treasures. All we know as of right now is that it is called Fairytale Treasures and nothing beyond that. Of course with New Fantasyland in Florida, we can assume is will be something like the newly opened Bonjour Village Gifts.

As we edge closer and closer to the opening, stay tuned to Disneyland News Today as more details arise.

Larry Delceg’s DLR 1/4/2013 Photo Report

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

Photographer Larry Delceg and his family went to the Disneyland Resort on the 4th of January. He was able to capture the final holiday magic and the first of limited time magic. They were also able to capture some of the final runs of Thunder Mountain before it goes through a sixth month renovation. Enjoy!

Cast members were present to provide face painting for the children.

The Three Kings Festival (Dia De Reyes) was celebrated at Big Thunder Ranch on January 4th, 5th and 6th. This festival of the Epiphany recognizes the historic visit of three foreign kings who came to honor Jesus. Christians celebrate this event because it symbolizes that the gift of life in Christ is for all people and all nations. Hispanic culture especially prizes this holiday, and many Spanish speakers were present – enthusiastically participating in the festivities. It was a unique Disney event and a truly wonderful experience.

For more information on the Three Kings Festival… just read this sign!

Cast members were present to provide face painting for the children.

The grammy award winning “Mariachi Divas” performed periodically throughout the day. Performers at Disneyland are always exceptional, and the level of talent demonstrated by this group was especially impressive.

Have you ever tried playing the bass while singing?

Mickey and Minnie demonstrated some fine dance moves.

Little princesses became part of the show.

Not to be mistaken for “Woody”, cast member Victor from San Juan Puerto Rico enthusiastically greeted guests.

Word is getting out that Earl of Sandwich is now open in Downtown Disney. Time for an in-depth photo report!

Around noon, wait time to the register was almost exactly 15 minutes.

Unfortunately, the books were not available for reading while in line...

A close-up of the highly reflective menu...

The bread is baked fresh every morning.

On January 4th, John was not personally present to make our sandwiches.

Step 1: A first time customer is preparing to unwrap her warm prize...

Step 3: Moments before eating, this is what your “Italian” will look like. It was amazing.

Â “Full Montegue”

Shortly before you consume it, this is what your

The Full Montegue. Photographer Larry Delceg rated it as “It actually may have been the best hot sandwich ever.”

Picnic table style outdoor seating. This is perfect if you like sitting with people you've never met before.

Legend has it that a ghost mine train can be spotted in these here hills. And these here photos were taken three days before that train disappeared for a long-term refurb project which will extend through most of 2013…

Last glimpse of the runaway ghost train until October 31, 2013…

The end of Christmas 2012: On January 4th, the following photos were taken just two days before 2012 Christmas decorations would be removed from the Disneyland Parks.First we have Cars Land...

New Orleans Square is stunning at Christmas time.

Shortly after the Disneyland fireworks show on the evening of January 4th, a freak snowstorm struck Anaheim. Fortunately for travelers, the frozen precipitation subsided after only a few minutes.

Like searching for the holy grail... another attempt at the perfect castle photo. And the end of another magical Disneyland vacation...

Conner Purzycki’s 1/9/13 Photo Report

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

Conner went to the Disneyland resort on the 9th of this month. He was able to capture photo’s of the Main Street U.S.A train station refurbishment and continued construction on Royal Hall. He also grabbed photo’s of all the renovations and entertainment happening in Frontierland. Conner captured some photos of Muppet Vision 3D which recently returned.

Main Street U.S.A Train Station in construction.

Royal Hall Construction

Royal Hall, formally known as fantasy faire, is set to open spring 2013.

Castle starts to peak above the walls.

While construction continues in Frontierland, shops remain open.

Big Thunder Mountain went under refurbishment Jan 8th, 2012 and will reopen in fall of 2013.

Big Thunder Tail is closed some days of the week to assist with Thunder Mountain construction.

Sinage of Big Thunder Trail closing from Fantasyland.

Mark Twain is under refurbishment.

Haunted Mansion closed to take down holiday overlay.

Billy and the Hillbillies playing to excite guests about the Golden Horseshoe Revue.

Muppet Vision 3D back from vacation! Kodak signage soon to be removed due to Kodak not renewing their sponsorship.

Tim Alcoser’s 1/10/13 Photo Report (Special Golden Horseshoe Photos!)

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

Tim Alcoser went to the Disneyland Resort on the 10th of January. He captured limited magic of the Salute to the Golden Horseshoe Revue and continuedÂ construction at the resort. He reported:

I headed to the Disneyland Resort with Connor Purzycki to see the first public showing of the Golden Horseshoe Revue and the first of the many to come Limited Time Magic guests will get to enjoy this year. There are a lot of ride closures and refurbishments around the resort as is typical for this slow time of year, including Fantasmic. Princess Fantasy Faire is coming along very nice. Most of the Christmas decorations are down already, including the Christmas trees at DCA and Disneyland. Enjoy!

– Tim Alcoser

If you purchase multi-day tickets, these cast members are taking your picture with a small cell phone like device before you enter the parks.This is to fight multi-day ticket scammers who buy tickets for several days and “rent” days out to people. Not against the law, but in direct violation of Disney policy.

There was already a line at park opening to reserve a spot to see the Golden Horseshoe Revue.

The line wasn’t too long, but it took a long time to get through because guests needed to sign a waiver that they may be filmed.

The Golden Horseshoe had several cameramen on hand.

The band comes out in preparation for show start.

The Golden Horseshoe had several cameramen on hand.

She reflected light unto unsuspecting male guests and made her comments on some.

“Your single? No wonder your so happy” ~ Ms. Lily.

Lots of guest interaction.

The fun is not limited to the stage.

Main Street Station under refurbishment. You cannot exit or enter the train from this location at this time.Primeval World and Grand Canyon Diorama are open.

Fossil shop in Downtown Disney under refurbishment.

Cold but beautiful day at Disneyland. High of about 55 degrees.

Movie advertising inside Innoventions.

Disneyland Limited steams into Toontown Station.

Haunted Mansion Holiday decorations being taken down.

Mark Twain being repainted.

Work being done on Fantasmic.

The line for the Golden Horseshoe Revue remained long throughout the day.

VineyardsÂ at CaliforniaÂ Adventure.

Christmas trees and most Christmas decorations are down.

Video: New Instant Concert!… Just Add Water With Main Street Electrical Parade Music

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

Watch as Paradise Bay comes to life with the symphonic sounds of the Main Street Electrical Parade’s Baroque Hoedown. It appears that the show can do a different set of songs when Maestro Goofy is unavailable to conduct the fountains.

The music is from an album recored by The Cincinnati Pops called Disney Spectacular.

‘Royal Hall’ Concept Art Revealed

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

Official concept art was released featuring Royal Hall which we posted about a few days ago.

From Shawn Slater on the Disney Parks Blog:

We’re rapidly approaching the opening of the all-new Fantasy Faire at Disneyland park, and if you’ve taken a walk by Sleeping Beauty Castle lately, you know that work is progressing nicely on this beautiful expansion of the park’s Fantasyland.

One of the main attractions in this quaint, storybook village will be the Royal Hall, where beloved Disney royalty eagerly await your visit. The Royal Hall promises to be a truly special place, filled with rich layers of detail.

“After walking into our main entrance, you will first go through a garden-like setting before entering the reception hall,” said Michel Den Dulk, Creative Director of Fantasy Faire for Walt Disney Imagineering. “Once inside the Royal Hall, guests will discover a beautiful gothic interior with nice wallpaper, wall cresting, wood finishes and chandeliers.”

Passing through a series of spaces, including the Grand Hall, you’ll have the opportunity to meet as many as three Disney princesses, from classic stories such as “Cinderella” and “Sleeping Beauty.”

“The favorite aspect of the project for me personally would be that it’s right in the heart of Disneyland,” added Michel. “It’s going to be very charming, with a lot of detail and great new experiences for the park.”

We’ll all be able to see for ourselves when Fantasy Faire opens this spring.

Get a Taste of the Big Easy During New Orleans Bayou Bash! at Disneyland Park

WDWNT on January 3, 2013

By Pam Brandon on the Disney Parks Blog:

Let the good times roll! On select dates from January 18-February 12, the tastes of New Orleans are kicked up for the high-energy New Orleans Bayou Bash! at Disneyland park. Celebrate with Princess Tiana, jazz music and street performers – but feast on delicious “Limited Time Magic” offering seven days a week.

We’ll make a day of noshing on all the “Limited Time Magic” little bites, like the shrimp cocktail with jicama-mango slaw or the Louisiana-style lobster roll on buttered brioche at Harbour Galley, or the shrimp corn fritters and gooey cupcakes (red velvet or chocolate) at the French Market Restaurant. Maybe hot apple fritters at the Royal Street Veranda or Bananas Foster beignets with caramel dipping sauce at the Mint Julep Bar. We might sip our calories at the Mint Julep Bar with a Cajun and firefly-inspired Mint Julep or lemonade.

Churros, anyone? We have ’em, rolled in cinnamon sugar with a side of chocolate dipping sauce for a little extra.

But if you want to dig in and enjoy a hearty meal, make a reservation at Blue Bayou and order the wonderful specials available just for “Limited Time Magic.” Start with the Bayou Bouillabaisse with lobster, shrimp, red snapper, mussels and littleneck clams in a saffron-seafood broth, and end with apple fritters a la mode with vanilla bean ice cream. Or make your reservation at Café Orleans for “Fat City” Bass featuring pan-seared bass, cauliflower-potato cake, mango-pineapple relish and a dash of Scotch Bonnet pepper sauce.