BREAKING: California Screamin’ to Become Incredicoaster, Disney Shares Full Plans for PIXAR Pier at California Adventure

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

Summer 2018 will bring a transformed land for guests to experience at Disney California Adventure park when Pixar Pier opens along the southern shore of Paradise Bay, with newly themed attractions, foods and merchandise throughout. This new, permanent land in the area that is now Paradise Pier will introduce four new neighborhoods representing beloved Disney·Pixar stories.

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PIXAR PIER (ANAHEIM, Calif.) –Summer 2018 will bring a transformed land when Pixar Pier opens for guests to experience at Disney California Adventure park, featuring the new Incredicoaster inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles.” This artist concept illustrates the four new neighborhoods that will represent beloved Pixar stories and the newly themed attractions that will be found throughout the permanent land of Pixar Pier. (Disney•Pixar)

The first neighborhood is inspired by Disney·Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and it will open in summer 2018 with the Incredicoaster. Permanently transformed from the attraction that is now California Screamin’, Incredicoaster will invite guests into a mid-century-modern-style loading area where they board vehicles with a distinctive, new look. New character moments, new scenes and special effects, and an exciting musical score will connect the attraction’s story to Pixar’s “The Incredibles 2,” which opens in theaters June 14, 2018. To prepare for this transformation, California Screamin’ will close January 8th, 2018.

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PIXAR PIER (ANAHEIM, Calif.) – Summer 2018 will bring a transformed land when Pixar Pier opens for guests to experience at Disney California Adventure park, including the new Incredicoaster, inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles.” Pixar Pier also introduces four new neighborhoods representing beloved Pixar stories. This artist concept captures a scene from one of the neighborhoods inspired by “The Incredibles.” Here, guests will find the new Incredicoaster featuring a mid-century-modern-style loading area, new character moments and a new look for the ride vehicles. ( Disney•Pixar)

Toy Story Mania will anchor the “Toy Story”-inspired neighborhood. A neighborhood inspired by “Inside Out” will be found on the western side of the boardwalk and will welcome a new family-friendly attraction, scheduled to open at a later date.

The fourth neighborhood will be a celebration of many Pixar stories. In this neighborhood, Mickey’s Fun Wheel will have a new look, with each of the 24 gondolas featuring different Pixar characters and the iconic face of Mickey Mouse remaining on the Paradise Bay side of the wheel. At the Games of the Boardwalk, which already includes the Bullseye Stallion Stampede game, all of the midway games will be inspired by Pixar characters. New games are expected to include characters from “A Bug’s Life,” “La Luna” and “WALL·E.” Mickey’s Fun Wheel, Games of the Boardwalk and Sideshow Shirts will close January 8th to begin this transformation.

Ariel’s Grotto restaurant and the Cove Bar will be transformed into a new lounge and grill offering sparkling views of Paradise Bay and the new Pixar Pier. Both locations will close January 8th, with Cove Bar reopening briefly in April before closing again for its permanent transformation. Guests wishing to reserve “World of Color” dining packages after January 7th may consider Carthay Circle Restaurant or Wine Country Trattoria.

The remaining areas of the land that is now Paradise Pier, including Paradise Gardens, Silly Symphony Swings, Jumpin’ Jellyfish, Goofy’s Sky School, Golden Zephyr and The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, will become a new land called Paradise Park.

Pixar Pier will open during the limited-time Pixar Fest celebration, which begins April 13th.

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New Disney Twenty-Three Issue Features Pixar’s Coco and More

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

November’s issue of the Disney twenty-three magazine will take readers into the Land of the Dead with its sneak peak for Pixar’s upcoming film, Coco.

This extensive sneak peak will give readers an in-edepth look at the film’s story, which follows Miguel on his quest to become a musician, despite his family’s disapproval.

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Next up, readers will get a look at Olaf’s Frozen Adventure, which will premier before Coco in theaters this Thanksgiving. Members of the cast and production team discuss the featurette, and the importance the story places on family and traditions. “A movie like this taps into more than just the holiday spirit—it explores the meaning behind that spirit, the traditions that bring us all together as family. It’s very powerful,” says Josh Gad (voice of Olaf).

Of course the latest issue will cover Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which we can safely assume will be the holiday’s biggest movie release. Director Rian Johnson talks about the next chapter in the Skywalker saga, and newcomer Kelly Marie Tran reveals what she loves about Rose, the character that she portrays in the film.

Disney twenty-three will go behind the scenes of the new Big Hero 6 show on Disney XD, as well as Toy Story Land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World, and Pixar Pier coming to Disney California Adventure at Disneyland Resort.

Disney twenty-three’s editor has also included a tribute to the late Disney Legend Marty Sklar.

The winter issue of Disney twenty-three also has so much more, including:

  • A look back at 23 magical moments from D23 Expo 2017
  • The heroic women of Star Wars
  • 25 years of The Muppets Christmas Carol with Sir Michael Caine and Brian Henson
  • A droid-filled edition of “From the Desk of” with Star Wars Creature and Droid FX CreativeSupervisor, Neal Scanlan
  • Regular features including A Walk with Walt, D Society, and Ask Dave

The winter issue of Disney twenty-three should be sent out in mid-November. For more on Disney twenty-three magazine and how you can sign up, head to D23.com.

Annual Passholder Previews of Sunset Seasons Greetings Begin Today at Hollywood Studios

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is hosting an annual passholder exclusive preview of their new “Flurry of Fun” beginning tonight, November 5th, 2017.

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The preview event takes place 8:30-9:30PM and primarily features the all-new Sunset Seasons Greetings experience. Passholders will also have access to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Rock ‘ N’ Roller Coaster during this event. Select food & beverage and merchandise locations on Sunset Boulevard will also be available.

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A wristband is required to attend and are being distributed at the Annual Passholder entry line to park while supplies last.

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This event is likely to happen on additional nights between now and November 9th when the offerings officially debut.

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Sweet Lineup of Treats Unveiled for 2017 “Flurry of Fun” Holiday Season at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

While the “Flurry of Fun” officially kicks off on November 9th at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the festive sweets and treats for the season will actually be available throughout the park for you to enjoy starting on November 5th.

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To start off the list, there are cookies and gingerbread pops galore, offered at various locations throughout the park. In addition, there’s a “Prep and Landing”-themed gingerbread cupcake dropping in at ABC Commissary, Rosie’s All-American Café, Catalina Eddie’s, Sweet Spells and The Trolley Car Café.

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If you’re looking for that classic cup of hot cocoa to go with those cookies, guests of all ages can enjoy classic hot cocoa with marshmallows at ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, PizzeRizzo, Rosie’s All-American Café, Catalina Eddie’s, Fairfax Fare, and Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner.

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Guests over the age of 21 can warm up with a special array of hot chocolate beverages offered at Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner and Fairfax Fare, including a hot chocolate martini, Bailey’s Salted Caramel hot chocolate, black cherry bourbon hot chocolate, and a hot chocolate flight where you can sample all three. Other adult beverages available this year include a Peppermint White Russian, a Winterberry Cooler and a Let It Glow drink consisting of vodka and blue-raspberry frozen carbonated beverage with your very own glow cube at various locations around Echo Lake and Sunset Boulevard.

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These decadent red velvet whoopie pies are decorated with icing garland, ornament pearls, and holiday sprinkles. You’ll find these tree-shaped desserts at Sweet Spells and Fairfax Fare.

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Guests will find an apple cranberry cobbler at Hollywood Scoops and Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner; or if you’re looking for a sweet and savory snack, you can find a festive holiday popcorn mix at popcorn carts throughout the park. This popcorn comes with marshmallows, pretzels and M&M’s and is drizzled with chocolate.

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Olaf is also the star of several treats to mark the release of Olaf’s Frozen Adventure. Find his special cupcake at ABC Commissary, Rosie’s All-American Café, Catalina Eddie’s, Fairfax Fare and Sweet Spells. You’ll also find an Olaf Pop at Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction, an Olaf Sundae at Hollywood Scoops, and Sugar Frosted Fruit Bites at Pretzel Palooza. Also, be on the lookout for an Olaf-themed sipper that comes filled with a fun “Frozen” beverage.

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Finally, the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Holiday Dessert Party is back (be sure to check out our review from last year). Indulge in specialty sweets and sips before you move to a special reserved viewing area to enjoy Disney Movie Magic and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!, a holiday spectacular hosted by the elves Wayne and Lanny from “Prep and Landing.” Among the desserts offered are candy cane brownies, holiday Mickey and Minnie sugar cookies, warm pumpkin pie spiced bread pudding, and sweet Yule Log (some of this new from last year). In addition, you’ll be given an exclusive ornament to take home with you at the end of the party. This is a premium event with dates available November 9th through December 31st.

The Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starts November 9th, but you can start eating all this goodness come Sunday.

UPDATE: The Opening of The Edison at Disney Springs Now Set for 2018

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

The Edison, the long-delayed Disney Springs establishment in The Landing, will now open in 2018.

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The positive note is that the opening is set for January 1st, 2018, but nonetheless pushes the opening another calendar year beyond the original, intended opening of 2016.

In case you have forgotten what The Edison is, Eater describes it as follows:

With a theme that centers around a “1920s-period electric company,” the restaurant will ‘’recall an exuberant era of invention and imagination.” The “industrial gothic” space will have 35-foot ceilings and a number of themed areas like “The Tesla Lounge,” “The Radio Room,” and “The Patent Office.” The Edison in Florida will be quite similar to its sister location in Los Angeles. As for the menu, the restaurant will serve classic American food and craft cocktails. For entertainment, there will be live music, cabaret performances, contortionists, palm readers, and DJs. The Edison is a bit saucier than other venues at Disney Springs and definitely not child friendly. It appears to be part of an effort to draw in an older (and perhaps childless) crowd.

Houston Astros Celebrating World Series Win at Disney World on Saturday

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

The Houston Astros are coming to Walt Disney World this Saturday to celebrate their World Series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The celebration will take place at Magic Kingdom where at 12:45pm ET a parade will head down Main Street U.S.A., where guests will be able to watch the stars of the team celebrate their victory. Representing the Houston Astros will be World Series MVP George Springer, as well as Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa.

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The Astros won with a 5-1 lead in Game 7, making it the team’s first World Series win in 56-years.

Springer, Altuve and Correa will not only be in the parade but also get to experience the iconic attractions at Magic Kingdom along with their families and friends, so keep an eye out if you’re in the park on Saturday.

 

Tomorrowland Terrace at the Magic Kingdom Returning for Mobile Order-Only Test

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

Tomorrowland Terrace at the Magic Kingdom Park will be open for lunch and dinner November 5th through the 11th using Mobile Order only.

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Using the My Disney Experience app, Guests can select menu items, customize their order and pre-pay for their meal. When they arrive at the restaurant, they tap an “I’m here” button in the app, which notifies the kitchen to prepare the meal. When ready, Guests are alerted through the app to pick up their meal at a designated window.

To see how mobile order works, please read our review.

Two Disney Parks Holiday Specials Coming to ABC This Season

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

Disney will continue with their tradition of holiday television specials by airing two separate events this year on ABC.

The first, “The Wonderful World of Disney: Magic Holiday Celebration” will air on November 30 from 9pm to 11pm. Julianne Hough and Nick Lachey will host the special from Walt Disney World, while Jesse Palmer will co-host the show from Disneyland Resort in California.

Specials performances will be made by:

  • Ciara in a Christmas medley from Cinderella Castle.
  • Darius Rucker, singing “Winter Wonderland.”
  • Hit group, Fifth Harmony will sing “Can You See,” from “The Star” soundtrack, and “The Christmas Song.”
  • Fitz and the Tantrums will perform “HandClap” and their original Christmas song “Santa Stole My Lady.”
  • Hanson will sing “Finally It’s Christmas,” from their recently released Christmas album.
  • Boy band In Real Life will sing “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”
  • Jason Derulo will perform “This Christmas.”
  • Lea Michele will perform “Baby It’s Cold Outside.”

Disney will announce additional performances at a later date.

The second television holiday special, titled “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration,” will air on Christmas day from 10am to noon. Hough and Lachey will also be hosting the special, with Palmer once again co-hosting from Disneyland in California.

For “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration” performances will be made by:

  • Ciara will sing “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” from Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
  • Darius Rucker singing “Home for The Holidays.”
  • Fifth Harmony performing “Sleigh Ride.”
  • Fitz and the Tantrums will be performing “Last Christmas.”
  • Jason Derulo will sing “Silent Night” from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland.
  • ”Glee” star Michele will perform “Let It Snow.”
  • 98 Degrees will play their new song “Season of Love” from their new holiday record.
  • Telly Leung and Arielle Jacobs, from the stage show “Aladdin,” will perform “A Whole New World” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

As with the first special, additional performances will be announced later.

PHOTOS, VIDEO: Sunset Seasons Greetings Holiday Show Debuts at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

WDWNT on November 10, 2017

Tonight, during a special Annual Passholder event, Sunset Seasons Greetings at Disney’s Hollywood Studios debuted. The show consists of 4 short vignettes with Disney characters combining projections on the facade of the Tower of Terror, giant screens, and some synchronized lights in the decorations and on trees going down Sunset Boulevard.

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Below, you’ll find a video showing the entire show loop through all 4 sequences featuring Olaf’s Frozen Adventure, Mickey’s Christmas Carol, The Muppets, and Toy Story (including brief appearances by characters from Prep and Landing):

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