2018 Walt Disney World Travel Packages Now Available, Dining Plan Now Includes Alcohol

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

2018 Walt Disney World travel packages did in fact go on sale today, with the Disney Dining Plan now offering alcoholic and specialty beverages as rumored.

Guests of select Walt Disney World® Resort hotels with Magic Your Way Vacation Packages that include a Disney Dining Plan have several new beverage options available.

Beverages – Guests under 21 can choose (1) non-alcoholic beverage (including specialty beverages where offered). Guests over 21 can choose either one (1) single serving non-alcoholic beverage (including specialty beverages where offered) or one (1) single serving mixed cocktail, beer, or wine (where offered) within their meal entitlement.

A single serving non-alcoholic beverage includes items such as:

  • Artisanal Milkshakes
  • Fresh Smoothies
  • Premium Hot chocolates
  • Soda, Coffee, or Tea

A single serving alcoholic beverage includes items such as:

  • Beer or Cider
  • Wine or Sangria
  • Mixed Drinks and Specialty Cocktails

Most beer, wine and mixed drink beverages included, some exceptions apply. Guests must be age 21 and over and present valid ID to be served one (1) alcoholic beverage. Alcoholic beverages may only be redeemed with a quick-service or table-service meal entitlement.

With the additions, there is of course a price increase (prices below are per adult, per day):

                                    2018                   2017

Quick Service           $52.49                  $48.19

Disney Dining          $75.49                  $69.35

Disney Deluxe         $116.24                 $106.68

Contact Kingdom Konsultant at 1-866-566-7858 or Vacations@kingdomkonsultant.com if you would like to book these packages now!

Please note that the last date of a Guest’s 2018 Magic Your Way Package may not be more than 499 days in the future and most airlines can not be booked more than 331 days in the future.

PHOTOS: Disney Store Will Debut New Disney, MARVEL, Star Wars, and PIXAR Collections at the D23 Expo 2017

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

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DISNEY STORE TO UNVEIL NEW PRODUCT COLLECTIONS AND COLLECTIBLES AT D23 EXPO 2017

Disney Store Collections to Celebrate Milestone Anniversaries and Beloved Characters across Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars

Disney Publishing Worldwide Announces D23 Expo 2017 Exclusive Titles, Presentations, and Author Signings

Pasadena, Calif. — June 20, 2017 – Disney Store today announced the new collections and Limited Edition sets to launch at this year’s D23 Expo 2017, Disney’s ultimate fan event held at the Anaheim Convention Center July 14–16. The never-before-seen collections celebrate milestone anniversaries and everyone’s favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars characters.

D23 Expo 2017 attendees will be introduced to the new Disney Designer Collection and get a first look at the newest collections debuting at this year’s event, including exclusive Disney Store pieces from Her Universe, the Art of Snow White collection, MXYZ Vinyl Mini Blind Box Collectibles, and, for the first time ever, a D23 Expo Marvel collection from Disney Store.

In addition to the chance to shop special products not yet available to the general public, fans will have the opportunity to meet some of the artists and designers who created these exciting new collections.

Highlights of the collections include:

  • Disney Designer Collection: Formerly known as the Disney Fairytale Designer Collection, the Disney Designer Collection takes the classic assortment beyond the fairytale to tell the iconic stories of Disney’s legacy of film history and introduces three series: Fairytale Series, Folktale Series, and Pixar Animation Studios Series. At the event, Guests will have the opportunity to purchase three of the new Limited Edition dolls:

o   Fairytale Series: Pinocchio (limited to an edition size of 1,023)

o   Folktale Series: Mulan (limited to an edition size of 523)

o   Pixar Animation Studios Series: The Incredibles (limited to an edition size of 1,023)

Guests at the event also will have the opportunity to preview and pre-purchase a set of the five Limited Edition dolls releasing at Disney Store locations and DisneyStore.com September – November (each limited to an edition size of 6,000):

o   Fairytale Series: The Little Mermaid, Tangled, Robin Hood

o   Folktale Series: Moana, One Hundred and One Dalmatians

 

  • Disney•Pixar: In partnership with John Lasseter and the Pixar Animation Studios team, the Disney Store shop at D23 Expo 2017 will offer a special collection featuring some favorite Pixar characters.

 

  • MXYZ Vinyl Mini Blind Box Collectibles: The newest vinyl blind box collection features eight iconic characters in the Disney Store MXYZ art style—perfect for collecting and trading. Retailing at $5 each, the mini-sized characters come with a key chain attachment to add a pop of fun and personalize accessories, bags, and more.
  • Star Wars: Fans won’t have to go to a galaxy far, far away to find an expansive assortment of Star Wars merchandise at D23 Expo 2017. The Disney Store shop will feature Star Wars apparel, accessories, drinkware, and, of course, collectibles. Notable highlights of the assortment are the Limited Edition Star Wars Elite Series Premium Action Figures, featuring iconic Hero and Villain duos: Princess Leia and Darth Vader; Rey and Kylo Ren; and Jyn Erso and Director Orson Krennic. Each duo retails for $79.95 and is limited to an edition size of 1,000.
  • Milestone Anniversaries: Disney Store will celebrate three milestone anniversaries at D23 Expo 2017: Oswald the Lucky Rabbit’s 90th, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ 80th, and Bambi’s 75th. Each anniversary will be celebrated with a special assortment.

 

  • Disney Tsum Tsum: Disney Tsum Tsum fans will be delighted with a new Limited Edition set released each day. Each unique set will bring Guests’ favorite characters and stories to life through adorable mini and micro Tsum Tsums.
  • Minnie Mouse Signature Collection: The next product installment of the beloved fashionista Minnie Mouse features a collection of apparel, accessories, and a Limited Edition doll of Minnie, stylish as always.

 

  • Marvel: For the first time ever, Disney Store will offer a Marvel collection at D23 Expo. The assortment includes Limited Edition collectibles, including a pin set, lithograph set, and ornament set.

 

  • Her Universe: Ashley Eckstein, founder of Her Universe, created exclusive pieces for Disney Store that will be available for the first time at D23 Expo 2017. The never-before-seen products are featured within the Minnie Signature, Star Wars, Pixar, and Marvel collections.

D23, the official Disney fan club, is once again partnering with Disney Store to offer an array of fan favorite items at this year’s D23 Expo. Many items will proudly boast a D23 Expo 2017 stamp of approval seal, indicating it was made specifically for this year’s event, celebrating Disney’s amazing fans and the special Disney anniversaries and iconic collectibles Guests love—available first to all Guests at D23 Expo.

 

Artist Signings: Learn About the Magic Makers Behind Some of the New Collections

The product designers and artists will be available for autograph signings following their respective panels at the Oh My Disney stage, exclusively for Guests who purchase select products from the Disney Store shop at D23 Expo 2017:

  • Friday, July 14

o   Jessica Fuchs and Steve Thompson, Disney Folktale Series Artists

  • 4:30 p.m. – Interview at Oh My Disney Stage
  • 5 p.m. – Product signing
  • Saturday, July 15

o   Jessica Fuchs and Steve Thompson, Art of Snow White Artists

  • 5 p.m. – Interview at Oh My Disney Stage
  • 5:30 p.m. – Product signing

Disney Store will offer a limited quantity of StorePass tickets per day in an effort to minimize wait times for our Guests who wish to shop. StorePass tickets will be available beginning at 9 a.m. each day at the StorePass desk located adjacent to the StagePass distribution area in Hall A. The StorePass will provide Guests with a shopping experience timeslot, between 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Guests can visit the Things to Know page at D23expo.com for more details.

Additional details and updates about Disney Store D23 Expo events and activities will continue to be updated on www.D23expo.com, on the forthcoming D23 Expo app, and on Facebook and Twitter @DisneyD23.

The Disney Store shop at D23 Expo 2017 comprises more than 5,000 sq. ft. of retail space and is located directly across from the Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media (DCPI) Pavilion.

 

Disney Books in the DCPI Pavilion

Fans and collectors will be able to purchase the latest bestselling books and D23 Expo-exclusive titles in the DCPI Pavilion and the Disney Dream Store. After experiencing Disney Publishing Worldwide’s series of panels and presentations, Guests can bring home Disney’s featured Disney Editions and Disney books that celebrate the artistry, history, and legacy of The Walt Disney Company.

In addition, the DCPI Pavilion will also be home to select titles available for purchase only to D23 Expo 2017 Guests before they go on sale to the public this summer, including:

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A Kiss Goodnight (Richard Sherman, Floyd Norman)

On sale August 22, 2017

Ink & Paint: The Women of Walt Disney’s Animation (Mindy Johnson)

On sale September 5, 2017

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit: The Search for the Lost Disney Cartoons (Dave Bossert)

On sale August 29, 2017

Art of Coloring: Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

On sale July 18, 2017

 

Throughout the weekend, Disney Publishing Worldwide authors, illustrators, artists, and Imagineers will meet with Guests and host book signings at Talent Central and in the Disney Dream Store:

Friday, July 14

Alex Hirsch, Rob Renzetti, Stephanie Ramirez (Gravity Falls: Journal 3)

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Daron Nefcy, Dominic Bisignano (Star vs. The Forces of Evil: Star and Marco’s Guide to Mastering Every Dimension)

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Pam Brandon (Delicious Disney)

3:45 – 4:45 p.m.

Disney Dream Store

 

Michael Singer (Disney Pirates: The Definitive Collector’s Anthology)

5:30 – 7 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Mindy Johnson (Ink & Paint: The Women of Walt Disney’s Animation)

6 – 7 p.m.

Disney Dream Store

 

Saturday, July 15

Pam Brandon (Delicious Disney)

1:15 – 2:15 p.m.

Disney Dream Store

 

Ridley Pearson (Kingdom Keepers)

4:15 – 5:15 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Victoria Saxon (Poster Art of Cars)

4:15 – 5:15 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Dave Smith (Disney Facts Revealed)

6 – 7 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Sunday, July 16

Dave Smith (Disney Facts Revealed)

10 – 11 a.m.

Talent Central

 

Dave Bossert (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit: The Search for the Lost Disney Cartoons)

1 – 2 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Marty Sklar, Vanessa Hunt (Maps of the Disney Parks)

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Floyd Norman (A Kiss Goodnight)

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Talent Central

 

Talent will only be signing titles purchased at D23 Expo 2017. Proof of purchase will be required. Presentations, locations, and talent and artist signings are subject to change.

 

Tickets for D23 Expo 2017 are available for $81 for one-day adult admission and $59 for children 3 – 9. Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $72 for a one-day adult admission and $53 for children 3 – 9. Multi-day tickets are also available. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2017, visit D23expo.com.

To find a local Disney Store, Guests can visit www.DisneyStore.com/storelocator or call (866) 902-2798. Guests can also sign up for email alerts at www.DisneyStore.com/Register, become a fan on Facebook www.facebook.com/DisneyStore, or follow along on Instagram www.instagram.com/DisneyStore and Twitter www.twitter.com/DisneyStore.

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Walt Disney World Announces 4th of July Entertainment Lineup for 2017

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

Walt Disney World has announced their entertainment lineup at each of the four theme parks to celebrate the 4th of July 2017!

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A red, white and blue fireworks spectacular illuminates the sky over Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Spectacular fireworks displays with brilliant bursts of light coloring the night sky above the theme parks have been a Walt Disney World Resort entertainment specialty for decades. Magic Kingdom honors America each year with a Fourth of July celebration on July 3 and 4 with Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky, which features dazzling comets and glittery bursts soaring to a musical score produced in a concert band style.Ê (David Roark, photographer)

Nighttime spectacles will light up each park:

Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky
Magic Kingdom Park commemorates the Fourth with brilliant fireworks choreographed to patriotic music. The red, white and blue extravaganza will bathe the sky on both July 3 and July 4 at 9 p.m.

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
This nightly Epcot favorite adds a patriotic twist to the show, with a special laser light finale celebrating America. Fireworks will blast off at 9 p.m. on July 4.

Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular
Celebrate Star Wars, a great icon of American culture, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This one-of-a-kind show takes to the sky at 9:30 p.m. nightly.

Rivers of Light
Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s newest nighttime show celebrates a connection with nature through light, water and fire. Rivers of Light has two showings nightly, 9:15 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

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Disney Characters Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck dress in their patriotic best to celebrate the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World Resort. The characters appear for meet and greets at the American Adventure at Epcot for the holiday. (David Roark, photographer)

Other Independence Day fun and entertainment includes:

  • The talented Voices of Liberty a cappella group will perform traditional Americana tunes during a 4th of July Concert on the America Gardens Theatre stage at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. The vibrant American Music Machine will perform pop hits, at noon, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 3:50 p.m.
  • Meet favorite Disney Characters — all dressed up to celebrate America’s birthday – throughout the day at the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot.
  • The Muppets Present…Great Moments in History: Miss Piggy, Kermit, Fozzie Bear and friends reenact famous moments in American history in a whimsical way. The live show is performed daily in Liberty Square.
  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa hosts an All-American July 4 cookout from 7-8:30 p.m. The star-spangled feast includes grilled steak and shrimp, hot dogs, baked beans, sides, plus specialty drinks, beer and wine. There’s a live DJ and crafts for kids. After dinner, head to the Grand Floridian Marina for sweets and a view of the Magic Kingdom Park’s July 4 fireworks. Cost is $120 plus tax, gratuity is included; $59 ages 3 to 11. For reservations, 407-WDW-DINE.

D23 Expo 2017 Rumors – A Brave New Epcot with Way More Disney Character, 5 Year Expansion Plan

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek has already announced that big changes are coming to Epcot, making the statement back in November 2016 at the Destination D event at Walt Disney World. While they weren’t ready to spill the beans just yet, the D23 Expo in Anaheim next month seems like a likely venue for the announcement of the multi-year, multi-billion-dollar overhaul of Orlando’s second gate.

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According to sources, with work commencing this Fall and being executed in phases, the overhaul of Epcot is slated to be completed in 5 years, just in time for the park’s 40th birthday in the fall of 2022. That being said, major components of the expansion will begin to come online starting in 2018, with at least a new E-Ticket up and running in time for Walt Disney World’s grand 50th anniversary celebration in 2021. You may recall that California Adventure went through a similar expansion, starting in 2007 and completed in 2012.

So, what is happening to Epcot? While some things are more solid, others are just low rumblings at this point. Below, we go over everything we have heard thus far. Some will come to fruition, some undoubtedly will not, but here’s what might the announced for Epcot at the D23 Expo 2017…

New Entrance Plaza

Removing the Leave a Legacy “tombstones” and most of the original 1982 structures, Epcot will receive a new entry area to bring it into the 21st century.

Spaceship Earth Update

Siemens is expected to renew its expiring sponsorship deal for the Spaceship Earth attraction and Epcot’s nighttime show, which will likely lead to another update of the classic Epcot ride. We would hope that the problematic finale portion of the attraction created in 2007 will be addressed, but at the very least, a complete overhaul of Project Tomorrow seems likely.

Innoventions Plaza Area Overhaul

Including a new multi-level table service restaurant, a remodeled Mouse Gear, and the demolition of the existing Inventions East and West buildings, a new plaza behind Spaceship Earth will offer easier access to the rest of Future World. Here’s hoping that the Fountain of Nations (and Club Cool) will remain.

Guardians of the Galaxy/TRON Replacing the Universe of Energy

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We have been talking about this one for a while, but it seems as if the announcement of a Guardians of the Galaxy themed land for Epcot is just about guaranteed for the D23 Expo 2017. Cast members at Epcot are already being told that the Universe of Energy will close just after the park’s 35th anniversary on October 1st for demolition, making way for what should be a small themed land that will take guests off-world to explore the galaxy with Star Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, Groot and Mantis. While some are speculating that this area will instead be home to the TRON Lightcycle Power Run, we are still hearing that the TRON coaster is set for Magic Kingdom and not here, especially considering Chevrolet is the sponsor of the ride and they already sponsor Test Track in Future World. It is also likely that the former Wonders of Life pavilion will be demolished and the plot incorporated into this themed land, which will reportedly have multiple attractions.

Mission: SPACE Update

A new on-ride film and a lot of cosmetic upgrades are likely for Mission:SPACE, the first signs of which may even be evident when it reopens from its current refurbishment in just a few weeks’ time.

Inside Out replacing Imagination

Figment will be sharing the spotlight in a new attraction themed around the Disney-PIXAR film Inside Out, slated to replace the Journey Into Imagination attraction at Epcot. Sadly, Figment will not be getting his own adventure, but will be sharing one with the 5 emotions from the film should this rumor pan out. Figment appears in the actual Inside Out film in a brief Easter egg – a framed portrait of the purple dragon is present in Riley’s imagination.

The Land Re-Imagining

Upgrades for the Living with the Land boat ride and a new film to replace Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable seem likely for The Land, while Soarin’ Around the World will continue to be the headlining attraction for the pavilion.

The Seas with Nemo and Friends becomes the Marine Life Institute

The Nemo and Friends Searider at Tokyo DisneySea

The Nemo and Friends Searider at Tokyo DisneySea

While perhaps not a part of phase one, we eventually expect to see the Seas with Nemo and Friends converted into the Marine Life Institute, the fictitious location in Finding Dory which was inspired by the real-life Monterey Bay Aquarium. While the new and popular Searider attraction from Tokyo DisneySea would be a nice  addition, nothing solid on this front has come our way as of yet.

New World Showcase Pavilion

New country pavilions in World Showcase have been talked about since Epcot Center opened. Several have even been announced (but never built), and thus only two (Morocco and Norway) have been added since the park debuted. We have certainly heard about Disney sitting down with various countries and such over the last ten years to discuss a new pavilion, with rumors that Puerto Rico, Brazil, and Spain are on the short list. Spain seems the most likely as Disney would like a tie-in to the upcoming animated film Gigantic (now pushed to 2020).

Coco Replacing The Gran Fiesta Tour

As it would be an easy change in this screen-based attraction, the upcoming PIXAR film Coco may inspire some changes at the Gran Fiesta Tour starring the Three Caballeros. Why do this after investing in a new end scene for the ride? Well, the addition of the Donald, Jose, and Panchito animatronics was a side project with a very limited budget, and not some major initiative for WDI and the company. Disney wants to invest in this park with more contemporary IPs, and Coco is both contemporary, and (sadly for those of us who love The Three Caballeros) a logical fit.

Mulan-Related Film for China

Apparently, Disney will look to keep the Circlevision 360 theater alive by adding Mushu as a narrator for the history of China. Sadly, there isn’t much space to do something else here, but Reflections of China is desperately in need of some change.

Ratatouille in France

Whether it ends up being the large-scale trackless ride from Walt Disney Studios Paris, or a new film starring Remy, a redo of the France Pavilion seems all but confirmed at this point. The pavilion already sells a ton of Ratatouille merchandise and Disney is likely chomping at the bit to rip out Chefs de France and Monsieur Paul to replace them with the lucrative Bistro Chez Remy restaurant from Disneyland Paris, where guests can dine at the size of a rat.

Something for the U.K., Germany, and Japan Pavilions

While it is unclear what might go there, the upcoming sequel to Mary Poppins and the likely closure of the Great Movie Ride may equal Disney’s first attraction based on one of its most popular films of all time for the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, show building that were never utilized for attractions still stand in both Germany and Japan, spaces which may be used for Tangled and Big Hero 6 related attractions, or something else perhaps.

New Nighttime Spectacular to Replace IllumiNations

Without a doubt, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth with be ending soon. The show is the oldest continuously-running fireworks show at any Disney Park around the globe. Despite it being a beloved and still-popular nighttime spectacular, it will likely be replaced with something new, and injected with Disney characters and franchises inspired by tales from around the globe.

Stay Tuned for More in WDWNT’s Coverage of the D23 Expo 2017

While all of this is likely not what any fan of classic Epcot would like to see, there is a new direction coming in an effort to make it as exciting as the other three Walt Disney World theme parks will be to guests by the time 2022 rolls around. While all the individual pieces of the plans will likely not be announced at the D23 Expo next month, we at least expect Disney to give us a clearer explanation of their vision for the park’s future. Stay tuned to WDWNT’s full coverage of the D23 Expo 2017 in just a few weeks!

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D23 Expo 2017 Rumors – Fixing Disneyland Paris with MARVEL and More

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

With the D23 Expo 2017 quickly approaching, it seems logical that we begin speculating as to what announcements will be made by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek at 3PM on July 15th during what is usually a fairly interesting presentation. In the past, New Fantasyland, Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, Fantasy Faire, Star Wars Land, Toy Story Land, and Soarin’ Around the World have all been announced at this event, so needless to say, we can expect some things to drop in 3 weeks time, but what will they be? Well, let the speculation begin with Disneyland Paris, the latest acquisition of the Walt Disney Company.

With the ink still drying on this corporate takeover to save Disneyland Paris, many believe Disney will come roaring out of the gate with a billion dollar enhancement of the troubled Walt Disney Studios Park, easily the worst Disney theme park currently on this planet. While it would just be the beginning of what would be needed to bring the entire European resort up to snuff with the others around the world, a massive expansion of the Studios is good start.

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission Breakout and the Marvel Super Hero Land

I’m not even sure if this qualifies as a rumor because it just seems so certain, but it is at least a rumor that it will be announced so soon.

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Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission Breakout

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission Breakout has been a huge hit at Disney California Adventure, where it will eventually anchor an entire themed land based on the MARVEL universe, and it will do the same for Disneyland Paris’ Walt Disney Studios Park where it will also replace the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Whether it is announced at the D23 Expo or not, this is the next big investment for Paris and is expected to happen within the next year. The remainder of the MARVEL themed land will follow, simultaneously being built for Hong Kong, Anaheim, and here in Europe.

MARVEL Themed Land in development for Hong Kong Disneyland

MARVEL Themed Land in development for Hong Kong Disneyland

Any further expansions remain unclear at this time, but Star Wars Land seems unlikely for the future of Disneyland Paris. Regardless, a massive themed land filled with numerous new attractions seems like a nice way to welcome Paris to the family.

Full Eat to the Beat Concert Series Lineup Released for Epcot Food and Wine Festival 2017

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

Eleven new acts join the Eat to the Beat concert series this fall during the 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, the longest event ever in the festival’s history.

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Festival first-timers include The Hooters, Baha Men, Lauren Alaina, Mark Wills, American Authors, Devon Allman, Postmodern Jukebox, 10,000 Maniacs, Kenny G, Blue October, and Squeeze.

Here’s the full lineup:

  • Delta Rae — August 31-September 1
  • NEW! The Hooters – September 2-3
  • NEW! Baha Men — September 4-5
  • Fuel — September 6-7
  • Starship featuring Mickey Thomas – September 8-10
  • NEW! Lauren Alaina – September 11-12
  • Plain White T’s — September 13-15
  • Sister Hazel – September 16-17
  • Air Supply — September 18-20
  • David Cook — September 21-22
  • Everclear — September 23-24
  • Sugar Ray — September 25-27
  • 38 Special – September 28-29
  • NEW! Mark Wills  — September 30-October 1
  • NEW! American Authors – October 2-3
  • Christopher Cross – October 4-5
  • NEW! Devon Allman – October 6-8
  • Dennis DeYoung: The Music of STYX — October 9-11
  • Taylor Dane — October 12-13
  • Jeffrey Osbourne – October 14-15
  • NEW! Postmodern Jukebox — October 16-17
  • NEW! 10,000 Maniacs — October 18-20
  • Toad the Wet Sprocket — October 21-22
  • NEW! Kenny G — October 23-24
  • Billy Ocean – October 25-26
  • Tiffany – October 27-October 29
  • Hanson — October 30-November 1
  • NEW! Blue October — November 2-3
  • Living Colour — November 4-5
  • Boyz II Men — November 6-8
  • Big Bad Voodoo Daddy — November 9-11
  • NEW! Squeeze — November 12-13

Performances are 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 p.m. daily, and included in Epcot admission. As always, the lineup is subject to change. The 2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival runs August 31-November 13 at Walt Disney World Resort.

PHOTO REPORT: Hollywood Studios 6/27/17 (Disney Movie Magic, PIXAR Live, Cars 3, New Cupcake, Etc.)

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

Our latest photo report takes us to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to see what is new and exciting for this park in transition…

The Hollywood That Was

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Heavy demolition continues in the Hollywood Studios parking lot as they prepare to expand and reconfigure it ahead of Toy Story Land and Star Wars Land opening.

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The stage in front of the Chinese Theater was gone for a few days, but sadly they could not figure out a roll-away stage to replace it, so the old one is already back up.

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New trees were planted on Hollywood Boulevard for some reason. They are much smaller than those they replaced.

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Rather than bore you with the same content twice, be sure to check out our photos of the latest progress on New York Street and Star Wars Land in photos here, or you can just check out the video below.

We Are Reporting on Packaging Now…

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The packaging for the various Chip and Dale Snack Co. products was changed, and it is pretty much the cutest thing ever.

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New versus old in a side by side comparison.

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The vegetable chip packaging was also updated.

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Get Your Licks on Route 66

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A Cars 3 cupcake is now available at most counter service locations at Hollywood Studios.

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We got it and decided we needed to take this cupcake out for a photo shoot. My life now consists of cupcake photo shoots and pretzel packages.

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It wasn’t the worst cupcake I have ever had, but I prefer chocolate in my desserts. That being said, it pretty much tasted like strawberry Nesquik that was turned into a cake, which isn’t a bad thing.

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WARNING: The white chocolate Lighting McQueen may be hard to break…

Cruzin’ into PIXAR Place

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Cruz Ramirez from Cars 3 is now meeting guests towards the end of PIXAR Place.

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The awning isn’t very conducive to early morning photos…

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Cruz looks pretty cool up close with the metallic paint job.

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This and That

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The Express Transportation stops all have the bus times posted now, a nice offering.

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Disney World is somehow able to sell this Thor mug in the parks, I’m not sure how as items like this weren’t allowed before. Disney Springs and the resorts are typically where you would have to go for stuff like this.

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Some new items for pets now available in the Disney Tails line.

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Limited edition Pirates of the Caribbean and Cars 3 MagicBands for sale.

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A new Lion King MagicBand 2 for sale.

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There is now a hard plastic version of the Haunted Mansion wallpaper phone case available.

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A growing trend is Disney moving away from the “Disney Parks” branding on items. This will make it hard to tell what is park exclusive and what may also be at your local Disney Store. This is a real shame for guests who want to bring something unique home. Hopefully this doesn’t mean we will see less park exclusive items as well.

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There are ads for PizzeRizzo plastered all over the Muppets Courtyard area now.

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Seems odd to heavily advertise a restaurant that’s only open for lunch…

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More Cars 3 Stuff

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One Man’s Dream is currently home to the Cars 3 preview.

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There are Cars 3 advertisements everywhere outside of the exhibit…

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Inside, guests see a small exhibit very similar to what used to be displayed for new films over at the Magic of Disney Animation.

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There was a curtain up when we visited. This has since become a merchandise stand…

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Some of the art and displays around the final rooms were changed as well.

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Star Wars props were replaced with Dr. Strange.

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The Music of PIXAR Live! – A Symphony of Characters

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We did the dining package for The Music of PIXAR Live! – A Symphony of Characters, which is running 3 shows a night through the summer. The dining package was a great deal for the food alone, never mind our seating which was dead center. That being said, if you don’t wish to buy one, a FastPass can yield you a very similar seat.

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A nearby merchandise cart.

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PIXAR Live takes over the Theater of the stars in the evenings.

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This is also now the FastPass entrance, but it was just dining package earlier in the run.

Kessler Collection Likely to Open New Grand Bohemian Hotel Near Hollywood Studios, Site of Swan and Dolphin Tennis Courts

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

While rumors have been circling that Marriott would be looking to grow their presence at Walt Disney World by leveling the site of the Swan and Dolphin Hotel tennis courts, we now have some idea of their plans for the space.

Rumored plans for The Kessler Collection resort (possibly another Grand Bohemian Hotel for Orlando) operated by Marriott at Walt Disney World

Rumored plans for The Kessler Collection resort (possibly another Grand Bohemian Hotel for Orlando) operated by Marriott at Walt Disney World

A source inside of the Marriott organization has informed us that the Kessler Collection will likely be constructing a hotel on the former tennis court site. The Kessler Collection hotels are part of Mariott’s Autograph Collection Hotels, owned by Kessler and operated by Marriott. Kessler already has a strong presence in Central Florida with their Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Bohemian Hotel Celebration, and the Castle Hotel Orlando, so it would not be strange for them to have yet another location in town. The Kessler hotels are typically smaller, luxury lifestyle hotels, which would be about right for a plot of this size. The hotels are typically themed to their location and this plot would be just across the street from Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Below are examples from two of their other locations.

The outdoor covered space near Fantasia Gardens would also be leveled for additional parking, but the adjacent Fantasia Gardens mini-golf should remain in operation despite the proximity to the hotel. The hotel’s prescense would likely also help business at the adjacent courses, a plus for Disney.

Of course, none of this has been confirmed as of yet, but it seems highly likely at this time. It is unknown when such a project might commence, but likely it would be very soon to coincide with the needed demands of the opening of Star Wars Land.

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BREAKING: Permit Filed for Rumored Ratatouille Ride in France at Epcot (with Update)

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

Disney has just filed the first permit for the rumored new Ratatouille ride at the France pavilion at Epcot (that we told you about yesterday).

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You can see from the aerial image that the area encompassed by the permit entails all of the empty expansion pad between France and Morocco (expansion pads were originally designated for the addition of countries to World Showcase), as well as some additional space directly behind the France pavilion. The show building will be built on the expansion pad, and the queue area will travel behind the existing France pavilion and connect to the existing guest area in front of the pavilion.

According to the permit (which can be downloaded in full here), the area inside the red outline totals 5.70 acres. Currently, 1.10 acres are paved, 0.31 acres are occupied by buildings (mostly trailers), and 4.29 acres are “pervious” aream which is either dirt or landscaping.

The plans are to pave an additional 2.94 acres of the current “pervious” area and build retention ponds on the other side of Avenue of the Stars (the service road that circles World Showcase) to hold the additional runoff from the added impervious area. Several buildings will also be removed, but some additional buildings will be built to replace them.

As you can see from the imagery, some of the expansion pad is used for storage of food kiosks from the Epcot festivals, which will easily be relocated.

I’ve analyzed the multiple drawings in the permit and additional documents filed and have drawn up the rough plan below which shows the extent of the work, where existing structures are located, and where many of them will be relocated. In addition the dark shaded area shows a new access road to be built to serve the back of the restaurants in the France pavilion, since the current access road will be blocked by either the show building or the queue area. (Note: If I’ve mislabeled any of the backstage buildings, please let me know so I can correct it. I’m only going by what I can see on the permits and don’t have firsthand knowledge! Email me directly at jason@wdwnt.com in case I don’t see it in the comments.)

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The ride is rumored to be the trackless Ratatouille: The Adventure attraction from Disneyland Paris.

Stay tuned to WDW News Today for more information on this new construction. Once things get underway, we hope to have construction photos for you on a regular basis, as you’ve come to expect from WDWNT!

 

Disney World Postponing Hall of Presidents Reopening Until After July 4th

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

Walt Disney World will likely not be reopening the Hall of Presidents at the Magic Kingdom in time for the 4th of July holiday as originally planned.

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Despite zero announcements since the attraction closed in January, Disney closed the Hall of Presidents attraction to add new president Donald Trump to the show. Internal documents stated that the show would re-open in late June 2017, but are now simply stating “Summer 2017”. Cast members standing outside of the closed attraction are also telling guests that it will not reopen prior to July 4th.

Disney has still made no public statement on when it will reopen and what role Donald Trump will have in the attraction. It is unknown if the delays are related to remaining work to be done or for political reasons and public appearance.