Tim Alcoser Photo Report: 12/25/2012

Tim went to the Disneyland Resort on Christmas Day and was able to capture some magic!

I was at the Disneyland Resort on Christmas day and took a few photographs of the hustle and bustle on one of the busiest days of the year.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to close on January 7th for a major refurbishment. Red Car Newsboys entertaining Christmas guests over at Disney California Adventure as are the cast of Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular.

Sleeping Beauty Castle is arguably the most spectacular this time of year, only to be complimented with Believe…in Holiday Magic Fireworks Spectacular and snow on Main Street USA.

Thank you for reading! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

-Tim Alcoser

 

After the 2nd lift hill.  Where the
All smiles aboard Big Thunder Mountain!
Visuals of Thunder Mountain track and car
Night time shot of Thunder Mountain loading dock.
Mickey Mouse getting off the Red Car Trolley just in time for Christmas!
Evening Christmas crowds on Main Street USA.
Christmas Crowds at Disneyland Park
Full House.  I can't remember the last time I have seen this theater completely full.
Christmas Crowds at Disney’s California Adventure 
Crowds continue into the night.
Main Street U.S.A. gridlocked
Helium Balloons soar over Main Street crowds. 
Fireworks soar even higher!
Cast Members ready to greet guests. 
Carsland.
May your journey into the new year be smooth!

Enjoying the photos? Comment below to let the Photographers know!

The Year of the Ear

Earlier today, Disney announced as part of their Limited Time Magic Promotion, they will be releasing special new mouse ears and head ware every month at Both The Disneyland Resort and The Walt Disney World Resort.

Some ears will be exclusive to respective parks.

Believe in Magic with the 2013 Disney Parks Merchandise Collection

By Steven Miller on the Disney Parks Blog:

“Believe
I generally believe I’m a lucky guy. I have two wonderful children, loving parents, an amazing girlfriend, and I work at the happiest place on Earth. While the New Year arrives with a number that some may consider unlucky, I believe that 2013 will be a lucky and magical year. Believing in magic is the theme that Disney Theme Park Merchandise selected for the 2013 dated art programs. The foundation for this new program is the style guide that Disney Design Group completed in November 2011. I recently took a closer look at the style guide to see what artwork is coming to merchandise in the New Year.

“Believe
The 2013 style guide contains a variety of logos, graphics and patterns that give one consistent look for the merchandise. Artists and merchandisers can use elements from the style guide on all sorts of items fromdrinkware to plush to coffee mugs. Sorcerer Mickey and his hat are both prominently featured in the 2013 artwork. I particularly like how his silhouette was incorporated in the logos for Disneyland and Walt Disney WorldResorts (something I’ve not seen before). I also liked the creative use of “13” in the word “believe.”

“Believe
At many merchandise locations in Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, you will see visually impressive statements containing all kinds of 2013 merchandise. These statements make shopping easier for guests, as dated merchandise is some of the most popular souvenirs from Disney Parks.

“Believe
Guests can also find an assortment of 2013 merchandise on the Disney Parks online store. One of the more unique items currently in the shop is a tie-dyed shirt for Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort that has Sorcerer Mickey and friends facing off against several Disney Villains.

Disney Design Group created alternate art program for 2013 that you may recall seeing in a recent Disney Parks Blog video. Stay tuned as I will be giving a closer look at the amazing oversized posters from the 2013 calendar that will also make their way to pins, Vinylmation, iPhone covers and apparel next year.

Disneyland Scholarship Application Now Available!

For the first time, the Disneyland Resort is awarding ten (10) $7,500 scholarships to high school seniors in Orange County. The Disneyland Resort Scholarship Program underscores the Resort’s dedication to volunteerism and community support, while furthering opportunities for students to attend college or a professional trade school. Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate excellence in volunteerism, academics, and overall leadership.

Qualified applicants, who apply through Jan. 31, will receive two Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Tickets. If you know a qualified high school senior in Orange County, direct him or her to the Disneyland Resort Public Affairs website to apply.

Hayley Nance’s 12/8/12 DLR Photo Report

Hayley recently took a trip to the Disneyland Resort and captured some magic to share!

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Snowcars in Disney’s California Adventure
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Gingerbread cone-houses in Disney’s California Adventure
Mater decorated for the holidays 
Cozy Cone Holiday Decorations 
John Lasseter appeared in Disney’s California Adventure, showing new merchandise
Fit-it Felix!
Get into the game of Fix-it Felix Jr.
It’s A Small World has new 2013 moon.

  

Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay

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Indiana Jones is back up and running!

Thanks Haylay for the pictures! 

Conner Purzycki’s 12/14/12 DLR Photo Report

Conner went to the Disneyland Resort and captured some merchandise and gallery magic!

 

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New Oswald Merchandise
Holiday Merchandise 
Themed Carmel Apples 
New Exhibit! 
Explanation of the new ride at Magic Kingdom.
Construction continues.
Check out the new exhibit for more artwork! Thanks Conner! 

WDWNT: The Magazine Issue 16 Released

We’re happy to announce the release of issue 16 of WDWNT: The Magazine. This is clearly turning out to be the Summer of Disney.  Although the calendar may not agree, the Disney Summer kicked off with The Avengers, and now hits the highest of high points with the opening of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street.  The transformation of Disney California Adventure has been nothing short of spectacular, and it’s given us fans something to enjoy for years to come.

With that in mind, this issue summarizes WDWNT’s coverage of the Grand Re-Opening of DCA.  We also take the opportunity to look at some of Disney’s other large projects, such as the newest DVC resort, Aulani, and Pixar’s latest film, Brave.  We also cover a diverse range of other topics such as Disney voice actors, a look at a Disney Wedding, ticket prices over the years, attempting the ultimate Avengers marathon, and finally, a look at the tremendous work being done by Give Kids the World.

We hope that you will find the articles within both entertaining and educational.  If you have any suggestions or feedback, we are always happy to hear from our readers.  Just send an email to WDWNTthemagazine@wdwnt.com and share your thoughts.

As a reminder, the magazine is available in digital form from our website (http://www.wdwntthemagazine.com) or in printed form from MagCloud (http://www.magcloud.com).  If you like what you read, please share it with your friends.

Live Coverage of Cars Land, Buena Vista Street, and the Re-Dedication of California Adventure!

While it may not be happening at Walt Disney World, WDWNT will be heading out to California to cover all the festivities at the Disneyland Resort over the next week. From the grand opening of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street, to the premiere of new entertainment such as the Voices of Liberty, Streetmosphere, and more, the WDWNT Network will bring you closer to the excitement than anyone else. We’ve even set up a special live coverage site at www.DisneylandNewsToday.com/DCALive to make it easier and faster to connect with everything going on. The page brings together the in-depth coverage that will be found on Disneyland News Today’s website, the up-to-the-minute tweeting from @DLNT, and even live video streaming which we will be offering from a few select events during the week.

Coverage begins tomorrow at the official media festivities for Cars Land. Even once the media events wrap-up on the 15th, we will continue our coverage of what’s happening at the Disneyland Resort through June 20th. We hope you will join us as The Happiest Place on Earth Gets Even Happier!

Tim Alcoser’s 9/14/12 DLR Photo Report

Tim gives us a detailed look at the Big Thunder Ranch Halloween Roundup, the Halloween decorations in Disneyland, plus a look at the changed windows down Buena Vista Street.

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Construction of an outdoor patio/dining area.

Earl of Sandwich construction

Halloween Roundup at Big Thunder Ranch

Ghost Galaxy is back for the holiday

Pumpkins are everywhere to decorate Main Street

The iconic & popular photo spot during Halloween

City Hall still under wraps

Half Staff for Ambassador Stevens.

Half Staff for Ambassador Stevens over @ DCA

Entrance to Turtle Talk with Crush next to the restrooms in between Off the Page and Disney JR on Stage.

Entrance to Turtle Talk with Crush next to the restrooms in between Off the Page and Disney JR on Stage.

The merchandise which has been added to the Buena Vista Street’s artistically designed windows. It’s disappointing to see Imagineer’s hard work covered up by generic merchandise.

Thanks for reading!

8 Game Plans For Your Trip to DCA

From Disneyland News:

What Fun Itinerary Will You Plan at the Newly Expanded Park?

Anaheim, CA  (June 25, 2012) – The grand reopening of Disney California Adventure Park brings new adventures for guests of all ages, including the exciting Cars Land, Buena Vista Street and Carthay Circle Theatre. All the new attractions, entertainment and experiences complement the classic favorites, offering something for everyone – from the thrill seeker to the guest who likes to play after dark.

To help Disneyland Resort guests plan a full day of their favorite experiences, here are eight themed itineraries to try – and build upon – for an upcoming visit to Disney California Adventure. With new, extended hours, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. all summer long, guests will have more time to enjoy all the fun.

Thrill Seekers Adventure

Already home to six of the highest-rated attractions at the Disneyland Resort, Disney California Adventure is a thrill seeker’s paradise.  With the new “E Ticket” Radiator Springs Racers at Cars Land, this itinerary is packed with flying, spinning, screaming, soaring and racing fun that any thrill seeker would love.

  • Radiator Springs Racers (new at Cars Land)
  • Twilight Zone™  Tower of Terror
  • California Screamin’
  • Soarin’ Over California
  • Silly Symphony Swings
  • Goofy’s Sky School
  • Grizzly River Run

The Show Stopper

This show-stopping itinerary is worthy of an encore. From “A Whole New World” to “World of Color,” Disney California Adventure features some of the best entertainment the Disneyland Resort has to offer. Head down the rabbit hole or be immersed in storytelling as nearly 1,200 fountains light up the night with these interactive, immersive shows.

  •  ”Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular”
  • “Red Car Newsboys” (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Five & Dime (new singing act on Buena Vista Street)
  • Ursula’s Grotto, Sorcerer’s Workshop (Disney Animation Building)
  • “Pixar Play Parade”
  • “Disney Junior – Live on Stage!”
  • Mad T Party (new at Hollywood Land)
  • “World of Color”
  • “Phineas & Ferb’s Rockin’ Rollin’ Dance Party”
  • Live music on Paradise Pier (At the gazebo near Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta and Paradise Garden Grill)

The Night Cap

When the sun goes down, Disney California Adventure sets the stage for a magical, nighttime experience. Watch as Cars Land flips the switch from day to night and enjoy the illumination of Route 66 with its amazing neon signs.  Don’t miss a twinkling view of the skyline from the top of Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror and catch all the fun, music and games at Mad T Party.

  • Cars Land Neon Lighting (new at Cars Land)
  • Dinner at Carthay Circle Restaurant or Golden Vine Winery, with reserved viewing for “World of Color”
  • Carthay Circle Lounge (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Twilight Zone® Tower of Terror
  • Hot Chocolate, Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop (new at Pacific Wharf)
  • Mad T Party (new at Hollywood Land)
  • “World of Color” (with new update from DisneyPixar movie “Brave”)

Nature Lovers

This itinerary invites nature lovers to “branch out” and experience the beautiful horticulture that spreads across Disney California Adventure.  More than 450 new trees have been planted in Cars Land alone, and the additon of trees throughout the park adds shade for more guest comfort. From the tall pines around Grizzly Mountain to the small cacti in Cars Land, guests will enjoy all the beautiful surroundings in the park.

  • Golden State Winery Cork Oak at the Golden Vine Winery (Pacific Wharf)
  • Grizzly Peak Pine Trees (Grizzly Peak)
  • Ficus Auriculate – Roxburgh Fig (“a bug’s land”)
  • Cars Land “Ironwood” Tree – Olneya Tesota (new at Cars Land)
  • Cars Land Claret Cup Cactus (new at Cars Land)

A Day With Character

Getting up close and personal with favorite characters is one of the best ways to enjoy a day at Disney California Adventure.  Guests will enjoy being immersed in the stories of classic Disney characters and Pixar pals, plus there are many opportunities to greet favorite characters. Guests may talk with Crush, sing along with Minnie and go under the sea with Ariel on this character-filled itinerary.

  • Greet Lightning McQueen and Mater (new at Cozy Cone Motel, Cars Land)
  • Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree (new at Cars Land)
  • The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
  • Minnie’s Fly Girls Charter Airline (new at Condor Flats)
  • Toy Story Mania!
  • “Pixar Play Parade”
  • Redwood Creek Challenge Trail with Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s “Up”
  • Turtle Talk with Crush at Disney Animation Building
  • The Beast’s Library, Sorcerer’s Workshop, at Disney Animation Building
  • Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
  • Muppet*Vision 3D
  • Ariel’s Grotto Princess Character Dining

A Shopper’s Paradise

With the additions of Buena Vista Street and Cars Land, guests  have even more opportunies to shop to their heart’s content. Whether it’s at Radiator Springs Curios or Big Top Toys, the new shops are a great place to find a souvenir that reflects a day filled with memories.  Add that to the classic merchandise experiences of Disney California Adventure and this itinerary will be added to everyone’s shopping list.

  • Oswald’s (new on Buena Vista Street featuring autograph books, hats, bags and souvenirs)
  • Los Feliz Five & Dime (new on Buena Vista Street featuring t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, figurines, souvenirs and character merchandise)
  • Big Top Toys (new on Buena Vista Street featuring interactive toys, games and plush)
  • Elias & Co.  (new on Buena Vista Street featuring posters, clothing, souvenirs and collectible items)
  • Radiator Springs Curios (new at Cars Land featuring souvenirs)
  • Ramone’s House of Body Art (new at Cars Land featuring clothing and souvenirs)
  • Sarge’s Surplus Hut (new at Cars Land featuring clothing, hats, toys and plush)
  • Seaside Souvenirs (featuring Paradise Pier themed souvenirs and merchandise)

A Tour Full of Flavor
Sometimes it’s all about the vittles – and Disney California Adventure is a foodie’s paradise.  Comfort food, gourmet meals, regional specialties, signature cocktails and even delectable vintages are all available on this tour through the park.  From small bites to fine dining, guests’ palates will be met with some of the best food and drink options from around the Resort.

  • Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Trolley Treats (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • Flo’s V8 Café (new at Cars Land featuring Route 66 inspired comfort food)
  • Cozy Cone Motel (new at Cars Land featuring “cone” themed snacks)
  • Fillmore’s Taste-In (new at Cars Land featuring fresh fruits, juices and water)
  • Wine Country Trattoria (featuring Mediterranean style cuisine)
  • Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
  • Carthay Circle Restaurant (new on Buena Vista Street)
  • The Cove Bar (featuring American style bar appetizers)
  • Pacific Wharf Café (featuring salads, soups and bread bowls)
  • Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop (new at Pacific Wharf)
  • Corn Dog Castle
  • Ariel’s Grotto (featuring character dining for breakfast and lunch)
  • “World of Color” picnic dinners; includes reserved viewing for the show

Child’s Play Tour

 

 

 

This itinerary is a good fit for parents and grandparents who are entertaining younger guests.  These attractions are fun for all ages and cover the entire park.  Whether it’s floating on air at Luigi’s Flying Tires or playing at bug’s eye-level in “a bug’s land,” there are so many places to make memories together for the entire family.

  • Luigi’s Flying Tires (new at Cars Land)
  • Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree (new at Cars Land)
  • “Dancing with Disney” (new at Stage 17)
  • “Instant Concert … Just Add Water,” daytime fountain show at Paradise Bay with Maestro Goofy
  • Heimlich’s Chew Chew Train
  • Flik’s Flyers
  • King Triton’s Carousel
  • Golden Zephyr
  • Games of the Boardwalk featuring beloved Disney characters
  • Toy Story Mania!
  • Animation Academy (Disney Animation Building)