Behind the Wall: Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park
posted on September 26th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print
On Friday, Blue Sky Cellar re-opened at Disney California Adventure park with new looks inside the continuing development of Buena Vista Street and Cars Land. Among the behind-the-scenes peeks featured are these images, which show Cars Land in its current state of production.
You can see Radiator Springs Racers continuing to take shape, with details like the bridge in the photo above beginning to peek through.
In this photo, you can see the double track where cars will soon be speeding around this banked turn.
Elsewhere in Radiator Springs, the round facade of Flo’s V8 Cafe is recognizable, and across the street (pictured below) Sally’s Cozy Cones are springing up.
Check back here on the Disney Parks Blog for more updates on Cars Land as we look forward to its Summer 2012 opening.
‘The Poor Chef’ Replaces Cat at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
posted on September 26th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer
Chef Cat Cora’s appearance at this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is canceled and in her place is Charles Mattocks, known as “The Poor Chef” whose familiar line is, “What can you cook for $7?”
Nephew of legendary reggae singer Bob Marley, his affordable, healthful creations with an island flair have been showcased on “The Dr. Oz Show.” The Emmy-nominated actor’s most recent production is “The Diabetic You,” aimed at education and inspiring diabetics. And he’s also a proponent of teaching children to eat and shop for healthful foods.
Mattocks will be on stage at the Kitchen Memories event from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, Oct. 28. To book the event, go to Disneyworld.com/foodandwine. Epcot theme park admission is required. You also can call 407-WDW-FEST.
Behind the Scenes: Walt Disney Imagineers Develop Dumbo for the Disney Fantasy
posted on September 26th, 2011 by Jason Lasecki, Public Relations Director, Disney Cruise Line
“What’s more ‘Fantasy’ than a flying elephant?”
That’s the thought that inspired Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) to select Dumbo and his pal, Timothy Q. Mouse, as the characters who will represent the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship.
Check out the video below (shared by WDI), in which Imagineers Joe Lanzisero, Bob Zalk and Jason Abruzzese offer a behind-the-scenes look at how the new Disney Cruise Line ship’s icon came to life.
For more on the construction progress of the Disney Fantasy, see these posts:
- Final Building Block Added to Disney Fantasy
- See it in Action: Building Blocks Added to the Disney Fantasy
- Adults Can Explore a World of Their Own at Europa on the Disney Fantasy
Sights and Sounds of the Big City at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
posted on September 26th, 2011 by Gene Duncan, Photographer, Walt Disney World Resort
Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort contains many wonderful and dramatic shows and attractions, but the one that I especially enjoyed exploring this week is New York Street. A totally immersive experience of striding through bustling New York City, with all its diversity of architecture, then turning the corner onto San Francisco was absolutely delightful. Combine the authentic sounds of the city with the amazing attention to detail (Walt Disney Imagineering!), and one could be totally transported to another place and time.
Here’s a look at more of what Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers guests:
- Cooling Off on New York Street at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Vintage Walt Disney World: Walt’s Memorabilia Finds a Home at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Go Behind the Scenes at The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap
posted on September 25th, 2011 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks
Wow, how about that for a week on the Disney Parks Blog. We shared several big announcements, including exciting news of our long-term creative partnership with James Cameron’s Lightstorm Entertainment and Fox Filmed Entertainment to bring the fantasy world of AVATAR to life at Disney Parks. Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort is planned as the site of the first AVATAR-themed land with construction expected to begin by 2013.
Hours after we posted the announcement, Tom Staggs, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, answered some of your questions right here on the blog. If you missed it, here are Tom’s answers.
And it just got better at the end of the week when we announced the official opening of Aulani, our new resort and spa on Oahu. Tom and Bob Iger were joined by guests and Mickey and Minnie for the official dedication of the resort. Check out Tom’s post for some great images of the night.
The great stories didn’t stop there. Check the links below for some of the others we worked on this week.
New Halloween Merchandise Arrives at Disney Parks – Senior Character Artist with Disney Design Group Cody Reynolds gives us a look at this year’s newest Halloween merchandise.
Pirates Take Over the Disney Parks Blog – Commandeered by some scallywag pirate authors on International Talk Like a Pirate Day, the blog featured some unique content for readers to enjoy.
Cake Boss Coming to Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – We get a peek inside Buddy Valastro’s Hoboken bakery, where Buddy spent a few minutes telling us about his upcoming demo at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.
Frightful Fun at Disneyland Resort! – Many locations throughout Disneyland Resort are set to meet all of your Halloween needs including World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney District and Disney Showcase in Disneyland park.
Disney Cruise Line Doubles the ‘Aloha’ with Second Hawaiian Cruise – Pack your bags, don your lei and get ready to say “aloha” to Hawai’i as Disney Cruise Line announces the addition of a second Hawai’i cruise to their 2012 schedule!
A Halloween ‘Treat’ from Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park – We give readers a sneak peek at this year’s “Boo to You” parade, featuring the addition of three new Disney characters.
Catch Disney Parks on the ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ Premiere Sept. 25
posted on September 24th, 2011 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager
Set your DVRs! Magic Kingdom Park will be featured on the season premiere of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” this Sunday, Sept. 25, from 7-9 p.m.
The two-hour episode focuses on the Marshalls, a military family residing in Fayetteville, N.C., who are committed to helping homeless female veterans. Barbara Marshall, a 15-year Navy Veteran, established the Steps-N-Stages Jubilee House, where she provides life coaching and mentoring to individuals in need. But, the Marshalls can only do so much in the space that they have.
While the “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” team worked their magic in Fayetteville, the family vacationed at the Walt Disney World Resort, where they served as the guests of honor at a military-family themed parade, met the Green Army Men from “Toy Story” and participated in the park’s flag retreat ceremony.
Here’s a preview of their “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” experience.
One-Stop Searching: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
posted on September 24th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print
Now that Aulani is officially open, let’s take a look back at some of the updates we’ve brought you here on the Disney Parks Blog about the new Disney resort and spa in Hawai`i.
This week, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, celebrated its official grand opening in Ko Olina, Hawai’i.
Video Highlights from Aulani Grand Opening Celebration – Take a look at exclusive video highlights from the spectacular Grand Opening celebration at Aulani.
Tradition and Magic at the Grand Opening of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – With invited guests, local Hawaiian officials and members of the media in the audience, the Grand Opening Ceremony took place on the beach of Aulani’s lagoon with the resort itself serving as the backdrop.
Final Preparations for Aulani Grand Opening Celebration Underway – As Aulani prepared for its Grand Opening Celebration, Mickey Mouse showed Walt Disney Company President and CEO Bob Iger and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs just how inviting the Waikolohe Pool really is!
Taro Patch at Aulani Entrance Goes Back to the Roots of Hawaiian Culture – Brimming with Hawaiian culture, Disney’s Aulani resort is a treasure trove of knowledge. Watch as one of the island’s legendary taro farmers, Calvin, shows readers how to pick the perfect taro plant.
Learn to Hula at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – Erin learns the history behind this traditional Hawaiian dance and masters a few basics along the way.
Laniwai – A Spa With the Magic of Aulani – Aulani’s Spa Director Lucia Rodriguez takes readers on a tour of some of the wonder of Laniwai, from the outdoor hydrotherapy garden to the six different rain showers.
The resort welcomed its first guests late last month.
It’s Here! Aulani Opens its Doors to the First Guests – As the sun rose over Ko Olina, Hawai‘i, Aulani opened its doors and welcomed its first guests.
Local Community Celebrates as Aulani Prepares to Welcome its First Guests – At approximately 6:30 a.m. Hawai‘i time, as the sun came over the mountain, the doors to the Maka‘ala lobby of Aulani opened and the first guests entered.
Video: First Guests Arrive at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – Before checking in, the Mahi family was told that they were named the First Honorary Family and that they would be able to participate in the opening ceremony for Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa.
Though not without its Disney touches, Aulani is heavily influenced by the Hawaiian culture and local community.
Student Photographers Bring a Unique Rainbow to Aulani – Aulani has its own distinctive rainbow in Ko Olina, Hawai`i, created from a selection of work by a very special group of young artists.
Progress Continues at Aulani, With Inspiration Taking Shape Outside and Inside – We shared details about the unique interior “look” of the resort, brought to life by many pieces of art and decor created by local artists.
More Construction at Aulani – This Time, Completed in One Day! – Disney VoluntEARS joined community residents, volunteers from Ka Waihona o ka Na‘auao Public Charter School and organizers from KaBOOM, a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing play spaces for children throughout the country, to build a new playground and garden in Wai’anae.
The Taro Patch – A Hawaiian Tradition Grows at the Entrance to Aulani – Elliot Mills, Managing Director of Aulani, describes the taro/kalo patch just outside the main entrance to the resort.
Popular Hawaiian Singer/Songwriter Provides Soundtrack for Aulani – When guests enter the Maka‘ala Lobby at Aulani, one of their first impressions will be of the music they hear, specially written and recorded for the resort by one of Hawai‘i’s most popular singers and songwriters, Keali‘i Reichel, and Grammy Award-winning composer Mark Mancina.
We’ve kept you updated on the construction progress of Aulani from the very beginning, offering exclusive videos and behind-the-scenes looks.
Aloha from Aulani – Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs explains what makes the resort so unique.
An Early Peek at Aulani – Disney Parks Blog readers’ first glimpse into Aulani features a look at the resort’s lobby.
A Closer Look at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, With Joe Rohde and Djuan Rivers – Enjoy a special look at Disney’s newest resort with Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde and Vice President, Disney Vacation Club and Resort, Hawai`i, Djuan Rivers.
Aulani – From the Ground Up – Watch as the resort takes shape right before your eyes in this special time lapse video.
Today is a Milestone for Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – Watch as Aulani gets one step closer to completion in this breathtaking aerial video of the site.
It’s Time to Add the Magic, So Mickey Hits the Beach at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – Mickey, Minnie and their pals joined the celebration as the construction crew “handed over the keys” to Disney cast members.
Construction Wraps Up at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i – Imagineer Joe Rohde gives readers a video tour of the resort as the finishing touches are finalized.
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – From Bottom to Top in Seconds – With Aulani finally completed, we share another time lapse video of the resort’s construction from beginning to end.
Even before its completion, Aulani welcomed special visitors to its beaches – sometimes in unexpected ways.
One Year to Aulani Resort Opening! Mickey Hits the Beach in Hawai`i – Watch as artists bring surfer Mickey to the sands of Aulani in this exclusive time lapse video.
Go Behind the Magic at Aulani with Samantha Brown – Travel guru Samantha Brown gives fans a behind-the-scenes look at Aulani.
With its endless activities, luxurious amenities and family atmosphere, Aulani offers something for everyone.
Waikolohe Stream: Journey Along ‘Mischievous Waters’ Will Be an Aulani Highlight – Inspired by the natural landscape of the islands themselves, Aulani’s Waikolohe Stream takes guests on a floating tube journey through eye-catching lava outcropping and misty caverns.
Ulana – A Spa for the Entire Family at Aulani – With 15 treatment rooms, a comprehensive outdoor water area and a separate spa for teens, Ulana (now “Laniwai”) is a full-service spa featuring treatments for individuals, couples and entire families.
Update on the Spa at Aulani – Lucia Rodriguez, Spa Director of Aulani, describes how you’ll be immersed in the magical Laniwai spa experience from the moment you enter.
Say Aloha to Your Honeymoon in Hawaii at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – Aulani is the perfect place to start your happily-ever-after, offering a picturesque romantic setting for your destination honeymoon.
Coming to Aulani – Mo‘olelo Beachside Fire Pit Storytelling – Aulani Entertainment Executive Producer Sayre Wiseman tells the story behind the fire pit storytelling location at the resort.
Kids at Aulani Will Discover Fun in a Play Area Left by the Menehune – The mysterious little people of the islands, the Menehune, left a very special water play area for younger children – Menehune Bridge.
A Look ‘Below the Surface’ at Aulani – Rainbow Reef, the unique interactive snorkeling experience in the Waikolohe Valley recreation space, is one of the fun adventure highlights of a vacation at Aulani.
Where to Find Disney Characters and Buffet Dining at Aulani – One place you’ll always find some of your favorite Disney characters at Aulani is “Aunty’s Breakfast Celebration at the Makahiki” on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays.
Many Ways to Get Wet at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawai‘i – Which do you prefer? Swimming? Snorkeling? The slides? The lazy river? That terrific lagoon? It’s all at Aulani.
Aulani Rooms Provide a Comfortable Home Base for Families on Hawaiian Vacation – Elliot Mills, Managing Director of Aulani, point out some creative highlights and creature comforts of Aulani guest rooms.
It’s a Real Beach House! Aunty Makes a Place for Kids at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – A little piece of island lifestyle tucked into the resort, Aunty’s Beach Club at Aulani offers kids a unique experience.
Learning and Libations with Gary at the `Olelo Room – Stop by the `Olelo Room for a pia (beer) and a crash course in the Hawaiian language. Gary takes you inside this unique bar with his latest Aulani report.
We gave readers a sneak peek at some of Aulani’s hidden residents.
The Mysterious Menehune Hide Throughout Aulani – According to Hawaiian legend, the little Menehune are shy folk who come out mostly at night, but at Aulani you’ll find them hiding under tables, in the forest and hidden in corners where they are most likely to be first discovered by kids.
Hidden Magic in Even the Most Eye-Catching Aulani Landmark – Djuan Rivers, Vice President of Disney Vacation Club and Resort, Hawaii, takes readers on a trip through the Waikolohe Valley. Can you spot some hidden faces along the way?
Hunting for Menehune at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – Our intrepid reporter, Gary, visited the resort with a quest: to seek out and find as many Menehune as he could in this Disney Parks Blog-exclusive video.
Set on the beautiful island of O’ahu, Aulani offers no shortage of picturesque backdrops and memorable moments. Luckily, we caught a few along the way to share with readers.
Romance in Paradise at the Aulani Resort and Spa – Walt Disney World Resort Photographer Gene Duncan captures a picturesque moment with Mickey and Minnie on the beaches of Ko Olina.
Mickey Watches Over Aulani – Some “hidden Mickeys” are more magical than others; can you spot the one caught by Disneyland Resort Entertainment Manager Chris Strong?
Marvelous Moonlight at Aulani – Take a look as the moon sets on the lagoon at Aulani at just the perfect time.
Video Highlights from Aulani Grand Opening Celebration
posted on September 23rd, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print
Earlier today, Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs shared with you a look back at the spectacular Grand Opening celebration for Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa. Many of you have been asking on Twitter for video from the ceremony. Below we’ve put together some of the highlights, but if you’d like to watch the entire ceremony, click over to www.disneylandevent.com/aulani.
Blue Sky Cellar Open Today with New Disney California Adventure Park Updates
posted on September 23rd, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print
After a short closure, Blue Sky Cellar opened again today with new sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes looks at the continuing transformation of Disney California Adventure park. Guests will be able to view new videos, models and renderings to learn even more about the exciting changes coming to the park. Among the new artwork, you’ll also find three new attraction posters, including the one above featuring the new Red Car Trolley, coming to Buena Vista Street when it opens next year.
Also featured in Blue Sky Cellar are posters for current guest favorites – The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Soarin’ Over California.
Be sure to stop by Blue Sky Cellar and keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for updates on Cars Land, Buena Vista Street and more.
Tiramisu with the ‘Cake Boss’ at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
posted on September 23rd, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer
UPDATE 9/26/2011: All “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro events have filled to capacity. Be sure to check the schedule for a listing of other chefs attending the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival this year.
“Cake Boss” fans will love this decadent tiramisu from Chef Buddy Valastro and it’s easier to make than you think. If you want to watch him make it in person, head out to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, where he’ll be onstage for a cooking demonstration in the Festival Welcome Center at 3 p.m. on October 8. His “Sweet Sundays” event on Sunday, October 9, is, alas, sold out.
To book the cooking demo, go to Disneyworld.com/foodandwine. Epcot theme park admission is required. You also can call 407-WDW-FEST.
See the posts below for more of what you can expect to see at this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival:
- Get First Taste of New Wine Exclusively for Disney Parks at This Year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
- Jamie Deen Back for This Year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
- ‘Best of Bocuse’ Dinner Details for Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
