With Mother’s Day behind us, the next big question lies on the horizon … what do you get dear old Dad? Father’s Day is less than a month away, so I guess this is where the line “Attention Shoppers!” comes in handy, because I have a few quick ideas to help make this shopping experience a breeze.

Looking for some doo-dads? World of Disney offers an entire line of D-Tech, which is sure to create some buzz. If your desired gift is more along the lines of something to wear, then check out some of our vintage graphic tees. Dads will dig it!

What about the trendy dads? Try Disney Vault 28, in particular on June 9 when Goorin Bros. joins the festivities, offering a new selection of hats, from retro-inspired fedoras to hip new cabbies. Need something with a little more “sole?” Then bring Dad down for a quick shoe shine before he steps out.

For the new dads? Quick and easy sweet treats from Marceline’s Confectionery – like caramel apples, fudge and dipped marshmallows and pretzels – are sure to be an instant hit.

Or for just … good ‘ol Dad! You know the type, a potentially huge Star Wars fan, a secret rock n’ roller, playing air guitar … or are you convinced he’s really a superhero in disguise? Any way you go about it you can’t go wrong at D Street. It’s sure to suit any retro fan, rock n’ roller or Marvel collector. So, remember to make sure Dad is dressed to a “tee” this year, especially with some of our newer offerings from the Double 5 collection featuring Mickey Mouse.

Looking for something a little more distinctive, eclectic or uncommon? Then it’s off to WonderGround Gallery you go, opening June 9, right in time to find that perfect gift for Dad’s home, office or man cave.

Catch ya later, Daddy-o… because, that’s all I’ve got for now! Look for more details on ArtofDisneyParks.com.

Tagged: Art of Disney, DLR, Downtown Disney

Filed: Art of Disney, Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District

Cinco de Mayo will be celebrated with food, fun and festivities in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort! Our favorite Cocina de Mexico, Tortilla Jo’s, will offer a special three-course Cinco de Mayo menu for $27, which will include:

First Course (choice of):

• Soupa de Chorizo con Pappas – Creamy Russet Potato Soup served with sautéed leeks and Mexican chorizo topped with a cilantro oil drizzle and crema fresca
• Ensalada de Berros – Crisp watercress tossed in orange bacon vinaigrette topped with shaved fennel, diced tomatoes, sunkist orange segments and grated parmesan cheese

Second Course (choice of):

• Pescado Estilo Veracruz – Pan-seared red snapper served with seasoned green onion fingerling potatoes topped with a jalapeno caper Veracruz sauce
• Tinga de Carne – Slow-roasted, shredded beef tinga on a bed of boston lettuce topped with cotija cheese and lemon crema fresca accompanied with Fresno chile frijoles and tortilla ribbons

Third Course:

• Panna Cotta de Vino Rojo – Creamy, slow-baked custard served with three dipping sauces: strawberry and red wine syrup, mint julip and lime glaze and coconut milk creme anglaise

Complete the celebration with specialty margaritas, including:

• Blanco Traditional Margarita – Karma Blanco tequila, fresh lime juice, simple syrup
• Margarita de Raspberry Rojo – Karma Reposado Tequila, fresh lime juice, raspberries, simple syrup with a float of Grand Marnier
• Green Melon Margarita – Karma Blanco tequila, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and float of Midori Melon Liqueur

Tortilla Jo’s will offer something for everyone! The entire family can join in the fun of the celebration with three pinata sessions at 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Early in the evening, the traditional sounds of Mexico will fill Tortilla Jo’s as we proudly present the Grammy award-winning Mariachi Divas from 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Audiences will also be delighted by the South American music played by the popular band Alturas nearby in the Downtown Disney District.

We invite you to join us in the Downtown Disney District for our Cinco de Mayo celebration – I hope to see you there!

Tagged: Dining, DLR, Downtown Disney

Filed: Disney Dining, Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District

There’s no denying that the Force is getting stronger by the day. I’m sure many of you are counting down the days until Star Wars Weekends kicks off at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. I’m a little jealous of those of you who get to go. My fellow Disney Parks Blog author, Gary Buchanan, always has so many great posts about the special appearances and events, so who wouldn’t want to be there? I have to admit … when I was little, I dressed up as Princess Leia for Halloween – white robe gown, cinnamon-style buns on the sides of my head and all (and no, you can’t see a picture). Before you fall out of your chair laughing at that visual, think back – because I bet many of you did the same thing. I’m pretty sure there were a lot of Princess Leias, Han Solos, Luke Skywalkers and Darth Vaders roaming around neighborhoods. (And with the continued popularity of the saga, there still are!)

So why the walk down memory lane? Because ACME Archives has just released a new collection of Star Wars-themed art which I know you are going to go crazy over. There’s an array of Star Wars characters posed in what could be considered “surrealism”-style paintings and even vacation destination-looking posters. I can’t keep you waiting any longer, so here’s your first look at some of these new pieces.

So, don’t let me be your only hope – make the jump to hyperspace and head for D Street in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort on May 5. Artist William Silvers and Creative Director Chris Jackson will be on hand from 3-6 p.m., and I can pretty much guarantee you won’t want to miss it. To check out other pieces in this collection, visit ArtofDisneyParks.com.

Tagged: Art of Disney, DLR, Downtown Disney, Star Wars

Filed: Art of Disney, Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District

Have you ever had a room or space for a million different ideas that immediately came to mind? Here at the Disneyland Resort, we’ve actually found that place, and I’m excited to be able to share with all of you that WonderGround Gallery is coming to the Downtown Disney District on June 9, 2012. Distinctive, eclectic and uncommon, this contemporary setting is, in itself, a blank canvas, providing the ultimate venue where unique art collections, works from a new generation of artists, and unexpected finds in home and lifestyle merchandise take center stage.

With its name giving a nod to the magic and wonder of Disney animation, WonderGround Gallery draws inspiration from Disney’s deeply rooted art and storytelling-driven heritage – especially the idea of stepping through the looking glass, which the greatest of art allows us to do. Showcasing artwork inspired by Disney●Pixar films, characters and icons, as well as paying tribute to the one and only Mickey Mouse, more than 25 local and domestic up-and-coming artists will have their unique interpretations available for you to add to your Disney collection. This variety of commissioned, original and limited-edition artwork reflecting various styles, techniques and mediums will provide an eclectic environment in this store.

I had the chance to briefly chat with Sonia Martins, Exhibit and Events Manager for this new location. “What I love about WonderGround is that it acts as a living, breathing environment for the arts,” says Sonia. “This gallery reaches a fresh and diverse audience by offering distinct art and lifestyle wares uniquely targeted to a savvy art crowd, as well as trendy Disney enthusiasts, both intrinsically connected to our growing technological society. When you blend technology with art, a new and innovative experience awaits. We are so excited to bring this vibrant energy to the Downtown Disney District.”

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so here’s a peek through the looking glass of what’s to come for this uncommon gallery.

Look for more details in the coming weeks on the Disney Parks Blog and of course, on ArtofDisneyParks.com, as we give you a first-hand look at some of the other artists, their artwork, and a list of some of the exciting events scheduled to take place, including our artists in residence, sketch artists and more.

Check out these posts for more news about the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort:

• Get Outside for Earth Day at the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort
• Newly Remodeled Sunglass Icon Flagship Store Coming to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort
• New Retro Collection Debuts at Disney Vault 28 in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort

Tagged: Art of Disney, DLR, Downtown Disney

Filed: Art of Disney, Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District

Happy Earth Month!

On Earth Day, April 22, bring your entire family to get outside and enjoy the benefits of nature with the following organizations at the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort from 12 – 5 p.m. Activities will be presented at no cost to encourage the next generation to spend more time outdoors, and its importance to their wellness!

• USA Volleyball – The pros who train Olympians will demonstrate how the sport is played and pull youngsters into the fun.
• Next Level Sports – Future athletes can shoot hoops and participate in kickball games.
• The First Tee of Los Angeles – Budding golfers will get pointers on how to hit the links with a perfect swing.
• Orange County Coastkeeper and The Coastal Conservation Network will share what it takes to keep our coastline and beaches safe for our wildlife.
• Sun Safe Tee will be on hand to educate sun-seekers about proper sun protection.
• DJ Wendy will be spinning tunes and hosting conservation trivia for chances to win ESPN Zone game cards.

Seedlings with planting instructions will be given to participants while supplies last, helping to cultivate the outdoors in addition to enjoying it!

Read these posts to learn more about conservation efforts at Disney Parks:

• Wildlife Wednesdays: Central Florida Kids Connect with Nature During a Special Day Camp at the Walt Disney World Resort
• Disneyland Resort Cast Members Educate Local Students About Water Conservation
• Every Role a Starring Role – Disneyland Resort Tram Driver

Tagged: Conservation, DLR, Downtown Disney

Filed: Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District

I am so excited to announce another terrific improvement coming soon to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort: a brand-new, fully remodeled Sunglass Icon store will open just in time for summer 2012!

As you approach the location, you will immediately be awed by the strong black architectural storefront portal that is offset by the soft glow of color-changing lights. The newly constructed flagship store will feature a focal wall made of two layers of patterned glass and a back layer with a two-way mirror to allow for visibility and dynamic reflections. The use of color-changing LED lights above the millwork and LED cubes hanging from the ceiling will add just the right touch of whimsy.

A new interactive feature will be the “Social Sun” screen which allows for a fun, social experience. Imagine trying on a new style of sunglasses, taking a picture and immediately emailing it to a friend or posting it to Facebook so friends and family can give feedback on your sunglass selection!

Sunglass Icon will open in June 2012. We look forward to this newly remodeled location and the 1,100 pairs of their top sunglass brands!

Tagged: DLR, Downtown Disney

Filed: Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District

A few weeks back my friend and fellow Disney Parks Blog author, Erin Catalano, gave you a sneak peek at the newest Dooney & Bourke collections that sent people running as part of Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend, and of course setting sail on the Disney Fantasy in order to add another exclusive piece to their own personal collections.

Well, West Coast Dooney & Bourke collectors and Disney fans, the wait is over, because we just got the scoop on a couple of new collections set to debut May 12 at Disney Vault 28 at the Disneyland Resort. First up is the Retro collection. This new line will be available in a variety of popular silhouettes including a wristlet, mini barrel, tassel tote, satchel and letter carrier as well as an iPad case. Prices range from $78 – $268. The Retro collection, which will remain exclusive to the Disneyland Resort, is sure to be a hit with Disney Parks guests.

“The word ‘Retro’ is certainly the best and most accurate way to describe this collection,” says Susan Foy, Disney Design Group Graphic Designer. “From the attraction, character and icon choices to the distinct color palette, it really gave us a great opportunity to incorporate a lot of detail into such an intricate design.”

I asked Susan what her favorite icon was from the print, and her response was simple: “Sleeping Beauty Castle, because it was created first and really set the tone for how the rest of it would lay out.” When it’s said and done, there’s almost something magical when you think about it that way.

Another collection that I’m excited to see first-hand, and debuting the same day on both coasts (at TrenD at Walt Disney World Resort and at Disney Vault 28 at the Disneyland Resort) is “Buttons”… which fellow author, Erin Catalano, will be sharing more details on in the coming weeks.

So make plans now to stop by Disney Vault 28 on May 12 and pick up some of this year’s must-have accessories from Dooney & Bourke. Special Note: Creative Director for Dooney & Bourke, Ian Ray, will be on hand from 2–5 pm for a special appearance and signing of these new collections.

Tip: Just a heads-up, Mother’s Day is May 13 this year, so if you’re still in search of that perfect gift for mom, think Dooney & Bourke and consider your problem solved.

Which one will you choose?

Tagged: DLR, Downtown Disney

Filed: Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney District