Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park

Video: Spaceship Earth Transforms from Disney Parks Icon to Disney●Pixar ‘Eye-Con’

posted on April 26th, 2013 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks


Last night, a giant Mike Wazowski from the upcoming Disney●Pixar film “Monsters University” helped announce our first-ever three-park, all-night party at Disney Parks on Memorial Day Weekend, the traditional start of the family travel season. Eight projectors were used to transform the huge sphere of Spaceship Earth into the beloved character for the show at Epcot. Today, we have a behind-the-scenes look at how the teams made it happen.

 
The same artists who created Mike Wazowski for the upcoming Disney●Pixar film also created the animation for our Monstrous Summer announcement at Epcot. “You have all of these great partners working together for this one moment and it’s never happened before,” said Mike Roddy, senior show writer and director for Walt Disney Creative Entertainment. “What you’re seeing is really the first time we’ve done something like this.”

 
If you missed the announcement, the three-park all-night party is happening at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida and Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park in California. The parks will stay open from 6 a.m., May 24 to 6 a.m., May 25, 2013, local time.

  • In Florida, Magic Kingdom Park will feature a “Monsters University” theme where Mike and Sulley will be the Grand Marshals of the “Celebrate a Dream Come True” day parade and make appearances in Tomorrowland. There will be extra entertainment throughout the day and night, including characters in their pajamas in Town Square during the late night and early morning, and late-night dance parties in and around the courtyard of Cinderella Castle.
  • In California, you’ll be able to party the night away at both parks with special entertainment including: a “Monsters University” “TLT Monstrous” Dance Club and Star Wars characters in Tomorrowland and late-night Character Pajama Party in Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland park. The new Fantasy Faire Royal Theatre at Disneyland park will become a Royal Dance Hall late at night with a live band and dancing; and guests at Disney California Adventure park will find Monstrous photo opportunities with new “Monsters University” “dorms” in Hollywood Land and a new “Monsters University” float leading the Pixar Play Parade.

All three parks will feature limited-edition specialty merchandise and food and beverage offerings, plus other surprises throughout the entire day. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog and the Monstrous Summer site for more details in coming weeks.

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Vintage Walt Disney World: Growing Character at Epcot

posted on April 25th, 2013 by Nate Rasmussen, Archivist, Marketing Resource Center


Have you had a chance to visit the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival this year? The character topiaries throughout Future World and World Showcase are my favorite part. Topiaries have been a part of the Walt Disney World Resort for many years. Below, Goofy and Pluto admire their own topiaries back in 1985.

Goofy Admires His Topiary in 1985 Goofy Admires His Topiary in 1985

 
Pretty great for 1985, but they pale in comparison to their counterparts of today. Today our horticulture team creates topiaries that are even more advanced and realistic. Here’s a look at the 2013 version of Goofy and Pluto at the festival.
Goofy and Pluto Topiaries at the 2013 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

This year’s festival runs through May 19, so you still have time to see all of the amazing topiaries throughout Epcot.


Read on for more “Vintage Walt Disney World”:

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Top Five Best-Selling Dishes at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

posted on April 24th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager


Did you know that one new offering at this year’s Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival are a selection of Garden Marketplaces around World Showcase?

Our friends in Food & Beverage just shared with us the top-five best-selling dishes at this year’s event. Check them out:

    Pork Slider at BBQ & Brews Kiosk at the American Pavilion

  1. Pork Slider (BBQ & Brews Kiosk at the American Pavilion)
  2. Beef Brisket (BBQ & Brews Kiosk at the American Pavilion)
  3. Potato Pancake (Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market at the German Pavilion)
  4. Shrimp & Grits at Florida Fresh Marketplace on the Mexico Side of World Showplace
     

  5. Shrimp & Grits (Florida Fresh marketplace on the Mexico side of World Showplace)
  6. Salmon-Cottage (The Cottage: Savories, Trifles and Tea – United Kingdom)

Oh, and if you’re in for drinks and dessert as well, try Pineapple Upside Down Cake and the Dole Whip (with or without rum), which are both located at the Pineapple Promenade near the Canada Pavilion.

Have you tried any of these? Tell us what you think in the “Comments” section below!

Read on for more updates from the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival:

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HGTV Magazine’s Sara Peterson Tours Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Marketplaces

posted on April 20th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager


Sara Peterson, editor-in-chief of HGTV Magazine, will take the HGTV Designers’ Stage at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival this weekend to talk tips on boosting your home’s curb appeal.

While she was here on Friday, she took time to sample a few of the Garden Marketplaces located around World Showcase. Check out her review below!

You can catch Sara at the HGTV Designer’s Stage at noon and 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

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Hot, Cold ‘Cones’ Debuting at Walt Disney World Resort

posted on April 18th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer


We’re enjoying the new Les Halles Boulangerie & Patisserie and Monsieur Paul, the re-imagined upstairs restaurant at the France Pavilion at Epcot. But there’s more: look for the new L’Artisan des Glaces, Artisan Ice Cream & Sorbet to open by mid-June in the pavilion’s former bakery space.
Pistachio Ice Cream at the New L’Artisan des Glaces, Artisan Ice Cream & Sorbet
This delightful little shop will offer 16 different flavors – 10 ice creams and six sorbets are on the menu (still a work in progress). “Everything will be made in-house with the simplest, fresh ingredients – milk, sugar, cream, eggs and fruit,” says general manager Eric Weistroffer.

The frozen treats will be available by the scoop in cups or cones – and for grown-ups, there’s the option of adding liqueurs, says Weistroffer.
Chili Cone Queso at the New L’Artisan des Glaces, Artisan Ice Cream & Sorbet
Meanwhile, you don’t have to journey to Disneyland Resort to try one of the super-popular, savory cones from Cozy Cone Motel in Disney California Adventure park at Cars Land. They’re now on the menu at Marketplace Snacks in front of Team Mickey at Downtown Disney Marketplace at Walt Disney World Resort. Take your pick of the meaty Chili Cone Queso topped with shredded cheese and crispy corn chips (our favorite), or the hearty meatball cone. Both are served in a thick bread “cone” suitable for strolling while you enjoy.

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Wildlife Wednesdays: Party for the Planet to Celebrate 15th Anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Earth Day on April 22

posted on April 17th, 2013 by Jackie Ogden, Ph.D., Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment, Disney Parks


Wildlife Wednesdays: Party for the Planet to Celebrate 15th Anniversary of Disney's Animal Kingdom and Earth Day on April 22
As a proud member of the Disney’s Animal Kingdom opening team, I can say with assurance that every day is a Party for the Planet at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as guests and cast members join together to celebrate the wonders of nature. But on April 22 (Earth Day), in recognition of the park’s 15th anniversary, there will be even more natural magic. Here are some tips for all of you who are able to come:

  • Get there by 8:30 a.m.! While the park and its attractions don’t open until 9 a.m., the turnstiles will open at 8:30 a.m., and I am proud to be joining Disney’s Animal Kingdom Vice President Josh D’Amaro who is hosting a special 15th anniversary ceremony that will take place in front of the Tree of Life at 8:40 a.m.
  • Commemorative guide map: Be sure to pick one up when you enter the park. And while in the Main Entrance area, also pick up a keepsake postcard that serves as a Party for the Planet guide.
  • Special conservation button: Starting April 22 and for a limited time (until quantities run out), those who give to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF) at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will receive a commemorative 15th anniversary DWCF button.
  • Party for the Planet activities: In Africa, children will learn how to identify animals by observing tracks and other clues. In Asia, families will find out how choosing “green” products can make a big difference for wildlife and nature. At Rafiki’s Planet Watch, families will discover fun ways to spend time in nature and participate in activities inspired by the Disneynature films “African Cats,” “Chimpanzee,” and “Wings of Life.” Guests also can talk with cast members who work on conservation projects around the world.
  • Guest artists and special merchandise: Speak with specialists from Elemental Nursery and Just Plumerias, who will be on hand to feature their beautiful plants and topiaries, along with special guest appearances. There will be face painting with a variety of animal images and the opportunity to pose for a fun portrait, plus special 15th anniversary merchandise (quantities limited). Find out more here:
  • Speciality snacks: A party wouldn’t be a party without snacks–enjoy an Earth Day cupcake.

Wildlife Wednesdays: Party for the Planet to Celebrate 15th Anniversary of Disney's Animal Kingdom and Earth Day on April 22

Looking for more Earth Day fun during your visit to the Walt Disney World Resort? On April 22 at Epcot, which is celebrating the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, special Earth Day activities are taking place at The Seas with Nemo & Friends and Vision House in Innoventions, and be on the lookout for Earth Day activities at our resorts and Downtown Disney.

Upcoming 2013 events for connecting families with nature (as always, dates subject to change):

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom:

  • May 8: International Migratory Bird Day
  • May 23: World Turtle Day
  • June 5: Pollinator Day
  • July 25: Tiger Day
  • August 1: Primate Day
  • August: Cotton-Top Tamarin Month
  • September 5: International Vulture Awareness Day
  • September 26: Elephant Day
  • October 31: Bat Day
  • November 12: Rhino Day

At The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot:

  • May 18: Endangered Species Day
  • May 23: World Turtle Day
  • June 8: World Ocean Day
  • September 7: International Manatee Day
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Travel to Japan – No Passport Needed

posted on April 15th, 2013 by Gene Duncan, Photographer, Walt Disney World Resort


Travel to Japan- No Passport Needed
As we pause to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the opening of Tokyo Disneyland, I decided to take a walk through our own Japan Pavilion inside Epcot. I was immediately transformed by the tranquil environment, the gentle, smiling faces, and the beautiful art that surrounded me.

From bold bronze sculptures to the most delicately painted fabrics, I was truly transported into a magical and hypnotic culture through its artistic creations. I put this short slide show together to share just a few of the details that caught my eye. I hope you enjoy spending one minute in Japan, with no passport needed.

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Catch a Grilling Demo with PBS Chef George Hirsch at Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

posted on April 8th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer


With nine PBS cooking and lifestyle TV series and 12 seasons in syndication, Chef George Hirsch has fans around the world. Now you can see him in person at this year’s Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, where he’ll share grilling tips in the courtyard at American Adventure in World Showcase.

He launched his television career with the phrase, “If I can do it, you can do it!” and Chef George’s enthusiasm is contagious. His grilling tips are super easy to follow, like this short video on how to grill a perfect steak.

See Chef George’s Grill Live! complimentary demo at 1:15, 2:45 and 4:15 p.m. on April 26, 27 and 28, then again (same times) on the festival’s closing weekend on May 17, 18 and 19.

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Disney Parks ‘Quick Hits’ – ‘Limited Time Magic’ Offer, Calling All Canadians and Flower Power at Epcot

posted on April 5th, 2013 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks


Erin Glover will have a special “Limited Time Magic” update especially for Disneyland Resort fans later today, but I first wanted to let you know about a “Limited Time Magic” offer beginning next week at Walt Disney World Resort and share a few quick updates from around Disney Parks.

Disney Truck Stop Tee at Downtown Disney

For one week only, from April 8–14, the Disney Truck Shop (our newest shop on wheels) will be parked along the Downtown Disney Westside route, offering the chance to pick up a vintage-style limited release tee as part of “Limited Time Magic.”
“Disney

The tees have been inspired by the design and logo from the Disney Truck Shop, and they’ll be available while supplies last at Downtown Disney.

Calling All Canadians

And for Disney Parks Blog fans and readers in Canada, Breakfast Television, Toronto’s #1 morning show, will be broadcasting live from the Walt Disney World Resort on April 22 and 23, and the show is offering chances to see it all live. Visit the Breakfast Television site for details, but act quickly: today is the final day for entries. Also, we’re told that more Disney vacation giveaways will be revealed on Breakfast Television Toronto on April 22–23, and on Cityline, Canada’s longest-running daytime program for women, on April 23.

Flower Power Concert Series

Beginning tonight, The Turtles featuring Flo and Eddie will be taking the stage at Epcot for the Flower Power Concert Series. A Flower Power concert is a “must do” during the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. You can find a full musical lineup in our earlier story.

You can find updates on our latest extra sprinkle of pixie dust on Twitter using hashtag #LimitedTimeMagic and on our LimitedTimeMagic.com web page.

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Finish That Disney Parks Sign: A Cranium Command Flashback

posted on April 5th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager


Today’s “Finish That Disney Parks Sign” post is a flashback to a former Epcot attraction – Cranium Command at the Wonders of Life Pavilion.
“Can

In this sign, Buzzy seems to be looking for new recruits – but what’s his slogan? “We’re looking for a few good ___.” Do you recall the word that’s blurred out here? Let us know in the “Comments” section below.

“Can

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