Friday was a magical evening here at Disneyland park, as hundreds of Disney Parks Blog readers gathered at the Fantasyland Theatre for their own showing of the new “Mickey and the Magical Map”!

It was a beautiful afternoon for a meet-up as guests entered Disneyland park on the way to the theatre.

And I was excited to find someone else in a Sorcerer Mickey-inspired outfit!

What did they find when they arrived at the theatre? Popcorn, of course!

After the show, we surprised guests with five magical giveaway prizes, inspired by Mickey Mouse and Disneyland. A few lucky guests came away winners, but the rest just got to practice their exasperated groans. If you were there, say it with me for old times … 6 – 4 – 0 – “aaaaarrrrrggggghhhh!!!”

Then I was joined onstage by some of the people who brought “Mickey and the Magical Map” to life: Tracy Halas, show director and choreographer; Mike Layman, technical director; and Scott Auerbach, art director; for a panel discussion on each of their roles in the show.

At the end of the event, guests were welcomed to enjoy the rest of the evening at Disneyland park! Were you at the Disney Parks Blog Magical Meet-Up? Tell us about it in the comments!

Tagged: DL, DLR, Meet-Up

Filed: Disneyland Park, Disneyland Resort

What a start to a Monstrous Summer at Disney Parks. From 6 a.m., May 24, to 6 a.m., May 25, guests experienced monster madness inside Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort, as well as Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park at the Disneyland Resort.

And for a full 24-hours, our team of Disney Parks Blog authors shared photos, videos and stories from the event, including updates from one author who visited all three parks – on both coasts – in one day. If you missed any of the fun, take some time this Memorial Day weekend to see the monster madness in the parks.

Well, now it’s time to say goodbye! It’s scary how much fun we’ve had at the Disneyland Resort over the past 24 hours, starting with fireworks all the way to partying in our pajamas. Thanks for following along, and if you joined us in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks today, I hope you had a monstrously good time!

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

There really is no greater joy than dancing in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park at 3:30 a.m. while eating chili con queso from the Cozy Cone Motel. I wanted to try all five CONEcoctions like my fellow Disney Parks Blog author Erin Glover once did, but I was short on time.

While in the last of my three Disney Parks for this Monstrous Summer “All-Nighter,” I also danced a little at the Mad T Party, took a ride through Monstropolis on Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue (seemed appropriate for today) and had my final cup of coffee at Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe.

I also took one more photo with my fiancee Jennifer at the “Storytellers” statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse on Buena Vista Street.

Today’s bi-coastal adventure was an amazing memory that I’ll never forget. Thank you for following along throughout the day. I realized one important thing during my coast-to-coast adventure – I’m proud to be a Disney cast member working in the most magical place on Earth. I hope to see you in the parks!

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Because what’s an all-nighter without your pajamas? Beginning at midnight, Disneyland park guests were treated to the Disney Character Pajama Party in Mickey’s Toontown. The party featured classic Disney cartoons, a Mickey Mouse Party Zone plus hot chocolate, milk and cookies. And of course, some of our favorite Disney friends were there in their pajamas!

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A few hours ago, Mickey’s Soundsational Parade made a special nighttime run down Main Street, U.S.A., on its way through Disneyland park.

Princess Tiana was there, of course, aboard her showboat float.

And my favorite float, featuring scenes and characters from “Mary Poppins,” looked spectacular as it rounded the Hub toward Fantasyland.

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Our 24 hours of fun has just come to a close at Magic Kingdom Park here at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Our team has had an absolute blast covering the kick off to Monstrous Summer over the last 24 hours – from our Monstrous Morning Meet-Up, that started before the park opened, to Dole Whips, lunch in New Fantasyland, night-time entertainment, and so much more!. Now it’s time to say goodnight! (Or should that be, “good morning’?).

What was your favorite part of our Monstrous 24-hour All-Nighter? Let us know in the comments section.

What better way to end my Monstrous day then getting some QT with the boss (in my pajamas, no less). He looks like he’s ready for the comfort of a nice, warm bed. Well, that wraps it up for me – I’ll see you again real soon (this coming Thursday) right here on the Disney Parks Blog.

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I arrived at the Disneyland Resort! I’m delighted to be back at the original Disney Park. When I arrived, the Monstrous Summer All-Night Party was in full swing. I grabbed a quick photo in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle (yes, the Scare Pig traveled with me all the way from Florida).

The nice part about this visit to Disneyland Resort is that I got to meet up with my fiancee Jennifer. We went on Star Tours – The Adventures Continue before taking the dance floor at Fantasy Faire Royal Theatre (I love swing dancing!).

I then stopped by my favorite Disneyland park attraction, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, for a Dole Whip float. Finally, I ended up at the Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square for a refreshing minty drink. I love visiting Disneyland park, as there is something so magical about this place. Next stop, Disney California Adventure park to complete my three Disney Park tour!

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Some would call my dance moves a bit scary. I’d say they’re monstrously awesome. (I imagine they’re somewhere in the middle.) Bringing my ‘A’ game, I joined still-wide-awake guests and danced ’til the wee hours at Disney’s Up All Night Dance Party. Check out the photo gallery below to see what a great time our guests are having!

Did you dance till dawn? Tell us below.

Mickey Mouse as a Jedi, Minnie Mouse as Princess Leia, Donald Duck as a Stormtrooper and Goofy as (a pants-less) Darth Vader … it’s a mash-up of all things awesome in Tomorrowland here at Disneyland park. Our Disney friends have donned their best Star Wars attire to greet guests at our all-night party. Check them out!

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At a time when we’re usually preparing Magic Kingdom Park for Saturday morning guests, Main Street, U.S.A., is still open, busy and beautiful. We wanted to share a rare look at what’s happening now – at three in the morning.

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Put on your dancing shoes, Disneyland! The Royal Theatre inside Fantasy Faire at Disneyland park has turned into a Royal Swing Ball for the Monstrous Summer “All-Nighter.” Check out this swinging photo!

And don’t forget – the “Jump, Jive, Boogie Swing Party” returns to the Royal Theatre for select nights during the summer beginning June 15. Keep an eye on the calendar page on Disneyland.com for dates and information.

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It’s midnight here in Florida and time to let you know that we will be keeping things lively at Cinderella Castle with Disney’s Up All Night Dance Party. You can dance the morning away from 2 to 5:45 a.m. this morning at Cinderella Castle. Let us know if you’re joining us.

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

One hour. Three classic spinning attractions. Monstrous fun. Prince Charming Regal Carrousel - round and round I went. Mad Tea Party – spintastic. Dumbo, The Flying Elephant – high soaring, spinning excitement! Quite a successful nighttime spin through Fantasyland.

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Our Monstrous Morning Meet-Up began early this morning as a few hundred Disney Parks Blog readers joined us to be among the first guests in Magic Kingdom Park. We kicked things off at the Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe with a special Monstrous donut breakfast bar, a chance to meet “Sulley” and a few other surprises.

After spending time on some attractions in the park, the group enjoyed an early preview screening of Disney•Pixar’s new movie “Monsters University” before it opens in theaters in 3D on June 21. Here’s a look at some of the fun.

Thank you to everyone who attended – it was wonderful meeting so many new friends and readers of the Disney Parks Blog. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for information about our next meet-up opportunity

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The Main Street Electrical Parade is about to make its way through Magic Kingdom Park. What a great way to kick off the special nighttime festivities the park has planned for the Monstrous All-Nighter! This is one of my favorite Disney parades of all time – probably because it reminds me of my first trip to Magic Kingdom Park back in the early 1980s. (And the Pete’s Dragon float is the BEST!).

Be sure to check back later for our coverage of the all-night dance parties, fireworks and more!

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If I’m going to last until 6 a.m., I’ll need some food-powered energy. In honor of my Mike Wazowski-inspired meal, I’ve written a Monstrous Food Haiku. (Get this! The cotton candy tastes like green apple. It. Was. Delicious.)

Mike inspired food
The salad keeps it balanced
Tasty, green goodness

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I just arrived at the Orlando International Airport to start the second leg of my coast-to-coast expedition for the Monstrous Summer All-Nighter. While I had a quick costume change, I kept wearing the Sulley ear hat and Mike Wazowski sunglasses (yes, I got strange looks from a few people and that was okay). Today was a blast! I enjoyed seeing many friends at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort from early morning to late afternoon. There is more excitement planned this evening at the Disneyland Resort, and I can’t wait to get there.

While this isn’t my first trip to California, I can finally shout something I’ve watched people say for years – “I’m going to Disneyland!” I hope to see you in the Parks!

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Here in Tomorrowland at the Walt Disney World Resort, we’re starting our “Monster Mania” DJ Dance Party. It’s happening at the Rockettower Plaza Stage from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. tonight. Tweet us if you’re out there with #Disney24.

We’ve already showed you some of the fun happening over at Disneyland park, so let’s hop across the Esplanade and see what’s happening at Disney California Adventure park! As you can see, Mike and Sulley have been putting in some appearances with our Disneyland Resort guests, gearing up for a Monstrous Summer!

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Look who we just ran into. Mike and Sulley from this summer’s new Disney•Pixar film “Monsters University” are “scaring up” some excitement at our Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It! Street Party at Walt Disney World Resort. Both served as Grand Marshals during a special pre-parade, with a cheer squad, flag corps and a marching band playing the MU Fight Song.

“Eye” can’t think of a better way to kick off my Monstrous Summer than snapping a shot of me with one of the coolest Monsters at Monster University, James P. Sullivan. I’m even decked out in my best MU gear for the occasion.

I’m on the nightshift here on the Disney Parks Blog, and I’ll be helping bring this All-Nighter into 6 a.m. with updates throughout the night from Walt Disney World Resort. Right now, I’m headed out to get in on all the fun Magic Kingdom Park has going on. (I hear there’s a dance party. And by now, you know I love a good dance party.)

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

If you are pulling an all-nighter and staying with us at the Disneyland or Walt Disney World Resorts for 24 hours today, then there’s no doubt you will work up a Monstrous appetite. Here are my top Monstrous picks to keep you going throughout the day and night: the Monstrous Summer cupcake with green icing, the Mike Wazowski-inspired cake pop and, my personal favorites, the Mike and Sulley specialty apples. For those of you attending the party in Florida, you might even find green and blue cotton candy!

Keep an “eye” out in the following locations if you are looking to scare up one of these delectable treats:

• Disneyland park – Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A., and Pooh Corner in Critter Country
• Downtown Disney District – Marceline’s Confectionery
• Disney California Adventure park – Trolley Treats on Buena Vista Street
• Magic Kingdom Park – Confectionery on Main Street, U.S.A., Big Top Souvenirs in Fantasyland, and Prairie Outpost in Frontierland

Speaking of sweet treats, I’m looking forward to seeing my fellow Disney Parks Blog author Steven Miller, who will be joining us here at the Disneyland Resort in just a matter of hours. He’s been celebrating the 24 hour event in Florida and will be traveling coast-to-coast this evening. I’m thinking I better pick up an apple or two for him just in case he didn’t get one earlier. But which one should I pick? You weigh in…Mike or Sulley? Let me know in the comments below and be sure to watch the Disney Parks Blog later this evening to see which one he actually selects.

One of the things on my “Must Do” list when visiting the Magic Kingdom Park is to visit the Orange Bird in Adventureland.

After spending nearly all day at Magic Kingdom Park for the Monstrous Summer “All-Nighter,” I thought a refreshing Citrus Swirl would be a nice change of pace from the several cups of coffee I’ve consumed. I asked my fellow Disney Parks Blog author Erin Catalano to join me at the Sunshine Tree Terrace while wearing our Sulley ear hats and Mike Wazowski sunglasses. Our field trip was a wonderful way to spend a sunny Florida afternoon before departing for the Golden State – California!

What’s your favorite afternoon treat? Share in the comments section.

Monstrous fun is continuing here at Magic Kingdom Park this afternoon with the Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade. What a fun day to be at the park!

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Thousands of Disneyland Resort guests lined up early this morning to begin 24 hours of monstrous fun here at the Disneyland Resort. Check out the video below for the opening moment (complete with fireworks, of course), lots of Mike Wazowski eyes and more!

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If you joined us early this morning, you know we kicked off our first-ever three park all night party with a special moment in front of Magic Kingdom Park. Mike and Sulley, from the newest Disney•Pixar animated feature “Monsters University,” were joined by some of your other favorite Disney characters to start the Monstrous Summer at Disney Parks. Take a look.

Were you there this morning? Leave your favorite highlight in the comments.

Our friends Mike and Sulley (and several of their friends from “Monsters University“) just made their way down Main Street, U.S.A., as a pre-parade to the Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade. Their appearance even included cheerleaders and a monstrous marching band – love it! If you’re in the park today and would like to see them again, they’ll be back at 2:45 p.m.

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

My fellow Disney Parks Blog author Tom Smith told me I should eat something during the Monstrous Summer “All-Nighter.” Taking his advice, I made my way to Gaston’s Tavern in New Fantasyland, where they serve a monstrously delicious meal. I ordered the meaty pork shank and a frosty stein of LeFou’s Brew to fuel up for my coast-to-coast expedition.

I also picked up a “Monsters University“-inspired chocolate cupcake that I read about in my fellow author Pam Brandon’s article (I loved the frosting!).

The best part, however, was meeting the Lambert family from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. They joined us at Magic Kingdom Park today for the all-night party following a week-long vacation at Walt Disney World Resort. I particularly loved the backs of their shirts, as it was a great reminder of how much time we’ll be celebrating at Disney Parks today. I’m going to make every second count!

Have you had the pork shank at Gaston’s Tavern? What’s your favorite treat at Gaston’s Tavern?.

After the Monstrous Summer “All-Nighter” got underway early this morning at the Disneyland Resort, Paul and I hit the street (Main Street, that is) to find Disneyland park guests who were already getting into the spirit of things. Check out some of the photos we got!

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

Each Friday we share an update on new “Limited Time Magic” at Disney Parks, and this week is no exception. Beginning today, May 24, “Celebrate the Magic” will be commemorating the start of a Monstrous Summer at Walt Disney World Resort with a special treat.

The “Celebrate the Magic” nighttime spectacular, which uses amazing projections to transform Cinderella Castle into a kaleidoscope of Disney characters and stories, is introducing a new segment just for the summer season.

You’ll head to the beach with Lilo and Stitch, dive “Under the Sea” with Ariel and Sebastian, and go Goofy for this sunny homage to the fun and freedom of summer days shared with family and friends. And best of all, this special bit of “Limited Time Magic” lasts all summer long.

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

We have a treat for those of you who are following the Monstrous All-Nighter along from home. Here’s where you can download the “Monsters University” Entrance Exam poster we gave away earlier today at our Monstrous Morning Meet-Up. Can you correctly guess where monsters would pop up in Magic Kingdom Park if they stepped through these doors for a scare? Click here for the answers!

Do you know where these doors are? Leave your answers in the comments section.

We’re loving some of the outfits we’ve seen Magic Kingdom Park guests in so far today. Guests have gotten very creative with their theme park attire, appearing in “Monsters University” gear, pajamas and even some self-made “monstrous” creations! Check out the gallery above to see some of our favorites.

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

The Monstrous Summer “All-Nighter” has begun here at the Disneyland Resort! Thousands of people counted down along with Mike and Sulley as fireworks lit up the entrances to both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks. I watched the opening moment next to Disney Parks Blog author and Disneyland Resort Chief Photographer Paul Hiffmeyer, who gave me these great opening-moment shots to show you.

But the monstrous fun began early for some dedicated guests, many of whom lined up as early as 10 p.m. the night before. They had their EYE on the prize – get it?

Keep checking back for more updates from the Disneyland Resort!

Don’t forget to leave us a note in the comments section.

On this “monstrous” day at Disney Parks, I stopped by the Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A., in Magic Kingdom Park to check out the new merchandise for Disney•Pixar’s upcoming film “Monsters University.” The film opens in U.S. theaters on June 21, 2013, and, after attending an early screening, I can say that it’s awesome! Like previous film releases such as “Oz The Great and Powerful” Disney Theme Park Merchandise partnered with the Disney Store to introduce some of the plush and toys they created. There are, however, a handful of items created specifically for Disney Parks.

The Emporium had an entire wall of “Monsters University”-inspired goods. They were mixed with some classic items we’ve had for years like the Mike Wazowski “eye” shirt, the Boo baby plush in a blanket, and the “Monsters, Inc“. figure playset.

I particularly liked the new D-Tech on Demand cases for the iPhone 4/4S and the iPhone 5. I also liked the “MU” hat that looks like it came directly from the film (the worn spot is a nice touch).

While in the Emporium, I had some fun with my favorite new traveling buddy today – the Scare Pig plush, who is the school mascot from “Monsters University” rival, Fear Tech. Look for additional items arriving in June including a mystery pin set and a limited edition opening day pin. I’m particularly excited for the new Vinylmation mystery set designed by Disney artist Ron Cohee coming to Disney Parks on June 14. Go MU!

Have you picked up any Monstrous Merchandise today? Share your favorites in the comments section.

If you’re not able to join us in the parks for our “all-nighter,” we’ve got the next best thing to being here – live video from Magic Kingdom Park in Florida. Along with our live blogging coverage, we have a live video stream showing the fun on Main Street U.S.A., as it happens.

During the 24-hours, we’ll be featuring the live video stream in our live blogging content stream. We’re also making it available on a special Disney Parks Blog page to check anytime during the event.

Are you watching the live video feed? Any favorite moments to share in the comments?.

I’m no stranger to staying up for 24 hours. While in college, I remember pulling a few “all-nighters” to finish writing papers for class. I also attended a few 24-hour science-fiction movie marathons when I lived in Columbus, Ohio (that was crazy but fun!). Today, I have another excuse to stay up all night – the Monstrous Summer “All-Nighter” to kick off a summer of fun at Disney Parks. This is a big bicoastal party, which I will be attending for most of the day at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida. This evening, I’ll finish out the night in Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park in California.

Throughout the day, I’ll be sharing updates about my adventures on the Disney Parks Blog. I’d love to get photographs with friends on both coasts dressed in their best Monstrous Summer attire. I’m also looking forward to enjoying a refreshing Citrus Swirl early this afternoon in Adventureland. Anyone care to join me?

Have you ever visited both coasts in one day like Steven? Share your experience in the comments section.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at our Monstrous Morning Meet-Up at Magic Kingdom Park where we’re officially registering our guests as new “Monsters University” students! They’re also enjoying a special Monstrous Donut & Fruit Bar, photo opportunities and more. Check out the gallery below for an inside look.

Did you attend the meet-up this morning? Share your comments!

We’re off and running at the Walt Disney World Resort. Our first-ever three-park all-night party to kick off a Monstrous Summer at Disney Parks is now officially underway in Florida.

Guests joined the blog team outside of Magic Kingdom Park as early as 4:30 a.m. this morning to be among the first to enter and kick off the Memorial Day Weekend in a big way. We’ve started the day here in Florida but there’s plenty more to see and experience during the next 24 hours.

Keep checking for complete coverage of our “all-nighter” at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort – Erin will be joining us with updates soon. Our reports will include a live stream from Main Street U.S.A., and a few other surprises.

Tagged: DCA, DL, DLR, Gallery, Limited Time Magic, Meet-Up, MK, Star Wars, Video, WDW

Filed: Disney California Adventure Park, Disneyland Park, Disneyland Resort, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort

UPDATE: This event has filled to capacity. Please CLICK HERE to view a list of the accepted event attendees. If you are on the list and do not receive a confirmation email by 5 p.m. EST on Monday, please contact us at WDW.BlogMeetUps@disney.com.

We’re about a week away from our first-ever three park Monstrous Summer 24-hour “all-nighter” at Disney Parks. And to kick things off at Walt Disney World Resort, we’re offering a special experience for Disney Parks Blog readers.

Our Monstrous Morning Meet-Up begins at 4:30 a.m. on May 24, and it will include the opportunity to see an early preview screening of Disney•Pixar’s new movie “Monsters University” before it opens in theatres in 3D on June 21. There will be plenty of fun, including a Monstrous donut bar and – like all Disney Parks Blog meet-ups – a surprise or two added on to what is already planned at Magic Kingdom Park.

Space is limited, so RSVP now by sending us an email with your name, address, and if you’re inviting a guest to WDW.BlogMeetUps@disney.com.

Also, there are a few things you should know:

• All participants who sign up for the event must be 18 years or older, but guests do not need to be 18 or older.
• Limit one guest per registrant.
• We will send an email to individuals whose valid RSVPs are received by us via email before we reach the planned capacity to confirm their attendance for the event.
• If confirmed, it will be necessary for the registrant and guests to check in at the front entrance of Magic Kingdom Park for access to the event. The confirmation will include those details.
• Valid photo I.D. will be required at check-in.
• Meet-up confirmations are non-transferrable and have no cash value.
• Confirmation will be for the accepted registered person plus their number of specified guests.
• If you do not receive an email from us confirming your reservation, then your RSVP was not accepted.
• The event and individual appearances are subject to change or cancellation.

This post will be updated when capacity has been reached. Please note the event is subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Hope to see you there.

Tagged: Meet-Up, MK, WDW

Filed: Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort