Destination America's Disney Week 2014

When I can't make it to Disney, I love to watch Behind the Scenes Disney shows. They offer a rare glimpse into areas of the parks that few ever see. And they really can help with the Disney crazies, those times when you have no idea when you'll make it back to a Disney park, but you really, really want to go. If this is you, Destination America has the perfect cure. This week, they will be airing a full week of prime time Disney programming, including the premiere of the new Walt Disney World: Resort Hotels.

“Walt Disney’s vision for family fun is an American tradition and has brought families together for generations,” said Marc Etkind, general manager for Destination America. “Destination America loves to celebrate iconic American travel locations and we are proud to share DISNEY WEEK with our audience.” Here's the lineup, starting Monday, March 3, 2014:

Monday 8PM Eastern - Walt Disney World Resort Hotels - An exclusive tour of the Disney Resort Hotels, each with its own special theme, from the early days of their first hotels, to the new Princess Rooms at the Port Orleans Resort. Followed by Undiscovered Disney Parks  at 9PM.

Tuesday 6PM Eastern -  Undiscovered Disney Parks - A look at the many surprising things to do at Disney parks, including learning to surf, walking in Walt's footsteps, driving a race car, and enjoying a private safari. Followed by an encore of Walt Disney World Resort Hotels at 7PM.

Tuesday 8PM Eastern - Disney Cruise Line: Reimagined Magic - An overview of the renovations to Disney's flagship, the Magic, including a new water slide for kids and adults to enjoy.

Tuesday 9PM Eastern - Ultimate Walt Disney World - An inside look at the top thrill rides that bring adrenaline junkies from around the world to Disney, including the newly reopened Test Track.

Wednesday 6PM Eastern - Disneyland Resort: Behind the Scenes - What better way to learn about Disney parks than to find secrets and myths about the place where it all began; Disneyland? Also included is a look at the future of Disneyland and it's expansion into California Adventure and Cars Land. Followed by Disney Cruise Line: Reimagined Magic at 7PM.

Wednesday 8PM Eastern - Walt Disney World: Behind the Scenes - A fascinating look at what makes Disney World work and what allowed them to become the most successful theme park in Florida.

Wednesday 9PM Eastern - Disney Cruise Line: Behind the Magic - A glimpse into all four of Disney's cruise ships: the Fantasy, Dream, Wonder, and Magic, and the technology that allows them to be truly magical.

Thursday 6PM Eastern - Disney Cruise Line: Behind the Magic, followed at by Walt Disney World Resort: Behind the Scenes at 7PM. Next up is Disneyland Resort: Behind the Scenes at 8PM and Walt Disney World Resort Hotels at 9PM.

Friday 6PM Eastern - Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Friday 7PM Eastern - Disney's Animal Kingdom - A behind the scenes look at the challenges of combining the thrill rides of a theme park with live animals in their own environment. Followed by Undiscovered Disney Parks at 8PM and Disney Cruise Line: Reimagined Magic at 9PM.

I can't wait to watch these shows and have already set my DVR so that I can watch them more than once! Will you be watching?

Destination America's Disney Week

When I can't make it to Disney, I love to watch Behind the Scenes Disney shows. They offer a rare glimpse into areas of the parks that few ever see. And they really can help with the Disney crazies, those times when you have no idea when you'll make it back to a Disney park, but you really, really want to go. If this is you, Destination America has the perfect cure. Next week, they will be airing a full week of prime time Disney programming, including the premiere of the new Disney Cruise Line: Behind the Magic.

“As a network that treasures American travel destinations, Destination America wouldn’t be complete without DISNEY WEEK and the story of Walt Disney’s theme parks and cruises,” said Marc Etkind, SVP of Content Strategy for Destination America. “From iconic thrill rides that continue to capture the heart of each new generation to a globally recognized mouse-eared logo, Disney reflects an American tale of innovation and imagination that we are proud to present to our viewers.”

Here's the lineup, starting Monday, April 29, 2013:

Monday 8PM Eastern - Walt Disney World: Behind the Scenes - A fascinating look at what makes Disney World work and what allowed them to become the most successful theme park in Florida.

Monday 9PM Eastern - Disney Cruise Line: Behind the Magic - A glimpse into all four of Disney's cruise ships: the Fantasy, Dream, Wonder, and Magic, and the technology that allows them to be truly magical.

Tuesday 8PM Eastern - Disneyland Resort: Behind the Scenes - What better way to learn about Disney parks than to find secrets and myths about the place where it all began; Disneyland? Also included is a look at the future of Disneyland and it's expansion into California Adventure and Cars Land.

Wednesday 8PM Eastern - Ultimate Walt Disney World - An inside look at the top thrill rides that bring adrenaline junkies from around the world to Disney, including the newly reopened Test Track.

Thursday 8PM Eastern - Undiscovered Disney Parks - A look at the many surprising things to do at Disney parks, including learning to surf, walking in Walt's footsteps, driving a race car, and enjoying a private safari.

Friday 8PM Eastern - Disney Cruise Line: Behind the Magic - A repeat of this new behind the scenes look at Disney's cruise ships.

I can't wait to watch these shows and have already set my DVR so that I can watch them more than once! Will you be watching?

World of Color - ONE

Disney

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of The Walt Disney Company. To celebrate, a lot of new merchandise, foods, and experiences are coming to the Disney Parks. One such experience, "World of Color - ONE", will be making its debut on January 27. Here's a sneak peek of this new nighttime spectacular coming to Disney's California Adventure.

Here's the description of the show from Disney:

“World of Color – ONE” celebrates how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. You’ll discover how it only takes one action to make an impact on the people in our lives and the world around us, just as one man – Walt Disney – started the wave that has continued to grow and inspire people around the globe for 100 years.

The show will feature music and characters that are "wavemakers" from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Avengers, and Star Wars. This the first time characters from all four will appear in one show in Disneyland. The show is set to an all-new score and features a song called "Start a Wave." Mist screens and over 1200 fountains will bring the show to life and MagicBand+ effects will add to the magic and color.

Disney hopes the finale will leave guests feeling uplifted and as they walk away to make their own ripples, that they will remember how, when we come together, many drops can become an ocean.

Disneyland Handcrafted

All images: Disney

Have you ever wondered about all that went into the building of Disneyland? Most fans have likely watched the special Walt had made back in 1955 about the park, but that is only the tip of the iceberg. It turns out, they had filmed a lot of the work that went into creating the Happiest Place on Earth. And now, Leslie Iwerks (who has quite the family history with Disney) has brought it all together for a new special: Disneyland Handcrafted. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Disneyland Handcrafted.

Here's the official synopsis from Disney: 

The magic of Walt Disney’s dream unfolds when Disneyland Handcrafted, a feature documentary from Leslie Iwerks, takes viewers on an unforgettable journey through the exhilarating year that gave rise to The Happiest Place on Earth. 

Disneyland Handcrafted reveals the extraordinary artistry and grit it took hundreds of craftspeople to bring Walt Disney’s impossible dream project of Disneyland to fruition – from groundbreaking to Opening Day on July 17, 1955.

The documentary captures both the legacy and nostalgia of the year leading up to the creation of the Disneyland Resort. Through newly unearthed materials from the Walt Disney Archives, Iwerks and her team uncovered long-forgotten 16mm film reels and audio recordings. The result is an unpolished, fly-on-the-wall perspective that captures what was truly happening behind the scenes, told through the firsthand accounts of the artists, craftsmen, and Imagineers who were there.

Since opening over 70 years ago, Disneyland laid the groundwork for a massive global industry that is currently in the biggest era of growth, making this film a truly special treat for Disney fans. 

Disneyland Handcrafted arrives on‬ DisneyPlus and YouTube on January 22nd.

We Call It Imagineering - Episode 1

Disney

Disney has created a new behind-the-scenes series that was inspired by the TV specials Walt Disney made to introduce Disneyland. This new series, which is available exclusively on YouTube, gives fans a chance to see the imagineering that goes into creating the magic at Disney Parks and the Disney Cruise Line. The first episode is called "Audio-Animatronics" and provides a sneak peek at the characters that will soon be a part of Tiana's Bayou Adventure.

This series is fascinating. Walt Disney once said, "There’s really no secret about our approach. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things, because we’re curious. And curiosity keeps leading us down new paths." That doesn't make it any less amazing. Keep an eye out for new episodes coming to Walt Disney Imagineering's YouTube channel soon.

Destinations in Florida Travel Agency - The Official Disney Vacation Planner of Disney at Heart

Have you ever used a Disney Vacation Planner to plan your Disney vacation? I must admit, I haven't, but I'm seriously considering contacting one the next time I go. And when I do, I'll contact Siera at Destinations in Florida, the official vacation planner of Disney At Heart. Whether you plan to go to a Disney Park, Legoland, Universal Studios or Seaworld, Siera can help you plan the perfect vacation. So, whether you know exactly what you want, but would like someone else to handle booking your trip or you need help figuring out exactly what you should include, be sure to contact Siera and get the best price on your Walt Disney World Vacation Package... Guaranteed!

An authorized Disney Vacation Planner can help you do much more than just book your vacation. They can help you to decide whether to stay on-site or off, how many days would be best for your family, should you purchase the Dining Plan, and much more. In addition, they can help you to figure out a budget and make the reservations for you. They will also watch for new deals that may pop up and can adjust your reservation to save you money. In my opinion, that may be the best part. Going to Disney can be expensive and every penny saved is important.

And to top it all off, Siera can give you advice on how to make your vacation even better. Do you know which days are the best days to go to each park? How about which restaurant is best when traveling with a two year old and which is best for a romantic dinner? Siera can answer these questions and more. Also included in your Disney vacation are the following free items: a Mickey Mouse autographed pictures for your kids, Disney Guide Maps, and an Orlando Magicard.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, your PremEAR Disney World and Orlando Vacation Planners. She is an authorized Disney vacation planner and Disney world, Disney Cruise, Disneyland, Disney Hawaii, and Adventures by Disney Specialist. She is also a Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure Specialist. Siera has traveled to these destinations numerous times and would love you help you plan your next vacation.

Walt Disney Presents at Hollywood Studios

Courtesy of Disney

With all of the changes happening at Hollywood Studios, it's still a surprise when yet another is announced. It seems that One Man's Dream is going to be reimagined as Walt Disney Presents. The attraction, which currently showcases historic items from Disney history, will add previews for new attractions coming to the park in the next two years.

Starting in September, guests can view concept art, ride vehicle macquettes, and models of Toy Story Land. Part of the model for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will also be on display, as well as concept art for Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway. Character Meet and Greets, such as Star-Lord and Baby Groot, will continue, as will the sneak previews for upcoming Disney films.

All of these changes mean it's going to be a very different park once they are finished. I'm excited to see how it turns out.

Walt Disney Animation Shorts Collection

Disney

Have you seen the preview for the Walt Disney Animation Short Films Collection? It's a collection of 12 of Disney's best short films, from John Henry to the never before released Frozen Fever. The shorts include three Oscar nominees and two winners.

Here's a list of the titles you can expect to see:

• Frozen Fever
• Feast
• Get a Horse
• Paperman
• Tangled Ever After
• The Ballad of Nessie
• Prep and Landing - Operation: Secret Santa
• Tick Tock Tale
• How to Hook Up Your Home Theater
• The Little Match Girl
• Lorenzo
• John Henry

The Walt Disney Animation Short Films Collection will be available on DVD and Blu-Ray on August 18, 2015.

There's A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow Coming To The Carousel Of Progress

All images: Disney

The Carousel of Progress is one of the classic shows at Disney World. The attraction made its debut at the 1964-65 New York World's Fair. It was a passion project of Walt Disney's that included a rotating theater and a song written by the Sherman brothers. The show included four scenes: the early 1900s, the 1920s, 1940s, and a futuristic finale. 

It arrived in the Magic Kingdom in 1975, where it included a different song, "The Best Time Of Your Life". Over the years, the scenes have been updated and altered, especially the final scene which is a vision of the future. The last major update was in 1994, when the original song was restored, so Imagineers have decided it's time for a major refresh. But don't worry: John, Sarah, and the rest of the family won't be going anywhere, just experiencing a new timeline.

The show will close on July 6th and reopen sometime in 2027. An entirely new opening scene will be added, based on the 1964 TV special "Disneyland Goes to the World's Fair". It will include an Audio-Animatronic of Walt Disney himself. Imagineers have been recreating the room, filling it with props like a prototype Tiki Room bird and a doll from it's a small world.

Imagineers also plan to change the other scenes to reflect newer decades that guests may remember. 

• Act 1 1969 - The family is gathered around the TV to watch the moon landing.
• Act 2 1985 - It's Halloween and Sarah gets the chance to show off the new gadgets that make life easier while John hands out candy. Uncle Orville is still in the bathroom with "no privacy around here!"
• Act 3 1999 - The family is preparing for the new millennium on New Year's Eve and exploring that exciting new thing called the internet. Grandpa is already asleep and Grandma is watching wrestling. 
• Act 4 The Future - As always, this scene explores what the future may look like, with a robotic assistant and inspiration from the original sketches for the show.

It's going to be a long wait to experience this new version of the Carousel of Progress, but it sounds quite exciting. What new scene are you looking forward to most?

Rogue One Merchandise

Photos courtesy of Disney

Disney has created a huge collection of merchandise to celebrate the upcoming film, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The film revolves around a rogue band of resistance fighters who seek to steal the Death Star plans and bring hope to the galaxy. It arrives in theaters on December 16, but we won't have to wait as long for the merchandise, which will begin arriving at Disney Parks on September 30.

There's a wide variety of shirts for women, several with more style than the usual tees.

There's also clothing from Her Universe, including a dress covered with images of the Death Star and some leggings fit for a Rebel.

Graphic goodies include images of the Death Star and one that resembles a pilots uniform.

A set of limited release Vinylmation Shoretroopers begin a large selection of collectibles. There will also be a great variety of open edition pins and a 14 pin mystery collection, with one pin revealed and one a mystery. If you like making droids in the Droid Factory, be sure to look for a set of four Astromech figures inspired by the film.

At Walt Disney World, guests can find two limited release Magic Bands. 15 different designs for personalized phone cases for select iPhone and Samsung devices will be available at D-Tech on Demand stations around Disneyland and Disney World.

Select items from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story will be available at the following locations:

Disneyland

• Emporium
• The Star Trader
• Star Wars Launch Bay

California Adventure 

• Elias & Company
• Gone Hollywood

Downtown Disney

• World of Disney
• D-Street

Disney World

Magic Kingdom

• Emporium
• Merchant of Venus

EPCOT

• Mouse Gear

Hollywood Studios

• Tatooine Traders
•  Star Wars Launch Bay
• Legends of Hollywood
• Mickey's of Hollywood

Animal Kingdom

• Island Mercantile

Disney Springs

• World of Disney
• Once Upon a Toy
• Star Wars Galactic Outpost

Some items will also be available on the Shop Disney Parks app.

A Special Look At Maleficent: Mistress of Evil

Disney

Maleficent arrives in theaters in a month, so we're now being treated to a special look at the film. This clip reveals more of Queen Ingrith's motives in allowing Prince Phillip to marry Aurora.

If you'd like to see more before Maleficent: Mistress of Evil arrives in theaters on October 18, a sneak peek is coming to Disney Parks. Starting on Sepember 27, guests can catch the clip at Walt Disney Presents in Hollywood Studios and Sunset Showcase Theater in the evenings at Disneyland. Guests aboard Disney Cruise Line and at Walt Disney Studios Park in Disneyland Paris will also be treated to a preview. 

Pirates of the Caribbean

Disney

Earlier this month, Disneyland marked the 50th anniversary of Pirates of the Caribbean. Pirates has always been one of my favorite rides. It's rather nostalgic for me, and I never tire of riding it. (Which is a good thing, because it's one of Bean's favorite rides, too.) In honor of the anniversary, the Disney Parks Blog has released a video of Walt Disney telling the tale of the Pirates of the Caribbean. It was the last ride Walt oversaw personally, although he died before it could be completed.

D23 Live Action Movie Update

All images: Disney

I wish I could have gone to the D23 Expo this year; there was a lot of amazing news shared these past 3 days. However, I'd like to share what I think will be the most fun: the live action movies. Here's a little preview of what you can expect in the next few years.

First up was Thor: The Dark World. I love Marvel movies in general, and I can't wait to see this one. The second film in Phase Two of the Avengers Initiative, this film will see the return of all of the great actors that made the first film such a success. Thor returns to Earth to see Jane Foster and bring her to Asgard. Together, Thor and his companions must risk everything to face an enemy even Odin and the Asgardians cannot defeat. Thor: The Dark World arrives in theaters November 8th.

Next up was Into the Woods. I saw Into the Woods on stage when I was about 13. It wasn't entirely appropriate, but a lot of the inuendo was over my head at the time. I must say I'm a little concerned that Disney is making this film. After all, this particular Sondheim musical is a very dark take on classic fairy tales. By the second act, you realize that no one has had a happily ever after, and all of the characters are completely miserable. All that aside, this film is an example of some really amazing casting. Actors include Anna Kendrick as Cinderella, Chris Pine as Cinderella's Prince, Christine Baransky as Cinderella's Stepmother, Johnny Depp as the Wolf, and Meryl Streep as the Witch who is trying to teach them all a lesson. It should be fun! Into the Woods arrives in theaters in December 2014.

Directed by the legendary Kenneth Branagh, Disney's next adventure is the live action Cinderella. This version is expected to follow the traditional story, so it will be up to the casting to set this film apart. The cast includes: Helena Bonham Carter as the Fairy Godmother, Cate Blanchett as Lady Tremaine (Cinderella's wicked stepmother), and Stellan Skarsgard as the Grand Duke (an adviser to the king). Lily James (Lady Rose on Downton Abbey) and Richard Madden (Robb Stark on Game of Thrones) round out the cast as Cinderella and her Prince Charming.  Disney's Cinderella arrives in theaters in March 2015.

We've now arrived at what may be the most intriguing of these live action films: Maleficent. Following the story of Maleficent, rather than Aurora, this is an interesting spin on the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty. Starring Angelina Jolie in the title role, Maleficent will show us what events led up to her becoming evil and ultimately caused her to curse a tiny baby, the Princess Aurora. Maleficent arrives in theaters on July 2, 2014.

Next up was Muppets: Most Wanted. As with all Muppet movies, this one looks to be a wild ride. Following that great Muppet tradition, this film will star all your favorite Muppets alongside great guest stars like Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell, and Tina Fey. I'm not sure what this one will be about, other than pure Muppet madness, but I'm sure it will be a blast to watch! Muppets Most Wanted arrives in theaters in Spring 2014.

For more Marvel fun, we have Captain America: The Winter Soldier. In this film, Cap will once again be battling against injustice, cynicism, and intolerance in defense of the American dream. Teaming up once again with Black Widow, he will have to fight a friend from his past in order to save the future. Captain America: The Winter Soldier arrives in theaters April 4, 2014.

Next up is Saving Mr. Banks. The film stars Tom Hanks as Walt Disney and Emma Thompson as PL Travers, the author of Mary Poppins. It is the story of how Walt promised his daughters that he would turn their favorite book into a movie, without knowing how hard PL Travers would fight to prevent it. In two short weeks in 1961, Walt does his best to change her mind, with the help of the Sherman brothers and their amazing songs. However, it's not until he thinks back on his own childhood that he begins to understand the ghosts that haunt her and how they can work together to create something amazing. Saving Mr. Banks arrives in theaters December 20, 2013.

Other project, which I will admit I know very little about, include Tomorrowland, a science fiction film with an unknown story, and Bears, a Disney Nature film. Tomorrowland stars Britt Robertson (Angie on Under the Dome) as the film's heroine, George Clooney as an inventor, and Hugh Laurie as the villain. Tomorrowland arrives in theaters on December 12, 2014. Bears, a film about the lives of a group of Alaskan bears, arrives in theaters on April 18, 2014. I look forward to seeing these films and will be sure to pass along additional information as I find it.

Once Upon A Studio

Disney

A new animated short is coming to ABC next month as part of the Disney100 celebration. With 543 characters from over 85 Disney films, Once Upon A Studio should be an absolute delight for Disney fans.

Here's the official synopsis from Disney: 

An all-star ensemble of beloved characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios come together in “Once Upon a Studio” for a joyful, entertaining and emotional reunion as they assemble for a spectacular group photo to mark Disney's 100th anniversary. Featuring 543 Disney characters from more than 85 feature-length and short films, “Once Upon a Studio” welcomes heroes and villains, princes and princesses, sidekicks and sorcerers—in all-new hand-drawn and CG animation—to celebrate 10 decades of storytelling, artistry and technological achievements.

Once Upon A Studio makes its debut on ABC on October 15th.

Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary Commercial

Disney

Can you believe Walt Disney World is celebrating 50 years of magic this fall? Starting October 1, guests can expect to find surprises around every corner as part of the 18-month long celebration. 

EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival Gift Cards

Disney

One of the best things about the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival is trying all of the delightful, springtime treats. And what easier way to pay for it all than with a special Festival Gift Card? This year, the lovely, little, wrist band cards feature one of three flowers. And each design has a lovely fresh, spring scent. Cards can be activated for as little as $15 and are available at merchandise locations throughout the park. The cards are reloadable, never expire, and can be used to purchase most all things Disney at locations nationwide. The 25th Annual EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival runs from February 28 through May 28, 2018.

Spring is alive! The 25th Annual Epcot Flower & Garden Festival - now thru May 28th, only at Walt Disney World Resort. #FreshEpcot #WaltDisneyWorld pic.twitter.com/1teYpmIX4a

— Walt Disney World (@WaltDisneyWorld) February 28, 2018

New Pressed Pennies In Disney World

Pennies

I've loved collecting pressed pennies since I was a little kid. They're the perfect souvenir: small and portable, inexpensive, and easy to store or display once you get back home. I have pennies from places I've visited all over the country, but the vast majority have come from Disney Parks. 

As part of the 50th Anniversary Celebration at Disney World, 53 new designs have popped up throughout the parks. While I prefer the old hand-crank machines where I can use my own carefully saved pre-1982 copper pennies, many of the new automated machines contain new, uncirculated pennies. Either way, they're still a fun collectible. 

Designs include 50 single character designs, one Mickey and Minnie celebration design, and two resort coins. Here's a list of the characters you can find:

• Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Donald, Daisy, Chip, and Dale
• Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio, Cheshire Cat, Lady, Tramp, Dumbo, Timothy Mouse, Mad Hatter, Tinker Bell
• Simba, Timon, Pumba
• Pua, Hei-Hei, Miguel, Dante, Bruni, Olaf, Joe Gardner
• Sebastian, Flounder, Lumiere, Cogsworth, Genie, Abu, Stitch
• Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Bambi, Thumper, Gus-Gus, Jacques
• Woody, Bo Peep, Nemo, Dory, Frozone, Edna Mode
• Figment, Orange Bird, 
• BB-8, R2-D2

If you'd like to collect these new designs on your next visit to the parks, Disney has actually made finding the machines easier. Just open the My Disney Experience app and search for "Coin Press Machines". Select "Find On Map" to see machine locations throught the Walt Disney World Resort. 

Let the Memories Begin

Disney

Disney has rolled out a new experience for fans of Walt Disney World. It's called the Let the Memories Begin Tour. This is a chance for everyone to experience the magic of Disney World without going to Florida.

Disney

By visiting one of the tour locations, guests can take virtual in-park photos that they can share. Photos are provided by Snapfish. Cast members will spread a little pixie dust at each stop, making this tour a magical experience. The tour kicks off in Chicago this weekend and travels around the country, ending in Puerto Rico in September. Here's a list of tour dates and cities.

5/30 - 5/31 Chicago, IL
6/5 - 6/6 Boston, MA
6/10 - 6/12 New York, NY
6/18 - 6/19 Washington, DC
6/24 - 6/25 Atlanta, GA
7/8 - 7/9 Dallas, TX
7/12 - 7/13 Houston, TX
7/19 - 7/20 Phoenix, AZ
7/26 - 7/27 Denver, CO
7/30 - 7/31 Salt Lake City, UT
8/5 - 8/6 San Francisco, CA
8/16 - 8/17 Portland, OR
8/20 - 8/21 Seattle, WA
8/26 - 8/27 Calgary, Canada
9/2 - 9/3 Toronto, Canada
9/23 - 9/24 Puerto Rico

A recent nationwide survey of U.S. and Canadian families found that vacation memories hold a special place in family history. Nine out of 10 parents said they planned vacations with the hope that they would result in a lasting family memory. In 2011, Disney Parks launched “Let the Memories Begin,” a year-long celebration of the family vacation memories created in Disney theme parks every day. You can view my previous post about this celebration here.

Disney 100

Disney

Can you believe this year marks the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company?

I wonder if Walt and Roy Disney had any idea how many lives would be touched by the magic they created.

Welcome To Casa Madrigal

All images: Disney

The first trailer for Disney's Encanto has arrived and it looks truly magical. 

Here's the official synopsis from Disney:

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto,” is the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one, Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope.

The all-new original film features the voice of Stephanie Beatriz as Mirabel, an ordinary 15-year-old who’s struggling to find her place in her family. “Mirabel is a really funny, loving character who also deeply yearns for something more,” says Beatriz. “She’s also not afraid to stand up for what she knows is right—something I love and relate to very much.

Encanto arrives in theaters this November.