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Add Some Fa La La to Your Holidays with a Sleigh Ride at Walt Disney World Resort

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It may still be on the warm side here in Central Florida, but it’s never too early to be thinking about the holidays! So when you make your seasonal to-do list, check it twice. And make sure a horse-drawn holiday sleigh ride at Disney’s Fort Wilderness & Campground is on it.

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The sleighs—festively festooned with lights, garland and bows, and brimming with cheerful holiday music—take you on a 25-minute trek that glides you through the woodsy landscape and past the campsites of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground all decked out in their holiday finery. Well, you don’t exactly “glide,” as Jay Sanderson, Assistant Animal Operations Manager, Tri-Circle-D Ranch, explains. But that doesn’t make it any less magical.

“Our sleighs are different from our horse-drawn carriages. They are specifically designed to cut through the thick layers of ice and snow that hit Central Florida in December. Okay, scratch the ice and snow part. But they are indeed sleighs that are retrofitted with wheels for our guests’ and horses’ comfort and convenience.”

Brought to you by the same folks who provide the horse-drawn carriage rides the rest of the year, these memorable outings are perfect for a snuggle-up-close romantic rendezvous or an adventure for the whole family. Each sleigh fits four adults or two adults and three children. Larger parties can book more than one sleigh. This fun, distinctive experience replaces carriage rides at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground for the month of December.

According to Jay, it’s not at all unusual to hear, “Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh … Hey! Jingle bells! Jingle bells!” coming from the sleighs as they wind their way through Mother Nature’s own holiday green. These rides have become a popular annual tradition for couples and families alike.

And you’ll be presented with a special limited-edition pin created specifically for this event at the conclusion of your ride. Then you can stroll through the barn to check out where the horses live and get up close and personal with these gentle giants that can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. Discover what they eat, how they travel from place to place throughout Walt Disney World Resort and other fun facts. Just keep in mind that the sleighs do go out in a light rain, but your ride may be canceled during inclement weather.

So why not make it a season of joy and memories with a horse-drawn holiday sleigh ride? These magical encounters tend to sell out quickly, so an early reservation is highly recommended.
Holiday sleigh rides run from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and are open to all (in other words, you don’t have to be a registered guest of a Disney Resort hotel), with no minimum age requirement. Call 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529) to book today.

New Frozen Ever After, Royal Summerhus Details & Renderings Released

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New details were released at the D23 Expo on the Frozen Ever After attraction and neighboring Royal Summerhus that are currently being constructed at Epcot.

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The Frozen Ever After attraction will transport guests to Arendelle just in time for the “Winter in Summer” celebration. According to Portfolio Creative Executive Kathy Mangum, the attraction’s project team is currently partnering with many of the talented individuals at Walt Disney Animation who helped bring the original “Frozen” film to life, as well as award-winning composers Bobby and Kristen-Anderson Lopez.

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“We’re also expanding the Norway pavilion with the addition of the Royal Summerhus – a charming cabin where guests will be able to meet Anna and Elsa,” Kathy said. “This cabin is based on an actual historic log cabin in Norway. In fact, in order to make sure we get the character and detailing right, we just sent our project team to Norway on a research trip to study the country and its cultural arts and crafts in person, just as the film team did.

“We’re confident that this attraction will bring more guests to the Norway pavilion and increase their interest and knowledge of Scandinavian culture, just as the World Showcase was intended to do.”

Disney Parks Podcast Show #224 – Disney News for the Week of 8-10-15 & Infotainment: What We Want to Hear Announced at D23 Expo 2015

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dpp-224We have a GREAT show for you this week as Tony and John discuss the Disney news for the week of 8-10-15 & Infotainment: What we want to hear announced at D23 Expo 2015!

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Applications Open for the 2016 Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort with Steve Harvey

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LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – August 5, 2015 – High school students nationwide can now apply at DisneyDreamersAcademy.com to be among 100 selected to participate in the 2016 Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE, the innovative, outside-the- classroom, educational mentoring program at Walt Disney World Resort.

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Entering the search for its ninth class of Dreamers, Disney Dreamers Academy continues to hold true to its mission to inspire and fuel the dreams of teens, help them discover a world of possibilities and help them prepare for the future. Each year, students participate in hands-on, full-immersion workshops related to a variety of career paths, ranging from animation to zoology. Each participant learns important skills such as communication techniques, leadership values and networking strategies.

It all takes place in the very magical and creative setting of Walt Disney World Resort. Dreamers are taken both on stage and behind the scenes, where Disney theme parks become vibrant ‘classrooms,’ leading to career discoveries, the pursuit of dreams and fun memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Disney Dreamers are exposed to motivational speakers and celebrities who share their stories and provide insight on how to achieve success and DREAM BIG. Dreamers have the opportunity to cultivate relationships with other students from across the nation while they gain first-hand knowledge from Disney experts and world-renowned entrepreneurs and executives.

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“We’re excited to welcome back Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE for the ninth year,” said Tracey D. Powell, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts vice president of deluxe resorts and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “This program stands

out for its ability to motivate and inspire teens to think big and achieve their dreams. By applying for Disney Dreamers Academy, high school students from across the country are taking a step toward an experience that can change their lives.”

Applicants must answer essay questions about their personal stories and their dreams for the future. Students are selected based on a combination of attributes, including a strong character, positive attitude and determination to achieve their dreams.

Select Disney Dreamers along with a parent or guardian, will receive an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, where they will participate in life-changing sessions as they are surrounded by the creativity and innovation represented in Disney theme parks around the world. Disney Dreamers Academy will take place March 3-6, 2016.

Steve Harvey, syndicated radio and television personality, along with ESSENCE and Walt Disney World Resort will host the selected Dreamers during their four-day power packed career and educational exploration. “One of my personal commitments is to always give back and particularly to youth,” said Harvey. “We’ve seen 800 students come through the program, and I’m excited to find the next 100. I encourage all high school students to take the time to apply for Disney Dreamers Academy because I truly believe that a young person’s dream is more important than anything.”

ESSENCE Communications President Michelle Ebanks added, “Each year, ESSENCE is honored to seek out the next generation of big dreamers and welcome them to Walt Disney World Resort for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is our privilege to take part in such an empowering youth platform that enables us to impact the leaders of tomorrow.”

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Applications are open to U.S. high school students, ages 13 to 19, until Oct. 30, 2015. A distinguished panel of leaders will judge the applications in November and winners will be announced in December 2015.

For more information regarding applications, visit: DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. Follow the Dreamers on Facebook.com/DisneyDreamersAcademy or on Twitter.com/DreamersAcademy.

Shopper’s Guide to the Disney Dream Store at D23 EXPO 2015

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D23 EXPO 2015 at the Anaheim Convention Center is just days away! If you’ve been reading the Disney Parks Blog, then you already have details on some of the D23 EXPO logo merchandise, collectibles, artist signings and more. Here’s a look at some of the merchandise you’ll find as well as some tips on what you need to know before you go shopping in the Disney Dream Store (located in Hall A).

I consider these first items quite the “ticket.” That’s because they have actually been inspired by Disneyland park ticket patterns of year’s past. You’ll find the elements of the art on a Walt’s Kingdom tee, mug, toothpick holders, a car magnet pack, button/lanyard set, and even on our HARVEYS bags and wallets. D-Tech fans will delight in the new phone cases available this year themed to D23 EXPO 2015 and the 60th Anniversary of the Mickey Mouse Club—look for similar art to appear on tees as well. Tip: D-Tech cases will be available in iPhone 6, iPhone 6plus and Samsung Galaxy S5.

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Is your head spinning? You’ll be in for one wild ride when you pick up the much anticipated Mr. Toad limited edition 10” plush. This is the second in the series of four plush that is being released for the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Of course, you can quench your thirst for this year’s D23 EXPO merchandise with the Everyone’s A Character stainless steel 22 oz. water bottle. You’ll look cool and stay hydrated throughout the weekend’s festivities.

If it’s a statement you’re looking to make this year, the D23 EXPO Castle Foam Hat will certainly do the trick! Tip: Don’t worry, there’s actually a chin strap that will help hold it in place. Or if you’re feeling “Goofy,” like we were, add some character to special D23 EXPO moments with the Photo Prop Set. Be sure to share your photos across all social channels using #D23EXPO.

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I know you’re curious to find out about D23 EXPO vinylmation and pins, so I won’t make you wait any longer. There will be several new Vinylmation debuting themed to Aristocats, Fantasia, Pinocchio and more. As for pins, you will find limited edition and limited release pins, a boxed set, jumbo pin and mystery set. Here are a couple of pins that caught my attention.

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A few additional reminders before you go!

  • If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to bring the magic of merchandise to life, join us August 14 at 1:30 p.m. in Stage 28, as we take you from concept to reality with behind-the-scenes storytelling about classic Disney souvenirs.
  • On August 15, look for a very special release taking place only at the Disney Dream Store. What is it? They have been ‘forcing’ me to tell you, but I can’t, I can simply state, it’s out of this world.
  • New this year is StorePass which will be available for select D23 EXPO shopping locations. Find out more details here.

What are you the most excited for?

New ‘Disney Vacation’ Magazine Launches on Flipboard

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If you’re a reader who loves daily stories and updates on the Disney Parks Blog, then you’ll want to subscribe to the newly launched “Disney Vacations” magazine on Flipboard.

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The latest edition of the “Disney Vacations” magazine features an amazing robot that creates art in the sand at the Walt Disney World Resort, an update on reservations for Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine and much more. Each day, the “Disney Vacations” magazine will feature the latest news from Disneyland, the Walt Disney World Resort and other Disney destinations.

Delicious Details for Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, Opening This Fall

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With an aviation theme (Jock was Indy’s frequent pilot in the “Indiana Jones” films) and a primo waterfront location, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar will feature food and drinks inspired by Jock’s globe-trotting to all continents – everything from a Hovito Mojito to Dr. Elsa’s She-Deviled Eggs. Details follow.

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Guests will get a kick out of the salvaged equipment, spare airplane parts and mementos from Jock’s travels that decorate the 150-seat lounge located between Paradiso 37 and The BOATHOUSE restaurant. Outdoors, his old steamboat (now in dry dock) is a fun place for watching the sunset.

At the core of Walt Disney Imagineering is great storytelling: as the tale goes, Jock made a home at this waterfront property in the 1940s after discovering this charming little town while flying Indiana Jones over the Sunshine State in search of the elusive Fountain of Youth in 1938. As a member of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers, Jock often welcomed his globetrotting friends to his hangar for a drink and fun times.

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Now Jock and Indy may be gone, but his legendary adventures live on at this exotic watering hole. And that’s what gives the place its charm – and a creative menu of adventurous tastes.
Along with beer and wine, start with clever cocktails such as Reggie’s Revenge and The Fountain of Youth featuring Florida vodkas; Hovito Mojito and The Bitter Barkeep with Peruvian Pisco; Anything Goes with an Asian spirit that packs a little heat; The Aviator’s Flight and The Scottish Professor, and that Cool-headed Monkey with African spirits.

Each of the small plates has a delicious twist, and they’re great for sharing. Dr. Elsa’s She-Deviled Eggs are brined in beet juice with lump crab filling. “Good” Dates feature goat cheese-stuffed dates with Marcona almonds and pickled veggies. Snack of Ra gives a taste of Africa with salads and dips served with injera (bread) and naan crisps. Tanis Tacos are filled with falafel, shredded lettuce and cucumber-tomato salad. The pretzels come with house-made mustard and beer-cheese fondue.

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A little more substantial are the Rolling Boulder Sliders with three spice meatballs on mini-buns with yogurt sauce. Or Brody Brats, grilled bratwurst with mustard and pickled cabbage. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar’s take on chicken wings features spicy Asian wings (called “Lao Che’s Revenge”). And “Squid! Why’d It Have to Be Squid” is fried calamari flatbread with spicy harissa.

Get ready for some very fun Disney moments at this new location coming to Downtown Disney!

Save Time and Frustration At D23 Expo 2015 With StagePass

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Back by popular demand, a limited number of StagePass tickets are available, at no additional charge, to guarantee seating at select sessions in Stage 23 and Stage 28.

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Ticket Distribution Hours:
Please note StagePass is not available for sessions starting prior to 11:00 a.m. (To attend sessions that begin before 11:00 a.m., please proceed directly to Stage 23 or Stage 28).

For sessions starting from 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., StagePass is available starting at 9:00 a.m. (until ticket inventory is depleted).

For sessions starting at 3:00 p.m. or later, StagePass is available starting at 12:30 p.m. (until ticket inventory is depleted).

How It Works:

  1. Visit our StagePass ticket distribution area, located in Hall A on the show floor, during normal operating show floor hours.
  2. Choose which show you wish to attend.
  3. Present your D23 EXPO ticket to receive a StagePass ticket for the show you’ve selected.
  4. You are limited to one StagePass ticket for one session that starts between 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. You are welcome to return to the distribution line after 12:30 p.m. to receive one StagePass ticket for one later session. You may get StagePass tickets for your entire party, as long as you have a D23 EXPO ticket for each StagePass ticket requested for that day, while inventory lasts.
  5. Arrive at Stage 23 or Stage 28 at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the session, with your StagePass ticket, to guarantee your seat. If you do not arrive by this time, a standby guest will fill your seat.

NOTE:
Stage 23 and Stage 28 are general admission seating only, filled on a first-come, first-served basis. StagePass tickets are not assigned to a specific seat. StagePass tickets are not available for Hall D23 sessions, or for presentations scheduled prior to 11:00 a.m. in Stage 23 and Stage 28.