Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
October 22, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
NOTE: If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - new Disney sweepstakes, Walt Disney World room discounts, Walt Disney World vacation packages, Disney Pirates of the Caribbean Cruise, AAA Disneyland package, Universal Orlando vacation deals, and luxury cruise special
* News from around the "World" - Disney reveals details about Hawaiian resort
* Cynthia writes about the singing group Four for a Dollar at Disney's Hollywood Studios
* Alain writes about room safes, fireworks, package delivery, the movie schedule at Fort Wilderness, and admission to Downtown Disney
* Dateline Disney - November-December 2008
* Just in time for Halloween: Face Painting Tips from a Disney Parks Expert
* Blue Sky Cellar Unveils Exciting New Magic Coming to Disney’s California Adventure Park
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
5 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 57 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Walt Disney World vacation packages and room discounts for those wishing to visit before the end of the year. Value resorts from $59. Dining plans may be added.
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Pirates of the Caribbean Cruise aboard the Disney Wonder. Includes:
* A pre-cruise welcome reception at WDW
* Seminar and meeting with actors from the films: Marty Klebba and Lee Arenberg
* Viewing of the three pirate films
* Pirate-themed merchandise for sale
* Exclusive event gifts
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
AAA Package
Includes:
* Mickey’s Toontown Morning Madness
* Preferred seating at some attractions in Disney’s California Adventure
* FREE Parking at the Parks
* Diamond Card savings at certain locations
* Preferred Showing of Turtle Talk with Crush
* Collectible pin, luggage tag and lanyard
* Fun Card savings at certain Downtown Disney locations
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UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Deal #1: 4th night FREE vacation! PLUS, save an additional $50 when you book by Dec.31, 2008.
Deal #2: The longer you stay, the more you SAVE!
* Stay 2 Nights - Save 15%
* Stay 3 Nights - Save 25%
* Stay 4 Nights - Save 30%.
Sample rates: Loews Royal Pacific Resort from $150; Hard Rock Hotel from $161; Loews Portofino Bay Hotel- Rates from $189.
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INAUGURAL CRUISE
Enjoy a luxury cruise as this ship makes its inaugural voyage November 15 and 23. 8 Day Port Canaveral and Bahamas from New York. Interior $719; Ocean View $949; Balcony $1249.
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Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!
>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $299!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
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If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here. Members can use the following URLs to log in:
Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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Disney reveals details about Hawaiian resort
Orlando-area theme parks report 10 ride incidents during past 3 months
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message, search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain newspapers require a free registration to view their articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than one line, copy and paste all lines.
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Cynthia writes:
"Hi John,
On our recent trip to the 'World,' we were able to meet the guys of Four for a Dollar that sing prior to the Beauty and the Beast show at Disney Studios. We had read that they were leaving Disney, and wanted to express our appreciation of their music and our disappointment that they'd no longer be part of our family vacations. Their music is a highlight of our Disney trips as we've enjoyed their too-short performances for the past several years. When I stated that we were sorry to see them go, they expressed that they were sorry to leave and really loved performing there. It was evident that they aren't leaving because they want to, and that this is a move on Disney's part.
Is there anything we can do to reverse Disney's decision to send them packing? Their sound is so unique, and we hate to see such a talent lost from WDW.
We look forward to any advice you can give. Thanks again for your newsletter; we enjoy every edition and have utilized much of the great info you provide."
The same thing happened when Nova Era left Epcot. They were forced out and now we buy their CDs and catch them when we can when they play in Orlando. The best you can do is contact the manager of the Disney Studios and voice your opinion:
General Manager of Disney's Hollywood Studios
PO Box 10000
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
COMPLAINTS AND COMMENTS:
Walt Disney World Guest Communications
P.O. Box 10040
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-0040
You can send a complaint online with this form:
http://disney.go.com/Mail/DisneyWorld/index.html
Let us know their response. Thanks again for your kind comments.
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Alain writes:
"I was wondering if there are safes in all the resort rooms, and if so, are they free? I will be staying at the All-Stars and would like to leave a significant amount of cash in my room while I go to the parks..."
>> Yes and they are free.
"I was wondering if the different fireworks shows at WDW (ie. Illuminations, Wishes, etc.) provide an equal experience when viewed from outside the parks. For example, from a resort beach or a restaurant. Or do these fireworks feature synchronized music that would be missed if watching from outside the parks?"
>> Nothing compares to being close to the action. And the music will be greatly missed.
"Can one ask any merchandise store at WDW to send our purchases to our resort instead of carrying them all day? If so, is it free? Are there any restrictions?"
>> They will send it to your resort for free. Buying merchandise on your last day may not get to your room before you leave. So take those items back to your room with you.
"How can I find out what movie will be shown as part of "Disney Movie Under the Stars" at Chip n Dale's campfire on December 12th? Is there a telephone number I can call to find out? Also, what time does this activity end?"
>> Movie starts 8 PM in summer and 7 PM in winter. The activity ends when the movie ends.
Click here for current schedule.
Disney only publishes the current schedule. You can call the resort at (407) 824-2742 and see if they know yet. Once you're there you'll find the movie schedule posted at the comfort stations.
"Does it cost an admission to get into Downtown Disney to shop and dine?"
>> There is no admission charge to anyone at Downtown Disney.
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Dateline Disney - November-December 2008
Weeks rich with autumnal and yuletide events and festive in-park decorations mark November and December at Walt Disney World Resort. Before the curtain falls on 2008, the Florida Vacation Kingdom is alive with exciting openings and activities to get guests in the spirit - whether that "spirit" is soaps, artwork, PGA TOUR golf or the joys of the holiday season. There are plenty more dreams to go around for guests, too, as Disney’s "Year of a Million Dreams" continues through Dec. 31.
In This Edition:
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Calling all soap fans! Stars come out for the largest fan event; "High School Musical" fans have a new reason to celebrate
Downtown Disney: International flair flavors this year’s Festival of the Masters, a showcase of the best in fine art; Dino-sized cuisine reigns at T-Rex, newest restaurant at
Walt Disney World Resort
Magic Kingdom: Tinker Bell and her fairy friends welcome guests in new pixie-dusted meet-and-greets at Magic Kingdom
Epcot: Last call for Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Disney Resorts: New fun for archers at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
Disney Sports: 38th chapter of a fall golf "Classic" brings down curtain on PGA TOUR season
‘Tis the Season: Holidays a celebration throughout the Florida Vacation Kingdom
Disney Heritage: Latest Disney Ambassador team completing memorable year
ABC Daytime Stars to Appear at ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Presented by Colgate® Total® at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Eden Riegel ("All My Children"), Kassie DePaiva ("One Life to Live") and Bradford Anderson ("General Hospital") are among the talent completing the list of 31 stars from ABC Daytime scheduled to appear at the ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Nov. 15-16. "All My Children’s" Cameron Mathison will headline the event - which will once again be sponsored by Colgate Total - at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort.
Completing the list from "All My Children" are Rebecca Budig, Bobbie Eakes, Melissa Claire Egan, Ricky Paull Goldin, Thorsten Kaye, Alicia Minshew, Aiden Turner and Darnell Williams. The talent from "One Life to Live" includes Kristen Alderson, Brandon Buddy, Michael Easton, Farah Fath, Susan Haskell, John-Paul Lavoisier, Erika Slezak, Jason Tam, Brittany Underwood and Bree Williamson. Completing the list from "General Hospital" will be Brandon Barash, Julie Berman, Tyler Christopher, Jason Cook, Rebecca Herbst, Kelly Monaco, Kirsten Storms, Jason Thompson and Laura Wright. "All My Children’s" Susan Lucci is currently competing on ABC’s hit show "Dancing with the Stars." Her participation in the event is pending her "Dancing with the Stars" schedule.
As previously announced, this year will mark the last Super Soap Weekend as ABC’s Daytime Division embarks on the 2009 Soap Nation Tour, a series of nationwide events designed for interaction with fans on a year-round basis, offering greater access to stars in more cities, more often. The final Walt Disney World weekend will be dedicated to the fans with special retrospectives and exclusive productions, including special trivia and commemorative clip packages honoring the 45th anniversary of "General Hospital," the 40th anniversary of "One Life to Live," "All My Children’s" 10,000th episode and past Super Soap Weekends. Super Soap Weekend will become more interactive than ever with the introduction of new mobile programs and text trivia. A special musical number will be developed for Colgate Total Street Jam that honors the final event as well.
Throughout the weekend, fans will have the opportunity to meet favorite stars from "All My Children," "One Life to Live" and "General Hospital." Festivities include celebrity motorcades, autograph sessions, game shows, interviews and the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind memorabilia from each of the shows. The Colgate Total Street Jam will close the event each day with live musical performances by some favorite Daytime stars.
ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend is included with theme park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios - where guests of all ages are caught up in the glitz, glamour and excitement of show business. For future updates and more information about ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend, guests may call the Super Soap Hotline recording at 407/397-6808, or visit the ABC Daytime Web site at soapnet.com.
Downtown Disney Becomes Lively Outdoor Gallery
During Festival of the Masters, Nov. 7-9
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The lakeside setting of Downtown Disney becomes the backdrop for more than 150 artisans displaying original creations during the 33rd annual Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World Resort, Nov. 7-9, 2008. Festival of the Masters, presented by Sharpie®, is a nationally recognized art show which is ranked among the country’s best outdoor art festivals each year.
To qualify for Festival of the Masters, artists must have earned a primary award in a juried art festival within the last three years. Prospective exhibitors submit award verification and samples of their art to a jury of art experts who select the participants. This process ensures that visitors to the festival will be treated to one of the finest collections of art in the nation.
Sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, glass, and digital art are just some of the art genres showcased at this year’s event. Street painters from the Florida Chalk Artists Association will decorate some 6,000 square feet of sidewalk with unique drawings. Youngsters can take in the fun with live music, face painting and interactive kid’s zones.
House of Blues will celebrate the creative spirit of folk art during the 10th annual "Where the Art Meets the Soul" Folk Art Festival at Downtown Disney West Side.
To add an international flair to the festival, Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will host the works of three artists associated with the Cherrylane Fine Arts Gallery in Delgany, County Wicklow, Ireland.
Festival hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival. Admission is complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, contact 407/824-4321 or visit www.disneyworld.com/artfestival.
Funosaurus! T-Rex at Downtown Disney Takes Guests
On a Dining Adventure to a Prehistoric Time
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Walt Disney World guests can go on an adventure back in time to dine among the dinosaurs as T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover opens it doors at Downtown Disney. Following an October launch, November marks the first full month of operation.
T-Rex, developed by Schussler Creative, Inc., and operated by Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., features dining and retail in a 30,000-square-foot, 600-seat family-friendly interactive prehistoric environment. The concept is built around water, fire and ice: Guests are greeted with life-size animatronic dinosaurs among cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site and much more.
Schussler Creative Chairman Steve Schussler, the founder of Rainforest Café and the T-Rex restaurant, depicts the experience as "edutainment," noting that this "treat for all five senses" includes artifacts such as fossils - all carefully labeled - that are hundreds of millions of years old, carefully crafted animatronic dinosaurs, and even a meteorite found in Argentina. A full-size skeleton replica of Argentinosaurus, one of the largest of the dinosaurs and copied from a museum specimen about 125 feet in length, looms over the entrance, joined by a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
The theme carries over to the menu, which features items with names such as Caesarsaurus (Caesar salad), Raptor Ribs (Asian BBQ ribs), Pterodactyl Wings (Buffalo chicken wings), Triassic Tortellini (tri-colored cheese tortellini) and Gigantosaurus Burger (think really big hamburger!).
Tinker Bell Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to New Fairy Friends
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - To celebrate the animated film "Tinker Bell," Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in a new meet-and-greet experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.
To meet Tinker Bell and her fairy friends, guests enter a magical forest inspired by Pixie Hollow, a special place deep in the heart of Never Land.
Tinker Bell, made famous in the 1953 Disney animated classic "Peter Pan," for her "hostess" role in Disney television specials and for "flying" above the Disney theme parks, is joined by four fairy friends: Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy. Guests can learn more about the Disney Fairies at disneyfairies.com.
Last Call: November Marks Final Days of Epcot Food & Wine Fest
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Like a great meal with memorable courses still to go, there is still time to savor the best of the 13th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The six-week festival continues through Nov. 9 with great tastes from more than 25 festival marketplaces serving up tapas-sized portions of regional specialties, complimentary wine and beer tastings, and culinary demonstrations - plus the nightly Eat to the Beat! concert series featuring these upcoming acts:
· Oct. 31-Nov. 2 - Atlanta Rhythm Section
· Nov. 3-Nov. 5 - David Cassidy
· Nov. 6-Nov. 7 - Night Ranger
· Nov. 8-Nov. 9 - Los Lobos
For more information visit disneyworld.com/food.
Children’s Miracle Network Classic Brings PGA TOUR Pros
To Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic presented by Wal-Mart will be played Nov. 6-9 on Disney’s Magnolia and Palm courses, with practice rounds Nov. 3-5 on the same Walt Disney World Resort layouts.
The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic marks a continuation of the longest-running PGA TOUR event in Central Florida - a 38-year heritage that has produced a champions list which includes Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Vijay Singh, Payne Stewart and many more top professional golfers. Defending champion is Stephen Ames.
As the last event on the 2008 TOUR schedule, the Classic takes on added significance for many golfers striving to earn full playing exemptions for 2009 by finishing among the top 125 money winners in 2008. The purse is $4.6 million, with a share of $828,000 to the winner.
Tickets ($20 for one tournament day, $30 for the whole week including practice days) can be purchased online at childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com or at the tournament entrance. Guests can call the Classic hotline at 407/824-2250 for more information.
Guests Test Archery Skills at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - As part of exciting new additions to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, the resort now invites William Tell-wannabes to grab bow and arrow and test their skills at a new archery range. Whether novice or expert marksman, an archery guide offers training and tips on how to hit the bull’s-eye. Offered on select afternoons and open to resort guests and non-guests alike, the 90-minute experience costs $25 (plus tax) per person, includes instruction and equipment and can be booked ahead by calling 407/939-7529.
New ‘High School Musical’ Fun Comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - A high-energy cast of 14 singers and dancers takes to the streets of Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the new guest-immersive experience, "High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!"
Celebrating the infectious energy of the theatrical motion picture "High School Musical 3: Senior Year," the show takes place on a traveling "rock concert" stage that stops in front of the iconic Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat for production numbers featuring new songs from the movie. Debut of the show is concurrent with the opening of the movie (Oct. 24).
Guests are treated to a total of six original songs from the movie, including a memorably rousing finale entitled "High School Musical."
Envelope, Please: Industry Awards Bestowed on Florida’s Vacation Kingdom
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Walt Disney World Resort was the recipient of recent industry awards for excellence:
* Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa walked off with the honor as "North America’s Leading Resort" in the UK-based World Travel Awards as rated by thousands of agents and travel professionals globally.
* Epcot’s "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth" nighttime spectacular earned the Golden Ticket Award as "Best Outdoor Night Production" in an international poll of the amusement industry conducted by Amusement Today, a leading trade publication.
Magic Kingdom a Holiday Festival
As Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Returns
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Magic Kingdom decks the halls, walls, byways, skies, castle spires and more as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes center stage again this holiday season. The special after-hours event treats Walt Disney World guests to magic and merriment on 18 select nights in 2008: Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30 and Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19. The fun begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours.
It’s a magical night of special holiday entertainment including Castle Dreamlights, an enchanting parade, a nighttime fireworks spectacular, Disney character greetings, tasty treats, "snow" on Main Street, U.S.A. plus the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions.
Admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party requires a separate ticket. Tickets purchased in advance for select nights are $42.95 plus tax for ages 3-9, $48.95 plus tax for ages 10 and over. Day-of-event pricing is $7 more for each ticket. For general information, guests can call 407/W-DISNEY or visit disneyworld.com/holidays.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Shines
With Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Nothing says "Joy of the Season" quite like the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by Sylvania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This year’s spectacular - Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009 - stars millions of blinking, twinkling lights "dancing" to a high-energy holiday symphony.
Guests are treated to twirling carousels, sparkling snowflakes, heavenly angels, majestic trees, twinkling bells, colorful wreaths and Santa with his reindeer. The "dancing lights" moments occur every 10 minutes.
Holidays Around the World Shine Brightly at Epcot
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - "Holidays Around the World" turns Epcot into a fantasy of celebrations Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009. World Showcase comes alive with holiday traditions of food, fun and entertainment from across the globe. There are holiday storytellers, a whole world of holiday shopping and a magnificent tree glistening with lights and color. A grand Epcot tradition, the Candlelight Processional, features celebrity narrators delivering a special retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by an orchestra and mass choir. Even the nighttime spectacular, "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," is topped with a surprise grand finale for the joyous time of year.
New Year’s Eve ‘Cirque-Style’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla - Guests can ring in the New Year "Cirque-style" with La Nouba, by Cirque du Soleil. The eye-filling show features breathtaking performances, moving live music, dazzling choreography and endless imagination all wrapped up with a special finale. Show times are 6 and 9 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at disneyworld.com or by calling 407/WDW-SEAT (407/939-7328).
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Rocks to ‘Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - It’s a holiday combination as perfect as milk and gingerbread cookies. "Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade" blends the spirit of Disney’s Animal Kingdom with the spirit of the season into an unforgettable holiday offering. Dates are Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009.
Inside the Disney Ambassador Program: A True-Life Fairy Tale Revealed
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Much like Cinderella’s Prince Charming searching for the perfect fit in the glass slipper, Disney officials have spent the last few months rigorously looking for a select few cast members who can step into the role of Walt Disney World Ambassador, a 44-year tradition that offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences for those who demonstrate poise, passion and knowledge of Disney heritage.
The honor of being selected Disney Ambassador began during the 10th anniversary of Disneyland when Walt was overwhelmed with requests for appearances and needed a few good surrogates. He selected the first Ambassador in 1964, and the tradition has continued ever since.
Serving as the face of the company and good will ambassador to the world, the 2008 Walt Disney World Ambassador Team of Kerri MacPherson (originally from Melrose, Mass.) and TC Newman (originally from Tustin, Calif.) has participated in more than 1,300 events, visited 38 children’s hospitals during a 22-city national tour and logged tens of thousands of miles traveling to Disney destinations around the globe during a term of service that began in January. They’ve hosted VIPs and dignitaries at Walt Disney World Resort, cut hundreds of grand-opening ribbons, shared third-shift breakfasts at 1 a.m. and read story books to Central Florida children.
Their successor team will participate in training during November for the year-long temporary assignment that begins Jan. 1, 2009. For them, the experience of representing the 62,000 cast members of Walt Disney World Resort will make it one of the most memorable years of their lives. (Source: Press Release, 10/14/08)
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Just in time for Halloween: Face Painting Tips from a Disney Parks Expert
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - A glitter-dusted tiara for a dainty princess...a bandana, eye patch and a scruffy beard for a pirate...whimsical wings for a fairy...brightly colored stripes and wispy whiskers for a not-so-ferocious tiger.
Instead of buying additional costume accessories to create these looks, why not try painting them on? Face painting is popular with guests of all ages at Walt Disney World, and it’s a great - and safe - way to enhance any costume. Not only can the looks be more customized to the child’s personality, the child’s range of vision is not affected as it could be in a store-bought mask.
Here are some timely tips for applying face makeup from Rebecca Downin, one of the face painting artists in Mickey’s Toontown Fair in the Magic Kingdom:
* Always use a water-based theatrical makeup, one that is hypo-allergenic and non-toxic.
* Begin the design by using a soft, round sponge to apply the larger areas of color on the child’s face.
* Then, use thin brushes (smaller brushes from local craft stores will do nicely) to paint on details and lines.
* Once done with the design, use baby wipes and moist cotton swabs to clean up the edges. Then, make any needed corrections.
* For an extra-special, finishing touch, use the detail end of a small brush to apply a dab or two of non-metallic, round-cut glitter. (Source: Press Release, 10/14/08)
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Blue Sky Cellar Unveils Exciting New Magic Coming to Disney’s California Adventure Park
ANAHEIM, Calif., October 15, 2008 - Nestled in the Golden Vine Winery at the base of Grizzly Peak in Disney’s California Adventure Park, the Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar is a place where Guests will get an exclusive sneak preview of what is new and what is in store for the expansion of the Disneyland Resort. Beginning October 20, Guests will view working models as well as dozens of concepts and sketches from Disney Imagineers, the creative minds behind the design and construction of Disney theme parks and attractions.
With Blue Sky Cellar, Guests will be invited for the first time to preview works in progress at Disneyland Resort by immersing themselves in a facsimile of an Imagineering workspace. Based on the belief that idea gathering is best when "the sky’s the limit," the Blue Sky Cellar is designed to resemble an Imagineering "charette," an extended creative idea development meeting. Guests receive an inside-look at how Imagineers take "blue sky" ideas and refine them into the classic storytelling that characterizes Disney Theme Park attractions and adventures.
In this whimsical immersive setting, Imagineers have taken over a former wine cellar and set up shop. Wine barrels have turned into work stations and the former wine tasting room has become a screening room where videos showcase the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into the creation of new and upcoming attractions for Disney’s California Adventure.
Guests will view several new attraction models, including the newly envisioned Paradise Pier area with its turn-of-the-20th-Century look, ride vehicle maquettes from Toy Story Mania!; and the new character overlays to the Games of the Boardwalk. Special features include updates and character additions to attractions such as Mickey’s Fun Wheel (an enhancement of the current Sun Wheel) and Silly Symphony Swings (a refreshed and rethemed Orange Stinger).
Brand new sketches and artwork line the walls including images of the new entrance area, soon to be known as Buena Vista Street, which will bring to life a nostalgic look at Los Angeles from the 1920s and 30s when Walt Disney first arrived in California; a Red Car trolley, reminiscent of the Pacific Electric Railway; and a new central plaza area including a replica of the Carthay Circle Theatre, where Walt premiered Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
The "coming soon" area features images of Disney’s World of Color and The Little Mermaid attraction, and looks even further ahead to Cars Land, a 12-acre expansion of the Park which will bring to life the town of Radiator Springs from the Disney/Pixar animated film Cars, complete with three new attractions for the whole family. Additionally, Guests in Blue Sky Cellar will have fun testing their knowledge of Disney trivia at one of the interactive workstations.
The screening room features Imagineers describing the approach and vision of the Disney California Adventure expansion. Guests will see footage of model-making, sculpting, blue sky meetings and all the aspects of bringing a Disney concept to life.
Included in the original announcement of the multi-year expansion of the Disneyland Resort in Fall 2007, the Blue Sky Cellar is part of the overall commitment to keep the community and Disneyland Resort Guests informed of the exciting new and upcoming plans for the Resort. Future updates will focus on other new areas and attractions, and Guests are invited to return periodically for additional exciting information. (Source: Press Release, 10/15/08)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
October 22, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
NOTE: If you want to visit Walt Disney World when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - new Disney sweepstakes, Walt Disney World room discounts, Walt Disney World vacation packages, Disney Pirates of the Caribbean Cruise, AAA Disneyland package, Universal Orlando vacation deals, and luxury cruise special
* News from around the "World" - Disney reveals details about Hawaiian resort
* Cynthia writes about the singing group Four for a Dollar at Disney's Hollywood Studios
* Alain writes about room safes, fireworks, package delivery, the movie schedule at Fort Wilderness, and admission to Downtown Disney
* Dateline Disney - November-December 2008
* Just in time for Halloween: Face Painting Tips from a Disney Parks Expert
* Blue Sky Cellar Unveils Exciting New Magic Coming to Disney’s California Adventure Park
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
5 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 57 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Walt Disney World vacation packages and room discounts for those wishing to visit before the end of the year. Value resorts from $59. Dining plans may be added.
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Pirates of the Caribbean Cruise aboard the Disney Wonder. Includes:
* A pre-cruise welcome reception at WDW
* Seminar and meeting with actors from the films: Marty Klebba and Lee Arenberg
* Viewing of the three pirate films
* Pirate-themed merchandise for sale
* Exclusive event gifts
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
AAA Package
Includes:
* Mickey’s Toontown Morning Madness
* Preferred seating at some attractions in Disney’s California Adventure
* FREE Parking at the Parks
* Diamond Card savings at certain locations
* Preferred Showing of Turtle Talk with Crush
* Collectible pin, luggage tag and lanyard
* Fun Card savings at certain Downtown Disney locations
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UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Deal #1: 4th night FREE vacation! PLUS, save an additional $50 when you book by Dec.31, 2008.
Deal #2: The longer you stay, the more you SAVE!
* Stay 2 Nights - Save 15%
* Stay 3 Nights - Save 25%
* Stay 4 Nights - Save 30%.
Sample rates: Loews Royal Pacific Resort from $150; Hard Rock Hotel from $161; Loews Portofino Bay Hotel- Rates from $189.
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INAUGURAL CRUISE
Enjoy a luxury cruise as this ship makes its inaugural voyage November 15 and 23. 8 Day Port Canaveral and Bahamas from New York. Interior $719; Ocean View $949; Balcony $1249.
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Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!
>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $299!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
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If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here. Members can use the following URLs to log in:
Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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Disney reveals details about Hawaiian resort
Orlando-area theme parks report 10 ride incidents during past 3 months
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message, search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain newspapers require a free registration to view their articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than one line, copy and paste all lines.
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Cynthia writes:
"Hi John,
On our recent trip to the 'World,' we were able to meet the guys of Four for a Dollar that sing prior to the Beauty and the Beast show at Disney Studios. We had read that they were leaving Disney, and wanted to express our appreciation of their music and our disappointment that they'd no longer be part of our family vacations. Their music is a highlight of our Disney trips as we've enjoyed their too-short performances for the past several years. When I stated that we were sorry to see them go, they expressed that they were sorry to leave and really loved performing there. It was evident that they aren't leaving because they want to, and that this is a move on Disney's part.
Is there anything we can do to reverse Disney's decision to send them packing? Their sound is so unique, and we hate to see such a talent lost from WDW.
We look forward to any advice you can give. Thanks again for your newsletter; we enjoy every edition and have utilized much of the great info you provide."
The same thing happened when Nova Era left Epcot. They were forced out and now we buy their CDs and catch them when we can when they play in Orlando. The best you can do is contact the manager of the Disney Studios and voice your opinion:
General Manager of Disney's Hollywood Studios
PO Box 10000
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
COMPLAINTS AND COMMENTS:
Walt Disney World Guest Communications
P.O. Box 10040
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-0040
You can send a complaint online with this form:
http://disney.go.com/Mail/DisneyWorld/index.html
Let us know their response. Thanks again for your kind comments.
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Alain writes:
"I was wondering if there are safes in all the resort rooms, and if so, are they free? I will be staying at the All-Stars and would like to leave a significant amount of cash in my room while I go to the parks..."
>> Yes and they are free.
"I was wondering if the different fireworks shows at WDW (ie. Illuminations, Wishes, etc.) provide an equal experience when viewed from outside the parks. For example, from a resort beach or a restaurant. Or do these fireworks feature synchronized music that would be missed if watching from outside the parks?"
>> Nothing compares to being close to the action. And the music will be greatly missed.
"Can one ask any merchandise store at WDW to send our purchases to our resort instead of carrying them all day? If so, is it free? Are there any restrictions?"
>> They will send it to your resort for free. Buying merchandise on your last day may not get to your room before you leave. So take those items back to your room with you.
"How can I find out what movie will be shown as part of "Disney Movie Under the Stars" at Chip n Dale's campfire on December 12th? Is there a telephone number I can call to find out? Also, what time does this activity end?"
>> Movie starts 8 PM in summer and 7 PM in winter. The activity ends when the movie ends.
Click here for current schedule.
Disney only publishes the current schedule. You can call the resort at (407) 824-2742 and see if they know yet. Once you're there you'll find the movie schedule posted at the comfort stations.
"Does it cost an admission to get into Downtown Disney to shop and dine?"
>> There is no admission charge to anyone at Downtown Disney.
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Dateline Disney - November-December 2008
Weeks rich with autumnal and yuletide events and festive in-park decorations mark November and December at Walt Disney World Resort. Before the curtain falls on 2008, the Florida Vacation Kingdom is alive with exciting openings and activities to get guests in the spirit - whether that "spirit" is soaps, artwork, PGA TOUR golf or the joys of the holiday season. There are plenty more dreams to go around for guests, too, as Disney’s "Year of a Million Dreams" continues through Dec. 31.
In This Edition:
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Calling all soap fans! Stars come out for the largest fan event; "High School Musical" fans have a new reason to celebrate
Downtown Disney: International flair flavors this year’s Festival of the Masters, a showcase of the best in fine art; Dino-sized cuisine reigns at T-Rex, newest restaurant at
Walt Disney World Resort
Magic Kingdom: Tinker Bell and her fairy friends welcome guests in new pixie-dusted meet-and-greets at Magic Kingdom
Epcot: Last call for Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Disney Resorts: New fun for archers at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
Disney Sports: 38th chapter of a fall golf "Classic" brings down curtain on PGA TOUR season
‘Tis the Season: Holidays a celebration throughout the Florida Vacation Kingdom
Disney Heritage: Latest Disney Ambassador team completing memorable year
ABC Daytime Stars to Appear at ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Presented by Colgate® Total® at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Eden Riegel ("All My Children"), Kassie DePaiva ("One Life to Live") and Bradford Anderson ("General Hospital") are among the talent completing the list of 31 stars from ABC Daytime scheduled to appear at the ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Nov. 15-16. "All My Children’s" Cameron Mathison will headline the event - which will once again be sponsored by Colgate Total - at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort.
Completing the list from "All My Children" are Rebecca Budig, Bobbie Eakes, Melissa Claire Egan, Ricky Paull Goldin, Thorsten Kaye, Alicia Minshew, Aiden Turner and Darnell Williams. The talent from "One Life to Live" includes Kristen Alderson, Brandon Buddy, Michael Easton, Farah Fath, Susan Haskell, John-Paul Lavoisier, Erika Slezak, Jason Tam, Brittany Underwood and Bree Williamson. Completing the list from "General Hospital" will be Brandon Barash, Julie Berman, Tyler Christopher, Jason Cook, Rebecca Herbst, Kelly Monaco, Kirsten Storms, Jason Thompson and Laura Wright. "All My Children’s" Susan Lucci is currently competing on ABC’s hit show "Dancing with the Stars." Her participation in the event is pending her "Dancing with the Stars" schedule.
As previously announced, this year will mark the last Super Soap Weekend as ABC’s Daytime Division embarks on the 2009 Soap Nation Tour, a series of nationwide events designed for interaction with fans on a year-round basis, offering greater access to stars in more cities, more often. The final Walt Disney World weekend will be dedicated to the fans with special retrospectives and exclusive productions, including special trivia and commemorative clip packages honoring the 45th anniversary of "General Hospital," the 40th anniversary of "One Life to Live," "All My Children’s" 10,000th episode and past Super Soap Weekends. Super Soap Weekend will become more interactive than ever with the introduction of new mobile programs and text trivia. A special musical number will be developed for Colgate Total Street Jam that honors the final event as well.
Throughout the weekend, fans will have the opportunity to meet favorite stars from "All My Children," "One Life to Live" and "General Hospital." Festivities include celebrity motorcades, autograph sessions, game shows, interviews and the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind memorabilia from each of the shows. The Colgate Total Street Jam will close the event each day with live musical performances by some favorite Daytime stars.
ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend is included with theme park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios - where guests of all ages are caught up in the glitz, glamour and excitement of show business. For future updates and more information about ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend, guests may call the Super Soap Hotline recording at 407/397-6808, or visit the ABC Daytime Web site at soapnet.com.
Downtown Disney Becomes Lively Outdoor Gallery
During Festival of the Masters, Nov. 7-9
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The lakeside setting of Downtown Disney becomes the backdrop for more than 150 artisans displaying original creations during the 33rd annual Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World Resort, Nov. 7-9, 2008. Festival of the Masters, presented by Sharpie®, is a nationally recognized art show which is ranked among the country’s best outdoor art festivals each year.
To qualify for Festival of the Masters, artists must have earned a primary award in a juried art festival within the last three years. Prospective exhibitors submit award verification and samples of their art to a jury of art experts who select the participants. This process ensures that visitors to the festival will be treated to one of the finest collections of art in the nation.
Sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, glass, and digital art are just some of the art genres showcased at this year’s event. Street painters from the Florida Chalk Artists Association will decorate some 6,000 square feet of sidewalk with unique drawings. Youngsters can take in the fun with live music, face painting and interactive kid’s zones.
House of Blues will celebrate the creative spirit of folk art during the 10th annual "Where the Art Meets the Soul" Folk Art Festival at Downtown Disney West Side.
To add an international flair to the festival, Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will host the works of three artists associated with the Cherrylane Fine Arts Gallery in Delgany, County Wicklow, Ireland.
Festival hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival. Admission is complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, contact 407/824-4321 or visit www.disneyworld.com/artfestival.
Funosaurus! T-Rex at Downtown Disney Takes Guests
On a Dining Adventure to a Prehistoric Time
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Walt Disney World guests can go on an adventure back in time to dine among the dinosaurs as T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover opens it doors at Downtown Disney. Following an October launch, November marks the first full month of operation.
T-Rex, developed by Schussler Creative, Inc., and operated by Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., features dining and retail in a 30,000-square-foot, 600-seat family-friendly interactive prehistoric environment. The concept is built around water, fire and ice: Guests are greeted with life-size animatronic dinosaurs among cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site and much more.
Schussler Creative Chairman Steve Schussler, the founder of Rainforest Café and the T-Rex restaurant, depicts the experience as "edutainment," noting that this "treat for all five senses" includes artifacts such as fossils - all carefully labeled - that are hundreds of millions of years old, carefully crafted animatronic dinosaurs, and even a meteorite found in Argentina. A full-size skeleton replica of Argentinosaurus, one of the largest of the dinosaurs and copied from a museum specimen about 125 feet in length, looms over the entrance, joined by a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
The theme carries over to the menu, which features items with names such as Caesarsaurus (Caesar salad), Raptor Ribs (Asian BBQ ribs), Pterodactyl Wings (Buffalo chicken wings), Triassic Tortellini (tri-colored cheese tortellini) and Gigantosaurus Burger (think really big hamburger!).
Tinker Bell Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to New Fairy Friends
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - To celebrate the animated film "Tinker Bell," Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in a new meet-and-greet experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.
To meet Tinker Bell and her fairy friends, guests enter a magical forest inspired by Pixie Hollow, a special place deep in the heart of Never Land.
Tinker Bell, made famous in the 1953 Disney animated classic "Peter Pan," for her "hostess" role in Disney television specials and for "flying" above the Disney theme parks, is joined by four fairy friends: Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy. Guests can learn more about the Disney Fairies at disneyfairies.com.
Last Call: November Marks Final Days of Epcot Food & Wine Fest
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Like a great meal with memorable courses still to go, there is still time to savor the best of the 13th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The six-week festival continues through Nov. 9 with great tastes from more than 25 festival marketplaces serving up tapas-sized portions of regional specialties, complimentary wine and beer tastings, and culinary demonstrations - plus the nightly Eat to the Beat! concert series featuring these upcoming acts:
· Oct. 31-Nov. 2 - Atlanta Rhythm Section
· Nov. 3-Nov. 5 - David Cassidy
· Nov. 6-Nov. 7 - Night Ranger
· Nov. 8-Nov. 9 - Los Lobos
For more information visit disneyworld.com/food.
Children’s Miracle Network Classic Brings PGA TOUR Pros
To Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic presented by Wal-Mart will be played Nov. 6-9 on Disney’s Magnolia and Palm courses, with practice rounds Nov. 3-5 on the same Walt Disney World Resort layouts.
The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic marks a continuation of the longest-running PGA TOUR event in Central Florida - a 38-year heritage that has produced a champions list which includes Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Vijay Singh, Payne Stewart and many more top professional golfers. Defending champion is Stephen Ames.
As the last event on the 2008 TOUR schedule, the Classic takes on added significance for many golfers striving to earn full playing exemptions for 2009 by finishing among the top 125 money winners in 2008. The purse is $4.6 million, with a share of $828,000 to the winner.
Tickets ($20 for one tournament day, $30 for the whole week including practice days) can be purchased online at childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com or at the tournament entrance. Guests can call the Classic hotline at 407/824-2250 for more information.
Guests Test Archery Skills at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - As part of exciting new additions to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, the resort now invites William Tell-wannabes to grab bow and arrow and test their skills at a new archery range. Whether novice or expert marksman, an archery guide offers training and tips on how to hit the bull’s-eye. Offered on select afternoons and open to resort guests and non-guests alike, the 90-minute experience costs $25 (plus tax) per person, includes instruction and equipment and can be booked ahead by calling 407/939-7529.
New ‘High School Musical’ Fun Comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - A high-energy cast of 14 singers and dancers takes to the streets of Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the new guest-immersive experience, "High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!"
Celebrating the infectious energy of the theatrical motion picture "High School Musical 3: Senior Year," the show takes place on a traveling "rock concert" stage that stops in front of the iconic Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat for production numbers featuring new songs from the movie. Debut of the show is concurrent with the opening of the movie (Oct. 24).
Guests are treated to a total of six original songs from the movie, including a memorably rousing finale entitled "High School Musical."
Envelope, Please: Industry Awards Bestowed on Florida’s Vacation Kingdom
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Walt Disney World Resort was the recipient of recent industry awards for excellence:
* Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa walked off with the honor as "North America’s Leading Resort" in the UK-based World Travel Awards as rated by thousands of agents and travel professionals globally.
* Epcot’s "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth" nighttime spectacular earned the Golden Ticket Award as "Best Outdoor Night Production" in an international poll of the amusement industry conducted by Amusement Today, a leading trade publication.
Magic Kingdom a Holiday Festival
As Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Returns
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Magic Kingdom decks the halls, walls, byways, skies, castle spires and more as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes center stage again this holiday season. The special after-hours event treats Walt Disney World guests to magic and merriment on 18 select nights in 2008: Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30 and Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19. The fun begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours.
It’s a magical night of special holiday entertainment including Castle Dreamlights, an enchanting parade, a nighttime fireworks spectacular, Disney character greetings, tasty treats, "snow" on Main Street, U.S.A. plus the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions.
Admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party requires a separate ticket. Tickets purchased in advance for select nights are $42.95 plus tax for ages 3-9, $48.95 plus tax for ages 10 and over. Day-of-event pricing is $7 more for each ticket. For general information, guests can call 407/W-DISNEY or visit disneyworld.com/holidays.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Shines
With Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Nothing says "Joy of the Season" quite like the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by Sylvania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This year’s spectacular - Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009 - stars millions of blinking, twinkling lights "dancing" to a high-energy holiday symphony.
Guests are treated to twirling carousels, sparkling snowflakes, heavenly angels, majestic trees, twinkling bells, colorful wreaths and Santa with his reindeer. The "dancing lights" moments occur every 10 minutes.
Holidays Around the World Shine Brightly at Epcot
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - "Holidays Around the World" turns Epcot into a fantasy of celebrations Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009. World Showcase comes alive with holiday traditions of food, fun and entertainment from across the globe. There are holiday storytellers, a whole world of holiday shopping and a magnificent tree glistening with lights and color. A grand Epcot tradition, the Candlelight Processional, features celebrity narrators delivering a special retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by an orchestra and mass choir. Even the nighttime spectacular, "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," is topped with a surprise grand finale for the joyous time of year.
New Year’s Eve ‘Cirque-Style’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla - Guests can ring in the New Year "Cirque-style" with La Nouba, by Cirque du Soleil. The eye-filling show features breathtaking performances, moving live music, dazzling choreography and endless imagination all wrapped up with a special finale. Show times are 6 and 9 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at disneyworld.com or by calling 407/WDW-SEAT (407/939-7328).
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Rocks to ‘Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - It’s a holiday combination as perfect as milk and gingerbread cookies. "Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade" blends the spirit of Disney’s Animal Kingdom with the spirit of the season into an unforgettable holiday offering. Dates are Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009.
Inside the Disney Ambassador Program: A True-Life Fairy Tale Revealed
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Much like Cinderella’s Prince Charming searching for the perfect fit in the glass slipper, Disney officials have spent the last few months rigorously looking for a select few cast members who can step into the role of Walt Disney World Ambassador, a 44-year tradition that offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences for those who demonstrate poise, passion and knowledge of Disney heritage.
The honor of being selected Disney Ambassador began during the 10th anniversary of Disneyland when Walt was overwhelmed with requests for appearances and needed a few good surrogates. He selected the first Ambassador in 1964, and the tradition has continued ever since.
Serving as the face of the company and good will ambassador to the world, the 2008 Walt Disney World Ambassador Team of Kerri MacPherson (originally from Melrose, Mass.) and TC Newman (originally from Tustin, Calif.) has participated in more than 1,300 events, visited 38 children’s hospitals during a 22-city national tour and logged tens of thousands of miles traveling to Disney destinations around the globe during a term of service that began in January. They’ve hosted VIPs and dignitaries at Walt Disney World Resort, cut hundreds of grand-opening ribbons, shared third-shift breakfasts at 1 a.m. and read story books to Central Florida children.
Their successor team will participate in training during November for the year-long temporary assignment that begins Jan. 1, 2009. For them, the experience of representing the 62,000 cast members of Walt Disney World Resort will make it one of the most memorable years of their lives. (Source: Press Release, 10/14/08)
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Just in time for Halloween: Face Painting Tips from a Disney Parks Expert
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - A glitter-dusted tiara for a dainty princess...a bandana, eye patch and a scruffy beard for a pirate...whimsical wings for a fairy...brightly colored stripes and wispy whiskers for a not-so-ferocious tiger.
Instead of buying additional costume accessories to create these looks, why not try painting them on? Face painting is popular with guests of all ages at Walt Disney World, and it’s a great - and safe - way to enhance any costume. Not only can the looks be more customized to the child’s personality, the child’s range of vision is not affected as it could be in a store-bought mask.
Here are some timely tips for applying face makeup from Rebecca Downin, one of the face painting artists in Mickey’s Toontown Fair in the Magic Kingdom:
* Always use a water-based theatrical makeup, one that is hypo-allergenic and non-toxic.
* Begin the design by using a soft, round sponge to apply the larger areas of color on the child’s face.
* Then, use thin brushes (smaller brushes from local craft stores will do nicely) to paint on details and lines.
* Once done with the design, use baby wipes and moist cotton swabs to clean up the edges. Then, make any needed corrections.
* For an extra-special, finishing touch, use the detail end of a small brush to apply a dab or two of non-metallic, round-cut glitter. (Source: Press Release, 10/14/08)
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Blue Sky Cellar Unveils Exciting New Magic Coming to Disney’s California Adventure Park
ANAHEIM, Calif., October 15, 2008 - Nestled in the Golden Vine Winery at the base of Grizzly Peak in Disney’s California Adventure Park, the Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar is a place where Guests will get an exclusive sneak preview of what is new and what is in store for the expansion of the Disneyland Resort. Beginning October 20, Guests will view working models as well as dozens of concepts and sketches from Disney Imagineers, the creative minds behind the design and construction of Disney theme parks and attractions.
With Blue Sky Cellar, Guests will be invited for the first time to preview works in progress at Disneyland Resort by immersing themselves in a facsimile of an Imagineering workspace. Based on the belief that idea gathering is best when "the sky’s the limit," the Blue Sky Cellar is designed to resemble an Imagineering "charette," an extended creative idea development meeting. Guests receive an inside-look at how Imagineers take "blue sky" ideas and refine them into the classic storytelling that characterizes Disney Theme Park attractions and adventures.
In this whimsical immersive setting, Imagineers have taken over a former wine cellar and set up shop. Wine barrels have turned into work stations and the former wine tasting room has become a screening room where videos showcase the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into the creation of new and upcoming attractions for Disney’s California Adventure.
Guests will view several new attraction models, including the newly envisioned Paradise Pier area with its turn-of-the-20th-Century look, ride vehicle maquettes from Toy Story Mania!; and the new character overlays to the Games of the Boardwalk. Special features include updates and character additions to attractions such as Mickey’s Fun Wheel (an enhancement of the current Sun Wheel) and Silly Symphony Swings (a refreshed and rethemed Orange Stinger).
Brand new sketches and artwork line the walls including images of the new entrance area, soon to be known as Buena Vista Street, which will bring to life a nostalgic look at Los Angeles from the 1920s and 30s when Walt Disney first arrived in California; a Red Car trolley, reminiscent of the Pacific Electric Railway; and a new central plaza area including a replica of the Carthay Circle Theatre, where Walt premiered Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
The "coming soon" area features images of Disney’s World of Color and The Little Mermaid attraction, and looks even further ahead to Cars Land, a 12-acre expansion of the Park which will bring to life the town of Radiator Springs from the Disney/Pixar animated film Cars, complete with three new attractions for the whole family. Additionally, Guests in Blue Sky Cellar will have fun testing their knowledge of Disney trivia at one of the interactive workstations.
The screening room features Imagineers describing the approach and vision of the Disney California Adventure expansion. Guests will see footage of model-making, sculpting, blue sky meetings and all the aspects of bringing a Disney concept to life.
Included in the original announcement of the multi-year expansion of the Disneyland Resort in Fall 2007, the Blue Sky Cellar is part of the overall commitment to keep the community and Disneyland Resort Guests informed of the exciting new and upcoming plans for the Resort. Future updates will focus on other new areas and attractions, and Guests are invited to return periodically for additional exciting information. (Source: Press Release, 10/15/08)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:59 AM
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