Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
October 29, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:
Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml
: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blog
content to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!
: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN!
Add to My MSN!
=================================================
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, WDW Good Neighbor Hotel special, Disney cruise line discounts, dining certificate special, and Orlando hotel FREE night deals
* News from around the "World" - Disney fairies open at Magic Kingdom
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about amazing new things happening in the cruise world
* Downtown Disney Becomes Lively Outdoor Gallery During Festival of the Masters, Nov. 7-9
* The Polar Express Experience Comes To SeaWorld For The Holidays
* High School Musical 3 Live Show Opens at Disney's California Adventure
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
4 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 58 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Discounts at Restaurants near Disney: This resource offers money saving dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, in Anaheim, near Disneyland California, and all across the US. Get $25 certificates for $2! Expires 10/31/08.
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from $899
* 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from $899
-------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Save 35% at this popular Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel! Beth writes: "I've seen this hotel and it's very close to Disney. You can't beat the price. Kids 12 and under always eat free. I'd give it a very solid 3 to 3.5 stars." Pet friendly. Free shuttle to the parks. Full service restaurant and food court. From $48 per night! Expires 01/15/09!
-------------------------------
FREE NIGHTS AT ORLANDO HOTELS
7 Orlando hotels offering one night FREE!
=================================================
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!
--------------------------------
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!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $299!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
--------------------------------
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.
--------------------------------
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
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
The whole family can dig in at Disney's T-Rex Cafe
At Walt Disney World, even the new employee medical clinic is bound to have a few Disney-like flourishes.
Crab Mac & Cheese recipe from The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
It's Tinker Bell's week with Magic Kingdom attraction opening and DVD release
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Universal bans hundreds of underage drinkers during Horror Nights
Jack Hanna, Shamu Christmas, Polar Express and more coming to SeaWorld
See Press Release below.
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
High School Musical 3 live show debuts at Disney’s California Adventure
Disneyland Resort Calendar
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, writes:
"I just finished the first of two webinars on the new Celebrity Solstice, debuting next month in Ft. Lauderdale. This is probably as good a time as any to let readers know about all the new developments in cruising since this type of vacation offers one of the best values available today. Cruises are also a fabulous family vacation opportunity, so if you've been to see The Mouse a few times you might be looking for a change of pace.
The Solstice is the first new ship for Celebrity in six years. There will be four ships in this new class, the next one being the Equinox due out next summer. These ships offer ten dining venues, real grass growing on the top deck (perfect for doing picnic lunches), and a whopping 85% of the cabins have balconies. Standard cabins are larger than most, and many have sofa and trundle beds to accommodate extra people in the cabin. Interestingly, during the design phase of these ships, the company consulted five women including a frequent cruiser, a travel agent, and someone who'd never cruised before to see what they were interested in. The result was some innovations that someone should have done years ago, like more storage space for luggage under the beds, a ledge in the shower for easier leg shaving, and fog-free mirrors. Connecting cabins also have a cool way of connecting both the rooms and the balconies that allows for more privacy as well as some flexibility. Celebrity is very comparable to Princess, a definite step up from Royal Caribbean and Carnival.
And speaking of Princess, the Ruby Princess also debuts next month. In fact, I'll be attending the 2-night 'cruise to nowhere' for the naming ceremony in about 10 days. (Can't wait!) One of the neat things about Princess ships is that, if you like one then you'll probably like them all. While the new classes of ships each have many new innovations, the line works hard to incorporate similarities so that those familiar with the line always feel right at home and can easily learn the layout of the ship. Princess does a fabulous job with their children's facilities as well as the teen centers, and their cabins and balconies have always seemed particularly spacious to me - especially if you book one of the numerous (and usually very affordable) minisuites. The Ruby Princess features Movies Under the Stars, a multitude of dining options, and the popular piazza dining, shopping and entertainment area in the atrium.
There's one ship, though, that I simply HAVE to bring up because if you love to cruise and think bigger is always better the Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is sure to please. In fact, it will give 'shock and awe' a whole new meaning. When she debuts in November 2009 she will be the largest passenger ship afloat, carrying 5,400 passengers. Announced just last week, the ship's Youth Zone is one of six 'neighborhoods' aboard and as far as I'm concerned it's high time someone FINALLY offered a full-blown nursery so parents with infants can really relax. (Disney ships have them, but the hours are very limited.) Aside from really cool (and very extensive) child and teen areas, the ship will have TWO flow riders (those surfing things you've seen on TV) as well as rock climbing, ice skating, zip lining and more. The atrium cabins with French windows that Voyager and Freedom class ships have will now boast full-fledged balconies overlooking the promenade which is lined with real trees and open to the sky above (so if it rains outside it will also rain INSIDE the ship). As fun and entertaining as these jumbo ships are for adults, if you have teens or 'tweens in your group they just can't be beat - and most of my clients with kids in that age group would agree with me that the ships are WAY better for those kids than Disney ships.
And yes, Disney is building new ships, too. We just don't have the details yet. Plenty of details out on the ones mentioned and others, though. For those that don't know, I started my travel career as a chief purser many, many moons ago and am a total cruise-aholic. I'm also a certified cruise specialist, so if Disney isn't working out for you - or you just need a change - let me know. I'd love to help you plan a great cruise vacation, and there are plenty of deals to be had these days!"
=================================================
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. (Source: Press Release, 10/27/08)
=================================================
The Polar Express Experience Comes To Seaworld For The Holidays
Orlando, Fla. - Jump aboard The Polar Express Experience when it rolls into SeaWorld this holiday season beginning Nov. 14, 2008 and continuing through Jan. 4, 2009. SeaWorld’s Wild Arctic transforms into the fabled Santa Town taking guests on a magical trip to the North Pole.
The Polar Express Experience is based on the Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment film, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal-winning children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. The Polar Express Experience is a heart-warming journey, where families share in the excitement and wonder of a truly unforgettable train ride. This enchanting experience will surround guests with the true spirit of the season through laughs, exciting thrills and special animal encounters.
The adventure unfolds on a Christmas Eve night with a young boy lying awake, eagerly listening for the sound of Santa’s ringing sleigh bells. As the boy gazes out his frosted bedroom window, a soft mist appears and just in that very moment, a roaring black train rumbles to a halt in front of the boy’s house. Filled with excitement and awe, the boy races out his front door, dashes across the freshly fallen snow and climbs aboard The Polar Express.
As the train’s whistle blows, guests embark on the same adventure as they board The Polar Express Experience to the North Pole. Classic scenes from the movie are recreated in a multi-sensory experience immersing passengers in special lighting, scent, sound and motion effects. Upon arrival guests find themselves within a winter wonderland surrounded by holiday cheer, graceful beluga whales, powerful polar bears and giant walruses. They will delight in the smell of Christmas cookies filling the air and bright lights glistening on a festive towering tree as families greet Santa and share in a magical moment.
Across the way, just as the winter air cools and the evening stars appear, families can join Shamu for a magnificent holiday show: "Shamu Christmas ... Miracles." This very special showing runs nightly beginning Nov. 12 and continues through Dec. 30, 2008. Shamu Stadium will illuminate with bright lights and glowing candles as Christmas carols adored and Shamu splashes to celebrate the holiday season.
While strolling around SeaWorld’s lake or through The Waterfront’s holiday-themed array of gift shops and restaurants, families can wander along a winter scene as glistening snow flurries fill the air. Guests can also experience "Christmastide" - a spectacular holiday fountain show where jewels of water and light adorn the night and dance to the merry musical sounds of Christmas. "Christmastide" begins Nov. 12 and runs through Dec. 25, 2008.
Igniting the spirit of the season is the "Makahiki Christmas Luau," a South Seas-style festive celebration including succulent island cuisine keeping with the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific Islands. Joyful songs of the season are reinterpreted with Polynesian rhythms, music and dance during this festive holiday celebration. "Makahiki Christmas Luau" begins Nov. 12, 2008 and continues through Jan. 4, 2009 (except Dec. 25). Park admission is not required. Prices are $46.00 plus tax for adults and $29.00 plus tax for children (ages 3-9)
Families can ring in the New Year at SeaWorld on Dec. 31 with a musical extravaganza including the best in pop, Latin and swing music. At the stroke of midnight, the evening sky will shine even brighter with a vibrant fireworks show to celebrate the festivities.
For Guest information, call 1 (888) 800-5447 or visit SeaWorld.com. (Source: Press Release, 10/24/08)
=================================================
'High School Musical 3' Live Show Opens at Disney's California Adventure
Fans of the "High School Musical" films will be able to join the fun as "High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!" premieres Oct. 24 at Disney’s California Adventure.
The new, interactive street show invites Guests to dance, sing along and celebrate the music of the new theatrical motion picture "High School Musical 3: Senior Year," which also debuts in theaters on Oct. 24.
Featuring a cast of 14 dynamic singers and dancers, the Disney show takes place on a traveling stage that creates a live-concert experience, complete with stacks of speakers and rows of lights. Entertainment featuring six new songs from the movie will draw guests into the streets of Disney’s California Adventure for an exciting, high-energy dance party.
Three shows will be perfomred daily at Sun Plaza, near the main entrance, and the Golden State Stage.
Teens and tweens who are big fans of the "High School Musical" score will sing along with two of the movie's hottest numbers, "A Night to Remember" and the theme song, "High School Musical." (Source: Press Release, 10/24/08)
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Affordable Disney Books
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price. To check out the bargains, click here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?
With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more! Save at hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! For details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Luggage
Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Donna and I bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our daughter for Christmas for $144! Click here.
--------------------------------
Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock brokers that require you to purchase several shares of stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
=============================================
See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
October 29, 2008
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:
Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml
: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blogcontent to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!
: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN! Add to My MSN!
=================================================
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, WDW Good Neighbor Hotel special, Disney cruise line discounts, dining certificate special, and Orlando hotel FREE night deals
* News from around the "World" - Disney fairies open at Magic Kingdom
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about amazing new things happening in the cruise world
* Downtown Disney Becomes Lively Outdoor Gallery During Festival of the Masters, Nov. 7-9
* The Polar Express Experience Comes To SeaWorld For The Holidays
* High School Musical 3 Live Show Opens at Disney's California Adventure
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
4 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 58 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Discounts at Restaurants near Disney: This resource offers money saving dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando, near Walt Disney World, in Anaheim, near Disneyland California, and all across the US. Get $25 certificates for $2! Expires 10/31/08.
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from $899
* 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from $899
-------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Save 35% at this popular Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel! Beth writes: "I've seen this hotel and it's very close to Disney. You can't beat the price. Kids 12 and under always eat free. I'd give it a very solid 3 to 3.5 stars." Pet friendly. Free shuttle to the parks. Full service restaurant and food court. From $48 per night! Expires 01/15/09!
-------------------------------
FREE NIGHTS AT ORLANDO HOTELS
7 Orlando hotels offering one night FREE!
=================================================
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!
--------------------------------
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!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $299!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
--------------------------------
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.
--------------------------------
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
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
The whole family can dig in at Disney's T-Rex Cafe
At Walt Disney World, even the new employee medical clinic is bound to have a few Disney-like flourishes.
Crab Mac & Cheese recipe from The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
It's Tinker Bell's week with Magic Kingdom attraction opening and DVD release
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Universal bans hundreds of underage drinkers during Horror Nights
Jack Hanna, Shamu Christmas, Polar Express and more coming to SeaWorld
See Press Release below.
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
High School Musical 3 live show debuts at Disney’s California Adventure
Disneyland Resort Calendar
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, writes:
"I just finished the first of two webinars on the new Celebrity Solstice, debuting next month in Ft. Lauderdale. This is probably as good a time as any to let readers know about all the new developments in cruising since this type of vacation offers one of the best values available today. Cruises are also a fabulous family vacation opportunity, so if you've been to see The Mouse a few times you might be looking for a change of pace.
The Solstice is the first new ship for Celebrity in six years. There will be four ships in this new class, the next one being the Equinox due out next summer. These ships offer ten dining venues, real grass growing on the top deck (perfect for doing picnic lunches), and a whopping 85% of the cabins have balconies. Standard cabins are larger than most, and many have sofa and trundle beds to accommodate extra people in the cabin. Interestingly, during the design phase of these ships, the company consulted five women including a frequent cruiser, a travel agent, and someone who'd never cruised before to see what they were interested in. The result was some innovations that someone should have done years ago, like more storage space for luggage under the beds, a ledge in the shower for easier leg shaving, and fog-free mirrors. Connecting cabins also have a cool way of connecting both the rooms and the balconies that allows for more privacy as well as some flexibility. Celebrity is very comparable to Princess, a definite step up from Royal Caribbean and Carnival.
And speaking of Princess, the Ruby Princess also debuts next month. In fact, I'll be attending the 2-night 'cruise to nowhere' for the naming ceremony in about 10 days. (Can't wait!) One of the neat things about Princess ships is that, if you like one then you'll probably like them all. While the new classes of ships each have many new innovations, the line works hard to incorporate similarities so that those familiar with the line always feel right at home and can easily learn the layout of the ship. Princess does a fabulous job with their children's facilities as well as the teen centers, and their cabins and balconies have always seemed particularly spacious to me - especially if you book one of the numerous (and usually very affordable) minisuites. The Ruby Princess features Movies Under the Stars, a multitude of dining options, and the popular piazza dining, shopping and entertainment area in the atrium.
There's one ship, though, that I simply HAVE to bring up because if you love to cruise and think bigger is always better the Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is sure to please. In fact, it will give 'shock and awe' a whole new meaning. When she debuts in November 2009 she will be the largest passenger ship afloat, carrying 5,400 passengers. Announced just last week, the ship's Youth Zone is one of six 'neighborhoods' aboard and as far as I'm concerned it's high time someone FINALLY offered a full-blown nursery so parents with infants can really relax. (Disney ships have them, but the hours are very limited.) Aside from really cool (and very extensive) child and teen areas, the ship will have TWO flow riders (those surfing things you've seen on TV) as well as rock climbing, ice skating, zip lining and more. The atrium cabins with French windows that Voyager and Freedom class ships have will now boast full-fledged balconies overlooking the promenade which is lined with real trees and open to the sky above (so if it rains outside it will also rain INSIDE the ship). As fun and entertaining as these jumbo ships are for adults, if you have teens or 'tweens in your group they just can't be beat - and most of my clients with kids in that age group would agree with me that the ships are WAY better for those kids than Disney ships.
And yes, Disney is building new ships, too. We just don't have the details yet. Plenty of details out on the ones mentioned and others, though. For those that don't know, I started my travel career as a chief purser many, many moons ago and am a total cruise-aholic. I'm also a certified cruise specialist, so if Disney isn't working out for you - or you just need a change - let me know. I'd love to help you plan a great cruise vacation, and there are plenty of deals to be had these days!"
=================================================
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. (Source: Press Release, 10/27/08)
=================================================
The Polar Express Experience Comes To Seaworld For The Holidays
Orlando, Fla. - Jump aboard The Polar Express Experience when it rolls into SeaWorld this holiday season beginning Nov. 14, 2008 and continuing through Jan. 4, 2009. SeaWorld’s Wild Arctic transforms into the fabled Santa Town taking guests on a magical trip to the North Pole.
The Polar Express Experience is based on the Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment film, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal-winning children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. The Polar Express Experience is a heart-warming journey, where families share in the excitement and wonder of a truly unforgettable train ride. This enchanting experience will surround guests with the true spirit of the season through laughs, exciting thrills and special animal encounters.
The adventure unfolds on a Christmas Eve night with a young boy lying awake, eagerly listening for the sound of Santa’s ringing sleigh bells. As the boy gazes out his frosted bedroom window, a soft mist appears and just in that very moment, a roaring black train rumbles to a halt in front of the boy’s house. Filled with excitement and awe, the boy races out his front door, dashes across the freshly fallen snow and climbs aboard The Polar Express.
As the train’s whistle blows, guests embark on the same adventure as they board The Polar Express Experience to the North Pole. Classic scenes from the movie are recreated in a multi-sensory experience immersing passengers in special lighting, scent, sound and motion effects. Upon arrival guests find themselves within a winter wonderland surrounded by holiday cheer, graceful beluga whales, powerful polar bears and giant walruses. They will delight in the smell of Christmas cookies filling the air and bright lights glistening on a festive towering tree as families greet Santa and share in a magical moment.
Across the way, just as the winter air cools and the evening stars appear, families can join Shamu for a magnificent holiday show: "Shamu Christmas ... Miracles." This very special showing runs nightly beginning Nov. 12 and continues through Dec. 30, 2008. Shamu Stadium will illuminate with bright lights and glowing candles as Christmas carols adored and Shamu splashes to celebrate the holiday season.
While strolling around SeaWorld’s lake or through The Waterfront’s holiday-themed array of gift shops and restaurants, families can wander along a winter scene as glistening snow flurries fill the air. Guests can also experience "Christmastide" - a spectacular holiday fountain show where jewels of water and light adorn the night and dance to the merry musical sounds of Christmas. "Christmastide" begins Nov. 12 and runs through Dec. 25, 2008.
Igniting the spirit of the season is the "Makahiki Christmas Luau," a South Seas-style festive celebration including succulent island cuisine keeping with the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific Islands. Joyful songs of the season are reinterpreted with Polynesian rhythms, music and dance during this festive holiday celebration. "Makahiki Christmas Luau" begins Nov. 12, 2008 and continues through Jan. 4, 2009 (except Dec. 25). Park admission is not required. Prices are $46.00 plus tax for adults and $29.00 plus tax for children (ages 3-9)
Families can ring in the New Year at SeaWorld on Dec. 31 with a musical extravaganza including the best in pop, Latin and swing music. At the stroke of midnight, the evening sky will shine even brighter with a vibrant fireworks show to celebrate the festivities.
For Guest information, call 1 (888) 800-5447 or visit SeaWorld.com. (Source: Press Release, 10/24/08)
=================================================
'High School Musical 3' Live Show Opens at Disney's California Adventure
Fans of the "High School Musical" films will be able to join the fun as "High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!" premieres Oct. 24 at Disney’s California Adventure.
The new, interactive street show invites Guests to dance, sing along and celebrate the music of the new theatrical motion picture "High School Musical 3: Senior Year," which also debuts in theaters on Oct. 24.
Featuring a cast of 14 dynamic singers and dancers, the Disney show takes place on a traveling stage that creates a live-concert experience, complete with stacks of speakers and rows of lights. Entertainment featuring six new songs from the movie will draw guests into the streets of Disney’s California Adventure for an exciting, high-energy dance party.
Three shows will be perfomred daily at Sun Plaza, near the main entrance, and the Golden State Stage.
Teens and tweens who are big fans of the "High School Musical" score will sing along with two of the movie's hottest numbers, "A Night to Remember" and the theme song, "High School Musical." (Source: Press Release, 10/24/08)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 8:14 AM
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