Walt Disney World Facts

Tronorail or Tron Monorail Photo's

2010-03-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

Raglan Road Ger's Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe

2010-03-19T16:34:00.000-07:00

1 loaf   Pullman or Texas toast
1 lb   Kerry gold butter softened
1 lb   Sugar
1 qt   Crème anglaise (see below)
1 cup   Raisins soaked in Irish mist or water

Combine the sugar and butter, spread evenly on the bread slices to make sandwiches, stack together and cut of the crust.
Cut the “sandwiches in ½ on an angle (from corner to corner)
Butter the inside of 8 oven proof cups or preferred baking dish. One by one dip the “sandwiches” in the anglaise and place in the baking dish, layer the bread and a sprinkling of soaked raisins as you go until done
Bake covered in a Bain Marie at 375 degrees for 35 minutes until it rises a bit. Remove the cover and bake an extra 10 minutes until slightly brown.
Carefully remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly serve warm or at room temperature with anglaise and caramel sauce

Sauce Anglaise
6 each   Egg yolks
2 cups   Sugar
1 each   vanilla bean split or a teaspoon vanilla extract
1 qt   Heavy cream

Heat up the cream and the vanilla bean on the stove until it almost starts to boil. Meanwhile combine the egg yolks and sugar in a bowl and whisk well.
When the cream reaches the almost boiling point turn off and remove the pot from the flame. Temper the yolks, by ladling a small amount of cream to the bowl and mixing well. Then add the yolk sugar mixure to the cream, whisk well so that it does not curdle. Place over a low flame for 2 minutes whisking until it starts to thicken. Strain and allow to cool at room temperature.

Caramel sauce

½ lb   Bitter, chilled
½ lb   Brown sugar
1 cup   Heavy cream

Combine the sugar and butter in pot and cook over a medium high flame. Whish well to combine, when sugar is melted and it starts to boil turn off the stove, remove from the flame and whisk in the cream to combine. Allow to cool to room temperature.

Tomorrowland Noodle Station is open again for Dinner.

2010-03-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

The Tomorrowland Noddle Station is back open for spring break and most likely til Easter time. This is a very seasonal restaurant and only opens when the park gets crowded. We will keep you updated if it stays open later or close earlier then Easter.

Epcot Nine Dragons Review

2010-03-16T14:24:00.000-07:00

Nine Dragons – Epcot

Written by Steve Diehlman

Hidden in the colorful country of China, the Nine Dragons restaurant lies in the world showcase at Epcot. As one might expect, the restaurant features an assortment of classic Chinese cuisine.

With an average sized dining room, Nine Dragons is highlighted by a rather large front seating area facing the lagoon. If timed just right (unlike me), you might be able to catch Epcot’s nightly Illuminations fireworks display from the comfort of your dining table. Highlights of the décor include intricately carved Chinese woodwork paired with modern lighting.

Our dinner started off with a vegetable spring roll and pot sticker paired with a plum-chili dipping sauce. Usually more adventurous, I choose General Tso’s chicken for my main course. Though advertised as a spicy dish, my selection was rather mild which was ok with me. Others in my party decided on the Happy Family Duet entrée, consisting of stir fried beef and chicken paired with shrimp in a tangy red sauce. Someone in my group described this pick as “amazing,” and said they’d definitely return to experience it again.

Dessert options included ginger cake and strawberry red bean ice cream (basically strawberry ice cream). Opting for the cake, the choice was rather light and an excellent end to my meal. I found the portion sizes to be very reasonable, with nothing left on my plate yet not completely stuffed.

My party was comprised of five adults and two children, ages three and one. With dinner consisting of a ninety minute service, I wouldn’t recommend Nine Dragons to groups traveling with young children. I even found myself anxious at times, but was kept busy by the place mats teaching Mandarin Chinese script. Nine Dragons is best suited for groups of adults or couples.

Raglan Road's Shepherds Pie Recipe

2010-03-16T08:03:00.000-07:00

Shepherd’s Pie

½ lb Beef lean, ground

½ lb Lamb lean ground

1 tsp Olive oil

1 each Small Onion, minced

1 each Leek, minced

1 each Small Carrot, minced

1 tsp Tomato puree

1 cup Red wine

To Taste Salt and pepper

1 oz Parsley fresh, chopped

1 oz Thyme fresh, chopped

1 oz Rosemary fresh, chopped

1 lb Potatoes, washed, scrubbed and peeled

1 cup Milk

2 tsp Butter

Heat the oil and sauté the beef and the lamb in a pot over high heat
Add in the onions, leeks and carrots, season with salt and pepper and cook stirring for about 5 minutes
Add in the tomato paste stir well to make sure it is well combined
Add in the red wine, stir well and cook for 10 minutes
Add in the parsley, thyme and rosemary stir and cook for 2 more minutes
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed

For the potatoes

Cover the potatoes with water and a pinch of salt and bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until cooked yet firm; drain.

Place the potatoes trough a ricer to puree then add the hot milk and butter and season with a bit more salt if needed.

Using ring molds, place a fair amount of the minced meat in the middle of the plate and top with fresh mashed potatoes, remove the ring and garnish with fresh thyme leaves

If you haven't visited Raglan Road it's a Must when down in Walt Disney World there website is http://www.raglanroadirishpub.com

and also on twitter at

http://twitter.com/RaglanRoadPub

Studio Catering Co. New Signage and Menu

2010-03-12T13:12:00.000-08:00

At Disney's Hollywood Studio's the Studio Catering Co. received a minor facelift with some new signage and new Menu. Here are some of the Photo's that Paul Chadkin was nice enough to let us show our followers.

To follow Paul Chadkin and his tweets you can find him at www.twitter.com/PaulChadkin

Ohana Restaurant’s Coriander Wings From Disney’s Polynesian Resort

2010-03-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

Yield: 4 servings.

4 pounds chicken wings and drummettes
1/8 cup wing seasoning (see note)
1/2 cup coriander wing sauce (see note)
2 tablespoons canola oil
Sesame seeds and watercress for garnish

1. Heat oven to 400 F.
2. Put chicken, wing seasoning and oil in large bowl. Mix well. Place chicken on nonstick, foil-lined cookie sheet. Bake until thickest part of the chicken reaches 165 F.
3. While chicken bakes, warm coriander wing sauce. Toss cooked wings in sauce and serve hot. Garnish with sesame seeds and watercress.
Wing seasoning: Combine 2 tablespoons Kosher salt, 2 tablespoons ground paprika, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Coriander wing sauce: In nonstick pot, simmer 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon ground coriander, 1/2 cup soy sauce and 1 cup honey. Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water. When mixture begins to thicken slightly, add cornstarch mixture. Stir until sauce thickens nicely.

17th Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Photo's

2010-03-05T11:27:00.000-08:00

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The 17th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival kicked off on March 3 – earlier than ever – and continues for 75 days through May 16, 2010, with bold strokes of seasonal color and brand-new topiary whimsy. Last year’s festival began March 18; now Walt Disney World guests get a head start on the gardening season as they explore exhibits and activities geared toward discovery and outdoor fun.

Click Read More Below.....
Even before spring has sprung, Donald Duck and his topiary pals set up camp in full floral color to celebrate the Great Outdoors at the Epcot front entrance. The elaborate topiary with a North American theme, live waterfall and pond features Goofy in a fly-fishing misadventure, Daisy Duck roasting marshmallows over a campfire and Pluto in his “pup tent.” It’s a must-stop photo op for guests as soon as they pass through the park turnstiles. Packing more floral punch this year, the festival showcases more than 100 expertly crafted topiaries – including a new Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse topiary among a bed of flowers and vegetables in an “American Gothic” parody located at World Showcase Plaza.

“The advantage of starting earlier is that we’ll be able to feature more brilliant color than ever, with richly hued petunias, violas, snapdragons and other hardy flowers,” says festival horticulture manager Eric Darden. “By starting earlier and going through mid-May, it allows more guests than ever to experience the festival and to plan ahead for their spring and summer gardening.”

I also want to thank a couple people for contributing photo's for this blog. If it wasn't for them these great work's of art wouldn't be able to shown to our fans. You can find there photo's at

http://www.flickr.com/photos/catherineford/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/blueprint_disney

and Ron Ballentine for emailing me photo's.

Leave comment's to let us know what you thought about the article.

Fast Facts about the 17th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

2010-02-20T13:36:00.000-08:00

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Thirty million blooms, half a million plants, 60 tons of topiary and 600 butterflies add up to a wonderful world of theme park color at the 17th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, March 3-May 16 at Walt Disney World Resort. Among this year’s fun festival facts:

30 million blooms blanket the park throughout the festival, which runs 75 colorful days.

More than 100 topiaries displayed throughout the park add up to 60 tons of plant materials.
Click on Read More Below

More than 70 Disney character topiaries represent the largest collection of Disney character topiary in the world and include classic film stars like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pluto, Cinderella and Tinker Bell.

At 14 feet tall, Goofy is the tallest character topiary ever created.

600 native butterflies, more than ever before, represent up to 10 species at Fawn’s Butterfly House, a gazebo-type screened enclosure filled with lush plants where guests can view the colorful butterflies. Among the garden’s two dozen nectar plants are Cape Royal plumbago, passion flower, coral honeysuckle, blazing star, butterfly bush, scarlet milkweed and canna lily.

More than 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs are planted for the festival; 250,000

of those are annual blossoms installed for the festival.

Festival plants include 60 different species of trees, 47 types of palms, and 48 varieties of bedding plants.

At least 25 different plants, grasses and mosses of various colors, including pink and red begonias, dusty miller, palm fiber, palm seeds, ficus and lichen, are used to create and define features of the festival topiaries. More color has been added to the topiaries than in any previous topiary presentation.

More than 15 floral, herbal and spice ingredients of 10 popular perfumes are revealed in the Fragrance Garden presented by Guerlain at the France pavilion. Guests can sniff the enduring fragrance Shalimar to discover botanical notes that include lemon, Arabian jasmine and vanilla. Some components of nine other Guerlain fragrances include mimosa, magnolia, rose, nutmeg and vetivergrass.

198 hands-on gardening demonstrations and seminars will be presented.

Forty-four “flower towers” of impatiens line Innoventions Plaza.

120 floating mini-gardens, each three feet in diameter, of multi-hued impatiens provide splashes of color on two ponds that border the walkway between Future World and World Showcase.

700 container gardens of flowers, herbs, plants and vegetables in clay pots, barrels and urns enhance the landscape throughout Epcot.

600 Walt Disney World horticulturists are needed to install the festival landscape, topiaries and many exhibits; 100 Epcot horticulturists maintain topiaries and other festival displays.

It takes more than one full year and about 24,000 cast member hours to prepare for the annual festival.

The festival’s weekend Flower Power concert series includes 11 artists and groups with 126 Top 40 hits, including 16 No. 1 songs. This year’s musical hit-makers from the 1960s and '70s include Jose Feliciano, Paul Revere & The Raiders, David Cassidy, Starship featuring Mickey Thomas, Tony Orlando, Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone, Ricky Nelson Remembered Featuring the Nelsons, Atlanta Rhythm Section, Fran Cosmo, Davy Jones, and Chubby Checker & The Wildcats.

Guest information for the 17thannual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available at www.disneyworld.com/flower or call 1-407-W-DISNEY.

Splash Mountain Refurb Photo's

2010-02-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Disney Lori and Alex Goldman we are able to bring you photo's of the Splash Mountain Refurbishment. Splash Mountain closed the first week in January and should be opened back up on or around February 27th. But they picked a good time for it to be down being that the temperature has been unusually low.

If you want to see other great photo's they take visit them at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/43153185@N00/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/agoldman/

Disney's Wide World of Sports re-branded to ESPN Wide World of Sports

2010-02-19T08:38:00.000-08:00

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Aligning the world’s No. 1 family vacation destination with the worldwide leader in sports, Walt Disney World Resort and ESPN have joined forces to re-brand Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex with the ESPN brand. This partnership will take youth sports to a new level by creating an entertaining and immersive experience for the nearly 2 million athletes, coaches and spectators who come through the Disney sports complex each year.

Click Read More below

The project incorporates the signature elements of ESPN throughout the 220-acre facility, which will be renamed ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex starting Feb. 25, 2010. The project aims to take youth sports to the next level by enhancing the experience of athletes and spectators, making them feel like they’ve reached the big time, while also connecting them to their favorite ESPN programs, personalities and elements. It also will provide advertisers new sponsorship opportunities at the grass-roots level.

“Our involvement in the Disney sports complex will provide greater opportunities for us to connect directly with athletes, coaches and fans in a highly immersive way,” said George Bodenheimer, president of ESPN Inc. and ABC Sports, and co-chairman of Disney Media Networks. “Our involvement also provides us with a unique and exciting new media platform that will enable our advertisers and sponsors to reach new customers and bring their products and services to life.”

The re-branding of the Disney sports complex is the latest initiative in the growing sports business at Walt Disney World Resort. In late 2007, the sports complex added additional outdoor playing fields for football, soccer, lacrosse and field hockey competitions. And in 2008, the sports complex opened Jostens Center, a state-of-the-art field house that allows Disney to accommodate twice as many indoor sports events each year. Additional expansion ideas are in development, including a planned state-of-the-art bowling facility.

Disney Sports annually stages more than 250 events and has accommodated approximately 60 different sports involving athletes from more than 70 countries. Among those events are the Atlanta Braves spring training season, Chelsea Football Club events, the Pop Warner Super Bowl, AAU National Championships, Varsity Cheer events, the World Cheerleading Championships, USSSA events and the Walt Disney World Marathon, one of the top marathons in the nation. ESPN televises more than 20 sporting events from the complex, and Walt Disney World Resort and ESPN also annually work together to host the popular ESPN The Weekend event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Variety of Sports

Adventure Racing
Archery
Badminton
Baseball
Basketball
Bass Fishing
BMX Racing
Bowling
Boxing
Canine Agility
Cheerleading
Cricket
Cross Country
Dance
Dodge Ball
Dragon Boat
Fast Pitch Softball
Fencing
Field Hockey
Flag Football
Foot Bag
Football
Golf
Gymnastics
Ice Hockey
In Line Hockey
In Line Skating
Judo
Jump Rope
Karate
Lacrosse
Marathon
Martial Arts
Paintball
Powerlifting
Rugby
Running
Slow Pitch
Soccer
Softball
Surfing
Table Tennis
Tae-Kwon-Do
Team Handball
Tennis
Track & Field
Trampoline & Tumbling
Triathlon
Twirl
Volleyball
Wake Boarding
Walking
Water Skiing
Weightlifting
Wrestling

And More...

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Review

2010-02-10T04:37:00.000-08:00

By: Heather Leigh Carroll-Landon

The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater is one of the best restaurants to eat at for kids of all ages. No matter how old, everyone loves the rich shakes, the 50s drive-in theater atmosphere and the mouth watering cuisine. That is why this restaurant is one of the first to be reviewed for my dining guide of Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater offers themed dining taking guests back to the 50’s as they sit in a vintage convertible table and enjoy classic sci-fi, monster and horror movies from the 50s and 60s. Large movie screens surround the dining area of the restaurant, giving each guest prime seating for watching one of the movies. Bring back memories while watching the movie under the stars that fill the night sky above. It is always night in the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater.

To start off make sure to order one of the thick and rich shakes in strawberry, chocolate or vanilla. It is definitely a must have over anything else on the menu. For those over 21 experience a mad scientist delight with a cosmic concoctions. Enjoy a shake with Baileys Irish Cream, a perfect combination.

The menu offers burgers, sandwiches, ribs, seafood, pasta, steak and salads with meals ranging from $15 to $36 per person for lunch or dinner. My recommendation is to order the Italian Grilled Chicken Sandwich for lunch. The seasoning and side was just enough to satisfy my hunger and still leave room for dessert. The sandwich was topped with Bruschetta and was served on a Kaiser Roll. I was a bit nervous at first to try it with the Bruschetta topping (not sure if I would like it), but when it arrived all worries went away. Disney sure knows how to had a flavor twist to a traditional sandwich. I never had a sandwich like this before, but know for sure I will order it again.

My dinner recommendation is the Shrimp Pasta, but I love both of those ingredients, so I could not go wrong with this order. The bow-tie pasta, shrimp, artichoke hearts and other ingredients was the perfect dinner. My mouth watered throughout the entire meal.

Though I did not have dessert when I was there the last time, the peanut-butter cake look absolutely decadent. I may have to try it next time.
As usual, the service was excellent. In true Walt Disney World fashion, the server was attentive and helped keep the atmosphere feel authentic. I will definitely go back.

Go back to my dining guide to see the full lunch, dinner and dessert menus for the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater.

The restaurant is located at the Backlot area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Advanced Dining Reservations are highly recommended, but not required, for this location and can be made by calling 407.WDW.DINE.

And please follow the author of this article at http://twitter.com/WDWTravelExam

We follow her and so should you if you want to get great tips about Walt Disney World.

If you enjoyed this article go to the original article it can be found at http://www.examiner.com/x-1712-Walt-Disney-World-Travel-Examiner~y2010m2d1-Walt-Disney-World-Travel-Examiners-Dining-Guide-SciFi-DineIn-Theater

One of the Hidden Gems at Epcot: Club Cool

2010-01-16T19:51:00.000-08:00

By Matt Correia

There are many hidden gems in all the Walt Disney World theme parks: places you never noticed before, or always thought “I’ll do that next time”. Unfortunately, these little details and hidden coves can sometimes be of great value.
Take Epcot’s Club Cool, for instance. People have spent the whole day at Epcot – it’s in the middle of the afternoon, everyone is sweating and just dying for some shade. Yet in all of their misery, they seem to always pass up Club Cool. Why? They don’t know what it is, and don’t care to take the time to find out.
Little do they know, inside this building are fountains and fountains of all different carbonated beverages from around the world – just waiting for them – for free, and with unlimited refills. And being in the sun all day, it’s wonderful.
Disney was so smart in the placement of this. It’s in the biggest “intersection” of the whole park for all to enjoy – right at the crossroads of a way into and out of World Showcase, and also Future World.
So next time you visit Epcot, be sure to walk towards that big fountain (can’t miss it) and check out Club Cool. Get some refreshments, relax, cool off, get hydrated – then go back out for your next Disney adventure. What are some of the hidden gems you’ve found? Share with me!

Make sure to follow the Author of this article on Twitter at http://twitter.com/tcwmatt

And His blog can be found at http://wdwcentral.wordpress.com/

4 Parks, 4 Days for a $99 Deal at Walt Disney World (Florida Residents)

2010-01-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

If you're a Florida Resident to get into Walt Disney World it will only cost you $99 for a 4 parks and 4 day pass. Even if you are not a Florida resident you should check out this cool commercial.

As it Once Was: A look into WDW’s past Project X

2010-01-12T12:04:00.000-08:00

By Tyler Enboden
http://twitter.com/TheCurrentMouse

If you look back into past of the Disney Company you can often find the most interesting stories of what once was, compared to what it is now. The biggest of these changes is 27,000 acres of farm and swap land that in the late 60’s became property of the Disney Company. This area today is now a thriving world with 4 themed lands, 2 water parks, 32 resorts, and plenty of land to expand on. The most interesting story to tell about Disney world is how all this land was acquired without anyone knowing.

In 1955 Disneyland opened its doors and started a successful legacy of Disney theme parks. All together Disneyland was only on 300 acres of land, with little to no room to expand. When Disney first purchased the land in Anaheim, it was nothing more than various orange groves and Lemon trees (which I might add explains why in the fall and early winter you see lemons growing in the park). By the time Disneyland was complete all the surrounding land was bought up by various companies to place hotel, restaurants, and souvenir shops in. While Disney’s original idea for a park was complete he was upset that he would not have the ability to control the surrounding area.
(Click Read More)

In the midst of an ever going expansion to the Disneyland Park, Walt set out on a secret project referred to as Project X (known now as Project Florida). During the early 60’s Walt and his team started scouting out land all over the nation. The goal was to find enough land to expand on Walt’s original vision and be able to in a way govern the surrounding area. Many of these trips were taken in Walt’s private jet (jet N234MM), which is on display in the Back lot tour behind the lights, motor, action show.

After looking at potential locations such as St. Louis and the Great Smokey Mountains, Walt’s team stumbled upon a large plot of land in central Florida. The land was chosen due to its close connection to the I4 interstate. After deciding on this location the team slowly and secretly purchased 27,000 acres, about 43 square miles, of farm and swamp property. To give you an idea of how much land was actually purchased think about this: The property is twice the size of Manhattan Island and the same size of San Francisco. Knowing that the land would drastically increase in price if anyone knew Disney was buying the property, Walt bought the land using various aliases. Some of these “companies” included Retlaw Enterprises (Walter spelled backwords), Ayefour Corporation (a pun for Interstate 4) and M. T. Lot (get it? Empty lot). The largest plots of land were purchased using the name Latin American Development and Management Corporation, and Reedy Creek Ranch Corporation (which by the way is a great Disney radio talk and music stream online). The average cost per acre was $180 making the total purchase just over 5 million. Working with the state of Florida’s government Walt was able to establish an agreement of self governing power over the land (including being tax Exempt!).

By 1965 Rumors were flying about a secret project in the work in central Florida that got the medias attention. Many reporters guessed that companies such as Ford were planning on building a major factory. On October 20, 1965 the truth was finally out. The Orlando Sentinel newspaper reported that the Company buying all the land was in fact the Walt Disney Company. The article written by Emily Bavar, 'We Say: "Mystery" Industry Is Disney" mentions that the reports were unofficial but she comments that Walt was not a very good liar when it came to her asking him directly. Due to this unexpected press leak, the price per acre skyrocketed up over 1000%. Walt bought his first acre of land for $80 and his last for$ 80,000. On November 15, 1965 Disney held a press conference to officially announce the plans for a vacation retreat that would include theme parks, resort hotels, Golf Courses and his city of the future. Walt promised that 7,000 acres of this land would always remain in its natural state. To this day over 9,000 acres are still in their natural state.

A very interesting fact about this massive development and expansion was that Disney did not go a single dollar into debt. With such a diverse ownership of companies and the constant rise of great Disney animation, Walt Disney was able to lay the foundation for what we all know and love today. On October 1, 1971 Roy O. Disney dedicated Walt Disney world by saying this:

“Walt Disney world is a tribute to the Philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney…and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney’s dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring joy and inspiration and new knowledge to all who come to this happy place…a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages laugh, and play, and learn-together”

I don’t know about you but that’s exactly how I feel every time I walk down main street to leave the land of today and enter the lands of adventure, fantasy, and a great big beautiful tomorrow.

Make sure you follow the author of this article at http://twitter.com/TheCurrentMouse

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival begins earlier than ever this year on March 3, 2010

2010-01-12T08:21:00.000-08:00

By Heather Leigh Carroll-Landon

http://twitter.com/WDWTravelExam

It is hard to believe it is almost that time again. Time for the 17th Annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. It seems like only yesterday when the park was filled with the smell of roses and fluttering butterflies. Maybe it only feels that way because this year Walt Disney World has moved the date of the festival up.

The festival this year will begin on March 3, 2010, the earliest date ever, and will continue for 75 days through May 16, 2010. (Last year's event started on March 18.) The earlier start of the festival will hopefully help garden fanatics get a jump-start on the gardening season.

Guests of the festival will be able to stroll through luscious gardens, explore vendor exhibits and enjoy many activities surrounding one theme - gardening. The best thing about last year's event was the array of topiaries featuring the many Disney animated characters.
(Click read more)

Last year's grand topiary was the Cinderellabration, featuring Cinderella and all of the other Princesses and their pals. This year Donald Duck will be hosting the Great Outdoors at the entrance to Epcot, which is a topiary display with a North American theme. This display will feature a live waterfall, a pond, Goofy fly-fishing, Daisy Duck roasting marshmallows and Pluto in his tent. If you enter through the International Gateway at the back of the park, make sure to head up to the front because this is a photo op not to miss.

In addition to moving the date up, Disney has a few new surprises that will be added to this year's festival. Check out some of the ones that have been released:
· Bambi's Butterfly House - this is supposed to be twice the size of Minnie's Magnificent Butterfly Garden.
· New Victory Garden - featuring the fab five in topiary form.
· Newly expanded pixie Hollow Fairy Garden.
· First-Ever American Gothic Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse - topiary scene based on the 1930 Grant Wood Painting.

Annual festival highlights include:
· Flower Power Concert Series - Jose Feliciano is kicking off the event March 5-7.
· Disney Gardening at Home presentations - learn from Disney's Horticulture Team.
· The Great American Gardeners series - learn from celebrity gardeners.
· The Garden Town Festival Center - merchandise and special speaker location.
· Special Festival Celebrations - Art in the Garden, Florida's Farmers Market and I Dig Bugs celebrations.

There are so many things to do at this year's International Flower and Garden Festival it is no wonder why they have moved the date up.

For additional information about the festival call 407.W.Disney. Regular theme park admission is required.

If you enjoyed this article go to the original article it can be found at http://www.examiner.com/x-1712-Walt-Disney-World-Travel-Examiner~y2010m1d10-Epcot-Flower-and-Garden-Festival-begins-earlier-than-ever-this-year-on-March-3-2010

And please follow the author of this article at http://twitter.com/WDWTravelExam

We follow her and so should you if you want to get great tips about Walt Disney World.

Mark those calendars for upcoming Walt Disney World events

2010-01-09T05:59:00.000-08:00

By Heather Leigh Carroll-Landon

http://twitter.com/WDWTravelExam

Walt Disney World is home to many activities throughout the year. Everything from endurance sports to eating around the world. Guests can experience whatever their vacation hearts desire. Check out some of the upcoming events planned at Disney World throughout 2010.

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

Scheduled this upcoming weekend is the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Runners of all endurance levels participate in one of the largest marathon events in the area Jan. 7-10.

For detailed information visit Disney World Sports, which includes all other sporting events at Disney World.

ESPN The Weekend

Sports lovers do not miss this weekend at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Guests will have a chance to interact with some of their favorite sports figures, including questions and answer sessions, autograph opportunity and a trivia filled race.

ESPN The Weekend will run fro Feb. 26-28, 2010 with the 5K race running the morning of Feb. 27, 2010. (Click read more below)

Atlanta Braves Spring Training

Check back for more details about the Atlanta Braves Spring Training at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in March 2010.

Disney Princess Half Marathon

Take part in this fun filled half marathon where participants can take a rest and pose with their favorite Prince or Princess. The popularity of this event just seems to increase each year with more participants and spectators making their way to Walt Disney World.

The Disney Princess Half Marathon will take place March 5-7, 2010.

International Flower and Garden Festival

The International Flower and Garden Festival is one of the best home shows around and includes the magic of Disney. Experience gardens galore at Epcot from March 3 (earliest date ever) and run through May 16, 2010.

Star Wars Weekends

Blast off to a galaxy far, far away with the characters from the Star Wars saga. Meet and greets, autograph sessions and so much more is offered during this out of this world event at Disney Hollywood Studios.

Dates for Star Wars Weekends are: May 21-23, May 28-30, June 4-6 and June 11-13.

International Food and Wine Festival

This popular event returns to Epcot in 2010 and will continue to immerse guests in food cultures from around the world. Check back for more details.

The International Food and Wine Festival will run from Oct. 1 through Nov. 14, 2010.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is held on select nights in Autumn from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Magic Kingdom Park. Check back later in the year for more details.

Old Spice Classic

Get pumped up watching eight teams compete for the title of Old Spice Classic Champion. Teams from Notre Dame, Temple, Boston College, California, Georgia, Manhattan and Wisconsin will travel to the newly re-imaged ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Nov. 25, 26 and 28, 2010.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Holidays Around the World

More to come…dates vary in December. Check back for details as more develop.

For additional information about any of these events call 407.W.Disney.

If you enjoyed this article go to the original article it can be found at http://www.examiner.com/x-1712-Walt-Disney-World-Travel-Examiner~y2010m1d5-Mark-those-calendars-for-upcoming-Walt-Disney-World-events

And please follow the author of this article at http://twitter.com/WDWTravelExam

We follow her and so should you if you want to get great tips about Walt Disney World.

Indoor attractions offer a warm welcome for Walt Disney World visitors braving the cold temperatures

2010-01-08T11:44:00.000-08:00

By Heather Leigh Carroll-Landon

http://twitter.com/WDWTravelExam

There are many indoor activities to enjoy at Walt Disney World that will help keep guests warm as they suffer through the chilling temperature Central Florida is currently experiencing. Temperatures are dipping into the low 40s and even lower in some areas. Keeping warm sometimes becomes a mission while trying to enjoy the shorter lines and minimal crowds at the theme parks this time of year.

What are some of the best indoor attractions at Walt Disney World that will have the heat on for guests? Check some of them out below.

Magic Kingdom

There are many indoor shows to help warm up the blood while wandering through the Magic Kingdom Park. Warm shows include The Enchanted Tiki Room, The Hall of Presidents and Mickey's Philharmagic. If not interested in seeing some of the shows, check out the following indoor rides: Peter Pan's Flight, Snow White's Scary Adventure, Winnie the Pooh, it's a small world, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin.

Theme Park Warmth Tip #1: While at the Magic Kingdom Park (or any of the others) do not forget to drink lots of hot chocolate to warm up. Hot cocoa at Disney World is the best! (Click Read More)

Epcot

There are lots of attractions at Epcot that are indoors including two of the longest (time wise) ride at the park - Spaceship Earth and Ellen's Energy Adventure. Guests can also warm up while riding Journey Into Your Imagination or while watching the shows available at The Land Pavilion, the China Pavilion and Canada's Pavilion.

Theme Park Warmth Tip #3: Need to warm up quick? Duck into one of the many bathrooms at all four of the theme parks. During this time of year Disney really runs the heat in their bathrooms and are definitely a great place for a quick warm up.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Many shows at Disney's Hollywood Studios are indoors making it a great park to keep warm. Enjoy The Great Movie Ride, Playhouse Disney, Toy Story Mania, American Idol Experience, Little Mermaid, Star Tours, Muppet 3*D and a few other indoor shows.

Theme Park Warmth Tip #4: Been outside too long and extremely cold? Take time out of the day and enjoy a long meal at one of the many heated restaurants.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

There are many indoor shows at Disney's Animal Kingdom, including It's Tough to Be a Bug and Finding Nemo the Musical. However, this is not a winter theme park experience recommended by the Walt Disney World Travel Examiner, due to the face that many attractions are outside. For those willing to bear the cold weather, this is a great time to visit Animal Kingdom because there are almost no lines, anywhere in the park.

Theme Park Warmth Tip #4: Skip the theme parks all together and head on over the DisneyQuest, where guests can enjoy five stories of video game entertainment inside.

For additional information about Walt Disney World call 407.W.Disney. To get an accurate update of the weather at the theme parks visit Weather Bug and enter zip code 32830. The weather station is located that the top of the Disney Swan and Dolphin Resorts

If you enjoyed this article go to the original article it can be found at http://www.examiner.com/x-1712-Walt-Disney-World-Travel-Examiner~y2010m1d5-Indoor-activities-offer-a-warm-welcome-for-Walt-Disney-World-visitors-braving-the-cold-temperatures

And please follow the author of this article at http://twitter.com/WDWTravelExam

We follow her and so should you if you want to get great tips about Walt Disney World.

Boma's Curry Butternut Soup Recipe and Review

2010-01-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

By: Kristen Hoetzel of “Cooking with Mickey”

Curry Butternut Soup from Boma at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Recipe found in Delicious Disney by Pam Brandon (2006). This item is served during lunch and dinner hours on their buffet and is located with about 4 or 5 other delicious soups.

I recently spent an evening with a close friend of mine and her charming husband. Whenever we get together on a weeknight we tend to make something new and exciting for dinner. For us, it's like our own mini dinner party. Since it's fall and heading into the cold winter months I arrived at her house with the ingredients to make Curry Butternut Soup. Butternut squash is one of those comfort foods that I crave on a cold and cloudy, crisp day and I thought it would be something they'd enjoy.

Boma's Curry Butternut Soup is a lot like other butternut squash soups. It's rich, smooth and creamy. The twist to this recipe from many others is that instead of the more traditional ingredients like nutmeg and cinnamon it calls for Thai red curry, cumin and coriander. Since there were three of us dining and the soup was to be our entree I tripled the recipe. If I had made it in the quantity that the recipe calls for it would have been enough for everyone to have one small bowl better suited for a starter than a meal. I really enjoyed this recipe and it did taste very similar to what I had tried over at Boma a couple of months earlier. As for the flavor, the curry in the soup adds a nice kick but isn't overpowering due to the cooling effects of the milk and sour cream. On word of advice, when chopping the butternut squash I recommend making the cubes small as the larger they are the longer it will take for them to cook.

I highly recommend trying this recipe. Whether you'll be serving it as an appetizer or an entree this is a delicious soup. One that would be perfect to start off a festive holiday meal like Thanksgiving or Christmas. If you will be drinking wine with this something light, white and with a hint of tropical fruit would be perfect.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 tbs butter

1 medium onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

Juice of 2 fresh lemons

2 tsp Thai red curry paste

1 lb butternut squash peeled, seeded and cut into chunks

2 cups vegetable stock

2 cups milk

4 tbs sour cream

Coarse salt and pepper, to taste

Melt butter in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic and cook about 5 minutes, until tender.

Add cumin, coriander, lemon juice and curry paste.

Add squash and vegetable stock. Simmer about 20 minutes, or until squash is easily pierced with a fork

Puree soup in batches until smooth. Add salt and pepper to tast.

Return to heat and add milk and sour cream. Do not boil.

Adjust seasoning, if necessary. Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.

Cilantro for garnish

Kristen Hoetzel of “Cooking with Mickey”

http://cookingwithmickey.blogspot.com/

http://www.twitter.com/cookin_w_mickey

Make sure if you enjoyed this review visit Kristen's Blog in the link above. And also make sure you add her to follow her on twitter. I follow her and so should you.

Disney's Tilt-shift video's huge hit

2009-12-23T18:17:00.000-08:00

Disney's Tilt-shift video's are a huge hit with Disney World Fanatics. We thought we would post them all on this blog to show you the three they have come out with so far. Plus once you watch the one you know you will want to watch the rest.. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Walt Disney World's Detailed Trash Cans

2009-11-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

When in Walt Disney World's theme parks and resorts have you ever taken notice to the detail that goes into there trash cans. They are part of the the show that they put on to make sure every area fits a certain theme even down to the smallest detail and that includes there trash cans. Here are a bunch of photo's taken by Jessica AKA "FigmentFan84" on Flickr.
Push for Mayor

Osborne Spectacle of Lights

River Country

Tower of Terror

Mickey's Toontown Fair

Innovention's

France

FantasyLand

Cinderella's Castle

Columbia Harbour House

Swan and Dolphin Resort area

Boardwalk Resort area

Chester's and Hester's area

Disney's Hollywood Studio's

Polynesian Resort area

Main Street USA

World Showcase Area

Fort Wilderness Area

Liberty Square area

If you would like to see more of these Trash cans visit FigmentFan84's site at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/7945637@N07/

Alex Goldman's Grand Floridian Gingerbread House Update

2009-11-22T12:38:00.000-08:00

Alex Goldman recently took a visit to Disney's Grand Floridian to see the Gingerbread House being put together. This is the 11th year that the chefs at Walt Disney World have put together the World Famous Gingerbread house to sell delicious treats from daily. If you haven't been to the Grand Floridian to see this wonderful Gingerbread house it's worth the trip. And if you cannot make it I hope you enjoy this blog.

Alex Goldman's Photo's can be found online at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/agoldman/
make sure you stop by to check out his work.

Alex Goldman update of the Magic Kingdom's Holiday decorations

2009-11-14T05:18:00.000-08:00

Alex Goldman went to the Magic Kingdom earlier this week and we are posting these great photo's to show everyone the updates at the Kingdom. The Magic Kingdom always looks great during the Holiday's and as always its dressed up perfect for the season. We hope you enjoy these photo's and if you have a chance drop by the park to see how festive it is.

This view never gets old

Candy Cane anyone?

Alex Goldman's Photo's can be found online at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/agoldman/
make sure you stop by to check out his work.

Update: Monorail Teal Photo's

2009-11-12T09:29:00.000-08:00

By Alex Goldman

Alex our Wdwfacts official Fan Photographer did a great job a couple days ago getting great photo's of the Teal Monorail from the Contemporary Resort. Here are a few I think you will enjoy and the views are great also.

Great View of Space Mountain and the Monorail.

Bay Lake Tower

Nice close up view from the Contemporary Resort

Peekaboo

Thanks again to Adam Goldman for his wonderful photo's.
Here is a link to his flickr account to see other wonderful photo's.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/agoldman/collections/

Liberty Tree Tavern Pot Roast Review

2009-10-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

By: Kristen Hoetzel

New England Pot Roast

New England Pot Roast from the Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Tree Tavern. Recipe found in Cooking with Mickey and the Disney Chefs by Pam Brandon (2004). This item is served during lunch hours on their a la carte menu and is one of the most popular dishes.

I was trying to decide on what to make for an episode of Cooking With Mickey, a how-to video of Disney recipes when I came across this recipe. Growing up in the north with cold winters we always had pot roasts. They are one of those staple comfort foods when it’s cold. I thought this would be a great recipe to do considering at the time fall was just a couple months away.

Disney’s Liberty Tree Tavern New England Pot Roast is really very much like every other pot roast. It has the standard carrots, celery, onions and broth. One difference is that it does call burgundy wine. Some recipes call for this but not most. I like the addition of the wine as it adds a nice depth to the dish. Overall I thought the recipe was really good. The roast picked up the flavor of the garlic, wine and thyme which was nice. The only problem that I found with the recipe was the cook like. It says to back for 40 minutes to an hour. This was clearly not the correct cook time. When removed from the oven at this point it’s cooked but very tough. In order to get that tender, juicy, stick-a-fork-in-it-fall-to-pieces roast it has to be cooked 3 ½ to 4 hours.

I highly recommend trying this recipe but instead cooking it the suggested cook time add another 2-3 hours until it’s tender. If you happen to have a crock-pot you might want to try cooking the roast in it. By using the crock pot you won’t heat up your kitchen (which is great in summer months) and it gives you the freedom to leave your house without fear of a fire. It’s a great time saving and efficient way to prepare a meal.

Kristen Hoetzel of “Cooking with Mickey”
http://cookingwithmickey.blogspot.com/
http://www.twitter.com/cookin_w_mickey

I'd like to say thank you very much to Kristen a new blogger to our site. Please add her twitter site to see some of her other great reviews of Walt Disney World Recipes.

The Sum of All Thrills

2009-10-21T10:38:00.000-07:00

By Kyle Rupinski

Epcot's The Sum of All Thrills is towards the back of the Innoventions building on the right. After the short pre-show detailing how the company behind the ride (Raytheon) and how to build your coaster, you move to the "Design Lab" where touch screen table tops help you build your coaster. There are lots of choices for your coaster, starting with "Bobsled" "Roller coaster" and "Jet" (bobsled is the mildest, jet is the wildest). From there, you have four parts of your coaster to build, and with each part you get four different track pieces to choose from. This is where the physics comes in. You are given an interactive ruler & knob to control how high you coaster goes and how fast it goes. BUT if it's too high, too fast, or too slow physically, you will have to fine tune your dimensions.

After choosing finishing your coaster, you name it and swipe your card. From here, you go up to the simulators. These alone are very cool. They look like a giant robot arm with two seats at the end. A cast member will put all of your belongings in a locker, and upload your coaster to the simulator. Once seated, a hood gets pulled down over your seat. In this hood there is HD video & sound, a small fan, and a camera, so either the person you are riding with or the cast member can watch you.

The simulators are very realistic, and they definitely mimic things like high speeds, bends, and loops well. At the end of your ride, they factor in a few things and come up with your "Sum" of your thrills. I thought I managed to max everything out and received a score of 936 one ride, though a cast member told me the highest they've seen was 1200.

All of this may sound nearly identical to the roller coaster builder at Disney Quest. Though it is very similar, this ride is a lot more modern and high tech, making it a cooler ride. It will probably stay as a very little wait ride for now, though it has the potential for having a very long line (long pre-show, waiting for people to make their coasters, only four simulators). It's certainly something to check out, however.

Fountain of Nations

2009-10-21T10:29:00.001-07:00

Do you enjoy the Fountain of Nations at Epcot? Here is a new video that was posted on youtube by attractions magazine. There are two songs used during the performance. One is from the Rocketeer and the second song is from Yanni and its called "Standing in Motion" I hope you enjoy this video as much as I did.

Kyle Rupinski Park update for 10-9 and 10-10-09

2009-10-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

Work walls and scaffolding are up in Fantasyland, mostly around Mrs. Pott's Cupboard. It's unclear if this is just scheduled maintenance on the Exterior or part of the recently announced Fantasyland refurbishment.

Space Mountain still has a lot going on, though it seems more work is being done outside. Worker's were hanging the "VIDEO ARCADE" sign, painting walls, and working around the main entrance and fast pass distribution areas. Workers were also working on a building across from Space Mountain (though it was probably a restroom area). There is still no pavement in front of the ride.

I took a ride on the Tomorrowland Transit Authority, and noticed they changed the narration. Now they just talk about the rides in Tomorrowland, and features voice overs by Buzz Lightyear, Mickey Mouse, Stitch, and Roz (from Monster's Inc.). Worklights are on in Space Mountain, though there were walls up around the majority of the ride.

I also visited Epcot for some of the Food & Wine Festival. Because of the festival, Epcot, even on a week day, seemed a lot busier than it would normally have been. But it wasn't unbearable. Out of what I ate, I highly suggest the Beef Empanada's (Argentina), the Taco (Mexico City), and the Pork Pot Stickers (China). I didn't work my way past China. But next time I will for my park update.

Thanks Kyle on your update. Great Job

Walt Disney Time Travel "Wonders of Life"

2009-10-11T12:34:00.000-07:00

By: Stratofariusbr on Twitter

The year is 1990. You are just getting to EPCOT Center. As you enter the park, you pick up a map, and discuss what pavillion will be the first one you'll visit. Horizons? No. World of Motion? No. Living Seas? No. You are going to Wonders of Life.
Wonders of Life opened in 1989. It was the last Future World pavillion to be opened, pratically one of the firsts to receive permanent rehabs (such as Seas with Nemo), and was sponsored by Metropolitan Life. Metropolitan Life is a company that did just what the pavillion theme was - Health and Life.*** Wonders of Life was a big golden ball and used a simple concept, the ride-watch-see. This was used in lots of other pavillions. Wonders of Life originally contained two theaters: one for The Making of Me and another one for Cranium Command,a simulator for Body Wars. Wonders of Life also has two food bars and lots of healthy exhibits.
The pavillion only opened on 1989 because the Imagineers couldn't find the right technology to make those concepts come true and there was no one to sponsor it. When it opened, it surprised everyone. I mean, Horizons opened on 1983, and Living Seas on 1984, but 1989? That was in the verge of the 90's! Disney wanted to do something that made people scream: "This is from the future!". They did that, a bit.
The two attractions are Body Wars and Cranium Command.How about let's talk about Cranium Command first.

Cranium Command was a show that was builded like it was inside of someone's head. The story of the ride is as follows: You are another Cranium Cadet who joined the Cranium Command team. These are little guys who control people's heads. As you enter the pre-show theater, you meet two of the most iconic characters of EPCOT Center. First, is General Knowledge who is a strong and angry general. Then you meet Buzzy. Buzzy is a young cadet who wants to be a Cranium Commander. General Knowledge decides that Buzzy should drive an adolescent boy so he could see if Buzzy deserved to be in the team. He then ordered the audience (delivering his best line: Where do you think you are, Disney World?) to follow Buzzy and see how he works. The audience then moved to the main theater and watched as Buzzy tried to control the boy's brain and deal with all the other organs in the body, who always talked with him.

The other attraction was Body Wars,a simulator much like the one in Star Tours. There is one difference, instead of travelling to Endor, you travel inside the human body. The attraction has a backstory. It is that you are travelling with MET (which matched the sponsor's name), an enterprise whose speciality was making medical operations from inside the body and turning "spaceships" into mini-"spaceships".The min-spaceships are beamed into the body. Things go wrong as you have some... technical problems.

Wonders of Life was received with acclaim. People loved it and it filled quicker than Horizons or Imagination.Things didn't go all well. On 2001, MetLife dropped sponsorship. Wonders of Life remained open until 2004. This was a surprise since the most expected thing was a rehab (example: Horizons, Universe of Energy and Living Seas).
On 2004, It started to become a seasonal pavillion. It opened when the WDW management wanted it to open. On 2006, Wonders of Life opened its doors as Wonders of Life for the last time. The big DNA which stood outside the pavillion was removed and since that year, Wonders of Life only re-opens as a pavillion for the International Food & Wine Festival.
The question is: will Wonders of Life get back to its brains or stay on its feet?
Only the Imagineers and time can tell.

Make sure you check out @Stratofariusbr on Twitter or his blog at http://stratwitter.wordpress.com/

To Infinity and Back! Buzz Lightyear Returns from Space

2009-10-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

Disney World on Friday October 2nd celebrated Buzz Lightyear’s cosmic achievement as the longest tenured crew member in space with a ticker-tape parade down Main Street, U.S.A. in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Some of Buzz’s new friends, including astronaut Buzz Aldrin and International Space Station Expedition 18 astronaut Michael Fincke, attended.

I want to thank Shaun Mattox for taking these great photographs. And sharing them with Wdwfacts.

14th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Menu's

2009-09-29T10:52:00.001-07:00

This is most of the Menu's from the 14th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. This is here to just give you a idea what kind of foods are at the Festival. I would like to throw a Big Thank You to Knick Flanigan who took all of the Photo's for this Post. More of Knicks Photo's from the Festival are coming soon.

Space Mountain Construction Update

2009-09-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

Space Mountain is being refurbished until November 25, 2009. We thought we would share some update photo's from September 27th of the construction being done on Space Mountain and the immediate area. I hope you enjoy them. These photo's are being brought to you by Alex Goldman. Thanks Alex.

Walt Disney World's Fantasyland Part Deux

2009-09-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

Mickey Mouse's house and his Toon Town world will make way next year for a vastly larger Fantasyland, in the biggest-ever expansion of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Florida, Walt Disney Co said on Saturday.

The Fantasyland expansion, whose price tag was not disclosed, will open in two stages in 2012 and 2013 and builds on the popularity of the Disney Princess and Fairies franchises, which have topped $4 billion in global retail sales.

Disney theme parks Chairman Jay Rasulo said the Fantasyland project, which breaks ground next year, will be paid for from funds designated for the theme park division's annual capital expenditures.

Plans call for four Disney Princess characters -- Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Belle from "Beauty and the Beast" and Ariel from "The Little Mermaid" -- to be featured in "fantasy lands" where park visitors engage in dancing, storytelling or a birthday party with costumed characters from the films.

The expansion includes two new dining spots -- Gascon's Tavern and the 552-seat Beast's Castle. A new underwater ride based on "The Little Mermaid, will be built both in the Florida Fantasyland and at the ongoing expansion of California Adventure in Disneyland.

The second phase of the Fantasyland expansion will be an oversized world based on the fairy world of Pixie Hollow from "Peter Pan," but no other details were available because the attraction was still in early development stages, Rasulo said.

As part of the Fantasyland expansion, Disney plans to double the size of the popular Dumbo ride to add a covered "three-ring circus" waiting area with interactive games and a play area.

Disney Imagineers, who design rides and attractions, said the Toon Town attraction would be dismantled and its popular Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse houses relocated to another section of Walt Disney World.

Imagineer Errors: Stitch's Great Escape

2009-09-12T16:25:00.000-07:00

By: http://twitter.com/Stratofariusbr

Hello there, little humans. My name is F.A.C.T, which stands for Fictional Animatronic that Comes from Tomorrow. I have been brought from the Tomorrowland of 2015 in order to explain some things to you, humans. Right, everyone is seated? Let's start.
In Tomorrowland of 2015, we were discussing an incredible bad problem that you humans were suffering. And it stayed right in the first building on the right side of one of the roads of Tomorrowland. I'm talking about Stitch's Great Escape. But before we talk about that attraction, let's talk about what was there before Stitch found a lair in that building.

The attraction that was there was called Alien Encounter. You were seated around a big tube, and you saw an teleportation experiment going wrong, as XS, the company that made the teleportation, instead of bringing a friendly alien, brough to Earth an maniac, meat-eating alien. And it's next dish was going to be you. The ride even featured scenes where blood, fake blood of course, was sprayed in the audience. It was belove by some, but hated by the others. Some people started complaining that their kids were begging them to leave the ride, and that they would never want to come back to Disney while that attraction was still there.

Disney Imagineers quickly decided that they would have to do something quickly. They decided to replace XS and put something more kid-friendly on that ride, using the same technology. And then, with a quick SNAP, Imagineering made an horrible decision: Let's put Stitch there.
But why a horrible decision? Well, its because they had their reasons and problems. First, they only chose Stitch not because he was loved by the kids, but because he selled more merchandise quickly than any other character in Tomorrowland (Mike Wazowski wasn't there during this transition, there was The Timekeeper). And because he selled more merchandise, soon Stitch started taking over lots of places over the Walt Disney World resort. He is in every store of the resort, and some people call him the "guy who makes rides be a failure", because everything that Stitch starred, with the sad exception of Stitch's Great Escape, went down in a couple of weeks.
Imagineering also made a horrible solution: they didn't even planned a new ride. Stitch's Great Escape used the same things and history as Alien Encounter, the difference is that there was a Stitch instead of an menacing Alien. However, the ride lost its replay factor. Alien Encounter was fun and scary, providing a excellent experience. However, Stitch's version of the ride was horrible and low on effects. The only effects I do remember that were fun were when Stitch's eats a onion sandvich and the smell of it was sprayed on you.

Stitch's Great Escape is more like a Great Failure, and even Imagineers admit that. But why they don't replace it? Well, its because Stitch, even with a horrible ride, still sells merchandise! That is why this ride is one of the biggest Imagineer Errors.
Well, humans, that is all I have to say. I hope to see you and your little cameras soon in the future. Bon Voyage!
Oh, you might want to check this links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ExtraTERRORestrial_Alien_Encounter
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stitch%27s_Great_Escape!

Luxo back and working at Disney's Hollywood Studio's

2009-09-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

Luxo the animatronic figure is back and working at Disney's Hollywood Studio's.

Check out this video of Luxo at Pixar Place.

Walt Disney Time Travel !!!!

2009-08-29T08:47:00.001-07:00

World of Motion

I'm going to take you back. No, not "back to the future". Actually, we are going back to 1982. Yes, it was the year when EPCOT was opening, and you can already guess what we are going to talk about. Let me guess, you are thinking "Horizons". Well, sorry, but that wasn't open back at 1982, maybe another time. What was that? You said "Journey into Imagination"? My friend, the pavillion was there, but the actual ride didn't open until 1983. Did somebody said "CommuniCore"? Good guess, but thats not our subject today. Lets hop into the DeLorean, and go back to the past, as we take a look at one of my favorite old-time attractions, WORLD OF MOTION.

World of Motion was the first attraction that took place at the Transportation pavillion. The same pavillion that today holds the Test Track ride (which is awesome, I must confess). But before we talk about the actual ride, let me inform you about some interesting stuff. It was an opening day attraction sponsored by General Motors, that wanted to give a funny look on the transportation history. That was interesting, because most people said that EPCOT Center was not a park for the kids. Its story began when General Motors wanted to sponsor a pavillion at Epcot, because Ford had one at the 1964's New York World's Fair. GM then signed a 10 year sponsorship deal, and construction began on the ride, together with EPCOT Center's own construction.

The ride then took you to a trip on OmniMover's that told you all about the transportation history - in a way that it would be educational and interesting. It was narrated by Gary Owens, and featured 188 Audio-Animatronics, that featured from a sailor looking at his telescope, with a sea serpent looking back; a man who just fell from his bike; another man who was running from a dog and much more. Of course, you can tell by reading this that World of Motion exceeded at its task: educate and entertain kids and adults.

And the ride didn't end there. After a look at the city of the future, and another incredible use of the Pepper's Ghost effect, where people saw that their OmniMover's had just transformed into vehicles from the future, you were dropped at the Transcenter, a huge place where you had much more to see! Look at GM cars from the past, the present and the future! Take a look at the Water Engine, and sneak into The Dreamer's Workshop, to see concepts for future GM cars! Also, my personal favorite, the show Bird an the Robot, where an New York bird presented his fellow robot companion - named Tiger - do lots of tricks such as play dead, conduct an orchestra, and more - in fact, he was the first Audio Animatronic to PICK UP stuff, such as an Applause/Boo sign and an conductor baton.

But it all had to end. In 1992, GM had just signed another contract, but had a new idea: "How about the Disney Imagineers make another ride, but this time, make it focus more on CARS than the concept of general transportation?". And so, World of Motion was closed and Test Track was born. My opnion on this? Test Track is a great attraction, and World of Motion was a great attraction too. Both had the same level of "awesomeness". So, I say that every attraction has its time, and World of Motion time had come. But we will never forget that when it comes to transportation, it's always fun to be free.

It's fun to be free,

to be on the move.

To go anywhere,

with never a care.

To do all you wanted to do,

it's fun to be free!

It's fun to be free,

to be on the move.

To go where you please,

with comfort and ease.

To see all there is to be seen,

it's fun to be free!

Written By: http://twitter.com/Stratofariusbr

Tomorrowland Transit Authority reopen date is Sept. 12th.

2009-08-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

The Tomorrowland Transit Authority or as I like to call it the People Mover will be reopening on September 12 2009. One of the noticeable changes is the LED lighting with interesting color-changing effects. This video is on youtube and I posted it for your enjoyment. If I find out any other new changes I will post them A.S.A.P..

New La Cava del Tequila Serves Up Tastes of Mexican Tequila Heritage

2009-08-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Tasty tequilas and mouthwatering margaritas are on tap at La Cava del Tequila, a new offering for Epcot guests to explore the heritage and tradition of tequila-making in Mexico.

Tucked away in the Mexico pavilion at Epcot, La Cava del Tequila beckons guests with more than 70 types of authentic tequila, ranging from the simplest to the rarest of them all, aged to perfection and made from the finest distilled spirits from the agave plant. Tequilas range in price from $8 to $50 for a specialty tequila.

Amid warm décor, art work and original artifacts all celebrating the Mexican heritage, a “Tequila Ambassador” is on hand to educate Walt Disney World guests on the history of tequila-making.

Also on the drink menu: Exotic and uniquely blended margaritas, introducing a variety of flavored salts, spices and tropical fresh fruits masterfully prepared by experienced mixologists. A variety of quick tastes, tapas style, will be available, including freshly made guacamole and ceviche as well as mahi mahi tostadas with diced mango and avocado and blue crab tostados with chipotle mayo and Valentina sauce.

The 30-seat La Cava del Tequila is open from noon until Epcot park closing time. It is connected to the famous San Angel Inn as part of the Mexico pavilion, a popular stop for Walt Disney World guests.

The Most Delicious Time of the Year – Epcot’s 14th Annual International Food & Wine

2009-08-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

Festival runs from September 25-November 8, 2009 at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Whether you have been to Epcot enough times to rattle off the location of each hidden Mickey in the park, or you are planning your very first visit - the World Showcase’s reputation for great food is well known. Roaming from the Margaritas in Mexico’s San Angel Inn to the steaks cooked to perfection in Canada’s Le Cellier, to the pastries in France’s Boulangerie, you will not go hungry in Epcot. However, if you want even more scrumptious treats, wines, and beers from countries that are not normally represented at Epcot, then you won’t want to miss the Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival .

As soon as you enter the World Showcase section of Epcot with your theme park admission, the delicious smells of delicacies from across the globe waft around you, making your stomach growl in anticipation. Oh, did I mention to come hungry? That’s a must. No filling up on a character breakfast buffet before visiting the Food & Wine Festival - you will thank me later! Most likely, you’ll have a hard time deciding which of the tapas-style food creations (priced between $2-$7 a plate) to try. The unique wine and beer pairings simply add to the experience.

This year the festival, which always features a different annual theme (although many favorite dishes return each year), is focusing on “foodie” cities from around the world. There are more than 25 kiosks serving food and wine around the World Showcase promenade – highlights of which include Bologna, Italy; Bangkok, Thailand; Wellington, New Zealand; Santiago, Chile; Marrakesh, Morocco; Shanghai, China; with New Orleans going to bat for the United States.

Be sure you pick up a guide map at the park entrance, so you can follow along with all the great selections and decide which food and drink stations you can’t miss. While I could say to just try them all, even the most competitive eaters might not be able to pull off trying ever offering in one day. One way to go would be make one trip around to try all the new foods as you walk around and enjoy the sites and sounds of World Showcase, then take a break in Future World as you digest, and make another trip around for some of the wonderful desserts featured at the pavilions.

On a personal note, this festival has always been a ‘must-see’ for our family. We were here when it began in 1995, because we were cast members at the time. The 2^nd year, my husband and I were getting married during the festival’s run, and showing our relatives and friends the amazing offerings in the days before we had our reception at the Walt Disney World Dolphin. Years later our children look forward to it each year as well. Would you believe my son’s favorite part is eating the escargot from France each year?? Yes, you read that right – snails! It’s a great way to get kids excited about trying new foods and learning about new countries and traditions in the process.

While you may come for the food, there is much more than just eating and drinking happening around the promenade. There are culinary demonstrations, beer and wine tastings from around the world, and Signature Dining Series for the true gourmands, featuring guest speakers and chefs serving up delectable lunches and dinners, for a separate fee. In addition to all the edible enjoyment, you can Eat to the Beat with some wonderful musicians that keep things rocking while you enjoy the tastes of the world.

Here are the 17 scheduled performers for this year’s Eat to the Beat concert series:
Concerts, which are included with Epcot admission, begin at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. daily. The lineup (subject to change) includes:

Eat to the Beat concert series schedule:*

Sept. 25-27	Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (“You & Me & The Bottle Makes 3 Tonight (Baby)”)
Sept. 28-29	Richard Marx ("Hold On to the Nights")
Sept. 30-Oct. 3	Starship starring Mickey Thomas (“We Built This City”)
Oct. 4-6	En Vogue (“Free Your Mind”)
Oct. 7-8	Better Than Ezra ("Good")
Oct. 9-11	Sister Hazel (“All for You”)
Oct. 12-13	Kool & The Gang (“Celebration”)
Oct. 14-16	Spyro Gyra (“Morning Dance”)
Oct. 17-18	Jon Secada (“Just Another Day”)
Oct. 19-20	Sister Sledge ("We Are Family")
Oct. 21-22	Vanessa Carlton ("A Thousand Miles")
Oct. 23-25	Taylor Dayne ("Tell It to My Heart")
Oct. 26-28	Boyz II Men (“Motownphilly”)
Oct. 29-31	John Waite ("Missing You")
Nov. 1-2	Night Ranger (“Sister Christian”)
Nov. 3-5	Billy Ocean ("Caribbean Queen")
Nov. 6-8	Los Lobos (“La Bamba”)

Don’t forget to grab an extra dessert, drink and a spot for viewing Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – Epcot’s mesmerizing nighttime fireworks show, featuring awe-inspiring fireworks, fountains, lasers and music – the perfect nightcap to a delicious Disney day.

For more information: see WaltDisneyWorld.com’s Food & Wine Festival page.

*Entertainment subject to change

Zanna DiMarzio, ZannaLand.com

Top 10 Restaurants in WDW

2009-08-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

I had so many fans reply to this poll. It was supposed to be a Top 5 but with over 500 responses I had to make it a Top 10. I know myself I have ate at most of Walt Disney World's Restaurants and enjoy the wonderful tasty meals that they have served me. But there are always a few that always stand out. And here are some of your Walt Disney World Favorites that made the Top 10.

10. Shula's ( Dolphin Resort)
9. Yak and Yeti (Animal Kingdom ) (Tie)
9. Narcoossee's (Grand Floridian) (Tie)
8. Teppan Edo (Epcot Japan)
7. Sanaa (Animal Kingdom Villa's)
6. Flying Fish (Boardwalk)
5. Hollywood Brown Derby (Hollywood Studio's)
4. Victoria and Albert's (Grand Floridian)
3. 'Ohana (Polynesian)
2. California Grill (Contemporary)
1. Le Cellier (Epcot Canada)

I hope everyone enjoy's looking at the Top 10 Rated Restaurants in all of Walt Disney World. And soon you I will be posting the Top 10 Rated Counter Service Restaurants. If you have a favorite Counter Service Restaurant let us know. Send us a Tweet on Twitter or Email us at wdwfacts@gmail.com. Thanks for all your responses and have a Magical Day.

Fun Disney Games on Twitter

2009-06-29T13:16:00.001-07:00

We all love Walt Disney World, and at WDW there are lots of fun games to play. Unfortunately, we can't all be in Disney all the time. What to do? Well, as many of you know I have a Twitter account and I regularly post entertaining facts about Walt Disney World. However, for those of who who don't know me from twitter and have instead found my blog through Google or a link from another site, here's a few of the things to find on my Twitter page:

Facts and Trivia:
Well, now that one's just obvious. After all, my site is called wdwfacts.com.

Where am I? Game:
This is a fun little "Tweet" game I play with my followers. I post a picture from Walt Disney World and you tell me where I took the picture at, judging from clues in the photo.

What am I? Game
This one is for all of the wordsmiths out there. It's basically an anagram game. I give you a word or a series of words. You rearrange the letters and tell me what it is unscrambled. The word/phrase is always something Disney, either something from the parks, hotels or show.

I'll be coming up with more fun stuff to do on my Twitter page soon! So get a Twitter account and follow me @ http://www.twitter.com/wdwfacts

Toy Story Mania! Coming to the Wii

2009-05-17T14:30:00.001-07:00

BURBANK, Calif., (March 24, 2009) Disney Interactive Studios today announced Toy Story Mania!, inspired by the Disney/Pixar animated feature "Toy Story," will be released exclusively for the Wii home video game console this fall. Toy Story Mania! showcases an array of entertaining games based on the new Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort attractions, while featuring the iconic characters and humor from the popular Disney/Pixar "Toy Story" franchise.

"The 'Toy Story' franchise is a fun, dynamic and heart-warming series containing characters and themes that connect with every age group," said Craig Relyea, senior vice president of global marketing, Disney Interactive Studios. "Toy Story Mania! combines those popular elements with the unique antics of the new theme park attraction for the ultimate in family entertainment."

In Toy Story Mania!, players experience the fast-paced, zany fun of the Toy Story Mania! theme park attraction, which is an interactive experience requiring 3D glasses and involving rapid or quick-firing shooting galleries. In addition to galleries adapted from the attraction, the game includes new and original galleries and a series of mini games, all hosted by beloved characters from the movies. The thematically-connected levels are designed for up to four players of all ages with competitive and co-operative multiplayer options. Toy Story Mania! also includes bonus 3D features, transforming the game experience with eye-popping visuals.

The Pixar-created "Toy Story" and "Toy Story 2" have both had successful box office and DVD sales. The Disney Digital 3D™ theatrical re-release of "Toy Story" is in the works and will open in theatres on October 2, 2009, followed by the 3D re-release of "Toy Story 2" opening on February 12, 2010, leading up to the premiere of "Toy Story 3" in 3D summer 2010. Toy Story Mania! is the first video game to place characters from these films into a carnival game setting and is expected to resonate with fans of the films and the attraction, as well as gamers who like pick-up-and-play party games

Developed by Papaya Studio, Toy Story Mania! will be available this fall exclusively for Wii.

Disney Vacation Club Resorts Offer New Themed Adventures Just in Time for Summer Travel

2009-05-17T14:04:00.001-07:00

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Three highly anticipated resort developments will expand the Walt Disney World vacation experience and continue the rapid growth of Disney Vacation Club, Disney’s innovative vacation-ownership program:

the African-inspired Kidani Village opened May 2009 with additional villas scheduled to open fall 2009

the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, scheduled to open in summer 2009, will become the next room category offered at that resort

the 15-story Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is scheduled to join the Disney Vacation Club family of properties by fall 2009.

“Our founder, Walt Disney, was well-known for having one foot in the past and one in the future,” said Disney Vacation Club President Jim Lewis. “These new resort developments share that dynamic sensibility, blending modern luxury and design with nostalgic spirit.”

The developments come during an unprecedented era of growth for Disney Vacation Club, established in 1991 to give families decades of affordable vacations at Disney destinations and beyond. Disney Vacation Club membership has more than doubled since 2004, expanding to include more than 400,000 individuals from approximately 100 countries and every U.S. state.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

The newly opened Kidani Village, located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, offers guests African-inspired details and home-like accommodations and amenities. Many vacation villas will also feature sweeping views of an expanded savannah inhabited by a variety of African animals.

The Kidani Village development includes Sanaa, a table-service restaurant celebrating African-inspired cuisine with an Indian touch; Samawati Springs Pool, a themed pool area; Uwanja Camp, a themed water-play area; Survival of the Fittest, a fitness center; Johari Treasures, a merchandise shop, and more. The remaining rooms and amenities are scheduled for a fall 2009 opening. Upon its completion, Kidani Village is planned to include 340 two-bedroom equivalent vacation villas, for a total of 449 two-bedroom equivalent accommodations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas.

Jambo House, which includes 109 remodeled two-bedroom equivalent accommodations on the fifth and sixth floors of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, opened in July 2007.

Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Meanwhile, nestled in natural forest glens just around the riverbend from the bustling Downtown Disney area, Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will mark the newest phase of what has become the largest Disney Vacation Club resort.

This new phase will revive Walt Disney World “treehouse living,” a cherished tradition from 1975-2002. While crews are replacing villas of the ‘70s with brand-new vacation homes, Imagineers took special care to honor the original octagonal design.

The construction process itself was unique as each stand-alone treehouse villa came together like a giant 3-D puzzle to ensure both superior quality and environmental sensitivity.

All 60 three-bedroom homes, elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest environment, sleep nine and offer modern luxuries such as cathedral ceilings, granite countertops and flat-screen TVs, all presented in a style dubbed “cabin casual.”

“I was lucky enough to have a treehouse as a kid, but it was certainly nothing like this,” said Imagineer Todd Thomasson. “In developing this resort, we’ve all learned a new word, ‘glamping,’ which apparently means glamorous camping. Treehouse Villas will be glamping at its absolute best.”

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

The new, curvilinear Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is designed to complement the fabled styling of the original building, which opened with Magic Kingdom on Oct. 1, 1971. Drawing on the color palette and strong horizontal lines of its iconic predecessor, the new structure even sports a rooftop lounge inspired by the original resort’s A-frame architecture.

The tower’s crescent shape, hugging lush landscaping, planned recreation options and a lakeside pool, promises to deliver some of the most dramatic views available anywhere at Walt Disney World Resort. Some villas face scenic, undeveloped stretches of Bay Lake, while others offer spectacular views of Magic Kingdom, located a short walk away.

Inside the tower’s 295 two-bedroom-equivalent villas, visionary design meets Disney chic to define the vacation experience. As the closest resort to Magic Kingdom, Bay Lake Tower guests can easily return to their rooms for quick breaks from their busy day in the park, where they can relax in an inspiring setting offering many of the conveniences of home.

Most of the rooms will feature innovative touches, such as modern artwork designed specifically for Bay Lake Tower, flat-screen TVs, full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, separate bedrooms, washers and dryers, and other home-like amenities. Plus, to accommodate larger families or families traveling together, many Bay Lake Tower vacation villas are designed to sleep up to nine, though some units can also be divided into one-bedroom villas that sleep five and studios that accommodate four, creating flexible options for smaller groups.

Add to the plans a spacious lobby filled with woven woods and glass-wrapped columns, sweeping views from a rooftop lounge and fireworks viewing deck, and the convenience of a sky bridge linking families to shops, restaurants and the monorail station.

Overnight guests seeking these accommodations as Disney Deluxe vacation rentals may call 407/W-DISNEY, or through travel agents or www.disneyworld.com.

Disney Vacation Club is owned by Disney Vacation Development Inc., part of the magic of The Walt Disney Company. To learn more, visit www.disneyvacationclub.com.

Celebrity Chef Cat Cora To Open New Walt Disney World Restaurant

2009-03-22T05:20:00.000-07:00

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 17, 2009) -- Chef Cat Cora and Disney are joining together to open an exciting new family dining restaurant at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. Kouzzina by Cat Cora will feature a menu of Mediterranean-style cuisine that pays tribute to the chef’s Greek roots.

The restaurant, to be owned and operated by Disney, is scheduled to open by fall 2009 in the space currently occupied by Spoodles.

“I am pleased to welcome Cat Cora and her engaging new concept for Kouzzina to the Walt Disney World Resort,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “This collaboration between Cat and Disney represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to offer unique culinary experiences and choices for our guests.”

As a Mississippi native born to a family of Greek restaurateurs, Cora grew up immersed in two different and flavorful cultures , and has taken from that unique background the kitchen “know-how” handed down through generations. The cuisine at Kouzzina (Greek for “kitchen” and pronounced “koo-zee-nah”) will showcase Mediterranean cuisine and Chef Cora’s philosophy to create simple yet sensational meals.

Cora said that the new restaurant will feature “time-honored recipes passed down from my ancestors, as well as my favorite Greek and Mediterranean dishes that my family loves.”

She began working with Disney in 2008 by creating a Disney Video on Demand series to showcase ways to help families develop more healthy eating habits. “I’m extremely excited about this latest extension of my relationship with Disney,” she said. “Together, we’re going to develop a truly amazing contemporary Mediterranean restaurant.”

The first and only female Iron Chef on Food Network's hit show “Iron Chef America,” Cora is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York. She also is Executive Chef for Bon Appétit magazine. In addition to hosting the instructional cooking demonstrations for Disney Video on Demand, Cora has been a featured chef at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and at Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival at Disneyland Resort.

Multi-Platinum Christian Rock Band P.O.D. to Make 2009 Concert Debut in September at Disney’s Night of Joy

2009-03-12T10:15:00.001-07:00

isney ‘newbie’ joins MercyMe, newsboys, Flyleaf, Skillet, Jars of Clay, Chris Tomlin among 14 acts playing Disney’s Hollywood Studios Sept. 11-12

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Feb. 25, 2009) – Multi-platinum Christian rock band P.O.D., currently on hiatus following a lengthy world tour, will make its 2009 concert debut as part of a 14-act lineup announced today for Disney’s Night of Joy Sept. 11-12 at Walt Disney World Resort. The musically diverse event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park also will feature MercyMe, newsboys, Skillet, Flyleaf, Chris Tomlin, Kutless, Jars of Clay, Grits, Leeland, NEEDTOBREATHE, Superchick, Mandisa and Family Force 5.

Seven acts will perform each evening between 7 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. at stage locations throughout the park. Night of Joy begins after regular park operating hours, with concerts and select park attractions available exclusively for the enjoyment of event ticket holders.

P.O.D. is among four acts new to Night of Joy (along with Grits, NEEDTOBREATHE and Family Force 5), joining a legacy of 134 Christian music acts that have played Night of Joy since 1983. While a Disney “newbie,” the southern California-based band that fuses hard rock with hip-hop, reggae and Latin music is well known in music circles. They’ve been a hit on MTV, won two GMA Dove Awards, been Grammy-nominated, had two platinum-certified albums – one triple platinum – and in past summers played some of the north’s biggest Christian festivals.

But in spring/summer 2009, P.O.D. is chillin’: Vocalist Sonny Sandoval and the rest of the band are home in SoCal enjoying family life following a seven-month world tour that wound up in South America in December, making their Sept. 11 date at Disney P.O.D.’s first gig of the year.

“In the past year we’ve been blessed to play all around the globe but performing at Disney World excites me most of all,” Sandoval said.

The complete Sept. 11 Night of Joy lineup: P.O.D., newsboys, Kutless, Tomlin, NEEDTOBREATHE, Leeland and Superchick.

On Sept. 12, the Studios’ stages will present: Skillet, MercyMe, Jars of Clay, Flyleaf, Family Force 5, Grits and Mandisa.

Eight of the acts are nominated for Gospel Music Association Dove Awards in 2009, topped by Tomlin with seven nominations including artist of the year. Other nominees are Kutless, Leeland, NEEDTOBREATHE, Skillet, MercyMe, Mandisa and Grits.

For Mandisa, Night of Joy will mark her second “guest appearance” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2009. On Feb. 12, she was among an unprecedented gathering of 27 “American Idol” finalists – including the winners from each of the show’s first seven seasons – who participated in a Hollywood gala-style event to premiere “The American Idol Experience.” The new attraction immerses guests in the excitement of the hit TV show “American Idol,” with some guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios auditioning to take the spotlight onstage, while fellow guests cheer them on from the audience and vote for their favorite singer with instant results.

With an innovative ticket – exclusively for groups of 10 or more – that combines a “day” visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios with Night of Joy admission that evening, guests will have a chance to participate in “The American Idol Experience.” And by booking on or before Aug. 12, the Studios day/Night of Joy group ticket costs just $44.95 plus tax (beginning Aug. 13, it costs $49.95).

There’s also a two-day ticket exclusively for groups of 10 or more that combines Night of Joy admission on both evenings (Sept. 11 and Sept. 12) with two “day visits” to the guest’s choice of Walt Disney World theme parks (one per day) on Night of Joy weekend (Sept. 11-13). Booked on/before Aug. 12, that ticket costs just $89.95 plus tax (beginning Aug. 13, it costs $99.95).

Night of Joy tickets for individuals also are available. One-night tickets purchased in advance (up to the day prior to the event) are $49.95 plus tax (on event day, if available, tickets are $54.95). Two-night tickets (providing admission to Night of Joy on both Sept. 11 and 12) are $84.95 plus tax.

All the details about tickets for groups and individuals are available online at www.nightofjoy.com.

Fun Facts Flourish across Landscape of 16th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

2009-03-11T06:23:00.000-07:00

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – With new, vibrant gardens, popular Disney character topiaries and colorful celebrations, it’s time to party during the 16th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, presented by Disneynature, March 18-May 31 at Walt Disney World Resort. Among this year’s fun festival facts:

30 million blooms dress the park throughout the festival, which runs 75 colorful days.

As part of this year’s Celebration theme, guests can enjoy a commemoration of Cinderella’s coronation day as a “Cinderellabration” featuring royal guests including Prince Charming, Sleeping Beauty and Belle – all as intricately designed topiaries. Other topiary merriment includes: Simba’s Birthday Celebration in a classic scene based on the Disney animated film “The Lion King” and Be Our Guest featuring the entertaining characters from “Beauty and the Beast.”

More than 50 Disney character topiaries include Aladdin, Lady and the Tramp, and Snow White and the seven dwarfs. Classic Disney characters Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto and Goofy strike topiary poses doing their favorite outdoor activities in the new, garden-themed playground Let’s Get Moving.

Little princesses can come dressed up and show off their costumes in the all-new daily Fairy & Princess Procession in the new Pixie Hollow-themed play area.

More than 500 native butterflies representing up to 10 species reside in Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden, a gazebo-type enclosure filled with lush plants and measuring more than 40 feet in diameter. Guests can stroll through the screened habitat to view the colorful butterflies. Among the garden’s two dozen nectar plants are Cape Royal plumbago, passion flower, coral honeysuckle, blazing star, butterfly bush, scarlet milkweed and canna lily.

300,000 bedding plants are installed for the festival.

Two butterfly topiaries are on display. Also, Doc, Grumpy and the rest of the seven dwarfs appear at the Epcot entrance with intricate topiary detail that includes beards of palm fiber. Perfume bottle topiaries represent Guerlain perfumes in the Fragrance Garden at the France pavilion.

At least 25 different plants, grasses and mosses of various colors, including pink and red begonias, dusty miller, palm fiber, palm seeds, ficus and lichen, are used to create and define features of the festival topiaries. More color has been added to the topiaries than in any previous topiary presentation.

More than 15 floral, herbal and spice ingredients of 10 popular perfumes are revealed in the Fragrance Garden presented by Guerlain at the France pavilion. Guests can sniff the enduring fragrance Shalimar to discover botanical notes that include lemon, Arabian jasmine and vanilla. Some components of nine other Guerlain fragrances include mimosa, magnolia, rose, nutmeg and vetivergrass.

At the Green Garden exhibit, guests can learn tips on how to create their own environmentally safe garden, including information about low-water-use, native plants and recycling.

Forty-five “flower towers” of impatiens line Innoventions Plaza.

100 floating mini-gardens, each three feet in diameter, of multi-hued impatiens provide splashes of color on two ponds that border the walkway between Future World and World Showcase. There are also 15 large gardens, each eight feet in diameter.

750 container gardens of flowers, herbs, plants and vegetables in clay pots, barrels and urns enhance the landscape throughout Epcot.

300 Walt Disney World horticulturists are needed to install the festival landscape, topiaries and many exhibits; 100 Epcot horticulturists maintain topiaries and other festival displays.

It takes more than one full year to prepare for the annual festival.

The festival’s Flower Power is bolstered by weekend appearances of musical hit makers of the 1960s and '70s including Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Davy Jones, Paul Revere & The Raiders, Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, and Jose Feliciano – a total of 11 acts this year.

Iger announces new Disney Cruise ship names “Dream” and “Fantasy”

2009-03-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

Disney Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger announced the names of Disney Cruise Line’s next two ships during the company’s annual shareholder meeting today in Oakland, Ca. The Disney “Dream” will begin sailing in 2011 and the Disney “Fantasy” will join the fleet in 2012.

The new ships will take over the existing routes that depart from Port Canaveral through at least 2014. Barring something major, like the recent rumor of Disney purchasing another cruise line, the two ships bring Disney’s fleet to four vessels, with the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.

Interestingly, Disney Gossip appears to have gotten one name right back in March of 2008 and one commenter on that post got both right. Lucky guesses?

Welcome to WDWfacts

2009-03-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog. I will be keeping everyone updated with interesting facts about Walt Disney World. Some facts you might know. Some facts you might not know. But I hope to keep everyone interested in my blog. If you have any facts you want to share with me send them to my email address at wdwfacts@gmail.com . I will also be on twitter so follow me there and get some cool updates on facts, plus I will keep everyone informed on the stuff happening at WDW on a daily basis. Plus we will have some cool photo's to show you along with the facts. So enjoy and Welcome Home.

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2009-03-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

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