New details on outer space-themed restaurant at new area being developed at Epcot

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 14, 2018) – Last summer, Disney news of a one-of-a-kind, space-themed restaurant is currently planned for Epcot that’ll offer guests amazing meals and a spectacular view – from high above Earth.

According to a report by the Disney Parks Blog, the new restaurant will be built in a newly-developed area located between the park’s Mission: SPACE and Test Track attractions.

AT D23 EXPO 2017, DISNEY PARKS CHAIRMAN BOB CHAPEK ANNOUNCES A NEW RESTAURANT COMING TO EPCOT — Adjacent to Mission: SPACE will be a new restaurant that will invite guests to travel high above the earth for an unforgettable dining experience.

The blog reports:

“Once completed, the restaurant will invite guests to travel to space for an amazing dining experience in the stars. The new restaurant will be operated by the Patina Restaurant Group, led by Nick Valenti, which operates several other restaurants around Walt Disney World Resort, including Tutto Italia and Via Napoli at Epcot and Morimoto Asia and Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs.

“But Epcot guests don’t have to wait until the restaurant opens to enjoy a thrilling adventure in space. Last summer, the park’s Mission: SPACE attraction launched new experiences: the enhanced Orange Mission offers a truly intense experience that lets guests feel the force of an actual space launch en route to Mars; while the all-new, family-friendly Green Mission takes guests on an exciting orbit around Earth.

“And this summer – starting June 9 – Star-Lord and Gamora from “Guardians of the Galaxy” will take guests on a musical journey through the cosmos in “Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live!” as a part of Walt Disney World’s “Incredible Summer” offerings. Guests can catch “Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live!” at the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot, five times a day from June 9 through August 19.

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!

Get your tickets now for two of WDW’s most popular annual events

Mickey and Minnie Mouse are decked out in their newest Halloween party-wear in front of the Haunted Mansion at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. It’s all part of the fun that takes place when the Magic Kingdom hosts “Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.” A separate ticket is required to attend. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 11, 2018) – Tickets are now available online for two of Walt Disney Worlds most popular fall events.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party fills Magic Kingdom Park with spooky delights on select nights beginning August 17.

Returning party “treats” include the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show in front of Cinderella Castle, Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade, “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks spectacular, candy and much more.

Dates for this year’s event are: August 17, 24, 28, 31; September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30; and October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets start at $75 in advance or $85 at the gate, if available.

Guests can also grab tickets now for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties. Returning favorites for the holiday party includes Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade; “Holiday Wishes” fireworks spectacular; “A Frozen Holiday Wish,” in which Queen Elsa uses her incredible powers to transform Cinderella Castle into a sparkling, icy centerpiece for the celebration; and the jubilant show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.”

This year’s party dates are: November 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30; and December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets start at $95 in advance or $105 at the gate, if available.

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!

 

 

Unwrapping New Details on June 30 Grand Opening of Toy Story Land at DHS

  Little green aliens from the hit Disney Pixar “Toy Story” films pilot toy rocket ships in the Alien Swirling Saucers attraction that will be part of the new Toy Story Land opening June 30, 2018, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The out-of-this-world attraction is inspired by Andy’s toy play set from the Pizza Planet restaurant. With multi-colored lighting and sound effects from throughout the galaxies, Walt Disney World guests will swirl and whirl in the toy rocket ships while the aliens try to get captured by “The Claw” that hangs overhead. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 5, 2018) – As fans continue the countdown to the opening of Toy Story Land on June 30, more “toy-riffic” news is emerging as anticipation builds for the colorful new land coming to life at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Guests will “shrink” to the size of a toy as they enter into this land full of everyone’s favorite toys, building blocks and game pieces. Across eleven fun-filled acres designed to recreate Andy’s toy-filled backyard from the Disney·Pixar “Toy Story” films, guests will be fully engaged in the wonderful world where Woody, Buzz, Jessie and all their pals come out to play. Attractions and experiences straight from Andy’s imagination will treat park-goers to the best playtime ever – even after the Tinker Toy lights come on.

Here’s some freshly unwrapped news:

  • Alien Swirling Saucers. Designed as a playset Andy won at the Pizza Planet restaurant, this all-new attraction is out-of-this-world fun. “Toy Story” green aliens have powered up their flying saucers and earthbound guests get to play along. In rocket ship toys, guests swirl and whirl among toy planets and space stations as part of the game while “The Claw” hangs overhead. This space adventure is bathed in multi-color lighting and sound effects from throughout the galaxies. NEW: Disney has released the first-ever images of the new attraction, showing the toy spaceships being piloted by everyone’s favorite aliens.
  • Ten-hut! Just announced, Sarge and the Green Army Man Drum Corps will be marching several times a day through Toy Story Land. As the Drum Corps marches on, everyone’s invited to follow another contingent of Green Army Men to their fun and interactive boot camp, where they’ll “toy” with guests using giant Pixar balls, oversized crayons and a game of SARGE SAYS (their own spin on Simon Says). Will guests have what it takes to become official recruits in Andy’s backyard?
  • Wheezy, the squeaky toy penguin from the “Toy Story” films, will do more than bring smiles to the faces of guests riding Slinky Dog Dash, the family-style coaster coming to Toy Story Land. The all-new Audio-Animatronics figure will appear in the last scene of the coaster singing “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” in that great (and unexpected) voice of his. Wheezy will be accompanied by his toy friends: Mike the tape recorder, who’s provided him with a microphone, and Mr. Spell, who “texts” funny commentary.
  • After a day of play in Andy’s backyard, guests can relive their memories with fun merchandise created especially for Toy Story Land. Just announced – headbands are crowned by three-eyed space aliens or Slinky Dog. Slinky Dog also inspires a toy with light-up rings; he can even strrreetch around the waist or shoulders and double as a fashion accessory. Kids get bragging rights with commemorative “I Played There” t-shirts that let the world know they were among the first guests to Toy Story Land. These and other playful items will be available in merchandise locations found in Toy Story Land and at select shops in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Form today!

Marking 20 years of Milestones at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (April 30, 2018) – From creatures wild and whimsical to Broadway-caliber shows, from unparalleled adventures and experiences to award-winning conservation efforts, from exotic lands to cuisine that celebrates a global park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is marking an anniversary of 20 unforgettable years. And the best is yet to come!

(April 30, 2018): Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., marks its 20th anniversary today, on Earth Day, April 22, 2018. A special celebration commemorated the day with Disney characters, entertainers and executives. Over the years, the theme park has grown to include new attractions, animal conservation programs, and day and nighttime experiences such as Pandora – The World of Avatar. Guests who have visited Disney’s Animal Kingdom have also helped the Disney Conservation Fund direct more than $70 million to reverse the decline of wildlife in more than half the countries around the world. Disney’s Animal Kingdom opened at Walt Disney World Resort on April 22, 1998. (David Roark, photographer)

Here’s a look back at a few of the milestone dates in the evolution of Disney’s adventure park at Walt Disney World Resort:

  • June 20, 1995: Plans for “Wild Animal Kingdom” announced
  • August 4, 1995: Groundbreaking for Disney’s Animal Kingdom
  • December 5, 1995: The first tree, an authentic African acacia xanthophloea, is planted
  • June 12, 1996: Miles the giraffe is the first animal to arrive
  • October 5, 1996: A baby kudu is the first animal to be born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
  • November 4, 1997: Hope, a 14-year-old gorilla, gives birth to a male named Jabari
  • April 22, 1998 (Earth Day): Grand Opening for Disney’s Animal Kingdom
  • January 1999: Accreditation from Association of Zoos and Aquariums (formerly American Zoo and Aquarium Association)
  • March 1, 1999: Grand Opening of Asia, which includes Kali River Rapids and Maharajah Jungle Trek
  • July 1999: Tarzan Rocks! debuts
  • May 2000: Reproduction of Dino-Sue, the rare 65 million-year-old tyrannosaurus rex, on display in DinoLand U.S.A.
  • October 2000: Rafiki’s Planet Watch premieres
  • December 2000: Safari Village renamed Discovery Island
  • June 4, 2001: Colobus Monkey Habitat Opens on Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (formerly Pangani Forest Trail)
  • October 2001: Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade premieres
  • November 2001: First phase of Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama opens with TriceraTop Spin attraction and midway games
  • April 18, 2002: Primeval Whirl opens at Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama
  • April 22, 2003: Plans announced for Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
  • May, 2005: Lucky the Dinosaur, the first Audio-Animatronics figure capable of walking and moving independently, makes special appearances
  • April 7, 2006: Expedition Everest opens
  • April 2006: Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund achieves $10 million milestone since its 1995 creation
  • January 2007: Grand opening for “Finding Nemo – the Musical”
  • April 22, 2007: Inaugural “Party for the Planet” event takes place on Earth Day
  • February 2008: Paws in the Park event. Disney’s Animal Kingdom/Animal Programs and Environmental Initiatives raises more than $13,000 for SPCA of Central Florida
  • April 2008: Jane Goodall Global Youth Summit visits the park on Earth Day
  • January 2011: Wild Africa Trek opens
  • June 2013: Wilderness Explorers program debuts to guests
  • June 1, 2014: Festival of the Lion King debuts in its new home, the brand new Harambe Theatre.
  • May 2015: Harambe Market opens.
  • May 2016: Tiffins restaurant and Nomad Lounge open, nighttime experiences debut – Harambe Wildlife Parti, Discovery Island Carnivale, Tree of Life Awakenings and nighttime version of Kilimanjaro Safaris
  • May 2016: The Jungle Book – Alive with Magic live show debuts
  • December 2016: Lion-tailed Macaques debut
  • February 2017: Rivers of Light debuts
  • May 27, 2017: Pandora – the World of Avatar opens
  • August 2017: Sumatran tiger cubs, Jeda and Anala, are born,
  • January 2017: Augustus, a baby hippo, is born
  • March, 2018: Contributions to Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund total $70 million since 1995
  • April, 2018: 20thAnniversary milestone marked with Party for the Planet Earth Day Celebration, premiere of UP! A Great Bird Adventure and debut of the Pandora Utility Suit

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!

FastPass+ for Toy Story Land Now Open to WDW Resort Hotel Guests

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (April 23, 2018) – (April 23, 2018) – The FastPass+ reservatoin window for Disney resort hotel guests is now open for attractions at thesoon-to-open (June 30) Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Disney Parks Blog reports:

We have thrilling news for those of you counting down the days until Toy Story

Buzz Lightyear, Sheriff Woody and Jessie the Yodeling Cowgirl from Disney Pixar’s “Toy Story” films will interact with guests in the new Toy Story Land when it opens June 30 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (David Roark, photographer)

Land opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 30 – FastPass+ reservations are now open for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

 

FastPass+ reservations are available for attractions in the land. Guests who are up to 60 days from their Walt Disney World Resort hotel check-in can choose one FastPass+ reservation for one of the Toy Story Land attractions, plus two other attractions in the park such as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and more, depending on availability.

But FastPass+ reservations are just one of the ways guests can experience Toy Story Land. Beginning July 1, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will also operate from 8 a.m-10:30 p.m. for a limited time. In addition, even more Extra Magic Hour opportunities will be available including daily morning Extra Magic Hours, plus evening Extra Magic Hours offered once per week.

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Form today!

 

Pixar Play Zone Now Open at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (April 17, 2018) – Kids, ages 4–12, can now star in an adventure-packed evening filled with interactive fun, arcade games and dinner. It’s all part of the new Pixar Play Zone that opened April 13 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Pixar Play Zone at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a nightly immersive childrenÕs experience that transports kids, ages 4-12, to a world of exciting adventures with their favorite characters from Disney Pixar animated films “Toy Story” and “The Incredibles!” The experience features an evening of interactive fun, arcade games and dinner. While the kids play, parents can enjoy their own getaway throughout Walt Disney World Resort. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

While the kids play, parents can enjoy their own getaway throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

The new Walt Disney World entertainment experience is a pilot program that takes place nightly from 6-10:30 p.m. It transports young guests to a world full of excitement and adventure with their favorite characters from Disney Pixar animated films “Toy Story” and “The Incredibles!”

Pixar Play Zone encompasses several elaborately themed spaces.

Big time fun awaits in The Living Room. There’s Space Ranger Training where kids learn what it takes to become a Jr. Space Ranger of Star Command, including how to master the call of the Space Ranger, “To infinity and beyond!”

Then, Woody and Jessie will show them the ropes of the Wild West during Woody’s Roundup – complete with a sing along for a rootin’ tootin’ good time.

Around the corner, toys of all kinds are waiting to play in Bonnie’s Play Room.

Radiator Springs Racetrack is where youngsters can build their own racecars and send them down a soapbox derby racetrack in the Piston Cup Derby Races.

The evening builds to an Incredibles Super Dance Party where kids learn super sweet moves with Mr. Incredible and Mrs. Incredible.

Doors open for registration at 5 p.m. nightly. Children must be toilet-trained. Activities and entertainment are subject to change.

The immersive Pixar Play Zone experience costs $65 plus tax per child. Availability is limited and reservations are strongly recommended, by calling 407-824- KIDS (5437).

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!

Tasty Meals with a Side of Sentimentality: Woody’s Lunch Box Puts Modern Spin on Timeless Menu Favorites

When Toy Story Land opens June 30 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Woody’s Lunch Box will serve up classic on-the-go menu items with a creative twist. A signature item, the lunch box tarts will be a modern interpretation of a breakfast toaster pastry as a hand-held dessert. (Disney)

 

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (April 16, 2018) – In the new Toy Story Land that opens June 30 at Walt Disney World Resortin Florida, the fun extends to food, and meal time comes with a heavy helping of nostalgia. Woody’s Lunch Box will serve up classic on-the-go menu items with a creative twist.

Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the new 11-acre land brings to life all the magic and fun of the hit Disney Pixar animated “Toy Story” franchise.  In this land – inspired by Andy’s backyard from the films – guests “shrink” to the size of a toy and set off for thrills and laughs on three signature attractions.

“Everyone has a special food memory, so it can be tricky putting a modern spin on the favorites,” explained Lenny DeGeorge, Concept Development Culinary Director for Walt Disney World.  “We honored these classic dishes by using the best ingredients to elevate the flavors. How we constructed the sandwiches was important, such as layering the ingredients in a specific order, to maximize textures and flavors. Why have a cold sandwich when you can have a toasted hot, gooey, cheese-filled one?”

Here’s a sampling of menu items. With apologies to mom, lunch box cuisine was never like this!

  • S’more French Toast breakfast sandwich.  Oozy goodness in a chocolate ganache- and marshmallow-stuffed French toast topped with graham cracker crumbles. Inspired by the classic American campfire treat.
  • Grilled three-cheese sandwich. To ensure a soft gooey middle, Disney chefs created a sharp cheddar cream cheese spread, layered in provolone and cheddar and wrapped the sandwich in garlic butter-grilled French bread.
  • BBQ brisket melt. With a nod to cowboy Woody, this Texas-style smoked brisket features cheddar, Monterey Jack, pickles, BBQ sauce and garlic butter-grilled sourdough.
  • Totchos. Bite-sized potato barrels, corn chips, chili and queso. ‘Nuf said.
  • Lunch box tarts. A modern interpretation of a breakfast toaster pastry as a hand-held dessert, these feature a uniquely delicate crust. Layer in high-quality ingredients for fillings, add a decorative garnish, and these tasty tarts beat anything mom packed. Choice of Raspberry Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Dried Fruit and Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Caramelized Bacon

Healthier menu options include:

  • Smoked turkey, tomato, and lettuce on multigrain bread. The quintessential lunch box sandwich. To give it a kick of flavor, Disney chefs add a creamy Dijonnaise.
  • Banana Split Yogurt Parfait. Layers of banana-vanilla Greek yogurt (with a hint of honey), fresh bananas, strawberries, and pineapple topped with granola and chocolate chips. A delicious way to start the day!
  • Other healthy options available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios include fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, and grilled meats and fish.

Also on the menu for lunch is a Monte Cristo. Woody’s version of this classic sandwich has layers of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and raspberry jam…and is grilled to a golden brown. Kids’ offerings include grilled cheese sandwich or turkey sandwich, both with potato barrels and mandarin oranges. Sides include tomato basil soup, vegetable macaroni salad, potato barrels and Mini Babybel® snack cheese, the official snack cheese of Walt Disney World Resort.

In addition to fountain drinks and refreshing lemonade, beverage offerings include a classic Barq’s root beer float and a Mystic Portal Punch (PowerAde Mountain Berry Blast with flavors of lemon-lime and tangerine). For the big kids there’s a Grown Up’s Lemonade with cherry vodka, Odwalla Lemonade, and black cherry purée.

Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will dish up nostalgia daily beginning June 30 from park open until the toys close up shop – that is, park close. Disney Dining Plan accepted.

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!

Pandora Utility Suit Will “AMP” Up the Excitement at Animal Kingdom Starting April 22

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (April 9, 2018) – A 4.2-ton, towering mechanical suit is sure to stop guests in their tracks when it debuts at Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on April 22. The new Pandora Utility Suit is inspired by the iconic Amplified Mobility Platform (AMP) suits of power armor from the epic film AVATAR.

Perched ten feet high, a human pilot straps into the cockpit of this exo-carrier and controls its powerful, yet agile movements. The giant walking suit was designed with articulated hands and a shoulder span of more than five feet. It also bears claw marks and battle scars from a Thanator – an alpha predator on Pandora.

But the Pandora Utility Suit was actually designed for restoration, while the film’s AMP suits were created for infantry missions of destruction. Its streamlined structure and technical upgrades make it the perfect tool to collect plant samples, study flora and survive Pandora’s wild terrain.

Like all the lands at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Pandora is rooted in nature. The Pandora Utility Suit showcases that in dramatic fashion. As the suit traverses the land daily, its pilot will interact with guests, share details about the land’s otherworldly landscape, and highlight the importance of preserving nature.

The Pandora Utility Suit continues the collaboration between Disney and Lightstorm Entertainment that first brought Pandora – The World of Avatar to life nearly a year ago. The suit will debut April 22 as part of the 20th anniversary celebration of Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.

 

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!

 

 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Honors Two Decades of Wild Encounters With 20th Anniversary Celebration on Earth Day

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 30, 2018) – Disney’s Animal Kingdom will mark its 20th anniversary on Earth Day, April 22, with more wild adventures than ever before – kicking off spring and setting the stage for an incredible summer filled with all-new events and experiences at  the Walt Disney World Resort.

Commemorating the milestone year, the 500-acre adventure park will offer animal encounters, family-friendly activities, specialty desserts and more during an expanded Party for the Planet celebration April 22-May 5.

Over the two-week “Party for the Planet” celebration, guests can attend conservation talks by animal-care experts and participate in enhanced interactions with some of the more than 2,000 animals that make their home at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited park.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch will take center stage for the year-long 20th anniversary. It’s home to fun educational exhibits and activities that help create awareness of animal issues. During the 20thanniversary, Rafiki’s Planet Watch will offer backstage experiences with experts where guests can learn about animal nutrition, visit the veterinary hospital and hear how Disney promotes global wildlife conservation.

Guests can also commemorate their visits to the theme park with special photo opportunities.  They can step into an oversized picture frame celebrating the park’s 20th anniversary. Other photo frames support Disney’s “Reverse the Decline,” an initiative created to help protect 10 threatened animal species. One recent success of the program was the birth of two critically endangered Sumatran Tiger Cubs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Just for kids is the chance to earn a limited-edition badge as part of the Wilderness Explorer program. The badge is one of many that youngsters can earn by completing fun activities throughout the park.

Party for the Planet will also include six different Tiffins Talks – themed dinners hosted by animal experts at Tiffins, the theme park’s signature, full-service restaurant. Watch the Disney Parks Blog for more information.

The 20th anniversary fun also includes a commemorative adventure guide, limited-edition merchandise, and a special-edition print created by renowned Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde. He will be available on April 22 from 1-4 p.m. to sign prints at Discovery Trading Company. Quantities are limited. For more information on Party for the Planet, visit Disneyworld.com/PartyforthePlanet.

Here are other experiences and adventures rolling out in 2018 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom:

  • April 22 will mark the debut of a brand-new show, UP! A Great Bird Adventure featuring Russell and Dug from the Disney•Pixar animated comedy-adventure film “UP.” The show will give guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his fuzzy friend Dug in a new adventure that includes encounters with exotic birds from around the world. This free-flying show will be performed multiple times daily.
  • A “dino-tastic” celebration with Donald and his friends will also premiere Memorial Day weekend in DinoLand, U.S.A. This dinosaur-themed party celebrates Donald Duck’s discovery that his bird ancestors were actually dinosaurs. DinoLand U.S.A. will feature colorful new décor and playful character greetings with rarely seen pals like Scrooge McDuck, Launchpad McQuack and more. A DJ-powered dance party will mix tunes from the truck-o-saurus stage, capping the nighttime festivities.
  • Memorial Day 2018 commemorates the one-year anniversary of Pandora – The World of Avatar. Here, travelers are transported to a mystical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and breathtaking new experiences. Inspired by the blockbuster film, AVATAR, the epic land invites guests to explore a glowing landscape, encounter a larger-than-life Na’vi Shaman of Songs and soar on the back of a banshee.

For more information about the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, visit DisneyWorld.com/AnimalKingdom.

 

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!

 

 

Tickets Now On Sale for Disney H2O Glow Nights at Typhoon Lagoon; “Toy Story” characters will “take over” water park for nighttime pool party starting June 21

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 25, 2018) – Guests can start making plans to join some of their favorite “Toy Story” characters during Disney H2O Glow Nights, the splashy new, nighttime pool party coming to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park this summer.

Tickets are on sale now for this after-dark event, which is part of an Incredible Summer coming to Walt Disney World Resort. Tickets are $55 plus tax for guests ages 10 and up, and $50 plus tax for children ages 3-9.

On Thursday and Saturday evenings, from June 21 to August 11, Rex and his “Toy Story” pals will transform Typhoon Lagoon like never before by throwing a glow party in the surf pool and throughout the park. Rex, a.k.a. Partysaurus Rex, will serve as host and invite guests of all ages to join the festivities. All attractions will be open for guest enjoyment and, as part of the fun, there will be special food and beverage offerings, “Toy Story” character greetings, a DJ dance party on the beach and more. Disney H2O Glow Nights also will feature The Wharf, a unique, adults-only area with a private bar, entertainment and additional seating. To purchase tickets and learn more about Disney H2O Glow Nights, call (407) 939-1872.

Disney H2O Glow Nights is one of many new and exciting experiences coming to Walt Disney World Resort as part of an Incredible Summer that will include:

  • The 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom including UP! A Great Bird Adventure beginning April 22 and Donald’s Dino-Bash! starting Memorial Day Weekend
  • The Incredible Tomorrowland Expo at Magic Kingdom Park featuring characters from “The Incredibles,” beginning May 25
  • The Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live! concert series at Epcot, beginning June 9
  • The launch of Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 30

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is a 60-acre themed water park – inspired by the legend of a typhoon, earthquake and volcanic eruption. As the story goes, those events combined to create an inland sea with break waves (Typhoon Lagoon) and a towering watershed mountain (Mt. Mayday) with a stranded shrimp boat (the Miss Tilly) on top.

The park offers water activities for all ages, including signature attractions such as the water-coaster Crush ‘n’ Gusher; the water playground, Ketchakiddee Creek; and the popular Castaway Creek, a meandering lazy river.

 

Remember, when planning for your next Disney Vacation, Griswold’s Magical Memoriesoffers the lowest prices available on rental of Deluxe Disney Vacation Club Villas at savings that are often more than 50% less than booking directly through Disney Central Reservations. Take a look at examples of actual savings our Vacationers have enjoyed, and then submit your Free, No Obligation Reservation Request Formtoday!