My First Disney Getaway Package for Walt Disney World Resort Now Available

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June 25, 2019

Are you looking to get a taste of the Walt Disney World® Resort with the little ones? The My First Disney Getaway Package gives you the perfect opportunity to enjoy the magic with an affordable getaway package price.

You can discover favorite and classic attractions at Magic Kingdom® Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park including the Mad Tea Party Tea Cups, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and TriceraTop Spin. You will also have the opportunity to meet Disney Character friends from beloved movies and TV shows, including Disney Princesses, Mickey Mouse, and his friends.

Plus, staying at a Disney Resort hotel immerses you in the magic and gives you access to complimentary benefits to maximize your time, including Extra Magic Hours, access to Disney FastPass+, complimentary transportation and more.

The Details:

For just $999, a family of 3 can enjoy a package that includes:

A 2-night stay in a standard room at a select Disney’s All-Star Resort
A 2-Park Magic Ticket valid for one-day-only admission to Magic Kingdom park and one-day-only admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park
One stroller rental per ticket day (subject to availability)
One merchandise bag that includes a plush, autograph book, pen, “My 1st Visit” Mickey ears and a reusable bag (all items are subject to availability and could be replaced with a similar item)

Valid for arrivals most Sunday to Wednesday nights August 11 to September 25, 2019. Book through September 24, 2019.

Price based on 2 adults and 1 child (ages 3 to 9). The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited and the offer is valid only for standard rooms at select Disney’s All-Star Resorts. The ticket is valid for one-day only admission to Magic Kingdom park and one-day-only admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. The ticket is valid beginning date of check-in and must be used within 4 days of check-in.

Important Information

One merchandise bag per reservation.
Stroller rental includes two (2) 1-day rentals valid only at Magic Kingdom park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park during the stay. The initial voucher provided must be presented at Magic Kingdom park or Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park stroller rental location to initiate rental and then a receipt will be provided for the remaining rental day. Type of stroller (single or double) will be provided based on availability.
Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
Advance reservations required.
Everyone in the same room must be on the same package

This package can only be booked through a travel agent. Please contact me for more info at [email protected].

New Experiences from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Coming to Disney D23 Expo 2019

By

Socalthrills Staff

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June 25, 2019

Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS) are gearing up for an exciting weekend of announcements and presentations and sharing never-before-seen footage, plus interactive displays, artist autograph signings, sharable photo opportunities, and giveaways for 2019’s D23 Expo in Anaheim, California.

This year, Pixar and WDAS will join forces with Disney’s live-action team, creating a thrilling Walt Disney Studios slate presentation that promises to wow Disney fans in Hall D23 with new announcements, surprise talent appearances, and sneak peeks of select scenes from the films.

GO BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS
Saturday, August 24, 10 a.m., Hall D23
As a part of The Walt Disney Studios presentation, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee and Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter will present never-before-seen footage, surprise announcements, musical performances, and appearances by all-star voice talent from the studios’ upcoming slate of animated films. Fans will get new looks at WDAS’ highly anticipated follow-up to 2013’s Oscar^®-winning feature film Frozen when directors Chris Buck, Lee, and producer Peter Del Vecho reveal new details about Frozen 2. Director Dan Scanlon and producer Kori Rae will introduce fans to the characters in Pixar’s upcoming original feature film Onward, while Docter and producer Dana Murray share details about next summer’s original feature Soul. Cell phones, cameras, and all recording devices will be checked for this presentation.

SHOW FLOOR
August 23–25, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
On the show floor, the two studios will once again team up for an immersive animation experience at D23 Expo. The studios’ upcoming slate of films, which include WDAS’ much-anticipated Frozen 2 and Pixar’s brand-new original feature film Onward, will be highlighted, including opportunities to meet the teams behind the movies and autograph signings of exclusive art and promotional item giveaways.

Pixar Animation Studios will also introduce fans to a real-life version of Guinevere, the van from their upcoming film Onward. Decked out with crescent moon windows and a “Pegacorn” (part Pegasus, part unicorn) painted on her sides, Guinevere will offer guests a taste of the adventure that two teenage elf brothers will embark upon in the movie.

ANIMATION PANELS

Sunday, August 25, 10 a.m., D23 Expo Arena.
The Little Mermaid: The 30th Anniversary Celebration! – Presented by H2O+
Fans of the classic film are invited to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of The Little Mermaid, recognized around the world as one of the greatest animated films of all time. Hosted by the voice of Ariel herself, Jodi Benson, it will be an unforgettable “Under the Sea” celebration.

Sunday, August 25, 12 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Hidden Gems of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library: Preserving and Inspiring the Disney Legacy
Fans will discover what it’s like to hold Disney history in their hands in this informative panel. The talented team at Walt Disney Animation Research Library (ARL) preserves millions of pieces of original Disney Animation art from Steamboat Willie to the films of today. Attendees will learn how the ARL shares these hidden gems, inspiring artists and audiences alike.

Sunday, August 25, 4 p.m., Stage 28.
World Premiere: Walt Disney Animation Studios Presents Short Circuit
In this exciting panel, Walt Disney Animation Studios will debut Short Circuit, an experimental short film program that will debut in Spring 2020 on Disney+. Talented artists and filmmakers will share their films for the first time anywhere and give behind-the-scenes insights.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Merchandise Selling Out Rapidly

By

Maverick Bohn

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June 24, 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is now open to the public and ready for an explosive summer that is sure to shatter expectations across the stars and beyond. Yet, with that popularity and demand, it appears that the newest Disney Parks expansion is having a difficult time keeping up in terms of their merchandise.

Since it opened May to limited reservation only crowds, the land has been selling product faster than Anakin can race his pod down the desert sands of Tatooine. Items have been quickly disappearing, such as Han’s lucky dice from Solo: A Star Wars Story as well as his handy card game, Sabacc. Yet, the huge surge of desire from fans for merchandise is finally starting to gain attention in bigger ways, as even more items are finding their way off the shelves and nowhere to be seen throughout Black Spire Outpost.

With limited stocks available, guests are now given the option to purchase Disney Parks brand lightsabers, with the same features as the Galaxy’s Edge legacy collection.

Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities is being hit the hardest, as they have now sold out of all available Kyber Crystals in addition to many of their prized legacy lightsabers. It has gotten to the point where Disney Parks labeled merchandise is being brought in to help relief the depleted stock piles.

Comparing the available legacy lightsaber collection on opening night of Galaxy's Edge reservation-only previews versus the land's public debut in June. — Comparing the available legacy lightsaber collection on opening night of Galaxy’s Edge reservation-only previews versus the land’s public debut in June.

As of June 24th’s public debut, guests can choose from Ahsoka Tano’s lightsaber duo, Darth Maul’s single blade, as well as the Jedi Temple Guard saber. All other models are completely sold out, with Cast Members alerting purchasers they are not sure when the popular replicas will be back in stock. For now, Disney Parks branded sabers will be sold for Kylo Ren, Rey, as well as Darth Vader. The models, which were previously available in Tomorrowland, have the same feature and design as their legacy counterparts.

Galaxy's Edge — This Porg looks a bit different than the rest!

In addition, some other Disney and Star Wars labeled items are finding their way into Batuu, including plush figures for Chewbacca and Porgs. Though there appear to be plenty of the beloved Last Jedi creatures in stock at the Creature Stall, the Disney branded items may be an indication that more and more items are selling fast. Help is on the way though, as Cast have confirmed that more shipments are being prepared for a trip to Galaxy’s Edge. Eager fans will have to wait in the meantime, which includes the return of Disney’s popular Galaxy’s Edge exclusive Batuuan Spira gift card. The unit was completely sold out prior to the land’s public debut, which demonstrates the full power of the fan base Disney is working to serve.

This Galaxy's Edge Exclusive Disney Gift Card is out of this world! — This Galaxy’s Edge Exclusive Disney Gift Card is out of this world and currently out of stock planet wide!

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge continues to provide plenty of surprises and it will be interesting to see how things play out in the coming weeks. Make sure to stay tuned for even more news from Black Spire Outpost and check out our full Galaxy’s Edge coverage!

May the Spires Keep You!

Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Opens to Surprisingly Small Crowds

By

Maverick Bohn

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June 24, 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has made its public debut at the Disneyland Resort, creating a shocking turn of events as the highly anticipated opening attracted lower than expected crowds. That’s not to say the land wasn’t met with a fervor, as droves of guests made their way to the resort at park opening to be some of the first to step foot in Batuu.

A drove of first entry guests sprinted towards the newly opened, Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run. — A drove of first entry guests sprinted towards the newly opened, Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run.

The lines were brought in just before standard opening at 8AM, already to a sold out reservation queue for Oga’s Cantina. Reservations opened up promptly at 7AM, taking less than a half hour to fully book for the day. For those who may not know, there is now a same-day reservation system in place for both Savi’s Workshop and Oga’s Cantina. Each reservation grants guests the ability to enter Galaxy’s Edge an hour earlier than their start time, which may have helped in maintaining the crowds throughout the day, turning what could have been madness into a manageable lull.

Reservations are now required to experience both Oga's Cantina and Savi's Workshop. — Reservations are now required to experience both Oga’s Cantina and Savi’s Workshop.

Following into the land, Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run was met with a massive line that quickly stretched all the way around towards the Droid Depot, bringing the initial wait time up to 190 minutes. The wait time, which is a massive increase in wait in comparison to the reservation-only previews, did not last long, as the ride steadily made its way back to a manageable 60-90 minute wait. Though the line would surge throughout the day, the line’s newly introduced extended queue was not heavily used. Despite that, it did give fans their first look at the new extension, which is minimalist in design compared to the immersive nature of the land itself. Equipped with a Coke stand and Disney Play App features, the extended queue appears to be much larger, which may or may not be needed in future weeks.

A look at the new extended queue for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run. — A look at the new extended queue for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run.

It will be hard to predict how the crowds will manage leading into the busier holidays and weekend peaks, but if this debut has shown us anything, is that Disney prepared for the worst and managed to pull off a surprise that only Disney could produce. It appears Disney’s past land debut experiences have taught them exactly what was needed to keep things under control, especially with the recent debuts of Toy Story Land in Walt Disney World, Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout in Disney California Adventure, as well as the legendary wait times produced by Cars Land in the summer of 2012.

With Cast Members being blocked out from the resort, Annual Pass block outs in full effect, as well as the land’s new virtual queue system in place, there are a lot of safeguards that didn’t exist even a year ago. Rather than stand in a general line and hope for the best, guests now are granted the ability to create a virtual place in line, being alerted when it’s their turn to enter the world of Batuu. Thankfully, the system worked without a hitch, making the process smooth and easy leading into the early afternoon.

Yet, all of that proved unnecessary towards the second half of the day. To everyone’s surprise, Disney announced that their virtual queue would be temporarily halted, allowing any and all guests to enter Galaxy’s Edge. Cast Members were given lifted block out dates as well. The effect is astounding, and it definitely creates a ripple that will be felt throughout the Disneyland Resort if this trend continues.

Wait times resort wide were lower than expected. prompting those to ask the question: What comes next?

Wait times everywhere were best described as “a walk on” for many E-Ticket attractions including Hyperspace Mountain, Star Tours, The Incredicoaster, as well as Radiator Springs Racers. Racers was posted at a 25 minute wait towards the later half of the afternoon, leaving some faces stunned in disbelief. The attraction, which is well known for posting 2 hour plus wait times, had finally met its match. The torch has been passed, and it will be interesting to see how it all comes together going into the heat of the summer and holiday seasons. The future, it seems, is just beginning.

There is more Galaxy’s Edge fun to explore. Make sure to check out our full coverage and stay tuned for more exciting content, photos, video, and more. Til the spire!

Tickets Now on sale for Disney’s New “The Lion King”

By

Socalthrills Staff

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June 24, 2019

Tickets are now on sale for “The Lion King,” the Jon Favreau-helmed feature film that brings treasured characters to the big screen in a whole new way. The film, like the original 1994 version, features unforgettable music by an award-winning team, including Oscar and GRAMMY-winning superstar Elton John and Oscar and GRAMMY-winning lyricist Tim Rice, who’ve written an uplifting new song, “Never Too Late,” performed by John, that features an African choir and will appear in the film’s end credits and also on the Walt Disney Records original motion picture soundtrack. The digital soundtrack is set for release at 8 a.m. PDT on July 11, and the physical album is now available for pre-order and set for release on July 19, the same day “The Lion King” opens in U.S. theaters.

“Just hearing that music strikes you deeply,” Favreau said. “Even if you don’t know the film or stage show, there is spiritual strength in it. But if you know the film, and if you grew up with this music now it can suddenly and immediately evoke the story itself, as well as all the connected memories and emotions that you have from your own past experience with ‘The Lion King,’ or from the time of your life that you were in, or your childhood, or the life events it’s connected to.”

Added Mitchell Leib, president of music & soundtracks for The Walt Disney Studios, “The incredible musical talents who came together to contribute to this project are unparalleled. Jon Favreau’s deep love and instinct for a musical collaboration inspired Hans Zimmer, Lebo M, Pharrell Williams, Elton John, Tim Rice, Beyoncé, Donald Glover, and the entire music team to an awesome level of generosity, spirit and commitment, resulting in a powerful journey of song, production and performance.”

“The Lion King” original motion picture soundtrack features new recordings of the original songs written by Elton John and Tim Rice, score by Oscar® and GRAMMY®-winning composer Hans Zimmer, plus African vocal and choir arrangements by GRAMMY-winning South African producer and composer Lebo M (Rhythm of the Pride Lands). Oscar-nominated and GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter and producer Pharrell Williams (“Hidden Figures”/producer, “Happy”), produced five songs on the soundtrack.

In revisiting the score for “The Lion King,” Zimmer realized the original themes and music were the “emotional spine of the story.” He brought back many who worked on the original film, including Lebo M, orchestrator Bruce Fowler, conductor Nick Glennie-Smith, arranger Mark Mancina, plus several singers from the choir including Carmen Twillie (who performed “Circle of Life” in the 1994 movie).

Zimmer wanted to approach the score differently for the new film and enlisted the Re-Collective Orchestra (led by founders Matt Jones and Stephanie Matthews), along with the Hollywood Studio Symphony (comprised of Los Angeles-based session players), and his band. The goal was to rehearse and record the score like a live concert performance.

Music from the animated film released in 1994 won two Academy Awards® (original song and original score), four GRAMMYS® and two Golden Globes®. The soundtrack was No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart for 10 nonconsecutive weeks and was certified Diamond by the RIAA, for 10 million units sold.

“The Lion King” original motion picture soundtrack tracklist follows.

“Circle of Life”/“Nants’ Ingonyama” – Performed by Lindiwe Mkhize; African vocals performed by Lebo M; written and composed by Elton John and Tim Rice; “Nants’ Ingonyama” written by Lebohang Morake and Hans Zimmer; produced by Hans Zimmer; vocals produced by Stephen Lipson
“Life’s Not Fair” – Hans Zimmer
“Rafiki’s Fireflies” – Hans Zimmer
“I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” – Performed by JD McCrary, Shahadi Wright Joseph and John Oliver; written by Elton John and Tim Rice; produced by Pharrell Williams; co-produced by Stephen Lipson
“Elephant Graveyard” – Hans Zimmer
“Be Prepared” (2019 Version) – Performed by Chiwetel Ejiofor; written by Elton John and Tim Rice; produced by Hans Zimmer and David Fleming
“Stampede” – Hans Zimmer
“Scar Takes the Throne” – Hans Zimmer
“Hakuna Matata” – Performed by Billy Eichner, Seth Rogen, JD McCrary and Donald Glover; written by Elton John and Tim Rice; produced by Pharrell Williams; co-produced by Stephen Lipson
“Simba is Alive!” – Hans Zimmer
“The Lion Sleeps Tonight” – Performed by Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen; written by Luigi Creatore, Hugo Peretti, George David Weiss and Solomon Linda; produced by Pharrell Williams
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” – Performed by Beyoncé, Donald Glover, Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen; written by Elton John and Tim Rice; produced by Pharrell Williams; co-produced by Stephen Lipson
“Reflections of Mufasa” – Hans Zimmer
TBA
“Battle for Pride Rock” – Hans Zimmer
“Remember” – Hans Zimmer
“Never Too Late” – Performed by Elton John; African vocal and choir arrangements created and produced by Lebo M; written by Elton John and Tim Rice; produced by Greg Kurstin; additional production by Elton John and Matt Still
“He Lives in You” – Performed by Lebo M; written by Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin and Lebohang Morake; produced by Lebo M and Mark Mancina
“Mbube” – Performed by Lebo M; African vocal and choir arrangements created and produced by Lebo M; written by Solomon Linda; produced by Pharrell Williams

“The Lion King” original motion picture soundtrack is produced by Hans Zimmer and Jon Favreau. The physical album is now available for pre-order.

Source: Disney

The Simpsons are coming to D23 Expo 2019 in Anaheim!

By

Socalthrills Staff

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June 24, 2019

The longest-running primetime scripted show in television history, The Simpsons, makes its first appearance at D23 Expo. Get insight on the upcoming all-new season in a lively panel Saturday, August 24 at 10 a.m. in the D23 Expo Arena with Creator Matt Groening, Executive Producer Al Jean, Executive Producer Matt Selman, Supervising Director Mike B. Anderson, and stars Nancy Cartwright and Yeardley Smith. Expect lots of surprises, including an exclusive Simpsons collectible item for everyone in attendance.

The Simpsons exploded into a cultural phenomenon in 1990 and have remained one of the most groundbreaking and innovative entertainment franchises, recognizable throughout the world. Recently finishing its historic 30th season, The Simpsons has won 33 Emmy^® Awards, 34 Annie Awards, 9 Environmental Media Awards, 7 People’s Choice Awards and 12 Writers Guild of America Awards including the 2019 Outstanding Writing in an Animated Program Award. It was the first animated series to win a Peabody Award and was nominated for an Academy Award^® in 2012 for the theatrical short “The Longest Daycare.” The Simpsons Movie was a hit feature film, the mega-attraction The Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios has received historic expansion updates with the addition of “Springfield,” and the show was honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2000. It has been named the “Best Show of the 20th Century” by Time magazine and called the “Best TV Show Ever” by Vulture in 2016.

During the D23 Expo, The Simpsons fans will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with Bart, Lisa, and the rest of The Simpsons family on the convention floor. A few lucky fans will even get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet Matt Groening and the rest of the panelists during a one-hour autograph signing session of an exclusive The Simpsons mini-poster following the panel.

Pixar Pier Celebrates Imagination at Disney California Adventure Park

By

Robbie Bulus

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June 23, 2019

First Look: Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind at Disney California Adventure Park — Credit: Disney

All things Pixar are celebrated in an even larger way at the Disneyland Resort since Pixar Pier debuted at Disney California Adventure Park on June 23, 2018. Celebrating its first anniversary in summer 2019, this themed land will open Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, a new attraction that takes guests on a “sense-ational” spin. That will complete all four imaginative neighborhoods, where beloved Pixar stories and characters come to life with the thrilling Incredicoaster, Jessie’s Critter Carousel and Pixar Pal-A-Round attractions, along with Pixar-inspired food, the Lamplight Lounge, plus exciting entertainment and more.

Guests enter the wonderful worlds of Pixar through a dazzling marquee that leads to four whimsical neighborhoods at this seaside waterfront. The first themed neighborhood is Incredibles Park, inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and home to the Incredicoaster, the first ride-through attraction in the world to feature beloved characters from “The Incredibles” franchise. The Incredicoaster takes guests on a super adventure with the Parr family to chase after the elusive baby Jack-Jack, a storyline that will connect with fans of Disney and Pixar’s film, “Incredibles 2,” which opened in theaters June 15. New music, lighting, special effects, exciting character figures, and distinctively colored vehicles add to the thrills on this super-speedy coaster, the fastest attraction at the Disneyland Resort.

Adjacent to Incredibles Park is Toy Story Boardwalk, a neighborhood with the popular Toy Story Mania! attraction and its 4D carnival games. On Jessie’s Critter Carousel, guests of all ages may hop aboard a sweet woodland creature inspired by the vintage television show, “Woody’s Roundup” from “Toy Story 2,” and go for a spin.

Next to Toy Story Boardwalk is the charming seaside Pixar Promenade, which celebrates a collection of favorite Pixar stories. The iconic Mickey’s Fun Wheel has been transformed to the Pixar Pal-A-Round, taking guests up high to enjoy the beautiful sights of Pixar Pier from 24 freshly-decorated gondolas – each one adorned with a Pixar pal. Pixar Promenade also features the new Games of Pixar Pier, where guests can test their skills and win a prize at colorful pay-for-play game booths: La Luna Star Catcher, Heimlich’s Candy Corn Toss, WALL•E Space Race and Bullseye Stallion Stampede. Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff is also in Pixar Promenade, offering delightful confections such as saltwater taffy, rainbow cotton candy and Memory Makers.

Just past Pixar Promenade is Inside Out Headquarters. Inspired by Disney and Pixar’s film “Inside Out,” this neighborhood features another new family-friendly attraction, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind. Guests will hop aboard one of eight Memory Movers to help Riley’s emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear – sort through the memories being collected. To complement the playful atmosphere, Academy Award-winning composer Michael Giacchino collaborated with Walt Disney Imagineering to create five music tracks, one for each of Riley’s emotions.

Fans looking for food and beverage with a side of story will enjoy the new Lamplight Lounge, an elegant yet fun gathering place for the entire family near the entrance of Pixar Pier. Lamplight Lounge serves a new menu of California casual gastro-pub cuisine that is playfully presented, along with unique signature cocktails. The seaside lounge contains a full bar with picturesque waterfront views of Paradise Bay from both upstairs and downstairs. On Saturdays and Sundays, Lamplight Lounge is serving brunch in the downstairs dining room from park open to noon. To book reservations, guests may call 714 781-DINE (714 781-3463) or visit Disneyland.com.

Lamplight Lounge celebrates the creativity, inspiration, and personalities of the artists and storytellers who have brought Pixar stories to life. Guests will discover the artistic marks that Pixar “regulars” have left throughout the lounge, including concept art, a quick sketch on a coaster, memorabilia and collectible toys of beloved Pixar characters. Along with lunch and dinner, guests are also enjoying brunch on Saturdays and Sundays at Lamplight Lounge.

Creative food and beverage locations extend all along Pixar Pier, with stories and menu items inspired by Pixar films. Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats, already a fan favorite, is inspired by the lovable and not-at-all-abominable monster from “Monsters, Inc.” and it serves delicious soft-serve cones and parfaits. Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums in Incredibles Park features baby Jack-Jack’s favorite treat for guests to enjoy. At Toy Story Boardwalk, guests will sample the fare at Poultry Palace and Señor Buzz Churros. Poultry Palace, which looks like the fun, oversized meal box and juice box featured in the Pixar short, “Toy Story Toon: Small Fry,” offers delicious turkey legs and chicken drumsticks. Señor Buzz Churros offers the quintessential Disneyland Resort treat. Further along the path at Pixar Promenade, guests discover Anger from “Inside Out” at Angry Dogs, a spot where the more Anger burns with rage, the hotter the hot dogs get.

The remaining areas of the original Paradise Pier, including Paradise Gardens, Silly Symphony Swings, Jumping Jellyfish, Goofy’s Sky School, Golden Zephyr, and The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure has become a new land called Paradise Gardens Park.

Source: Disney

Star Wars Celebration Anaheim Tickets Sell Out in Record Fashion

By

Maverick Bohn

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June 22, 2019

Star Wars Celebration Anaheim tickets went on sale this past Friday, sparking a mass frenzy for Star Wars fans across the galaxy with tickets selling out almost instantly. As expected, the Jedi Master VIP package sold out in less than a minute after ticket sales went live at 9AM PST; however, what took many by surprise was the fact that the event’s 4 day ticket tier sold out shortly after, setting a new record and precedent for what’s to come.

Adult 4 day tickets sold out in less than two hours, with Saturday Adult tickets selling out later in the afternoon. This is a drastic change from when Star Wars Celebration visited Anaheim in 2015. When ticket sales began, it took several month’s for the event to sell out multi-day passes, let alone single day event badges.

With Celebration Anaheim 2020, those days are long behind us, showcasing a new trend that can be best described as a double edged lightsaber. On the one end, the rapid sellout showcases the fervor and growing popularity of the Star Wars event with the core fans, while on the other, frustration looms over those who were not able to budget or set time aside to secure a ticket to the big event next August.

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4-Day Tickets and Jedi Master Packages are now completely SOLD OUT! Other ticket types are still available and selling fast. https://bit.ly/2WXLKy8 #StarWarsCelebration #StarWars

A post shared by Star Wars Celebration (@starwarscelebration) on Jun 21, 2019 at 10:57am PDT

The wave of change is just one of many, following in the footsteps of this year’s Celebration in Chicago, which included a brand new lottery based reservation system as well as a more app dependent experience. Next year will usher in more of the same, with the lottery system moving forward for major panels and exclusive merchandise offerings. One thing remains clear, Star Wars Celebration is breaking beyond the niche convention it started as in 1999 and is soon becoming one of the most powerful forces in the con circuit, bringing with it a fresh perspective, growing pains, and plenty of opportunities for improvements.

Star Wars Celebration Main Stage at Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019

For those still looking to purchase tickets, please visit Star Wars Celebration’s official site. Remaining tickets will sell fast, but there will be an official resale opportunity in the future. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to the big event and May the Force be with you!

Star Wars Celebration Anaheim will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center from August 27th-August 30th 2020.

D23 Expo 2019 Turns Up Excitement with Disney Music Emporium

By

Maverick Bohn

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June 21, 2019

D23 Expo will welcome Tyler Bates in a Disney Music Emporium Exclusive signing.

Disney Music Emporium is returning to this year’s D23 Expo, bringing with it an epic lineup of legendary artists, exclusive products, and fun musical musings for the whole family. This will include vinyl albums, die-cut picture disc vinyl collections, cassette tapes, Crosley turntables, and much more.

D23 will also feature the ability to pre order the Matthew Morrison Disney album, along with 23 other unique offerings. Ten of those titles will be a market first, including John Williams’ iconic Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Symphonic Suite and Alan Silvestri’s Avengers:Endgame on a 12″ picture disc.

D23 Expo will introduce the first copies of Avengers: Endgame on picture disc vinyl.

This year will also bring a 3 day roster of exclusive signings, including Disney Legend, Randy Newman, who most recently worked his magic on Toy Story 4, Guardians of the Galaxy composer Tyler Bates, as well as Coco star, Anthony Gonzalez. Gonzalez, who voiced Miguel, will also be joined by JD McCrary who voiced young Simba in The Lion King.

Disney-Pixar's Coco. — Disney-Pixar’s Coco.

It’s all part of many of this year’s D23 Expo’s exclusive reveals, and with the convention only a couple of month’s away, the excitement continues to grow. Make sure to stay tuned for all that’s coming your way at this year’s D23 Expo. You can learn all about the event as well as purchase any remaining ticket options by visiting the official site!

Fun and Relaxation at Pala Casino Spa & Resort

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

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June 20, 2019

pala pic — Pala Casino Spa & Resort is a relaxing getaway in San Diego County (photo by Greg Aragon)

I hit the jackpot recently at Pala Casino Spa & Resort in San Diego County. I didn’t win any money, but I did stay in an awesome hotel room, dine at a couple of great restaurants, and experience the resort’s stunning, new pool area.

The getaway began when a friend and I checked into a gorgeous 4th-floor suite in Pala’s AAA Four-Diamond hotel, overlooking the nearby Palomar Mountains. Elegant and welcoming, the room boasted a comfy king bed, big flat screen TV, office area with free Internet, a large bathroom with walk-in shower and tub, a mini-fridge and coffee maker and a large, relaxing chair.

Once acquainted with the room, we took the elevator down to the lobby and walked outside to paradise at the resort’s sparkling adults-only pool plaza. Set beneath the Palomar Mountains, the area boasts five heated pools and 14 luxury cabanas, along with waterfalls, fire pits, deck chairs, Jacuzzis, and floating daybeds, all scattered about a beautiful outdoor courtyard. There is also a full-service poolside café & bar.

The poolside cabanas – available for rent – are very inviting. They come with personalized pool attendant service, refrigerator stocked with waters and assorted sodas, 49″ HDTV, Wi-Fi, personal safe, sofa, armchair, and chaise lounge. They must be covered during the summer.

After swimming, sipping a couple Bloody Mary’s and relaxing beside the pool, we headed for lunch at Choices, The Buffet. As Pala’s signature buffet, the expansive, buffet-style restaurant features a dining area capable of accommodating 625 guests.

Highlighted by a complete exhibition kitchen, Choices offers over 200 different hot and cold food options including dishes from Asia, Italy, Mexico as well as traditional American favorites, salads, an omelet station and a wide variety of mouthwatering desserts made fresh here at Pala. Every Monday Tuesday & Wednesday, Choices offers a snow crab buffet, and on Thursday they put on a lobster buffet.

With my belly full on crab legs, pork nachos, salad, and cheesecake, I left Choices and hit the slot machines. Pala Casino Spa & Resort is known as one of San Diego County’s premier casino destinations. The place boasts a Las Vegas-style casino with more than 2,250 state-of-the-art slot and video machines, 84 table games, and an 8-table poker room that hosts live play and championship tournaments.

I played the 25-cent slots for about an hour and walked away pretty much even, but if you count the great, free entertainment from the live cover band playing above the bar, I think I came out ahead.

From the casino, I visited the fitness center to work off some calories before dinner. Located next to the resort’s 11,000-sq-ft full-service Spa, the gym offers state-of-the-art treadmills, stair-climbers, recumbent bikes, weight machines, and free weights. It is open 24 hours a day for hotel guests.

After working out I met my friend for a delicious dinner at Bar Meets Grill restaurant. The California casual cuisine eatery serves a wide variety of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and salads, as well as a selection of pasta and entrée options created by Chef Anila. Our dinner began with a jumbo shrimp cocktail and a glass of merlot. For the main course, I had succulent bourbon short ribs with garlic chips with sweet red cabbage and horseradish potato. My friend devoured seared rib eye steak with mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus.

The next morning we drove less a mile to the historic San Antonio de Pala Asistencia, also known as “Pala Mission.” Founded in 1816 as an outpost to the larger Mission San Luis Rey in nearby Oceanside, Pala Mission was part of the Spanish mission system. Today it is located on the Pala Indian Reservation and is the It is the only historic mission facility still serving a Mission Indian tribe.

The little mission features a museum, gift shop, gardens, cemetery, and a chapel. Its belltower is said to be the only freestanding one of its kind among all the California missions. Across the street from the asistencia, is Pala Store, a charming little market opened in 1897.

Back at Pala Resort, we spent the morning at the pool. Next to the pool is the 2,400- sq-ft Starlight Theatre stage, which hosts top-name outdoor concerts on the resort lawn. Upcoming shows on the stage include Foreigner on Thursday, June 13; Latin Legends featuring El Chicano, Tierra, Malo And Thee Midniters on Saturday, June 29; and Styx on Friday, July 26.

Pala Casino Resort Spa is located at 11154 HWY 76, Pala, 92059. For more info and current specials, call 1-877-WIN-PALA or visit: www.palacasino.com

Disney and Pixar’s All-New Feature Film “Soul” Coming to Theaters Summer 2020

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 19, 2019

Pixar Animation Studios has revealed details about “Soul,” its second original feature film slated for theaters in 2020.

Following the March 6 opening of “Onward,” Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” hits theaters one year from today on June 19, 2020. Ever wonder where your passion, your dreams, and your interests come from? What is it that makes you… YOU?

In 2020, Pixar Animation Studios takes you on a journey from the streets of New York City to the cosmic realms to discover the answers to life’s most important questions.

“Soul” is directed by two-time Academy Award® winner Pete Docter (“Up,” “Inside Out”) and produced by Academy Award® nominee Dana Murray (“Lou” short).

Know Before You Go! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Beginning June 24

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 19, 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has been sharing the unique sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Batuu with off-worlders with reservations since May 31. As this epic new land opens starting June 24, there is so much to see and do including strolling the Black Spire Outpost Marketplace, tasting blue or green milk and taking the controls of the Millennium Falcon.

Here are some great tips to help plan your visit to the far-flung destination of Batuu, beginning June 24!

Boarding Groups

For guests wishing to live out Star Wars adventures and access Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge beginning June 24, Disneyland Resort may utilize a virtual queuing system, as needed, to help everyone have a great experience. Be sure you download the Disneyland app before arriving and check the app or signage the day of your visit to find out if you will need to be part of a boarding group to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge that day. The boarding group will save you a virtual spot in line so that you can enjoy other experiences while you wait to be notified of a time to enter.*

You may use the Disneyland app to request to be part of a boarding group after entering Disneyland park, if implemented that day. Simply link the theme park tickets of everyone in the party together on the app to request the same boarding group for the entire party. To see which boarding group is currently being admitted to the land, look on the app or digital signage in the park.

If you enable push notifications on your mobile device, you will be notified when it is time to enter the land. If not, you can continue to check the Disneyland app or digital signage in the park, and enjoy other experiences, while awaiting their boarding group. You will have up to two hours to enter the land after your boarding group is called for admission, so there is no rush!

If you are not using the Disneyland app, a boarding group may be obtained with a park admission ticket at some Disney FASTPASS Service locations, such as Haunted Mansion, Indiana Jones Adventure, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain or near the Matterhorn Bobsleds.

Reservations for Savi’s Workshop and Oga’s Cantina

Beginning June 24, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will no longer require a reservation to access the land, although reservations will be required for Savi’s Workshop and Oga’s Cantina, which have very limited capacities. Guests wishing to book a reservation for these experiences may do so on the same day of their visit, beginning at 7 a.m., with a valid credit card. Reservations for both experiences will allow access into Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at the time of the reservation, so it will not be necessary to join a boarding group, if applicable, to enter the land to participate in a reserved experience. Please visit Disneyland.com/SavisWorkshop and Disneyland.com/Cantina for important details.

Make the most of your visit to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge by planning ahead with these new innovative digital planning tools to access Batuu, resulting in more time to enjoy the Disneyland Resort!

*Admission to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is subject to capacity and joining a boarding group does not guarantee entry.

Source: Disney

Socalthrills.com

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