Pink looks fantastic on Monopoly too! Hasbro has announced and launched the pre-order for a brand-new Monopoly: Barbie Edition board game – right on the heels of the record-setting Barbie film release.
Monopoly players can imagine slipping into pink Barbie shoes as they follow their dreams to own it all! Be fully immersed in Barbie’s world with up to 6 Barbie-inspired tokens in her signature pink color, then travel the board and purchase famous locations in the Barbie dream world – where you can eventually even build your own DreamHouses!
Fans can pre-order the new Monopoly: Barbie Edition Game on Amazon now (click here to order) and purchase the game at most major retailers starting October 1.
Monopoly: Barbie Edition Game
(Ages 8 years & up/Players: 2-6/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available for pre-order on Amazon August 1, 2023; Most major retailers October 1, 2023)
Be anything with Barbie! With the Monopoly: Barbie Edition board game, players can imagine slipping into pink Barbie shoes as they follow their dreams to own it all!
First, players choose from 6 Barbie-inspired zinc tokens in her signature color, pink: Dog, Show, Sportscar, Speedboat, Roller Skate, and Barbie herself.
Then, each player selects a Be Anything card to choose from 6 Barbie careers before they travel the board and purchase famous locations in the Barbie dream world and build their own DreamHouses.
If they roll a “B” with the Barbie die, they can flex their unique Be Anything skill, giving them an edge over opponents. Live out career and fashion goals by drawing Dream Career and Dream Closet cards. With convertibles, campers, cute pups and more, you can own it all, express yourself, and live your dreamiest dream with MONOPOLY: Barbie Edition!
Vertical has set a date for the North American release of the supernatural horror-mystery Haunting of the Queen Mary by Dracula Untold director Gary Shore. The film, previously titled The Queen Mary, is a psychological horror that explores the mysterious and violent events surrounding one family’s voyage on Halloween night (1938) and their interwoven destiny with another family onboard the infamous ocean liner present day.
Vertical has slated Haunting of the Queen Mary for release on August 18, 2023. The film will be released in select theaters and On Demand the same day.
Haunting of the Queen Mary stars Alice Eve (Star Trek Into Darkness, Belgravia), Joel Fry (Cruella, Game of Thrones), Nell Hudson (Texas Chainsaw Massacre), William Shockley (Death in Texas), and BAFTA award-winner Lenny Rush (Am I Being Unreasonable?).
Stephen Oliver and Tom Vaughan penned the script with revisions by Shore. The film is produced by Brett Matthew Tomberlin (Winchester) of Imagination Design Works; Thorsten Schumacher of Rocket Science; Lars Sylvest; Nigel Sinclair and Nicholas Ferrall of White Horse Pictures (The Woman in Black); and Mali Elfman.
Shooting of the film took place aboard the actual Queen Mary in Long Beach, California. A luxury ocean-liner graced by generations of the rich and famous, HMS Queen Mary is now celebrated – and feared – as “One of the World’s Most Haunted Places” (Time Magazine). In the early twentieth century, shipping lines competed to be the fastest to complete a transatlantic crossing.
But among the most famous record-holders was the RMS Queen Mary, which held the record for fourteen years, but now stands encased in concrete at Long Beach, California, where it has been used for many years as a luxury hotel and tourist attraction. The ship has a lengthy history of visitors reporting seeing ghosts and visions in its rooms and on its decks, making it the perfect setting for paranormal goings-on on the big screen.
Calling all pizza-loving, crime-fighting Turtles fans! BoxLunch, the pop culture retailer with a cause, is launching its latest merchandise collection, inspired by the classic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic books and the original animated series.
Apparel, including T-shirts, raglan tees, and the iconic pizza Turtles flannel, feature all four Turtles and their love for cheesy pizza. A matching woven shirt and shorts set add a stylish summer look that transports fans back to the classic era of their favorite anthropomorphic Turtle brothers.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles nostalgia doesn’t stop there. Fans can choose their favorite Turtle to accent their look with character-specific socks and hats featuring Donatello, Raphael, Michelangelo, or Leonardo. Add character, pizza box, and spinning pizza pins to accessorize and complete any look.
An assortment of housewares, including Donatello, Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Raphael character pillows, will add a touch of TMNT magic to any home. Fans can enjoy a bowl of delicious ramen in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ramen bowl or create recipes from the exclusive Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles pizza cookbook that comes with a character apron, served up in a pizza box. For those sunny days, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles car sunshade will protect vehicles while showcasing their Turtle Power pride.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collection is now available in participating BoxLunch stores nationwide and online at https://boxlun.ch/TMNT
Disney Games, in collaboration with developer Dlala Studios, launch Disney Illusion Island globally, a local cooperative 2D platform adventure video game for up to four players, exclusively for Nintendo Switch.
Experience a brand-new adventure as players join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy on a whimsical journey through the island of Monoth. Explore this beautiful yet mysterious world to recover the three magical Tomes – powerful books used to protect the island. Disney Illusion Island gives players the chance to be a part of an authentic Mickey & Friends adventure with an original story, stunning hand-drawn animation, and an original fully orchestrated score by Ivor Novello and BAFTA-nominated composer Dave Housden.
“Disney Illusion Island marks Mickey Mouse’s return to video games and we’re honored to bring this one-of-a-kind adventure to the Nintendo Switch,” said Luigi Priore, VP, of Disney, Pixar, and 20th Century Games. “We’re excited to see gamers jump in and explore the wonderfully hand-crafted world of Monoth with their friends and family.”
Featuring the authentic voice actors of Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy, Disney Illusion Island brings everyone together. Whether playing solo or teaming with up to three friends, in local co-op players will perform high-flying platforming feats, uncover secrets, and take on epic boss encounters. There is always something new to discover in the expansive world of Monoth as players uncover the mystery of the stolen Tomes.
“Disney Illusion Island has been an absolute career high for myself and the studio,” said Aj Grand-Scrutton, Creative Director/CEO, of Dlala Studios. “We have absolutely loved bringing Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy back in a brand-new 2D platforming adventure and we can’t wait for players to join us in the world of Monoth!”
Disney Illusion Island is now available for $39.99, exclusively for Nintendo Switch on the Nintendo eShop and at retail, beginning today.
Halloween is fast approaching and D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is here to help you make the most of this frightfully fantastic season with a lineup of scream-worthy events—tailor-made for the ultimate Disney fans.
It’s almost that time of the year—stocked full of delicious candy, with endless celebrations of the autumn season… when the worlds of mischief, magic, and the macabre all collide in a spectacle of spine-tingling fun.
Disney+ Hallowstream Costume Bash at Destination D23—September 10, 2023
Destination D23 ticketholders will have the opportunity to usher in the eeriest time of year with an epic Halloween happening, closing out the festivities of the Ultimate Disney Fan Event of the year. Enter the world of Hallowstream with Disney+, the streaming home of your favorite Halloween stories. With phantomized photo-ops, chilling treats, and spellbinding surprises, guests will find all their hearts’ desires in this lavish lair of scares happening only at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World.
Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival with D23—October 5, 2023
This Halloween, the legend comes to life! D23 is “heading” into the terror-ific town of Sleepy Hollow, New York, for the Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival—bringing a special presentation from Becky Cline, director of the Walt Disney Archives; she’ll be joined by Tim O’Day, Disney Author and longtime D23 contributor. It’ll knock your socks (and perhaps heads) clean off. More details to be shared soon.
D23 Black Flame Ball: Spell-ebrating 30 Years of Hocus Pocus—October 7, 2023
Form a calming circle and ready your brooms, mops, and vacuums… D23 is headed back to Salem for a bewitching All Hallows’ Eve Ball! “Spell-ebrate” 30 years of Hocus Pocus with us at a Sanderson-style soiree in the storied city of Salem, Massachusetts. This enchanted event will feature inspired entertainment, reminiscent of the iconic Halloween party from the film. And it wouldn’t be a Halloween happening unless the Sanderson sisters themselves arrived to crash the festivities in ferocious fashion. Sure to put a spell on all in attendance, this is one candlelit costumed confab you won’t want to miss. We ain’t lyin’!
Tim Burton’sThe Nightmare Before Christmas 30th Anniversary with D23—October 13, 2023
What’s this? Just a celebration of an iconic Halloween/Holiday classic, on the anniversary date itself! D23 invites fans and stans of every age to join us for a nightmarish celebration of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in 4D at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California.In addition to attending one of the El Capitan’s special immersive screenings of this incredible film, guests can also check out a display of original pieces from the stop-motion production, take a picture at a photo op, and purchase themed concessions.
D23 presents 25 Years of Halloweentown—October 21, 2023
The magic of the Cromwell clan makes a triumphant return to St. Helens, Oregon—the filming location of the Disney Channel Original Movie and true Halloween classic! D23 invites you to share in the spirit of Halloweentown, with special theatrical screenings of this beloved film right off the iconic town square. And you can bet this special screening is going to be anything but normal, because as Aggie Cromwell so wisely puts it, “Being normal is vastly overrated!” Whether you come from the Mortal world by an enchanted bus or even Benny’s Skeletal Taxi Service, make your plans now to join us in Halloweentown!
From extravaganzas of the undead to balls of the bewitched, this Halloween is sure to be a “scream come true” for all fans. Be on the lookout on D23.com for more “shriek peeks” and information on each of these D23 “Hallow Screams” events coming to you this fall!
Welcome Foolish Mortals, as we venture into the boundless realm of the supernatural through Walt Disney Studios’ latest release, Haunted Mansion… and for those wondering if the new film is worthy of a trip to the theater, there’s no turning back now! Haunted Mansion is a frightfully fun chill ride, encompassing the excitement and hilariously scary elements of the iconic Disney Parks attraction, all the while giving us a tour of some new surprises the eerie manor has in store for us.
This new take on the classic attraction definitely turns heads, setting itself apart from its predecessor by leaning into the secret ingredients that have helped make the original ride so beloved by fans the world over. It all comes down to the basic combination of scares and humor, opening the gates and welcoming visitors of all ages to enjoy and participate together while not overwhelming and pushing the film too far into either genre; following the footsteps of another iconic Disney attraction-themed film, Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl.
At the time of its release, Curse of the Black Pearl was a huge gamble with moviegoers. Would fans accept a feature-length film based on a 12-minute attraction story? What purpose would it serve, and would it be enough to win big at the box office? Curse of the Black Pearl was unique in the sense that it found a perfect mix of wit through the use of Jack Sparrow while weaving the terrifying tale of undead pirates trying to recapture their humanity. It was an instant smash and still a fan favorite twenty years later.
Thanks to that success, whether you like it or not, The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise paved the way for a multitude of live-action products, remakes, and reboots, both largely successful and some near misses, with the original Haunted Mansion adaptation being a great example.
Eddie Murphy’s travels into the supernatural didn’t resonate with audiences the same way, and for years, it’s been clear that Disney has been wanting to hit the reset button. What we are left with is a ghoulishly delightful tale that’s just as fun as the original haunted halls of the Disneyland attraction, finding the right moments of fright and fun that ultimately make you want to check the wait times and hope Haunted Mansion is a 13-minute wait.
What really makes this film flourish is its ensemble cast, who all brilliantly complement each other in the most hilarious and genuine way possible. Though we do get known Haunted Mansion characters like Constance Hathaway, Madame Leotta, and The Grim Grinning Ghosts, the focus of the film isn’t as much on the attraction or self-referenced Easter eggs for the ride, but instead on a new group of wayward mortals who find themselves in for a ghostly adventure, unlike anything they’ve ever encountered.
The narrative focuses on LaKeith Stanfield, played by Sorry to Bother You‘s Ben Matthias, a former astrophysicist who gets wrapped in the supernatural through a new and budding relationship that takes hold when he visits New Orleans. He is joined by Ahsoka star, Rosario Dawson as Gabbie, her son Travis played by Chase Dillon, and the legendary Loki and Cars star Owen Wilson as the haphazard parish minister, Father Kent. Kent and Stanfield are recruited by Gabbie to help investigate the mansion, finding themselves in over their heads and in desperate need of help as they work together to uncover the truth behind the mysteries surrounding the mansion and the hauntings that follow.
The help they find comes in the form of another superstar talent, including Hercules alum, Danny DeVito as professor Bruce Davis, a stubborn historian who dives into the face of danger despite the risks of a heart condition that is soon to be treated as well as the quick-witted medium Harriet, played by Girls Trip‘s very own Tiffany Haddish. Together, the group is a recipe for comedic gold, crafting a very memorable performance that will leave the crowd roaring with laughter.
Their ghostly counterparts for this film also leave their mark, lead by Halloween Queen, Jamie Lee Curtis as the world-famous Madame Leota, and House of Gucci star, Jared Leto as the Disneyland favorite, Hatbox Ghost. Leto, who is known for his method of acting and deep devotion to his character roles, delivers a terrifying and engaging performance while Curtis brings her spooky skills to the table in the best way possible. Our only wish is that Curtis had a larger presence in the film, along with a bit more time with the rest of our 999 happy haunts.
That being said, there are still plenty of nods to both the original Disney Parks attraction lore, as well as references playing homage to the Halloween season itself, with one of its biggest coming from a fun cameo featuring the one and only, Winona Rider. All of these elements give way to serve a greater purpose, crafting a narrative that brings our main ensemble to the center.
Though our mansion inhabitants don’t serve as prominent a role as desired, they still serve plenty of fun and handle the legacy of The Haunted Mansion with plenty of ghoulish grace and charm. The end result is a grab bag of hi-jinks and some surprisingly deep and emotional moments that really tie in the power of community and overcoming grief.
Disney’s Haunted Mansion is definitely worth a visit, and one that will quickly serve as a touching tribute to the formula that has made the many iterations of the attraction around the world a year around staple for an endless number of souls both with us and dearly departed.
**Writers Note- This review is in accordance with the rules set by SAG-AFTRA and is not written with the intent of promotion of Walt Disney Pictures. You can learn more by visiting SAG-AFTRA’s official site, or by visiting the WGA’s website. I fully support the writers, actors, and creators who help bring these stories to life. Thank you!
The Halloween season officially gets underway this weekend as Midsummer Scream comes to the Long Beach Convention Center — the world’s largest Halloween and horror convention that this year offers a massive array of entertainment options. Single and multi-day passes are on sale now at www.MidsummerScream.org.
At the core of Midsummer Scream is the Hall of Shadows, an incredible experience that brings together local and regional creators of some of the best haunted attractions in the world, giving Midsummer Scream guests a thrillingly, chillingly immersive experience unlike any other.
This year, Midsummer Scream also goes behind the scenes of some of the most iconic names in horror with unique panels that explore the creation of Disney’s Haunted Mansion film, and the origins, future, and legacy of Lionsgate’s Saw films. Moreover, Lionsgate will present a Saw experience on the Midsummer Scream show floor — and guests will also scream along with The Boogeyman, which will offer a special Midsummer Scream experience.
Halloween fans eager for this season’s biggest haunts will learn what’s in store through special presentations and panels from Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, Six Flags Magic Mountain’s Fright Fest, and Thirteenth Floor Entertainment. A curated short-film festival of terror is also available in The Screaming Room, presented by HorrorBuzz, while the Black Cat Lounge offers a feline-focused way to take a break from the action with adorable cats and kittens available for adoption.
“This sixth year for Midsummer Scream is truly the best yet, as we showcase the full range of Halloween and horror—from the big screen to local haunts to the best of horror-themed games of all sorts,” said David Markland, co-founder and executive director of Midsummer Scream. “There is going to be something to do literally every minute from the moment we open our doors at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 28.”
Some highlights of the schedule are included below, including presentations taking place in the Grand Ballroom presented by the Halloween Shirt Company. But remember—it’s only a sampling of what’s in store at Midsummer Scream!
ALL THREE DAYS
The Boogeyman Experience — Exclusively at Midsummer Scream, fans will immerse themselves in the world of The Boogeyman as they try to avoid the terrifying supernatural entity and escape with their lives. The first 50 brave attendees to walk through the experience daily will receive a limited-edition Boogeyman poster.
Saw Experience — Midsummer Scream guests can explore the horrific, unnerving and unforgettable world of Saw in a special experience open all three days of the event.
The Haunted Hearse — A fully immersive horror adventure for cellphones that seamlessly combines craft, fiber arts, analog/virtual technologies, and live performance to deliver a spooky art experience like no other.
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY ONLY
Exorcistic: The Live Musical — A “blasphemous” rock musical parody that breaks the fourth wall and engages the audience, and features book, lyrics and music by two-time Ovation Award winner Michael Shaw Fisher. (8 p.m. – 10 p.m. on the Promenade Stage, plays all three evenings; note: 18+ only)
FRIDAY, JULY 28
Midsummer Scream Hours 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Urban Death — The disturbed spirts and unfathomable monstrosities of Zombie Joe’s Underground’s cult-hit tableaux of madness, mayhem and diabolical horror await in their fun ‘n’ freaky performance. Note: Ages 16+. (7:20 p.m., Room 103BC)
‘Creepy’ Live Podcast — The Bloody Disgusting podcast from creator John Grilz goes live at Midsummer Scream, exploring the most famous and disturbing creepypastas and urban legends in the world. (7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Podcast Lounge)
SATURDAY, JULY 29
Midsummer Scream Hours 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Anaheim Halloween 100th Anniversary — See what’s in store for the centennial anniversary of the city of Anaheim’s Halloween Parade. (12 p.m., Promenade Stage)
Thirteenth Floor Presentation — A preview of what haunt and Halloween fans have in store from some of the 13th Floor’s haunted attractions: LA Haunted Hayride,DelusionandShaqtoberfest (12:30 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
Return of the Living Drag — The frightening flock of fabulous performers led by horror icon Peaches Christ returns to slay you with a deadly dose of horror drag. (2 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
Hot Haunts for 2023 — Midsummer Scream’s Rick West leads his annual discussion about the upcoming Halloween season with some of the community’s most talented and passionate haunters (2:30 p.m., Promenade Stage)
‘Saw X’ Presentation — An exploration of the past, future and legacy of Saw. Presented by Lionsgate. (3:30 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
‘Lost Boys’ & Vamp — The Lost Boys stars Jason Patrick, Billy Wirth and Jamison Newlander join Vamp for a live recording of “Let’s Get Spooky” (4:30 p.m., Promenade Stage)
Knott’s Scary Farm’s 50th — Speakers include Knott’s Scary Farm historian and show writer Ted Dougherty, attraction designer Jon Cooke, and Ken Parks, corporate director of creative development, Cedar Fair. (5 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
Slumber Party: Midsummer Scream After Dark — An incredible after-hours party filled with games, contests, screenings, music, dancing and much more. Included with Gold Bat VIP admission; while supplies last, tickets may be purchased separately online or through the Midsummer Scream app.
SUNDAY, JULY 30
Midsummer Scream Hours 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Winchester Mystery House 100th Anniversary — One of the world’s most haunted places celebrates its 100th anniversary. Walter Magnuson, executive director, will lead an exploration of the Winchester House’s centennial milestone. (12 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
Happy Haunts Materialize! Behind the Scenes of Disney’s Haunted Mansion — This special apparition from regions beyond by The Walt Disney Studios will include Jonathan Eirich, producer, and Phillip Bartell, editor, hosted by Lauren and Trevor Shand and Leone D’Antonio from The Boo Crew Podcast. (1:30 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
Six Flags Magic Mountain’s Fright Fest — Sharing nightmarish plans for the upcoming 30th anniversary season of Fright Fest. Sit down and hold on tight: It’s going to be a wild ride! (2:30 p.m., Promenade Stage)
The Boulet Brothers and the Supermonsters of Dragula! — For the first time on stage, The Boulet Brothers, hosts and creators of Shudder and AMC’s hit drag/horror reality competition show “The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula,” moderate a panel featuring several of the show’s winners together on stage. (3 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights — Look behind the screams of Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights when Creative Director/Executive Producer John Murdy returns to Midsummer Scream to share the creative process of bringing your darkest nightmares to life. (4:30 p.m., Grand Ballroom)
Now in its sixth year, the annual MIDSUMMER SCREAM hosts more than 40,000 Halloween and Horror fans at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center. Single-day passes range from $35 for adult admission to $140 for a three-day VIP “Gold Bat” pass. Children under 10 are free with an accompanying adult. More information on passes to MIDSUMMER SCREAM, plus full details on the show schedule and area accommodations, can be found at www.MidsummerScream.org.
The Disney Dream is about to get even dreamier this summer as Disney Cruise Line guests can now participate in a brand-new prismatic pop dance party taking place on the upper decks during select sailings.
Complete with colorful new fun for the whole family and a 90s throwback feel, it will be all feet on deck for Disney Cruise Line guests at Mickey’s Color Spin Dance Party, and DCL is revealing more details about this vibrant and energetic celebration perfect for Disney music lovers of all ages.
For starters, it’s not a deck party without appearances from Mickey Mouse (in all-new attire), Minnie Mouse, and many of their favorite friends – even Max! – and they are all dressed up and ready to bust a move. Each character is assigned a color, and when the wheel lands on their color – it’s time to party!
This unique deck party is interactive from start to finish. After a sing-along preshow of “Into the Unknown,” each spin on the color wheel will have your family singing, dancing, and yes, even doing the wave and hand jive to unique renditions of iconic Disney songs with an upbeat techno twist.
If you’re wondering how to pack for the occasion, we’re encouraging all partygoers to dress like your favorite character for the festivities. Or, feel free to join the color crew dancers, who will don colorful throwback tracksuits on stage!
Mickey’s Color Spin Dance Party is coming to select sailings on the Disney Dream beginning this week on the voyage to the Norwegian Fjords and Iceland.
Don’t miss your chance to sail with Disney Cruise Line in color aboard the Disney Dream! You can find summer 2023 itineraries by getting a FREE QUOTE HERE.
Zachari Dunes is located steps from beautiful Mandalay Beach in Oxnard (photo by Greg Aragon)
The only thing better than a great hotel room is a great hotel room on the beach. And this is why Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is one of my new favorite Southern California destinations. Located steps from the beautiful sand and ocean in Oxnard, California, the resort has everything one could want for a waterfront vacation.
The family and I began a recent two-night stay at Zachari Dunes by experiencing two different rooms. The first night we stayed in a luxurious 2-queen suite, overlooking the water, and the second night we were in a palatial presidential suite.
The 625-sq-ft, 2-queen suite overlooked the ocean and stunning Mandalay Beach. It came with a large entertaining room, featuring a sleeper sofa, comfy chairs, a chest of drawers, huge TV, and a balcony looking out to the water. This main room also had a wet bar, microwave, refrigerator, table and chairs, and a bathroom with a shower.
All suites are large, comfortable and offer memorable views (photo by Greg Aragon)
In the suite’s separate bedroom, there were two queen beds, a private bathroom with a tub and shower, big closet, another TV, and access to the giant balcony overlooking the blue Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands in the distance.
Outside the suite, we played on the beach or in the sparkling hotel pool. To get to the beach, we walked out the back gate of the resort, crossed a walking/biking path and stepped on the fluffy white sand of Mandalay Beach. I love this beach because it’s rarely crowded and it is great for sunbathing, building sand castles, and playing in the water with kids.
Another favorite spot was the hotel pool, where we had our own private cabana for a day. Available for rent, the cabanas offer shade, a refrigerator and a couch and chairs. They are a great way to enjoy the pool and the extra large Jacuzzi. While relaxing in the cabana we enjoyed champagne and fresh, local Oxnard strawberries.
Mandalay Beach is perfect for building sand castles and playing in the water (photo by Greg Aragon)The resort pool is the perfect place to escape and relax (photo by Greg Aragon)
After a day at the beach and pool, we enjoyed dinner at Ox & Ocean, the hotel’s signature, gourmet restaurant. Located beside the lobby, the restaurant offers an elegant and eclectic mix of surf and turf dinner options, as well as creative and tasty breakfast and lunch – all in a fun, indoor / outdoor setting.
“Tying into the unique makeup of California, Ox & Ocean serves locally sourced produce and seafood fresh from Oxnard’s plains and sea, celebrating a diverse influence and distinct flavors in an elegant, yet approachable fashion,” reads the hotel website.
Our dinner at Ox & Ocean began with a beet salad, with roasted poblano vinaigrette, avocado puree, goat cheese amaranth and local citrus. This heavenly salad was followed by delicious Oxtail Bao Buns, with hoisin, cilantro, kimchi and kewpie mayo.
Crab Croquettes with sesame chili-garlic dip (photo by Greg Aragon)Ahi Tuna Crudo with yuzu, apple pieces, avocado and radish (photo by Greg Aragon)
Our savory adventure continued with a fresh and spicy Ahi Tuna Crudo, with aji amarillo, yuzu, apple pieces, avocado and radish. One of my favorite dishes on this incredible culinary journey was the Crab Croquettes, with lump crab meat, panko bread crumbs, and sesame chili-garlic dip. These croquettes alone are worth a drive to Oxnard.
While dining, we sat outside, enjoying a cool ocean breeze and the beautiful Zachari Dunes resort. Featuring Spanish mission-type architecture, the white hotel buildings are highlighted by arches and red tile roofs. The grounds are covered with palm trees, lush vegetation, brooks and ponds, and winding pathways.
Zachari Dunes is designed with Spanish mission architecture (photo by Greg Aragon)
The hotel, which became part of the Hilton Curio Collection last year, is one of only two beachfront Hilton branded properties on the Pacific Coast. Besides 250 suites, Zachari Dunes boasts a fitness center, full-service spa, a bar with a game room, tennis and basketball courts, a small convenience store, and a beach gear rental shop with surf boards, paddle boards, hoverboards, skate boards, DSLR cameras, gopro cameras, binoculars, backpacks, wagons, a record player and more.
The resort’s gear shop offers two hours free rentals to hotel guests (photo by Greg Aragon)
After dinner we strolled along the beach, as the sun fell behind the rugged outline of the Channel Islands about 20 miles offshore. We then joined other hotel guests for s’mores at the hotel’s giant fire pit.
The next morning I worked out at the fitness center and then it was back to Ox & Ocean for breakfast. And it was another delicious affair, as I devoured Chilaquiles with roasted red pepper salsa, tortilla chips, sunny side egg, queso fresco, pico de gallo, and lime crema.
After breakfast we rented a four-person surrey bike and pedaled along the beach path. We pedaled by the ocean and next to large sand dunes and by a park, where we rested our legs and enjoyed lunch under a shade tree.
Renting a four-person surrey bike is great way for the family to explore together (photo by Greg Aragon)
Back at the hotel we took advantage of a great perk at the hotel that allows all guests to check out anything in the gear shop for free for two hours. The first day we borrowed a large beach wagon with oversized plastic wheels, to pull the kids and all our stuff across the sand to the water.
Our next adventure at Zachari Dunes was also quite memorable. We checked into a 1,600-sq-ft presidential suite that was fit for a king. The suite, which can easily sleep up to six people, came with two separate bedrooms, with a king bed in one and two queens in the other.
The 1,600 sq-ft presidential suite at Zachari Dunes is pure beach-front luxury (photo by Greg Aragon)
The suite also came with three bathrooms, two balconies overlooking the ocean and the pool, and a giant main living room with fireplace, office desk, wrap-around sofa, dining table, and kitchenette area with microwave, refrigerator, and wet bar. A highlight of the suite was the stand-alone bathtub in the main bedroom that was perfect for bubble baths.
The presidential suite was so great, we didn’t want to go outside. But with a sparkling pool below us and the blue pacific ocean mere steps away, we had to venture out. So on my second day at the hotel, I headed to the gear shop and used my free two-hour rental on a longboard skateboard. Measuring about 48 inches long, the board came with a long paddle-like oar that me and my son used to propel ourselves along the walking/bike path. Not only was this fun and thrilling, but it was also a great full body workout. I think we have a new sport!
Longboard skateboards are fun and challenging (photo by Greg Aragon)
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Bay is located at 2101 Mandalay Beach Road, Oxnard, California, 93035. For more information and reservations, visit: www.zacharidunes.com or call (805) 984-2500
This year marks 50 years of never-ending nightmares at Knott’s Scary Farm. The spine-tingling tradition is Southern California’s longest-running and most haunting Halloween theme park event. Starting Monday, tickets go on sale for a frightful experience that has left no tomb unearthed, no crypt unrattled and no fear untouched.
This year’s lineup is a culmination of five decades of terror that no one will want to miss select nights from September 21 through October 31. For those counting, that’s 29 fearful nights of horror.
This anniversary’s lineup includes 10 frightening mazes, 5 sinister scare zones, and 4 hair-raising shows. Guests can expect to uncover unforgettable experiences that will usher in characters from Haunt history. Those looking to unleash their inner monster at this year’s event can purchase event tickets on July 24 at 10 AM. There will be New Mazes and Nostalgic Nods to Infamous Haunts of the Past.
Celebration Launches with Ticket Sales Opening on Monday – 100 Days Until Halloween
This year, the event returns on September 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, October 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 31. Knott’s Scary Farm is open 7:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7:00 pm – 1:00 am on select Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Due to the explicit and frightening nature of the event, it is not recommended for children under 13. For more information on Knott’s Scary Farm, including admission, park hours, and events, visit knottsscaryfarm.com.
Fans of Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends, Barbie, and other iconic American toy brands will find plenty of fun and fanfare when Mattel Adventure Park, the first-ever Mattel branded theme park, starts welcoming guests in Glendale, Arizona. The new entertainment destination combines the talents of today’s top names in attractions, amusements, and design. Slated to open in 2024 just south of State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Mattel Adventure Park highlights the full spectrum of the iconic toymaker’s portfolio of brands and showcases the contributions of Mattel, Epic Resort Destinations (Epic), and other major industry trailblazers.
Upon seeing Mattel’s IPs brought to life in other location-based entertainment projects, Epic knew there was an opportunity to collaborate and innovate with Mattel to develop world-class branded attractions. To help bring the vision to life, Epic chose Super 78 to support the destination’s creative direction. Aiding with everything from the interactive design and media production for the park’s Thomas Adventure Train: Treasure Hunt™, which allows families to talk to Thomas and his friends before embarking on a journey on a real-life electric Thomas the Tank Engine to Hot Wheels Unleashed 4D Ride multi-media attraction, which takes guests behind the wheel of a custom-designed Hot Wheels car in a thrilling 4D motion experience.
Chance Rides, an all-American-based rollercoaster and classic ride manufacturer worked with Epic to create high-tech coasters and rides based on toys, from two Hot Wheels rollercoasters, Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer and Hot Wheels Boneshaker: The Ultimate Ride, to a fully electric Thomas & Friends train ride. Additionally, Epic chose to engage Zamperla, a cutting-edge, Italy-based amusement ride company known for its iconic coasters and thrill rides for children and adults, adding five family-friendly amusement rides to the Mattel Adventure Park’s Thomas & Friends World of Sodor™.
“We share a pioneering vision in collaborating with Mattel to develop a world-class primarily indoor theme park destination,” said Epic Resort Destinations President Mark Cornell. “Our key to an innovative and impactful park design has been fully leveraged through strategic partnerships, teaming with industry leaders like Mad Systems for their award-winning audiovisual design and interactive integration capabilities; Daniels Woodland for iconic attractions theming and fabrication and Lightswitch, illumination experts implementing cutting-edge solutions for all of our attractions from rollercoasters to our one of a kind, four-level Hot Wheels Go-kart track. The output of these partnerships has enabled us to create an extraordinary immersive branded theme park experience.”
San Diego Comic Convention (parent company of world-renowned Comic-Con in San Diego) announces it has teamed with Entertainment Cruise Productions to produce Comic-Con: The Cruise, a whole new experience that brings the community together and immerses fans in the world of popular arts like never before. This ultimate fan adventure celebrates their passions and is full of surprises, with original, one-of-a-kind entertainment delivered by iconic and beloved Comic-Con stars and creators who step off the stage and dine, party, and interact with the guests throughout the cruise in an environment like no other. A full-ship charter, Comic-Con: The Cruise sails February 5-9, 2025, from Tampa, FL, to Cozumel onboard Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas.
“With a stellar reputation for producing fan events on the ocean, we are excited that Entertainment Cruise Productions has developed Comic-Con: The Cruise to be a truly new kind of adventure,” said David Glanzer, spokesperson for the popular event. “The team at ECP shares our passion for transformational events and innovative programming and we are excited they are building something so amazing.”
“Comic-Con is unrivaled in creating a community that brings people together for experiences you can’t find anywhere else,” says Greg Laubach, Executive Director of Entertainment Cruise Productions. “It’s what we love to do, and we have designed Comic-Con: The Cruise to be a one-of-a-kind ultimate fan adventure.”
Comic-Con: The Cruise is a place where lifelong memories and new friendships will be made, bringing people together over their shared dedication to comics and popular arts. Fans become part of the story with unprecedented opportunities to interact with actors, creators, authors, and more, and see them in settings and showcases unlike anywhere else. They will rub shoulders with their favorite stars amidst a vibrant community of the most passionate fans across the globe during events and activities including:
An unparalleled lineup of talent performing special shows every night and interacting with guests in out-of-the-ordinary events
Stars and icons join guests in an array of activities such as Talent Hosted tastings, trivia sessions, live demonstrations, and more
Theme night parties and cosplay events along with the ultimate party band and DJs
Competitive video and tabletop gaming, next-level trivia contests, and more
Fun and unique vendors
Lively group panels and candid Q&A sessions
Meet and greets
Autograph and photograph sessions
The incredible journey takes guests on an unforgettable voyage in the Caribbean where they can surround themselves with the culture and natural beauty of Mexico, from its pristine white sand beaches to its magnificent mountains and vibrant architecture on this cruise vacation. The ship is a destination of its own. Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas offers luxury accommodations, excellent service, and first-class venues for our performances, events, and activities, as well as a Vegas-style casino and acres of glass offering panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
In between adventures, guests can soak up the sun poolside while reading their favorite comics or graphic novels, scale the 40-ft rock climbing wall, tee off on the mini golf green, relax at the spa, and dig into world-class flavors from more than a dozen restaurants and bars.
Cabin rates for Comic-Con: The Cruise begins at $990 per person (double occupancy) which includes all performances, interviews, parties, and events presented on the cruise, plus all meals. Further information can be found at www.comicconthecruise.com or by calling 877-438-9092.
Disney Legend, author and Cal State Fullerton alumna Martha Blanding will speak at a CSUF commencement ceremony for the College of Humanities and Social...
First, players choose from 6 Barbie-inspired zinc tokens in her signature color, pink: Dog, Show, Sportscar, Speedboat, Roller Skate, and Barbie herself.
