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First-Ever Mattel Theme Park to Open 2024 in Arizona

By
Robbie Bulus
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Mattel

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.

Mattel

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.”

For more about Mattel Adventure Park, check out MattelAdventurePark.com.

Announcing Comic-Con: The Cruise – The Ultimate Fan Adventure

By
Robbie Bulus
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Comic

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.”

Mattel

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.

Mattel

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.

New Hallmark Disney Keepsake Ornaments Now Available

By
Robbie Bulus
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Hallmark

Hallmark is excited to put an extra-spirited spin on holiday cheer as it blends a milestone anniversary with the fan-favorite Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Premiere event, July 15-23. This year’s celebration features more than 250 new Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments and exclusive artist signing events at select Hallmark Gold Crown Stores.

The 2023 Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Premiere event is the first opportunity to shop a majority of the new Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments and discover something unique for everyone who celebrates significant milestones and special memories made throughout this year.

“Hallmark Keepsake Artists are committed to crafting beautiful ornaments that tell unique and diverse stories through our intricate and custom designs,” said Gregor Benedetti, Hallmark Keepsake Artist. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the work we do has brought joy to so many for 50 years and we look forward to connecting with consumers at the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Premiere artist events.”

Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments offer something for everyone. From ornaments that celebrate life’s major occasions and capture the interests of loved ones, to fan favorites that symbolize the biggest fictional characters and best cultural moments, shoppers can find themselves in a Hallmark Keepsake Ornament.

Here are some of our favorite Disney Ornaments now available. (links included):

Disney 100 Years of Wonder Director Mickey Mouse Ornament With Light and Sound $29.99

Mattel

Celebrate 100 years of Disney wonder with this Mickey Mouse Christmas tree ornament. Director Mickey speaks while the film strip below lights up to highlight beloved Disney and Disney/Pixar animated characters (battery-operated): Winnie the Pooh, Woody, Mulan, Simba, Tiana, Nemo, Elsa, Miguel, Minnie Mouse, Snow White, Dumbo and Tinker Bell.

Disney The Haunted Mansion Collection Madame Leota Ornament With Light and Sound $44.99

Mattel

Relive the fun of a visit to the Disney Parks right on your Christmas tree! Known for her otherworldly incantations and disembodied head in a crystal ball, Madame Leota is seen summoning spirits from regions beyond as part of a Doom Buggy tour through The Haunted Mansion. This Christmas tree ornament features the iconic psychic medium in her seance room. Plug the ornament into Hallmark’s Keepsake Power Cord (sold separately) for constant illumination, then press the button to start a sound and light show scene. Connect all of The Haunted Mansion Collection ornaments—Madame Leota, Victor Geist, and The Coffin in the Conservatory—and The Haunted Mansion Tree Topper (each sold separately) to unlock additional amazingly interactive performances. We think you’ll agree these happy haunts deserve a place in the dead center of your holiday decor.

Disney Peter Pan’s Flight Off to Never Land! Ornament $21.99

Mattel

Take your Disney fandom to new heights this holiday season. Mickey is flying high in his enchanted pirate ship bound for Never Land in this Christmas tree ornament that’s inspired by Peter Pan’s Flight Disney Parks ride. Relive the fun of a visit to the theme parks or give the decoration to a fan of the classic animated Disney movie.

Disney The Haunted Mansion Collection The Haunted Mansion Musical Christmas Tree Topper With Light $149.99

Mattel

Relive the fun of a visit to the Disney Parks right on your Christmas tree with The Haunted Mansion tree topper that features music and dialogue from the beloved attraction. Plug it into the included power adapter for constant illumination, then press the button on the included remote control to start a synchronized sound and light show. Connect one or more of The Haunted Mansion Collection ornaments—Madame Leota, Victor Geist, and The Coffin in the Conservatory (each sold separately)—to unlock additional performances that you can’t access with the ornaments alone! We think you’ll agree these happy haunts deserve a place in the dead center of your holiday decor.

Disney Mickey Mouse Disney’s Electrical Parade Musical Ornament With Light. $29.99

Mattel

The magic of Disney Parks doesn’t stop after dark—that’s when the spectacular nighttime shows come alive! This Christmas tree ornament celebrates the vibrant Main Street Electrical Parade with its colorful, twinkling lights and unforgettable song. The delightful decoration dazzles with a constant light feature when connected to Hallmark’s Keepsake Power Cord (sold separately), and it performs an amazing sound and light show when you press the button.

Disney Mickey Mouse Partners Ornament $21.99

Mattel

Celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary and commemorate an appreciation for all things Disney with this Christmas tree ornament featuring a replica of the famous “Partners” statue. The iconic design features Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse standing hand in hand, smiling.

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back Into the Carbon-Freezing Chamber Ornament With Light, Sound and Motion $64.99

Mattel

As part of Darth Vader’s attempt to capture Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, Han Solo served as both bait and test subject for the carbon-freezing process. This Christmas tree ornament depicts the emotional scene on Cloud City, which culminates in Han and Leia’s iconic profession of love and Han’s encasement in carbonite. The dynamic decoration features LED lights for a constant glow. Push the button to see a synchronized sound and light performance, complete with motion, as the Rebel heroes face an uncertain fate. Requires Hallmark’s Keepsake Power Cord (sold separately).

This is just a sample of some of the new ornaments available. For more Disney ornaments check out the link here. And Happy Holidays!

Disneyland Rings in 68 Years of Magic

By
Maverick Bohn
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Disneyland

The original Magic Kingdom celebrated its birthday on Monday, July 17, 2023, ringing in 68 years of magic, wonder, and memories with park-goers of all ages at the Disneyland Resort. The celebration took place early afternoon, under the warm Southern California Sun, bringing forward the yearly tradition of looking back at the man who started it all, Walt Disney.

The cavalcade made multiple stops throughout Disneyland Park, including It’s a Small World, Town Square, and the Main Street Train Station.  Fans were greeted by Mickey Mouse, The Dapper Dans, as well as The Disneyland Band, who led the procession in singing Happy Birthday to Disneyland. Walt’s original dedication speech was also heard, followed shortly after by plenty of cheers, applause, and waves toward the multitude of characters out to commemorate the occasion.

The celebration gave guests a chance to reconnect with both rare and fan-favorite characters alike including Tweedledee and Tweedledum from Alice in Wonderland, Merida from Disney and Pixar’s Brave, as well as Mirabel from the recent smash hit, Encanto.

Mattel

This year’s anniversary also marks Disney’s 100th-anniversary celebration, looking back at over a century’s worth of storytelling and magic. As the Disney100 celebration is already underway throughout the resort through various food offerings, merchandise, and décor, no additional surprises were revealed for Disneyland’s 68th anniversary. Though the resort is only two years away from its 70th anniversary, which will mark its Platinum Anniversary, and ten years since the last big milestone, Disneyland’s Diamond Anniversary Celebration.

The anniversary also takes place shortly after the resort hosted the World Premiere of the upcoming film, The Haunted Mansion, themed after one of the resort’s most popular attractions, and on the heels of a historic strike between SAG-AFTRA, WGA, and major studios, including Disney.

Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, who recently sat down with CNBC, discussed the strike, changes in strategy for the company as a whole, and his thoughts on the recent changes taking place across the Walt Disney Company and the industry as a whole.

Though the news has not seemed to have a direct impact on the resort, fans prepare for the highly anticipated return of the Halloween season, as well as the now sold-out Oogie Boogie Bash, selling out in record fashion. Whatever the future holds, it is apparent that 68 years after the very first guests walked through the front gates, the magic of Walt Disney’s original park marches on forward.

Marvel “Secret Invasion” New Trailer

By
Robbie Bulus
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Secret Invasion

Disney+ has released a brand-new trailer for Marvel Studios’ “Secret Invasion.” Don’t miss the last two episodes of this exciting espionage thriller that has Nick Fury trusting no one as he rushes to avert chaos.

In Marvel Studios’ new series “Secret Invasion,” set in the present-day MCU, Nick Fury learns of a clandestine invasion of Earth by a faction of shapeshifting Skrulls. Fury joins his allies, including Everett Ross, Maria Hill and the Skrull Talos, who has made a life for himself on Earth. Together they race against time to thwart an imminent Skrull invasion and save humanity.

Marvel Studios’ “Secret Invasion” stars Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn, Cobie Smulders, Martin Freeman, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Charlayne Woodard, Killian Scott, Samuel Adewunmi, Dermot Mulroney, Christopher McDonald, Katie Finneran, with Emilia Clarke and Olivia Colman, and Don Cheadle.

Ali Selim directs the series and executive produces along with fellow executive producers Kevin Feige, Jonathan Schwartz, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Samuel L. Jackson, Ali Selim, Kyle Bradstreet, and Brian Tucker. Kyle Bradstreet is also the head writer, and Jennifer L. Booth, Allana Williams, and Brant Englestein serve as co-executive producers.

Marvel Studios’ “Secret Invasion” is streaming now exclusively on Disney+. The series finale will stream on Wednesday, July 26.

Mattel

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Coming to Disney+

By
Robbie Bulus
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Guardians of the Galaxy

Disney+ has announced that Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”  will begin streaming on Disney+ on August 2. Watch the TV spot and prepare for our beloved heroes’ arrival on the streaming service.

In Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” our beloved band of misfits is settling into life on Knowhere. But it isn’t long before their lives are upended by the echoes of Rocket’s turbulent past. Still reeling from the loss of Gamora, Peter Quill must rally his team around him on a dangerous mission to save Rocket’s life—a task that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.

The film stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, and Pom Klementieff, featuring Vin Diesel as Groot and Bradley Cooper as Rocket, Sean Gunn, Chukwudi Iwuji, Will Poulter and Maria Bakalova. James Gunn is the director and also wrote the screenplay. Kevin Feige produces with Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Nikolas Korda, Sara Smith, and Simon Hatt serving as executive producers.

Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” comes exclusively to Disney+ on August 2, joining the other two films of the trilogy, “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.”

Mattel

Super Nintendo World at Universal Hollywood Welcomes Toad

By
Robbie Bulus
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Super Nintendo World

Toad joins his friends Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach as a new walk-about character within SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Toad, a resident of the Mushroom Kingdom who works in service of Princess Peach, will now be on hand to meet and interact with guests visiting from around the world.
Since opening in early 2023, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has been incredibly well received, resonating with theme park guests and Nintendo fans across every generation. From the moment guests pass through the signature giant green pipe and are transported into the Mushroom Kingdom to become a part of this exhilarating universe, the energy and excitement are transformative, filled with exploration, discovery, and play, unlike anything they’ve ever experienced.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an all-new visually spectacular land, located within an expanded area of Universal Studios Hollywood. Within the vibrancy of colors and architectural ingenuity sits the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many interactive activities to engage the entire family within the captivating Mushroom Kingdom.

Along with themed dining at Toadstool Cafe™ and shopping at the 1-UP Factory™ retail store, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is an inspiring, game-changing addition to the world-famous theme park.

At a glance, this is SUPER NINTENDO WORLD:

Mattel

“Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge”: This all-new, technologically advanced ride, inspired by the popular Mario Kart™ video game series, seamlessly fuses cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) with projection mapping technology and actual set pieces along a moving ride track. Set against a multi-sensory backdrop of color, sound and movement, guests are seated in stadium-style, four-seat vehicles as they navigate familiar courses through the creative use and integration of head-mounted AR goggles. This unique feature is a key point of differentiation that distinguishes this ride from other theme park attractions.

The premise of “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” is simple but equally inspiring and challenging, appealing to guests of all ages regardless of gaming experience. As part of Team Mario, guests steer through underwater courses and courses in the clouds to compete for the Golden Cup while collecting digital coins to defeat Team Bowser and win. “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” raises the stakes for guests as an intriguing and repeatable ride with a variety of outcomes.

Mattel

Mount Beanpole: This towering landmark sits at the heart of the land and also serves as the entry queue for “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.”

Bowser’s Castle: Adorned with a breathtaking sculpture of a large and powerful Bowser, this structure serves as a key centerpiece of the land, home to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD’s signature ride, “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” As guests navigate the corridors and pass through the hall of medallions and trophies of the ominous castle towards the ride, they learn more about Bowser’s calculated plans to defeat Team Mario for the coveted Golden Cup.

Mattel

Power-Up Band™: These wearable, state-of-the-art wristbands sync with the official  Universal Studios Hollywood’s free downloadable app to level-up the guest experience within the land and enhance its many interactive elements. These include, but are not limited to, keeping individual and team scores, collecting digital coins and obtaining keys after winning Key Challenges throughout the land.

When riding “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge,” guests are encouraged to tap their Power-Up Band on the ride vehicle’s steering wheel. By doing so, they can track digital coins collected as well as gauge their ranking against friends and family when synced to the official Universal Studios Hollywood app. They are available in six design options with character themes and can be purchased both within the land and at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD retail shops located within the theme park and on Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

Interactive Gameplay: Within the land, guests can enjoy many interactive areas, including punching ? Blocks to collect digital coins. They will discover a new dimension of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD via the interactive binoculars positioned within the land, employing augmented reality technology. Guests can also collect keys after winning the Key Challenges from Goomba Crazy Crank, Koopa Troopa POWer Punch, Piranha Plant Nap Mishap and Thwomp Panel Panic. Collecting at least three keys will ultimately allow access to the final boss battle with Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown.

Mattel

Toadstool Cafe:  The land’s signature restaurant Toadstool Cafe serves a delicious menu perfected by Chef Toad where he greets guests upon entry. Menu items prepared fresh daily include Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, Mario Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi Pesto Chicken Burger, ? Block Tiramisu and Princess Peach Cupcake.

Mattel

1-UP Factory: What better way to commemorate a visit to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD than to visit the 1-UP Factory retail shop to purchase collectible memorabilia. The 1-UP Factory offers an extensive selection of merchandise from themed apparel to iconic character hats and an array of plush characters, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad, and Bowser.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is conceived in partnership with Nintendo and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to Nintendo fans for generations.

For more information and details, guests can visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com

Hallmark Channel Announces One-of-a-Kind Christmas Cruise

By
Robbie Bulus
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Hallmark Channel

Hallmark Channel is bringing its devoted fans the greatest gift, a first-of-its-kind opportunity for people to experience the magic of a Hallmark Channel holiday at sea. On a floating winter wonderland, guests can indulge in a four-day dream vacation on the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise! Created in partnership with Sixthman, the leader in fully immersive festivals at sea for more than two decades, and with the wonderful world of Hallmark fandom in mind, the cruise will allow people to immerse themselves in a Hallmark Channel Christmas with top Hallmark stars and unique yuletide experiences.

 

The ship sets sail November 5th-9th, 2024 from Miami, FL to Nassau, Bahamas on the beautiful Norwegian Gem.

Mattel

On board, the cruise will offer Christmas crafts, interactive activities with Hallmark talent, an exclusive world premiere of a new Hallmark Channel Countdown to Christmas movie from the comfort of a world-class theater on board, and much more. Some additional experiences fit for family, friends, and fellow Hallmark Channel fans will include:

  • Light the Night Sail Away Ceremony & Tree Lighting
  • Activities, Photo Ops, and Behind-the-Scenes Panels with Favorite Hallmark Channel Stars
  • Christmas Cookie Decorating
  • Christmas Carol-oke
  • Ugly Sweater Contest
  • Hallmark Channel Wine Tastings

“We hear time and time again that people want to immerse themselves in the world of Hallmark Channel Christmas movies and this venture is sure to bring our brand to life in a new, captivating way,” said Hallmark Media’s Vice President of Consumer Products, Natalie Vandergast. “We are delighted to count down to Christmas 2024 aboard an adventure that will allow our stars and enthusiastic fanbase alike to create everlasting memories together at sea.”

Mattel

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise itinerary is as follows:

  • DAY 1 – Depart Port of Miami
  • DAY 2 – Day at Sea
  • DAY 3 – Nassau, Bahamas
  • DAY 4 – Day at Sea
  • DAY 5 – Arrive Port of Miami

“From sugar plums to reindeer, ornaments to caroling and so much more. Loyal fans will celebrate timeless Hallmark Channel Christmas traditions and create new ones with their families, a ship full of Hallmarkies, and Hallmark Channel’s holiday stars,” said Jeff Cuellar, Vice President of Events, Marketing & Community, Sixthman. “Leave your puffy jacket and grab your Christmas spirit and passion for Hallmark Channel Christmas movies as we set sail on the most heartwarming, holly jolly experience on the high seas.”

Mattel

Pre-sale sign-ups begin NOW, July 11, 2023, and end on July 19, 2023. During the pre-sale signup period, guests can register to receive a booking appointment for their chance to reserve their cabin during the pre-sale. The first-round pre-sale signup deadline is July 16, 2023, at 11:59 pm Eastern Time, with the first round of pre-sale booking times beginning July 18, 2023.

The final pre-sale signup deadline is July 19, 2023 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time, with remaining pre-sale booking times running through Public On Sale on July 21, 2023. On July 21, 2023, at 2:00 pm Eastern Time, bookings will be open to the general public. Cabin space is limited, so it is recommended that Hallmark fans register early to book during the pre-sale.

For more information, visit https://www.hallmarkchannelcruise.com.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Adds Special Service

By
Robbie Bulus
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The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner will once again operate daily train service through south Orange County starting Monday, July 17, just in time for highly anticipated events across Southern California, including Comic-Con International San Diego, the X Games California Finals, and the start of the Del Mar Summer Racing Season.

The resumption of full train service follows the completion of a railroad protection project near the San Clemente Pier, eliminating the need for a shuttle bus connection between Irvine and Oceanside. Passengers can now enjoy transfer-free travel along the scenic coastline to popular events.

Amtrak

To accommodate the expected increase in travelers, three additional trains will be added to the Pacific Surfliner schedule from Friday, July 21 through Sunday, July 23.

  • Train 568 will depart Los Angeles at 9:10 a.m. and arrive in San Diego at 12:07 p.m., making all stops in between.
  • Train 799 will depart San Diego at 1:25 p.m. and arrive in Santa Barbara at 7:44 p.m., making all stops in between. It provides an evening return for X Games attendees traveling north, departing Ventura at 7:09 p.m.
  • Train 798 will depart Santa Barbara at 8:50 p.m. and arrive in Los Angeles at 11:48 p.m., making all stops in between. It provides a late-night return for X Games attendees traveling south, departing Ventura at 9:43 p.m.

Event Details

Comic-Con International: Fans of comic books and pop culture, industry professionals, and cosplayers will travel to San Diego for workshops, panels, film screenings, and competitions. The San Diego – Santa Fe Depot is an easy walk or quick trolley ride away from the main events at the convention center and other downtown activities.

X Games California: Elite action sports athletes will compete at the Ventura County Fairgrounds for Finals Weekend of X Games California. The train station is conveniently located next to the Fairgrounds parking lot, within a two-minute walk from the event entrance. A 15% discount is available on train travel and event admission.

Del Mar Racetrack: The summer horseracing season will kick off with special events throughout the weekend. From the Solana Beach Station, a free shuttle is available for train passengers to connect to the racetrack.

New Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Coming to Disney+

By
Robbie Bulus
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Star Wars

Disney+, Disney Junior, and Lucasfilm announced that “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Season 1 continues with six all-new episodes. The new episodes will debut on Disney+ and Disney Junior beginning August 2, 2023, with more episodes to come later this year. In total, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Season 1 will be a 25-episode run.

Set during The High Republic era, the animated series follows Jedi Younglings as they study the ways of the Force and learn valuable skills needed to become Jedi. The series was recently nominated for a 2023 Television Critics Association Award and was awarded a Common Sense Seal from Common Sense Media, which acknowledges outstanding media that families can enjoy together.

The first seven episodes from the series, which premiered May 4, saw the Younglings train with Master Yoda and Master Zia at the Jedi temple on Tenoo, meet the pilot and fast friend Nash Durango, and clash with pirate Taborr Val Dorn. The six new episodes will follow the Younglings as they continue to hone their Force abilities and go on adventures across the galaxy.

“We’ve been thrilled to see a whole new generation fall in love with the Star Wars galaxy through ‘Young Jedi Adventures,’” says James Waugh, series executive producer and senior vice president, of franchise content & strategy at Lucasfilm. “We hope to continue delighting younglings, Jedi padawans, and the fans of all ages who have declared themselves #NubsNation, with these new episodes.”

Mattel

Extensions for “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” include multiple books such as Leveled Readers, Little Golden Books, Coloring & Activity formats, and more, plus an assortment of playsets, figures, apparel, plush, and more from Hasbro, LEGO, Mattel, and more. A selection of items is now available at your favorite major retailers, including ShopDisney.

Produced by Lucasfilm in collaboration with Wild Canary for Disney+ and Disney Junior, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” is executive produced by Lucasfilm’s James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, and Josh Rimes. Michael Olson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is the showrunner and executive producer; Elliot M. Bour (“Elena of Avalor”) is supervising director and co-producer; Jeannine Hodson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is the producer; and Lamont Magee (“Black Lightning”) is consulting producer.

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” stars Jamaal Avery, Jr. as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, Emma Berman as Nash Durango, Trey Murphy as Taborr, Jonathan Lipow as RJ-83, Nasim Pedrad as Master Zia Zanna, and Piotr Michael as Master Yoda.

Haunted Mansion Foods at Disneyland Resort

By
Robbie Bulus
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Haunted Mansion

Get ready for the upcoming “Haunted Mansion” release on July 28 with these eats and bites sure to awaken your taste buds, available at the Disneyland Resort.

Mattel

Haunted Mansion Inspired Pre-Fixe Menu available at Café Orleans featuring the Vanilla Mousse and Seafood Boil.

Mattel

April-December Churro at the New Orleans Square Churro Cart: Strawberry-flavored sugar with fresh strawberries, purple cherry sugar, freeze-dried strawberries, and donut icing drizzle.

Mattel

Constance Concoction at Harbour Galley: Potato and leek soup topped with pea flower crème fraiche, herb oil, and fried leeks served in a sourdough bread bowl.

Mattel

Crystal ball Cereal Treat at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen: Cereal treat in black-colored dark chocolate with teal and black M&M’S embellished with a Madame Leotta chocolate piece.

Mattel

Pickwick Ghost Punch at Royal Street Veranda and Harbour Galley‌: A Combination of fruit, citrus juices, and sherbet (Non-alcoholic).

For more Disneyland Resort Info click here. Contact us to book your vacation now.

Hulu Launches ‘Hulu Animayhem’

By
Socalthrills Staff
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Hulu Animayhem

Hulu is the streaming destination for Adult Animation and Anime content, home to over 20,000 episodes across both genres, has launched “Hulu Animayhem,” a sub-brand that puts a spotlight on this robust Adult Animation and Anime library and super-serves its fans in a way that only Hulu can.

Kicking off with a new hero spot and creative key art picturing some of Adult Animation’s most beloved characters, the campaign will also include interactive social media touch points including a TikTok bracket challenge, AR filters, and more.

Fans will be thrilled to find newly branded hubs for both genres on Hulu, where they can find their favorite titles including Hulu Original Futurama (Season 11 premieres 7/24), Hulu Original Solar Opposites (Season 4 premieres 8/14), Viz Media’s Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (Season 1, Part 2 premieres 7/8), Freeform’s Praise Petey (Series premieres 7/21, next day on Hulu), Viz Media’s Naruto Shippuden (Season 8 premieres 8/1), FX’s Archer (Final Season premieres 8/30, next day on Hulu), Hulu Original Undead Unluck (October 2023), and many more!

“Hulu Animayhem” will also show up in a major way at San Diego Comic-Con next weekend.  Taking over the Bayfront Parking Lot, the activation will take fans on a fully immersive journey that transports them through a 2D experience putting them right in the center of their favorite shows.

For more information on “Hulu Animayhem” and to check out the Adult Animation and Anime libraries, please visit Hulu.com/HuluAnimayhem.

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