ABC has announced that the hit drama “9-1-1” will join the 2023-2024 season at its new home on the network. Produced by 20th Television in association with Ryan Murphy Television and Brad Falchuk Teley-Vision, the series will continue to explore the high-pressure experiences of first responders – including police officers, firefighters, and dispatchers – who are thrust into the most frightening, shocking, and heart-stopping situations.
“Thanks to the creative drive of Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear, as well as the talented cast, ‘9-1-1’ has been one of the most defining and original dramas on network television over the last six seasons and we are honored to bring it to the esteemed group of series on ABC,” said Craig Erwich, president, Disney Television Group. “It’s a privilege to keep ‘9-1-1’ in the family with 20th Television producing, and we look forward to telling more heart-racing and uplifting stories about these beloved characters on our air.”
This season, “9-1-1” ranks as Monday’s No. 1 entertainment series and ties as the season’s No. 1 broadcast drama in Adults 18-49 (1.0/8). Additionally, “9-1-1” ties as the No. 2 entertainment series on the broadcast networks this season in Adults 18-49.*
The series stars Angela Bassett as Athena Grant, Peter Krause as Bobby Nash, Jennifer Love Hewitt as Maddie Kendall, Oliver Stark as Evan “Buck” Buckley, Kenneth Choi as Howie “Chimney” Han, Aisha Hinds as Henrietta “Hen” Wilson, Ryan Guzman as Eddie Diaz, Corinne Massiah as May Grant, Marcanthonee Jon Reis as Harry Grant, and Gavin McHugh as Christopher Diaz.
“9-1-1” was created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Tim Minear. Alexis Martin Woodall, Angela Bassett, Peter Krause, John J. Gray, Kristen Reidel and Juan Carlos Coto also serve as executive producers.
Disney Cruise Line’s 25th “Silver Anniversary at Sea” season has kicked off, and if guests are planning to sail this summer, here is everything you need to know before stepping aboard! While the Disney Wish’s anniversary sailings begin today, these offerings will be added to each ship throughout the coming weeks.
From a first look at the character ensembles to a celebratory song, new entertainment, merchandise, food and beverage offerings, and a Castaway Club tier created for our most frequent cruisers, there are so many shimmering details we don’t want everyone to miss!
New looks for characters
To celebrate the signature color of the celebration – Shimmering Seas – here’s a first look as all our favorite Disney friends join Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse with coordinated anniversary looks! While our favorite characters will don outfits that feature swirling designs reminiscent of ocean waves and multi-toned fabric, guests can get in the action with their own shimmering ensemble.
“Shimmering Seas” song
Whether guests are sailing or not, they can celebrate the anniversary season with a brand-new melody! “Shimmering Seas,” a signature song created especially for the “Silver Anniversary at Sea,” celebrates 25 years of magic at sea in an upbeat tribute to Disney Cruise Line’s past, present, and future. If guests are on board this summer, be sure they keep their ears peeled for this celebratory tune!
The “Silver Anniversary at Sea” won’t just be pleasing to the eyes and ears, it will be a celebration for your taste buds as well! Sweets treats made just for the season include a 25th cupcake, a Mickey chocolate sphere, a chocolate cream cookie, Captain Minnie crisped rice treat – and if that’s not enough, signature desserts in the family dining venues will be getting a tasty enhancement with a special 25th chocolate piece to add to their already stunning presentation!
For those over 21, the signature Jubilee by the Sea cocktail – complete with sparkly, silver dusting and a shimmering blue sugar rim – will be available at select lounges, while a special anniversary Coca-Cola bottle, specialty coffee mug, 25thanniversary beer mug, and a “Silver Anniversary at Sea” popcorn bucket will provide dual use both on the cruise and as a special keepsake at home.
New entertainment
In 1998, Disney Cruise Line made history as the first cruise line ever to produce a fireworks show at sea, and these sparkling displays have remained a quintessential part of the Disney Cruise Line experience since. During most Bahamian, Caribbean, and Mediterranean cruises this summer that are four nights or longer, the night skies will light up with a shimmering new show that will uphold the cherished Disney tradition of fireworks and honor Disney’s continuing legacy of adventure. The dazzling spectacle will be set to the tunes of iconic and beloved Disney music and will be anchored by the new signature song.
Also in honor of our “Silver Anniversary at Sea,” we are reimagining the time-honored tradition of a Captain’s Reception into the Shimmering Seas Soiree, a regal gathering with all the pomp and circumstance this milestone deserves. On one evening of each cruise, guests will be invited to join their ship’s captain, cruise director, and some favorite Disney friends in the atrium for a festive anniversary toast.
Shimmering touches
Throughout the 25th anniversary celebration, guests may notice shimmering touches across all five ships, as well as special décor in Disney Cruise Line terminals and a limited-time look for Key to the World cards. On board, shimmering blue accents will adorn each ship’s atrium, while a special anniversary icon will provide the picture-perfect backdrop for a commemorative photo.
Speaking of picture-perfect, the celebratory season isn’t limited to just the high seas! Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private island in The Bahamas, is also celebrating 25 years and will be decked out with anniversary decorations, along with a special surprise shimmering makeover to Mount Rustmore, a Guest-favorite photo spot.
The Shimmering Seas collection features light blue colorways and sparkling fabrics that are reminiscent of sunshine reflecting upon turquoise waters, along with festive silver accents. Shimmering accessories include a new Loungefly backpack and ear headband, new clothing pieces – including a spirit jersey and embroidered Nike polo – and a new line of commemorative jewelry. Guests can also plan to save a little room in their suitcase for other limited-time gifts, including a “Silver Anniversary at Sea” ornament, trading pin, and a collectible ship replica.
All-new Castaway Club tier
The anniversary of Disney Cruise Line heralds the unveiling of a brand-new membership tier for Castaway Club, which recognizes returning Disney Cruise Line guests with exclusive rewards and perks. Honoring 25 years of Disney magic at sea, members will now earn the distinction of Pearl status after 25 Disney Cruise Line vacations. (Disney)
For nearly two-and-a-half decades, members of the Castaway Club have played an integral role in the Disney Cruise Line story. To honor this special anniversary, a new membership tier named “Pearl” was added to honor the valued relationship we have formed with guests over the years and is inspired by the time it takes for a pearl to be formed in nature.
With the launch of Pearl today, cruisers who have sailed on at least 25 Disney Cruise Line vacations will have access to more rewards and perks than ever before, including unlimited digital downloads from Disney Cruise Line professional photographers, an early booking window for new itineraries, the ability to schedule onboard activities before anyone else, a special gift (one per stateroom) and complimentary dinner at Palo.
Castaway Club Gift
If guests are still working their way toward the Pearl Castaway Club tier, don’t worry – we still have a special gift for them! Castaway Club members who sail during the “Silver Anniversary at Sea” this summer will receive a limited-edition framed art print (one per stateroom) to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime celebration while supplies last. As shown above, this design was created by Disney artist Joe Kaminski, whose work is featured in The Art of Disney galleries, Disney resort hotels, and Disney Cruise Line ships.
Sailings featuring “Silver Anniversary at Sea” festivities kick off across the fleet this month and will sail through September.
We are just weeks away from the release of Disney’s live-action reimagining of The Little Mermaid, and just like Ariel’s grotto, there are gadgets and gizmos plenty in store for fans that wish to make these shiny new merch items part of their world!
Look at this stuff, isn’t it neat? From Funko to ear bands, to spirit jerseys, there are plenty of toys, accessories, and apparel options for everyone to enjoy.
The new Little Mermaid collection is available via Disney Parks, as well as online at shopDisney, and can be found by park visitors throughout the Disneyland Resort.
We had a chance to catch a glimpse while roaming the resort, and are absolutely enamored with the assortment of items for fans of all ages.
The collection is impressive, and if you look closely, may even provide a hint or two of what may be coming when we venture under the sea on the big screen.
An exciting summer awaits, and we cannot wait to explore this new world with all of you. You can learn more about the new film by clicking here, and don’t forget to relive the magic from the official trailer below!
Disney’s The Little Mermaid debuts exclusively in theaters nationwide on May 26th, 2023!
In March at Wondercon from the mainstage of the Anaheim convention center, Funko hosted a Funatic-filled event with announcements for those Funko fans attending along with giveaways. Some of those attendees received some new releases early, just as they were announced from the stage, which now has become available to order! Amongst those which were announced at the show and are now available is a new wave of Bitty Pop! collectibles.
“Funko’s new line of miniature Star Wars and DC Bitty Pop! collectibles is now available online. Featuring the signature Funko Pop! stylization in a micro-sized collectible form, each package (MSRP: $15) includes three default figures and one mystery figure in an acrylic display”
These exciting new collectibles which join some of other highly collectible lines, are most familiar to their original precursor the Funko Pop!, which is obvious in the name alone. The bitty name truly is a part of collectibility here, these are not only smaller versions of a Pop!, (which means there is room for them in your collection) beyond them being like the Pop! you may already have in your own collection, and they do seem awfully familiar, there is a particular charm to collecting these.
The charm in collecting these is found in the range of releases. The DC line alone comes with a range of some of your favorite Batman franchises, from “Batman the Animated Series” to “Batman 66”, to other favorite DC properties.The other line premiering with this second wave is the Star Wars Bitty Pop! line of collectibles.
This line features some of your favorite Original Trilogy Characters!All releases come in four a pack with one mystery one in the pack. You can get just about any character with whatever pack you may purchase. This makes for more collectibility and that Funko brand of Fun! These packs retail for $15 and are now available for order.
Which line are you going to bring home to your collection? Is the Funatic in you ready for more new announcements? Stay tuned for more new announcements and reviews from Funko!
The Guardians of the Galaxy are back! Maybe not as the cast as you remember them exactly, there have been some additions as of late to the roster, but this is truly a return to form for these fan-favorite characters. This rag-tag crew has been through a storied journey on film together and sometimes apart, but never alone, to become just a true family of misfits we have come to know and love. That journey has spanned the course of five film appearances as well as one Disney+ original Holiday Special, with each project seemingly knitting these characters closer together and at the same time adding additional members along the way.
The last few MCU projects that have featured these characters have been woven into the larger MCU and cleverly disguised as character-driven pieces that have showcased that these Guardians of the Galaxy thrive in that form of storytelling. What affects one of these Guardians seems to affect all in their larger story. Just like us fans, the MCU experience on screen is different post-Endgame, and those repercussions are felt that much more in this film.
The Guardians are dealing with the loss of Gamora (played masterfully once again by Zoe Saldana), who was once a part of their beloved family, and the love interest for Chris Pratt’s “Peter Quill.” As Pratt’s character deals with the loss of Gamora, in more amusing ways than one, he delivers a heartfelt performance as he continues to deal with love and loss throughout the film all while his character also continues to grow with his found family. As this family continues to grow and friends come and go, some pains for these characters stay the same.
That is where this story begins as well as ends. This film takes us through the pains, emotional and physical traits these characters endured and yet still throughout the course of the film suffer because of how strong their bond is with one another. Indeed some of these painful experiences on screen may be upsetting for most viewers to watch but none are done for the sake of shock but rather to drive these characters and their stories throughout the film.
These shocking scenes, seen as flashbacks directed by James Gunn, evoke storytelling that was perfected by Francis Ford Coppola in The Godfather Part II. In that film the flashbacks served as a backstory to the Corelene family, here they serve as a tragic backstory to Rocket.
The story starts with and gives a fitting end to the story arc of Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper), this always-seemingly oddball has been portrayed throughout his time in the MCU as brash, selfish, and a little more than arrogant. His character has developed beyond those characteristics in recent MCU projects, to become an essential part of this family, as well as truly a Guardian of the ENTIRE Galaxy (you’ll remember he teamed up with the Avengers to bring back half the universe).
His character’s portrayal in this film as being the brains of the operation is highlighted in this film. It is what drives the plot, and that is not a task that is taken lightly here by the production, this essential part of the movie, and one on which the crux of the movie stands, is what gives its most human element.
Rocket’s skill set which has been showcased throughout the course of his time in the MCU is finally given a back story explored as being both a blessing and curse. Rocket is a unique being in the larger MCU, that is even compared to those he’s played alongside a talking tree and a literal god. His existence and skills are explored throughout the film, and through engaging storytelling.
As characters’ motivations are explored and character arcs are brought to their furthest reach, this is when you realize that this film is what has been so missed in the MCU lately and also makes it worth watching. The action is a return to form for direction and CGI-filled pandemonium that has been missed in the MCU, and only this group has been able to bring time and time again.
The action sequences are spread throughout and are not as often made as large as expected to be, but when the action sequences are on the big screen along with the movie’s soundtrack, you can’t be expected not to be grinning from ear to ear. The larger set pieces for some of the sequences are executed well by James Gunn and Co., and the CGI-fueled beatdowns these characters are known for are done in tighter set pieces amongst all the CGI madness and they are the better for it, including one of the best-extended fight sequences in recent MCU memory. Everyone brings their A-game for this action-packed, emotional send-off to the Guardians.
Each of the Guardians has their time to shine in this epic conclusion, and each of their own motivations and story arcs is so wonderfully explored here, that you don’t even mind the runtime at a little over the two-hour mark. While some things by films end change for our characters it feels as if some things stay the same, and that’s not a bad thing, this is found in “Drax” played by Dave Bautista, and Pom Klementieff’s “Mantis” with these two there are guaranteed brand of humor and familiarity that can always be depended on for those moments as well as heartfelt ones, they deliver a performance that reminds us why we have grown to love every member.
Amongst others returning is “Kraglin” played by Sean Gunn. His character has been an essential part of this team, and this really shows throughout the film. His presence feels familiar and is welcomed amongst many of the other returning characters, as they finish their story arcs. The team would also not be complete without Karen Gillain’s “Nebula” as well as Vin Diesel’s “Groot”.
These characters’ sacrifices for the rest of their found family throughout this series and in the larger MCU are not taken for granted. They have both been core parts of the larger MCU including being in both Avengers three and four respectively. These characters remind us not to underestimate what easily could just be a talking tree and an android in any other sci-fi film as of late, but in this movie, their characters are truly unsung heroes.
Filling out the rest of the cast is Maria Bakalova as “Cosmo the Space Dog” who is a joining member of the Guardians, a character that has been showcased since they were featured as an easter egg in the first film. This character’s addition pays off in a really nice way for this story and is a welcome addition. Appearing as the film’s antagonists are Will Poulter as “Adam Warlock” and Chukwudi Iwuji as the High Evolutionary respectively.
Poulter, it would seem like Bakalova’s character has been hinted at since the first film as an easter egg as well. His inclusion is what fans have been tepidly hoping for and does not disappoint that his character gets to play. Although many find him underused in this film, beyond being a simple Superman in this story, his character does come with a promise.
The most compelling character is Iwuji as the film’s villain, whose story and motivations are intertwined with the existence of Rocket. He evokes a Bond villain in his portrayal in this film and one that is dying to be seen on the big screen. His villainous story told throughout the movie, is what feels like what has been missing as of late. You’ll find there are no redeeming qualities for him, he’s just evil plain and simple. He is played by Iwujii in such an over-the-top way, it leaves you wanting more.
With more motivations largely explored and story arcs finished by the movie’s end, this film may very well leave the audience satisfied with the fact that we were able to say goodbye to this unique family in such an awesome and heartfelt way. If the Avengers characters gave us a satisfying conclusion to their character arcs in “Avengers Endgame” then the same can be said for this group.
The Guardian’s story concluding with this trilogy is done so with the love and care of a creative team that outpaces those other projects the studio has been releasing as of late. This is the same studio that has brought us great character-driven moments in their movies and has seemed to be burnout with the handling of most of them.
The Ant-Man character just concluded his trilogy and left many fans feeling as if the studio is running out of good stories and ideas within their projects. There appears to be no burnout here, just simply an exciting conclusion to these character-driven stories that have kept us coming back time and time again and that is done so well under the direction of James Gunn, we are left yet wanting more and more.
Marvel fans can only hope for this level of storytelling and direction to return to the big screen, but for now, we can be grateful to the cast and crew for telling such a satisfying ending to what may very well be the best Marvel Trilogy for the foreseeable future.
On Thursday, April 27th, Jimmy Kimmel & Chris Pratt along with a studio audience pulled off a remarkable stunt to promote Chris Pratt’s new film from Marvel Studios, Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3, and they did it all live from Jimmy Kimmel’s Hollywood Studio.
The stunt involved a mixture of “AI” as Chris Pratt jokes throughout the stunt (which is simply Chris Pratt miming the robotic nature of an “AI” through the course of that stunt), a live 3d image projector (think of an advanced zoom call screen), cast members from the Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout attraction (which is at Disney California Adventure Park) ushering the unsuspecting guests to experience the “AI”, and finally Jimmy Kimmel and his live studio audience to pull of one of the best promotional materials for a film I have ever seen.
The skit which I’ll refer to it further, first leads unsuspecting guests who appear to have been selected while exiting the ride, to a cast member hallway just beyond the ride’s exit. Once ushered into this hallway hilarity ensues. Chris Pratt playing his “AI” counterpart greets guests as just that an “AI” counterpart, Pratt then proceeds to interact with the guests as a software program, acting and miming as a computer program would.
The Chris Pratt computer program acts out what you would think an “AI” of Chris Pratt would act and sound like, except with a blend of his own unique humor, that no computer could ever hope to replicate. This type of humor has the guests confused and in shock, but all in good fun. Pratt speaks with more than a few guests as his “AI” counterpart while also encouraging them and flat-out asking them if they plan to watch his new Marvel Studios film.
The skit ends with Pratt welcoming Jimmy Kimmel to join him in this large screen projector to reveal to the guests that he and Jimmy are actually just that, themselves, and that they are live from Hollywood. Pratt was on the show Thursday night promoting the new Guardians of the Galaxy Film before he attended the World Premiere of his movie across the street at the Dolby Theater.
What a great way to get ready for a Walt Disney Studios and Marvel Studios World Premiere, then by spreading some Disney magic to Disneyland Resort Park fans who just experienced one of the most unique attractions from Disney Parks. Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 comes exclusively to theaters on May 5th.
Watch the video below
Disney is the parent company of ABC Studios, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Disney Parks.
Beginning in late May, Ariel is trading her fins for human legs and stepping into a world beyond the sea as she appears in the all-new live-action story “The Little Mermaid,” releasing in theaters May 26, 2023. In celebration of the film’s release, Ariel will be venturing out to select Disney Parks where guests will get to meet her this summer.
Disney is always looking for ways to build connection through the power of stories and is excited for new and existing fans to enjoy Ariel from both the animated and live-action stories this summer at Disney Parks. Check out all the places Ariel from the live-action story will be making a special appearance for a limited time!
Walt Disney World – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
When Ariel’s adventures on land take her to Walt Disney World Resort, guests will be able to meet her by visiting Walt Disney Presents at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Ariel invites guests to be “part of her world” and for a limited time, see a special sneak peek and props from the film available at Walt Disney Presents Theater. Come be immersed in the live-action “The Little Mermaid” story at Walt Disney World!
Disneyland Resort – Disneyland Park
Heading west to Disneyland Resort, Ariel will venture on land to greet guests along the promenade near “it’s a small world” at Disneyland Park. Is life under the sea better than anything they have on land?! Guests will have to come see for themselves at Disneyland!
Starring singer and actress Halle Bailey (“grown-ish”) as Ariel, the film holds an all-star cast, including Daveed Diggs, Awkwafina, Javier Bardem and Melissa McCarthy. Check out Halle’s announcement below!
Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ‘90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduce a whole new faction of Transformers – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth.
Directed by Steven Caple Jr. and starring Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, the film arrives in theatres on June 9, 2023.
DIRECTED BY
Steven Caple Jr.
SCREENPLAY BY
Joby Harold and Darnell Metayer & Josh Peters
and Erich Hoeber & Jon Hoeber
STORY BY
Joby Harold
BASED ON
Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures
PRODUCED BY
Lorenzo di Bonaventura, p.g.a., Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay,
Mark Vahradian, p.g.a. Duncan Henderson
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS
Steven Spielberg, Brian Goldner, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg,
Don Granger, Brian Oliver, Bradley J. Fischer, Valerii An
CAST
Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Luna Lauren Velez, Dean Scott Vazquez, Tobe Nwigwe, Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Liza Koshy, John DiMaggio, David Sobolov, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, Colman Domingo, Cristo Fernández, Tongayi Chirisa
Check out the new trailer, plus a poster for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” which opens exclusively in theaters on Nov. 22. The trailer introduces 17-year-old Asha, the powerful King Magnifico, Asha’s pet goat Valentino, and Star, a celestial ball of boundless energy that Asha’s wish calls down from the sky. It also features a snippet of the song “This Wish,” performed by Ariana DeBose; it’s one of several new songs written by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice for the film.
The all-new musical-comedy welcomes audiences to Rosas, a fantastical land located off the Iberian Peninsula. “Our heroine, Asha, lives in Rosas, known as the kingdom of wishes,” said director Chris Buck, who helms the film with Fawn Veerasunthorn. “People come from everywhere to give their wishes to a magical king who promises to grant their deepest desires—someday. Only he can decide which wishes will come true and when.”
Added Veerasunthorn, “We have been inspired by so many iconic films over Disney Animation’s 100 years, especially stories where we explore the power of someone with a wish, combined with the conviction to make that wish come true. Being able to honor that legacy with this incredible story and these amazing characters has been a joy for our entire team.”
ABOUT THE MOVIE
In “Wish,” Asha, a sharp-witted idealist, makes a wish so powerful that it is answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, Asha and Star confront a most formidable foe—the ruler of Rosas, King Magnifico—to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.
Featuring the voices of Academy Award®-winning actor Ariana DeBose as Asha, Chris Pine as Magnifico, and Alan Tudyk as Asha’s favorite goat, Valentino, the film is helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck (“Frozen,” “Frozen 2”) and Fawn Veerasunthorn (“Raya and the Last Dragon”), produced by Peter Del Vecho (“Frozen,” “Frozen 2”) and co-produced by Juan Pablo Reyes (“Encanto”). Jennifer Lee (“Frozen,” “Frozen 2”) executive produces—Lee and Allison Moore (“Night Sky,” “Manhunt”) are writers on the project.
With original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer/songwriter/musician Benjamin Rice, plus score by composer Dave Metzger, “Wish” opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023.
SoCal and Hawaii both offer some stunning sites and fun activities. But why bother going to the latter with the abundance of beaches and sun in the former? Aside from Hawaii’s gorgeous scenery, the islands are rich with culture and history you won’t be able to find elsewhere. Oahu alone has some fantastic offerings; whether it’s hiking at Diamond Head, sunbathing at Waikiki Beach, or even relaxing at the Disney Resort & Spa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Even the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport—also known as the Honolulu Airport—can give you a taste of life in Hawaii.
Here are some things you can do at the airport before enjoying the rest of your trip:
Arrange a lei greeting
A Hawaiian lei greeting can give you a traditional welcome experience to the islands. They’re made with a lot of love and care, symbolizing warmth, affection, and respect. The materials and color of the lei are also rooted in tradition; each main Hawaiian island has a representative color and plant, which can be seen in your lei. In Oahu, you will likely find yellow flowers called ilima in your lei. These are Oahu’s official flowers, and yellow is the island’s representative color.
Lei greetings can be arranged for yourself, your group, or a loved one before your trip, and you can receive them when you land at the airport. There are also some stores near Honolulu airport where you can purchase them. Be sure to handle them with the same respect and care that went into making them.
Get a rental car
One of the best ways to get around Oahu is by car. It gives you much freedom to choose your destinations and activities and can be more budget-friendly than tours or public transportation. Car rentals at Honolulu Airport have become much easier and more efficient, as a brand new car rental structure has recently been completed at the airport. All of the major car rental companies are now located at the new CONRAC Consolidated Car Rental Facility. Renting a car isn’t a requirement to enjoy your Hawaii trip, but If you’re planning to tour Oahu or stay on the North Shore, a car will make your life easier.
Rent a car that will suit your needs for the trip. If you’re just planning to travel to various spots on the island, a smaller car that fits your group and your luggage just right will do. If you’re going to go to the beach a lot or do activities that need a lot of gear, rent a bigger car with more room to fit your equipment. Take into consideration gas prices, your budget, and how you plan to spend your time in Hawaii before choosing a car.
Hawaii is known and loved for its wide array of activities, but there are many things to do and see at Honolulu Airport alone. One of its underrated gems is the Honolulu Airport Cultural Gardens, which have been a feature of the place for decades and are only improving. The gardens display the influence of Chinese, Japanese, and Hawaiian heritage.
It’s the perfect place to relax and escape the stress of travel; seeing the beautiful ponds and lush greenery is sure to put you at ease. Whether you’ve just landed or are heading back to SoCal, it’s a great stop to get a dose of the islands’ culture.
Ready to book your own Hawaiin Trip? Click here to Get a FREE QUOTE Now! We are a Hawaii Destination Expert let us help plan your vacation.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Disney Cruise Line and, to celebrate, the entire fleet will be welcoming aboard a variety of delicious eats and sips inspired by the shimmering seas. Here is a first look at what tasty options you’ll have to sea to believe.
As the “Silver Anniversary at Sea” draws near, the talented pastry chefs and mixologists have been hard at work creating items sure to make a splash, because what better way to celebrate than with flavor?
Let’s jump in and take a peek at all of the shimmering sweets, sips, and novelties setting sail this summer from May through September! Get a FREE QUOTE on your Magical Disney Sailing!
First up, here are the treats that will be available. The 25th Disney Cruise Line Cupcake features a decadent vanilla sponge cake topped with vanilla frosting, 25th chocolate décor, and, of course, shimmering sprinkles. It’s not just beautiful but delicious too! This sweet selection will be available via amenities on the ship.
If guests love chocolate and candy, they’re in luck because there’s a special item specifically crafted for the sweet tooths out there at all the sweet shops on each of the ships – the Mickey Chocolate Sphere. This sweet treat showcases a chocolate Mickey Mouse sphere adorned with the 25th emblem and is filled – yes, filled – with a variety of candy pieces. Simply crack it open and treat yourself.
At both Cabana’s and Marceline’s Market locations, two of the desserts will be getting a Silver Anniversary at Sea upgrade. The 3 Layer Carrot Cake with lemon frosting will be adding 25th chocolate décor and the Disney Cruise Line Anniversary Chocolate Marquise will feature rich chocolate truffle crème topped with the 25th chocolate décor as well!
Fan of chocolate cookies? We ‘shore’ hope so! At the concierge lounge, the Chocolate Cream Cookie enrobes a chocolate cream cookie with dulce de leche filling into rich dark chocolate and is decorated with the Silver Anniversary at Sea logo as well as the signature shimmering sprinkles. Also in concierge, the Celebration Cupcake tops a tasty red velvet sponge cake with vanilla frosting, shimmering sprinkles, and 25th chocolate décor.
Captain Minnie is also joining in on the anniversary festivities with the Vanilla Crisped Rice Treat offered at all Cove Café locations. This vanilla-flavored crisped rice treat puts Minnie at the helm with special décor for both her and the anniversary.
Last but certainly not least for food, signature desserts throughout the entire fleet will be getting a tasty enhancement. All of these spectacular sweets will be adding a special 25th chocolate piece to their already stunning presentation. At Palo, the classic Chocolate Soufflé with double chocolate sauce, vanilla crème anglaise, and vanilla bean gelato will also have a chocolate 25th-anniversary piece for everyone to enjoy!
What makes a refreshing Coca-Cola event better? When it’s decked out in Disney Cruise Line Silver Anniversary at Sea décor, that’s what! At Preludes and beverage locations on board, guests will be able to purchase one of these special bottles as a tasty way to celebrate this momentous occasion.
For those over 21, there is an adult beverage guests won’t want to miss at certain lounges across the fleet. The signature Jubilee by the Sea cocktail combines 818 Blanco Tequilla, Luxardo Marashino, and fresh lemon juice with a sparkly, silver dusting and a shimmering blue sugar rim. guests will even get to bring home a special bookmark featuring how to make this tasty cocktail at home.
Additionally, as guests are sipping on their favorite alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail, they may even see the exclusive 25th Anniversary coaster and napkins showcased only during these celebratory sailings.
If guests are looking to take home some of the fun home with them, we’ve also got them covered. Available at coffee shops on board, guests will discover the Specialty Coffee Mug with a unique anniversary design featuring the Disney Cruise Line fleet and even Mickey Mouse himself. These mugs also come with specialty coffee!
The beer drinkers out there can also bring home a special keepsake from their sailing – the 25th Anniversary Beer Mugsketched with the anniversary logo.
And finally, no Disney celebration is complete without a popcorn bucket! For these special adventures, guests will be able to purchase the Silver Anniversary at Sea Popcorn Bucket showcasing 25 years of Disney Ships, from the very first, the Disney Magic, all the way to the fleet’s newest addition, the Disney Wish!
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(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)
For 100 years, The Walt Disney Company has created unforgettable stories and lifelong memories for generations of families. Some of our favorite memories are tied to visits to Walt Disney World, seeing Disney stories brought to life and getting the chance to experience them in magical ways.
The entire Walt Disney World Cast is excited to join in the celebration of Disney100, and everyone is invited to be part of the fun! Everyone can now experience magical, limited-time offerings sprinkled throughout the resort. Here are six great ways to commemorate this momentous milestone, with many more to come.
Say Hi to Mickey and Minnie in Their Platinum Best
EPCOT will be the center of the Disney100 celebration later this year at Walt Disney World. Recently opened attractions like the exhilarating family thrill coaster Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and the captivating 4D Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure bring even more family fun to the park where the impossible becomes possible. Even more is in store as the park’s multi-year transformation culminates later this year during the Disney100 celebration.
Has everyone been looking forward to seeing Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their new dazzling platinum outfits? Guests will be able to hug and take photos with the duo in their platinum outfits at EPCOT later this year. What a way to celebrate this major milestone and the legacy that their beloved stories represent,
Admire Special Spaceship Earth Lighting
The night sky will light up with a dazzling spectacle of colors and lights as Spaceship Earth honors Disney100 with a special display later in 2023. Here’s a first look at what’s sure to be a memorable moment during the celebration.
Walt Disney Imagineering has been dreaming up new ways to honor this important milestone by turning to their own cherished memories and favorite Disney stories as they create this one-of-a-kind display.
“The Show Lighting Team at Walt Disney Imagineering has been amazed at our guests’ reaction to the nightly shows on Spaceship Earth,” said Jason Read, Show Lighting Designer Principal for Walt Disney Imagineering. “We’ve helped celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World, EPCOT’s 40th and the park’s signature festivals. Now, we’re excited to have Spaceship Earth ring in the biggest celebration yet, the 100th Anniversary of the Walt Disney Company.”
“We’re also inspired by many things from the history of the company, its characters, theme parks and shows – even the Disney100 opening logo that plays before our feature films during this anniversary,” Read continued. “You may see homages to everything from the ‘Wonderful World of Disney’ television show opening to Mickey balloons that we sell on Main Street, U.S.A.”
Take a Selfie in Front of a Disney100 Backdrop
Whenever we make our way to Walt Disney World, we get a rush of adrenaline thinking about the magic that awaits us and you won’t want to miss this opportunity to snap a few photos as a way to remember your visit during this very special celebration. This photo-op is perfect for the entire family and is a great way to start the day. If you are not going to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, don’t worry. You’ll be able to snap photos with Disney100 backdrops at all four theme parks plus Disney Springs.
Keep an Eye Out for Surprise Character Visits at Disney Resort Hotels
If you have ever had the joy of staying in one of our enchanting Disney Resort hotels, you may have witnessed the magic of various Disney characters stopping by for an impromptu photo opportunity. As the Disney100 celebration ramps up at Walt Disney World, guests may run into some of their favorite Disney characters in their platinum best as they pop up at various Disney Resort hotels. They never know when or where they’ll show up next!
Celebrate With New Food and Drinks
The celebration doesn’t stop with character greetings and fun photo ops; guests will also be able to indulge in some Disney100 treats across the resort. Beginning May 1, guests can enjoy the Disney100 Petite Cake for a limited time at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs. This mouthwatering dessert has layers of vanilla chiffon, berry mousse, and berry compote, all topped with a celebratory Disney100 Medallion macaron.
The Disney Culinary team has been dreaming up all kinds of delicious dishes to commemorate the milestone, and this is just the beginning.
“The culinary team has the wonderful opportunity to use food for storytelling,” Chef Amanda said. “We get to make special themed treats that bring guests into the story, letting them feel immersed in a tangible and very delicious way.”
“The inspiration of this cake pulls from the rich purple and platinum colors used for the Disney100 celebration,” Chef Amanda shared. “The drapery on the sides of the cake represents the traditional bunting that adorns Main Street, U.S.A. for special occasions. And of course, Mickey Mouse is proudly represented on the front of the cake because as we all know: ‘It all started with a mouse.’”
Find the Perfect Disney100 Memento
Guests may have spotted and already started to collect some of the amazing Disney100 merchandise that’s popping up at Walt Disney World. To help them prepare for what’s to come, a little fairy told us about the new Disney100 Cinderella Premium Bucket that will be exclusive to Magic Kingdom. This dazzling souvenir is intricately designed, and great for the entire family. Stay tuned for more details on when this beauty will make its debut. For now, guests will be able to enjoy drinks and popcorn in the new Disney100 refillable cups available now at the Disney Resort hotels and popcorn buckets at all four theme parks and Disney Springs.
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As everyone can see, the celebration is just getting started at Walt Disney World, and there’s much more to come!
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If guests are still working their way toward the Pearl Castaway Club tier, don’t worry – we still have a special gift for them! Castaway Club members who sail during the “Silver Anniversary at Sea” this summer will receive a limited-edition framed art print (one per stateroom) to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime celebration while supplies last. As shown above, this design was created by Disney artist Joe Kaminski, whose work is featured in The Art of Disney galleries, Disney resort hotels, and Disney Cruise Line ships.
