During ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball, the trailer for Marvel Studios’ espionage thriller “Secret Invasion” debuted and is now available. This original series is premiering June 21, exclusively on Disney+.
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 have made a life for themselves 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.
Happy Earth Month! What better time to talk about life-sized recycled elephant sculptures, plant-based treats, an inspiring new series, a 25th park anniversary and so much more? There is so much to share about how Disney celebrates throughout April, so let’s get started.
Disney is committed to taking meaningful action to support a healthier planet for future generations. By reducing the environmental footprint, investing in animal care and conservation, and telling stories that inspire action, Disney is continuing longstanding work to ensure that people, plants, and animals have a healthy place to call home. These collective efforts are known as Disney Planet Possible — tangible actions that put possibility into practice and inspire optimism for a brighter, more sustainable future for us all.
Celebrate 25 Years of Innovation & Conservation at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will celebrate its 25th anniversary this Earth Day. Since it opened in 1998, this one-of-a-kind theme park has embraced the magic of nature by offering awe-inspiring animal encounters and thrilling attractions. Disney’s Animals, Science, and Environment team lead the way in providing best-in-class animal care, connects guests to nature, and engages in scientific programs focused on conserving wildlife in Disney’s backyard and beyond while inspiring all individuals to care for wildlife and wild places through everyday actions.
And since 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $120 million and the expertise of our dedicated teams to support organizations working with communities to save wildlife, inspire action, and protect the planet.
In April, there will be several new ways to join in the celebration of Earth Day and this milestone, including new sweet and savory treats, specialty merchandise, limited-time character sightings, and a National Geographic photo spot at the entrance of the park in celebration of the second season of “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom” on Disney+.
At Disneyland Resort, guests can enjoy delicious dishes from Paradise Garden Grill’s new fully plant-based menu for the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, now until April 25. Kristen Kish from National Geographic’s Restaurants at the End of the World will also be stopping by the Festival for a cooking demonstration on April 22 and 23. In addition, Disneyland Resort cast members are sharing their love of Disney and the environment by designing unique works of art as part of the annual Environmental Art Challenge.
The art is created using waste found in cast members’ work areas ranging from park maps, plastic bottles, bubble wrap, and more. Guests can join in on the fun and vote on their favorite art piece at Stage 17 located in the patio area near the Super Store featuring Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure park.
We’re excited about what Disney is doing as we work towards a more sustainable future, and we remain committed to making a difference—not just during Earth Month, but year-round!
“Walt Disney: An American Original” is a captivating biography penned by Bob Thomas, offering an in-depth look at the life and legacy of the legendary Walt Disney. As one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry, Disney’s creative genius and pioneering spirit have touched the lives of countless individuals worldwide. This comprehensive biography takes readers on an engaging journey through Disney’s life, from his humble beginnings to his unparalleled successes. With its meticulously researched content and heartfelt storytelling, “Walt Disney: An American Original” is a must-read for anyone interested in the man behind the magic.
A Compelling Portrait of Walt Disney
Bob Thomas paints an intimate and compelling portrait of Walt Disney in this engaging biography. Drawing from interviews, personal letters, and Disney’s own words, Thomas delves deep into the various aspects of Disney’s life, including his childhood, his family life, and his entrepreneurial journey. The book not only highlights Disney’s triumphs and innovations but also his struggles and failures, providing a well-rounded view of the man who revolutionized the world of animation and entertainment.
“Walt Disney: An American Original” explores the various facets of Disney’s life, from his early years as an animator to the creation of his first studio, the birth of Mickey Mouse, and the development of the Disney empire. Readers will gain valuable insights into Disney’s creative process, his drive for perfection, and the relentless passion that fueled his dreams.
An Accessible and Engaging Narrative
Bob Thomas has a gift for storytelling, and his narrative is both accessible and engaging. He strikes a perfect balance between providing thorough research and crafting a compelling, page-turning story. The book captures the essence of Disney’s spirit, allowing readers to feel as though they are experiencing the magic of his life and accomplishments firsthand.
The author’s attention to detail and commitment to accuracy make “Walt Disney: An American Original” a reliable and informative resource. Readers will come away with a profound appreciation for the depth and breadth of Disney’s impact on the entertainment industry and the world as a whole.
A Must-Read for Disney Fans and Beyond
“Walt Disney: An American Original” is an essential read for Disney fans who wish to learn more about the man behind the magic. However, its appeal extends beyond the realm of Disney enthusiasts. The book offers valuable lessons in determination, creativity, and leadership, making it a relevant and inspiring read for anyone interested in personal growth and success.
“Walt Disney: An American Original” is a compelling and thoroughly researched biography that brings the life and legacy of Walt Disney into sharp focus. Bob Thomas’s engaging narrative and commitment to accuracy create a vivid and captivating portrait of the visionary who forever changed the landscape of animation and entertainment. This book is not only an essential addition to the library of any Disney fan but also a valuable resource for anyone seeking inspiration and lessons from one of history’s most influential figures.
Complete with a collection of rare photographs, “Walt Disney: An American Original” is a fascinating and inspirational work that captures the spirit of Walt Disney.
This Commemorative Edition includes new:
introductions from Jeff Kurtti and Marcy Carriker Smothers
a 32-page photo insert with rare behind-the-scenes photos
endnotes to add further context and connect Walt’s story to today
Since California has experienced tons of Rain this year, Knott’s is extending the Boysenberry Festival three additional weekends. Guests can enjoy the unique boysenberry-inspired food and wine festival daily, now through April 16, and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, April 21-23, April 28-April 30, and May 5-7.
Also, National Boysenberry Day is On Monday, April 3, and Knott’s Berry Farm is celebrating National Boysenberry Day to commemorate its historical roots and the little berry that started it all, the boysenberry.
In 1932 Walter and Cordelia Knott put their stamp on the berry world by being the first to harvest the boysenberry successfully. The Knott family then began selling boysenberry jams, jellies, and preserves, and the popularity of their products later led to the birth of Knott’s Berry Farm.
Today all the boysenberries in the world can trace their roots back to Knott’s. To show love to the berry that placed our park on the map, Knotts invites guests to dress their “berry best” with formal, purple-themed outfits for National Boysenberry Day. During the event, guests are encouraged to dress in bowties, gloves, suits, or pin-up skirts.
Guests entering the park will receive a commemorative National Boysenberry Day button to mark the occasion. At 3 pm on the Calico Mine Stage, guests dressed in their berry best will have the opportunity to participate in the Berry Style Stroll to show off their festive outfits and be a part of the special group photo to honor this national holiday.
Hilton Anaheim’s premier MIX Restaurant and Lounge is leaping into springtime with a new cocktail menu as the season of blooms begins. The restaurant and lounge, already known for handcrafted cocktails, debuts this new, specialty menu featuring fresh and all-natural ingredients, available now through April 27, 2023.
Created by the beverage team at Hilton Anaheim, the new menu boasts a variety of seasonal ingredients and an assortment of spirits encapsulating Hilton’s nationwide campaign, Women of Spirit, featuring cocktails from prominent female distillers at all of its Hilton properties. As part of this promotion, Hilton Anaheim is highlighting Assistant Distiller Lexie Phillips’ creations with two special cocktails– the Ginger Mint Julep and Blackberry Collins, both featuring Jack Daniel’s Whiskey. Recipes are available upon request.
Spring is in full swing at the restaurant and lounge, in addition to the limited-time Women in Spirit promotion, the new cocktail menu also embraces seasonal fruits such as oranges, lemons, and peaches. The new menu also includes the Youth Potion (Absolut Citron Vodka, Pama Pomegranate Liqueur, Monin Pomegranate syrup, lemonade, and freshly brewed tea), Hilton Mai Tai (Bacardi Superior rum, Myer’s Dark rum, Orange Curacao, Orgeat syrup, and freshly squeezed lime), plus a selection of nonalcoholic Mocktails such as the Don’t Call Me Shirley (fresh lemon and lime juice, Rose’s Grenadine, and club soda), and Peach Squeeze (Monin Peach syrup, orange, and lemon juice, club soda).
“We are thrilled to offer our guests and visitors this innovative, seasonal cocktail menu at our Mix Restaurant and Lounge,” said Assistant Director of Food and Beverage, Kai Urban. “These refreshing spirited drinks compliment any of Executive Chef Juan Lopez’s signature dishes, many of which incorporate local ingredients and flavors, providing our guests with elevated food and beverage experiences.”
MIX Restaurant, Hilton Anaheim’s signature restaurant, allows guests the chance to experience Executive Chef, Juan Lopez’s, culinary offerings in the form of imaginative dishes created with the finest organic and natural ingredients in the region with dishes such as Grilled Marinated Octopus (marinated in orange and pineapple juice and served with potato bravas) and the Sautéed White Bass (made with cherry soy sauce ginger reduction and forbidden rice). In the open-space atrium, MIX Lounge, guests can enjoy the new Spring Cocktail Menu plus a selection of light bites and an extensive beer and wine list. Both dining establishments are open daily from 6 am until 10 pm.
Located less than a mile from The Disneyland Resort, Hilton Anaheim, the full-service Disney® Good Neighbor hotel, offers guests a one-of-a-kind staycation with unmatched itinerary planning at the world-famous attractions nearby, a heated pool, and an unforgettable view of Disneyland’s fireworks display from any of their Disney-View Rooms. Hilton Anaheim is part of the Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s world-class brands.
For more information about the Hilton Anaheim or call to make reservations fill out our FREE QUOTE Form and one of our Travel Agents will contact you to book your Staycation or vacation.
Nestled in the picturesque hills and valleys of Southern California, Simi Valley boasts a perfect blend of urban culture and natural beauty. As a family-friendly destination, this charming city is ideal for visitors seeking outdoor adventure, historical intrigue, and a taste of local life. Here are the top 10 things to do in Simi Valley, California.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum: The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It houses exhibits showcasing the life and legacy of the 40th President of the United States. Tour the Air Force One Pavilion, see a piece of the Berlin Wall, and explore the immaculate grounds with breathtaking views of the valley.
Santa Susana Depot Museum and Model Railroad: A hidden gem in Simi Valley, the Santa Susana Depot Museum and Model Railroad offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past as a thriving railroad hub. The museum features historical artifacts, photos, and a highly detailed model railroad that brings the past to life.
Corriganville Park: Once a bustling movie ranch that provided the backdrop for many Western films and TV shows, Corriganville Park now serves as a scenic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore its various hiking trails, picnic areas, and interpretive signs that detail the park’s unique history.
Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center: Catch a live theater performance, musical, or art exhibition at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. This local venue hosts a variety of events, showcasing the city’s thriving arts community and providing entertainment for all ages.
Rocky Peak Park: For those seeking a challenging hike with rewarding views, Rocky Peak Park is the perfect destination. The park offers numerous trails that wind through the beautiful Santa Susana Mountains, providing panoramic vistas of Simi Valley and beyond.
Strathearn Historical Park & Museum: Step back in time at the Strathearn Historical Park & Museum, which preserves Simi Valley’s rich history. Tour the authentically restored buildings, enjoy the beautiful grounds, and participate in engaging events and programs that bring the past to life.
Simi Hills Golf Course: Golf enthusiasts will love playing a round at the Simi Hills Golf Course. This challenging, 18-hole course is surrounded by picturesque scenery and offers a peaceful escape from the city.
Bottle Village: Explore the eccentric Bottle Village, a unique folk art environment created by Tressa “Grandma” Prisbrey in the 1950s. Made primarily from discarded glass bottles and other recycled materials, this fascinating attraction showcases the power of imagination and resourcefulness.
Chumash Indian Museum: Discover the history and culture of the Chumash people, who inhabited the area for thousands of years, at the Chumash Indian Museum. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that provide insight into the lives of the Chumash and their relationship with the land.
Arroyo Simi Bike Path: Take a leisurely bike ride or walk along the Arroyo Simi Bike Path. This paved, multi-use trail stretches over 12 miles, meandering along the Arroyo Simi creek and offering opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Simi Valley, California, is a delightful destination with plenty of attractions to suit all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this charming city has something for everyone. Be sure to add these top 10 things to do in Simi Valley to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
In April, Walt Disney World Resort will begin honoring the Company milestone. Monthly spotlights on some Disney favorite franchises like Pixar, Mickey & Friends, and Disney Princess will help Guests fully enjoy and immerse themselves in the many Disney stories they love.
The Disney100 Celebration commemorates the enchantment of Disney storytelling with Guests who have made lifelong memories and will continue to enjoy the connections and special moments made during their visits to Walt Disney World Resort
Guests will see and can celebrate these stories and lovable Characters in existing experiences such as Character caravans, parades, photo opportunities, merchandise, attractions, experiences, and more. In addition, the Disney Resort Hotels will offer movies under the stars and poolside parties with themed activities for more ways to celebrate these stories.
Later this year, the Disney100 Celebration comes to EPCOT, inviting you to join in and see the transformation of the Park with all the magic of possibilities. It’s the culmination of the EPCOT transformation with its multitude of new and fan-favorite experiences.
Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:
A platinum Mickey Mouse sculpture will welcome you to celebrate at EPCOT.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, opening in late 2023, will allow Guests to explore an outdoor trail in a lush environment that tells the story of the cycle of water.
Mickey and Minnie Mouse will dress in their celebratory platinum outfits.
At the beautiful new World Celebration Garden, also slated to open in late 2023, Dreamers Point will showcase an evocative statue of Walt Disney, offering another perfect opportunity for photographs.
A brand-new nighttime spectacular, scheduled to launch in late 2023, will light the sky over the World Showcase Lagoon.
Here are some of the Disney stories that will be celebrated in the coming months.
April: Disney’s conservation efforts and the 25th Anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will be the focus.
May: All things from a galaxy far, far away will be featured with an emphasis on Star Wars.
June: The delightful Pixar Characters will take fun to infinity and beyond.
July: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and friends will provide “swell fun” for all.
August: The Disney Princesses and beloved Frozen Characters take the throne.
The Disney+ Original Movie “Crater” will debut exclusively on the service on May 12. Directed by Kyle Patrick Alvarez, the coming-of-age sci-fi adventure stars Isaiah Russell-Bailey, Mckenna Grace, Billy Barratt, Orson Hong, Thomas Boyce, and Scott Mescudi.
A 21 Laps Production, the film was written by John Griffin and produced by Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, and Dan Cohen. The film’s executive producers are Emily Morris, John G. Scotti, Rpin Suwannath, Gordon Gray, Paris Latsis, and Terry Douglas.
“Crater” is the story of Caleb Channing (Russell-Bailey), who was raised in a lunar mining colony and is about to be permanently relocated to an idyllic faraway planet following the death of his father (Mescudi).
But before leaving, to fulfill his dad’s last wish, he and his three best friends, Dylan (Barratt), Borney (Hong) and Marcus (Boyce), and a new arrival from Earth, Addison (Grace), hijack a rover for one final adventure on a journey to explore a mysterious crater.
From racing across the Grid on TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise and saving the galaxy on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT, to immersing yourself in Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park or checking out Roundup Rodeo BBQ, the newest eatery at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, there’s no limit to the excitement that awaits guests at The Most Magical Place on Earth.
Here are some of the top reasons to be excited for a Walt Disney World Resort stay this summer:
1. Saving with Special Resort Offers
Disney World is offering summer travel deals that allow guests to save up to 25% on stays at select Disney Resort hotels. Florida residents and Annual Passholders can also take advantage of additional offers available at DisneyWorld.com/Offers.
We’re also excited to share that Annual Passholders can save 30% on select voyages aboard Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser – a first-of-its-kind 2-night immersive adventure that continues to be among our highest-rated experiences by guests visiting Walt Disney World! Learn more at StarWarsGalacticStarcruiser.com/Passholder.
2. Getting Extra Time to Play in the Parks
One of the best (and most popular) benefits of staying at a Disney Resort hotel is extra time in the theme parks*, where guests can take advantage of a 30-minute early entry into the theme parks – every day! And when they stay at a Disney Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort, they can also enjoy extended evening hours, in select parks, on select nights. While summer brings longer days, this extra time in the parks will allow guests to experience more Disney thrills with friends and family!
3. ICYMI: Complimentary Overnight Self-Parking is Back!
Disney World has made several updates to improve the guest experience, including bringing back complimentary overnight self-parking. Whether renting a car or taking the ultimate Disney road trip, guests can enjoy this perk when staying at a hotel within the Disney Resorts Collection. Disney Resort hotel guests can also enjoy complimentary standard parking at Walt Disney World theme parks and complimentary on-site transportation options like buses, monorails, boats, and Disney Skyliner.
*For early theme park entry, guests will need a Resort ID, valid admission and a park reservation. For extended evening hours, guests will need a Resort ID, valid admission and a park reservation (or a ticket or annual pass with the Park Hopper option, provided they entered the park where they made their reservation earlier in the day).
Are you ready to book? Click here for a FREE QUOTE from our Travel Agents.
This holiday season, get ready for an action-packed, all-star, rainbow-colored family reunion like no other as Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake return for the new chapter in DreamWorks Animation’s blockbuster musical franchise: Trolls Band Together.
After two films of true friendship and relentless flirting, Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) are now officially, finally, a couple (#broppy)! As they grow closer, Poppy discovers that Branch has a secret past. He was once part of her favorite boyband phenomenon, BroZone, with his four brothers: Floyd (Golden Globe-nominated electropop sensation Troye Sivan), John Dory (Eric André; Sing 2), Spruce (Grammy winner Daveed Diggs; Hamilton) and Clay (Grammy winner Kid Cudi; Don’t Look Up). BroZone disbanded when Branch was still a baby, as did the family, and Branch hasn’t seen his brothers since.
But when Branch’s bro Floyd is kidnapped for his musical talents by a pair of nefarious pop-star villains—Velvet (Emmy winner Amy Schumer; Trainwreck) and Veneer (Grammy winner and Tony nominee Andrew Rannells; The Book of Mormon)—Branch and Poppy embark on a harrowing and emotional journey to reunite the other brothers and rescue Floyd from a fate even worse than pop-culture obscurity.
Featuring Trolls’ signature psychedelic joy-bomb of new and classic pop hits, Trolls Band Together stars a dazzling cast of musical superstars and comedic powerhouses as new franchise characters, including four-time Grammy nominee and Latin Grammy winner Camila Cabello (Cinderella) as Viva; Zosia Mamet (The Flight Attendant) as Crimp; and 12-time Emmy winning drag icon RuPaul Charles as Miss Maxine.
The returning cast includes Grammy, Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Zooey Deschanel as Bridget; Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Gristle, the Icona Pop duo Aino Jawo and Caroline Hjelt as Satin and Chenille, Grammy winner Anderson. Paak as Prince D, comedian Ron Funches as Cooper, SAG nominee Kunal Nayyar as Guy Diamond and Emmy-winning Saturday Night Live legend Kenan Thompson as Tiny Diamond.
Trolls Band Together is steered by returning director Walt Dohrn and producer Gina Shay, and is co-directed by Tim Heitz (head of story, Trolls World Tour). DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls films—2016’s Trolls and 2020’s Trolls World Tour—have sung and danced their way to record-breaking success, earning an Oscar® nomination for Best Original Song and fueling one of the largest and most beloved entertainment brands in the world.
Check out a brand-new trailer for Disney and Pixar’s “Elemental,” an all-new original feature film that transports moviegoers to an extraordinary place called Element City, where a host of elements live and work.
The trailer showcases each element—air, earth, water, and fire—and what sets them apart according to Ember, a quick-witted and fiery woman who’s always stayed close to home in Firetown. In “Elemental,” which opens in theaters on June 16, she finally ventures out of her comfort zone to explore this spectacular world born from the imaginations of Pixar’s filmmakers and specifically crafted for the big-screen experience.
Element City is inspired by big cities around the globe and embraces theorized contributions from each elemental community—from giant pine-tree-like buildings and waterfall skyscrapers to a tornado-shaped arena called Cyclone Stadium.
Joining the previously announced voice cast including Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie as Ember and Wade, respectively, are Ronnie del Carmen as Ember’s soon-to-be-retired dad, Bernie; Shila Ommi as Ember’s love-seeking mom, Cinder; Wendi McLendon-Covey as Wade’s stormy and Air-Ball-loving boss, Gale; Catherine O’Hara as Wade’s welcoming mom, Brook; Mason Wertheimer as Ember’s admiring earth neighbor, Clod; and Joe Pera as an overgrown city bureaucrat, Fern.
Directed by Peter Sohn, produced by Denise Ream, p.g.a., and executive produced by Pete Docter, “Elemental” features a screenplay by John Hoberg & Kat Likkel, and Brenda Hsueh with a story by Sohn, Hoberg & Likkel and Hsueh. The film’s original score was composed and conducted by Thomas Newman.
The surprises didn’t stop there, as Funko brought the house down with Pop! Talk Live at WonderCon 2023. The night was filled with giveaways, celebrity guests, and a celebration of Funko’s 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, founders Brian Mariotti and Mike Becker even brought out Disney Legend and Imagineer Bob Gurr, who was inducted as Funko’s first-ever hall of fame inductee.
Becker and Mariotti also dived into some new Funko product designs, as well as pulled the curtain back on some exclusive Loungefly Designs, including some chillingly perfect Haunted Mansion accessories that are sure to find well more than 999 happy haunts wanting to take them home!
Details were also shared on a brand new cross-country tour, appropriately titled, Fun on the Run.
Fans get excited as Funko reveals the Fun on the Run Road Tour
Funko will be taking to the road in 2023 across the united states, all featuring exclusive stickers and posters commemorating each stop as they make their way toward San Diego Comic-Con.
Funko also gave fans a look at some of the Fun On the Run exclusives, which will include a Box of Fun celebration of 25 years of Funko history, a 4-pin set, a Space Ghost Soda, a Freddy Funko as Batman Pop!, and so much more. We can’t wait to experience the tour.
As the panel came to a close, attendees were given a limited edition Freddy Funko Arena Pop! figure, featuring Freddy as the classic Disney character, Peter Pan. The figure is a WonderCon and panel attendee-only exclusive, sure to catch the eyes of the most hardcore Funko fanatics.
"For the first time in forever," experience the musical phenomenon which has taken the world by storm. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature...