The trailer and poster for Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” the live-action reimagining of the studio’s animated musical classic, are here! Two of the film’s stars, Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy, debuted the trailer on ABC’s live broadcast of the 95th Annual Academy Awards. “The Little Mermaid,” helmed by visionary filmmaker Rob Marshall, opens exclusively in theaters nationwide on May 26, 2023.
“The Little Mermaid” is the beloved story of Ariel, a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. The youngest of King Triton’s daughters and the most defiant, Ariel longs to find out more about the world beyond the sea and, while visiting the surface, falls for the dashing Prince Eric. While mermaids are forbidden to interact with humans, Ariel must follow her heart. She makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, which gives her a chance to experience life on land but ultimately places her life – and her father’s crown – in jeopardy.
The film stars singer and actress Halle Bailey (“grown-ish”) as Ariel; Jonah Hauer-King (“A Dog’s Way Home”) as Prince Eric; Tony Award® winner Daveed Diggs (“Hamilton”) as the voice of Sebastian; Awkwafina (“Raya and the Last Dragon”) as the voice of Scuttle; Jacob Tremblay (“Luca”) as the voice of Flounder; Noma Dumezweni (“Mary Poppins Returns”) as Queen Selina; Art Malik (“Homeland”) as Sir Grimsby; with Oscar® winner Javier Bardem (“No Country for Old Men”) as King Triton; and two-time Academy Award® nominee Melissa McCarthy (“Can You Ever Forgive Me?” “Bridesmaids”) as Ursula.
“The Little Mermaid” is directed by Oscar® nominee Rob Marshall (“Chicago,” “Mary Poppins Returns”)with a screenplay by two-time Oscar nominee David Magee (“Life of Pi,” “Finding Neverland”). The songs feature music from multiple Academy Award® winner Alan Menken (“Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin”) and lyrics by Howard Ashman, and new lyrics by three-time Tony Award® winner Lin-Manuel Miranda. The film is produced by two-time Emmy® winner Marc Platt (“Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert,” “Grease Live!”), Miranda, two-time Emmy winner John DeLuca (“Tony Bennett: An American Classic”), and Rob Marshall, with Jeffrey Silver (“The Lion King”) serving as executive producer.
Disney+ has revealed the May 24 premiere date for the Disney+ Original series “American Born Chinese,” in a newly-released:30 TV spot that will air during tonight’s Oscars telecast’s commercial breaks. This:30 first (watch it below) look at the genre-hopping action-comedy from Disney Branded Television series produced by 20th Television celebrates the show’s three Oscar nominees: Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, and guest star Stephanie Hsu.
Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Gene Luen Yang, “American Born Chinese” tells the story of Jin Wang, an average teenager juggling his high school social life with his home life. When he meets a new foreign student on the first day of the school year, even more worlds collide as Jin is unwittingly entangled in a battle of Chinese mythological gods.
The coming-of-age adventure features an international all-star cast, including Academy® Award-Nominees and Golden Globe winners Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Ben Wang (“Chang Can Dunk”), two-time International Emmy Award nominee Yeo Yann Yann (“Wet Season”), Chin Han (“Mortal Kombat”), Daniel Wu (“Reminiscence”), former Taekwondo champion Jimmy Liu and Sydney Taylor (“Just Add Magic”). Academy® Award nominee Stephanie Hsu (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”) guest stars.
Emmy® Award-winning writer/producer Kelvin Yu (“Bob’s Burgers,” “Central Park”) serves as executive producer and showrunner. Destin Daniel Cretton (Marvel’s “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” “Short Term 12”) is set to direct and serves as executive producer, alongside Melvin Mar and Jake Kasdan (both of “Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.,” “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and “Jumanji: The Next Level”), Erin O’Malley (“Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.”), Asher Goldstein (“Short Term 12,” “Just Mercy”) and Gene Luen Yang.
A look at a recently uncovered look at lost Walt Disney footage. Courtesy of Heritage Auctions.
A once-forgotten piece of Disney history has just been uncovered, unlocking a new, never-before-seen look at the earliest days of Disneyland Park, and more importantly, a special glimpse of the man who began the magic: Walt Disney himself. With this year marking the milestone 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company, what better way to commemorate this momentous moment in history than getting a chance to revisit some of Walt’s special memories at the Happiest Place on Earth.
The reel, recently uncovered by a local Orange County couple, is part of a larger auction of rare vintage Disney memorabilia, hosted by Heritage Auctions. The details of the auction, recently shared by local news agency, KTLA, showcase the lost footage along with other highly sought after pieces of significance, such as a Main Street bench, concept art, blueprints, and a cabin from one of Disneyland’s earliest monorails.
The reel contains over 5 minutes of colorized footage, featuring moments of Walt Disney and his band of Mouseketeers welcoming the “Snow White Bus” to Disneyland Park in 1955, unlocking some of the world’s first looks at what looks like a long-forgotten ceremony, christening the very first Disneyland Express bus line from Los Angeles to Anaheim.
The “Snow White Bus” would help usher in a new era of public transportation, welcoming travelers of all ages to Walt Disney’s new theme park and acting as the founding of a fleet that is still in existence today through the LA Metro Line, operating daily out of Los Angeles to the very gates of Disneyland off of Harbor Blvd in Anaheim.
Directly from Disneyland’s own transit information page, guests can still board the Disneyland Express bus line through the LA Metro Line 460, which operates northbound on Figueroa St. and eastbound on 6th St., westbound on 5th St. and southbound on Flower St, enters and exits the I-110 (Harbor Transitway) at Adams Blvd. It then runs along the I-110 and I-105 to the Norwalk Green Line Station, making stops at 37th St., Slauson, and Manchester Stations.
It all connects to a truly incredible moment in Walt Disney’s story that adds to an already impressive history, giving a newfound appreciation for the La Metro, and creating a magical echo of the past through Line 460.
The reel will be on public display for the first time, along with other items from the auction’s catalog at the Beverly Hills Auction House from March 20th through 24th from 10 AM to 5 PM.
The Mouseketeers of Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse Club arrive at Disneyland in 1955. Image Courtesy of Heritage Auctions
Loungefly and Lisa Frank, Inc., has announced a new, colorful, and imaginative collection to celebrate the birthday of the fan-favorite tiger club, Forrest! Arriving this spring, the eye-catching collection is the latest addition to Loungefly’s lineup of fan-favorite accessories.
Available on Loungefly.com, LisaFrank.com, and in select retailers, the Lisa Frank-inspired assortment showcases cheerful splashes of bright, multicolored hues with its rainbow cloud handle chain strap crossbody bag (MSRP: $80) and zip-around wallet (MSRP: $40), as well as an all-over logo printed mini backpack with a detachable rainbow waist bag (MSRP: $90).
The collection also includes a special web-exclusive sunset-colored cosplay mini backpack (MSRP: $90) and flap wallet (MSRP: $40) featuring everyone’s favorite tiger cub, Forrest, available at Loungefly’s WonderCon booth (#472) from March 24-26 and exclusively online via LisaFrank.com and Loungefly.com.
Loungefly intricately designs its backpacks, wallets, crossbody bags, apparel, and small accessories to tell wearable stories inspired by the most beloved franchises in the world. Crafted with care and precision, Loungefly leaves no detail overlooked, so fans can find value in every stitch. From bag zippers to printed linings, Loungefly’s accessories showcase an authentic passion for the fandom that collectors proudly wear.
Visit Loungefly.com to stay up-to-date with the latest Lisa Frank announcements.
The new Lisa Frank Forrest Cosplay Mini Backpack and wallet will be available in the Loungefly booth at WonderCon starting March 24, or you can get the full collection online this spring!
WonderCon is being held in Anaheim, California at the Anaheim Convention Center (800 W Katella Ave. Anaheim, CA 92802).
Disney Cruise Line (DCL) announced that they will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time during its opening season in summer 2024!
Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat at Lighthouse Point will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
Keep reading to discover all the latest details about this relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
Uniquely Designed, Sustainably Developed
When guests arrive at Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues — a bold style inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.
The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.
Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit the impact on the landscape.
Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.
Fun and Relaxation for Everyone
At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside their favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and the private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.
Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation, and other amenities.
A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.
A brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains, and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.
North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a glorious stretch of sun-drenched serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.
Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a themed kids’ club under the care of highly-trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid,” plenty of shade, and a dedicated dining area.
Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along the southwestern shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.
Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more. And a collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.
Disney’s new island destination is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas, and lunch) and convenient tram transportation.
Lighthouse Point will open for guests on select sailings in the summer of 2024. Stay tuned for more details about inaugural itineraries, signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions, and more. If you want to book a trip now fill out this form for a FREE QUOTE.
The Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, is happening now through April 25, 2023. Dining locations and a dozen Festival Marketplaces peppered throughout Disney California Adventure Park serve irresistible bites and beverages inspired by California’s diverse culinary scene.
Shareable among friends and family, a Sip and Savor Pass offers eight entitlement tabs redeemable for select food and nonalcoholic beverages at Festival Marketplaces and participating locations. A Sip and Savor Pass can also be used across multiple visits to this year’s festival.
Fully plant-based food menu
New this year, Paradise Garden Grill will be offering a plant-based food menu during the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival. Some of the new, delicious offerings include:
Torta de chilaquiles: fresh-made telera bread with green chilaquiles, chorizo beans, chipotle crema, pickled onions, cilantro, and avocado spread.
Buffalo mac and cheese topped with roasted buffalo cauliflower and accompanied by a ranch, carrot, and celery salad.
This year’s festival offers more than 60 new dishes for guests to discover, including:
Kenny’s family cheesecake topped with mixed berry compote (Berry Patch).
BBQ beef brisket slider featuring Fiscalini Farmstead smoked cheddar with dill pickles on salt and pepper brioche (Cluck-A-Doodle Moo).
IMPOSSIBLE nacho mac and cheese: cheddar mac with seasoned IMPOSSIBLE ground beef, tomatoes, olives, jalapeños, and guacamole (Avocado Time).
Elote paleta: sweet corn paleta with parm crema, chile-lime seasoning, corn crunch, and cilantro (Golden Dreams).
Grilled peach toast with ricotta-mascarpone spread and arugula salad on toasted sourdough bread (Pacific Wharf Café).
A sweet selection of delicious drinks
From specialty cocktails to nonalcoholic favorites, the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival has a wide selection of refreshing beverages. Notable highlights for 2023 include:
Flowers and bees: gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, honey, hibiscus and lavender syrups garnished with a purple pansy (Nuts About Cheese).
Raspberry limoncello-ade: limoncello, grapefruit liqueur, house-made mint syrup, raspberry syrup, and lemon juice, garnished with a white orchid (Garlic Kissed).
Echo Park cooler: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. Ceylon & raspberry rose tea, raspberry purée, lychee and rose syrups and lime juice garnished with a lime wheel (Nonalcoholic) (LA Style).
Blueberry pancake cold brew: Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. Mexico origin coffee, maple, brown butter, and demerara syrup, and oat milk with a blueberry sweet cream made with cream, oat milk, vanilla syrup, blueberry syrup, and purée (Nonalcoholic) (Berry Patch).
Returning guest favorites
Culinary adventurers may once again relish in fan-favorite small plates. Among the offerings making a comeback are:
IPA sausage dog on a pretzel roll with onion-pepper jardinière, cheddar cheese sauce, and malt vinegar-onion crunch (California Craft Brews).
Grilled top sirloin with roasted garlic-Gruyère smashed potatoes and black garlic chimichurri (Garlic Kissed).
Chile relleno empanada with arbol pepper salsa and oaxaca and cotija cheeses (Peppers Cali-Ente).
Ribeye for Two, paired with a specially selected glass of wine: a 28-ounce, bone-in ribeye with glazed baby carrots, poblano-potato bake, roasted mushrooms, cipollini onions, and bourbon-bacon compound butter, followed by cookies and cream donuts for dessert (Lamplight Lounge).
Mickey Mouse-shaped macaron: chocolate Mickey macaron filled with caramel ganache and SNICKERS bar pieces (Nuts About Cheese).
James Cameron’s Avatar: The Way of Water will be available from all major digital retailers including Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu and Movies Anywhere on March 28. The magnificent return to the world of Pandora has already proved to be both a commercial and critical smash hit, becoming the third highest-grossing film of all-time earning over $2.2 billion worldwide and receiving four Academy Award® nominations, including Best Picture.
Critics have proclaimed “James Cameron returns triumphantly to Pandora with an unparalleled epic”, calling Avatar: The Way of Water “breathtaking and magical”, “emotionally charged” and “as astonishing and enveloping as anything we’ve ever seen”.
Fans can add the film to their digital movie collection from March 28 in spectacular 4K Ultra HD™ quality and immersive Dolby Atmos audio. Plus, they can enjoy over three hours of never-before-seen bonus content featuring the filmmakers, cast and crew.
Avatar: The Way of Water reaches new heights and explores undiscovered depths as James Cameron returns to the world of Pandora in this emotionally packed action adventure. Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, Avatar: The Way of Water launches the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure.
All of this against the breathtaking backdrop of Pandora, where audiences are introduced to new Na’vi cultures and a range of exotic sea creatures that populate the majestic oceans. Nominated for numerous Academy Awards® including Best Picture, the James Cameron-directed film became the third highest-grossing box office film of all time and set a new benchmark for visual effects. Produced by Cameron and his longtime partner Jon Landau, the Lightstorm Entertainment production stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis and Kate Winslet. Joining the illustrious adult cast are talented newcomers Britain Dalton, Jamie Flatters, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Bailey Bass and Jack Champion.
Bonus Features* Inside Pandora’s Box (A series of featurettes on the challenges facing cast and crew as filmmakers devise new technologies to push the limits of cinema)
Building the World of Pandora – James Cameron and a team of talented artists combines years of research with their design skills to build the world of Pandora with new characters, creatures, indigenous clans, underwater environments and the take-no-prisoners hard-tech world of the RDA.
Capturing Pandora – James Cameron’s approach to performance capture has the cast performing in a volume rigged with infrared cameras to capture their movement, and head rig cameras to capture emotion on their faces with only the boundaries of imagination to limit them.
The Undersea World of Pandora – Co-production designer Dylan Cole and his team conceive of the marine creatures required for Avatar: The Way of Water while James Cameron and his stunt team devise extraordinary means to bring those creatures to life in a performance capture tank.
The Challenges of Pandora’s Waters – James Cameron tackles the “non-trivial challenge” of performance capture above and below the water’s surface, utilizing a wave machine and current generator to reproduce ocean conditions, and underwater vehicles to replicate creature movement.
Pandora’s Returning Characters – James Cameron reunites with his returning cast – Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang. Together they discuss the amazing evolution of their characters in Avatar: The Way of Water.
• Pandora’s Next Generation – Meet the talented young newcomers who have been cast as the next generation of Na’vi and follow them through the adventure of making Avatar: The Way of Water.
Spider’s Web – James Cameron introduced the human character of Spider into the fabric of Pandora – thus creating a host of technological challenges on set…and an incredible journey for the young actor, Jack Champion.
Becoming Na’vi – The Avatar cast is immersed in the culture of the indigenous Na’vi, living off the land in the Hawaiian rainforest and training in a multitude of disciplines in preparation for their roles.
The Reef People of Pandora – In true James Cameron style, the Metkayina reef clan has been developed with great attention to detail, bearing unique evolutionary traits and culture – with new dwellings, new clothes and different ways of life – all a result of living off the ocean.
Bringing Pandora to Life – Once James Cameron completes his virtual production process, every sequence is turned over to Wētā FX to bring Pandora to life – with unprecedented advancements in facial performance, environments and making CG water look real.
The RDA Returns to Pandora – Co-production designer Ben Procter and his team present an armada of new vehicles and human technologies that the RDA brings to Pandora – in concept design and with practical builds.
The New Characters of Pandora – Meet the important new characters of the Avatar saga played by Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Edie Falco, Brendan Cowell and Jemaine Clement.
The Sounds of Pandora – Hear how James Cameron worked with composer Simon Franglen to create the distinctive music of The Way of Water while building on James Horner’s brilliant score for Avatar and learn how Chris Boyes created the immersive sounds of Pandora.
New Zealand – Pandora’s Home – The production of the Avatar sequels is so thoroughly ensconced in New Zealand that James Cameron considers The Way of Water a “New Zealand film.” Hear reflections from the cast and crew, including the remarkable New Zealand crew, on making the film.
More from Pandora’s Box (Additional featurettes that highlight special teams within the production)
Casting – Discover the screen tests that won the talented young cast their roles in Avatar: The Way of Water.
Stunts – The Avatar stunt team isn’t just creating breathtaking action, they’re driving the story. From racing underwater on ilus, flying the skies on ikrans, to maneuvering RDA speed boats, the stunt team leaves you breathless and wanting more.
The Lab – Explore the Lightstorm Lab, the backbone of virtual production for the Avatar films. Comprised of specialized teams, the Lab builds & supports every aspect of the production – environments, motion edit, Kabuki, sequence, post-viz and software development.
The Troupe – Avatar’s Troupe is the Swiss Army Knife of acting, while playing dozens of roles on set, in the performance capture volume and on live-action sets, they bring life to Na’vi clans and RDA Recoms. They also play Na’vi-scale puppets on live-action sets.
Marketing Materials & Music Video (Marketing materials used to build audience awareness of the film)
Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength) Music Video – Multi-Grammy-winning, music superstar, The Weeknd, performs his emotionally packed end title song in the official music video for the smash hit “Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength).”
Theatrical Trailers 1 & 2 – Avatar: The Way of Water used two theatrical trailers to engage the audience. The first was a teaser trailer released 7 months before the film. The second was a standard trailer that premiered 5 weeks before the film’s release.
The new series “MPower” is now streaming on Disney+. Episodes spotlight several of the MCU’s most inspirational women heroes. “Every hero has an epic origin story and so does this series,” said Executive Producer Justin W. Hochberg. “When I conceived ‘MPower,’ I did it out of love for my teen daughter so she would have more icons to look up to, voices to learn from, and role models to help her impact the world. Today, that vision is now a reality thanks to Brie Larsen, Elizabeth Olsen, the women of Wakanda, and Zoë Saldaña, whose leadership was ‘Mpowering.’”
Saldaña is featured in episode four and serves as an Executive Producer of the series alongside Cisely and Mariel Saldana for Cinestar Pictures. “‘MPower’ is a tribute to women’s representation and empowerment,” she said. “We’re enthused to have the involvement of a diverse group of women whose voices and stories will serve as a source of inspiration. Our hope is that this series will ignite meaningful conversations and drive real change towards a more equal and inclusive world.”
“MPower” consists of four stand-alone episodes—all streaming now. From Carol Danvers and Wanda Maximoff to the women of Wakanda and “The Guardians of the Galaxy,” the series unpacks the journeys of these characters from their birth in Marvel Comics to the MCU and beyond. Archival footage, imaginative animation, and candid interviews work in tandem to profile how these characters and the women behind their success have impacted fans worldwide.
“We’re excited to help illuminate the myriad, powerful stories of women in the MCU,” said Executive Producer Mark Herzog. “We sincerely hope that the series will empower girls and women all over the world to be their authentic selves in their lives and in their careers.”
Episode Lineup:
MPOWER—THE WOMEN OF BLACK PANTHER invites viewers back to Wakanda, where women are the backbone of the world’s most powerful nation. Okoye (Danai Gurira), Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), Ayo (Florence Kasumba), and Shuri (Letitia Wright) are as unbreakable as vibranium. This episode of “MPower” dives into their roots in the original comics, how the performances were influenced by the actors’ own lived experiences, and how the spirit of Africa and black excellence shaped every aspect of the films. What an episode.
MPOWER—CAPTAIN MARVEL journeys with one of the MCU’s most powerful Super Heroes, Captain Marvel (Brie Larson)—seen through the eyes of those who helped bring her to life. Through animation and never-before-seen footage, viewers will gain a new sense of the transformation from Carol Danvers to Captain Marvel, the women who look up to her—Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) and Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani)—and how the teams behind and in front of the camera helped bring it all together.
MPOWER—SCARLET WITCH celebrates Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen), Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn), and Darcy Lewis (Kat Dennings)—plus the creative forces behind the Scarlet Witch’s iconic journey. The hero with undeniable power and a tragic backstory has withstood insurmountable odds reaching back to her childhood in Sokovia, through her years flourishing as an Avenger, and of course, her ascension to self-realization as the Scarlet Witch.
MPOWER—GAMORA explores the evolution of the captivating character, Gamora (Zoë Saldaña), from her days as an assassin to life among the Guardians of the Galaxy. As the backbone of the team of misfits, Gamora is forced to reevaluate what family means to her and address her dysfunctional relationship with her sister, Nebula (Karen Gillan). Vets of the “Guardians” movies weigh in on the plight of Gamora and how she is brought to life in an emotional and dynamic way.
Discover the fantastical world of Peridot, an upcoming real-world adventure pet game where you care for one-of-a-kind adorable creatures, raise them to adulthood as you explore the world together, and re-diversify their species.
Foster your magical Peridots, creatures who feel so real, you’ll simply love every moment you spend raising them. Pet, play, feed, and teach them tricks to keep them healthy and help them grow.
Take your Peridots on walks wherever you go and discover new places in your local neighborhood. As you explore together, you’ll uncover helpful items to keep your creatures happy and snap photos and videos to track all of your memories together.
Band together and collaborate with other players around the world to expand the Peridot species. Breed your one-of-a-kind creatures and discover the infinite possibilities of Peridot archetypes. Some can even resemble your favorite animals like cheetahs, dragons, unicorns, and more!
Coming May 9th, Pre-Register Today
Peridot Keepers wanted! Pre-register today for an exclusive glam-up item at launch.
As a thank, you, those who pre-register and play within the first two weeks of launch will be able to collect a launch-exclusive party hat cosmetic for your Dots.
Traveling is an exciting experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while exploring new destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, taking precautions can help ensure your safety while you’re on the go. Here are some tips on how to stay safe when traveling.
Research your destination
Before you set off on your journey, it’s essential to research your destination. This includes learning about the local customs, laws, and potential safety concerns. The internet is a valuable resource, and you can find information on travel advisories, crime rates, and other safety-related information. Consider consulting with travel agents, hotel staff, or other reliable sources to get a better understanding of the safety situation in your destination.
Keep your valuables safe
When traveling, it’s important to keep your valuables safe. This includes your passport, credit cards, cash, and electronics such as your phone, camera, and laptop. Invest in a travel money belt or pouch to keep your valuables close to you and out of sight. When staying in hotels or hostels, use a lock to secure your luggage, and consider using the hotel’s safe to store your valuables.
Be aware of your surroundings
One of the most important things you can do to stay safe while traveling is to be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert and be mindful of who is around you. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas that are unfamiliar to you. Use well-lit and busy streets and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas. Be cautious when accepting offers from strangers and avoid sharing personal information.
Stay connected
Staying connected with family and friends while traveling is essential for your safety. Let someone know where you are staying and the places you plan to visit. Keep them updated on your itinerary and check in with them regularly. Consider using messaging apps or social media to stay connected, and keep your phone charged and with you at all times.
Know basic self-defense
While you hope to never have to use it, knowing basic self-defense can give you confidence and peace of mind while traveling. Consider taking a self-defense class before your trip, and carry a whistle or personal alarm with you. Learn how to use public transportation and exits in case of an emergency.
Be cautious with alcohol
Alcohol can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to danger. Be cautious when drinking alcohol and avoid excessive consumption. Don’t accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended. If you do choose to drink, do so responsibly and with trusted friends.
Stay healthy
Staying healthy while traveling is essential for your safety. Carry a first aid kit with you, and research the potential health risks in your destination. Take precautions like washing your hands frequently, drinking bottled water, and using insect repellent. Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies in case of illness or injury.
Follow local laws and customs
When traveling, it’s important to respect local laws and customs. This includes dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and following cultural norms. Research the customs and laws of your destination and be mindful of how your behavior may be perceived.
Trust your instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t ignore your gut feelings, and listen to your intuition. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, leave the situation and seek help if necessary.
Staying safe while traveling requires preparation, awareness, and common sense. By researching your destination, keeping your valuables safe, being aware of your surroundings, staying connected, knowing basic self-defense, being cautious with alcohol, staying healthy, following local laws and customs, and trusting your instincts, you can have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
The time has come for fellow foodies to converge upon Knott’s Boysenberry Festival 2023. The annual celebration of the sweet and tart fruit as the main ingredient for these specialty dishes, desserts, drinks, and entertainment takes a bite of the Southern California theme park between March 10 through April 16, 2023. A great way to indulge in the new boysenberry delicacies during the festival is by purchasing a tasting card priced at $55. The tasting card offers six tastings from a selection of boysenberry-inspired dishes and drinks. A variety of signature boysenberry items will also be available for purchase a la carte. Tasting cards are available at Knotts.com or at the theme park.
This year’s event will introduce entirely new food offerings featuring more than three dozen food and drink items. A few savory dishes to note include cauliflower bites with a boysenberry curry drizzle, and a sushi burrito with spicy crab surimi, avocado, lettuce, crispy onions, sesame, and unagi sauce, all wrapped in nori with a boysenberry sweet chili dipping sauce.
We got our FIRST TASTE on March 2, at a special media event held at Knott’s Berry Farm. And we were invited to try out the various foods coming this year. Check out all the amazing Boysenberry goodies coming to this year’s festival.
Entrees Photo Gallery
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Tasty dessert items can be found throughout the festival, perfect for those with a sweet tooth, including sweet corn nuggets with boysenberry honey, boysenberry bread pudding, and a boysenberry waffle topped with whipped cream and boysenberry maple syrup.
Sweets and Drinks Photo Gallery
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Merchandise
Merchandise Photo Gallery
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Guests can also purchase over 75 unique boysenberry-inspired creations with limited-edition merchandise found throughout the park. This year’s merchandise includes a grand selection of packaged food items perfect for take-home souvenirs. The Berry Market, located in the California Marketplace, also features signature boysenberry items like the refreshing boysenberry sarsaparilla and Knott’s classic jams and preserves. Unique boysenberry-inspired artisan products also will be available at the Boysenberry Festival Craft Fair, with over 30 local craft vendors.
Atmosphere and Art Photo Gallery
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In addition to the numerous food and drink offerings, the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival serves up a wide selection of local crafters, live music, pie-eating contests, museums, an animal farm, and musical performances including a brand-new musical stage show for guests of all ages to enjoy. Guests are invited to celebrate the heritage of California’s original theme park with the new show Knott’s Preserved. Through song, dance, and storytelling, Knott’s Berry Farm comes alive as the audience takes a musical journey from the little ghost town of Calico to the Seaside Boardwalk of the Roaring ’20s to commemorate the heritage of the park. Knott’s Boysenberry Festival offers endless entertainment.
The Boysenberry Festival is included with admission to Knott’s Berry Farm. Additional costs apply for food-tasting experiences within the event. Knott’s will have extended hours on select days between the course o the event between March 10 and April 16, allowing guests extra time to take advantage of the limited-time offerings.
Big Bear Lake is a magical place. This is especially true after a good winter storm hits Southern California, leaving the mountains covered with beautiful white powder. I recently visited Big Bear and discovered a cool hotel, a great sandwich shop, lots of fun snow sledding, and more.
Big Bear is a wonderland after winter snow
My getaway began when the family and I took the 210 Freeway from Pasadena to San Bernardino, where we transferred to Highway 330. This twisting and turning road led us about 30 miles up the Sierra Nevada Mountains, past incredible vistas overlooking expansive valleys below and bustling cities in the distance. After about 45 minutes we reached Big Bear Village. where we checked into a large, rustic suite at Fireside Lodge (www.firesidelodge.net).
Overlooking the lake and its snow-covered beach, the suite had everything we needed for a three-day, two-night stay. It boasted a full kitchen with stove, fridge, sink, microwave and coffee maker. The room also came with a large living room with fireplace, a separate bedroom, two TVs and two full bathrooms.
Fireside Lodge is a great place to stay in Big Bear
The suite’s best feature was the long balcony overlooking Big Bear Lake and the undeveloped mountain forest across the water. From here we watched birds and people walk along the edge of the partially frozen lake.
Besides cozy accommodations, the Fireside Lodge is also centrally located in town. It is only about a mile drive to the Snow Summit ski Resort, and a short walk from “The Village,” Big Bear’s charming downtown community of shops, restaurants, art galleries and pubs.
Rooms at Fireside Lodge offer lake views
After acquainting ourselves with the suite we put on snow gear and went looking for a place to go sledding. We didn’t have to go far because we found a snow-covered parking lot across the street from the lodge that was built on a hill and made a perfect sledding slope.
Sledding is an inexpensive and fun way to experience the snow
After an hour of slipping, sliding and sledding our hands and feet were freezing and our bellies were growling, so we warmed up at the Old German Deli (www.oldgermandeli.com), an authentic deli, serving authentic and traditional German meats, sandwiches and sides and more. Sandwich favorites include Schinkenwurst, Bavarian Loaf, Pepper Loaf, knockwurst, bratwurst, tongue and blood and much more. The deli also sells a host of side dishes, as well as food goods imported from Germany such as pickles, sauerkraut, crackers and more.
“People love coming to our deli because the food is fresh, authentic and delicious,” says Manager Victoria Mednia. “Many people who come here are also reminded of their travels abroad or their childhood in Germany.”
The Old German Deli serves memorable, authentic sandwiches and more
For lunch we enjoyed a delicious Schinkenwurst sandwich with a side of split pea soup, and a German Salami sandwich with potato salad. All sandwiches come with a choice of side, and a boiled egg and pickle. Schinkenwurst is a German luncheon cold cut, similar to bologna, that usually consists of pork, veal, and ham. The one I had was memorable and I would literally drive back to Big Bear just for another one.
After lunch we strolled through charming Big Bear Village, a hub for shopping, sightseeing, dining and nightlife. It’s also the site of annual city-wide holiday events like Halloween and Christmas in The Village. “A beautiful sight in any season, The Village features colorful blooms in the spring, bright green trees in the summer, vibrant crimson, orange, and yellow foliage in the fall, and glittering snow in winter that creates a wonderland with twinkling lights,” says the website Bigbear.com.
Big Bear Village is a fun and festive downtown area
During our walk, The Village was covered in snow and people were walking around and going in and out of shops and restaurants. There were snowmen standing, fire pits crackling, and music playing. It was a very festive atmosphere.
Our next stop was the lake, where we found a beautiful scene of snow-capped mountain peaks and tall pine trees reflecting off the semi-frozen water. We also found flocks of colorful ducks slipping and sliding across the surface.
Big Bear Lake sits at nearly 6,800 feet
Sitting at an elevation of nearly 6800 ft, Big Bear’s legendary lake gets all of its water from snow and rain. It is about 7 miles long going east to west and about a half-mile wide. The shoreline spans over 22 miles and the deepest point is roughly 72 feet. Types of fish normally found in the lake include several species of bass and trout, as well as crappie, bluegill, catfish, sunfish, and pumpkinseed.
From the lake we headed back to the hotel and cooked a steak dinner with potatoes and salad in our kitchen. We then threw some logs in the fireplace and baked chocolate cookies. While eating our dessert, we sat by the fire and watched the moonlight dance on the frozen lake. As the fire snapped and crackled, I thought about what a wonderful place Big Bear is.
Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, approximately 100 miles of LA, Big Bear’s altitude ranges from 6,750 to 9,000 feet. The city enjoy’s over 300 days of sunshine each year, with summer temps averaging 80 degrees during the day and 45 at night. Winter brings snowfall with temps in the low 40’s during the day and mid 20’s at night. Big Bear is home to bald eagles, bears, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, deer, and a large number of birds and trees, and rare plants. The town even boasts a solar observatory and an alpine zoo for injured wildlife.
Boulder Bay Park is one of Big Bear’s most majestic spots
The next morning we drove to Boulder Bay Park, one of Big Bear’s most beautiful parks. As the name implies, the park is highlighted by giant boulders stacked around a majestic bay. Here we did some more sledding and walked around in the thin, 40-degree air.
For more information on visiting Big Bear Lake, visit: www.bigbear.com or call 800 4 – BIG-BEAR. For more info on Fireside Lodge, go to: www.firesidelodge.net
