SeaWorld San Diego Hosts 2023 Mardi Gras Celebration

January 20, 2023

SeaWorld San Diego is bringing back New Orleans flare, food, and festivities with the return of Mardi Gras. The excitement of Mardi Gras comes to life with a party vibe full of ALL-NEW live music and performances including a New Orleans Jazz band, Mardi-Gras processional, Louisiana-inspired laser show, plus multiple performers, colorful costumes, and festive decor. Guests can indulge in new and returning authentic menu items including king cake, beignets, and gumbo. The event runs every weekend from January 21 to February 26, plus select dates. To get the most out of Mardi Gras and all SeaWorld has to offer, guests can enjoy unlimited visits throughout 2023* for the price of a single day ticket with a 2023 Fun Card.

“We’re excited to bring an even bigger and better Mardi Gras experience to SeaWorld San Diego this year,” said Tim Hamilton, Vice President of Entertainment at SeaWorld San Diego. “Guests are invited to join the soiree because we’re offering a true New Orleans-style party. Just like dancing in the streets, our guests will be dancing through the park and immersed by the sights, sounds, and tastes of a San Diego-style Mardi Gras. Laissez le bon temps rouler!”

Mardi Gras is included with park admission. Event times are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please see seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/theme-park-hours for the daily schedule.

ALL-NEW Bourbon Street-Style Entertainment

Guests are cordially invited to join the park’s colorful cast of performers to let the good times roll. SeaWorld will be jumping with upbeat, musical fun during Mardi Gras with the ALL-NEW Mardi Gras-inspired lively processional led by Mardi Gras Madame, Mama, and full of festive Mardi Gras performers, including stilt walkers, dancers, and jugglers. The processional will move around the park, encouraging park partygoers to join along the way and culminate at the Mardi Gras stage. The processional will end, yet the party continues as the crowd will be treated to a rousing song and dance number, “No Bad News.”

The Mardi Gras stage will also showcase performances by an ALL-NEW New Orleans Good Time Jazz Band, performers from the San Diego Circus Center, and a DJ for non-stop rockin’ fun every event day. During the evening hours, guests can walk through the SeaWorld Tunnel of Lights and enjoy an ALL-NEW special laser Louisiana-inspired light show, both filled with traditional Mardi Gras colors. The festival area will also include a face painting booth, ribbons, lights, masks, and more!

Tastes of New Orleans

Mardi Gras isn’t complete without delicious New Orleans-style food and drinks! Guests will be able to enjoy the tastes of the South with new and returning specialty menu items created for the event.

Guests can indulge in classic food dishes including a choice of Shrimp or Roast Beef Po’Boys, plus Muffulettas and Andouille Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya. Vegetarians can choose from ALL-NEW menu items including a plant-based Dirty Rice, Seafood Jambalaya, and Hush Puppies. A sweet side of Mardi Gras returns with Beignets or guests can opt for the NEW Pecan Praline King Cake, both pair perfectly with a tasty Chicory Coffee. Drink options will also be aplenty, with a beer trailer and mimosa bar serving Mint Juleps, Hurricanes, and Abita New Orleans Beer.

A Year of Fun at SeaWorld
Mardi Gras is just one part of an exciting 2023 event lineup at SeaWorld San Diego. Other upcoming events include:

• Seven Seas Food Festival: March 3-April 30 (Select Dates) SeaWorld is bringing back international flavors, amazing beverage tastings and live music performances with the return of Southern California’s fan favorite Seven Seas Food Festival. In addition to hundreds of tasty bites and delicious drinks, guests can enjoy live music and their favorite animal exhibits, including dolphins, sea lions, bat rays, flamingos, sea otters, and more.
• Viva La Música: May 5 – May 14 (Select Dates)

Experience this festive, family-friendly Latin celebration in a new way as you dance to the hottest music, sample fiery flavors, and much more.

• Arctic Rescue Coaster: Opening in Spring The newest addition to SeaWorld San Diego, Arctic Rescue will be the fastest and longest straddle coaster on the West Coast! This family-friendly multi-launch ride invites guests to hop on a snowmobile and launch at up to 40 mph on a chilly adventure as they race through the unpredictable arctic climate to help animals in danger.

Pay Less than a Day and Play All Year Long

The best way to play all year round is with a 2023 Fun Card! For the price of a single day ticket at $99.99, guests can enjoy unlimited visits* throughout 2023. With a Fun Card, guests can roam and explore the park as many times as they want to visit amazing animals, enjoy family and thrill rides including upcoming family-friendly coaster Arctic Rescue, the longest and fastest straddle coaster on the West Coast, opening in Spring 2023. Plus, guests can take advantage of events including Mardi Gras, Seven Seas Food Festival, and Spooktacular all year long – all included in park admission.

*Some restrictions and blockout dates apply. 2023 Fun Card valid through December 31, 2023.

For more information on events, park hours and to purchase tickets and/or Fun Cards, visit SeaWorldSanDiego.com.

Looney Tunes Celebrates Lunar New Year and Year Of The Rabbit

Robbie Bulus

January 18, 2023

The Lunar New Year on January 22, 2023 kicks off the Year of the Rabbit. Naturally, international superstar and cultural icon Bugs Bunny can hardly wait for, according to him, “the best year ever!” To help fans celebrate Lunar New Year and provide a fun twist on Year of the Rabbit, Warner Bros. Discovery has joined with top licensees, as well as created new content, starring Bugs and featuring his fellow Looney Tunes.

The unique, all-new Year of the Rabbit-themed merchandise, animated content, experiences and gaming from Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products and Themed Entertainment, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Cartoonito, Warner Bros. Animation, and Warner Bros. Games will engage fans around the world.

Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products and Kohl’s partnered to create a gender neutral Sonoma Community apparel collection for adults and kids featuring Bugs Bunny, available exclusively at Kohl’s and on Kohls.com in the U.S. Through this collaboration, WBDGCP and Kohl’s aim to celebrate Lunar New Year through a modern relevant lens. WB Shop also joins the celebration with an all-new Year of the Rabbit – Looney Tunes collection. Available now, this unique collection features the Looney Tunes wearing vibrant, Year of the Rabbit-themed costumes across accessories and apparel that make for great, distinctive gifts all year-long.

Available now online and at BOSS stores, the Looney Tunes x BOSS capsule collection of adult and kids’ apparel consists of laid-back jerseywear, knitwear and outerwear pieces embellished with flashes of festive red and gold, key Looney Tunes catchphrases, and bunny and carrot motifs for a fresh, fun aesthetic. Available now, Moschino is set to bring Bugs into the world of Italian luxury with a 23-item collection of women’s ready-to-wear and accessories, including a leather boxing-glove clutch, gold bijoux pieces, printed leather moto jackets and bunny-ear high heels.

In addition, Amsterdam-based brand Scotch & Soda will launch a bunny-themed capsule for adults and kids in spring 2023, with hero pieces including a varsity jacket showcasing Bugs Bunny on the front and the back, finished with the letter S (for Scotch & Soda). That’s not all folks as Spanish fashion retailer Desigual is also set to launch a women’s and kid’s collection with key lines including sweatshirts inspired by vintage Bugs Bunny movies, trucker jackets with college style lettering and distressed-effect t-shirts.

In Australia, Cotton On celebrates the Year of the Rabbit and all things Lunar New Year with a very lucky Looney Tunes capsule collection. Offering customers a joyful twist to Lunar New Year dressing and a modern take on tradition, Cotton On’s Looney Tunes collection includes over 50 styles across Womenswear, Menswear and Rubi accessories. From traditional button-ups to print party shirts and pop-color graphic tees, with trend-lead accessories and preppy rugby polos.The new collection is available online at cottonon.com and in all Cotton On and Rubi stores across Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong & Thailand. Target Australia is also supporting with a gorgeous range of Bugs Bunny family sleepwear, including a pet option, launching at the end of January 2023.

Fashion retailer GAP launched a Bugs Bunny apparel collection in mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, available now. Select styles from the GAP collection will also be available in North America. Retailer GU also launched a new Bugs Bunny apparel collection, available now in Japan, Taiwan, mainland China and Hong Kong. Also in China, a Looney Tunes-themed mall exhibition is located at the Beijing Hopson Mall through February 5.

Across Southeast Asia and Taiwan, WBDGCP has partnerships in place with many retailers and licensees across apparel, accessories and food categories. Two key regional agreements include a new cap and apparel range with New Era and a line of trainers and apparel by FILA.

In Thailand, CPS Chaps has released a Bugs range of streetwear. Giordano and Matahari Department Store in Indonesia and Padini in Malaysia also have impressive looking apparel ranges. Rabbit fans will love premium fashion items in the region including jewelry from Lotus Archi and a “prosperity” Happy Rabbit Year 0.5g gold bar by Aurora Italia. Keep an eye out for a Bugs Bunny bag and wallet collection from Carlo Rino in Malaysia during January and February. In Singapore and Malaysia, Baskin Robbins has unveiled its range of ice cream inspired by Bugs Bunny, including a Carrot Farm selection and a Looney Tunes pack.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi also joins the celebration with the Year of the Rabbit experience running January 20 through January 22nd. Fans can celebrate with Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Sylvester, Tweety, and Tom & Jerry as they appear on the seasonally themed Plaza Stage wearing their Lunar New Year outfits.

Cartoonito’s preschool series, “Bugs Bunny Builders” released a new, two-minute short (check it out below) celebrating Lunar New Year. Airing in the US and APAC market, the bite-sized episode features Bugs and Lola Bunny teaching the Looney Builders about the annual celebration and perform their own Looney lion dance to help bring good luck and fortune to the new year. Families can expect new, full-length episodes of the acclaimed series on Cartoonito on Cartoon Network and HBO Max.

2023 will also see Bugs starring in new episodes of “Looney Tunes Cartoons” on HBO Max, plus appearing alongside two other beloved Looney rabbits, Babs and Buster, in Cartoon Network and HBO Max’s highly anticipated new series, “Tiny Toons Looniversity.” “Bugs Bunny Builders” and “Looney Tunes Cartoons” are produced by Warner Bros. Animation. “Tiny Toons Looniversity” is produced by Amblin Television in association with Warner Bros. Animation.

“MultiVersus,” the free-to-play platform fighter videogame from Warner Bros. Games featuring Bugs Bunny and more Looney Tunes characters alongside more heroes and personalities, will celebrate the Lunar New Year with themed in-game items, including a Red Guardian Reindog character variant, Ringout, Banner and Profile Icons, all commemorating the Year of the Rabbit. Content will be available for purchase from Jan. 17 (10 a.m. PST) through Jan. 31 (10 a.m. PST).

From Scopely, “Looney Tunes: World of Mayhem” will celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with a month-long limited time event. Players can unlock two brand new Epic Rabbit characters, Lunar Bugs and Lunar Lola, through the following methods:

Battle Pass: Players who engage in daily activities and Lunar New Year events for 28 days and earn 70 Milestones worth of rewards and unlock Lunar Lola.
Event: On January 20, players can enjoy a 7-day event with Campaigns, Quests, and Leaderboards to immerse themselves in the Year of the Rabbit and have a chance to unlock Lunar Bugs!

Foodie Guide to Disney100 Celebration at Disneyland Resort

Socalthrills Staff

January 17, 2023

This year marks 100 years of The Walt Disney Company – yes, that’s right – 100 years! To celebrate this momentous occasion, Disneyland Resort is serving up delicious dishes, sips, and novelties for everyone to bask in the fun!

All across Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park guests can take part in the historic milestone by eating their way through some tasty treats, like the beautifully delicious Platinum Trifle and the can’t-miss Old-Fashioned Cream Soda. And the delights don’t stop there – both Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are joining in on the festivities!

We now present the Foodie Guide 100 years in the making. Enjoy!

Disneyland Park

Alien Pizza Planet

Lemon Tea Cake: Lemon curd, lemon zest glaze, and a fresh slice of lemon (New)

Blue Bayou Restaurant

Celebration Cake: Pecan brownie, chocolate truffle mousse, red berries, and milk chocolate mousse glazed with chocolate ganache and topped with a star (New) (Available beginning Jan. 27)
Disney100 Blue Bayou Champagne Glass: Available per glass or in a set (Limit two per person, per transaction) (New) (Coming soon)

Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen and Pooh Corner (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Minnie Apple (New)
Minnie Cake Pop (New)

Galactic Grill (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Platinum Trifle: Layers of chocolate cookie crumbles, cheesecake, cherry compote, chocolate cookie mousse, and crème fraîche chantilly with crunch pearls and a chocolate piece (New)
Old-Fashioned Cream Soda: Sprite, cherry, and blue cotton candy gourmet syrup served frozen and topped with whipped cream and purple pixie dust (Glow cube available) (New)

Hungry Bear Restaurant

Potato & Cheddar Cheeseburger: 1/3 lb Angus chuck patty, green chile, and bacon cheddar sauce with spicy crispy potato planks on a brioche bun (New) (Available beginning Jan. 27)
Lemon Chiffon Pie: Classic lemon chiffon pie with graham cracker crust topped with vanilla chantilly cream (New)

Jolly Holiday Bakery Café

Lemon Tea Cake: Lemon curd, lemon zest glaze, and a fresh slice of lemon (New)
Platinum Trifle: Layers of chocolate cookie crumbles, cheesecake, cherry compote, chocolate cookie mousse, and crème fraîche chantilly with crunch pearls and a chocolate piece (New) (Available beginning Jan. 27)
Banks Shortbread Tart: Caramel and chocolate ganache in a shortbread tart, purple-colored white chocolate mousse, sea salt, edible silver stars, and silver crunch pearls (New) (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Refreshment Corner (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Violet Pretzel: Cream cheese-filled pretzel drizzled with salted vanilla cream and lavender sugar (New)
Sparkling Grape: Sprite with grape syrup topped with a candy strip (New)

Town Square Churro and Tomorrowland Churro (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Disney100 Churro rolled in cherry sugar drizzled with white icing and topped with purple and silver pearls (New)

Available at Various Locations Throughout Disneyland Park

Disney100 Thermo Tumbler (New) Available at the following:
- Bengal Barbecue
- Edelweiss Snacks
- French Market Restaurant
- Galactic Grill
- Harbour Galley
- Hungry Bear Restaurant
- “it’s a small world” Lemonade Cart
- Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe
- Plaza Inn
- Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
- Red Rose Taverne
- Refreshment Corner
- Stage Door Café
- The Golden Horseshoe

Disney100 Travel Tumbler with Lanyard (New) Available at the following:
- Bengal Barbecue
- French Market Restaurant
- Fruit Cart in Fantasyland
- Galactic Grill
- Harbour Galley
- Hungry Bear Restaurant
- “it’s a small world” and Tomorrowland Lemonade Carts
- Jolly Holiday Bakery Café
- Mint Julep Bar
- Outdoor Food Carts
- Plaza Inn
- Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
- Red Rose Taverne
- Refreshment Corner
- Royal Street Veranda
- Ship to Shore
- Stage Door Café
- The Golden Horseshoe
- Troubadour Tavern

Disney100 Mickey Mouse Sipper (New) Available at the following beginning Jan. 27:
- Bengal Barbecue
- French Market Restaurant
- Galactic Grill
- Harbour Galley
- Hungry Bear Restaurant
- Jolly Holiday Bakery Café
- Plaza Inn
- Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
- Red Rose Taverne
- Refreshment Corner
- Stage Door Café
- The Golden Horseshoe

Disney100 Poison Apple Mug (New) Available at the following beginning Jan. 27:
- Casey Jr. Churro Cart

Disney100 Magic Key Refillable Popcorn Bucket (New) Available at the following:
- Popcorn Carts near Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world,” Fantasyland, Frontierland, New Orleans Square, Tomorrowland, and Town Square

Disney100 Star Glow Cube (New) (Coming Soon) Available at the following:
- Bengal Barbecue
- Harbour Galley
- Hungry Bear Restaurant
- Galactic Grill
- Mint Julep Bar
- Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
- Red Rose Taverne
- Refreshment Corner

Disney100 Mickey Mouse Straw Clip (New) (Coming Soon) Available at the following:
- Bengal Barbecue
- Harbour Galley
- Hungry Bear Restaurant
- “it’s a small world” Pretzel Cart
- Galactic Grill
- Mint Julep Bar
- Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
- Red Rose Taverne
- Refreshment Corner

Disney100 Cinderella Premium Bucket (New) (Coming Soon) Available at the following:
- Fantasyland Theater
- Popcorn Carts near Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world,” and Town Square

Disney California Adventure Park

Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta

Lemon Chiffon Pie: Classic lemon chiffon pie with graham cracker crust topped with vanilla chantilly cream (New)
French Onion Dip Pizza: Mozzarella, Gruyère, caramelized onion, and sliced roast beef served with a side of beef au jus (New) (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff and Trolley Treats (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Minnie Apple (New)
Minnie Cake Pop (New)

Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream (Available beginning Jan. 27)

SNICKERS Sundae: Butter-pecan ice cream topped with chocolate shell, caramel sauce, whipped cream, chopped peanuts, and SNICKERS bar pieces served in a waffle cup (New)

Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Platinum Trifle: Layers of chocolate cookie crumbles, cheesecake, cherry compote, chocolate cookie mousse, and crème fraîche chantilly with crunch pearls and a chocolate piece (New)

Flo’s V-8 Cafe

Lemon Chiffon Pie: Classic lemon chiffon pie with graham cracker crust topped with vanilla chantilly cream (New)

Hollywood Lounge

Platinum Blue: Rum, blue curaçao, DOLE pineapple and sour mix (New) (Available beginning Jan. 27)
Old-Fashioned Cream Soda: Sprite, cherry, and blue cotton candy gourmet syrup served frozen and topped with whipped cream and purple pixie dust (Glow cube available) (New)

Lamplight Lounge – Boardwalk Dining and Lamplight Lounge (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Celebration Cocktail: Empress Gin, pea flower, honey, lavender, and lemon juice garnished with an edible flower (New)

Magic Key Terrace (Available beginning Jan. 27 for Magic Key holders only)

Celebration Cake: Pecan brownie, chocolate truffle mousse, red berries, and milk chocolate mousse glazed with chocolate ganache and topped with a star (New)

Pacific Wharf Cappuccino Cart

Lemon Tea Cake: Lemon curd, lemon zest glaze, and a fresh slice of lemon (New)

Pacific Wharf Café (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Platinum Trifle: Layers of chocolate cookie crumbles, cheesecake, cherry compote, chocolate cookie mousse, and crème fraîche chantilly with crunch pearls and a chocolate piece (New)

Schmoozies (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Steamboat Willie Shake: Cookies & cream shake with whipped topping and chocolate creme-filled cookie ears (New)

Sonoma Terrace (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Prickly Paloma: Tequila, prickly pear and grapefruit ginger beer (New)

Studio Catering Co.

Old-Fashioned Cream Soda: Sprite, cherry, and blue cotton candy gourmet syrup served frozen and topped with whipped cream and purple pixie dust (Glow cube available) (New)

Grizzly Peak Churro, Hollywood Churro, and Goofy’s Churro (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Disney100 Churro rolled in cherry sugar drizzled with white icing and topped with purple and silver pearls (New)

Available at Various Locations Throughout Disney California Adventure Park

Disney100 Thermo Tumbler (New) Available at the following:
- Corn Dog Castle
- Pacific Wharf Cappuccino Cart
- Paradise Garden Grill
- Pixar Pier Chiller Cart
- Studio Catering Co.

Disney100 Travel Tumbler with Lanyard (New) Available at the following:
- Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park
- Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill
- Lucky Fortune Cookery
- Outdoor Food Carts
- Pacific Wharf Café
- Pacific Wharf Cappuccino Cart
- Paradise Garden Grill
- Pixar Pier Lemonade Cart
- Schmoozies
- Smokejumpers Grill

Disney100 Mickey Mouse Sipper (New) Available at the following:
- Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
- Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park
- Corn Dog Castle
- Fairfax Market
- Outdoor Food Carts
- Pacific Wharf Café
- Paradise Garden Grill
- Smokejumpers Grill

Disney100 Platinum Mickey Mouse Balloon Bucket (New) Available at the following:
- Popcorn Carts in Buena Vista Street, Grizzle Peak, and Pixar Pier

Disney100 Poison Apple Mug (New) Available at the following:
- Mortimer’s Market

Disney100 Magic Key Refillable Popcorn Bucket (New) Available at the following:
- Popcorn Carts on Buena Vista Street, Grizzly Peak, and Pixar Pier

Disney100 Star Glow Cube (New) (Coming Soon) Available at the following:
- Award Wieners
- Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
- Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill
- Corn Dog Castle
- Hollywood Lounge
- Pacific Wharf Café
- Smokejumpers Grill
- Sonoma Terrace

Disney100 Mickey Mouse Straw Clip (New) (Coming Soon) Available at the following:
- Award Wieners
- Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
- Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park
- Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill
- Corn Dog Castle
- Paradise Garden Grill
- Hollywood Churro Cart
- Smokejumpers Grill

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

GCH Craftsman Grill

Walt’s Chili Bread Bowl

GCH Holiday Cart

Disney100 Rice Krispie Treat (New)

Disneyland Hotel

Coffee House

Disney100 Mickey Mouse Sipper (New)

Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar (Coming Soon)

Trader Sam’s Disney100 Swizzle Stick (New) (Limit 10 per person, per transaction)

Available at Various Disneyland Resort Hotels

Disney100 Travel Tumbler with Lanyard (New) Available at the following:
- Coffee House at Disneyland Hotel
- GCH Craftsman Grill at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

Downtown Disney District

Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar & Cafe (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Lavender Honor: Gin, plum liqueur, yuzu, and cava (New)

Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Enchanted Centuria Martini: Blanco tequila, chilled espresso, Irish cream, and vanilla syrup topped with an edible flower (New)

Marceline’s Confectionary (Available beginning Jan. 27)

Minnie Apple (New)
Minnie Cake Pop (New)

Tortilla Jo’s (Available beginning Jan. 27)

3 Leches Cake: Fresh berries, tres leches sauce, and snow-white chocolate confetti (New)
Burgundy Celebration: Tequila blanco, organic margarita mix, and cabernet wine (New)
The Last Pedal: Tequila blanco, rose syrup, fresh lime, sparkling water, smoke top, and garnished with an edible flower (New)

Happy Disney100 Celebration! Here’s to 100 more years of magic (and food).

(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)

Star Wars: The Mandalorian S3 Trailer Debuts

Robbie Bulus

January 16, 2023

Disney+ debuted the thrilling new trailer for the upcoming Season 3 of “Star Wars: The Mandalorian” during halftime of the NFL Super Wild Card matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, simulcast on ABC, ESPN and ESPN+.

The journeys of the Mandalorian through the Star Wars galaxy continue. Once a lone bounty hunter, Din Djarin has reunited with Grogu. Meanwhile, the New Republic struggles to lead the galaxy away from its dark history. The Mandalorian will cross paths with old allies and make new enemies as he and Grogu continue their journey together.

The series stars Pedro Pascal, Katee Sackhoff, Carl Weathers, Amy Sedaris, Emily Swallow and Giancarlo Esposito.

The directors of the eight-episode Season 3 include Rick Famuyiwa, Rachel Morrison, Lee Isaac Chung, Carl Weathers, Peter Ramsey and Bryce Dallas Howard.

Jon Favreau is the showrunner/head writer and serves as an executive producer along with Dave Filoni, Rick Famuyiwa, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson. Karen Gilchrist and Carrie Beck are co-executive producers.

Disney Megahit Phineas and Ferb Returns!

Maverick Bohn

January 13, 2023

Disney knows what it’s going to do today with the reveal of some of the biggest news this side of the tristate area with the reveal that creator, Dan Povenmire, will be bringing back the smash success, Phineas and Ferb. It was also revealed that Povenmire has been given the greenlight for a second season of the new hit series, Hamster and Gretel.

Phineas and Ferb, which first debuted in 2007, dominated the airwaves for over 8 years, quickly receiving rave reviews and becoming a staple of the classic Disney XD lineup with its unique stylistic humor, quick witted plotlines that trapped us in societal convention, teased Neolithic song lyrics, and special guest appearances that included the likes of pop supstar Kelly Clarkson, swing legends Big Bad Vodoo Daddy, and comedic icons Ben Stiller and Tina Fey. Povenmire really should have charged more when making the deal to drop the pilot episode. If you know, you know.

The series also lead to many other successful projects, which include spinoff series, Milo Murphy’s Law, Hamster and Gretel, and a Disney+ exclusive, Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe, which premiered exclusively at the 2019 D23 Expo for select D23 Gold Members. We can’t help but be surprised it took this long for Disney to bring Povenmire and his creative team back to revisit our favorite inventive band of misfits from Danville.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dan Povenmire (@dan.povenmire)

The new deal will consist of two brand new seasons of the hit series, bringing 40 new episodes exclusively to Disney+. It has also been revealed that Povenmire will begin development on new live action projects for Disney, which details have yet to be unveiled.

“Dan is renowned for his ability to create universally beloved stories and characters with both heart and humor,” Disney Branded Television President, Ayo Davis shared. We couldn’t agree more, and with the announcement of this new deal, we can’t help but wonder what’s next for Phineas, Ferb, Agent P, as well as Love Handle, Dr. Heinz Doofenshmirtz, and so many of our favorite characters.

Povenmire added that he can’t wait to embark into this new adventure, thankful for all the love and support his series have garnered over the years. “It has been the greatest pleasure of my career to see how an entire generation of kids and parents have embraced the characters and the humor of Phineas and Ferb. I’m eagerly looking forward to diving back into the show for them and for a whole new generation”

Will we get to see a return of Football X7? A new coaster design and callback to the pilot episode? What ‘Inator’ will we see next? There are so many unanswered questions that we will soon find the answers to very soon.

Most importantly, we beg to ask the question, will Phineas and Ferb return to Disney Parks, and will Disneyland Resort guests get a chance to dance and sing at Phineas and Ferb’s Rockin’ Rollin’ Dance Party once more?

We can’t wait to find out! Stay tuned!

Disney Takes the Stage at Winter 2023 TCA Tour

Robbie Bulus

January 13, 2023

Disney+, Disney Channel and National Geographic Content marked the Winter 2023 TCA Press Tour with a robust slate of premiere dates and first looks across linear and streaming. Panels showcased throughout the day included “American Born Chinese,” “Star Wars: The Bad Batch,” “Prom Pact,” “The Crossover,” “A Small Light,” “Explore the World with the Next Gen of Nat Geo Storytellers,” “Nat Geo Documentary Films Directors” and “Secrets of the Elephants.”

Premiere dates are below (in order of premiere date):

“Star Wars: The Bad Batch”

• Season Two Now Streaming With New Episodes on Wednesdays

Nat Geo Doc Films’ “Fire of Love,” “Retrograde,” “The Territory” and “The Flagmakers”

• Now Streaming on Disney+

“Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller”

• Season Two Premieres Jan. 18 at 9/8c on National Geographic, Next Day on Hulu

“The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder”

• Season Two Premieres With All Episodes Streaming on Feb. 1 on Disney+ (U.S. only, international to follow)

• “Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur”

• Premieres Friday, Feb. 10, on Disney Channel, With the First Six Episodes Streaming Wednesday, Feb. 15, on Disney+ (U.S. Only, International to Follow)

“A Small Light”

“A Small Light,” a powerful, eight episode limited series, tells the remarkable true story of 20 something secretary Miep Gies (Bel Powley), who didn’t hesitate when her boss Otto Frank (Liev Schreiber) asked her to hide him and his family from the Nazis during World War II. For the next two years, Miep, her husband Jan (Joe Cole) and several other everyday heroes watched over the eight souls hiding in the secret annex. It was Miep who found Anne Frank’s diary and preserved it so that she and Otto could later share it with the world. The series title comes from something Gies said late in her life: “I don’t like being called a hero because no one should ever think you have to be special to help others. Even an ordinary secretary or a housewife or a teenager can turn on a small light in a dark room.”

• Premieres Spring 2023 on National Geographic and Disney+

“American Born Chinese”

• Premieres Spring 2023 on Disney+

“Restaurants at the End of the World”

Adventurous chef, entrepreneur and global trailblazer Kristen Kish travels the world in search of the people, places, culture and traditions behind the world’s most remote restaurants. From local purveyors, farmers and herders to kitchen crew, managers and chefs, Kristen is going behind the scenes to meet the people, hear the stories and see the day-to-day balancing act required to keep food on the table in the most remote outposts on earth.

• Premieres Tuesday, March 21, on National Geographic; All Episodes Begin Streaming Spring 2023 on Disney+

“Prom Pact”

• Premieres Thursday, March 30, at 8:00 p.m. EST/PST on Disney Channel; Next Day on Disney+ (U.S. only, international to follow)

“The Crossover”

• Premieres Tuesday, April 4, on Disney Channel and Wednesday, April 5, on Disney+ (U.S. only, international to follow)

“Secrets of the Elephants”

Elephants are powerful, loving and wise, but we are only starting to unlock their deepest secrets. The ground-breaking, award-winning natural history franchise “Secrets of” returns with its next installment, “Secrets of the Elephants.” From Academy Award®-winning filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer-at-Large James Cameron, the series travels the world — from the Savannahs of Africa to the urban landscapes of Asia — to discover the strategic thinking, complex emotions and sophisticated language of elephants, shaping a unique and dynamic culture. Narrated by Academy Award-winning actress Natalie Portman and featuring renowned National Geographic Explorer and elephant expert Dr. Paula Kahumbu, the four-part series not only reveals the extraordinary lives of different families of elephants but also highlights how similar they are to us. “Secrets of the Elephants” will change everything you thought you knew about elephants forever.

• Premieres Friday, April 21, on National Geographic, Next Day on Disney+ (U.S. only, international to follow)

“Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper”

Life-long birder Christian Cooper takes us into the wild, wonderful and unpredictable world of birds. Whether navigating rocky lava terrain in Hawaii for elusive honeycreepers, trekking into rainforests in Puerto Rico for parrots, or scaling a bridge in Manhattan for a peregrine falcon, he does whatever it takes Puerto learn about these extraordinary, feathered creatures and show us the remarkable world in the sky above.

• Premieres Saturday, June 17, on Nat Geo Wild, Summer 2023 on Disney+

“Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins”

Travel journalist Jeff Jenkins didn’t step foot on a plane until he was 20 years old, but once he did, he started living by his mantra “life begins where your comfort zone ends.” His mission is to inspire those who look like him to travel without fear and push past their perceived limitations to experience everything the world has to offer. Never Say Never follows Jeff as he travels the world testing the limits of his physical abilities — from attempting to climb 70-foot mountain faces, to rafting class 5 rapids culminating in 20-foot drops, to sailing in a windstorm at the end of the world. Throughout his global odyssey Jeff makes deep connections with locals and learns not just about the world, but also about himself.

• Premieres Sunday, July 9, on National Geographic, Summer 2023 on Disney+

James Cameron and Jon Landau were honored at Chinese Theatre

Robbie Bulus

January 12, 2023

“Avatar: The Way of Water” filmmakers James Cameron and Jon Landau were honored with a Handprints and Footprints Ceremony at the TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX® in Hollywood. Among the attendees at the ceremony, in which Cameron and Landau put their handprints and footprints in cement in the legendary movie palace’s forecourt were ”Avatar: The Way of Water” cast members Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang.

This honor comes on the heels of their nomination today by the Producers Guild of America (PGA) for producing “Avatar: The Way of Water,” the most successful worldwide release of 2022 and the seventh highest grossing film of all time worldwide.

In addition, the film has been nominated for six Critics Choice awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and two Golden Globe® awards, for Best Picture and Best Director, and has been selected as one of the year’s top films by the AFI and National Board of Review.

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, “Avatar: The Way of Water” begins to tell 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.

Directed by James Cameron and produced by Cameron and Jon Landau, the Lightstorm Entertainment Production stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang and Kate Winslet. Screenplay by James Cameron & Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver. Story by James Cameron & Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver & Josh Friedman & Shane Salerno. David Valdes and Richard Baneham serve as the film’s executive producers.

“Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” Celebrates its 30th Anniversary

Robbie Bulus

January 12, 2023

Tickets are on sale now to see El Capitan Theatre’s 30^th anniversary screening of Disney’s “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” January 28 at 7pm with a live panel before the film.

Director of the movie Duwayne Dunham and cast members Robert Hays, Benj Thall and Veronica Lauren Sawyer will join the live panel.

The event starts at 7:00pm and tickets are on sale now at www.elcapitantickets.com andhttps://www.fandango.com/el-capitan-theatre-aacon/theater-page. Tickets are $15 for all ages and seats are reserved.

The El Capitan Theatre has taken enhanced health and safety measures for its guests and cast members. All guests must follow posted instructions while visiting. For health and safety information including theatre policies and procedures visit https://elcapitantheatre.com/safetyinformation/

Universal Parks & Resorts to Bring Horror Experience to Las Vegas

Socalthrills Staff

January 12, 2023

Straight from Universal Parks & Resorts, the creators of Halloween Horror Nights – the world’s most popular global Halloween event – comes a brand-new permanent entertainment experience in Las Vegas. This original concept will bring to life Universal’s vast library of classic horror films and today’s most terrifying tales.

With a variety of unique, immersive, fantastic horror-centric experiences that surround high energy food and beverage spaces by day turned haunting bars and eateries by night, the new concept marks the first time Universal has created a permanent horror experience beyond its theme parks. It will deliver on the thrills and frights its horror fans have come to love and excite anyone looking for a new level of experiential entertainment. The space will also feature a continuously updated experience, must see seasonal events, and one-of-a-kind merchandise.

Universal has long defined the horror genre with its classic films featuring iconic characters such as Frankenstein, Dracula, The Mummy and the Wolf Man – and redefined modern horror and suspense stories through collaborations with such high-profile filmmakers as Jason Blum, James Wan and Jordan Peele. Only Universal could ignite the thrill of and excitement of this genre in full scale and three dimensions.

“Universal is known for our ability to deliver original, highly-themed and terrifying horror entertainment experiences for millions of fans every year,” said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Parks & Resorts. “We are excited to give our global fan base yet another way to get scared and have fun with fear in the heart of Las Vegas, the perfect place for this type of unique concept.”

Universal’s new horror experience will be the anchor tenant in a new 20-acre expansion of Las Vegas’ immersive AREA15 entertainment district that initially opened to the public in September 2020 and has attracted more than four million visitors since that time. Occupying a 110,000 square-foot space, the new Universal experience is an innovative, creative complement to AREA15’s roots in experiential art and entertainment.

Adding to the excitement of this new experience is the reaction from the Las Vegas community:

“AREA15 curates a constellation of best-in-class experiences. Universal’s never-been-done-before concept will be a perfect fit because our guests know they can expect fresh, exciting entertainment at AREA15,” said Winston Fisher, Chief Executive Officer, AREA15. “We are enormously gratified to have an extraordinary company like Universal as our partner as we embark on the next phase of growth for AREA15.”

“Las Vegas is an entertainment destination unlike any other – and we are thrilled to welcome Universal to our city,” said City of Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman. “The Universal experience will bring exactly the kind of high-quality, exciting entertainment our city, our visitors and our residents want.”

“Las Vegas is a vibrant community and increasingly known internationally for the creative arts experiences that we offer,” said City of Las Vegas Councilwoman Olivia Diaz. “Universal’s decision to anchor their next innovative creation in the city is exciting news for my residents and visitors alike. The job opportunities will be invaluable for our community, especially for those interested in the entertainment industry.”

Adventures by Disney Announces 2024 River Cruise Itineraries

Robbie Bulus

January 12, 2023

Adventures by Disney is pleased to announce its return to three of Europe’s most iconic rivers for the 2024 travel season. With 22 river cruise departures planned, Adventures by Disney guests will once again experience the unparalleled beauty of European landscapes and vibrant culture with sailings on the Rhine River, the Danube River and the Seine River. Each itinerary will offer Disney’s signature storytelling with the convenience of hassle-free travel and attention to detail provided by a team of Disney-trained Adventure Guides.

Headlining the 2024 lineup is the new “Danube River Cruise: Magical Holidays,” departure which marks the first time the guided group travel company will offer a themed river cruise voyage during the New Year’s holiday. Guests will sail on the Danube River in a beautifully designed river cruise ship, ring in the new year with a celebration and champagne toast and explore famous and picturesque sites and landmarks across Germany, Austria and Hungary.

Bookings for 2024 River Cruises open to the public on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023, with early booking available for the following travelers:

Jan. 17, 2023 – Adventure Insiders with 3+ previous Adventures
Jan. 18, 2023 – All Adventure Insiders
Jan. 19, 2023 – Disney Vacation Club Members, Disney Cruise Line Gold & Platinum Castaway Members, Golden Oak Residents
Jan. 20, 2023 – Bookings open for general public

Travelers interested in booking a 2024 River Cruise can take advantage of Adventure by Disney’s early booking offer when they book before April 18, 2023, with savings up to $750 per person on select departures. More info here.

Additionally, travelers on all 2024 River Cruise departures can also save 50% per person on the nonrefundable deposit required at booking when they book before April 18, 2023.

New in 2024: New Magical Holidays-Themed Departure, Plus Favorite Seasonal Sailings Return

In late December 2024, Adventures by Disney will invite guests to ring in the new year with an adventure like none other as they set sail on the “Danube River Cruise: Magical Holidays” departure. Guests will board the ship in Munich and be greeted with an authentic German welcome, including oompah music. The ship will transport guests to Austria where they will enjoy privately guided tours in Mondsee with views of the Austrian Alps, a visit to the Benedictine Abbey in Melk, and more.

Following the Christmas holiday, the city of Schonbrunn will transform its traditional Christmas market into a special New Year’s market where guests will experience the beauty and splendor of a European winter. The voyage continues with onboard and in-town activities, plus ice skating in Vienna before sailing to Hungary for enriching tours, carriage rides and making and eating goulash. Throughout the trip, special Disney magical moments are enjoyed along the way.

Returning favorites join the 2024 lineup, including the seasonal Oktoberfest and Christmas Markets river cruises — and the popular Food and Wine sailings feature delectable meals, desserts and beverages local to the region.

River Cruising with Disney: Sight-Seeing from the River and Up-Close on Land

Guests become part of the story on an Adventures by Disney river cruise, and itineraries are designed for everyone in the family. The masterful narratives, knowledge of the places visited and the culture and history are brought to life by the Adventure Guides. Through these experiences, families discover real world magic in a way only Disney can do. They include:

Dashing through the Black Forest on an Alpine toboggan ride (Rhine River Cruise).

Admiring the Notre-Dame Cathedral and imagining life nearly 900 years ago when its construction first began (Seine River Cruise).
Exploring the historic Schonbrunn Palace and its immaculate terrace garden named The Orangery (Danube River Cruise).
Dreaming of ballrooms and glass slippers while marveling at picturesque castles along the Rhine Gorge (Rhine River Cruise).
Gazing at the nighttime skyline view of the Eiffel Tower in the City of Light (Seine River Cruise).
Twirling on a hilltop and visiting the beautiful Mirabell Gardens (Danube River Cruise).
Honoring history by visiting the Normandy beaches, including Omaha Beach, the American cemetery and Les Braves Memorial (Seine River Cruise).

Not only will the sights from aboard the ship or walks through towns and villages take center stage, scenery is also explored up-close through optional bicycle excursions. Pedaling through the provincial towns in France, touring the quaint town of Rudesheim, Germany and surrounding wine country, or biking to the Klosterneuburg Abbey or along the Danube River in Vienna further enhances the travel experience.

River Cruising with Disney: A Taste of the Destination

On every adventure, guests are invited to tap into all the senses, including taking part in hands-on culinary activities for a true flavor of the destination. In Vienna, Austria, a traditional apple strudel tasting transforms into a cooking demonstration and baking lesson. At the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany, chocolate sampling becomes a create-your-own chocolate bar activity. In Strasbourg, France, macaron cookie ingredients magically transform into fine delicacies as guests become baking experts.

River Cruising with Disney: Unpack Once and Explore Europe in Style

With Adventures by Disney, guests sail on elegant ships offering stunning views and world-class service, all in collaboration with AmaWaterways. With the added convenience of knowing their “hotel” travels with them, guests unpack only once. Staterooms are artfully designed with luxury and comfort in mind, the expansive windows provide optimal viewing and internet access and in-room entertainment are available for families to enjoy.

Most meals are provided, as locally sourced cuisine and wine are served onboard. Itineraries are planned to balance adventures and excursions with wellness activities and relaxation, and special activities are planned just for kids, aka “Junior Adventurers.”

To learn more about Adventures by Disney or to book a vacation, click here for A FREE QUOTE!

New Orleans Top Things to See Before or After Your Next Disney Cruise

Robbie Bulus

January 12, 2023

New Orleans is not only home to jazz music, delicious food and a unique culture of its own, but in February and March 2023, it will also be home to the Disney Magic for the very first time! If families are looking to combine all the entertainment and fun of a Disney cruise with a pre- or post-sailing vacation in an iconic city, the Big Easy just might be the place to go!

Here are some ideas for how guests can eat, learn, smile and savor some sunshine before, after and during these four-, five- and six-night sailings to tropical locales in the Western Caribbean.

Sip and Savor: Calling all culinary connoisseurs! From beignets to gumbo to po’boys … it’s hard to decide what to try first in New Orleans. One thing is for sure – there’s no shortage of delicious food in the heart of New Orleans, and that doesn’t change when Guests board the ship. Once on the Disney Magic, families will be able to experience three family dining venues with appetizing menus, including Rapunzel’s Royal Table, an idyllic and enchanting restaurant exclusive to the Disney Magic that transports guests to the kingdom of Corona for an evening of music and interactive fun.
Look and Learn: New Orleans is a city rich with history, and there are many ways families can learn all about it. The Louisiana State Museum and the Backstreet Cultural Museum provide a glimpse into the city’s past, while the Louisiana Children’s Museum is a great place for little ones to play and learn. On board the Disney Magic, kids can continue to expand their horizons as they participate in engaging youth activities in spaces designed just for them like Andy’s Room or Marvel Super Hero Academy.

Sing and Smile: If guests spend a day in New Orleans, they can’t leave without hearing some jazz music! Whether you pay a visit to the New Orleans Jazz Historical Park or wander around the festive streets of the French Quarter, keep your ear out for those signature tunes. The musical magic doesn’t stop once you’re on the Disney Magic as well, with three Broadway-style shows (including “Tangled: The Musical,” performed exclusively aboard this ship), a Pirates IN the Caribbean deck party and live music daily during your voyage.
Soak and Splash: Although people may not associate New Orleans with water, a Mississippi River boat tour is a great way to see the city. And once guests are on board the Disney Magic, fun in the sun is taken to a whole new level! They can soak and splash in the numerous pools and hot tubs, or climb their way to the ship’s highest point for a three-story plunge on the AquaDunk, a can’t-miss body slide! And of course, there will be plenty of beaches and water activities during Caribbean cruises from New Orleans, with stops in the picturesque ports of call like Grand Cayman and Cozumel, Mexico.