Celebrate the new year and ring in 2022 at Universal Studios Hollywood’s festive EVE event, the biggest party in Hollywood, on Friday, December 31 with extended hours until 2:00 a.m.
EVE is included in the price of theme park admission and is a special park-wide celebration that invites guests to spend the day and party by night while enjoying its popular and award-winning rides and attractions.
What a way to celebrate as guests and partygoers can rejoice in new year festivities with a cast of leading characters, including Max, Snowball, Gidget, Chloe and Duke from Illumination’s all-new, award-winning “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” ride or mark the occasion with prehistoric dinosaurs at “Jurassic World—The Ride,” featuring the stunningly realistic Indominus rex.
EVE is also the ideal location to bid farewell to 2021 as the world ushers in 2022 and new beginnings. Starting at 9:00 p.m., the theme park transitions into party central as multiple entertainment hubs will energize guests with live music and DJs, playing everything from pop, rock and hip-hop to EDM to Latin music. Plus, iconic photo ops around the park will allow guests to capture and share their memories of the special night. The event culminates with a traditional New Year’s Eve countdown and dazzling fireworks display.
A selection of food and beverages, including desserts, champagne, beer, wine and cocktails, as well as 2022 memorabilia will be available for purchase.
While ringing in the New Year, guests can enjoy the return of yuletide favorite, “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” featuring “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts TM Castle” which brings the iconic Hogwarts castle to life through an impressive light projection show. Family traditions continue with “Grinchmas” as guests can share the joyful season with The Grinch, his faithful dog Max and the Who-ville Whos.
Holiday entertainment at Universal Studios Hollywood runs daily now through Sunday, January 9, 2022.
Universal Studios Hollywood,
To purchase tickets include Holidays and EVE access, guests can click here.
Pass Members benefit from special offers for the event. To learn more and to purchase tickets, Pass Members can click here.
As seen in the end credits of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Marvel Studios has officially debuted the teaser trailer and poster for the highly-anticipated Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness — a thrilling ride through the Multiverse with Doctor Strange, his trusted friend and Sorcerer Supreme Wong and Wanda Maximoff aka Scarlet Witch. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness arrives only in theaters on May 6, 2022!
In the teaser, Doctor Strange doesn’t heed Wong’s warning, “Don’t cast that spell. It’s too dangerous.” Strange realizes they “tampered with the stability of spacetime.” Mordo’s voice threatens, “Your desecration of reality will not go unpunished,” as Strange steps out into what appears to be the Mirror Dimension.
Strange pleads, “But I never meant for any of this happen,” as viewers see glimpses of an abandoned Sanctum Sanctorum, mayhem in the streets, Christine Palmer’s wedding to someone other than Strange, Wanda Maximoff’s glowing hands, and a battered Wong.
Strange visits Wanda at her new home in a remote area. Wanda declares, “I made mistakes and people were hurt,” not realizing Strange is not there to discuss the events in Westview, as seen in Marvel Studios’ WandaVision. He needs her help regarding the Multiverse.
Mordo reminds Strange, “The greatest threat to our universe is you,” just as Strange comes face to face, well, with his face, who smugly states, “Things just got out of hand.”
Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, California debuted the all-new exhibition “All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives”. Visitors can get up-close and personal views of jewelry and costume accessories from the library catalog of Walt Disney Studios and 20th Century Studios films. The pieces displayed are just some of many significant parts of fitting characters with their costumes and accessories to help tell the story on the big and small screen. The collections have been featured in many fan-favorites ranging from musicals, action, fantasy, supernatural, and adventure genres.
20th Century Studios is well represented in the archives with the Heart of the Ocean diamond necklace from “Titanic”, The Prince of Humbug from “The Greatest Showman”, an oversized ring intended for “Romeo + Juliet”, cross necklace from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, Voltron necklace and ring pop from “Deadpool”, ring from “Robin Hood: Men in Tights”, and Jamie Lee Curtis’ heart necklace from “True Lies”.
Walt Disney Studios has brought epic journeys to life with the frozen and majestic crowns from the “The Chronicles of Narnia” series, cursed Aztec gold coin necklace, Tia Dalma’s crab necklace, and Captain Jack Sparrow’s rings from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series, Queen Narissa’s crown from “Enchanted”, Santa’s magic wristwatch from “The Santa Clause” series, Chewbacca’s Medal of Yavin and Rose Tico’s moon necklace from “Star Wars”, and costumes, crowns, medals, and paintings from “The Princess Diaries” series.
The Disney company has also translated animated features into live-action spectacles with the witch’s crown and matchmaker dress from “Mulan”, Danny DeVito’s moon-faced pocket watch from “Dumbo”, Cogsworth’s pocket watch from “Beauty and the Beast”, charms and pendant for Cruella de Vil from “101 Dalmatians” and “Cruella”, rings and crown for the Queen of Hearts from “Alice in Wonderland”, glass slipper from “Cinderella”, and Genie’s costume and the magic lamp from “Aladdin”.
Obscure and lesser-known Disney productions get their recognition including the two-way radio wristwatch and Breathless Mahoney’s earrings from “Dick Tracy”, Marvin Acme’s cufflinks from “Who Framed Roger Rabbit”, Tik Tok’s badge from “Return to Oz”, King Brian’s crown from “Darby O’Gill and the Little People”, Amulet of Time from “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time”, and the sporks crown from “The Muppets Most Wanted”.
From the Marvel Cinematic Universe comes a plethora of treasures from popular titles like the golden horns from “Loki”, Scarlett Witch’s rings from “WandaVision”, necklace from “Black Panther”, the Eye of Agamotto from Dr. Strange, jade necklace from “Shang-Chi”, and the ten rings worn by the Mandarin in “Iron Man 3”.
Bowers Museum has succeeded once again to bring another sparkling exhibition from the Walt Disney Archives. We hope this partnership lasts dazzles for years to come. The exhibition is respectfully housed in an Orange County museum not too from the Disneyland Resort. So the local area should be quite accessible to not only die-hard Disney fanatics but also admirers of cinema and fashion.
A small selection of shirts, sweaters, and bags are available in the Gallery Store to commemorate your visit to the exhibition at the Bowers Museum. “All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives” is curated by the Walt Disney Archives in conjunction with the Bowers Museum. Now open until June 19, 2022.
CHOC (Children’s Health of Orange County) wants to make sure hospitalized patients and their families don’t miss out on the magic of the season. CHOC has launched “Deck the Halls,” a unique event created to address some of the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Disneyland Resort, CHOC’s longest-tenured and largest corporate donor, has magically transformed the entrance and main lobby of CHOC’s Orange hospital into a wonderland of holiday delights and good cheer for the month of December.
With the support of valued corporate partners such as Hyundai, Chick-fil-A, Credit Union for Kids, Tustin Toyota, Hill Brothers Chemical Company, and Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, holiday tote bags will be distributed to patients throughout December.
A virtual celebration will be broadcast from CHOC’s in-house Seacrest Studios on December 10, 2021 — bringing activities like Disney holiday cupcake decorating, storytime with Santa Claus, gingerbread house building and more, directly to patients who aren’t able to leave their rooms.
Due to safety measures set in place by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, CHOC cannot bring certain, highly anticipated, experiences to its young patients—such as the in-hospital Minnie Walk event that brings the annual CHOC Walk, presented by Disneyland Resort, straight to hospital patients. So, the CHOC Community Engagement team conceived of a new, clever, and safe way to support CHOC’s patients and families during the holidays, and that’s when Deck the Halls event was created.
“No one should have to be in a hospital during the holidays. With a little help from our supporters, we hope to add some cheer for those in need of healing and hope,” states Zach Abrams, Assistant Vice President of Community Engagement, CHOC Foundation. “Our ‘Deck the Halls’ campaign is also an opportunity for all of our friends and supporters to donate in a meaningful way during this season of giving and fundraising for a worthy cause here in our own community.”
How to Support Choc
COVID-19 protocols prevent the “Deck the Halls” event from being open to the public but community members can support the event, and CHOC programs throughout the year, in three ways:
Donate toward holiday tote bags and festivities that will help bring the “Deck the Halls” event to life. Donations will go towards items like toys, crafts, and activities for patients and families throughout the month of December.
Sponsor decorations to add extra merriment into the hospital halls. Underwriting opportunities include decorating each floor with different holiday themes, lighting up the CHOC “Bridge to Hope,” funding balloon garland, and more.
Fundraise to help CHOC create magical moments during its virtual celebration by creating a fundraising page to share on social platforms. Ardent supporters can create their own “Holiday Fundraising Team” to increase outreach and donations by getting friends and family involved.
Over its 30-year history, the popular fundraising event CHOC Walk in the Park, presented by Disneyland Resort, has raised more than $38.5 million for CHOC, Orange County’s only pediatric healthcare system. These funds support programs and services for CHOC’s greatest needs—from mental health services to child life activities and more. The “Deck the Halls” event and campaign continues the spirit of CHOC Walk in the Park by creating an unforgettable holiday event while raising vital funds for CHOC.
This holiday season two shows recognize and envelopes themselves in the Christmas spirit. The former is Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and the latter is E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1816 short story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King”. But more specifically, Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s music composition for the two-act ballet of “The Nutcracker”.
The instant recognition of a nutcracker tucked under the Christmas tree alongside serene melodies of the classic overture makes it no surprise as to its popularity especially as the 2021 winter season recovers from the previous year.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts celebrates American Ballet Theatre’s production of “The Nutcracker” now playing until December 19, 2021.
The story follows a young little girl named Clara and her dreamlike fantasy with a charming Nutcracker dressed as a handsome soldier. The unique gift is given to Clara by her godfather, Drosselmeyer, at the family holiday party. From there, Drosselmeyer entertains guests young and old with life-sized dolls demonstrating his skill as a toymaker. When the party ends and everyone in the household is asleep, Clara returns to her beloved Nutcracker lying dormant under the Christmas tree. The grandfather clock chimes at the stroke of midnight where a magical transformation occurs. Everything around the grand parlor seems to grow larger.
Hee Seo and Cory Stearns in The Nutcracker. Photo: Doug Gifford.
Clara finds herself as small as a toy figurine sitting atop a massive chair. The spectacular image conveys a sort of Alice in Wonderland quality. A great battle ensues below between the Nutcracker and the Mouse King. The brave Nutcracker is able to prevail with the help of Clara throwing her shoe down at the oversized villainous rodent. Like the story of Pinocchio, the Nutcracker transforms into a real boy and rejoices with Clara in a winter wonderland surrounded by a blizzard of beautiful snowflakes dancing with harmonious glee. Godfather Drosselmeyer takes the young couple on a sleigh ride to the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy where their victory is celebrated with delightful dances from around the world.
The American Ballet Theatre brings a much-needed classic to life not only with colorful costumes, precision dance movements, and child-like endearment but also with the swift live orchestration of the Pacific Symphony. The flawless production runs just over two hours with one intermission between the two-act ballet. The program guide provides not only credits to the dedicated cast and crew but also a story synopsis.
This plays an important role especially for those not already familiar with the story of “The Nutcracker” as the ballet is portrayed through tranquil music, majestic dance, lovely costumes, and exaggerated body movements without any exchange of spoken dialogue. This holiday season, Segerstrom Center for the Arts invites you to a feast for the eyes, heart, and soul to the eternal classic of “The Nutcracker” as specially presented by the American Ballet Theatre.
In its annual holiday engagement, American Ballet Theatre will give 12 performances between December 10 through December 19, 2021, in Segerstrom Hall. This year marks the 6th time that The Center has presented ABT’s The Nutcracker, Southern California’s grandest production of this beloved holiday tradition. This Nutcracker features ABT’s international all-star cast.
Disney Vacation Development, Inc. – the developer of Disney’s vacation ownership program, Disney Vacation Club – and Interval International, a leading provider of vacation services, have signed an agreement to affiliate 15 Disney Vacation Club resorts in Florida, California, Hawai’i, and South Carolina. The agreement reinstates a relationship that was first established in 1995.
Effective January 1, 2022, Disney Vacation Club Members will enjoy access to a variety of travel and leisure benefits. This includes the opportunity to exchange their vacation points for stays at resorts in Interval’s global network of more than 3,200 properties.
“For the past 30 years, Disney Vacation Club has been a leader in vacation ownership and has provided its members and guests with exceptional experiences. We are delighted to welcome them back to the Interval network,” said Jeanette Marbert, president of Interval International. “Our companies have always shared a strong commitment to customer service excellence. This common vision, along with the superior quality of Disney’s world-class resorts, makes this affiliation an ideal match for our members.”
“Since opening our first resort in 1991, we’ve been unwavering in our passion to provide our Members with one-of-a-kind vacations,” said Bill Diercksen, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Club. “As we continue to grow our portfolio of new experiences, we are excited to join forces with Interval International to offer our members even more ways to use their points through access to Interval’s quality exchange network and their travel and lifestyle offerings.”
Disney Vacation Club Members will enjoy many flexible exchange opportunities and upgraded benefits and services. These include the ability to exchange their points toward ShortStay Exchange®, receive discounts on Getaway vacation rentals, and utilize VIP ConciergeSM for personal assistance, 24/7. Interval’s hotel exchange benefit will also be available to eligible Disney Vacation Club Members at a later date.
The agreement comprises the following Disney Vacation Club properties:
Ko Olina, Hawai‘i
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Anaheim, California
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort
Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Boardwalk Villas
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Cooper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Vero Beach, Florida
Disney’s Vero Beach Resort
About Interval International
Interval International operates membership programs for vacationers and provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide. Based in Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving the vacation ownership market since 1976. Today, Interval’s exchange network comprises more than 3,200 resorts in more than 80 countries. Through offices in 13 countries, Interval offers world-class products and benefits to resort clients and more than 1.4 million families who are enrolled in various membership programs. Interval is an operating business of Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: VAC), a leading global vacation company that offers vacation ownership, exchange, rental and resort and property management, along with related businesses, products and services.
About Disney Vacation Club
Disney Vacation Club, a leader in vacation ownership, debuted in 1991 with a flexible, vacation points-based system rather than the traditional fixed-week timeshare model.
Today, Disney Vacation Club has more than 250,000 Member families, from all 50 states and approximately 100 countries, who have discovered the joys of membership.
Disney Vacation Club Members are able to choose from among a variety of exciting vacation destinations, including a stay at any Disney Vacation Club Resort or one of thousands of other vacation options in destinations around the world. Plus, when purchasing directly from Disney, Members can also enjoy the Disney Collection, which includes select Disney Resort hotels, Disney Cruise Line and guided vacations with Adventures by Disney, as well as the Concierge Collection, a portfolio of extraordinary hotels in sought-after destinations. Vacations at a Disney Vacation Club Resort can last anywhere from one night to several weeks.
With Disney Vacation Club properties located near the Disney theme parks in Florida and California, Members have easy access to new and innovative attractions on both coasts for years to come. For more information, visit www.disneyvacationclub.com.
The holidays are almost here and that means spending more time with family and loved ones. With a vast library of games, there is something for everyone on the Nintendo Switch family of systems this holiday season. This includes multiplayer titles that the whole family can play together*, in addition to fun games and experiences you can enjoy on your own.
Check Out Nintendo Games Starring Mario, Luigi, and Many Other Classic Characters on the Nintendo Switch Family of Systems.
With the Nintendo Switch family of systems, everyone has the choice of a system that best fits their needs and play styles. Nintendo Switch can be played on the TV or taken on the go for portable play, while Nintendo Switch Lite is a dedicated gaming handheld system great for those who love playing in handheld mode. Nintendo Switch – OLED Model has a similar overall size to the Nintendo Switch system, but with a larger, vibrant 7-inch OLED screen with vivid colors and crisp contrast.
Here are some of the Nintendo Switch games people are talking about this year:
In Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain,you’ll go brain-to-brain with others in a series of fun, family-friendly activities that are sure to test your mental mettle. Everyone can play together at varying difficulties, so a kid can hold their own against an adult in this battle of the brains.
The full game launches on Dec. 3, but if you want to try your hand at some mind-tickling challenges today, a free demo is available right now in Nintendo eShop or download directly to your Nintendo Switch from the official website.
In Mario Party Superstars, available now, roll your dice and race to get the most stars (and sabotage your opponents) on five different game boards and take on 100 classic minigames fit for the whole family. You’ll have a blast in this all-star funfest filled with some of your favorite characters from the Super Mario series. Want to play with far-off friends and family? All modes can be played locally* and online**.
If you’re looking to wind down from holiday travel or get-togethers, take a look at the Pokémon Brilliant Diamondand Pokémon Shining Pearlgames. Experience the nostalgic story from the Pokémon DiamondVersion and Pokémon PearlVersion games in an adventure reborn on the Nintendo Switch system, available now.
Or escape to a deserted island and create your own paradise as you explore, create and customize in the Animal Crossing: New Horizonsgame, out now. In the new paid downloadable content Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise*** you’ll travel to a chain of charming islands in an archipelago where you can design the dream vacation homes of your clients, decorate island facilities – like a school and a restaurant – and discover new ways to create and personalize.
This Black Friday, Nintendo is offering a great value with a Nintendo Switch bundle with the digital version of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game and a three-month individual membership to Nintendo Switch Online****. For a suggested retail price of $299.99, that’s the price of a Nintendo Switch system, with a game and a 3-month Nintendo Switch Online membership at no extra cost.
Additionally, several Nintendo Switch games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe,Splatoon 2, Super Mario Maker 2,Paper Mario: The Origami King,Kirby Star Allies, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening,Fire Emblem: Three Houses,ASTRAL CHAINandXenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition will be available for $20 off their suggested retail price.
There will also be deals on the Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit and Ring Fit Adventure games. Starting on Nov. 21,, while supplies last, Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit will be available at a suggested retail price of $59.99 (a savings of $40*****) and Ring Fit Adventure will be available at a suggested retail price of $54.99 (a savings of $25*****).
*Additional games, systems and/or accessories may be required for multiplayer mode. Games, systems and some accessories sold separately.
**Any Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required for online features. Not available in all countries. Internet access is required for online features. Terms apply. nintendo.com/switch-online
***Full version of game required to use DLC. Sold separately.
****Offer valid 11/27/2021, while supplies last. Included Nintendo Switch Online membership auto-renews at the end of three months. Terms apply. nintendo.com/switch-online
*****Savings based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Actual discount may vary.
Peacock has announced it is expanding its animated programming with a full season order of the all-new original YA fantasy series SUPERNATURAL ACADEMY, produced by 41 Entertainment.
The series is the book adaptation of the best-selling series “The Supernatural Academy” from Jaymin Eve, chronicling an otherworldly adventure of sisters marked at birth. One twin sister was raised in the Supernatural world, confident and popular.
The other was raised in the human world, an offbeat outsider. Now they’re about to be reunited at the Supernatural Academy, and neither one of them is thrilled about it. These adversarial twins will have to learn to get over their differences and trust each other in order to save themselves – and save the world!
“It is so incredible to see my original story come to life in this high-quality animation project,” said Jaymin Eve, author of the best-selling series ‘The Supernatural Academy.’ “I am so grateful to both Peacock and 41 Entertainment for believing in me and I am sure that all of the fans of the books are anxiously marking January 20th on their diaries.”
SUPERNATURAL ACADEMY premieres Thursday, January 20, 2022, on Peacock.
ABOUT THE SERIES:
Executive Producer: Allen Bohbot
Series Director: Steve Ball
Animation Director: Jody Prouse
Developed and Written for Television by: Gillian Horvath
Original theme songs composed by: John Majkut
Produced By: 41 Entertainment (Kong- King of the Apes, Tarzan and Jane, Super Monsters)
Animation services provided by: ICON Creative Studio
Format: 16 episodes x 30 minutes, YA Animated Fantasy Series
VOICE CAST:
LARISSA DIAS (Supernatural, Falling Skies, Hallmark’s When Calls the Heart) as “Jessa Lebron.” Jessa is a popular Wolf Shifter in her junior year at the Supernatural Academy. She has everything a girl could ever ask for including a supportive father and four best friends with their own unique supernatural skills.
GIGI SAUL GUERRO (Marvel Super Hero Adventures, Into the Dark: CULTURE SHOCK, Super Monsters, Nina’s World) as “Mischa Jackson/Lebron.” Raised by a single mom with a tendency to move from place to place, Mischa has never fit in anywhere. The timid, creative, and sweet-natured girl transforms after realizing her mother has hidden who she truly is for sixteen years.
VINCENT TONG (Ninjago, Ice Age: Adventures of Buck Wild, The Dragon Prince) as “Maximus.” Max is a natural leader as proven through his watchful eye on his younger brother Braxton.
CARDI WONG (Are you Afraid of the Dark?, Supergirl) as “Braxton.” Brax is the lovable, goofy, and smooth talker of the group.
SHANNON CHAN-KENT (You, Woke, Good Trouble, Life Sentence) as “Elda Kristov.” Elda is the daughter of the Headmaster of the Supernatural Academy and sees Jessa as her main rival for Queen Bee status.
BETHANY BROWN (Charmed, The 100) as “Terra.” Terra is Jessa’s lifelong bestie. Terra’s unique power of sorcery perfectly rounds out the group’s supernatural abilities.
BRIAN DRUMMOND (Mega Man: Fully Charged, The Willoughbys) as “Headmaster Kristov.” Kristov proves himself to be manipulative, villainy, and self-righteous as he plots against the Lebron twins from the moment they are reunited.
BARBARA KOTTMEIER (Supernatural, Motive, Falling for Vermont) as “Lienda Jackson/Lebron.” Lienda is the true definition of a Mother. She is a strong woman who has sacrificed her supernatural ability and a life with one of her twin daughters, solely to protect her family.
ALESSANDRO JULIANI (Battlestar Galactica, The Magicians, Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce, The 100) as “Jonathon Lebron.” As head of the World Council and the Alpha Wolf of the Lebron pack, Jonathon not only has a civic duty but a paternal instinct to save the realms and his daughters.
ALI J EISNER (Fraggle Rock, Gisele’s Big Backyard) as “Jae.” A Faerie whose music has the literal charm to soothe savage beasts and create new life.
DIANA KAARINA (The Hollow, Barbie, My Little Pony, Strawberry Shortcake) as “Santra.” As the new history teacher at Supernatural Academy, Santra is the intelligent, compassionate, and confident guide that students can rely on.
KATHLEEN BARR (Sabrina: Secrets of a Teenage Witch, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Johnny Test) as “Yufon.” Yufon is a powerful and stern member of the World Council.
The launch of Japanese artist Hiro Ando’s new collection will take place on December 19. On this occasion, 4747 Samurai Cats will be offered in an entirely digital sale.
With this initiative, Ando, the key figure of Japanese neo-pop art and co-founder of Studio Crazy NOOdles, intends to revolutionize the contemporary art market by relying entirely on NFTs or “non-fungible tokens.”
These digital property titles guarantee the authenticity of the artworks and allow the artist and buyer to navigate between the physical and virtual worlds.
Hiro Ando, a multidisciplinary and subversive artist who weaves traditional themes with modern ones, has
established himself as a leading artist of the Japanese new pop wave. Inspired by the world of manga and the emblematic characters such as the Samurai or the sumo wrestler, he revealed himself to the general public with his sculptures in the form of cats, Samurai Cats, sold for tens of thousands of euros.
This year, the artist’s collective offers for sale a unique and avant-garde collection, the 4747 Samurai Cats
– the warriors of 47 Ronin. These digital collectibles use the Ethereum blockchain and are randomly
assembled from over 300 layers drawn by Hiro Ando.
Buyers will receive benefits upon Hiro Ando’s physical artworks through the use of NFTs. These include access to the Samurai Cat image, the virtual gallery, and previews of upcoming collections (physical and/or digital)
By deciding to put NFTs at the heart of this new collection, Crazy NOOdles Studio intends to participate in
the artistic revolution that is well underway. Indeed, the “non-fungible tokens” are about to revolutionize
the contemporary art market, according to the annual report of the company Artprice published on
October 4, 2021.
Their exponential growth, which reached $2.7 billion in the 2020-2021 fiscal year (+117%), can be explained by the online migration of contemporary art auctions since the beginning of the 2020 global health crisis.
From now on, owners of physical artworks by Hiro Ando can claim a free NFT. This action opens the doors
not only to a modern and daring artistic community but also to a virtual world, the metaverse.
Based in Tokyo, Studio Crazy NOOdles was founded in 2005 by Saori Nakamishi and Hiro Ando with the aim of promoting the creation and dissemination of young Japanese new wave pop artists on the world stage.
This creative collective, a true artistic enterprise, intends to follow the approach of Andy Warhol whose
popular art redefines culture and mass consumption.
Hiro ANDO, the Studio’s leader, is gradually making his mark on the art world and is naturally emerging as the Japanese artist to watch closely.
The Disneyland Resort has announced that two fan-favorite, limited-time festivals will be back next year at Disney California Adventure Park! The Lunar New Year celebration will take place from Jan. 21 through Feb. 13, 2022, and Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival will run from March 4 through April 26, 2022.
There’s something so special about the limited-time festivals at Disney California Adventure park. For some, it’s all about the decadent food and beverage offerings.
For others, it’s the unique festival experiences and fun characters. No matter what your festival delight, one thing is for sure – there’s no shortage of Disney magic! Here are some highlights for what to expect when these festivals return.
Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park is a joyous celebration that commemorates traditions of Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures. The festival is filled with multicultural performances, special activities, culinary delights, beautiful décor, celebratory merchandise, and more!
In 2022, we will be celebrating the Year of the Tiger at the Lunar New Year festival. New this year, Tigger will join in on the fun, along with beloved Disney characters including Mulan and Mushu, Mickey and Minnie, the Three Little Pigs and more, all donning their festive attire.
Adding to the excitement of Lunar New Year, Raya from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ film, “Raya and the Last Dragon” will be appearing for the very first time at Disneyland Resort during the celebration! Guests will be able to see Raya in a setting inspired by her native Kumandra, recreated in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.
The captivating “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” will return. This bright and bold performance hosted by Mulan and her faithful dragon, Mushu, will feature dozens of spirited parade performers as they honor family, friendship, and the potential for a fortune-filled new year. Live musical entertainment will also be enjoyed at the Paradise Garden Bandstand.
The Sip and Savor Pass will also be back, for extra enjoyment as Guests taste their way through the four Lunar New Year marketplaces, all featuring delicious Asian cuisine. Additionally, there will be special Lunar New Year-inspired food and beverage offerings at select dining locations throughout the park.
Other cherished Lunar New Year traditions including the Lucky Wishing Wall and craft activities will also be enjoyed at this year’s celebration.
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, March 4 – April 26, 2022
In 2022, family and friends will come together to get a taste of what they’ve been missing at the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival! At the festival, Guests will be able to explore California regions and neighborhoods in a number of ways, from the delicious fare to the vibrant entertainment, fun festival merchandise, and more.
During the festival, guests will get to taste their way through a dozen festival marketplaces that offer an assortment of mouthwatering bites and beverages for every palate. There will also be the option to purchase a Sip and Savor Pass to enjoy the unique marketplace offerings.
Complimentary culinary demonstrations with local, celebrity and Disney chefs will return for the whole family to enjoy on Saturdays and Sundays during the festival. And for those looking to enhance their festival experience, special signature events will also be available to book and purchase, including the Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions, and Wine, Beer and Mixology Education & Tasting Seminars.
Entertainment will fill the festival’s stages, with live musical performances at the Palisades Stage and Paradise Gardens Bandstand, visits with Chef Goofy and friends, and craft activities.
Additional details about the upcoming Lunar New Year celebration and Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival will be shared soon.
Disney+ has released character posters of Boba Fett and Fennec Shand, and debuted an exciting TV spot for its new, live-action series from Lucasfilm, “The Book of Boba Fett.”
Disney+ also announced that the series will have seven weekly episodes, commencing December 29, exclusively on the streaming channel.
“The Book of Boba Fett,” a thrilling Star Wars adventure teased in a surprise end-credit sequence following the Season 2 finale of “The Mandalorian,” finds legendary bounty hunter Boba Fett and mercenary Fennec Shand navigating the galaxy’s underworld when they return to the sands of Tatooine to stake their claim on the territory once ruled by Jabba the Hutt and his crime syndicate.
“The Book of Boba Fett” stars Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen. Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Robert Rodriguez, Kathleen Kennedy,) and Colin Wilson are the executive producers. Karen Gilchrist and Carrie Beck serve as co-executive producers, with John Bartnicki producing and John Hampian as co-producer.
Holiday in the Park returns to Six Flags Magic Mountain with lighting displays, light entertainment, limited shopping, and select food options. If you’ve been to this event before, you can expect just about the same offerings from years before. Winter Wonder Lands have returned with Holiday Square, Snowy Nights, Santa’s Village, Polar Point, Peppermint Path, Gleampunk District, and Merry Lane.
Keep in mind that Holiday in the Park is advertised as beginning at 5 pm nightly, the seasonal food and drink is actually available throughout the day at their respective locations.
So foodies should have plenty of time to indulge before nightfall. In addition, Santa’s Village opens at 1 pm through December 24 to visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus for meet and greets photos and coloring for the little ones.
The only significantly new area to the roster of Winder Wonder Lands is “HollyRock!” to coincide with the January 2020 opening of the park’s newest ride, the dueling roller coaster West Coast Racers. Bringing along with it a 1950’s rockabilly holiday featuring a canopy of lights, classic cars, jolly jugglers, Six Flags Bus, fire pit with hot rod decor, Christmas trees, stilt walkers, character interactions, and tunes from an oversized jukebox.
Merry Lane sits front and center in the plaza that connects Riddler’s Revenge and Justice League: Battle for Metropolis. This area mostly features canopies of oversized ornament balls of light, stilt walkers, and an illuminated holiday Wishing Oaktree.
Gleampunk District focuses its theme inspired by a single ride. Much like HollyRock! is to West Coast Racers, this district keeps its daytime steampunk theme that coincides with Twisted Colossus. Featuring a sleigh photo-op, icy blue lights, mechanical decor, stilt walkers, and a cyclist.
Polar Point tucks itself in the garden walking path between the Grand Carousel and X2. A blue hue of floodlights engulfs the snowy statues of polar bears and penguins.
Peppermint Path sprinkles colors of red and white in the overhanging tree branches. A blanket of snow leaves behind more snow sculptures of animal critters such as a leopard and owl. Enchanted characters greets you on your way to Mrs. Claus’ cabin for sweet and savory treats. A fire pit crackles nearby waiting to warm your marshmallow for a gooey s’more.
The entertainment is not just limited to stilt walkers and roaming characters. Snow Nights set up a tinsel tall stage by the Full Throttle roller coaster ready to rock the night away with a spinning DJ, wrapping dancers, and a live band.
Live performances of holiday musicTinsel Toy Dancers
The evening ends through a kaleidoscope of lights at the park’s main entrance and exit called Holiday Square. Even toy soldiers march along the wide-open path.
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain is not a must-do event. But it’s perfect for those that already have a season pass, made previous plans to visit the park during the season, and for families with small children. The seasonal event offers something a little more for your day and provides additional value to extend your evening stay.
Luckily the seasonal food offerings are served all day so you don’t have to wait until 5 pm when the festive lights finally do turn on. Especially knowing many of the food locations close early before park closing. So if you already enjoy the thrills of big roller coasters and love to celebrate the holidays with loved ones with similar tastes, this is the place for you.
Disney Legend, author and Cal State Fullerton alumna Martha Blanding will speak at a CSUF commencement ceremony for the College of Humanities and Social...
