Podcasts about grand californian hotel

Dana returns from an amazing visit to the Disneyland Resort, after attending a Disney Travel Agent conference. Dana shares everything she learned about the new 70th anniversary events, parades, and nighttime spectaculars. Dana stayed at the Grand Californian Hotel and has some thoughts.

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We're kicking off our multi-day Disneyland trip report with everything that went down on Day 1—from coast-to-coast travel logistics to indulging in incredible food and drink around Downtown Disney.We start with trip planning details, including why we chose this time of year, how far in advance we booked, total costs, and what it took to get from Florida to Anaheim. We break down our travel day experience, our choice of transportation, and what it's like navigating the journey from the airport to the magic.Next, we dive into our stay at the charming and historic Candy Cane Inn, including fun facts (like how it was almost named the “Cinderella Inn” until Walt stepped in), amenities, and why it might be the best off-property value near Disneyland.Then we explore Downtown Disney, grabbing a bite at Naples Ristorante e Bar (spoiler: the Prosciutto e Melone pizza and mocktails are winners), shopping at World of Disney, and taking in the luxurious ambiance of Disney's Grand Californian Hotel.Our evening wraps up with refreshing drinks—including an impressive non-alcoholic lineup—at Ballast Point Brewing Co., a flavorful dinner at the newly reimagined Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, and a sweet stop at Beignets Expressed.MEI-Travel – Expertise. Ease. Value.No matter where you want to go, our trusted partner MEI-Travel, will handle the planning so you can focus on the memories. They offer free vacation planning services and have nearly 20 years of experience creating memorable vacations. Visit MEI-Travel for a fee-free, no-obligation quote today!Follow Us on Social MediaFacebook GroupFacebook: @MainStMagicTwitter: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastInstagram: @MainStMagicVisit Us Onlinewww.MainStMagic.comwww.MainStreetShirts.comGet Dining Alerts!Find last-minute and hard-to-find Disney dining reservations with MouseDining.com! Get text and email alerts when popular theme park dining reservations open up. Get last-minute seating! Get the next table! Set your alerts now! Get the next reservation!Visit our Partnerswww.MSMFriends.com Thanks to TFresh Productions for our theme song

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today! Training is an essential part of employee development, but a one-time session is rarely enough to ensure long-term success. Many organizations struggle with finding the balance between equipping employees with the knowledge they need upfront and reinforcing that learning over time. Without ongoing reinforcement, employees may struggle to retain information, lack confidence in their roles, and ultimately provide a subpar guest experience. In this episode, Matt and Josh talk about the importance of ongoing training and development, exploring how organizations can build confidence and competence over time to improve both employee performance and guest satisfaction. The Most Important Part of Training "The way that they could take what they're learning and immediately see it through their lens and apply it directly to the specific aspects of their job duties... That's the most important part.” Training is only effective if employees can connect it directly to their roles. The best training programs help team members understand the practical applications of what they're learning, ensuring they can implement new knowledge in real-world situations. The Importance of Ongoing Learning "The learning doesn't stop just because the training does." Employees absorb and process information at different rates. Some may excel with a single training session, while others need repeated reinforcement. Instead of relying on one-time training events, organizations should adopt a continuous learning model that provides opportunities for employees to practice, fail, and improve over time. Balancing Immediate Performance Needs with Long-Term Growth "We need you to have the standard that we expect from you. Therefore, the bandwidth to fail maybe tightens a little bit." Organizations must balance the necessity of immediate performance with the reality that true skill development takes time. Investing in early training while implementing ongoing reinforcement helps employees develop without compromising the guest experience. The Know-Feel-Do Framework "What do you want them to know? How do you want them to feel? And what do you want them to do?" The Know-Feel-Do framework provides a structured approach to training: Know – What key information should employees retain? Feel – How should they emotionally connect to the training? Do – What actions should they take after the training? By incorporating all three elements, organizations can ensure training is engaging, relevant, and actionable. Reinforcement Through Daily Operations "If you're not the one leading the charge in terms of training, employees will learn from someone else – and you might not like the outcome." Training shouldn't exist in isolation. Organizations can integrate learning into daily operations by: Holding structured pre-shift meetings with quick training refreshers. Providing real-time coaching and feedback. Using guest interactions and real-life scenarios to reinforce learning. Encouraging a Culture of Learning "People want to learn more. They want to continue to be challenged." Creating an environment where learning is continuous fosters engagement and retention. Employees who feel supported in their development are more likely to stay motivated and committed to delivering high-quality service. What strategies does your organization use for ongoing employee training? Share your thoughts with us! This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team:   Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan   To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

This week, St. Patricks Day at the resort, an Easter tradition is not happening this year, updates for Grand Californian guests, costumes from Snow White are on display, we finish our conversation with Jeff, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Earlier this week was St. Patrick's Day and Disneyland had limited offerings. The only things at the resort were a version of the Gray Stuff – called The Green Stuff at Red Rose Tavern, and a St. Paddy's Day t-shirt featuring Kermit the Frog. Of course, the Little Man of Disneyland, Patrick Begorra was celebrating at his tiny home in Adventureland. – https://www.micechat.com/411058-disneyland-news-constructions-projects-new-management-cutbacks/ Guests staying at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will delight in the updates happening. New entry gates are being installed to go along with the new entry gates at the Monorail station in Downtown Disney, and the entrances to Disney California Adventure and Disneyland. Two of the full-service restaurants, Storytellers Café and Napa Rose, are undergoing refurbishments, a new concierge lounge, and updated to rooms. – https://www.micechat.com/411058-disneyland-news-constructions-projects-new-management-cutbacks/ Over at Carthay Circle restaurant, there are costumes on display from the Snow White live action feature. The costumes are worn by Snow White, played by Rachel Zegler, and the Evil Queen, played by Gal Gadot. The original, animated feature Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premiered at the original Carthay Circle Theater in Los Angeles on December 21, 1937. – https://www.micechat.com/411058-disneyland-news-constructions-projects-new-management-cutbacks/ https://mickeyblog.com/2025/03/17/live-action-snow-white-costumes-are-now-on-display-at-disneyland-resort/ This week, the Easter Foodie Guide was posted by Disney. This year, you can book a spot at Goofy's Kitchen Celebrates Springtime! at the Disneyland Hotel, or Storytellers Cafe Easter Buffet at the Grand Californian. Another Easter item is a Thumper Spring popcorn bucket. – https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/disney-eats-easter-foodie-guide-2025/ An Easter tradition is not returning this year. The coveted chocolate Easter eggs at Candy Palace are not going to be on the menu. This is a result of cost-cutting measures at the candy kitchens. There are less offerings at the moment than in the past. – https://www.micechat.com/411058-disneyland-news-constructions-projects-new-management-cutbacks/ SnackChat: Jolly Holiday – https://www.instagram.com/p/DHV_PmsOIUT/?img_index=9&igsh=d21nZHAybXRydHdm https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2025/03/18/an-iconic-disneyland-restaurant-reopens-with-new-menu-items-soon/ TriviaLand: Dapper Dans - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCM2xzj75Wk Discussion Topic: Jeff Barnes Dr. Disneyland and author of The Wisdom of Walt https://thewisdomofwalt.com/

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today! Allen Greene is the Senior Design Director at Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum. With a background in theme park design and experience working at Kings Island and with firms like Jack Rouse Associates, Allen brings a wealth of expertise in immersive storytelling and attraction development. The Ark Encounter, a life-size recreation of Noah's Ark in Williamstown, Kentucky, and the Creation Museum, located 45 minutes away, are part of Answers in Genesis, an organization dedicated to faith-based educational experiences. In this interview, Allen talks about building the ark, designing through the lens of the guest, and faith-based attractions. Building the Ark “It was a unique goal for our team to try to recreate as real as possible Noah's Ark, but also in such a way that it's a themed experience that anybody can walk into.” Constructing the Ark Encounter was a massive undertaking that combined biblical history with modern building techniques. The Ark itself is the largest timber-frame structure in the world, standing at 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet tall. Allen describes the meticulous planning process, including consulting with shipbuilding experts and using standing-dead Engelmann spruce harvested from Utah. The project required a balance between authenticity and modern guest expectations, incorporating accessibility features such as elevators and ramps while maintaining the look and feel of an ancient ship. The design team worked in parallel with fabricators to build immersive exhibits inside the Ark, ensuring that guests could engage with the story of Noah in a meaningful way. Designing Through the Lens of the Guest “Having a frontline exposure, and seeing what guests naturally do, the questions they ask, the desires they have, that comes into the designs that we think about every day.” Allen's early career in ride operations at Kings Island helped shape his approach to attraction design, giving him first hand insight into guest behavior and operational challenges. This experience influences his design philosophy at Ark Encounter, where guest flow and storytelling are seamlessly integrated. The Ark's three decks follow a structured narrative—preparing for the flood, life on the Ark, and life after the flood—providing a mix of immersive sets, historical exhibits, and interactive displays. Balancing thematic integrity with practical functionality, the team ensures that guests not only experience the story but also navigate the attraction comfortably. By continuously evaluating guest feedback and operational pain points, the team refines exhibits and pathways to enhance the visitor experience. Faith-Based Attractions “What we're trying to create is more than just a fun day at a park. It's more than just escapism. We want people to experience an encounter, not just with the Ark, but with God.” Faith-based attractions like Ark Encounter differ from traditional theme parks in that they strive to provide a deeper, more meaningful experience for visitors. Allen explains how their mission extends beyond a single visit, offering resources such as books, educational programs, and Vacation Bible School materials to help guests continue their journey at home. He also acknowledges the challenges of catering to a specific audience while maintaining an inclusive environment where all visitors, regardless of faith, feel welcome. The team aims to balance entertainment and education, using modern tools like virtual reality to bring biblical stories to life in new and engaging ways. The demand for wholesome, family-friendly attractions continues to grow, and Ark Encounter seeks to meet that need by providing a space where guests can both enjoy and reflect.   For more information about the Ark Encounter, the Creation Museum, and upcoming events like Spark at the Ark, visit arkencounter.com, creationmuseum.org, or answersingenesis.org. You can also connect with Allen on LinkedIn. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team:   Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan   To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today! Tony Sanders is the General Manager of Old Tucson. With a career spanning multiple operators in the attractions industry, including Six Flags, Merlin, and Fun Spot, Tony has held leadership roles in operations, HR, and revenue management. Old Tucson, a unique combination of a working movie studio and an immersive Wild West attraction, has a deep-rooted history in the film industry and a strong connection to the local community. In this interview, Tony talks about Wild West entertainment, immersion without technology, and the 4 P's of leadership. Wild West Entertainment “We call ourselves a Wild West entertainment park because most of the attractions that you will see or experience are live entertainment-based.” Old Tucson is unlike traditional amusement parks, as its core experience is centered around live entertainment rather than rides. Guests are immersed in a true Western setting with gunfight stunt shows, can-can performances in the Grand Palace Saloon, and interactive experiences. Tony describes how the park's authenticity is enhanced by horse-drawn wagons, period characters, and even livestock roaming the dirt streets, bringing the Old West to life in a way that is both theatrical and historically rooted. This unique entertainment model makes Old Tucson stand out from traditional theme parks, offering an experience that feels like stepping onto the set of a classic Western film. Immersion without Technology “We have a thing called road apples here. That's where the animals who walk leave a little something on the road as they go by. That's immersive. You're going to smell it. You're going to see it.” Unlike many modern attractions that rely on screens and digital elements to create immersive experiences, Old Tucson relies entirely on its physical environment. Tony explains that the goal is to make guests feel like they've stepped back in time, using sensory immersion rather than technology. The sights, sounds, and even smells of the Old West contribute to a level of authenticity that can't be replicated with virtual reality or augmented reality. Characters roam the park engaging with guests, forming relationships before they even step into a live show. The emotional connection is so strong that when a beloved character meets their fictional demise in a performance, audience members audibly react, proving that true immersion is about storytelling, not screens. The 4 P's of Leadership “If I live these four P's, I'm trying to believe in this philosophy for my team.” Tony describes his leadership philosophy through the 4 P's: Professionalism – Treating guests, employees, and vendors with respect and maintaining a high standard of conduct. Proactive – Anticipating challenges before they arise and instilling a mindset of forward-thinking in his team. Positivity – Keeping an optimistic outlook and encouraging the same in others, even during difficult times. Passion – Leading with enthusiasm and sharing a love for the industry that inspires his team. Tony emphasizes that leadership is not just about giving direction but about building trust. He believes in strong, honest communication and encourages his team to voice concerns directly to him. He also conducts “proactive Tony walks,” where he challenges his team to identify areas for improvement in the park, helping them develop an instinct for anticipating and solving problems before they escalate.   For those who want to learn more about Old Tucson, visit oldtucson.com or follow them on social media. Tony can be contacted via LinkedIn for industry discussions and networking. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team:   Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today! Mark Moore is the Vice President and General Manager of Gulf Islands Waterpark in Gulfport, Mississippi. With nearly 30 years of experience in the water park industry, Mark started his career as a lifeguard and has since played a pivotal role in developing operational efficiencies and guest experience strategies. Gulf Islands Water Park, which opened just weeks before Hurricane Katrina in 2005, has grown into a regional attraction, drawing visitors from across the Gulf Coast. In this interview, Mark talks about cabanas as daytime hotels, balancing demand with dynamic pricing, and free soft drinks. Cabanas as Daytime Hotels “I said to a friend who operates a park with over 100 cabanas, ‘So you're a daytime hotel,' and he kind of cocked his head at me and said, ‘I never thought about it that way.'” Mark shared an insightful perspective on the role cabanas play in the water park experience. He compared them to hotel rooms, emphasizing how guests use them as a home base for relaxation, much like a hotel stay. The average length of a hotel stay, when excluding sleeping hours, is similar to the average duration of a visit to a water park—around four to five hours. With this in mind, Gulf Islands Water Park has considered adding amenities typically found in hotels, such as towels, cushioned seating, and concierge-style service, to elevate the cabana experience. Recognizing cabanas as more than just an upcharge but rather a premium hospitality experience has allowed them to enhance guest satisfaction and increase demand for these spaces. Balancing Demand with Dynamic Pricing “It took about two years to convince ownership, but once we did, we saw our weekday attendance grow by 8 to 10%, while peak weekend crowds eased up by about 2 to 3%.” Mark discussed the journey of implementing dynamic pricing at Gulf Islands Water Park, a process inspired by his experience in hotel management. The idea was initially met with hesitation, but after demonstrating how businesses across various industries use demand-based pricing to influence consumer behavior, ownership came on board. The result has been a more evenly distributed attendance pattern, reducing strain on peak days while incentivizing visits on traditionally slower weekdays. The messaging around dynamic pricing has been carefully framed to highlight guest value—focusing on the savings of visiting during less crowded periods rather than the higher cost of peak days. Over time, guests have embraced the model, with many now purchasing tickets in advance to secure the best possible rate. Free Soft Drinks “We had done everything we could to speed up our food service, but then we realized the biggest bottleneck was people deciding on drinks. Offering free soft drinks eliminated that completely.” Inspired by Holiday World's long-standing free soft drink program, Gulf Islands Water Park introduced complimentary fountain drinks as a way to improve efficiency and enhance guest experience. The results were immediate—food and beverage revenue increased by 20% in the first year, and the overall guest experience improved as wait times at food stands significantly decreased. Instead of bottlenecks forming as guests debated drink choices, they now receive their food quickly and grab a drink at self-serve stations. While there were initial operational challenges, such as managing cup waste, the overall benefits far outweighed the drawbacks. The move has been a major marketing win, with guests frequently citing free drinks as a key perk of visiting the park. Gulf Islands Water Park continues to evolve by embracing innovative operational strategies and guest-centric enhancements. To learn more about the park, visit gulfislandswaterpark.com. Mark Moore can be reached via email at mark@gulfislandswaterpark.com or by phone at 228-297-6972. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team:   Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan   To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

I'm sitting in the middle of Disneyland, the happiest place on Earth, and I can't help but share what we experienced last night! Michael and I are on a road trip from Sonoma County, and let me tell you, our first stop was nothing short of magical. The culinary experience we had at the Napa Rose Restaurant in Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa was out of this world! I woke up with my travel mic in hand, ready to dish all about our AMAZING dinner. It was the Chef's Counter experience, and trust me, it's the kind of meal that deserves its own podcast episode. I'm so excited to share with you:How the chef's counter at Napa Rose offers a unique dining experience tailored to guests' preferences. The uniqueness sitting at the counter at an open kitchen, watching the chefs in action as they created a custom menu for us Tips on how to snag the chef's counter experience, which is hard to do!A surprising and great value wine that was a perfect pairing with multiple courses Visit our website to sign up for the mailing list to know when the 2022 Sangiovese is available!Follow Sollevato Wines on Instagram Our Sollevato Sangiovese is available to be shipped to most US States. Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off. It's a delicious, medium bodied, aromatic red wine that is perfect with pizza, pasta and your charcuterie spread!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy Nikki and Michael a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode.Please leave a RATING or a REVIEW (on your podcast listening platform), or thumbs up and subscribe (on YouTube!)Questions? Comments? nikki@sipwithnikki.comYou should Follow Nikki on INSTAGRAM !!

This week, an eggcellent scavenger hunt returns to the resort, new hotel deals for the spring, good news for Matterhorn macaroon fans, we continue our conversation with Les about his time as a Walt Disney World VIP tour guide and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Mark your calendars, the Eggstravaganza returns on March 21st! This whimsical egg hunt takes place across the Disneyland Resort. Guests can purchase a map for $9.99 plus tax at select merchandise locations. There will be 3 separate maps, one for Disneyland Park, one for Disney California Adventure, and one for the Downtown Disney District. Once you have finished the hunt, you can redeem a prize. This year the prize is a selection of wooden character eggs that you can paint and decorate on your own! – https://disneyland.disney.go.com/events-tours/eggstravaganza/ New hotel offers for guests staying at the Disneyland Resort Hotels have been announced for this spring. The offer is available Sunday through Thursday nights for stays during March 23- May 15. Discounts range from up to 15% off at the Disneyland Hotel and up to 20% off at the Grand Californian Hotel or The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel – https://wdwnt.com/2025/02/save-up-to-20-on-disneyland-resort-hotels-in-spring-2025/ https://wdwnt.com/2025/02/save-up-to-20-on-disneyland-resort-hotels-in-spring-2025/ Speaking of hotel discounts, Disney Visa Cardmembers can save up to 30% on select premium rooms at a Disneyland Resort Hotel. This offer is valid March 23 – May 15. Select rooms at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and at The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel. This offer can be booked through the Disney Rewards website or by calling 1 844-604-0201 – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2025/02/21/a-new-hotel-discount-was-just-announced-for-disney-visa-cardmembers/ Changes are coming to Lightening Lane Premier Pass. Visitors will now be able to purchase the “skip the line service” 7 days ahead of their park visit. This has been extended from just 2 days before their visit. – NEWS: Disney Announces CHANGES to Lightning Lane Premier Pass | the disney food blog A Main Street USA favorite is set to return soon. According to the Disneyland calendar, the Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe will reopen on March 22nd. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2025/02/20/date-revealed-for-the-reopening-of-this-iconic-disney-restaurant/ The Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival kicks off this weekend! Along with the delicious eats around the park and Downtown Disney, there are a ton of other fun activities like artist signings, culinary demonstrations, and live music. Check out the link in our show notes to see the schedule for all available offerings. – https://wdwnt.com/2025/02/full-schedule-of-artist-signings-revealed-for-2025-disney-california-adventure-food-wine-festival/ https://wdwnt.com/2025/02/full-schedule-revealed-for-culinary-demonstrations-at-the-2025-disney-california-adventure-food-wine-festival/ SnackChat: 90s Nite Foodie Guide – https://www.instagram.com/p/DGdq_T8xzxE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== TriviaLand: Spoilers: https://d23.com/featured-photo/ice-capades-character-costumes/ Discussion Topic: Walt Disney World Tour guide Les

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today! Shawn Whitman is the Vice President of Membership and Guest Experience at Zoo Atlanta. With a background in exercise physiology, Shawn's career journey took him from the fitness industry to the world of zoos and aquariums, where he now oversees membership, admissions, rides, guest experience, and more. His role is crucial in ensuring that Zoo Atlanta provides an engaging and educational experience while fostering strong connections with guests and members. In this interview, Shawn talks about saying yes to everything, exercising guest experience muscles, and looking through the lens of the guest. Saying Yes to Everything "When I was newer in my career, I was just so eager to learn anything and everything that I could." Shawn attributes much of his career growth to his willingness to say yes to new opportunities. From his early days at the YMCA, where he took on multiple roles, to his expansion of responsibilities at Zoo Atlanta, Shawn's mindset of embracing new challenges has led to tremendous professional development. He believes that saying yes opens doors to learning, collaboration, and career advancement. Even when opportunities pushed him outside his comfort zone, his openness to new experiences helped him build expertise across various departments. This philosophy has also shaped his approach to leadership, where he encourages his team to be adaptable and open to growth. Exercising Guest Experience Muscles "Just like with exercise, you have to be consistent in your approach to guest experience, continually refining and improving." Drawing from his background in exercise physiology, Shawn makes a compelling connection between fitness and guest experience. Just as muscles need to be trained consistently to stay strong, organizations must continuously refine their guest experience strategies. At Zoo Atlanta, guest feedback is reviewed regularly to identify opportunities for improvement. Shawn emphasizes the importance of tracking patterns in visitor feedback, much like tracking fitness progress, and adjusting strategies accordingly. Whether it's enhancing signage, improving wayfinding, or refining service training, his approach ensures that the guest experience remains dynamic and evolving. Looking Through the Lens of the Guest "I visit the zoo in incognito mode to see it exactly as a guest does." Shawn makes a habit of walking through Zoo Atlanta as an ordinary visitor, removing his name tag and observing interactions firsthand. This approach allows him to see potential pain points in the guest journey and make necessary adjustments. Whether it's noticing which areas guests tend to overlook, observing how they navigate the park, or hearing their feedback in an unfiltered way, this strategy provides invaluable insights. He also emphasizes the importance of knowing when to engage with guests and when to step back, ensuring that their experience is both immersive and uninterrupted. Shawn encourages his team to adopt this mindset, ensuring that every decision made prioritizes the visitor's perspective. By aligning guest experience improvements with the zoo's mission, his team fosters stronger connections between visitors and conservation efforts.   Shawn can be reached on LinkedIn. To learn more about Zoo Atlanta and its initiatives, visit zooatlanta.org or follow them on social media for updates on events, conservation efforts, and guest experiences.   This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team: Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today! Frank Nunez is the President of FrankNDesign. With a background in architecture and a passion for leveraging technology in design, Frank transitioned from traditional architecture to themed entertainment. His company, FrankNDesign, specializes in integrating digital modeling into themed design, helping to bridge the gap between creative vision and practical implementation. In this interview, Frank talks about themed design software, identifying issues before construction, and jillyfraz. Themed Design Software "Revit was going to be an arranged marriage. Either I was miserable my whole life, or I fell in love and enjoyed the arranged marriage after all." Frank discussed the evolution of architectural software and how the themed entertainment industry was lagging behind other fields in digital integration. He recognized that while video game designers and filmmakers had advanced tools to create immersive environments, architecture was still relying on rudimentary CAD systems. This led him to explore ways to bring digital intelligence into design, ultimately resulting in FrankNDesign's approach to using Revit for themed entertainment. By translating creative visions into 3D architectural models, FrankNDesign helps designers and architects collaborate more efficiently while maintaining artistic integrity. Identifying Issues Before Construction "Everybody knows that it's a lot cheaper to change it digitally by moving a mouse than it is by cutting a piece of rock work in the field." A major benefit of FrankNDesign's approach is the ability to identify potential clashes between themed elements and structural necessities before construction begins. By working directly within Revit, their models coexist with architectural designs, allowing designers to foresee problems such as ventilation placement, exit sign visibility, and rockwork integration. Frank emphasized how this process prevents costly and time-consuming field modifications by resolving these conflicts in a digital space first. The result is a more seamless, immersive environment that aligns with both guest expectations and operational needs. Jillyfraz "Our rock work, our jillyfraz, the pretty stuff that makes the— we are in charge of everything the guest sees." Frank introduced the term "jillyfraz" to describe the intricate themed elements that make up the visual storytelling of an environment. These are the immersive details—rockwork, signage, facades—that transport guests into another world. His team specializes in ensuring that these elements are both aesthetically accurate and structurally feasible, blending creativity with technical precision. By refining the details before construction begins, FrankNDesign helps maintain the integrity of themed experiences while ensuring practical functionality behind the scenes.   For those interested in learning more about FrankenDesign or getting in touch with Frank, visit https://frankndesign.com. The company is also active on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. Frank encourages industry professionals to reach out via their website's contact page or at info@frankendesign.com. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team: Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today!   Brian Kilpatrick is the Chief Operating Officer of Trinity Park Conservancy. With nearly four decades of experience in the attractions and hospitality industry, Brian has built a career that spans multiple disciplines, including food and beverage, retail, finance, and operations. His journey began at SeaWorld, where he spent 35 years, and later took him to leadership roles at Anakeesta and the Artis—Naples performing arts center. Now, at Trinity Park Conservancy, he is focused on creating accessible and sustainable green spaces for the Dallas community. In this interview, Brian talks about building green space intentionally, being a good listener, and getting to know the community. Building Green Space Intentionally "We are building Dallas's Central Park." Trinity Park Conservancy's mission is to transform the Trinity River into a connected and accessible green space for the Dallas community. Brian emphasizes the importance of designing Harold Simmons Park with clear intent, ensuring it serves as more than just a recreational area—it's a space for nature, conservation, and community gathering. The project spans 250 acres and is designed to unite Dallas through a series of scenic overlooks, improved pedestrian access, and a deep focus on sustainability. Drawing from his theme park background, Brian applies best practices in operational planning to ensure the park remains well-maintained and inviting for years to come. Being a Good Listener "I've learned over the years, and again, I think it's evolved into my style today, that you really have to be inclusive of what you're going to use from a knowledge base and experience base to make a decision." Throughout his career, Brian has adapted his leadership style to focus on active listening and inclusivity. Early in his career, he admits to being more assertive, but over time, he realized the power of truly understanding the perspectives of others before making decisions. At Trinity Park Conservancy, listening plays a central role in ensuring the project aligns with community needs. Whether it's gathering feedback from stakeholders or engaging in conversations with local residents, Brian stresses the importance of hearing different viewpoints to create a space that reflects the desires of those it serves. His ability to synthesize insights from various sources, including community members and industry peers, has been instrumental in shaping the vision for Harold Simmons Park. Getting to Know the Community "I can tell you without a doubt, if I walked you through the park plan today, the elements of the park are what the community told us they wanted." Brian recognizes that for Trinity Park Conservancy to be successful, it must reflect the unique needs of the people it serves. Understanding the historical and socioeconomic landscape of Dallas, he and his team have taken a grassroots approach to community engagement. By meeting with residents, attending local board meetings, and walking the grounds himself, Brian has built connections that help inform the park's development. The Conservancy's commitment to listening to the community has led to a park design that directly incorporates their input, ensuring it fosters inclusivity and unity. Brian's leadership ensures that Harold Simmons Park is not just a project but a shared vision with the people of Dallas.   Brian Kilpatrick can be reached via LinkedIn or by email at Brian.Kilpatrick@TPCDallas.org. To learn more about Trinity Park Conservancy and the development of Harold Simmons Park, visit www.TPCDallas.org. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team: Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan   To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

This week, the Haunted Mansion is back with a few new surprises, the exterior of the Mansion also has an update,The Year of the Snake has kicked off with a new confection, Magic Keys are back on sale, we finish our conversation with Ken Bruce, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: The original version of the Haunted Mansion opened this week, and with it a new bride has appeared! The new bride replaces the previous Constance Hatchaway bride at the end of the attic scene. The new bride appears to be floating above the ground, holding a candelabra instead of a hatchet, with the return of the beating heart effect. In addition to the new bride, her candelabra can now be seen in the endless hallway, and inside a crypt in the graveyard scene. She is joined by a one-eyed cat, similar to the one-eyed cat that was installed previously. Lighting and sound has been upgraded throughout the attraction as well. – https://www.micechat.com/407954-disneyland-update-new-bride-lunar-new-year-construction/ https://www.micechat.com/408138-news-disneyland-haunted-mansion-new-bride/ An area above the newly finished extended queue of the Haunted Mansion has finally been completed. The cemetery on the hill has been unveiled from the scrim blocking the area before. New vegetation and tombstones dot the hill and add some great themeing. – https://www.micechat.com/407954-disneyland-update-new-bride-lunar-new-year-construction/ The Year of the Snake has kicked off this Lunar New Year festivity at Disney California Adventure. In addition to all the food that we spoke about last week, there is also a new Year of the Snake display in the lobby of the Grand Californian Hotel. A Mickey-shaped snake was cooked up by the culinary team at the resort to honor the holiday. It is made using 40 pounds of white chocolate, 30 pounds of fondant, 10 pounds of crisped rice cereal, and 3 pounds of marshmallows. – https://www.micechat.com/407954-disneyland-update-new-bride-lunar-new-year-construction/ It is that time again when Magic Keys are back on sale for a limited time! By the time you hear this, they will already be on sale. We recommend that you act fast since the last time Magic Keys went on sale, sales were paused after less than 6 days. – https://www.micechat.com/407954-disneyland-update-new-bride-lunar-new-year-construction/ In Downtown Disney, the foundation has started to come together for the new, and hopefully final, location for Earl of Sandwich. No timeline has been posted on when construction will wrap up, but the sooner the better! – https://www.micechat.com/407954-disneyland-update-new-bride-lunar-new-year-construction/ This Friday, January 24th, is Anaheim Ducks Day at Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney. Inside the park, a cavalcade, appearances by select Anaheim Ducks players, themed games, and more will take place. In Downtown Disney, there will be an overtime fan zone with entertainment, activities, and photo ops. – https://www.micechat.com/407954-disneyland-update-new-bride-lunar-new-year-construction/ New dinner menu items have appeared at the Red Rose Taverne in Fantasyland. Three new “folds,” including a Plant-Based Veggie Fantasyland Fair Fold with cauliflower, quinoa, arugula, hash browns, cheese, and chili-lime aioli for $13, the Burger Fantasyland Fold with seasoned ground beef, hash browns, cheese, white cheese sauce, and burger sauce for $14.99, and a Spicy Chicken Fantasyland Fair Fold with four-chili spiced chicken patty, hash browns, cheese, white cheese sauce, and pickle aioli for $13.99. Also, a Salted Caramel Butter Cake Sundae with vanilla ice cream, salted caramel, and pretzel sticks is available for lunch and dinner for $8.49. – https://www.micechat.com/407954-disneyland-update-new-bride-lunar-new-year-construction/ Guests staying at the Pixar Place Hotel starting in February will have a change to their pool plans. The Pixar Place Pool deck will be under refurbishment starting February 3rd, with no end date given at this time. The pools at the Disneyland Hotel will be available for Pixar Place guest use during the closure. The pool deck will remain open for fireworks viewing on select nights. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2025/01/20/this-popular-disney-hotel-pool-is-closing-for-refurbishment/ SnackChat: Sweethearts Nite Food – https://www.instagram.com/p/DFGBfvZNfi1/?img_index=1 Discussion Topic: Two time Emmy Award winning animator and author Ken Bruce – https://tikiroom63.com https://www.instagram.com/tikiroom1963

This week, work could be starting soon on the Avengers Campus expansion, Disneyland helps families for Thanksgiving, more Haunted Mansion queue details, Pixar Place celebrates it's first holiday, the snack cart in the Grand Californian lobby has expanded, Downtown Disney shops opening, we finish our conversation with Kaye, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Plans have been submitted to the city of Anaheim for prep work to begin the expansion of Avengers Campus. The plan includes utilities, temporary trailers, and parking lots in the backstage area behind Avengers Campus. The expansion is NOT part of the DisneylandForward plan, according to the city. Construction should begin in 2025. – NEWS: Disney Submits Plans for NEW Park Expansion | the disney food blog Last week was Thanksgiving in the United States, and Walt Disney World and Disneyland helped those in need. In Anaheim, Disneyland teamed up with Northgate Gonzalez Markets to deliver groceries to 125 families, and $15,000 in holiday food vouchers to community nonprofits. The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Anaheim-Cypress, Anaheim Independica Family Resource Center, and Chrysalis Anaheim were all recipients of the vouchers. – Disney Serves Up Food for Families in Need this Thanksgiving – Disney Parks Blog We talked about the new Haunted Mansion queue last week on the podcast, and even more in the bonus episode that is out now for supporters, but Disney has posted even more about it on the Disney Parks Blog. The first part of the new queue was designed by Master Gracey, one of the mansion's ghosts. Further along is Madame Leota's garden. Finally, near the back of the queue is the mansion greenhouse, which belongs to all the mansion's ghosts. The new shop also has a name now – Somewhere Beyond. Before being a shop, the cariiage house was home to the mansion's head caretaker, but Madame Leota took over. – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/new-haunted-mansion-experiences-disneyland/ This holiday season is the first for the newly reimagined Pixar Place Hotel. There are multiple trees around the lobby, each themed to a different Disney/Pixar movie. In addition to the trees, there are also other holiday decorations around the guest areas, inside and out. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Holiday Humbugs, Haunted Happenings & the Pricing Paradox The snack cart in Disney's Grand Californian Hotel lobby has been expanded. New counters and cabinetry have been installed, making this look like a more permanent location that blends in with the Craftsmen style of the hotel. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Holiday Humbugs, Haunted Happenings & the Pricing Paradox One of the new shops has opened in Downtown Disney! D-Lander. which features high-end products and collaborations with different clothing and jewelry brands. Later this week, Avenges Reserve will open next door, featuring a selection of Marvel themed items. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Holiday Humbugs, Haunted Happenings & the Pricing Paradox Before the Walt Disney – A Magical Life shop even debuts to the public, there is already some controversy. The immediate family of Walt Disney himself are asking guests to write in to the company to get the animatronic Walt scrapped. Joanna Miller posted on Facebook that Walt never wanted to be an animatronic, and doing so is going against his wishes. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Holiday Humbugs, Haunted Happenings & the Pricing Paradox SnackChat: The Little Red Wagon Market House – https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland/market-house/menus/ TriviaLand: Discussion Topic: Kaye Malin – https://www.waltdisneymuseum.org/

Hello Travelers! Join host Michelle this week at the Grand Californian Hotel for an evening filled with holiday decor, gingerbread, and Christmas carols!   If you like what we do, consider joining our crew on Patreon. These wonderful people help us keep the microphones crisp and the servers warm at night. The best zero cost option for supporting us to give us a five star review on apple podcasts or wherever you listen.   Visit us at walkabouttheworld.com - find links to all the things - attraction episodes, Insta accounts of all the hosts, and even how to buy your own Walkabout shirt!   Look us up at @WalkaboutWDW on Instagram and drop us a note to say hi.   You can now also drop us at line at contact@walkabouttheworld.com. Say hi, tell us how you found us, and give us some suggestions on things you'd love to hear.   Walkabout The World is a weekly Disney podcast, always recorded on property at Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort with the simple goal of making you feel like you are in the middle of the magic.

What could possibly make your Disneyland trip any more wonderful? How about staying at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa?! In this episode, we talk about our magical stay at one of Disneyland's finest hotels with all its elegant offerings. Now proud members of the "Grand Club" having stayed at both Grands in California and Florida, we're all about this bougie life! Check out our enchanting extras: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - extra episodes, exclusive content, giveaways, and more!

This week, Halloween has ended, and the holidays are moving in, Tiana's Bayou Adventure tips, new dining package details, a veteran gets a surprise from Disney Cruise Line, the Holiday Foodie Guides are out, we talk to Bethany about Tiana's Bayou Adventure previews, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Halloween just passed us by and this week, preparations are well underway to get the resort ready for the Holiday season that starts on November 15th. New Orleans Square and Toon Town have been decked in holiday decorations for a bit now, with Frontierland, Fantasyland, and Main Street starting to get decorations now. The tree in Town Square should arrive in the next week to be ready for the kickoff. - https://www.micechat.com/401999-disneyland-update-holiday-hustle-price-pains-construction-gains/ With the Holiday season starting soon at the Disneyland Resort, the gingerbread display is back in the Grand Californian. This year, the display will be the Grand Californian Hotel itself with Chip and Dale in their holiday pajamas. - https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/disney-eats-foodie-guide-to-8-cant-miss-gingerbread-displays-2024/ We have the times for the holiday activities at Disneyland. The Christmas Fantasy Parade will run daily at 2:30pm and 5:30pm, the “it's a small world” lighting ceremony will be at 4:30pm daily, Believe..In Holiday Magic will be at 9:30pm daily, the Buena Vista Street tree lighting will be at 4:50pm daily, and World of Color - Season of Light will be nightly at 9pm and 10:15pm. - https://www.micechat.com/401999-disneyland-update-holiday-hustle-price-pains-construction-gains/ Of course with the start of the Holiday season, there is a load of new merchandise! - https://www.micechat.com/390049-disney-holiday-merchandise-preview-2024/ The Disney Parks Blog has some tips on how guests can prepare for experiencing Tiana's Bayou Adventure when it opens to the general public on November 15th. There will not be a standby queue, only virtual queues at 7am and noon, Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Lightning Lane Premiere Pass. Guests can join the virtual queue and use a Lightning Lane to get access to the attraction more than once in a single day. Tiana merchandise will be on hand at Louis' Critter Club and Ray's Berets. - https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/planning-tips-for-tianas-bayou-adventure-at-disneyland/ Details have been released about the Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo Nighttime Gathering. The dining package for the Fire of the Rising Moons fireworks in Galaxy's Edge will include a spot in the standing room only viewing area, a meal including fried cheeseburger croquette bites, apricot goat cheese, dragon fruit yogurt, cream puffs, unlimited fountain beverages, and specialty non-alcoholic beverages in a souvenir novelty cup. The package is $89 per guest, and are non-refundable. - https://www.micechat.com/401999-disneyland-update-holiday-hustle-price-pains-construction-gains/ Mickey and Minnie went trick or treating last week to deliver Halloween treats to kids in the hospital. Disney worked with the Starlight Children's Foundation, which gives themed hospital gear, care packages, and more to hospitals around the country. Disney VoluntEARS and Ambassadors created care packages including Disney toys, plush, books, and costumes. - https://www.micechat.com/401999-disneyland-update-holiday-hustle-price-pains-construction-gains/ A new category of merchandise has come to the parks on both coasts! To celebrate National Veterans and Military Families Month, a new collection including a t-short, spirit jersey, water bottle and baseball cap have arrived. The designs feature “Mickeyflage” which is Mickey camouflage. - https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/disney-recognizes-veterans-and-military-families-month-with-a-new-collection-of-military-inspired-merchandise/ A Veteran received quite the surprise at Disneyland recently. As part of the veterans celebration, Goodwill of Orange County's Tierney Center for Veterans Services, gifted a Disneyland trip to David Negreros to recognize the dedication and selflessness while serving in the Marine Corps. While at Disneyland, his family was chosen by Disney Cruise Line to sail on the Disney Treasure, the newest Disney Cruise Line ship. - https://disneyparksblog.com/dcl/disney-cruise-line-surprises-a-deserving-veteran-at-disneyland-park/ MousePlanet has done some sleuthing and have seen some clues on Disneyland's website what Disneyland After Dark events might be coming in 2025. Pride Nite, Star Wars Nite, and Sweethearts Nite are all listed as events guests can “look forward to.” Disney Channel Nite is listed as “concluded,” alluding to the event not coming back. - https://mouseplanet.com/disneyland-resort-update-for-november-4-2024/48943/ The dates for Grad Nites in 2025 has been released. The dates are in May and early June. For a complete list of the dates, check out the link in our show notes. - https://mouseplanet.com/disneyland-resort-update-for-november-4-2024/48943/ SnackChat: Holiday Foodie Guide - https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/disney-eats-foodie-guide-to-holidays-at-disneyland-resort-2024/ Festival of the Holidays Foodie Guide - https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/disney-eats-foodie-guide-to-disney-festival-of-holidays-2024-at-disneyland-resort/ Discussion Topic: Tiana's Bayou Adventure with Bethany

Virginia chats with Orlando locals Daina (@999happyhauntshere) and Kristina (@worldshowcaseadventures) who have been planning a trip to the West Coast to visit Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. While Kristina has been before, this will be Daina and her family's first time! The group of five has plans for Oogie Boogie Bash and Halloween Horror Nights, so Halloween will be a major theme for this trip. Tune in to hear all about it. Trip Dates: September 21-28, 2024 Pre-Trip Interview: recorded 9/19/24   Episode Specific Links: Follow Daina (@999happyhauntshere) and Kristina (@worldshowcaseadventures) on Instagram! Daina and Kristina used the travel services of Hannah Hood (@hannahlearningthemagic) with ConciEARS Travel.  Hotel plans for this trip:Grand Legacy at the Park (good neighbor hotel) Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Hilton Universal City Sunrise Yoga People mentioned in this episode:Jeanette - @pixiejeanette Hannah - @hannahlearningthemagic   Be Our Guest: Do you have an upcoming trip you'd like to share?  Submit your trip information here to be considered as a podcast guest.   Get in Touch: If you would like to reach out to Virginia for something other than a trip report guest submission (for that use the link above!), you may email whereilongtobepodcast@gmail.com.   Follow: Instagram: @whereilongtobepodcast Facebook: @whereilongtobepodcast Website: whereilongtobepodcast.com

Daina and Kristina are fresh off their trip to California and their first stop was to sit down with Virginia to spill all the details.  Their trip included Oogie Boogie Bash, taking part in sunrise yoga in the park before it opened, so many cold brew coffees, Halloween Horror Nights, visiting Super Nintendo World, and more! Trip Dates: September 21-28, 2024 Post Trip Interview: recorded 9/29/24   Episode Specific Links: Follow Daina (@999happyhauntshere) and Kristina (@worldshowcaseadventures) on Instagram! Daina and Kristina used the travel services of Hannah Hood (@hannahlearningthemagic) with ConciEARS Travel.  Hotels for this trip:Grand Legacy at the Park (good neighbor hotel) Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Hilton Universal City Disney+ Holiday Magic Special (the transformation of Disneyland's Haunted Mansion into Haunted Mansion Holiday begins at 21:31) Video: POV Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin Sunrise Yoga Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout: POV Monsters After Dark Version People mentioned in this episode:Jeanette - @pixiejeanette Kat - @notsowickedstepmom Tina - @the.alt.disney Becca - @beccs_in_the_parks Carra - @carramander   Be Our Guest: Do you have an upcoming trip you'd like to share?  Submit your trip information here to be considered as a podcast guest.   Get in Touch: If you would like to reach out to Virginia for something other than a trip report guest submission (for that use the link above!), you may email whereilongtobepodcast@gmail.com.   Follow: Instagram: @whereilongtobepodcast Facebook: @whereilongtobepodcast Website: whereilongtobepodcast.com

Send us a textRED Episode 294 Disneyland Inaugural Half Marathon Weekend Races with Emily O'KeefeSHOUT OUTSIf you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at info@runeatdrink.net or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message.Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement.  Because of you, we have kept the show going over the last two years, so thank you!  Thank you to Dean Gerber, Associate Producer of our show, and Josh Ozbirn, Executive Producer of the podcast, too!  RED Episode 294 Disneyland Inaugural Half Marathon Weekend Races with Emily O'KeefeThis week, we welcome back a member of the Runcation Nation, Emily O'Keefe, to recap the Inaugural Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend.  From the best airports and places to stay to can't-miss options for great food and beverages to celebrate in Disneyland, Emily has us covered!  Thanks, Emily!Patrons, we will have a bonus episode over on Patreon and Buy Me a Coffee as Emily stayed to chat with us after we wrapped up our recap!https://www.patreon.com/Runeatdrinkpodcast https://buymeacoffee.com/runeatdrinkpod Connect with Emily Emily's Instagram as a Travel Agent @emilyo_kttwtravelhttps://www.instagram.com/emilyo_kttwtravel?igsh=czd1d3h0YXY4cTFu Emily's Personal Instagram @ecofit13https://www.instagram.com/ecofit13?igsh=cG9tZHM5Z2tqZ2Vu Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekendhttps://www.rundisney.com/events/disneyland/disneyland-halloween-half-marathon-weekend/ Travel OptionsJohn Wayne Airporthttps://www.ocair.com/ LAX Airporthttps://www.flylax.com/ Disney'ss Grand Californian Hotel & Spahttps://disneyland.disney.go.com/hotels/grand-californian-hotel/ Emily'ss Food and Beverage Recommendations Goofy'ss Kitchen(Mickey Waffles and Mimosa Flights, Oh my!)https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland-hotel/goofys-kitchen/menus  Support the showTHAT'S A WRAP! Thank you for listening! Because of your support, we are in our eighth year of the podcast! Don't forget to follow us and tell us where to find you next on our website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Also, check out our store on the website and get some swag, thanks to Pure Creative Apparel. Thanks to www.PodcastMusic.com for providing the music for this episode, too!

This week, new locations announced for Downtown Disney, a Halloween tradition expands around the resort, Coco loses some musicians, The Evil Queen has moved in, new characters have arrived in Frontierland, we talk with Disney Author Jen Calonita, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Details of the new shopping space near the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage have been announced. Coming to the location is Avengers Reserve, a Marvel themed store featuring collectibles, apparel, accessories, toys, and comics. D-Lander Shop will be a boutique celebrating fashions for Disneyland fans with accessories, apparel, and jewelry. Elsewhere in Downtown Disney, Marceline's Confectionary is going to expand and receive a new name. Disney Wonderful World of Sweets. The location will offer all the same goodies as before, but also have freshly made caramel corn! – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/announcing-new-shops-eateries-coming-to-downtown-disney-district/ A Halloween tradition is expanding this year. “Pluto's Pumpkin Pursuit,” which was in Downtown Disney previously, has now expanded into Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. For $9.99, guests get a game board to hunt for pumpkins painted as different characters scattered around the resort. Return with the completed card and get a small Halloween sipper cup. If you would like a pin set of the cups, those can be purchased for $39.99. – https://www.micechat.com/396819-disneyland-update-critter-country-comeback-halloween-magic-labor-day-madness/ The reimagined Coco show in Disney California Adventure premiered last week, with some changes. The show has removed the live musicians, but kept the live singers. It is still a great show, but without the Mariachi Diva's providing live music. Another change has come to the schedule of the Viva Navidad street party. The show will be offered on select days only, not the daily performances as in previous years. – https://www.micechat.com/396819-disneyland-update-critter-country-comeback-halloween-magic-labor-day-madness/ The Evil Queen has moved into the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Dressed as the Old Hag, she is creating the poisoned apple from a large cauldron made completely out of food! She is also surrounded by spooky trees and a basket of apples. As usual, there are hidden Mickeys to be found – 13 in all. – https://www.micechat.com/396819-disneyland-update-critter-country-comeback-halloween-magic-labor-day-madness/ Two new characters from Encanto have arrived at Disneyland. Luisa and Isabela, the strong and floral sisters of Mirabel will be meeting and greeting in the El Zocalo Park near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. They will only be here for a limited time, so if you are interested in meeting them, act fast! – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/09/01/disney-announces-2-new-characters-are-coming-soon/ A large area of the west side of Disneyland has reopened. Critter Country, soon to be Bayou Country has reopened along with The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. The area has been repaved with themed walkway, updated lighting, and an extended section of exterior queue for Winnie the Pooh. – https://www.micechat.com/396819-disneyland-update-critter-country-comeback-halloween-magic-labor-day-madness/ November 15th is a busy day this year! Not only is it the day that Tiana's Bayou Adventure opens, but it is the start of the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort. New this year is Santa Claus is meeting and greeting at the Fantasyland Theatre, new outfits for Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, and Clarabel, and Chip and Dale's Ornament Trail in Downtown Disney. Beginning November 19th, “Goofy's Kitchen Celebrates the Holidays!” premieres at the Disneyland Hotel, and “Mickey's Holiday Pajama Party” at Storytellers Cafe. – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/2024-holiday-season-arrives-at-disneyland-resort-november-15/ A couple of updates from around the parks – the Jungle Cruise will undergo a $600,000 refurbishment to fix the tiger scene in the attraction that has been covered for a while now. The refurbishment could also address some other areas of the attraction that need work. There is also a lot of work going on around the Cozy Cones in Cars Land. There is no seating in the area while this work is being done. – https://www.micechat.com/396819-disneyland-update-critter-country-comeback-halloween-magic-labor-day-madness/ SnackChat: Kat Saka's Kettle and Ronto Roasters – https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland/kat-sakas-kettle/ https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland/ronto-roasters/ Discussion Topic: Author Jen Calonita https://www.tiktok.com/@jencalonitaofficial https://www.jencalonitaonline.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jencalonita/ DL Weekly listeners who buy Fairy Godmother (now through Oct 15th), and is in the US, can email Jen through her website and she will send them FG Disney book swag and a personalized bookplate!

This week, on The Mouse Tales Show, Dan is back from Disneyland and gives his post trip report. He talks about traveling to Disneyland, his stay at The Grand Californian Hotel, Downtown Disney, The Disneyland Hotel, his experiences at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Parks. At the end, he compares Disneyland with Walt Disney World and shares his thoughts on which resort he thinks is better, so sit back, relax and enjoy the show! ***** Come get your Disney fix with us! ***** E-mail the show at mousetalesshow@gmail.com. Say hello or give us some suggestions for the show, we love to interact with our listeners. ***** If you like the show, tell a friend and download us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast player. ***** Follow us on social media:  @MouseTalesShow Leave us a comment, we'd love to hear from you! ***** Leave us a 5 star review and comment on Apple Podcasts and we'll read your comment and mention you on the show. ***** Join our private facebook group for our listeners: The Mouse Tales Show ***** Thanks for listening and enjoy the show!  

Ready to indulge in the ultimate Disney retreat? This episode promises to whisk you away to the enchanting world of Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa. We recount our personal experiences in this Craftsman-style marvel and compare its laid-back vibe to its regal sister resort, the Grand Floridian. From the joy of Zach's latest Disney merch to our transition to a more casual, magic-filled lifestyle, we share how Disney vacations keep us grounded amidst the chaos of everyday life. Listen as we discuss the luxurious accommodations, seamless check-in process, and a tiny hiccup with our luggage delivery—all part of the unforgettable Disney experience.Our culinary journey at the Grand Californian is nothing short of spectacular, and we're here to spill the beans on everything from mouth-watering pizzas to the opulent dining at Napa Rose. We review their four-course $150 menu and the pricey yet enchanting Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures. And that's not all—get the scoop on the Tenaya Stone Spa's wellness offerings, the fitness center, and the exclusive park entrance that makes every Disney visit a breeze. Tune in for our honest thoughts and tips on making the most of your stay at this incredible resort!Please Check Out Our Links Below: Our Sponsor:www.mainstreettravelco.com Email Us:circleofparks@gmail.com Our Website:www.circleofparks.com Facebook:www.facebook.com/circleofparks Instagram:www.instagram.com/circleofparks X:www.x.com/circleofparks Products we use: Our equipmentMicrophones: https://amzn.to/3T61oD5 Recorder: https://amzn.to/3Ibl4iuBluetooth Adapter: https://amzn.to/4a2MIufMicrophone Stand: https://amzn.to/3wrOrdSGoPro: https://amzn.to/3uT6RUlCable Organization: https://amzn.to/49oQAFUhttps://amzn.to/4bKe7CJhttps://amzn.to/3T5T1HEHeadphones: https://amzn.to/42S5FgG   Our Favorite Disney Books:Buying Disney's World: https://amzn.to/3T6z57AThe Disney Story: https://amzn.to/3T8j0hHThe Wonders of Walt Disney World: https://amzn.to/3wrLVErMeet the Disney Brothers: https://amzn.to/42RqxodPresenting Disneyland: https://amzn.to/3uIUqdISend us a Text Message.Support the Show.

This week, Genie+ is leaving, the Country Bears are returning to Critter Country, D23 shopping announced, D23 Day at Disneyland details, some new retro Disneyland Hotel merch, we talk to Illustrator Casey Robin, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: The day this episode goes live, Genie+ will be gone in name only. Taking it's place is Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass. Otherwise, the system will continue to work as it has previously. – https://www.micechat.com/392182-disneyland-update-maintenance-boo-hoos-strike-in-view-country-bear-barbecue/ The Hungry Bear Restaurant in Critter Country closed with the rest of the land on July 8th. When it reopens, it will be the Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree. The location will feature the bear's favorite barbecue, with some of the greatest hits from the Country Bears playing in the dining area. The menu and track listing haven't been revealed yet, but we will let you know as soon as it does! – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/07/20/new-restaurant-announced-for-disneyland/#more-956320 https://www.micechat.com/392141-the-bears-are-back-hungry-bear-restaurant-gets-a-country-bear-makeover/ D23 the Official Disney Fan Club has announced the shopping experiences that will be available at the Expo this year. Returning favorites like Mickey's of Glendale, and Mickey's of Glendale Pin Store are returning. New options include The Walt Disney Company Store, with both a Main Store and Pin Store location, and the Disney Studio Store Hollywood. Mobile checkout and virtual queues will be available at select locations, be sure to check out the D23 app for details. – https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/how-to-shop-at-d23-the-ultimate-disney-fan-event/ A new experience is coming to Disneyland soon. D23 Day at Disneyland will have some limited-time offerings on August 8th. A Disney Jr. Let's Play Party will be held, and while supplies last a limited quantity of complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hats featuring the D23 Day at Disneyland logo will be handed to guests attending. A themed cavalcade will step off at 12:15pm with 23 characters and Disney Legends. There is so much more! Check out the link in our show notes for all the details. – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/dont-miss-limited-time-d23-offerings-at-disneyland-resort/ A never before seen character at the Disney parks will be making their debut July 26th! Deadpool will be in Avenger's Campus meeting and greeting guests. He will also debut in Disneyland Paris on July 24th. Disney Parks posted some fun photos previewing the character on their social media accounts. – https://www.facebook.com/share/p/BwMst571bcV8NvZU/ Fans of the retro style of the Disneyland Hotel can now sport it themselves! New merchandise is available at the Fantasia Shop at the Disneyland Hotel. Options include a ringer t-shirt, Spirit Jersey, Tervis Tumbler, and more. – https://wdwnt.com/2024/07/new-retro-disneyland-hotel-merchandise-2024/ Cold brew lovers unite! The Coffee House at the Disneyland Hotel has three new versions on their menu. There is an Irish Cream cold brew, a French Roast cold brew, and a Caramel Mudslide Nitro Cold Brew. Prices range from $6 to $7. – https://wdwnt.com/2024/07/disneyland-hotel-coffee-house-new-cold-brews/ Cast Members have overwhelmingly voted to strike at Disneyland. With 99% of the unionized cast members voted to strike due to unfair labor practices. Four unions representing 14,000 cast members at Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, Disney hotels, and Downtown Disney were able to vote. Negotiations with Disney will continue this week to see if a strike can be avoided. – https://www.micechat.com/392150-99-of-disneyland-workers-authorize-a-strike/ https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/disneyland-worker-explains-why-she-coworkers-ready-strike-happiest-place-earth/3466153/ The Hearthstone Lounge at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa has been refreshed. There is new paint in the location, which looks amazing, as well as an updated menu, with artisan pizza, sandwiches and salads, and a selection of appetizers and entrees. There is also breakfast served from 8am-10:30am. – https://www.micechat.com/392182-disneyland-update-maintenance-boo-hoos-strike-in-view-country-bear-barbecue/ More areas of Disneyland are being refreshed. There are walls up in the esplanade where work is being performed on the walkway and bricks. In another #saveteresastrees moment, the trees in these areas have been removed near the turnstiles. There are also walls up near Fantasyland Theater for what we expect is more paving work. – https://www.micechat.com/392182-disneyland-update-maintenance-boo-hoos-strike-in-view-country-bear-barbecue/ Guests supporting a local cause flooded the resort on Sunday. The CHOC Walk, which benefits the Children's Hospital of Orange County, brought in tens of thousands of walkers to raise money by walking a 5k path through both parks. Rare characters, entertainment, and the ability to go backstage were all added perks of this event. – https://www.micechat.com/392182-disneyland-update-maintenance-boo-hoos-strike-in-view-country-bear-barbecue/ SnackChat: Cafe Orleans – https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland/cafe-orleans Discussion Topic: Casey Robin illustrator and visual development artist

We were able to visit the Tenaya Stone Spa at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel on our last trip and wanted to share our experience and everything they have to offer so you can consider it for a future trip. Plus tons of news has dropped from new Princess & the Frog themed stores to details on the Season of the Force and we dissect it all. Save on your next trip through our friends at Get Away Today - https://www.getawaytoday.com/tickets/disneyland-resort?referrerid=7594 Subscribe and follow us for more! Facebook - @Disneyland4Ever Instagram - @disneylnd4evr Threads - @disneylnd4evr Like what you hear? Offer your support by buying us a churro: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/disneyland4ever

Trying to decide if it is worth the extra cost to stay at the Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place, or The Grand Californian Hotel and Spa?  Celina and Robyn share the benefits of staying on versus off property at the Disneyland Resort.  Celina will share the reasons why she loves staying at Disney-owned properties, and Robyn will share why she usually opts for off-property hotels. We discuss the perks and exclusive access that enhance the magic for on-site guests and share personal experiences that we have had over the years. Right now, our tools are just for Disneyland, but we hope to expand to other parks soon. Disney changes policies, prices, and shows often. Be sure to visit our website at Parkmagic.com or Disneyland's Website for more information. Park Magic is in no way affiliated with or endorsed by Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or Disney Enterprises, Inc. Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Mickey Mouse are all registered trademarks of Disney Enterprises, Inc. Any use of third-party names or trademarks is for identification purposes only and does not imply, nor is it intended to imply, any affiliation with, endorsement from, or business relationship with any third party, including with Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or Disney Enterprises, Inc.

Join your tour guides Kris Banas, Stan Solo, Holly Wood Crawford and Jason Thomason as they discuss the history, creation of, amenities, fun, overall greatness of and the unexpected magic the Disney's Grand Californian Hotel at Disneyland! Follow us on Facebook at Grand Circle Tour Magic Ticket Holders for live shows every Thursday night, on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/grandcircletourpodcast/  and YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@grandcircletour The Grand Circle Tour Podcast is in no way part of, endorsed or authorized by, or affiliated with the Walt Disney Company or its affiliates. As to Disney artwork/properties: © Disney. Disclosure | Privacy Policy

This week, recent permits give a glimpse of what is coming to the resort, early access changes, scaffolding is everywhere, the Haunted Mansion queue is unrecognizable, we talk about the unofficial events for 2024, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: There is a lot going on at the Disneyland Resort if recent permits are any indication. The biggest change will be new entrance turnstiles at both parks listed as “automatic guest entry gates, fixed manual gates, removable railings and new overhead shrouds.” These could be similar to the ones in Disneyland Paris. There is also a permit for replacing the pipes running to the geyser at Grizzly River Run. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/01/19/disney-files-permits-for-4-8-million-refurbishment-project/ https://www.micechat.com/377840-disneyland-update-new-gates-dragons-haunted-mansion-happenings/ A friendly reminder that early entry has changed for Disneyland as of January 20th. Guests will now have 30 minute early access to either Disneyland or Disney California Adventure depending on the day, and not have access to both on the same day, Also, not every attraction will be available during this time. Check the link in our show notes for all the details. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/01/17/disneylands-early-entry-policy-is-about-to-change/ The left side of the entrance to Disneyland is under a lot of scaffolding at the moment. The City Hall complex that includes the fire department and restrooms, along with the Lost and Found, lockers, and restrooms in the esplanade are all getting refurbished. They are not the only places in the parks as The Mark Twain, Astro Orbiter, Stage Door Cafe, Hyperion Theater, Grizzly Peak Facilities and Grizzly River Run, and finally the Grand Californian Hotel lobby are all seeing updates. – https://www.micechat.com/377840-disneyland-update-new-gates-dragons-haunted-mansion-happenings/ Construction on the Haunted Mansion extended queue is in full swing at Disneyland. The switchback behind the pet cemetery has been completely leveled to make way for updates. Work has yet to begin on the new carriage house at the exit of the attraction. – https://www.micechat.com/377840-disneyland-update-new-gates-dragons-haunted-mansion-happenings/ Some updates have been installed for the projections on Sleeping Beauty Castle. New projectors in larger decorative housings have been installed. The new housings are much larger than the previous ones and are more noticeable. – https://www.micechat.com/377840-disneyland-update-new-gates-dragons-haunted-mansion-happenings/ For the 2024 Lunar New Year celebration, there are some changes to the Sip and Savor passes. This year guests can get a scannable pass that they can use along with a 4-digit code at the marketplaces to use the pass. – https://www.laughingplace.com/w/disney-parks/disneyland-resort-scannable-sip-and-savor-lunar-new-year/ With Lunar New Year starting soon, there is a new meet and greet coming to the event. Meilin Lee and her mom, Ming Lee, from Turning Red will be greeting guests throughout the festival from January 23rd to February 18th. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/01/19/disney-announces-new-character-meet-and-greet-coming-soon/ https://dlnewstoday.com/2024/01/photos-video-new-turning-red-meilin-ming-lee-meet-and-greet-for-lunar-new-year-at-disney-california-adventure/ Characters and entertainment released for Sweethearts Night – https://dlnewstoday.com/2024/01/entertainment-and-characters-revealed-for-disneyland-after-dark-sweethearts-nite-2024/ The Disney Parks Blog has revealed some information on the changes coming to dining in Downtown Disney. The biggest news for us is the TWO STORY location for Earl of Sandwich coming in the future! Paseo and Centrico are adding a third option – Tiendita will open later this Spring. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/01/parkside-market-first-look-earl-of-sandwich-news-and-more-coming-to-downtown-disney-district/?CMP=SOC-DPFY24Q2wo0118240025A If you are a hockey fan, or just a fan of the 90's classic The Mighty Ducks, then you should head to Disneyland on February 22nd and 23rd. Anaheim Ducks Days features cavalcades, activities and entertainment like meet and greets, special food offerings, and of course merch! – https://www.micechat.com/377749-disneyland-anaheim-ducks-day/ With Valentine's Day coming up soon and Disneyland After Dark Sweethearts Nite coming, there is a new popcorn bucket to celebrate. The new Polka Dot Valentine Mickey-shaped Balloon Bucket features Mickey and Minnie kissing on the side of a pink bucket in the shape of a Mickey Balloon. You can pick one up yourself for just $18.75. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/01/21/disneys-new-popcorn-bucket-is-here-and-its-already-super-popular/ We all know that Imagineers are amazing, creative individuals. Recently, Lanny Smoot, a Disney Research Fellow and Imagineer was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Lanny is only the second person from The Walt Disney Company – the first being Walt Disney himself! – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/01/disney-imagineer-first-since-walt-to-receive-this-honor/ Snack Chat: Valentines Day foodie guide – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/01/disney-eats-foodie-guide-to-valentines-day-2024/ Discussion Topic: Non-Disney Events Gumball Rally – https://www.micechat.com/376686-gumball-rally-2024-details/ Villains Day – https://www.facebook.com/VillainsDay/ Dapper Days – https://dapperday.com/ Disneyana – https://disneyanafanclub.weebly.com/dfc_expo.html Nurses Day – https://nursesdayatthepark.com/ Bats Day – http://www.batsday.net/

Disney's Country Bear Jamboree has a much longer history than many people realize. What's next for the country bears in 2024, plus Disney Imagineering is slowly slipping further away from Walt Disney's approach to park theming. The Next Chapter in the Long History of Country Bear JamboreeCountry Bear Jamboree will be closing for a complete overhaul on January 27 and will re-open in the summer (no specific month yet) as the all-new Country Bear Musical Jamboree.As first announced at Destination D23 last summer, the Country Bears will return with a new show that pays tribute to the Opry style shows of Nashville. Disney promises quite a few Easter eggs throughout the show (including a familiar tune), as the bears sing new and reinterpreted Disney songs in different country music genres.Country Bear Jamboree has a long and interesting history. Walt Disney originally conceived the Country Bears concept in the 1960s to be part of the grandiose Mineral King Ski Resort project in California. This, of course, was never actually built. But the Country Bears idea was revived for Walt Disney World where it became one of the most popular marquee attractions when the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971.Editorial Rant: Current Disney Imagineers Continue to Stray Further from Walt Disney and Closer to UniversalOf interesting note in the Disney news story is that Disney continues to refer to this area -- including Tiana's Bayou Adventure -- as Frontierland. So, unfortunately, Disney Imagineers are ignoring trademark Disney Parks theming and slipping further towards a Universal type of fragmented-not-too-concerned-with-lands approach to design. I have often said that the current group of Imagineers is among the worst in Walt Disney World history, so hopefully at some point the sloppy Imagineering can be cleaned up and returned to earlier Disney standards.A lazy Imagineer is not a good Imagineer. So Bob Iger, please take a look at the lack of basic creative spark and ingenuity in your current Disney Imagineering Department.--Disneyland Lunar New Year Foodie GuideTop Food Picks from the 2024 Lunar New Year Event at Disney California AdventureFrom January 23 to February 18, the Lunar New Year Festival will turn Disney California Adventure Park into a vibrant destination with characters, entertainment, festive décor, merchandise and food. Whereas Walt Disney World and EPCOT basically phoned it in with a very uninspired food offering for the EPCOT Festival of the Arts, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure have knocked it out of the park with one of the best foodie guides we've seen in awhile.Lunar New Year Festival MarketplacesBamboo Blessings (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Strawberry Milk Tea Macaron: Strawberry buttercream with milk tea center (New) Mickey-shaped Hot Dog Bun: Brioche-style Mickey-shaped bun stuffed with hot dog and finished with sesame seeds and scallionsTaro Vietnamese-style Iced Coffee: Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Co. Vietnamese-style Coffee, cocoa powder, and condensed milk garnished with a taro chocolate sweet cream (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) Lunar New Year Punch: Mango nectar, tangerine and grapefruit juices, and banana and coconut syrups garnished with mango jellies (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) Lunar Punch Cocktail: Coconut rum, mango nectar, tangerine and grapefruit juices, and banana and coconut syrups garnished with a purple orchid (New) Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)Longevity Noodle Co. (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Shrimp Lo Mein Noodles: Pan-fried noodles, sautéed shrimp garnished with green onions (New) Garlic Noodles: Long noodles tossed in zesty garlic butter with parmesanDragon Cocktail: Dragonberry rum, white rum, lychee nectar, dragon fruit and Chinese five-spice syrups, lime juice, and house-made coriander tea garnished with a dried dragon fruit wheelMickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts)Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)Lucky 8 Lantern (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Quesabirria Eggroll with guajillo pepper consoméMandarin Orange Mousse Cake: Layers of mandarin mousse with vanilla cake and clementine compote finished with white chocolate crunch balls and a tangerine glazeHibiscus Apple Soju-rita: Blanco tequila, grapefruit liqueur, soju, green apple and hibiscus syrups, house-made hibiscus tea, and lemon juice garnished with a dried apple chip (New) Mango Melon Cocktail: Overproof rum, baijiu, allspice liqueur, mango nectar, rock melon syrup, and lime juice topped with grapefruit soda and garnished with a lime wheel (New) Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts)Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)Prosperity Bao & Buns (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Kung Pao Bao with chicken, toasted peanuts, and scallions (New)BBQ Pork Bun with kimchi mayo and garlic chile crunch (New) Brewery X Grapefruit Panda Pool Party Bamboo Rice Lager (New) > Mike's PickHarland Brewing Co. Tangerine Dragon Fruit Hefeweizen (New) Stereo Brewing Co. Jasmine Tea Lager (New) Eagle Rock Brewery Lychee IPA (New) Dragon Beer Flight (New) Tsingtao with Frozen Mango Beer FoamMickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts)Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts)Red Dragon Spice Traders (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Spicy Fried Rice with tofu and crispy peas (New) Red Spice Fried Chicken Bites: Fried chicken chicharrones in spicy red chile saucePeach Basil Collins: Gin, ginger liqueur, white peach purée, lemon juice, and house-made Thai basil syrup topped with Topo Chico and garnished with a purple pansy (New) Guava Whiskey Cocktail: Whiskey, ginger liqueur, guava nectar, coconut cream, and lime juice garnished with a lime wheelMickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts)Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply)Wrapped with Love (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Fried Lemongrass Chicken Dumplings with plum sauce (New) Steamed Pork & Vegetable Dumplings with black garlic sauce (New) Yuja-Pineapple Cooler: Pineapple juice, yuja purée, rice milk, and condensed milk garnished with a cherry and coconut foam (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) Raspberry Oat Milk Tea: Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Co. Ceylon Tea, raspberry and demerara syrups, and oat milk garnished with skewered raspberries (Non-alcoholic beverage)Mickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (New) (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts)Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply) Throughout Disney California Adventure Park Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta Bulgogi Pizza: Marinated beef and spicy corn, cheese sauce topped with green onion (Available by slice or whole pie) (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29) > Mike's PickMilk Tea Taro Cheesecake: Milk tea cheesecake with a taro mousse (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Cappuccino Cart (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)Dalgona Coffee Bundt Cake: filled with sweet milk and topped with Dalgona foamGreen Tea Horchata (Non-alcoholic beverage)Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)Blood Orange Cocktail: Baijiu, orange liquor, yuja purée and blood orange syrup, with a spicy sugar rimLamplight Lounge (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Spicy Dandan Noodles: Crispy pork belly and noodles in spicy Szechuan sauce with carrots, cucumber and crispy shallots garnished with green onions and micro cilantro (New) > Mike's PickMilk Tea and Taro Donuts: Warm, fluffy donuts dipped in milk tea, drizzled with taro icing, garnished with boba with milk tea dipping sauce (New) Lunar New Year Cocktail: Han Soju, Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur, dragon fruit syrup, lemon juice, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, and firewater bitters with mint garnish (New) > Mike's PickLamplight Lounge - Boardwalk Dining (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Kung Pao Bao: Kung pao-glazed crispy pork belly, soft bao bun, red peppers, toasted peanuts, and green onionsLunar New Year Cocktail: Han Soju, Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur, dragon fruit syrup, lemon juice, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, and firewater bitters with mint garnish (New) Paradise Garden Grill (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available) Bulgogi Fried Rice with kimchi, egg, pickled cucumber, green onion, and sesame seeds (New) (Plant-based) Whole Fish with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and black vinegar and soy sauce with sugar, garlic, and red Fresno chile (Served family-style for sharing for two) (New) Shrimp Lo Mein: Lo mein noodles tossed with shrimp, mushrooms, cabbage, corn, and bell pepper (New) Pork Banh Mi Sandwich: Grilled pork belly with pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, and jalapeño with spicy mayoKorean-style BBQ Chicken served with steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled cucumberKorean-style Chicken: Marinated chicken with steamed rice and broccoli (Disney Check Kids Meal) Mango Pudding with a hint of coconut milk topped with mango and a chocolate décorTiger Milk Boba Tea with Brown Sugar Boba (Non-alcoholic beverage)Yuja Makgeolli Cocktail: Citrus-flavored rice wine, soju, and a splash of SpriteFour Sons Brewing Lucky Dragon IPAPym Test Kitchen (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available)Almond Cold Brew: Almond cold brew, almond milk, and red foam with blue and gold sugar (Non-alcoholic) (New)Sonoma Terrace (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available) Gochugaru Shrimp Roll: Gochugaru-marinated shrimp on a potato roll with kimchi slaw, gochujang mayonnaise, spicy pickle spear (New)Studio Catering Co. and Hollywood Lounge (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18; mobile order available at Studio Catering Co. only) Char Siu-style Ribs: Char siu-braised pork ribs with Asian-inspired glaze topped with roasted peanuts and scallions (New) > Mike's PickTerran Treats (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Strawberry Green Tea Churro: Green tea-cinnamon sugar dusted churro with strawberry cream sauce topped with freeze-dried strawberries (New) Select Outdoor Vending Carts (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Chicken Bao: Steamed bao with chicken, butternut squash, and makrut lime served with Vietnamese sweet tangy dipping sauceBaked Brown Sugar Nian Gao: Baked sticky rice cake topped with brown sugar (New)Char Siu Turkey Leg (New) Cantaritos Mandarin (New) Harland Brewing Co. Lunar Maps Hazy IPA (New)Churros near Goofy's Sky School (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Almond Cookie Churro: Coated in almond cookie crumble and topped with roasted almonds and almond icingChurros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Orange-Ginger Churro: Churro rolled in ginger sugar topped with orange sauce, candied ginger, and black and white sesame seeds (New)Willie's Churros (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Dragon Fruit Churro: Churro rolled in a coconut-dragon fruit sugar topped with a dragon fruit icing (New) Novelties Available Across Disneyland Resort  Lunar New Year Stainless Steel Tumbler: Includes choice of fountain beverage at time of purchase (Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations: At Disney California Adventure park: Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, Cappuccino Cart, Clarabelle's Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, select outdoor vending carts, Paradise Garden Grill, Smokejumpers Grill, Studio Catering Co.Lotus Flower Glow Cube (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations: At Disney California Adventure park: Bayside Brews, Cappuccino Cart, Clarabelle's Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Hollywood Lounge, select outdoor vending carts, Paradise Garden GrillAt Disneyland park: Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, Little Red Wagon, and Refreshment CornerMickey-shaped Macaron Straw Clip (Available starting Jan. 23; limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations: At Disney California Adventure park: Corn Dog Castle, Mortimers Market, Outdoor Vending Carts, Paradise Garden Grill, Schmoozies!, select outdoor vending, Smokejumpers GrillHotels of the Disneyland Resort Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa GCH Craftsman Bar (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29) Pork Dandan Noodles: Crispy pork with egg noodles, sweet chili sauce, peanuts, and scallions (New) Moon Dragon: Premium soju, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Hennessy V.S Cognac, cherry juice, plum bitters, and Luxardo Maraschino Cherries (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29) > Mike's PickGCH Craftsman Grill (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Pork Dandan Noodles: Crispy pork with egg noodles, sweet chili sauce, peanuts, and scallions (New) Grand Californian Great Hall Cart (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Tea Pot and Macarons (New) Assorted Macarons (New) Lunar New Year Cookie: Decorated sugar cookie (New) Lunar New Year Assorted Pretzel Rod Sticks (New) Lunar New Year Crisped Rice Treat (New)Hearthstone Lounge  Bean Paste Tang Yuan Dumplings and Meatball Soup with rice balls (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Spicy Shrimp with Steamed Rice (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Moon Dragon: Premium soju, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Hennessy V.S Cognac, cherry juice, plum bitters, and Luxardo Maraschino Cherries (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29) Storytellers CafePork Dandan Noodles: Crispy pork with egg noodles, sweet chili sauce, peanuts, and scallions (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Moon Dragon: Premium soju, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Hennessy V.S Cognac, cherry juice, plum bitters, and Luxardo Maraschino Cherries (New) (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 29)Disneyland Hotel Goofy's Kitchen (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Shrimp Stir Fry with noodles, garlic, and ginger (New) Pork Bao Bun (New) Chicken Dumpling Soup (New) Garlic Rice with soy sauce and scallions (New) (Plant-based)Downtown Disney District Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Lucky Dragon: Vodka, lemon juice, egg white, and dragon fruit syrup (New) Kayla's Cake (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Milk Tea Mochi Egg Tart: Milk tea infused cream topped with mochi on a caramelized custard tart (New) Korean Injeolmi Macarons: Sweet Injeolmi buttercream filling finished with roasted soybean powder (New) Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Banh Mi Pizza: Neapolitan dough, mozzarella cheese, marinated pork, pickled carrot and daikon radish, raw jalapeño, cilantro, drizzles of Vietnamese mayo and chili sauce (New) > Mike's PickDragon Eye Punch Mocktail: Beet juice, strawberry, grenadine, blood orange syrups, and dragon eye fruit (Non-alcoholic beverage)Dragon's Breath Cocktail: Whiskey, elderflower liqueur, triple sec, and simple syrup garnished with a tangerine peel and a smoke top finish (New) > Mike's PickSplitsville Luxury Lanes (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Walnut Shrimp: Lightly fried shrimp with a crispy texture and tossed in a sweet lemon glaze and served with sautéed broccoli on a bed of rice and garnished with candied walnuts and scallions (New)Tortilla Jo's (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Sweet and Sour Ribs: Sweet and sour ribs served with white rice and Napa cabbage slaw (New) Dragontail Mocktail: Non-alcoholic organic margarita mix, pineapple juice, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine garnished with a paper dragon flag with two cherries and an orange wedge (Non-alcoholic) (New) Breathing Fire Cocktail: Peach schnapps, peppermint schnapps, melon liqueur, orange juice, pineapple, and a splash of grenadine garnished with three cherries (New) Wetzel's Pretzels (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Lucky Red Envelope with Special Wetzel's Pretzels Offering: Receive a lucky red envelope with a special in-app offer with any purchase (Available while supplies last)Churros near Goofy's Sky School (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)Almond Cookie Churro: Coated in almond cookie crumble and topped with roasted almonds and almond icingChurros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail (Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) Orange-Ginger Churro: Churro rolled in ginger sugar topped with orange sauce, candied ginger, and black and white sesame seeds (New)--Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main StreetPlease be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Jamendo

That's right, we're talking about the Grand Californian this week! From restaurants to pools and merch, we give you our thoughts on Anaheim's first 4-Star hotel and whether we feel it's worth the hefty price tag. Plus Disneyland just released their calendar for the entire year of 2024 and we break down the many seasonal celebrations coming up. Save on your next trip through our friends at Get Away Today - https://www.getawaytoday.com/tickets/disneyland-resort?referrerid=7594 Subscribe and follow us for more! Facebook - @Disneyland4Ever Instagram - @disneylnd4evr Threads - @disneylnd4evr Like what you hear? Offer your support by buying us a churro: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/disneyland4ever

Join us for an enchanting episode  where we explore the magic and allure of the three onsite Disneyland properties: The Disneyland Hotel, Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, and Disney's Pixar Place Hotel. This episode is perfect for anyone planning their next Disneyland vacation or dreaming about a magical getaway. We start our journey at... The post Disneyland Hotels appeared first on My Mickey Podcast.

Today I review my stay at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. I stayed at a dvc deluxe studio with my points during the Christmas holiday season. Is it worth it? How does it compare to the new Disneyland Hotel Villas? How does it compare to the Walt Disney World resorts? Listen and find out :) #Grandcalifornian #dvc #disneyvacationclub #disneyland #californiaadventure

The trend continues as guests of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party will find a wide range of food and drink options like never before. We share our top picks, plus a sneak peak at the Disney World hotel gingerbread displays, including a brand new one for 2023!Top Picks for Food and Drink at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2023Foodie Guide to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2023Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is back at Magic Kingdom Park from November 9, 2023 through January 1, 2024. This year there's an all-new lineup of food and drinks to put you in the Christmas holiday spirit. You can't eat them all, so we highlight our top picks for must-try Christmas Party food and drink.Auntie Gravity's Galactic Goodies Reindeer Chow Sundae: Chocolate soft-serve, pretzels, cereal, M&M's, and hot fudge (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)  Lump of Coal in your Stocking: Cookies 'n cream milk shake with whipped cream, cookies 'n cream crumbles, and chocolate doughnut hole (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Casey's CornerCandy Cane Tart: Chocolate tart filled with peppermint ganache and topped with festive merengue (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Cool Ship Magic Holiday Tree: Coconut, pecans, and M&M's on a graham cracker crust (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe Holiday Pot Roast Melt: Slow-cooked beef on thick toast with cheddar and provolone cheese and beef gravy (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) > Mike's Pick Holiday Turkey Burger: Turkey burger topped with traditional stuffing, provolone cheese, and cranberry chutney on a brioche bun (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Christmas Cookie Cake: Christmas cookie cake roll with buttercream and topped with holiday sprinkles (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) The Friar's Nook Holiday Ham Fried Pie: Flaky pastry with baked ham, candied sweet potatoes, and spiced pecans served with pineapple glaze (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) > Mike's Pick Italian Beef Tots: Tots covered in slow-cooked beef, cheese curds, zesty giardiniera, and pot roast gravy (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Peppermint Snowman: Chocolate brownie topped with cookies 'n cream peppermint mousse (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Winter Milk Shake: Creamy coconut milk shake with whipped cream, toasted coconut, cinnamon, and crisp pearls (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Golden Oak Outpost Orange Gingerbread Shake: Orange cream slushy with gingerbread cookie crumbles and whipped cream, gingerbread spice (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Gingerbread Cake layered with cream cheese frosting and dulce de leche ganache topped with a gingerbread man chocolate piece (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) > Mike's Pick Main Street Bakery  Minnie-shaped Cinnamon Roll: topped with red icing, holiday sprinkles, and a chocolate bow (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)  Letter To Santa: Flourless chocolate cake, hot cocoa mousse, and marshmallows topped with chocolate pieces (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe Chicken Tamale served "Christmas-style" with mild red chile and green chile-pumpkin seed sauces, cilantro rice, pinto beans, and queso fresco (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Chocolate Eggnog Reindeer: Chocolate tart topped with eggnog mousse and chocolate antlers (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Orange-Cranberry Pineapple Punch with a hint of "smoke" from the fireplace (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) > Mike's Pick Plaza Ice Cream Parlor Peppermint Brownie Sundae: Peppermint ice cream, hot fudge and candy cane sprinkles served on a brownie (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours) Sleepy Hollow Refreshments Holiday Waffle Sundae: House-made red velvet waffle topped with M&M's, peppermint ice cream, and hot fudge (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Milk and Cookies for Santa: Brown sugar cookie cake with chocolate chip cookie dough mousse, milk mousse, and chocolate chip cookies (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Storybook TreatsSugar Plum Sundae: Sugar plum soft-serve atop sugar cookie crumbs and topped with whipped cream, crisp pearls, and cotton candy (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Sunshine Tree Terrace Santa's Belt Buckle: Pistachio mousse with a dark chocolate truffle center and a chocolate buckle (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party only) Cranberry Citrus Float with Orange-Vanilla Soft-serve Twist: with Sprite Winter Spiced Cranberry and fruity boba pearls (Non-alcoholic) (New) (MVMCP and regular park hours)  Outdoor Vending Locations Near Cinderella Castle  Red Velvet Wreath: Doughnut topped with buttercream and holiday sprinkles (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours) Hot Cocoa Churro: Churro rolled in hot cocoa powder and topped with marshmallows and peppermint candy pieces (New) (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)  -- Gingerbread Displays at Walt Disney World 2023 Back for its 24th year is the Disney's Grand Floridian life-sized Gingerbread House, from November 8, 2023 to January 1, 2024.Grand Floridian Gingerbread Menu Freshly baked Gingerbread Mickeys and Shingles, Stollen Bread, Brownie Christmas Tree, and Gingersnap Cookies House-made Gingerbread Ornaments and Gingerbread Houses Assorted Gingerbread Cookie Bags, Marshmallow Pops, and Milk Chocolate Pecan Fudge Grand Floridian Combo Box featuring assorted fan favorite treats, including the cookies n' cream Christmas Tree, exclusive to this box Plant-based, no sugar added, and gluten-friendly options Yacht Club Resort Gingerbread New this year is the Lighthouse at Disney's Yacht Club Resort. This creation was made from the actual blueprints from the lighthouse located outside the resort along Crescent Lake. Treats sold at the Holiday Pop Up Shop include the new Lighthouse Fudge, which is a nod to this new offering.Beach Club Resort Gingerbread At Disney's Beach Club Resort the classic Holiday Carousel gingerbread display is back. It been at the resort for 22 years. This year's gingerbread offering is inspired by Ducktales, with the horses themed after Donald Duck and his nephews, Huey, Duey, and Louie. There are 22 hidden Mickeys in the display.Beach Club Gingerbread Menu Signature Stollen Bread Lighthouse Fudge Mickey Snowman Pop Crispy Rice Treat Peppermint Bark Gingerbread Shingle Hot Chocolate Flight Hot Chocolate Disney's BoardWalk InnAt Disney's BoardWalk Inn from November 17 to December 27 there's a mini version of favorite spots found on the BoardWalk. BoardWalk Gingerbread Menu Mickey and Minnie Sugar Cookies Mickey Caramel Corn Cookie Christmas Tree Pop Peppermint Bark Gingerbread Shingles Gluten/ Wheat-Friendly and Plant-based Gingerbread Shingles Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge  In the Jambo House lobby from November 22 to December 31, the tradition continues with a life-size baby gingerbread giraffe and baby zebra. The giraffe stands nearly 7 feet tall. Here you can buy treats including a Gingeraffe Cookie, Hot Cocoa Flight, and beer, wine, and cocktails.Disney's Contemporary Resort The Contemporary gingerbread display is back for its 12th year. It is on the fourth floor (same floor as the shops and Chef Mickey's) from November 10 to January 6, 2024. This year's version is Mary Blair-inspired with a 100th Celebration-themed castle display. It stands over 17 feet tall. If you like to search for Hidden Mickeys, then here be sure to search for the 12 hidden five-legged goats.Contemporary Gingerbread Menu Gingerbread Castle Brick Paint Your Own Cookie Bo Hot Chocolate Caramel Fudge Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Pistachio Linzer Cookie 5-Legged Goat Cookie Gluten/Wheat Friendly Gingerbread Cookie Gingerbread Latte Cupcake Christmas Tree Butter Cookie Frozen Hot Chocolate (Also available with Peppermint Schnapps)  Frozen Apple Cider (Also available with Fireball Cinnamon Whisky floater) Finally, there's one gingerbread display of note at The American Adventure in EPCOT. From November 24 to December 30, this display recreates classic American monuments with gingerbread versions of the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, The American Adventure building with Regal Eagle Smokehouse and even a Festival Marketplace. There are six Hidden Mickeys here. --Foodie Guide to Holidays at the Disneyland Resort 2023Disneyland is kicking off its holiday festivities from November 10, 2023 through Januar 7, 2024 and they're not letting Walt Disney World steal the show when it comes to festive food and drinks. The complete Disneyland Christmas Holiday foodie guide, including our top picks from what's new.Disneyland Park  Alien Pizza Planet (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)Santa Alien Macaron: macaron filled with marshmallow cream and chocolate ganacheBengal Barbecue (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)  Jingle Julep: Frozen white-hot chocolate, cookie butter drizzle, cocoa-dusted, finished with a pretzel rodBlue Bayou Restaurant (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Classic Christmas Chocolate Decadence Tart: Dark chocolate coffee custard with a chocolate cookie crust, and holiday decorations (New)  Galactic Grill (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)   Hyperdrive Holiday Chicken Sandwich: Fried chicken sandwich with cranberry-orange marmalade BBQ sauce, provolone, onion rings, and arugula on a toasted brioche bun (New) Orange Cranberry Parfait: Orange-cranberry cake with cream cheese icing topped with an orange cream-filled cream puff, dried cranberries, and holiday sprinkles Galactic Holiday Punch: Sprite and pomegranate, cranberry, and orange juices garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds, cranberries, orange slice, and a rosemary sprig (Non-alcoholic) Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available) Peppermint Sundae: Two scoops of peppermint ice cream, whipped cream, crushed peppermint, and crème-filled cookies served in a sprinkle-topped waffle bowl​ (New) Hungry Bear Restaurant (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available) BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger: 1/3 lb. Angus chuck patty, red pepper cheese sauce, onion rings, bacon, and BBQ sauce Teddi Barra Holiday Funnel Cake: Sweet espresso syrup and mocha mascarpone cream dusted with cocoa powder and topped with mascarpone gelato and lady finger cookies​ (New) Chai-spiced Pumpkin Iced Tea: Iced tea, chai tea-flavored syrup, pumpkin purée cream, and pumpkin candy crystals (Non-alcoholic beverage) Blood Orange Lemonade (Non-alcoholic) (Also available with Hungry Bear Restaurant Mason Jar) (New)  Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (Mobile order available)  Thanks-mas Sandwich: Oven-roasted turkey breast, gravy, stuffing, and cranberry sauce on rustic bread served with house-made chips​ (Nov. 10 through 23)  Turkey Pot Pie Soup: Oven-roasted turkey breast, potatoes, peas and carrots topped with pie crust pieces ​(Nov. 10 through 23)  Ham and Pineapple Toasted Sandwich: Oven roasted ham, pineapple, and Swiss cheese on rustic bread served with chips​ (Nov. 24 through Jan. 9)  Chicken and Bacon Corn Chowder: Creamy corn chowder with chicken, bacon, and potatoes (New) (Nov. 24 through Jan. 9)  Mickey Ornament Macaron: Pearl-dusted white macaron shells filled with chocolate ganache and peppermint mousse (New) (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)  Chocolate Cake Snow Globe: Layers of chocolate sponge cake, truffle mousse, and chocolate glaze topped with a buttercream tree, red and white pearls, a chocolate star, and snow powder (New) (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)  Snowman Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: cream cheese icing, milk chocolate nougatine arms and snowman chocolate decoration (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9) Mickey Gingerbread: Soft gingerbread Mickey-shaped cookie (Limit five per person, per transaction) (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9) Market House (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Mickey Gingerbread: Soft gingerbread Mickey-shaped cookie (Limit five per person, per transaction) Mint Julep Bar (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available)  Mickey-shaped Candy Cane Beignets dusted with peppermint powdered sugar (In packs of three or six)  Assorted Mickey-shaped Beignets: A mix of Mickey-shaped and seasonal beignets (In packs of six) (New) Chocolate Dipping Sauce Huckleberry Mint Julep: A refreshing blend of huckleberry and mint with a hint of lime garnished with fresh mint and blueberry (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) Plaza Inn  Chocolate Mint Shortcake: Chocolate mint sponge cake, cookie crumbles, whipped topping, and chocolate drizzle (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) (New) Holiday Cake: Devil's food cake with swirled white chocolate mousse filling, buttercream frosting, and holiday sprinkles (Dec. 1 through Jan. 9) Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante (Dec. 22 through 25) Holiday Special: Chicken tinga, beef barbacoa, cheese tamale, Spanish rice, beans, and bolillo (New)  Red Rose Taverne (Mobile order available)  Holiday Grey Stuff: with holiday sprinkles and a white chocolate star (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)  Mickey-shaped Gingerbread: Soft gingerbread Mickey-shaped cookie with sprinkles (Available Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)  Mocha Peppermint Taverne Cold Brew: Peppermint cold brew with chocolate peppermint topper and crushed peppermint (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9) > Mike's Pick Holiday Punch: Pomegranate, lemonade, and ginger beer with spiced coconut topper (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9) River Belle Terrace (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)  Sticky Toffee Pudding Jar: Sticky toffee pudding infused with house-made pudding (New) Cranberry Apple Tart: topped with streusel with caramel sauce (New) (Plant-based)  Royal Street Veranda (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available) Cookies and Cream Fritters dusted with chocolate cookie sugar and served with a sweet cream-cheese dipping sauce (New) Sweet Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce (New) Stage Door Café (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available) Holiday Wreath Funnel Cake: with apple cider drizzle, fresh baked apples, whipped topping, and holiday sprinkles (New) The Tropical Hideaway (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Holiday DOLE Whip Sundae: DOLE Whip strawberry and lime, gummy topper, and seasonal sprinkles (New) > Mike's Pick Troubadour Tavern (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)Celebration Potato: Pulled smoked turkey, whipped cream cheese, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, and fried onions (New) Churros at small world Promenade and Casey Jr. Circus Train (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9) Gingerbread Churro: Churro rolled in gingerbread sugar (New) Butterscotch Dipping Sauce (New) Churros near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Chestnut Churro: Classic churro with chestnut sauce drizzle and crushed meringue topping (New) Churros near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)  Chocolate Sugar Churro: Churro tossed in a chocolate sugar mix served with a side of peppermint chocolate ganache (New) Peppermint Ganache Dipping Sauce: Chocolate ganache sauce with peppermint and white chocolate bits (New) Churros near Haunted Mansion (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)  Sugar Plum Churro: Churro rolled in tart raspberry sugar (New) Marshmallow Dipping Sauce (New) Churros near Sleeping Beauty Castle and Town Square (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)  Mint Chip Churro: Churro rolled in chocolate cookie dust and mint sugar Mint-Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Marshmallow creme infused with mint and topped with crushed chocolate cookies Pretzels at small world Promenade (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)Butterscotch Dipping Sauce (New) Popcorn near Haunted Mansion (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Christmastime Popcorn: Freshly popped buttered popcorn served with M&M's and mini marshmallows ​(New)  Pretzels near Star Tours – The Adventures Continue (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9) Toffee Pretzel: Cream cheese-filled pretzel sprinkled with toffee sugarCandy Palace and Candy Kitchen and Pooh Corner (Available Nov. 3 through Jan. 1; mobile order available)  Mickey Christmas Lights Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed in green, white chocolate and with black dark chocolate and M&M's lights (New)  Holiday Mickey Cake Pop: Chocolate cake pop dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red sanding sugar and green M&M'S chocolate candies (New)  Holiday Tree Cereal Treat: Tree-shaped cereal treat dipped in green, white chocolate and decorated with white chocolate, white sanding sugar, and a yellow, chocolate Mickey star (New)  Peppermint Patties: Mixture of fondant sugar, powder sugar, and peppermint flavoring dipped in dark chocolate (New) (Only available at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen) Peppermint Bark: Peppermint-flavored dark chocolate and white chocolate sprinkled with Christmas sprinkles and marshmallows (New) (Only available at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen) Minnie Santa Hat Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed in milk chocolate, rolled in red sanding sugar, and embellished with white M&M'S chocolate candies and a white chocolate Santa hat with a bow Snowflake Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed blue, white chocolate and decorated with a white chocolate snowflake and white sanding sugar (Only available at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen) Minnie Santa Hat Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped cereal treat dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red sanding sugar, green M&M'S chocolate candies, and a Santa hat (New) Snowman Cake Pop: Vanilla cake pop dipped in white chocolate and decorated with dark chocolate face, M&M'S chocolate candies, a sour belt, and orange jellybean (Only available at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen) Holiday Minnie Cake Pop: Vanilla cake pop with two marshmallows ears dipped in red, white chocolate, drizzled with green, white chocolate, embellished with a red, polka dot Minnie bow Holiday Milk Marshmallow Wand: Marshmallows dipped in caramel and then milk chocolate drizzled with green and red chocolate Mickey Gingerbread Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped cereal treat dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red and green colored-chocolate and a dark chocolate Mickey Peppermint Marshmallow Wand: Marshmallows dipped in caramel and then dark chocolate covered in crushed peppermint Disney California Adventure Park Aunt Cass Café (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available)   Christmas Tree Pull-apart Sourdough Bread (Plant-based)  Snowman Sourdough Bread (Plant-based)  Candy Cane Sourdough Bread (Plant-based) Mickey-shaped Gingerbread: Soft gingerbread Mickey-shaped cookie with sprinkles Award Wieners (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)  Hollywood Beef Dip: Sliced roast beef on toasted hoagie roll with fried pickles, provolone, avocado spread, caramelized onion, and jalapeño-spiced au jus served with choice of Cuties Mandarin Oranges or filmstrip fries (New) > Mike's Pick Milk and Cookies Funnel Cake Fries: Funnel cake fries topped with cookie dough ice cream, caramel sauce, and mini cookies (New) Brewery X Purple Dusk Hard Seltzer (New) Boudin Bread Cart (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)   Christmas Tree Pull-apart Sourdough Bread (Plant-based)  Snowman Sourdough Bread (Plant-based)  Candy Cane Sourdough Bread (Plant-based) Cappuccino Cart (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available) Salted Caramel-Mocha Bundt Cake: Coffee bundt cake filled with salted caramel and finished with ganache, sprinkles, and white chocolate mousse Mickey-shaped Gingerbread: Soft gingerbread Mickey-shaped cookie with sprinkles Clarabelle's Hand-Scooped Ice Cream (Mobile order available)  Snowball Hard Float: Cranberry pomegranate seltzer, vanilla ice cream, cranberry sauce drizzle, and a rosemary garnish (New) (Available Nov. 10 through Jan. 9) Happy Holidays Hard Float: Champagne, raspberry sorbet, and a fresh raspberry garnish (New) (Dec. 17 through Jan. 9)  Cozy Cone Motel 1 – Churros (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available) Cranberry Yogurt Churro: Cinnamon sugar churro, cranberry yogurt sauce, crushed pretzels, and sprinkles (New) Nog Chata with Rumchata topped with whipped cream and sprinkles Cozy Cone Motel 2 – Ice Cream Cones (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available)Christmas Tree Cone: Peppermint soft-serve decorated with holiday sprinklesCozy Cone Motel 3 – Chili Cone Queso (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available)Chicken Pesto Cone: Creamy pesto alfredo pasta, marinated chicken, balsamic glaze, bruschetta tomatoes, and Romano cheeseCozy Cone Motel 4 – Frozen Cone-Coctions (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)Gingerbread Mule: Cinnamon whiskey, ginger beer, lemon juice, and gingerbread syrup garnished with a maraschino cherry (New) Fiddler, Fifer & Practical (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Caramel Pecan Roll: Cinnamon roll with roasted pecans, caramel sauce, and banana slices (New) Mickey Gingerbread: Soft gingerbread Mickey-shaped cookie (Limit five per person, per transaction) Flo's V-8 Café (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available) Gingerbread Shake: Gingerbread-spiced milk shake and whipped cream with holiday bundt cake (Also available with a souvenir glass) (New) Hollywood Lounge (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)  Cran-Raspberry Refresher: Cranberry and raspberry lemonade with a splash of Sprite topped with mint and a cherry (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) Rök House Brewing Co. Winter Nights Imperial Black Ale (New) Seaborn Merry Cranberry Margarita (New) Gin Lavender Lemonade: Lavender lemonade with gin and a lavender sprig (New) > Mike's Pick Smoky Hibiscus Orange Cocktail (New) > Mike's Pick Shimmering Apple Pie Cocktail: Cinnamon whiskey with pineapple juice, sour mix, green apple liquor and edible gold glitter (New) Mendocino Terrace (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; mobile order available)Mistletoe Mule: A twist on a classic mule with cranberry juice and agave garnished with a sprig of rosemary and a cape cranberry (New) Mortimer's Market (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Sourdough Bread (Plant-based) Smokejumpers Grill (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)  Caramel Crispy Churro Shake: Caramel-flavored shake, dulce de leche, crispy churro cereal, whipped cream, and chocolate garnish (New) Hibiscus Blueberry Agua Fresca: Hibiscus syrup, blueberry purée, and lime juice served over ice (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) Golden Road Brewing Christmas Cart Wheat Ale (New) Peach Passion Fruit Hard Lemonade: Tequila, lemonade, passion fruit nectar, and peach syrup served over ice (New) Studio Catering Co. (Nov. 10 through Jan. 9; mobile order available)  Filipino Feast Burrito: Pork belly adobo fried rice, pancit, and lumpia in a warm flour tortilla with sweet chili dipping sauce (New) Cran-Raspberry Refresher: Cranberry and raspberry lemonade with a splash of Sprite topped with mint and a cherry (Non-alcoholic beverage) (New) Wine Country Trattoria (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Spiced Apple Buck: Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, apple spice syrup, ginger beer, and lemon juice garnished with a lemon wheel (New) > Mike's Pick Willie's Churros at Buena Vista Street (Available Nov. 10 through Jan. 9)Almond Churro: Churro rolled in cinnamon sugar topped with almond butter, white icing, and roasted sliced almonds (New) Bing Bong's Sweet Stuff and Trolley Treats (Nov. 3 through Jan. 1; mobile order available)  Mickey Christmas Lights Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed in green, white chocolate and with black dark chocolate and M&M's lights (New)  Holiday Mickey Cake Pop: Chocolate cake pop dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red sanding sugar and green M&M'S chocolate candies (New)  Holiday Tree Cereal Treat: Tree-shaped cereal treat dipped in green, white chocolate and decorated with white chocolate, white sanding sugar, and a yellow, chocolate Mickey star (New) (Only available at Trolley Treats) Peppermint Patties: Mixture of fondant sugar, powder sugar, and peppermint flavoring dipped in dark chocolate (New) (Only available at Trolley Treats) Peppermint Bark: Peppermint-flavored dark chocolate and white chocolate sprinkled with Christmas sprinkles and marshmallows (New) (Only available at Trolley Treats) Minnie Santa Hat Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed in milk chocolate, rolled in red sanding sugar, and embellished with white M&M'S chocolate candies and a white chocolate Santa hat with a bow Snowflake Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed blue, white chocolate and decorated with a white chocolate snowflake and white sanding sugar (Only available at Trolley Treats) Minnie Santa Hat Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped cereal treat dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red sanding sugar, green M&M'S chocolate candies, and a Santa hat (New) Snowman Cake Pop: Vanilla cake pop dipped in white chocolate and decorated with dark chocolate face, M&M'S chocolate candies, a sour belt, and orange jelly bean Holiday Minnie Cake Pop: Vanilla cake pop with two marshmallows ears dipped in red, white chocolate, drizzled with green, white chocolate, and a red, polka dot Minnie bow Holiday Milk Marshmallow Wand: Marshmallows dipped in caramel and then milk chocolate drizzled with green and red chocolate Mickey Gingerbread Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped cereal treat dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red and green chocolate and a dark chocolate Mickey (Only at Trolley Treats) Peppermint Marshmallow Wand: Marshmallows dipped in caramel and then dark chocolate covered in crushed peppermint Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure ParkParadise Garden Grill (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Tacos Gobernador: Chipotle-marinated shrimp tacos with pepper Jack cheese served with Spanish rice and refried beans (New)  IMPOSSIBLE Albondigas Soup: IMPOSSIBLE meatballs in a vegetable soup (Plant-based)  Achiote-marinated Half Chicken with Spanish rice, refried beans topped with a nopal salad (New) Shareable Loaded Torta with chicken milanesa, carnitas, sliced ham, chorizo beans, panela cheese, onions, avocado spread, and tomatoes on telera bread served with chips, chorizo beans, and a wedge of street-style watermelon (Serves two to four guests) (New) Street-style Watermelon with lime juice, chile-lime seasoning, and chamoy (New) Chocolate Cake Flan: Layer of flan on chocolate cake with caramel (New) Mango Candy Cocktail: Tequila and mango with a chamoy and chile-lime seasoned rim (New) Modelo Especial Dos Equis Ambar Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta  Al Pastor Pizza with chorizo beans, marinated pork, pineapple, cilantro, onions and avocado salsa (Available by the slice or a whole pie) (Nov. 10 through Jan. 22) Gingerbread Cheesecake topped with vanilla mousse (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Hotels of the Disneyland Resort Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & SpaGrand Californian Great Hall Cart (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)  Mickey Mouse-shaped Poinsettia Cookie Mickey-shaped Gingerbread Cookie Christmas Cookie Holiday Cookie Box: will include two milk chocolate-dipped Mickey-shaped cookies, two raspberry-filled cookies and two sugar cookies with festive sprinkles Assorted Macarons: Assorted macaron box will include two gingerbread, two peppermint and two Mexican hot chocolate Kwanzaa Sweet Potato Loaf Crisped Rice Treat Holiday Cinnamon Buns (New) Hot Cocoa Cookies (New) Coffee with Liqueur (Available with Amaretto, Butterscotch, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal Apple, Godiva Chocolate, Grand Marnier, Jameson Whiskey, Peppermint Schnapps, Rumchata, Rumple Minz, Skrewball Whiskey) (New) Eggnog with Baileys Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot with Milk Gingerbread Cookie Shot with Milk (New) Red Velvet Cookie Shot with Milk (New) Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot with Liqueur (Available with Amaretto, Butterscotch, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal Apple, Godiva Chocolate, Grand Marnier, Jameson Whiskey, Peppermint Schnapps, Rumchata, Rumple Minz, Skrewball Whiskey) Cookie shot with Louis XIII Cognac Cookie shot with Clase Azul Ultra Anejo Downtown Disney DistrictBallast Point Brewing Co. (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Butternut Squash Salmon: Skin-on pan-roasted salmon with butternut squash purée, sautéed quinoa, pomegranate sherry reduction, and arugula salad garnish (New)  Beignets Expressed (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Maple-bacon Glazed Beignets: Maple-infused icing topped with applewood smoked bacon (New)  California Churro (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Peppermint Hot Chocolate Churro: Churro rolled in chocolate sugar, drizzled with mint and chocolate icing, and covered in peppermint candies (New)  Kayla's Cake (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Gingerbread Macarons: Gingerbread buttercream, spiced with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and honeyMarceline's Confectionery (Nov. 3 through Jan. 1; mobile order available)  Mickey Christmas Lights Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed in green, white chocolate and decorated with black dark chocolate and M&M'S chocolate candies lights (New)  Holiday Mickey Cake Pop: Chocolate cake pop dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red sanding sugar and green M&M's chocolate candies (New)  Holiday Tree Cereal Treat: Tree-shaped cereal treat dipped in green, white chocolate and decorated with white chocolate, white sanding sugar, and a yellow, chocolate Mickey star (New)  Peppermint Patties: Mixture of fondant sugar, powder sugar, and peppermint flavoring dipped in dark chocolate (New)  Minnie Santa Hat Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed in milk chocolate, rolled in red sanding sugar, and embellished with white M&M'S chocolate candies and a white chocolate Santa hat with a bow Snowflake Apple: Green apple dipped in caramel with two marshmallows ears enrobed blue, white chocolate and decorated with a white chocolate snowflake and white sanding sugar Minnie Santa Hat Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped cereal treat dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red sanding sugar, green M&M'S chocolate candies, and a Santa hat (New) Snowman Cake Pop: Vanilla cake pop dipped in white chocolate and decorated with dark chocolate face, M&M'S chocolate candies, a sour belt, and orange jellybean Holiday Minnie Cake Pop: Vanilla cake pop with two marshmallows ears dipped in red, white chocolate, drizzled with green, white chocolate, embellished with a red, polka dot Minnie bow Holiday Milk Marshmallow Wand: Marshmallows dipped in caramel and then milk chocolate drizzled with green and red chocolate Mickey Gingerbread Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped cereal treat dipped in milk chocolate and decorated with red and green colored-chocolate and a dark chocolate Mickey Peppermint Marshmallow Wand: Marshmallows dipped in caramel and then dark chocolate covered in crushed peppermint Peppermint Bark: Peppermint-flavored dark chocolate and white chocolate sprinkled with Christmas sprinkles and marshmallows (New) Naples Ristorante e Bar (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Traditional Chiacchiere Italian Bow Tie Cookies: Slightly sweet, fried angel wing pastries with powdered sugar and blackberry dipping sauce (At Naples Ristorante e Bar and Napolini Pizzeria) Bah Humbug Cocktail: Peanut butter whiskey, white crème de cacao, green crème de menthe, and half and half with a dissolvable holiday message (New)  Scrooged Cocktail: Peanut butter whiskey and eggnog topped with holiday sprinkles (New) Splitsville Luxury Lanes  Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Peppermint hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, peppermint candy cane, crushed peppermint candy, red sprinkles, and cocoa powder (New) (Dec. 1 to 31) Winter White Cosmopolitan: Vodka, orange liqueur, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, and white cranberry-peach juice (New) (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7) Tortilla Jo's (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7)Santa's Margarita for Two: Blanco tequila, peach liqueur, raspberry liqueur, cranberry juice, and sweet and sour garnished with a white sugar rim, and fresh cranberries (New)  Novelties Available Throughout the Resort (Available starting Nov. 10 throughout the holiday season) Chip & Dale Holiday Straw Clip (Limit two per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Café Daisy, Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor, The Golden Horseshoe, Hungry Bear Restaurant, Lemonade at small world Promenade, Little Red Wagon, and Troubadour Tavern At Disney California Adventure Park: Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park, Mortimer's Market, Schmoozies!, Smokejumpers Grill, and Willie's Churros at Buena Vista Street Christmas Parade Reindeer Sipper (Mobile order available at select locations; limit 10 per person, per transaction); Available at the following locations:  At Disneyland Park: Churros at small world Promenade, Churros near Casey Jr. Circus Train, Galactic Grill, Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, Lemonade at small world Promenade, Plaza Inn, Refreshment Corner, and Tomorrowland Fruit Cart Gold Musical Rotating Tin (Limit two per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Popcorn at Tomorrowland, Popcorn near Haunted Mansion, and Popcorn near Mark Twain Riverboat At Disney California Adventure Park: Churros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, Popcorn at Pixar Pier, Willie's Churros at Buena Vista Street, Popcorn near Carthay Circle Restaurant, and Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield Holiday Kermit Straw Clip (Limit 10 per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Churros near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Churros near Sleeping Beauty Castle, Churros near Town Square, Lemonade at small world Promenade, Pretzels near Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, and Troubadour Tavern At Disney California Adventure Park: Churros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, Mortimer's Market, and Willie's Churros at Buena Vista Street Holiday Olaf Bottle Topper (Limit two per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Churros & Lemonade in Critter Country, Churros at small world Promenade, Pretzels near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Churros near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Churros near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Churros near Casey Jr. Circus Train, Churros near Haunted Mansion, Churros near Sleeping Beauty Castle, Churros near Town Square, Lemonade at small world Promenade, Pretzels near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Pretzels near Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Ship to Shore Marketplace, and Troubadour Taverne At Disney California Adventure Park: Churros at Hollywood Land, Churros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, Mortimer's Market, Willie's Churros at Buena Vista Street, and Outdoor Vending at Disney California Adventure park Holiday Popcorn Bucket (Limit 10 per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Popcorn at small world Promenade, Popcorn at Tomorrowland, Popcorn near Central Plaza, Popcorn near Chip ‘n' Dale's GADGETcoaster, Popcorn near City Hall, Popcorn near Fantasyland Theatre, Popcorn near Haunted Mansion, and Popcorn near Mark Twain Riverboat At Disney California Adventure Park: Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield, Popcorn near Carthay Circle Popcorn at Pixar Pier Holiday Stainless Steel Tumbler (Mobile order available at select locations; limit two per person, per transaction); Available at the following locations:  At Disneyland Park: Bengal Barbecue, Galactic Grill, The Golden Horseshoe, Harbour Galley, Hungry Bear Restaurant, Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, Plaza Inn, Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante, Red Rose Taverne, Refreshment Corner, and Stage Door Café At Disney California Adventure Park: Award Wieners, Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta, Cappuccino Cart, Paradise Garden Grill, Smokejumpers Grill At Disneyland Hotel: Coffee House At Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: GCH Craftsman Grill Holiday Swizzle Stick (Limit two per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Rancho del Zocalo At Disney California Adventure Park: Cappuccino Cart, Hollywood Lounge, Sonoma Terrace, and Disney Festival of Holidays Marketplaces At Disneyland Hotel: Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar, Pool Bar At Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: Grand Californian Great Hall Cart Holiday Travel Tumbler (Mobile order available at select locations; limit 10 per person, per transaction); Available at the following locations:  At Disneyland Park: Alien Pizza Planet, Bengal Barbecue, Café Daisy, Fantasyland Fruit Cart, Galactic Grill, The Golden Horseshoe, Harbour Galley, Hungry Bear Restaurant, Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, Lemonade at small world Promenade, Lemonade near Tomorrowland Expo Center, Mint Julep Bar, Plaza Inn, Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante, Red Rose Taverne, Refreshment Corner, Royal Street Veranda, Ship to Shore Marketplace, Stage Door Café, and Troubadour Tavern At California Adventure Park: Award Wieners, Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta, Cappuccino Cart, Corn Dog Castle, Paradise Garden Grill, and Smokejumpers Grill At Disneyland Hotel: Coffee House At Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: GCH Craftsman Grill Mickey Mouse-shaped Peppermint Glow Cube (Limit two per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Bengal Barbecue, Galactic Grill, Harbour Galley, Mint Julep Bar, Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante Red Rose Taverne, and Refreshment Corner At Disney California Adventure Park: Bayside Brews, Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta, Corn Dog Castle, Paradise Garden Grill, Smokejumpers Grill, Seasonal Snack, and Disney Festival of Holidays Marketplaces Mickey Mouse-shaped Green Glitter Jingle Bell Glow Cube (Nov. 10 through Jan. 7; limit two per person, per transaction); Available at the following locations:  At Disneyland Park: Bengal Barbecue, Galactic Grill, Harbour Galley, Little Red Wagon, Mint Julep Bar, Red Rose Taverne, and Refreshment Corner At Disney California Adventure Park: Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta, Carthay Circle Restaurant, Clarabelle's Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Corn Dog Castle, Hollywood Lounge, Smokejumpers Grill, and Studio Catering Co. Mickey Mouse-shaped Red Glitter Jingle Bell Glow Cube (Limit two per person, per transaction); Available at the following locations:  At Disneyland Park: Bengal Barbecue, Galactic Grill, Harbour Galley, Little Red Wagon, Mint Julep Bar, Red Rose Taverne, and Refreshment Corner At Disney California Adventure Park: Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta, Carthay Circle Restaurant, Clarabelle's Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Corn Dog Castle, Hollywood Lounge, Smokejumpers Grill, and Studio Catering Co. Mickey Mouse Toy Soldier Bucket (Limit two per person, per transaction); Available at:  At Disneyland Park: Popcorn at small world Promenade, Popcorn at Tomorrowland, Popcorn near Central Plaza, Popcorn near City Hall, Popcorn near Fantasyland Theatre, Popcorn near Haunted Mansion, and Popcorn near Mark Twain Riverboat At Disney California Adventure Park: Churros at Grizzly Peak Airfield, Popcorn near Carthay Circle, Popcorn at Pixar Pier, and Willie's Churros at Buena Vista Street --Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main StreetPlease be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Jamendo

This is the Live Call-in Show from this past Sunday night, October 29, 2023!  During this show, Mike & Scott were back together to take your calls for the hour on a variety of fun Disney topics!  Scott starts the show off with some thoughts on his amazing trip to Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii, and we really get into the travel and how much jetlag affected him and his family.  Then, we get a call from Listener Jared (who is covering the World Series in Phoenix) about taking his twins to Walt Disney World for the first time here soon!  We also speak with Listener Chris about his amazing stay at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort last week, as well as some highlights from his trip!  We hope you enjoy today's show! Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com.  Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast.  Become a patron of the Be Our Guest Podcast over at www.patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast.  Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

This week, we finally have an opening date for the Adventureland Treehouse, Space Mountian is back with some updates, the new DVC bar is opening soon, some voices are leaving the park, we conclude our talk with author J Jeff Kober, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. If you want some DLWeekly Swag, you can pick some up at https://www.dlweekly.net/store/. Book your travel through ConciEARS at no extra cost to you! Be sure to mention that you heard about ConciEARS from DLWeekly at booking! DISCOUNTS! We have partnered with the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground to get great deals for our listeners! Book your stay at the Howard Johnson Anaheim and get 15% off your stay (code 1000022077)! Magic Key Holders get 20% off their stay (code 1000025935) as well! Book now! Need the perfect bag for your days in the parks? Look no further than Designer Park Co.! Purchase the Rope Drop Bag as featured on Episode 222 and get 10% off your purchase! Use coupon code DLWEEKLY to get the discount. If you want some awesome headwear or one of a kind items, be sure to visit our friends over at All Enchanting Ears! You can use the promo code DLWEEKLY10 to get 10% off your order! News: Of course, the day after our last episode went live, we got the reopening date for the Adventureland Treehouse. The attraction will reopen on November 10th to guests and feature the mother's music den, the son's nature room, and the daughter's astronomer's loft. The kitchen, dining room, and father's art studio are at ground level. It will be great to have this attraction back open welcoming guests! – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2023/10/new-adventureland-treehouse-opening-in-disneyland-nov-10-2023/ Space Mountain returned from refurbishment last week, with some notable updates and one miss, at least for now. On the exterior of the attraction, new projection effects and lighting really bring the mountain to life. Inside the attraction, new projection effects have been added “in space” for guests to experience. The section of the attraction just after the first small lift hill is completely dark, but David from Fresh Baked reported that a cast member informed him they are still working on it. – https://www.micechat.com/371431-disneyland-news-voices-silenced-new-projects/ https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/10/photos-video-space-mountain-reopens-with-new-projection-effects-at-disneyland-park/ The new bar at The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel opens this week! The Palm Breeze Bar will serve salads, sandwiches, sharables, pizza, and more. It will open on November 2nd and will be available to all guests staying at the Disneyland Hotel.  – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2023/10/disney-eats-foodie-guide-to-new-palm-breeze-bar-opening-nov-2-at-the-villas-at-disneyland-hotel/ A fun and scary cast member event was shared online recently. The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail scare maze was available to cast members attending the Grizzly Peak Halloween Carnival recognition event. The organizers of the event hope to continue to expand the scare maze and plus it more each year. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/10/disneyland-resort-shares-look-at-cast-member-exclusive-scare-maze/ This Halloween season, a Disney artist named Joe Yakovetic has been at the Disneyland Hotel and the Grand Californian Hotel sculpting pumpkins. He was by the Fantasy Tower at the Disneyland Hotel from noon to 3PM, and at the Grand Californian from 5PM to 8PM. He was there until October 30th. – https://www.micechat.com/371254-joe-yakovetics-pumpkin-wonderland-at-the-disneyland-hotels-through-halloween/ A holiday tradition at Disneyland is returning this year, and the dates have been released. The Candlelight Processional will take place on December 2nd and 3rd at 5:30pm and 7:45pm each night. As usual, narrators for the show have not been announced and will be a surprise for the nights of the processional. There is limited standing room only behind the seating area for park guests, so unless you are a VIP, you will need to claim your spot very early in the day. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2023/10/28/dates-announced-for-the-2023-candlelight-processional-at-disneyland-resort/ Disney Vacation Club announced the dates and registration details for the 2024 Moonlight Magic events at Walt Disney World and Disney California Adventure. These events are free for DVC members and include after-hours access to attractions, rare character meet and greets, entertainment, and more. For Disney California Adventure, the event will take place on January 29th, 2024. No further information was announced at this time. For more details, check out the link in our show notes. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/10/disney-vacation-club-announces-2024-moonlight-magic-dates-at-walt-disney-world-and-disney-california-adventure/ https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/10/disneyland-resort-shares-look-at-cast-member-exclusive-scare-maze/ For the last 32 years at Disneyland and 11 years at Disney California Adventure, you could count on one thing: the voices of Bill Rogers and Camille Dixon welcoming guests with their voices. The resort is going through some casting changes that caused Bill and Camille to move on to other projects. – https://www.micechat.com/371319-iconic-disneyland-voices-moving-on-celebrating-the-legacy-of-bill-rogers-and-camille-dixon/ A new Magic Keyholder exclusive perk is available at the Magic Key Terrace. A new medallion machine with exclusive designs on gold medallions was installed last week with four new designs. The classic Disneyland sign, the Pixar Pal-A-Round, and Sleeping Beauty Castle are among the designs. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/10/new-gold-magic-key-medallions-coming-to-disneyland-resort/ Discussion Topic: J Jeff Kober Amazon Book Link – https://a.co/d/5MidHou Jeff's Website – https://disneyinsights.com/ This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

We have something very special for you today! Listener Alex from Oregon joins us today from the seats right outside the Disneyland Hotel to talk to us about his first-time staying on-site at the Disneyland Resort earlier this year at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel! How cool is that? We hear about meeting Bob Iger, how Imagineering is so special to him, fun times in the theme parks, great meals and snacks, and much more! Plus, Alex gives lots of great tips to make your next Disneyland trip that much better! We hope you enjoy today's podcast!  Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com.  Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast.  Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast.   Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

In this special show, the team is coming to you from Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to discuss the DIS / Dreams Avengers Campus Party, plus highlights of Disneyland and more!Links:Important DIS links and more information! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Disney Vacation Planning Just Got a Little EasierMaybe it should have been there from the very start, but after years of having to jump through hoops with Disney World and Disneyland vacation planning, Disney is finally implementing a change that will make trip planning a little easier for guests. This story, plus Disney Aulani news and a Christmas 2023 Disneyland update.The Big Changes for How You Can Book Your Advanced Dining at Disneyland and Walt Disney WorldAfter many years of frustration that caused guests to jump through hoops and juggle plans around Disney dining, Disney if finally making it much more efficient to book dining reservations. The new updates include: The Ability to See and Pick from All Available Reservation Slots (not just three): We shouldn't be so excited for something that should have been there all along, but now all available dining reservation slots will show up for your selected dining location and timeframe on the Disneyland website/Disneyland app and on the Walt Disney World website/My Disney Experience app.  Reservation Slots Sorted by Meal Period: Reservation availability will be sorted by meal period so you can see which menu is being served during the time of your reservation. This is most important around the transition time periods, for example if you're booking 4:00 p.m. you'll see if they're still serving lunch or starting on the dinner menu. These updates will roll out in phases across the website and iOS and Android platforms.--Disney Aulani Refurbishment Update: Ka Maka Pool and GrottoIf you're heading to Disney Aulani Hawaii this October, this is important news. The Ka Maka Pool and Grotto, including Ka Maka whirlpool spa, will be closed from October 9 - 28, 2023 for refurbishment. This is a showpiece pool so it will be missed by guests visiting at this time.Resort pools and water features that will be open include the Waikolohe Pool and Stream, the two water slides, multiple whirlpool spas, Keiki Cove splash zone, and the Wailana Pool. --2023 Disneyland Resort Holiday Season Dates and Details RevealedThe Holidays dates for Disneyland Resort this year will be November 10, 2023, through January 7, 2024. Here is what's happening including the celebrations, décor, entertainment and more for this year's Christmas and holiday season.Cultural Celebrations in Disney California Adventure Park with Disney Festival of HolidaysThe Disney Festival of Holidays draws inspiration from a wide range of global holiday celebrations, including Christmas, Navidad, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Three Kings Day. Enjoy new treats and returning favorite food and beverage items at the Disney Festival of Holidays marketplaces and get into the spirit of it all with music and dance performances at the Palisades Stage, Sonoma Terrace and for the first time, in the Hollywood Backlot. Plus, you can dance along as Disney and Pixar characters march to the beat of the Holiday Toy Drummers in “Mickey's Happy Holidays.”The Sip and Savor Pass is back and offers eight entitlement tabs that can be redeemed for select food and non-alcoholic beverages from several marketplaces and participating dining locations in Disney California Adventure. Each Sip and Savor Pass is valid for the entire of Disney Festival of Holidays and can be shared among friends and family, so your whole group can sample dishes together this season.Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is back at the Paradise Gardens Park for its 10th season. This year, you can taste your way through an all-new menu at Paradise Garden Grill. The Three Caballeros will host a joyous street party, featuring Mexican folklórico dancers and mariachis, Brazilian samba dancers and percussionists, giant mojiganga puppets and Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their holiday best. Additional festivities in this area will include live music and dancing, visits with more Disney characters and special appearances by Mirabel from Encanto. Festive Décor and Attractions Across Disneyland ResortAnchored by Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle, adorned with icicles and snow-capped turrets as a must see, also be sure to visit the oversize gingerbread house at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. If you like Christmas trees with uniquely themed ornaments, there will be plenty to see in both parks, Downtown Disney District, Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Disneyland Hotel. And since it's the Christmas holiday season, you may just see a little Disney magic “snow” falling nightly in select areas of Disneyland park.And that's not all: ornaments, lights and more will also embellish favorite attractions that get a special holiday overlay. In Disneyland, you'll be serenaded with choruses of jolly tunes on the wintry waterway of “it's a small world” Holiday, and Jack Skellington redecorates the Haunted Mansion as usual, transforming it into the frightfully festive Haunted Mansion Holiday -- this year with a new haunted gingerbread house. In Disney California Adventure, Luigi's Joy to the Whirl and Mater's Jingle Jamboree, both offer up seasonal spins for the “haul-idays.”Delight in Seasonal Spectaculars and Holiday EntertainmentFor festive photos, watch for Mickey Mouse and friends with all-new holiday outfits in Disneyland park, putting a spin on the classic red and green with midcentury modern-inspired looks. Plus, Santa Claus will be there too and available to pose for jolly photos around Disneyland Resort through December 24.For merry entertainment, Disneyland Park offers “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” starring characters from Frozen, Toy Story and more. In the evening, watch for the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” nighttime spectacular, which will light up the night sky with fireworks and sprinklings of snow. At Disney California Adventure, World of Color – Season of Light will fill Paradise Bay with the holiday spirit as hundreds of fountains illustrate warm moments from Disney animated films.Downtown Disney isn't just for holiday shopping, you can also groove to a variety of seasonal live musical performances on select evenings at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage. Disney's Grand Californian Hotel will also have live entertainment on select nights.--Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Jamendo

On this week's episode, Dani and Tony are giving you their hot takes of the best and worst things about staying at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in Anaheim. Plus, news for the week including another extension for Bob Iger, another Disney technical fail, and a whole lot of Haunted Mansion news. Support the show

Today, we head to the other side of the planet to speak with Listener Sandra from Australia about her trip to Walt Disney World (and Disneyland) last summer!  We talk about how she grew up a Disney fan "down under" and some of the logistics of traveling to Walt Disney World from such a distance!  We also hear about her purchase of DVC, 10+ night stay at Walt Disney World, staying at the Boardwalk & Bay Lake Tower, attending Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, spending a day at Typhoon Lagoon, and doing some major shopping!  Also, she hit Disneyland on the way home with a night at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel too!  We hope you enjoy today's podcast!  Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com.  Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast.  Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast.   Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

That Disney Hustle – Wrapping Up with the Disneyland Resort Today we conclude our series taking you all throughout Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. We've taken you through both parks now we'll share our thoughts on the Downtown Disney District and the Disney owned hotels that are part of the Disneyland Resort. Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel, and Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel / Pixar Place Hotel or whatever it's called. As well we'll talk about the Good Neighbor Hotels and our experiences with them. If you're planning a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth you don't want to miss this episode! The Rise & Fall of the Original Disneyland Hotel by Yesterworld Entertainment - https://youtu.be/rctkG-VUbDc Visit us on the web ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thatvacationco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow our ⁠⁠⁠⁠That Disney Hustle Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ account. If you need help booking contact us for a free no obligation quote. We are That Vacation Co., serving you the most delightful destinations. Hosted by Caleb and Chanel Berg. Produced by Caleb Berg --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thatvacationco/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thatvacationco/support

Disney has a new tour for Disney100, so what do you get and is it worth it? This plus our top picks from what's new in the Easter Foodie Guide 2023 for Walt Disney World and Disneyland.To Celebrate Disney100 at Disneyland Resort, Disney is doing What they Should have Done for Disney World 50Disneyland has launched a new guided tour called “Celebrating Disney100 at the Disneyland Resort” The new guided tour will give you a unique opportunity to meet a Disney animator at Animation Academy and explore Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park as a living story of the past 100 years of Disney magic. Here is what the Celebrating Disney100 tour includes: A guided walk through both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park with an official Disneyland tour guide Tours of Buena Vista Street, Animation Academy, Main Street Opera House, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland and Sleeping Beauty Castle A unique drawing experience at Animation Academy that features special characters for Disney100 A complimentary digital download of your snapshot in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle adorned with dazzling Disney100 celebratory decorations A Disney100 Celebration treat Reserved viewing for the "Magic Happens" Parade, on the day of the tour A specially designed Disney100 commemorative pin -- Walt Disney World Easter Foodie GuideWalt Disney World Resort Disney Resort Hotels Disney's All-Star Movies Resort, Disney's All-Star Music Resort, and Disney's All-Star Sports Resort  World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court (Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available) Thumper Carrot Cake: Carrot cake with cream cheese icing (New)  >Top Pick Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge  The Mara (Available April 1 through 9; mobile order available) Carrot Cake Cheesecake Tart: Carrot cake, pineapple, and vanilla cheesecake (New)  >Top Pick Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available) Coconut Sugar Bunny Cupcake: Carrot cake with pineapple filling topped with cream cheese buttercream and coconut sugarDisney's Beach Club Resort  Beach Club Marketplace (Available March 20 through April 9; mobile order available)  Carrot Garden Fudge: Chocolate fudge with a vanilla carrot decorated cookie (New) Orange-Vanilla Bunny Tart: Orange vanilla mousse with a chocolate filled vanilla tart and orange marmalade (New)  Easter Chocolate Donald Egg and Easter Chocolate Daisy Egg: Chocolate Easter eggs decorated to look like Donald Duck and Daisy Duck (New) Beaches & Cream Soda Shop (Available April 1 through 30) Carrot Cake Milkshake: Vanilla milkshake with toasted marshmallow, pineapple, and shortcake topped with a specialty carrot cake (New)  >Top Pick Disney's BoardWalk BoardWalk Deli and Carousel Coffee (Available April 1 through 9; mobile order available at BoardWalk Deli only)  Coconut Macaroon Nest: Coconut macaroon and chocolate eggs Chocolate-covered Strawberry ‘Carrots' Italian Easter Sweet Bread: Citrus-scented dough, almond cream, and filled chocolate egg (New)  >Top Pick Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort  Centertown Market and Spyglass Grill (Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available) Spring Treat Box: Carrot cake with cream cheese icing, mini brownie, lemon shortbread cookies, and a chocolate-dipped strawberry (New)  Disney's Contemporary Resort Contempo Café (Available through April 9; mobile order available)  Spring Bunny Tart: Honey pastry cream topped with lemon curd and strawberry Chantilly cream (New)  Spring Coconut Macaroons: Coconut macaroon, dulce de leche macaroon, and chocolate macaroon decorated to look like a bunny tail (New)  Peanut Butter Eggs: Peanut butter milk chocolate crunch egg coated in chocolate (New)  Hummingbird Cake: Cake with pineapple, banana, and pecans drizzled with caramel icing (New)  Five-legged Goat Cookie: Citrus-scented gluten free sugar cookie with an edible image of the Five-legged Goat (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) Steakhouse 71 (Available April 9 only) Brunch: Gather family and friends to enjoy delicious dishes from this special menu including:  Floridian Eggs Benedict: Two poached eggs and a crab cake with hollandaise atop toasted English muffins served with breakfast potatoes Bacon & Eggs: Maple-lacquered pork belly, smoked cheese grits, and a perfect egg Exclusive to Brunch: Hummingbird Bread Pudding featuring pineapple, banana, coconut bread pudding with candied pecans, salted caramel, and cream cheese ice cream Disney's Coronado Springs Resort  Barcelona Lounge  Bunny Ear Cupcake: Yellow cupcake flavored with pineapple juice and a pineapple filling topped with buttercream (New) (Available April 1 through 9)  Bird of Paradise Refresher: Strawberry, lemonade, passionfruit juice, and passionfruit boba (Available April 1 through May 31) Three Bridges Bar and Grill (Available April 1 through May 31)Botanical Blossom Sangria: Macabeo Wine, Ketel One Botanicals Grapefruit & Rose Vodka, Combier Crème Pamplemousse Rose, Lush Grenadine, and Minute Maid Premium Lemonade (New) Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Gasparilla's Island Grill (Available through April 9; mobile order available)  Cream Cheese Carrot Coffee Cake: Carrot coffee cake filled with cream cheese topped with fondant and orange sugar (also at the Grand Cottage) >Top Pick Vanilla Bean Cupcake Sampler: Four vanilla bean cupcakes decorated with Easter décor (New) >Top Pick The Grand Cottage at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Lobby (Available through April 9) Back for the second year, The Grand Cottage features over 15 treats hand-crafted by the talented Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Bakery, led by Pastry Chef Kristine Farmer. Be sure to try returning favorites like the Hot-cross Buns, Carrot Blondie Pop, and the Grand Egg as well as exciting new offerings like the Lemon Blueberry Whoopie Pie, Confetti Cake Pop, and the plant-basedBunnyburrow Dirt Cup.Disney's Old Key West Resort and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Good's Food to Go and The Artist's Palette (Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available at The Artist's Palette only)  Carrot Cake with cream cheese icing  Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Pineapple Lanai (Available April 7 through 9) Easter Soft-serve: Pink, vanilla soft-serve with toasted marshmallow flavors topped with Easter sprinklesDisney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Riverside Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory and Riverside Mill Food Court (Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available)Carrot Patch Cupcake: Carrot cake with cream cheese icing (New)  Disney's Riviera ResortLe Petit Café (Available April 1 through 9) Golden Egg: Raspberry mousse, milk chocolate mousse, and pistachio financier (New)  >Top Pick Topolino's Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Available April 1 through 9) Torta di Carote: Italian carrot cake, mascarpone Cremieux, black currant-raspberry gel, carrot truffles, and brown butter ice cream (New)  Disney's Wilderness Lodge Roaring Fork (Available April 1 through 9; mobile order available)   Chocolate Bunny: Dark chocolate bunny with Easter quins and jellybeans Bunny Cupcake: Carrot cake, orange curd filling, and maple buttercream with a cheesecake bunny on top Geyser Point Bar & Grill (Available April 1 through May 31) Spring Margarita Flight featuring Teremana Blanco Tequila with four springtime flavors: Key lime, elderflower, lavender, and grapefruit (New)  >Top Pick Disney's Yacht Club Resort  Market at Ale & Compass (Available March 20 through April 9; mobile order available)   Carrot Garden Fudge: Chocolate fudge with a vanilla carrot decorated cookie (New)  Orange-Vanilla Bunny Tart: Orange vanilla mousse with a chocolate filled vanilla tart and orange marmalade (New)  Easter Chocolate Donald Egg and Easter Chocolate Daisy Egg: Chocolate Easter eggs decorated to look like Donald Duck and Daisy Duck (New)  >Top Pick Available at Various Disney Resort Hotels (Available April 1 through May 31; mobile order available)   Spring (Plant-based) Fling: Chocolate cupcake with vanilla “buttercream” and bouquet of sprinkles (New) (Plant-based) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly); Available at the following: World Premiere Food Court at Disney's All-Star Movies Resort Intermission Food Court at Disney's All-Star Music Resort End Zone Food Court at Disney's All-Star Sports Resort Landscape of Flavors at Disney's Art of Animation Resort Centertown Market at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Spyglass Grill at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney's Pop Century Resort Available at Various Table-Service Restaurants and Lounges at Resorts (Available April 1 - May 31)  Blood Orange Martini: Skyy Infusions Blood Orange Vodka and orange juice topped with Ruffino Prosecco and garnished with a dehydrated blood orange wheel (New) Disney Springs  Amorette's Patisserie (Available April 1 through 9) Easter Petit Cake: Vanilla chiffon, berry compote, berry mousse, and cream cheese mousse (New) The Ganachery (Available through April 9)   Bunny Minnie Chocolate Piñata: Milk chocolate piñata filled with Easter treats Easter Ganache Pop: Strawberry ganache pop enrobed in dark chocolate Milk Chocolate Marshmallows: Vanilla marshmallows enrobed in milk chocolate Chocolate Surprise Bunny: Milk chocolate bunny filled with marshmallow treats Swirls on the Water (Available April 1 through 30)  Easter Basket Nachos: DOLE Whip raspberry, cotton candy soft-serve, jellybeans, raspberry sauce, strawberry boba, whip cream, and waffle chips (New)  Cotton Candy Cone: DOLE Whip raspberry, cotton candy soft-serve, celebration cone, and sprinkles (New)  Disney's Vero Beach Resort Wind & Waves Grill (Available April 9 only) Easter Brunch including house-made hot crossed buns, chicken and waffles, Monte Cristo sandwiches, omelette station, beverage specials, and more.Disneyland Resort Disneyland Park Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen and Pooh Corner (Available through April 9)  Easter Eggs: Chocolate and peanut butter flavors Bunny Cake Pop Bunny Crisped Rice Treat Strawberry Mickey Wand Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (Available through April 9; mobile order available)  Tuna Sandwich with Chips: Tuna salad, lettuce, and tomato on a brioche bun served with house-made chips  Disney California Adventure Park Smokejumpers Grill (Available through April 9; mobile order available) Fish & Chips: Beer-battered local rockfish and crinkle-cut fries served with remoulade, slaw, and lime (New) (Kid's version available)  >Top Pick Trolley Treats and Bing Bong's Sweet Stuff (Available through April 9)   Bunny Cake Pop Bunny Crisped Rice Treat Strawberry Mickey Wand Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & SpaGCH Craftsman Grill (Available through April 9; mobile order available)  Mickey Mouse-shaped Easter Donut Bunny Cupcake GCH Holiday Cart (Available through April 9)  Easter Basket Cookie Bunny Crisped Rice Treat Easter Cookie Carrot Cake Loaf Easter Cookie Treat Box Waffle Cookie Shot with choice of milk, low-fat milk, chocolate milk, or strawberry milk (Alcoholic version available for guests 21 and over)  Storytellers Cafe (Available April 9 only)Grab the family to celebrate Easter at a brunch or dinner buffet joined by some iconic Disney pals (Reservations can be made on the Disneyland Resort website or Disneyland app and are highly recommended. Same-day reservations can be made on a limited basis and subject to availability.) Downtown Disney District Marceline's Confectionery (Available through April 9)  Bunny Cake Pop Bunny Crisped Rice Treat Strawberry Mickey Wand --Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel PodcastThank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.Shop 1923 Main StreetFeel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.Contact 1923 Main StreetThank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.Thank you for listening and have a magical day!Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic--Media provided by Jamendo

This week, Bob Iger talks about the parks, spring break is hitting the parks, but weather is tempering the crowds, fireworks are back nightly, Imagineering shows off some cool tech, we finish our talk with Don from the PNW Mouse Meet, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. If you want some DLWeekly Swag, you can pick some up at https://www.dlweekly.net/store/. Book your travel through ConciEARS at no extra cost to you! Be sure to mention that you heard about ConciEARS from DLWeekly at booking! DISCOUNTS! We have partnered with the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground to get great deals for our listeners! Book your stay at the Howard Johnson Anaheim and get 15% off your stay (code 1000022077)! Magic Key Holders get 20% off their stay (code 1000025935) as well! Book now! Need the perfect bag for your days in the parks? Look no further than Designer Park Co.! Purchase the Rope Drop Bag as featured on Episode 222 and get 10% off your purchase! Use coupon code DLWEEKLY to get the discount. If you want some awesome headwear or one of a kind items, be sure to visit our friends over at All Enchanting Ears! You can use the promo code DLWEEKLY10 to get 10% off your order! News: Bob Iger talked about the company and the parks during a question and answer session at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media and Telecom Conference. He emphasized that reducing crowds in the parks was important to improving the guest experience. It sounds like part of the process to help with that would be to add new capacity and attractions to serve more guests. – https://www.micechat.com/350274-disneyland-update-the-one-two-punch/ and https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/03/ceo-bob-iger-talks-disney-parks-guest-experience-rethinking-pricing-strategies-and-opportunities-to-add-more-attractions/ Spring Break season has descended upon the resort. This year, it has been very interesting to see the crowds because of the on again, off again weather changes. On the nice weather days, the parks feel like they are back to the pre-pandemic levels, then just a day later with rain, the parks seem deserted. Waits on the rainy days were mostly under 30 minutes – https://www.micechat.com/350274-disneyland-update-the-one-two-punch/ Nightly fireworks have returned to the resort for the higher crowds and spring break. Usually, the fireworks are only part of the show from Friday through Sunday. Now, they are performed every night, which is a wonderful way to see Wondrous Journeys. – https://www.micechat.com/350274-disneyland-update-the-one-two-punch/ Walt Disney Imagineering were at it again showing off some of the new technology that they have been working on at a Disney Parks presentation at South by Southwest. Some of the eye-catching things included a “life size” Tinker Bell. In addition, they demoed a small dynamic robot that could bring Judy Hopps to life, along with showing off the Hulk character that was in Avengers Campus in September. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/03/new-look-at-life-size-tinker-bell-for-disney-parks-meet-and-greet-may-still-debut/ and https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/03/video-disney-parks-shares-closer-look-at-life-size-tiny-tinker-bell-technology/ The rest of Toontown opens this weekend, but another smaller part of the land has opened. EngineEar Souvenirs has opened as the attached gift shop to Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway. The new shop is very themed to trains, including a train that travels around the store above guest's heads. The shop carries a lot of Toontown and Runaway Railway attraction merchandise. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2023/03/10/disney-opened-a-new-store-today-come-check-it-out/ and https://www.micechat.com/349905-disneyland-toontown-merchandise-engineear-souvenirs/ St. Patrick's Day is this Friday and of course, Disneyland has some treats to help celebrate! Guests can pick up some shamrock-shaped rice crispy treats, green stuff at Red Rose Tavern, a cupcake and donut at Craftsman Grill at the Grand Californian Hotel, and a cocktail at the Hearthstone Lounge though March 19th. Downtown Disney also has an assortment of options for the holiday. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/03/full-list-of-st-patricks-day-2023-food-beverages-coming-to-disneyland-resort/ and https://www.micechat.com/350274-disneyland-update-the-one-two-punch/ Sunday, April 9th is Easter and that can mean only one thing: Handmade Chocolate Fudge Easter Eggs are back! Every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday until Easter, guests can pick up an egg for $12.99 at the Candy Palace. If you don't want that much sugar, you can just watch Cast Members make them in the window of Candy Palace. No word on the flavors for this year just yet. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2023/03/10/disneys-famous-chocolate-easter-eggs-are-back/ and https://www.micechat.com/350274-disneyland-update-the-one-two-punch/ Minnie has once again returned to welcome guests to Disneyland! The Mickey floral has been replaced by the Minnie floral for International Women's Day, which was on March 8th. We expect Minnie to stay in place for at least a few weeks. – https://www.micechat.com/350274-disneyland-update-the-one-two-punch/ We talk about synergy between the Disney brands that used to happen a lot in the parks, and there is some that has come back recently. Now through April 30th at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, a special Hulu-inspired Coca-Cola Freestyle flavor will be available. The new flavor is called Hulu Fanta Suprise and helps to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the streaming service.  – https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/03/limited-time-hulu-inspired-coca-cola-freestyle-flavor-coming-to-disneyland-resort-and-walt-disney-world/ We talked about Adventureland Day last week, but our past guest Freddy Martin, better known as “Skipper Freddy” has posted a wonderful article on this year's event and what it all entails. To read all about it, check out the link in our show notes. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2023/03/khaki-crowds-descend-on-disneyland-for-adventureland-day-2023/ Discussion Topic: Don Morin – Founder and Host of PNW Mouse Meet Since 2009 Don and his team have been creating a magical experience for thousands of Guests. “Passion, Disney Fandom and giving them more than they expect are key ingredients to our success!” The PNW Mouse Meet is an unofficial Disney Fan Event that was created by Disney Fans FOR Disney Fans. This annual event provides Disney enthusiasts the opportunity to get together right here in the Pacific Northwest to share and celebrate all things Disney. https://www.youtube.com/@PNWMOUSEMEET

Pete and Vicky discuss the 2024 point charts released by Disney Vacation Club. For the first time in a few years, there were no significant changes. DVC also increased direct pricing for most resorts. Disney announced the closing date for Splash Mountain at Walt Disney World. RunDisney volunteer benefits have been reduced without notice, starting with the recent Wine & Dine Half Marathon. N099 Season 8 of the My DVC Points Podcast was brought to you by: DVC Resale Market - Industry Leader in DVC Resales DVC Rental Store - DVC Point Rentals Monera Financial - Exclusively Financing DVC Contracts Patreon supporters in the My DVC Points VIP Producer Club. DVC Points Charts Released for 2024 Disney Vacation Club released the 2024 point charts last week, and the biggest item of note was that there were no significant changes beyond the dates of the holidays shifting. This is the first time in four years that the points charts have stayed the same, as over the last three years Disney has been slowly increasing the amount of points required for staying in October and November while at the same time lowering the number of points required for summer stays. Source: Disney Vacation Club website Splash Mountain at Disney World Closing January 23rd On December 3rd, Walt Disney World announced that the final day of operation for Splash Mountain will be on January 22nd, with the ride permanently closing for good on January 23rd. There has been no announcement for the final closing date of Splash Mountain at Disneyland Resort, but the ride is expected to close soon since both rides are scheduled to re-open in late 2024 as Tiana's Bayou Adventure. Source: Walt Disney World website, Theme Park Tourist Direct Pricing Increases across Multiple DVC resorts Disney Vacation Club increased direct pricing for Aulani Disney Vacation Club Villas, Disney's Riviera Resort, and Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to have a base price of $217 per point. Many other sold-out resorts had direct pricing increase by $10 per point: Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort (now $275) Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge (now $215) Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge (now $250) Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas (now $210) Disney's Beach Club Villas (now $275) Disney's BoardWalk Villas (now $240) Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort (now $165) Disney's Vero Beach Resort (now $150) Disney's Old Key West Resort and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spas went up as well by $5 to $205 per point. The only resorts to not increase were Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and interestingly Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, which is expected to have new units opening in 2024. While direct prices are increasing, resale prices are dropping due to a large amount of units on the market. Many DVC contracts can be purchased on the resale market for up to $100 per point less than direct pricing. Source: DVC News RunDisney Reduces Benefit for Volunteers Volunteers for the recent Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend were surprised when they received park tickets that were not valid until after 1:00 p.m. In the past, Disney would mail out full-day park tickets to each volunteer within 60 days after the conclusion of a race. However, this time they were handing them out as they were leaving the event. Source: WDW News Today My DVC Points is an awesome community of DVC members. Our positive, respectful, and authentic conversations about Disney Vacation Club are designed to help people make informed and educated decisions about what's best for their families. Please join us to continue the conversations on our Facebook Group and YouTube channel. It takes an awesome community of DVC members to produce our content. We're always recruiting people to help research, produce, edit, or join our shows to share their stories. Thus far, we've had over 225 DVC members on our shows. If our content has been a blessing to your family, please consider supporting our show through our VIP Producer's Club at Patreon.com and join us for the Patreon After-Party from our live shows. Facebook admins and moderators of the My DVC Points Community Group: Sandy Symianick, Gina Grotsky, Shannon Ford, Caleb Allison, and Mary Anne Tracy. "Take Flight" music by Martinrowberry1 on Pond5.

This week, Halloween is over, so the Holidays are moving in, we have all the details, a new music box that is also a popcorn bucket?!?, PhotoPass Magic Shots get an extension, a new shopping feature, we talk about the Holiday Foodie Guide, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. If you want some DLWeekly Swag, you can pick some up at https://www.dlweekly.net/store/. Book your travel through ConciEARS at no extra cost to you! Be sure to mention that you heard about ConciEARS from DLWeekly at booking! DISCOUNTS! If you want some awesome headwear or one of a kind items, be sure to visit our friends over at All Enchanting Ears! You can use the promo code DLWEEKLY10 to get 10% off your order! We have partnered with the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground to get great deals for our listeners! Book your stay at the Howard Johnson Anaheim and get 15% off your stay (code 1000022077)! Magic Key Holders get 20% off their stay (code 1000025935) as well! Book now! Need the perfect bag for your days in the parks? Look no further than Designer Park Co.! Purchase the Rope Drop Bag as featured on Episode 222 and get 10% off your purchase! Use coupon code DLWEEKLY to get the discount. News: Halloween ended a little over a week ago, and the resort is in full swing to get ready for the holiday season starting at the end of the week. Little is left of Halloween anywhere, but if you look hard enough, there are still some spooky spots left. Otherwise, the holidays have moved in hard and fast! Garland is abound at Disneyland and California Adventure, the tree on Main Street has been installed, Sleeping Beauty Castle is a snow-capped sight to behold, and so much more! – https://www.micechat.com/338333-disneyland-news-a-storm-is-brewing/ The Festival of the Holidays is coming soon, which is why the booths have been moved out into Disney California Adventure. Spotted so far have been “Winter Sliderland,” “Visions of Sugarplums,” “Making Spirits Bright,” “Holiday Duets,” “Grandma's Recipes,” “Favorite Things,” “Brews and Bites,” and “A Twist on Tradition.” – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/11/05/photos-food-booths-are-up-for-festival-of-holidays-at-disneyland/ The holidays don't officially start at Disneyland until November 11th, but there is a ton of new merchandise that is on sale all over the resort. From Loungefly backpacks, to Minnie Ears, to Spirit Jerseys, and so much more, there is something for everyone! {talk about the options} Check out the links in our show notes for all the details and for LOTS of pictures. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/11/06/whats-new-at-disneyland-resort-over-250-pieces-of-merchandise/ and https://www.micechat.com/336345-holiday-merchandise-2022-arrives-at-disneyland/ and https://dlnewstoday.com/2022/11/new-hanukkah-merchandise-arrives-at-disneyland-resort/ What would the holiday season at Disneyland be without a cool popcorn bucket! This year, the seasonal bucket comes with a special feature: it plays music! Starting November 11th, guests can pick one of these delightful buckets up at the resort. The bucket can be wound up on the bottom like a music box, and will play music while holiday scenes rotate around the bucket, AND there is still room inside for a good amount of popcorn! – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/11/05/alert-a-musical-holiday-popcorn-bucket-is-coming-soon-to-disney-world-and-disneyland/ A new seasonal treat is coming to Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Express in Downtown Disney. This time, the beignet flavor of choice is the Maple Pecan Pie Glazed beignets. The beignets are glazed and covered in a candy pecan and graham cracker crust, and come with a side of autumn spiced creme anglaise dipping sauce. These are available now. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/11/02/maple-pecan-pie-beignets-are-now-available-in-disneyland/ Starting a little later than the kickoff to the holidays at the resort, the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will have the “Grand” Gingerbread House. The house is a replica of the hotel, standing 7 feet tall and 12 feet wide. It is made out of 600 pounds of powdered sugar, 250 pounds of fondant, and 600 pounds of gingerbread. The gingerbread house will also feature 25 hidden Mickeys adorned around the sweet model. The GCH Holiday Cart will also feature some gingerbread goodies. {check out the entire list} Inside the parks a gingerbread Mickey Ear Hat Bowl and a gingerbread Bottle Topper will be on sale.  – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/11/disney-eats-unveils-new-foodie-guide-to-cant-miss-gingerbread-displays-2022/ Festival of the Holidays hasn't started yet, but like most things for the holidays, some of the merchandise has already arrived at the resort. Festival of the Holidays 2022 pins are available in a number of different designs and are limited edition. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2022/11/festival-of-holidays-2022-pins-arrive-at-disney-california-adventure/ Magic Shots are here for the holidays from your friendly neighborhood PhotoPass photographer! There are some options in front of the Christmas tree on Buena Vista Street, and a Magic Key specific shot by Silly Symphony Swings. Guests typically have 45 days to download their Magic Shot photos through their Disneyland account before they disappeared, but that has been extended to a full calendar year! – https://dlnewstoday.com/2022/11/holiday-magic-shots-now-available-at-disney-california-adventure-photo-expiration-date-extended/ Guests who have been heading to the resort from the Harbor Boulevard side may have noticed that for a while now, the sign for the resort has been looking less than stellar. Fear not! The crews are already at work on repainting the sign and getting it back in pristine order for guests to be welcomed to Disneyland, as well as thanking guests for visiting. MiceChat thinks that it might be getting a facelift to promote Disney100, which will be centered in Disneyland. – https://www.micechat.com/338333-disneyland-news-a-storm-is-brewing/ Weeklyteers who love to shop, this next story is for you! At select locations, there is now the option to order items through mobile checkout and then come and pick it up later in the day. The store will hold the item, which could be amazing for some of the hard to get or larger items for sale in the parks. To be clear, a guest needs to go into the store and purchase the item through mobile checkout like before, but now there is an option to have them hold it for you. – https://www.micechat.com/338333-disneyland-news-a-storm-is-brewing/ Over at the Animation Building in Disney California Adventure, two sisters are back for their meet and greet! Anna and Elsa are finally back meeting with their subjects. They are really popular, so be ready to wait for a bit in line to see them. – https://www.micechat.com/338333-disneyland-news-a-storm-is-brewing/ Discussion Topic: Holiday Foodie Guide! – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/11/disney-eats-delivers-the-foodie-guide-to-holiday-treats-at-disneyland-resort-2022/

This week, MagicBand+ has come to Disneyland, the holidays are moving in on Halloween, candy cane dates have been posted, Genie+ goes sky high, along with more price increases, we continue our talk with Imagineer Mel McGowan, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. If you want some DLWeekly Swag, you can pick some up at https://www.dlweekly.net/store/. Book your travel through ConciEARS at no extra cost to you! Be sure to mention that you heard about ConciEARS from DLWeekly at booking! DISCOUNTS! If you want some awesome headwear or one of a kind items, be sure to visit our friends over at All Enchanting Ears! You can use the promo code DLWEEKLY10 to get 10% off your order! We have partnered with the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground to get great deals for our listeners! Book your stay at the Howard Johnson Anaheim and get 15% off your stay (code 1000022077)! Magic Key Holders get 20% off their stay (code 1000025935) as well! Book now! Need the perfect bag for your days in the parks? Look no further than Designer Park Co.! Purchase the Rope Drop Bag as featured on Episode 222 and get 10% off your purchase! Use coupon code DLWEEKLY to get the discount. News: This week, MagicBand+ soft-launched to Magic Key holders, Disney Vacation Club members, and cast members. MiceChat has a great guide to everything MagicBand+. Guests can pre-purchase some bands on shopDisney before their trips, but some of the designs are only available in park. The bands start at $34.99. There are 5 exclusive designs at Disneyland. – https://www.micechat.com/334202-new-disneyland-magicband-set-to-transform-theme-park-experience-this-fall/ The end of October is still about a week away, but the holidays are already moving in around the resort. The most noticable change is the snow covering the roof of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Christmas light installation has begun on Main Street for the trees, New Orleans Square has also started decorations for the holidays. – https://www.micechat.com/337251-disneyland-update-crowd-flux-holidays-collide-blues-too/ As the Halloween season nears an end, we start to look forward to the holiday season at Disneyland. The Candy Cane dates have been announced for this year. Guests can pick up a candy cane at the Candy Palace on Main Street, inside Disneyland on December 4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 20th, and 24th. Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure will have them on December 5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, and 25th. There will be a mobile waitlist like last year. Last year, the candy canes were $19.99 each, but Disney has not announced the pricing for this year. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/10/21/disneylands-famous-candy-canes-are-coming-back-soon/ and https://www.micechat.com/244458-the-essential-disneyland-candy-cane-guide/ With Genie+ moving to new, on-demand pricing recently, people have wondered how high could it go? This past weekend, it reached $30 per guest. This would add $120 per day for a family of 4. Individual Lightning Lane passes also saw the highest prices yet with Rise of the Resistance going for $25 per guest, and Radiator Springs Racers going for $20 per guest. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/10/22/genie-reaches-highest-price-yet-in-disneyland/ Last week, we talked about a lot of the price increases around the resort on a number of things. Even more increases have come to the resort in a lot of categories. Adult Spirit Jersey's have gone up to $79.99, up from $69.99, kid Spirit Jerseys have gone up from $49.99 to $54.99. Loungefly backpacks have gone up to $85, up from $75. – https://www.micechat.com/336724-merchandise-price-increases-at-the-disneyland-resort/ The new Black Panther movie “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” will be debuting on November 11th, and the Disneyland Resort is celebrating! From November 11th through January 8th, the new warrior taking on the mantle of Black Panther will be greeting guests in Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure. M'Baky will also be greeting guests, but will also be recruiting for a new experience called The Way of the Jabari. The Black Panther Celebration Garden will be next to Avengers Campus and will be a place that guests can relax and honor the legacy of Black Panther. In the Hollywood Backlot, the Flavors of Wakanda marketplace will have flavorful, spiced traditional African dishes. Props, collectibles, and more will also be available during the celebration. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/10/20/new-black-panther-wakanda-forever-experiences-revealed-for-disneyland-resort/ and https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/10/20/new-black-panther-wakanda-forever-food-drinks-announced-for-disneyland-resort/ and https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/10/black-panther-wakanda-forever-to-be-celebrated-at-avengers-campus-at-disneyland-resort/ Ahsoka Tano herself, Ashley Eckstein, will be at Disneyland on November 5th to celebrate her new book, Star Wars Everyday! The book has recipes, activities, and crafts from Star Wars. Guests who purchase a copy of the book may have the chance to meet Ashley at the Disneyana shop in Disneyland from 10am to noon, and at Star Wars Trading Post in Downtown Disney from 1pm to 3pm. Her book was released on October 25th and is available for $35.49 on Amazon in hardcover, or $13.99 for the e-book version. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/10/20/how-you-could-meet-a-star-wars-celebrity-in-disneyland/ Who knew the voice of Mickey Mouse could create some amazing artwork? Bret Iwan created artwork that will be gifted to guests staying at the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa. The artwork features Mickey sitting in a wooden chair, enjoying the hearth at the Grand Californian. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2022/10/bret-iwan-creates-artwork-to-be-gifted-to-guests-staying-at-disneys-grand-californian-hotel-spa/ A long-time Imagineer is retiring after 42 years. Bob Weis, who served most recently as Global Imagineering Ambassador after being the president of Imagineering. Bob said, “I am proud to have been an Imagineer, a collaborator, and someone who loves to do impossible things with impossibly talented people.” – https://dlnewstoday.com/2022/10/imagineer-bob-weis-retiring-from-disney-after-42-years/ The Disneyland Resort has begun a new initiative to help the surrounding community. The Disney Community Workforce Development Initiative will support 19 nonprofits, with 300 VoluntEARS contributing 2,200 hours, 67 Disney mentors, and more. Disney will give 1.5 million in grants to the program this year. – https://www.micechat.com/337251-disneyland-update-crowd-flux-holidays-collide-blues-too/ Discussion Topic: Imagineer Mel McGowan – https://www.storylandstudios.com/slsteam/mel-mcgowan/

Jeff Barnes, Ph.D., also known as "Dr. Disneyland," joins the podcast to discuss Disneyland history circa the 1990s and early 2000s when Disney's California Adventure and the Grand Californian Hotel opened up. Disney wanted to transform Disneyland from a single-day park to a multiple-day destination in Southern California. DCA and Grand Californian were essentially built in the parking lot for Disneyland. After Disney acquired the land for the current Mickey and Friends parking lot, the City of Anaheim paid to have the parking structure built to revitalize the 2-mile area surrounding Disneyland. The city wanted to transform the area into a tourist and convention district. The city used hotel taxes to fund the clean-up efforts. Disney was also considering building a second gate a few miles away in Long Beach. The city successfully kept the second park within its city limits and was able to meet its revenue goals.

This week, Halloween in April, a new After Dark event is coming to DCA, Main Street Electrical Parade Surpises, meet and greets are back in a number of ways, we talk with Sarah about how Disney changed her life, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. If you want some DLWeekly Swag, you can pick some up at https://www.dlweekly.net/store/. Book your travel through ConciEARS at no extra cost to you! Be sure to mention that you heard about ConciEARS from DLWeekly at booking! DISCOUNTS! If you want some awesome headwear or one of a kind items, be sure to visit our friends over at All Enchanting Ears! You can use the promo code DLWEEKLY10 to get 10% off your order! We have partnered with the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground to get great deals for our listeners! Book your stay at the Howard Johnson Anaheim and get 15% off your stay (code 1000022077)! Magic Key Holders get 20% off their stay (code 1000025935) as well! Book now! Need the perfect bag for your days in teh parks? Look no further than Designer Park Co.! Purchase the Rope Drop Bag as featured on Episode 222 and get 10% off your purchase! Use coupon code DLWEEKLY to get the discount. News: It seems like Halloween just happened, and yet Disney is already celebrating Halfway to Halloween. Food from Disney chefs at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World are on tap, along with a Twitter watch party for Hocus Pocus on Wednesday, April 27th at 5pm Disneyland time, which will also include some digital wallpaper downloads. On Thursday, more announcements will be made to celebrate. The Disney Parks Tik Tok account will have live content from all the Disney Parks locations, with some more surprises. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/04/join-us-for-our-biggest-and-best-disney-halfwaytohalloween-celebration-yet/ Guests visiting the Disneyland Resort in the next few days can experience the ghoulishly delicious treats to celebrate Halfway to Halloween. At Downtown Disney, there will be a Cheddar Pickle Dog at Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs through May 1st. There will also be a Spooky Churro at California Churro through May 4th. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/04/first-look-at-disneys-halfway-to-halloween-eats-and-treats/ A new Disneyland After Dark event is coming to the resort for the first time. Disneyland After Dark Grad Nite Reunion will take place on multiple nights throughout June at Disney California Adventure Park. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/04/introducing-the-first-ever-disneyland-after-dark-grad-nite-reunion/ The Main Street Electrical Parade returned this past week with a few new surprises that weren't announced. We all know about the new text on the lead float, and the reimagined finale float, but even more was changed! The intro to the parade has been reworked to include part of Walt's opening day speech, and the music has been updated for the finale float. A little bit of extra magic was added to the finale float along “its a mall world” and Main Street. Projections that tie into the Mary Blair theming of the new float are presented as it passes guests. – https://www.laughingplace.com/w/articles/2022/04/21/interview-how-disneyland-is-celebrating-the-50th-anniversary-of-the-main-street-electrical-parade/ and https://www.micechat.com/309935-big-disneyland-entertainment-returns-for-2022/ With the return of the Electrical Parade, two items have been very popular. The Eliot popcorn bucket, and the Turtle sipper drew long lines from guests wanting to get their hands on this fun collectible. Both of these items are available at multiple popcorn carts and dining locations, so be sure to check around if you are trying to get your hands on one of these. New for something this popular is the ability to mobile order these through the Disneyland app. This can save hours waiting in line. – https://www.micechat.com/309935-big-disneyland-entertainment-returns-for-2022/ The Main Street Electrical Parade may have stolen the limelight, but World of Color has also returned this past week. Unlike the Electrical Parade, this show is presented in its previous form with no new updates. Guests wanting to get the best viewing possible will want to either book a dining or dessert package, or grab a virtual queue reservation prompt at noon. The virtual queue spaces have been filling up almost instantly after being available. – https://www.micechat.com/320184-disneyland-update-electric-entertainment-magic-key-blues-rumors-too/ Character meets and greets are back at Disneyland delighting guests. A variety of interactions can be had around the parks from standing in line to see a favorite character, to a casual encounter with a character walking around. One of the longest waits for characters so far has been the Princess Fantasy Faire, with one of the shortest waits at the Fantasyland Theatre where Mickey Mouse was spotted. – https://www.micechat.com/320184-disneyland-update-electric-entertainment-magic-key-blues-rumors-too/ New Orleans Square has seen a flurry of activity and walls all over the place the last couple of months. The first section of modified tiering has been unveiled and looks pretty good. The walkways are more open and without the stairs and larger planters in the way, make it much easier for guests to get from one place to another. The brick walls around the planters make a great place for guests to sit for a break as well. – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsRCY-LribM Mother's Day is quickly approaching and there are a lot of options at the resort to take advantage of. Inside of Disneyland at the Plaza Inn, there is a Mother's Day Brunch with Minnie and her friends. At the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa lobby at the holiday cart, there is an assortment of sweet treats. Storytellers is hosting a Mother's Day Brunch and Dinner. Finally, Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel will offer a Brunch and Dinner as well. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/04/20/full-list-of-mothers-day-snacks-available-in-disney-world-disneyland/ A new kiosk has been erected outside of the Star Wars Trading Post in Downtown Disney. The appearance of this kiosk is perfect timing for the upcoming May the 4th celebration. Additional merchandise will probably be sold at this location for the event. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2022/04/new-kiosk-erected-outside-star-wars-trading-post-in-downtown-disney-district/ The culinary experts of the Disneyland Resort have done it again! The lobby of the Grand Californian is now the home to a massive edible model of Star Wars Galaxy's Edge. The display is made from Rice Krispy Treats and painstakingly painted by the food artisans. The spires of Black Spire Outpost are featured heavily, along with a large model of the Millennium Falcon. – https://fb.watch/cDMVS7ugZY/ Guests from a galaxy far. far away who have tickets for Star Wars Nite coming up can start their meal planning now. Some of the food items have already made it onto the Disneyland mobile app. – https://www.micechat.com/320184-disneyland-update-electric-entertainment-magic-key-blues-rumors-too/ Weeklyteers who might want to own a piece of Disneyland or the Walt Disney Studios history should check out the next Van Eaton Galleries Auction. The auction will feature over 900 artifacts from the company and park. Specific items include original production background from the Oswald the Lucky Rabbit cartoon “Ozzy of the Mounted,” the original artwork for a 1932 Mickey Mouse comic strip, a Gustaf Tenggren layout drawing for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, an original Walt Disney Studios animator's desk, original Mary Blair concept paintings, rare animator's maquettes, Walt Disney autographs, and much more. – https://vegalleries.com/historicjourney Visitors to the Disneyland Resort are no longer required to wear mask in most situations. Guests using First Aid, for example, will still need to wear a mask. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/04/24/news-mask-requirements-changed-for-disneyland-transportation/ There has been a lot of confusion and talk around the internet about the renew-ability of the Magic Keys. It all started with a single post online that stated that Disneyland would not allow renewal of their Dream Key. It is a lot more nuanced than that. At this point, we are still a couple of months away from the vast majority of people renewing their keys in July, since passes can be renewed 45 days before expiration. Disneyland does not seem to have made a decision on what they are going to do with renewals since the top two tiers of Magic Keys are currently sold out. – https://www.micechat.com/320184-disneyland-update-electric-entertainment-magic-key-blues-rumors-too/ Discussion Topic: Sarah M – How Disneyland Changed my Life Mom Video – https://youtu.be/Z0WVYadfAj8 Teresa's Yoga App – Apple Store – https://apps.apple.com/us/app/yoga-for-beginners-mind-body/id1382141225

This week, guests will soon be able to get up close to characters, progress has been made on some projects around the resort, Encanto will come to a new nighttime show, new Minnie ears, we finish our talk about our wedding trip, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. If you want some DLWeekly Swag, you can pick some up at https://www.dlweekly.net/store/. Book your travel through ConciEARS at no extra cost to you! Be sure to mention that you heard about ConciEARS from DLWeekly at booking! DISCOUNTS! If you want some awesome headwear or one of a kind items, be sure to visit our friends over at All Enchanting Ears! You can use the promo code DLWEEKLY10 to get 10% off your order! We have partnered with the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground to get great deals for our listeners! Book your stay at the Howard Johnson Anaheim and get 15% off your stay (code 1000022077)! Magic Key Holders get 20% off their stay (code 1000025935) as well! Book now! Need the perfect bag for your days in teh parks? Look no further than Designer Park Co.! Purchase the Rope Drop Bag as featured on Episode 222 and get 10% off your purchase! Use coupon code DLWEEKLY to get the discount. News In an interview with the Orange County Register, Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock made the shocking comment that the phased reopening of the resort is just now at the halfway point. He said that the phased reopening will take at least another year. The resort has rehired or hired 28,000 cast members to bring the current staff to 30,000, 2,000 shy of pre-pandemic levels. Potrock also commented on the ability for the resort to move quickly and try different things, even if they are not perfect, knowing that they will get to a right place in the end. – https://www.ocregister.com/2022/04/01/disneyland-resort-president-ken-potrock-takes-stock-at-halfway-point-of-phased-reopening/ As early as April 18th, guests will once again be able to get up close and personal with their favorite Disney characters in the parks, resorts, and cruise ships! Not all locations will return immediately, but characters will return in a phased approach through spring and early summer. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/03/disney-character-greetings-returning-to-u-s-sites-this-spring/ There is a lot of construction on the west side of the park at the moment, but progress is being made! The pits around the end of Tom Sawyer Island have been filled again, after sitting covered and drained for work to be performed over the last couple of months in preparation for Fantasmic! This means that the rafts to the island can use the normal dock again and make the trip to and from the island faster. The Sailing Ship Columbia has also returned to service following it's refurbishment. – https://www.micechat.com/318431-disneyland-update-secret-entry-character-hugs-hyperspace-mountain-park-photos/ Encanto fans rejoice! The movie, which recently won an Academy Award for best animated feature, is coming to the facade of it's a small world! Starting on April 11th, for a limited time, the facade will come alive with a montage paying tribute to the hit song “We Don't Talk About Bruno.” Like the casita in the movie, tiles across it's a small world facade will flip, turn, and rearrange themselves between scenes. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/04/celebrate-disney-animations-award-winning-encanto-this-spring-at-disneyland-resort/ A staple of the summer season at Disneyland is returning for the first time in three years! The All-American College Band will be playing down Main Street once again this summer. The program was suspended due to COVID and the resort being closed. 21 members of the band are chosen from over 300 applicants each year. During the hiatus, the program celebrated its 50th anniversary. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2022/04/disneyland-all-american-college-band-returning-this-summer/ Guests staying at the Paradise Pier Hotel will soon have easier access to Disney California Adventure! A new back entrance is under construction near the driveway into the Grand Californian Hotel. – https://www.micechat.com/318431-disneyland-update-secret-entry-character-hugs-hyperspace-mountain-park-photos/ Marvel fans have yet another character to see in Avengers Campus! Moon Knight, which debuted last week on Disney+, has arrived at the campus to visit with guests. Moon Knight only shows up after dark on top of the Avengers Headquarters for a few minutes at a time, so check back often after dark if you want to catch a glimpse of this new character! – https://www.micechat.com/318431-disneyland-update-secret-entry-character-hugs-hyperspace-mountain-park-photos/ April is here, and with it the return of the classic Mickey floral in front of the Disneyland Train Station. Minnie Mouse had taken over the arrangement for March as part of Women's History Month. It was the first time that Mickey was not the “face” of the park. – https://www.micechat.com/318431-disneyland-update-secret-entry-character-hugs-hyperspace-mountain-park-photos/ Minnie Mouse has dropped a large collection of new ears in the parks! Five new ear designs are available now at the Emporium at Disneyland. The ears include a Kelly Green Sequin set of ears, which are simmering green for $29.99, also available online, a Gold Sequin set with a blue bow and sequin gold ears for $34.99, a Princess Tiana BaubleBar set, featuring Tiana's green color on the ears and band, and a gold crown and rhinestone accents, for $49.99, also online. Two new sets of coach ears, available in white and red, for $295 each and are made from real leather. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/04/01/photos-5-new-minnie-ears-have-arrived-in-disneyland/ The culinary experts at the Disneyland Resort are at it again! Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Express is now serving up cookies and cream beignets! Guests can purchase a 4-pack of these yummy treats for $12.99. They are topped with cookies and cream icing and chocolate cookie crumbles. Weeklyteers who are fans of Oreos or chocolate will love these. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2022/04/03/review-disney-1000-understood-the-assignment-with-its-cookies-cream-beignets/ The Walt Disney Company has been working to protect the planet with a number of environmentally friendly steps over the last few years. Disney Planet Possible is the collective effort to make a more positive impact in these regards. In December, 2020, the company announced the ambitious goals for 2030, focusing on achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions with their direct operations. Since then, two new solar facilities will be coming online near Walt Disney World in 2023, solar arrays have been installed at Castaway Cay and Hong Kong Disneyland, 61% of total company operational waste has been diverted from landfills, and launched plastic-free packaging for a line of classic dolls. Visit the link in the show notes for more information on what the company is doing. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/04/disney-planet-possible-sharing-the-actions-were-taking-to-protect-the-planet/ Discussion Topic: Wedding Trip Report from Tage and Teresa