Chairs have returned to the Tune-Up Lounge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. What’s Happening: Since the Tune-Up lounge reopened, bar stools haven’t been made available. Likely due to distancing and health protocols, the bar was made for walk-ups and standing room only. Now, bright orange chairs now align the bar for guests wanting to take a […]
The post Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Tune-Up Lounge Returns Chairs to Bar appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
One of the highlights of a visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is using a wand to cast spells. This magical experience allows wizards, witches, and even Muggles to try their hand at magic at the Universal Orlando Resort.
Rumors suggest that new interactive wands will debut ahead of Epic Universe and new spells will be added around the current parks. Over the last few months, we’ve noticed changes around the different spells that indicate this rumor could be true.
Spells around Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade have been getting upgraded cameras over the last few months. Whenever a spell was having a new infrared camera installed, the window would have a sign or it would be blocked by construction walls.
Outside of Dervish and Banges, the Owl Post window has been blocked by construction walls for the last few weeks. This was not a spell location, but it was blocked off like some of the spells have been during their upgrades.
This window was best known for having the Howler, and you could often hear it “yelling” through the window. The walls were removed from the window, showing that the display has changed slightly. Looking closer, it appears this window could be getting prepped for a new spell.
The center of the window has a brown paper-wrapped box with a perfect hole removed from it. This looks like it could be the location of a camera for a new spell.
Upon closer inspection, it looks like the box has plenty of room inside to mount a camera. The window display has changed and there does appear to be a few spots that could have new effects.
The bottom of the window display has a large piece of paper that looks like it will have writing magically appear on it. This could be part of a spell, or it could just be a new effect added to the Owl Post window.
Over the last few months, spells around both Wizarding World lands have been getting updated cameras. This will greatly improve guests’ ability to cast spells, but there are rumors that there are other reasons for the change. New wands that can connect to the Universal Orlando app are rumored to roll out sometime before Epic Universe opens next year.
Universal has connected gameplay for Illumination Villain-Con Minion Blast and guests can sync their blaster to their profile on the Universal Orlando app. Guests of Super Nintendo World can link a Power-Up Band to the app to collect coins and track their progress. These new interactive wands could likely be similar to Power-Up Bands and allow guests to link to the Universal Orlando app. The new wands could be used to track guests’ progress with spells and allow them to unlock new features.
Old wands would still work with the spells, but would not allow guests to connect and access new features within the resort app. New wands would be required to track progress through the Universal connected gameplay feature.
Universal Orlando was greatly discounting interactive wands during the garage sale last year. Interactive wands were being sold at 70% off. Now, Universal Orlando is offering a free interactive wand with the purchase of a $300 merchandise gift card. Universal Orlando may be slowly getting rid of the current stock of Wizarding World wands in anticipation of rolling out a new series of wands in the future.
Details have not been released for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic — the Harry Potter-themed land coming to Epic Universe — yet, so there’s a chance more details will come soon. Stay tuned for more details on this story and for more Epic Universe announcements.
For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.
The post RUMOR: New Spells and Wands Coming Soon to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter appeared first on WDW News Today.
Disney has unveiled the highly anticipated trailer for “Mufasa: The Lion King,” a prequel to the beloved 2019 photorealistic remake of the classic animated film. Directed by the critically acclaimed Barry Jenkins, this upcoming movie promises to delve deep into the origins of the iconic lion king, Mufasa, and his complex relationship with his brother Scar, who eventually becomes his nemesis.
The trailer opens with the wise mandrill shaman Rafiki, voiced by John Kani, setting the stage for the untold tale of Mufasa’s rise to power. “This story begins far beyond the mountains and the shadows, on the other side of the light,” Rafiki narrates. “A lion was born without a drop of nobility in his blood, a lion who would change our lives forever: Mufasa.” As the trailer unfolds, we are introduced to a young, orphaned Mufasa, voiced by Aaron Pierre, who encounters a kind lion named Taka, the heir to a royal bloodline.
Taka, portrayed by Kelvin Harrison Jr., welcomes Mufasa into his family as a brother, setting the stage for an expansive journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. The trailer teases the introduction of new, never-before-seen locations, including a stunning snowy environment, hinting at the vast and diverse landscapes that Mufasa and his companions will traverse. Additionally, the swelling score promises to continue the Disney series’ reputation for captivating music, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the film’s original songs. Original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who we all know and love!
“Mufasa: The Lion King” boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring both returning and new voices. Reprising their roles from the 2019 remake are Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, and Billy Eichner as Timon. Joining the cast is Beyoncé’s daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, who makes her acting debut as Kiara, the daughter of Simba and Nala.
Among the new additions are Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki, Preston Nyman as Zazu, and Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, a formidable lion with grand ambitions for his pride. Thandiwe Newton and Lennie James lend their voices to Taka’s parents, Eshe and Obasi, respectively, while Anika Noni Rose and Keith David voice Mufasa’s parents, Afia and Masego.
Musfasa Lion KingHelming the project is Barry Jenkins, the Academy Award-winning director of “Moonlight” and “If Beale Street Could Talk.” Jenkins has expressed his excitement about the opportunity to expand the beloved “Lion King” franchise, stating, “Growing up in the ’90s, I helped my sister raise two young boys. These characters have been a part of my life. The opportunity to collaborate with Disney on expanding this magnificent tale of friendship, love, and legacy, while furthering my work chronicling the lives and souls of folk within the African diaspora, is a dream come true.”
Joining Jenkins is the talented songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator of the acclaimed Broadway musical “Hamilton.” Miranda has been tasked with writing the film’s original songs, co-producing them alongside Mark Mancina, who worked on the 2019 remake. Additionally, the legendary South African composer Lebo M, known for his contributions to the original “Lion King” soundtrack, will provide additional vocals and performances.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is the latest addition to Disney’s ever-expanding “Lion King” franchise, which has captivated audiences for generations. The 1994 animated classic grossed an impressive $960 million worldwide, while the 2019 photorealistic remake amassed a staggering $1.6 billion at the global box office. With its stunning visuals, star-studded cast, and the promise of an epic tale of friendship, love, and destiny, Disney Mufasa is poised to continue the franchise’s legacy and introduce a new generation to the wonders of the Pridelands.
As the release date of December 20, 2024, draws closer, anticipation for Lion King Mufasa continues to build. Disney has once again demonstrated its commitment to bringing beloved stories to life with cutting-edge technology and exceptional storytelling. With Barry Jenkins at the helm and an all-star cast, this prequel promises to be a cinematic experience that will captivate audiences of all ages and further cement the “Lion King” franchise’s place in the pantheon of timeless tales.
Disney Releases the Captivating Trailer for “Mufasa: The Lion King”
Disney Parks Foodie Guide Mother’s Day 2024
Walt Disney World Railroad Ride Review
NEW Wreck-It Ralph Themed Ride Coming to Tokyo Disneyland
The Omnimover: Disney’s Innovative Ride System
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room Ride Review | Disney World
Celebrate 60 years of “it’s a small world” with a photo op at Disneyland Park.
This stage on the small world promenade was installed for Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite, but is now decked out with “it’s a small world” theming.
There are two flat 60th anniversary props that guests can hold up. One features the Tower of the Four Winds, a kinetic sculpture created by Rolly Crump for the ride’s debut at the New York World’s Fair. “it’s a small world,” “Celebrating 60 years,” “New York World’s Fair Debut 1964,” and “Disneyland Resort” are on the prop.
Another prop features a dozen “it’s a small world” characters in a blue boat. The same words are printed on this prop.
“it’s a small world” opened at the New York World’s Fair on April 22, 1964. After a successful run at the fair, it moved to Disneyland, where it opened on May 28, 1966. Other versions of the now iconic ride are at Magic Kingdom, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disneyland. The latter will be getting a Groot-inspired Marvel overlay soon. Read our full history of “it’s a small world.”
Check out the “it’s a small world” merchandise recently released at Disneyland Resort.
For more Disneyland Resort news and info, follow Disneyland News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news worldwide, visit WDWNT.
The post “it’s a small world” 60th Anniversary Photo Op Now Available at Disneyland appeared first on WDW News Today.
Mother’s Day this year May 12th, 2024 is a special occasion to honor and celebrate the incredible women who have nurtured, guided, and loved us unconditionally. What better way to show your appreciation than by treating your mom to a magical day at the Happiest Place on Earth? Disneyland Park and Walt Disney World Park are pulling out all the stops to make this Mother’s Day truly unforgettable, with an array of delectable dining experiences, enchanting photo opportunities, and heartwarming surprises.
This amazing foodie guide will take you on a culinary journey through the parks, highlighting the best restaurants, menus, and offerings tailored specifically for Mother’s Day 2024. From elegant character dining to indulgent buffets and themed treats, there’s something to delight every mom’s taste buds. So, get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will create cherished memories for years to come.
The Mara (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available)
Mother’s Day CroissantBeach Club Marketplace (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available)
BoardWalk Deli and Carousel Coffee (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available at BoardWalk Deli only)
Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette (Available May 5 through 18)
Pineapple Lanai (Available May 5 through 18)
The Market at Ale & Compass (Available May 5 through 18; mobile order available)
Amorette’s Patisserie (Available May 5 through 12; mobile order available)
The Ganachery (Available May 1 through 12)
Plaza Inn (Available May 12 only)
Grand Californian Great Hall Cart (Available May 3 through 13)
Storytellers Cafe (Available May 12 only from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
Some of the top restaurants for Disney World Mother’s Day are California Grill, Narcoossee’s, Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera, Sanaa, and Jiko – The Cooking Place. These restaurants offer special Mother’s Day menus, brunch buffets, and stunning views, making them perfect for celebrating the occasion.
Disney World offers a variety of special treats for Mother’s Day, such as the Mother’s Day Cookie Bouquet at Beach Club Marketplace, the Bouquet Shake at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, and the Pistachio-raspberry Éclair at Le Petit Café. Other offerings include the Mother’s Day Flowers DOLE Whip Float at Pineapple Lanai and the Mother’s Day Donut at Jolly Holiday Bakery Café. Give her a great Disney happy Mother’s Day!
Some of the best photo spots for Mother’s Day at Disney World include Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom, the Flower and Garden Festival in EPCOT, Disney’s BoardWalk, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney Springs. These locations offer beautiful backdrops and photo opportunities to capture special moments with mom.
Yes, Disney Parks go all out to celebrate Mother’s Day with special dining experiences, themed treats, photo opportunities, and other offerings. At Disneyland, restaurants like Carthay Circle Restaurant, Blue Bayou Restaurant, and Napa Rose offer special Mother’s Day menus. At Walt Disney World, there are Mother’s Day brunches, dining packages, and unique food items available.
Crowd levels at Disney Parks on Mother’s Day can vary, but generally, it is not considered an extremely crowded time. Some reports suggest that park crowds may not be significantly higher on Mother’s Day, but restaurants offering brunch or special meals can be quite busy. It’s recommended to make dining reservations in advance if you plan to visit on Mother’s Day.
While specific details for Mother’s Day 2024 on Disney Cruise Line are not yet available, Disney Cruise Line typically offers special activities, treats, and surprises to honor mothers on their ships. This may include themed desserts, photo opportunities, and other unique offerings to make moms feel extra special during their cruise vacation.
It’s recommended to make dining reservations for Mother’s Day at Disney World as early as possible, ideally 60–180 days in advance. Popular restaurants offering special Mother’s Day menus and brunches tend to book up quickly, so securing reservations well in advance is crucial to ensure availability.
Some gift ideas for Mother’s Day at Disney World include spa treatments at Senses – A Disney Spa, personalized gift baskets or floral arrangements from the Disney Floral & Gifts team, and shopping at Disney Springs for merchandise from brands like Alex and Ani, Dooney & Bourke, PANDORA, and Vera Bradley
Whether you’re celebrating at Disneyland Park or Walt Disney World Park, Mother’s Day 2024 promises to be a truly magical and delicious affair. From elegant character dining to indulgent buffets and themed treats, these parks have curated a diverse array of culinary experiences to honor the special women in our lives. As you plan your Disney Mother’s Day festivities, remember to make reservations well in advance to secure your spot at these highly sought-after dining destinations.
And don’t forget to capture the precious moments with your mom, whether it’s through enchanting photo opportunities or simply savoring the joy of being together in the Happiest Place on Earth. Be sure to check out our Disney Mother’s Day gifts post! So, gather your loved ones, embrace the magic, and embark on a gastronomic journey that will create lasting memories for years to come. Happy Mother’s Day!
We recently got a preview of the new Disney Vacation Club cabins heading to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground. Inside, the design is filled with odes to Chip ‘n’ Dale, everyone’s favorite chipmunks. They take centerstage all over the rooms, with signatures, wood artwork, and small mural details. This collage features many a references to the […]
The post Photos: Inside Disney Vacation Club’s New Fort Wilderness Cabins appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
Guest rooms at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will undergo a refurbishment in early 2025.
An announcement on the resort’s landing page reads:
From January through May 2025, some Guest rooms at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will be under refurbishment. While Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours, most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.
Note that the announcement says only “some” guest rooms will be refurbished.
We previously reported that Yacht Club’s feature pool, Stormalong Bay, will be closed for refurbishment from January to June 2025. The pool’s bridges were refurbished in 2022.
In the past few years, the lobby and exterior of Disney’s Yacht Club were also refurbished.
Read about a lake view room at Disney’s Yacht Club or watch our video tour below.
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
The post Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Guest Rooms to be Refurbished in 2025 appeared first on WDW News Today.
Celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day photo op presented by AdventHealth in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World.
A “Mom!” sign is in a flowerbed where guests can take photos. Note that there will not necessarily be a PhotoPass photographer available but regular Cast Members can take your picture with your phone or camera.
The letters of “Mom!” are blue with pink flowers and green leaves.
There are signs guests can hold up. These have borders that match the “Mom!” sign and blue lettering in the center. One is an arrow reading “Mom’s Favorite.”
A heart-shaped sign reads “Moms are incredible.”
A simple rectangle has “#MomLife.”
A circle reads, “Mom squad!”
Another rectangle says, “Mom-to-be.”
![A speech bubble-shaped sign that says "We [heart] Mom".](https://media.wdwnt.com/2024/04/wdw-ds-mom-photo-op-3865.jpg "Mother's Day Photo Op and Flower Seed Postcards Available at Disney Springs 8")
A speech bubble sign reads “We [heart] mom,” with the heart made of flowers.
A circular sign reads “First Mother’s Day!”
And a starburst sign says, “We’re expecting!” They all feature the AdventHealth for Women logo, too.
Cast Members at a nearby table are handing out postcards to guests. The fronts of these white cards read, “Happy Mother’s Day!” in a circle of flowers.
The cards are made of a material full of seeds that can be safely planted to grow flowers.
The photo op and postcard station is on the West Side of Disney Springs, near the Orange Garage and AMC Dine-In Theaters entrance, across from the Coca-Cola Store.
Check out the Mother’s Day menu items coming to Walt Disney World.
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
The post Mother’s Day Photo Op and Flower Seed Postcards Available at Disney Springs appeared first on WDW News Today.
We’ve all been anxiously watching for news from Universal Orlando Resort about Universal Epic Universe opening in 2025, but did you know DreamWorks Land featuring characters from “Shrek,” “Trolls,” “Kung Fu Panda,” and more will open in Universal Studios Florida on June 14, 2024, including the family-friendly Trollercoaster and, believe or not, Shrek’s outhouse? But […]
The post Universal Orlando News: DreamWorks Land Opening, Nightime Shows & New Parade! appeared first on MiceChat.
Tokyo Disney Resort has released official photographs of the upcoming Fantasy Springs Resort. The whimsically refined hotel is shown in the swirled architecture and the Disney characters adorning the rock formations around the outdoor paths. The indoor restaurant keeps this refined aesthetic going with large windows and lush green accents. The Fantasy Chateau rooms feature […]
The post Photos: Tokyo Disney Resort’s Fantasy Springs Hotel appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
