For current Around WDW news, click here

27 December 2006:  Pirates of the Caribbean: Adventures on the 7 Seas Lagoon

Disney are presenting a special Pirates of the Caribbean package to coincide with the opening of the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie. "Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End".

Event: Pirates of the Caribbean: Adventures on the 7 Seas Lagoon
Event Dates: May 22-25, 2007
Event Location: DISNEY'S CONTEMPORARY Resort

"Ahoy Me Hearties – On May 22, 2007, prepare yourselves for a three-day adventure unlike any that has been seen this side of the 7 Seas Lagoon.

Set yer' compass towards uncharted territories and brace the helm as ye' journey into the unknown depths of the sea. Be on the look out for the Pirates of the Caribbean and the surprises and thrills that are lurking behind the dark and dreary coves of the Lagoon.

And if it's treasure yer' heart be fancying, then venture to the mucky port of Tortuga, where ye' be sure to find the finest pirate treasures in all the land. But beware this port of riches; swabs like you and their treasures, have been known to disappear…"

The event is available at several different tiers, ranging from $2350 per guest, to $199 per guest.

Tier 1 details can be found here.
Tier 2 details can be found here.
Tier 3 details can be found here.

Reservations begin January 11, 2007 at 2 PM Eastern/ 11AM Pacific.

*Please note, this event is NOT the World Premier of Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End*

20 December 2006: January 2007 press events

Disney are holding some press-only events in late January to officially open some recent attractions, and to make some announcements for new projects. Remember, these are for invited press only. If you are in the parks during these days, check the operating hours, as they are sometimes modified to accommodate the events.

The event will kick off on Wednesday January 24th 2007 with the premiere event for Finding Nemo - The Musical. Later that evening, The Living Seas with Nemo and Friends will have it's grand opening event.

Thursday 25th January 2007 will see the events move over to the Magic Kingdom, where the media will get a first look at The Laugh Floor Comedy Club and the Cinderella Castle Suite.

Friday January 26th 2007 will see some future project announcements.

16 December 2006: Tampa Bay Devil Rays announce plans to play some regular-season games at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays have made an announcement that the team will play three 2007 regular season games at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. The Devil Rays will host the Texas Rangers May 15-17, 2007 at The Ballpark at Disney's Wide World of Sports. The games are subject to the approval of the St. Petersburg City Council. Tickets will go on sale Feb. 17, 2007.

6 December 2006: Latest Pleasure Island construction photos

Here are some photos showing the current state of Pleasure Island during it's extensive refurbishment. For a list of the changes being made, see the 13 March 2006 update below.

 
Above: The newly relocated Harley Davidson store in the former Changing Attitudes and Reel Finds location

 
Above: The new bridge connecting the Westside to the centre of Pleasure Island

 
Above: The view from the previous West End Stage location

 
Above: Construction walls around the Planet Hollywood area

 
Above: Some of the closed shops, Superstar Studios, DTV, Missing Link Sausage Company, Zen Zone

 
Above: The new boat dock

4 December 2006: Details of this years Christmas morning Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- With the enchantment of the holiday season here, Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts invite America to celebrate Christmas morning. Co-hosts Regis Philbin, Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest will bring the magic of Disney Parks to viewers nationwide as the Emmy Award-winning "Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade" airs on the ABC Television Network on Dec. 25 at 10 a.m. Eastern (9 a.m. Central, Mountain and Pacific times.)

For more than 20 years, families have made the "Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade" part of their Christmas Day television tradition. This year, children, parents and grandparents alike can enjoy a parade of Disney's most treasured characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pinocchio, Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Ariel and Jasmine. Disney Channel favorites including Little Einsteins, Stanley and JoJo's Circus will also be part of the show.

As Disney Parks commemorates "The Year of a Million Dreams," an event that celebrates guests' Disney dreams, this year's parade features "dream" performances from both Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California. Plus, viewers will get a sneak peek at the newest Disney attractions and happenings.

The two-hour show features a star-studded celebrity guest list with scheduled appearances and musical performances by award-winning singer and film star Beyonce; recording artist and composer Daniel Powter; acclaimed Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli; Mexican pop group RBD; tween singing sensation Bianca Ryan; Playhouse Disney's Doodlebops; Disney Channel star Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montana; Disney Channel's blockbuster "High School Musical" stars Lucas Grabeel, Corbin Bleu, Monique Coleman and Ashley Tisdale; Grammy Award-winner Michael Bolton; pop performers Paris Bennett, Kevin Covais, Ace Young and Mandisa; sister act Aly & AJ; Travel Channel host Samantha Brown; and "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" designers extraordinaire Ty Pennington, Paige Hemmis and Eduardo Xol.

Along with the impressive list of performers, Disney favorites take center stage at Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom as they spread holiday cheer right down the middle of Main Street, U.S.A.

WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT in FLORIDA presents:

• A Christmas tree float with hosts Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse
• Toyland military and the Toy Soldiers marching to the Toyland March
• Santa's Workshop float featuring Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, Bullseye and the Green Army Sergeant from "Toy Story"
• Disney•Pixar's cars with Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater
• Royal Unit float featuring Disney princesses -- Cinderella, Belle and Jasmine
• Pirates float featuring swashbuckling Disney pirates
• Show boat with B'rer Bear, B'rer Rabbit and Dixieland band
• Ice pond float with Donald Duck and Daisy Duck
• Bake shoppe with dancing gingerbread men, candy cane maids and elves
• Santa float featuring the big guy himself and his famous reindeer

DISNEYLAND RESORT in CALIFORNIA presents:

• A Christmas fantasy float with stuffed bear, ballerina and a music box
• Santa's cottage with mail room elves, Chicken Little and Abby Mallard
• Toy Humvee with prankster chipmunks Chip 'n' Dale
• Toy factory float with Playhouse Disney pals -- Stanley, Goliath, JoJo, Rolie
• Winter wonderland with snow people and ice skating snowflakes
• Ice rink with Goofy and his son Max
• Cookbook float with candy bakers and dancers
• Candy house with Pluto along with gingerbread men
• Candlelight ball with Snow White and Prince Charming, Sleeping Beauty and Prince Phillip, and Mulan and Shang
• Jeweled tree float with the Seven Dwarfs
• Finale dancers pave the way for Rudolph and reindeer, with the lovable alien Stitch in his favorite Santa costume

In addition, the show will feature floats and elements from the "Disney Dreams Come True" parade at Walt Disney World Resort and "Parade of Dreams" at Disneyland Resort.

This year's program will be broadcast in English and Spanish (SAP).
 

21 November 2006: Hess gas station reopened

The Hess gas station near to the Magic Kingdom has now reopened after it's refurbishment.

7 November 2006: Disney planning a new Western Beltway Property

Disney are rumored to be planning a new tourist and retail development near to the newly constructed Western Way junction with the Western Beltway. The focus of the development is set to be "value" based, and includes shopping, dining, and accommodation. Whilst not yet named, the project is currently labelled as the "Western Beltway Property".

Features:

• 270,000 sq ft retail town centre, expanding up to 400,000 sq ft at build-out
• Retail outlets
• Grocery store
• Casual sit-down dining
• Fast food locations
• Gas stores
• Convenience stores
• Gift stores
• 3100 value hotel rooms
• 1300 time share units
• Bus transportation stops

The project is currently divided into 5 phases, with the initial phase to include the hotel and retail town centre. Something that sets this apart from other developments, is the inclusion of elements such as a town centre, featuring a park, fountains and foot paths. The development is planned to be landscaped, and walker-friendly.

There is currently no timeline available, or confirmation that the project will go ahead. It is however in a detailed planning phase.

Discuss at http://forums.wdwmagic.com/showthread.php?t=111584

19 October 2006: Cirque du Soleil auditions being held in Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. -- For its 13 current productions and upcoming creations, Cirque du Soleil is seeking new talent and will be holding acrobatics, circus and martial arts auditions in Orlando on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 29, 30 and 31, 2006.

The Cirque du Soleil Casting Team is continually on the lookout for new and talented artists. Our scouts search the globe for outstanding artists who are ready to embark on a new adventure. The casting team of Cirque du Soleil will hold auditions at the La Nouba theatre in Downtown Disney West Side. These auditions are intended for those who dream of becoming a part of the Cirque du Soleil experience, of pursuing new challenges and pushing back the limits of the possible.

Holding auditions is the primary means by which Cirque du Soleil recruits new talent. The Casting Team is eager to return to Orlando to discover local talent and the best way to do so is by giving them the opportunity to meet with us.

Since 1984, Cirque du Soleil has carved out a special niche for itself in the world of performing arts. Through a mix of street performance, circus arts, dance, theatre, music and singing, Cirque du Soleil has given life to a magical new universe. With its original music and performances, Cirque du Soleil always tries to challenge the limits of the human body and spirit.

Please note that to audition, candidates need to send their resumes to the head office of Cirque du Soleil in Montréal, or visit our Web site at cirquedusoleil.com and click on "casting" or directly log on:

http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/jobs/onstage/default.htm

THE ORLANDO AUDITIONS ARE BY INVITATION ONLY.

19 October 2006: Disney announce a plan to eliminate all added trans fats and to provide well balanced meals for children

BURBANK, CA, October 17, 2006 – As part of The Walt Disney Company’s new food guidelines to promote healthier kids’ diets, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts today announced that well-balanced meals for children will now become the standard offering at Disney-operated restaurants and kiosks at its U.S. parks. In addition, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts announced a plan to eliminate all added trans fats* and improve the nutritional value and enhance the taste of most of its food offerings for kids and adults by the end of 2007.

The Walt Disney Company’s new food guidelines, which were announced on October 16, are aimed at giving parents and children healthier eating options. The guidelines will govern Disney’s business partnerships and activities in the U.S. on a going-forward basis and will be adapted internationally over the next several years. In addition to the efforts at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Disney Consumer Products has already begun to offer many licensed products that comply with the guidelines.

Well-Balanced Kids Meals

Designed to encourage better eating habits with more nutritious side dishes and beverages, the revised kids meals have been available since the beginning of October. They include a beverage choice of low fat milk, 100 percent fruit juice or water and a side dish such as unsweetened applesauce, baby carrots or fresh fruit.

“This is a terrific initiative because it makes it easier for parents, even while on vacation, to provide their children with a well-balanced meal with kid appeal,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “An overwhelming majority of parents tell us they prefer the more nutritious meals for their children over other options.”

Millions of children’s meals were served last year at Disney’s 180 restaurants and more than 200 food carts and kiosks. More nutritious side dishes and beverages, which have been available within the parks and resorts for the last three years, are now being offered prominently on menus and in signage as the standard children’s meal, rather than as a secondary choice.

Guest research conducted last summer at pilot locations in Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resort, where 20,000 revised kids’ meals were served, showed that 77 to 90 percent of the parents, respectively, stayed with fruit or vegetable side options when they were offered first. Recognizing that visits to Disney parks are vacations, parents will still be able to request more indulgent meals and snacks from a wide variety of food offerings.

Out With the Added Trans Fat

As part of a pilot program, The ESPN Zone restaurant, located at Downtown Disney in Anaheim, California, and the ABC Commissary at Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World Resort, removed added trans fat from chicken tenders, French fries and frying oils – and the reviews have been good. Guest research conducted at the Downtown Disney ESPN Zone showed that 71 percent of Guests rated the taste of the fries as “excellent” or “very good.”

“The food & beverage teams at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts want to use our creativity and innovation to partner with parents in making well-balanced meals appealing, accessible, great tasting and fun,” said Mary Niven, vice president, Disneyland Resort Food and Beverage.

Other New Items on the Menu

In addition to removing all added trans fats from foods served in the parks and resorts over the next 12 months, Disney will be constantly looking for ways to improve the nutritional profiles and taste of its most popular entrees, including low fat and vegetarian options.

Other changes include:

• Introducing a new Guest-tested hamburger formulation with fat content not to exceed 20 percent and hamburger buns with 10 percent whole wheat
• Testing new pizza offerings with lower bread and lower-fat cheese content
• Working with manufacturers in reformulating recipes for candy, packaged foods and bakery items sold at the parks or identifying replacement products
• Ensuring compelling packaging for the more nutritious food offerings as well as portion-controlled snacks and treats.

*According to the Food and Drug Administration, “trans fat is made when manufacturers add hydrogen to vegetable oil, a process called hydrogenation. Trans fat can be found in vegetable shortenings, some margarines, crackers, cookies, snack foods, and other foods made with or fried in partially hydrogenated oils. This process increases the shelf life and flavor stability of foods that contain these fats. Like saturated fat and dietary cholesterol, trans fat raises the risk of heart disease.”

8 September 2006: New La Nouba pricing and seating categories confirmed

It has been confirmed that there is a price increase and new seating category for shows 1 October 2006 and beyond.

Front & Center $112.00 Adult $90.00 Child
CATEGORY 1 $97.00 Adult $78.00 Child
CATEGORY 2 $79.00 Adult $63.00 Child
CATEGORY 3 $63.00 Adult $50.00 Child
Adults are ages 10+, children are ages 3-9. Price does not include tax.

Front & Center: (new)
Section 103 - All Rows, All Seats

CATEGORY 1: (revised)
Section: 102, and 104 - All Rows, All Seats
Section: 203, 204 and 205 Rows AA through DD, All Seats

CATEGORY 2: (unchanged)
Section: 101 - Rows A through G, All Seats; Row H, Seats 6 through 16
Section: 105 - Rows A through G, All Seats; Row H, Seats 1 through 11
Section: 202 - Rows AA through HH, All Seats
Section: 203, 204 and 205 - Rows EE through LL, All Seats
Section: 206 - Rows AA through HH, All Seats

CATEGORY 3: (unchanged)
Section: 101 - Row H, Seats 1 through 5
Section: 105 - Row H, Seats 12 through 16
Section: 201 - Rows AA through CC, All Seats; Row DD, Seats 3 through 8; Row EE, Seats 4 through 7; Row FF, Seats 5 through 7; Row GG, Seat 6
Sections: 202 - Rows JJ through KK, All Seats; Row LL, Seats 3 through 20
Section: 206 - Row JJ, Seats 1 through 21; Row KK, Seats 1 through 20; Row LL, Seats 1 through 17
Section: 207 - Row AA, Seats 1 through 10; Row BB, Seats 1 through 8; Row CC, Seats 1 through 6; Row DD, Seats 1 through 5; Row EE, Seats 1 through 3; Row FF, Seats 1 and 2

All pre-purchased tickets for performances on or after 10/1/06, will be honored. All tickets sold on 8/27 and beyond for performances on or after 10/1/06 were sold at the new above pricing.
 

1 September 2006: Possibilities of a La Nouba price rise

La Nouba at Downtown Disney Westside is being rumored to be having a price increase in the near future. Recently some restructuring of the seating categories was implemented, with a new 'Front and Center' category being added to the existing Category 1, 2 and 3. The information suggests that the new 'Front and Center' section may increase to around $140, along with increases for the other categories as well. This is not yet officially confirmed, and as always is subject to change.

You can book tickets at the current prices, with the new seating categories at the official La Nouba site at http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/showstickets/lanouba/TicketsGeneral/tickets

31 August 2006: Hess Gas Station at the Disney Car Care Center redevelopment

The Hess Gas Station at the Disney Car Care Center (Magic Kingdom Toll Plaza area) closed on August 21 2006 for an extensive refurbishment to last approximately three months. Once it reopens, a brand-new structure will house 4000 square feet of merchandise, as well as food and beverage space enhanced by a unique theme approved by Walt Disney Imagineering. During the construction period, the Disney Car Care Center and Alamo Car Rental will continue to operate. The station is tentatively scheduled to reopen by Thanksgiving.

19 August 2006: New Presidents of Walt Disney World and Disney Vacation Club announced

ORLANDO, FL., August 17, 2006 -- Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, today announced two key leadership changes at the Walt Disney World Resort. Meg Gilbert Crofton, a 27-year Disney veteran who has held executive leadership roles in worldwide Human Resources, Operations and Sales, has been promoted to President of the Walt Disney World Resort. In addition, Rasulo announced that 10-year Disney veteran Jim Lewis has been promoted to President of Disney Vacation Club. Both Crofton and Lewis will report to Al Weiss, President of Worldwide Operations for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

"I look forward to Meg's leadership at the Walt Disney World Resort, where she will continue to focus on growth, creativity, innovation and excellent Guest service," said Rasulo. "Jim's promotion is well deserved in recognition of his strong leadership of our rapidly growing, very successful vacation club business. Both Meg and Jim are strong leaders with an excellent command of our business -- and both know what it takes to ensure an experience for our Guests that only Disney can provide."


Meg Crofton, President, Walt Disney World Resort



"The combination of Meg's leadership experience, in-depth knowledge of the company's operations and her incredible passion for our Cast Members and the Guest experience make her the right leader of the Walt Disney World Resort," added Weiss. "Throughout the past 27 years, Meg has assumed more responsibilities and gained extensive perspective and practical experience -- all of which will be invaluable as she represents more than 57,000 Cast Members at one of the most popular resort destinations in the world."

Most recently, Crofton, 52, served for four years as Executive Vice President of Human Resources for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. In this role, Crofton had global responsibilities for all HR-related services for 99,000 Cast Members worldwide, including Employee/Labor Relations, Diversity/Inclusion, Compliance, Recruitment, Disney University Training and Development, Organizational Development, Benefits and Workforce Planning. Crofton reported to Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

"Thanks to Meg's leadership, we've made great strides in creating a world-class HR organization that is focused on providing the best experience and work environment for our Cast around the world, as well as furthering the business objectives of our segment," said Rasulo, who added that Crofton's replacement would be named shortly.

"I am extremely excited about the opportunity to lead the Walt Disney World Resort," said Crofton. "Central Florida is my home and it's where I spent the majority of my career -- and it has always held a very special place in my heart.

"I look forward to working closely with the talented Walt Disney World Resort leadership team, as well as with our dedicated Cast, as we continue to provide families around the world a fun and memorable experience," added Crofton.

Throughout her tenure at Disney, Crofton has consistently taken on roles with increasing levels of responsibility. Prior to her promotion to Executive Vice President of Human Resources for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts in 2002, Crofton served for five years as Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Improvement at the Walt Disney World Resort, where she oversaw all HR services and strategies for the resort's Cast Members. Prior to this, Crofton served as Vice President of Human Resources, focusing on Guest satisfaction and Cast excellence.

Crofton also has extensive local and international experience, serving from 1987 to 1994 in several executive roles with Walt Disney World's Resort Operations. During this time, Crofton was responsible for hotel operations, as well as for convention sales and account services. She also served as the task force leader for 10 resort hotel openings at the Walt Disney World Resort and led the task force responsible for the successful opening of Disneyland Resort Paris in 1992.

She began her career at Disney in 1977 at Vista-United Telecommunications. After a brief departure to work for AT&T, Crofton rejoined Disney in 1981 as Operations Manager of Vista-United Telecommunications. Three years later, she became General Manager of The Disney Inn.

Crofton serves on the Board of the Rollins College Hamilton Holt School in Winter Park, FL. She attended Rollins College and received her BS degree in Marketing and MBA from Florida State University.


Jim Lewis, President, Disney Vacation Club



"Under Jim's leadership, Disney Vacation Club achieved significant growth, bringing total membership to nearly 300,000 individuals in 100 countries," said Rasulo. "Jim's strong business acumen and passion for Guest and Cast experience have been key to this growing segment of our business, and he is poised to expand the operation into new markets."

Lewis, 45, most recently served as Senior Vice President/General Manager of Disney Vacation Club (DVC). Prior to joining DVC in 2003, Lewis served as Senior Vice President, Multi Market Business Development and Public Affairs of the Walt Disney World Resort. In addition, he previously led the Operations Finance team at Walt Disney World.

"I am clearly very excited about this promotion, my very talented team, the Disney brand, and the opportunities that lie ahead," said Lewis.

Prior to joining Disney, Lewis spent eight years at PepsiCo in a variety of finance and operating assignments before joining Disney in 1996. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Indiana State University and received his MBA from the Krannert School of Business at Purdue University. Lewis is also a CPA.

Since moving to Central Florida, Lewis has become an active community leader. He represents the Walt Disney World Resort on the boards of Enterprise Florida, the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) and the Coalition for the Homeless. He is also a board member and 2006 Chairman of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce.

7 August 2006: Latest construction photos from Pleasure Island

See the previous update below from 13 March 2006 for a list of changes being made. The photos below show the latest work taking place around Pleasure Island. Thanks to Shaman for the photos.

6 August 2006: New Enhancements for 2007 Disney Dinner Shows

Starting today, Guest may now book all three Disney Dinner Shows up to 180 days in advance.

Beginning January 1, 2007 new pricing and tiered seating will be available at Disney’s Spirit of Aloha and Pioneer Hall Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue. Now you can select the area where you will be seated based on table availability. Currently there are no announced changes to Mickey’s Back Yard BBQ show or pricing.

Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue

Category 1 will allow you and your party to be seated on the first floor level with your table nearest the stage and in the middle of all the action and excitement.

Category 2 offers either a great table on the first floor behind the Category 1 seating below the balcony or in the center of the balcony on the 2nd floor. Either way, you're still facing the stage so you can get a wonderful view of the entire performance.

Category 3 offers tables that are located on the right hand side or left hand side of the balcony on the 2nd floor. You won't miss a moment of the fun and excitement as you enjoy the panoramic view of the entire stage production.

Note: Guests in need of wheelchair accessibility may only be seated in Category 1 for the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue. Category 2 and 3 areas of Pioneer Hall are not wheelchair accessible. Guests seated in Category 2 or 3 areas may be required to ascend one flight of stairs.

Seating Chart for Pioneer Hall Hoo Dee Doo Musical Revue

Disney’s Spirit of Aloha

Category 1 is located in the lower level, in the center and nearest the stage so you will be as close to the performers as possible. You won't miss a moment of the excitement with these wonderful seats. You'll feel as though you are one of the Polynesian dancers.

Category 2 offers tables in the lower level that are located on either the left or right side of the stage OR upper level tables that are located directly behind the Category 1 seating. All of these seats will give you and your family a great view of the entire stage area and you won't miss a thing!

Category 3 offers tables in the lower level that are located to the extreme far right or left of the stage, OR the majority of the upper level tables. You will still have a good view of the stage and be able to enjoy all of the excitement of the authentic Polynesian dancing.

Seating Chart for Disney’s Spirit of Aloha

New Prices for both shows: (includes tax and gratuity)

Current 2006 Pricing $50.22 $25.43
Category 1 (2007) $58.99 $29.99
Category 2 (2007) $54.99 $26.99
Category 3 (2007) $50.99 $25.99

5 August 2006: Disney Announces Walt Disney World Resort Peace of Mind Tropical Weather Policy: Fees Waived for Cancellations as well as Re-bookings

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Disney Destinations and Walt Disney Travel Co. have announced a new policy providing greater flexibility to modify or cancel Walt Disney World Resort advance reservations in the event of a hurricane warning - and it represents a bit of financial sunshine.

During the 2006 hurricane season, in the event a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area or for the guest's place of residence within 7 days before the scheduled arrival date, the guest may call in advance to reschedule or cancel their Walt Disney Travel Co. Magic Your Way vacation package without any cancellation or change fees imposed by Disney. This policy also applies to most Walt Disney World Resort room-only reservations booked directly with Disney, as well as reservations at Disney's Vero Beach Resort or Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort in the event a hurricane warning is issued for those destinations.

When the guest reschedules, all deposited monies for rooms, park tickets, Disney dining plans and other Disney products and services will be applied toward the rescheduled vacation.

Guests who have purchased packages that include products and services provided by third party suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, car rental agencies or vacation insurance companies, will continue to be responsible for any non-refundable payments, as well as cancellation or change fees assessed by those suppliers. Any discounts or free offers applicable to the original vacation will not apply to the rescheduled vacation. Disney cannot guarantee availability of similar accommodations for the new travel dates. This policy does not apply to certain special events or dining experiences.

For a complete description of the policy, visit www.disneyworld.com.

"If a guest is impacted - or is likely to be impacted - by a hurricane, the last thing we want them to be worrying about is a Disney cancellation or change fee," said Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort. "With this policy, our guests don't have to worry about that. As for the weather, there have been only two days since 1971 when our parks haven't opened because of weather concerns."

In fact, the period from mid-August through September can be one of the best times to visit Walt Disney World Resort. With school bells ringing, it's after the height of the summer vacation season. That means shorter lines. It's also a time of special events, including Magical Beginnings events for families with preschoolers, the Tom Joyner Family Reunion hosted by popular radio and TV host Tom Joyner, the Night of Joy contemporary Christian music extravaganza, and the launch of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates.

StormReady distinction

Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort have been recognized by NOAA National Weather Service as StormReady communities, the only theme parks and resorts in the nation to achieve the distinction.

To be recognized as StormReady, a community must establish an emergency operations center, have multiple means to receive severe weather information, monitor weather conditions and issue alerts, promote the importance of public readiness through education efforts, and develop a formal hazardous weather plan which includes emergency exercises.
 

30 June 2006: July 4 fireworks events

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- When almost every evening is remindful of the Fourth of July with colorful fireworks bursting in the nighttime sky, what do you do when it's reallythe Fourth of July? That's the case at Walt Disney World Resort, where Epcot presents the fireworks spectacular "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" nightly, and Magic Kingdom regularly presents its "Wishes" fireworks extravaganza.

So for the Fourth of July, Disney will add a fireworks show at a third park, present a different show at Magic Kingdom, and enhance the Epcot show.

Disney-MGM Studios will join in the pyrotechnics fun with a special Fourth of July fireworks show prior to its regular nighttime spectacular, "Fantasmic!" Meanwhile, Magic Kingdom will treat guests to the famous "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks show with patriotic music and "bombs bursting in air," a presentation that thrilled millions of guests during a 28-year run. And Epcot will present its acclaimed "IllumiNations" show with a special holiday finale.

Here's the schedule of the Fourth of July nighttime fun (theme park hours for July 4 are in parentheses):

Disney-MGM Studios (9 a.m.-10 p.m.) - Fourth of July fireworks, 9 p.m.; "Fantasmic!" 10 p.m.

Epcot (9 a.m.-10 p.m.) - "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," 10 p.m.

Magic Kingdom (8 a.m.-1 a.m.) - "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks, 9 p.m.; "SpectroMagic," 10:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.

The special nighttime shows are included with theme park admission.

Downtown Disney Plans Fireworks and Fun on July 4
An evening of special July 4 family fun is in store at Downtown Disney featuring a DJ dance party and fireworks.

In addition to the dance party at the Dock Stage in the Marketplace, there will be special atmosphere entertainment leading up to a new fireworks show that touches on the patriotic spirit of the Fourth. The pyrotechnics above Village Lake begin at 12 midnight.

7 June 2006: "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration

BURBANK, Calif. (June. 7, 2006) -- From an overnight stay inside Cinderella Castle to a Golden FASTPASS, dreams big and small will come true at Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts during Disney's "Year of a Million Dreams," a first-of-its-kind celebration of the individual dreams of Disney Parks guests.

The year-long celebration, beginning Oct. 1, 2006, at Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, will feature the debut of an incredible lineup of new attractions and entertainment at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts, plus new technologies that allow guests to customize their Disney park experience.

And, for the first time, during the "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration, Disney cast members will award a million dreams -- both large and small, including many "money-can't-buy" experiences -- to guests selected through a random process as part of a unique "Disney Dreams Giveaway" promotion.

"Throughout this incredible celebration, special dreams and unique experiences once thought impossible will be awarded by our cast every day," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "Disney parks are always the place where dreams come true -- but even more so during the 'Year of a Million Dreams.' "

The "impossible" includes the creation of over-the-top, overnight experiences for winning guests at both East and West Coast resorts: a royal bedchamber inside Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort and a Mickey Mouse Penthouse at Disneyland Resort, both expected to be complete by January 2007.

A day of royal treatment will end with a night of enchantment inside Cinderella Castle for a different lucky guest each night. Cinderella's royal bedchamber, now under construction at Magic Kingdom, will allow Disney guests to stay overnight inside the park and enjoy a view shared only by Tinker Bell. The lavishly decorated bedroom will be located in a space originally planned as an in-park apartment for the use of the Disney family.

And for a lucky Disneyland guest, each night, the all-new Mickey Mouse Penthouse at Disneyland Hotel will pour on the Mickey charm and include magical views overlooking both Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure parks. The extraordinary penthouse will be decorated in all things Mickey, with finishing touches by none other than Minnie Mouse herself.

In addition, during the year-long celebration, other Disney dreams both large and small will be awarded in the "Disney Dreams Giveaway" promotion, such as:

• Traveling to each Disney resort around the world to serve as grand marshal in a Disney parade.
• A variety of unique Disney vacation experiences.
• Admission to special parties and other extraordinary experiences in the Disneyland and Walt Disney World parks.
• Private meetings with favorite Disney characters.
• Or, a Golden FASTPASS ticket with unique access entitlements to some of Disney's most popular attractions.
• New Attractions and Entertainment Planned for the "Year of a Million Dreams"

Throughout the "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration, Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts will debut major new attractions:

Disneyland Resort in California

• Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage -- Inspired by Disney- Pixar's "Finding Nemo," this all-new E-ticket adventure will take guests on a real (and unbelievable) underwater excursion. (Summer 2007)

• Rockin' Space Mountain -- Space Mountain is getting a new twist. Thanks to new lighting and technology, Disney's classic attraction will become a new experience in which rockets will rock it through the greatest concert in the universe. An all-new soundtrack will fit the exciting twists and turns of Disney's rocket classic. (Spring 2007)

Walt Disney World Resort in Florida

• "The Seas with Nemo & Friends" at Epcot -- Nemo is lost -- again -- and guests aboard "clam-mobiles" join his friends to search one of the world's largest saltwater aquariums for the playful clownfish in a stunning display of new entertainment technology inspired by Disney-Pixar's "Finding Nemo." (Late 2006)

• "Finding Nemo-The Musical" at Disney's Animal Kingdom -- Also inspired by Disney-Pixar's "Finding Nemo," the Great Barrier Reef comes to colorful life in an all-new musical filled with spectacular scenery, elaborate puppetry and music by a Tony-Award-winning composer. (Late 2006)

• The Laugh Floor Comedy Club at Magic Kingdom -- Guests find the power of laughter in an engaging and interactive new adventure inspired by Disney-Pixar's "Monsters, Inc." as they match wits with the one-eyed hero Mike Wazowski and his friends. (Early 2007)

Additionally, special entertainment and programs will be in place at the parks and resorts to accommodate the desires and wishes of would-be Disney Princesses, pirates, adventurers and space explorers. Guests will be able to customize their visit to a Disney park to pursue the "Dream Track" of their choice with on-line planning tools and in-park technology to help them become the hero or princess they've always dreamed of being.

For more information about the "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration and the "Disney Dreams Giveaway" promotion, visit www.mydisneyparks.com. Look for future announcements with the details of the "Disney Dreams Giveaway" promotion. No purchase necessary and subject to promotion official rules which will be available on Oct. 1, 2006. Odds of winning any prize will depend on the number of eligible entries. Void where prohibited.

7 June 2006: A First-of-its Kind Dream Come True Makes for An Unforgettable Experience in Magic Kingdom!

BURBANK, Calif. (June. 7, 2006) -- For the first time ever, to launch Disney's "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration, one lucky guest and family will receive a once-in-a-lifetime dream come true as they get the Magic Kingdom park all to themselves.

The winning family will enter Magic Kingdom on a red-carpeted Main Street, U.S.A. lined with cast members in place for their exclusive visit. They'll enjoy a VIP itinerary as they tour each land of the park, experience favorite attractions and visit favorite characters.

As the winning family leaves each land, other guests will fill the park behind them -- ensuring plenty of spectators as they make their way back down Main Street, U.S.A. as grand marshals of the daily parade. The winning family will conclude their remarkable visit by enjoying the spectacular fireworks over Cinderella Castle from a special viewing location.

The "Keys to the Magic Kingdom" promotion will lead up to the Oct. 1, 2006, launch of the "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration at Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The winning family will enjoy their VIP visit to Magic Kingdom in October, early in the year-long celebration. The "Year of a Million Dreams" is a first-of-its-kind event that celebrates the individual dreams of Disney Park guests from around the world. Another million dreams will be awarded to Disneyland and Walt Disney World guests through the "Disney Dreams Giveaway," a separate promotion that will run throughout the "Year of a Million Dreams."

"Our goal is to make dreams come true for every single guest who visits our Disney parks," says Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "Dreams and wishes are synonymous with Disney and what better way to make a vacation dream come true than by allowing one lucky family to enjoy the Magic Kingdom by themselves."

For more information about the "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration and the "Keys to the Magic Kingdom" promotion, visit www.mydisneyparks.com. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Open to legal residents 18 or older of the 50 states and D.C. Commences June 7, 2006, and ends July 31, 2006.

"Disney Dreams Giveaway": Look for future announcements with the details of the "Disney Dreams Giveaway" promotion. No purchase necessary and subject to promotion official rules which will be available on Oct. 1, 2006. Odds of winning any prize will depend on the number of eligible entries. Void where prohibited.

7 June 2006: The Year of a Million Dreams celebration

Disney are today set to unveil their new year long, world-wide celebration, replacing the current Happiest Celebration on Earth. Called "The Year of a Million Dreams celebration", more details are set to be unveiled later today, but until then, there is a teaser site with a few of the themes and concepts available at: http://destinations.disney.go.com/disneyparks/index?bhcp=1

10 May 2006: Disney's Price Slice savings on greens fees at Disney's golf courses

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Seldom does "slice" mean something positive in golf. Usually, it means a player wishes he could have his swing back -- to stroke the ball again ... straighter this time. But this summer, Walt Disney World Resort is offering a slice every golfer will like -- a price slice to play the award-winning Disney courses.

Beginning May 22 and continuing through Sept. 30, Disney's Price Slice means big savings on greens fees after 10 a.m. daily. Here's what is offered:

• Magnolia course, which has tested some of the world's top golfers annually since 1971 in a PGA TOUR event, for $55;
• Eagle Pines course, a challenging Pete Dye layout, for $55;
  Palm course, which will join the Magnolia in hosting the PGA TOUR Funai Classic in October, for $49;
• Lake Buena Vista course, which has hosted both LPGA and PGA TOUR events, for $45.
  The rates include use of an electric cart and reflect savings of $34-$44 compared to regular rates in effect for May-September.

Meanwhile, the fifth Disney course, Osprey Ridge, is scheduled to be closed May 15 through Sept. 23 as part of a multi-year course improvement program. Greens will be resurfaced with an improved variety of bermudagrass called TifEagle, replacing the Tifdwarf previously on the greens. Tee areas will also be laser leveled during the refurbishment.

Osprey Ridge is the third Disney championship course to undergo a makeover. Previously, the Palm course was improved in 2004, and the Magnolia course in 2005.

Walt Disney World Resort is a Golf Magazine Gold Medal Resort -- among 25 facilities in the continental U.S. and Hawaii distinguished with the honor. Guests can call 407/WDW-GOLF or visit disneygolf.com for tee times. Magic Your Way vacation packages including accommodations, theme park tickets, dining and recreation -- including golf and golf instruction -- are available by calling 407/W-DISNEY, through a local travel agent, or at disneyworld.com.

10 May 2006: Upcoming Wide World of Sports events

AAU basketball national championships begin in June

As the summer heats up, so does amateur basketball around the country. And nowhere is the competition hotter than at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. The nation's top high school basketball players will compete in The Milk House at the country's No. 1 venue for amateur and professional sporting events for the right to call themselves national champions during the Amateur Athletic Union Boys' and Girls' Basketball National Championships, June 23-Aug. 13.

The AAU, one of the largest non-profit, volunteer organizations in the country, annually showcases the top prep basketball talent from coast to coast at its national championship events. Among the NBA stars to compete at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex as AAU stars are Houston Rockets center Yao Ming, Phoenix Suns forward Amare Stoudemire and New Jersey Nets forward Richard Jefferson. In all, more than 30 current NBA players have battled for championship titles at The Milk House during their AAU heydays.

The AAU Basketball National Championships have also established themselves as the most popular basketball events for scouting top high school talent. Hundreds of NCAA Division I college basketball coaches crowd the baselines of each of the six Milk House courts, previewing future NCAA standouts.

This summer's marquee boys events include the 17-under AAU Boys Super Showcase (July 22-26), 16U AAU Boys Super Showcase (July 19-22) and both the AAU Boys Junior and Senior National Championships (July 27-Aug. 1). The girls take the floor July 6-12 for the U17, U18 and U19 AAU Girls National Championships.

In 1996, upon completion of the new sports complex, Walt Disney World Resort partnered with the AAU to host the organization's amateur events. Later that year, AAU headquarters were relocated to the Orlando area -- just a few miles from Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex.

For more information on the AAU Basketball National Championships at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex, call 407/934-7200 or visit disneyworldsports.com and aausports.org.

Bucs stop here for NFL preseason training

The defending NFC South champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers return to the Hess Sports Fields at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex this summer for the team's fifth year of training camp at the No. 1 venue for amateur and professional sporting events in the country. While practice dates and times for the 2006 training camp have not been released, previous camps have been in late July-early August.

Fans will have a chance to get closer than ever to the Bucs' marquee players, including Pro Bowlers Derrick Brooks and Ronde Barber, as well as rookie sensation Carnell "Cadillac" Williams, this season's NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Once again, training camp is free for the public. More than 23,000 fans cycled through the turnstiles at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex in 2005 to watch summer workouts.

The Buccaneers have trained at the 220-acre sports complex since 2002 -- the team's Super Bowl championship season -- and are the first NFL team to conduct training camp at Walt Disney World Resort.

Practice sessions generally last two hours, although afternoon practices involving special teams tend to last an hour. For more information, please call 407/939-GAME (4263) and visit disneyworldsports.com or buccaneers.com.

3 May 2006: Two-billionth guest to visit a Disney park

ANAHEIM, Calif. (May 2, 2006) -- At 9:02am today Disneyland lived up to its reputation as "The Happiest Place on Earth" as it welcomed 12-year old Emmalee Mason of Colorado Springs, Colo., as she became the honorary two-billionth guest to visit a Disney park (nearly the combined populations of China and India).

Amidst a blast of colorful streamers, musical fanfare and a parade of congratulatory Disney characters, Emmalee was whisked away to Disneyland's iconic Floral Mickey for a special ceremony. Surrounded by her family and familiar Disney pals, Emmalee seemed to be in a simultaneous state of shock and delight, repeating astonished sets of "Wow!" "Wow!" "Wow!"

In commenting on the day's ceremony, Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, stated: "This is truly a highlight of our continuing global 50th anniversary celebration. The world over, families use words like 'magical,' 'dreams,' 'wonder' and 'imagination' to describe our five destination resorts around the world and now thanks to Emmalee, our honorary two-billionth guest, we can add the word "Wow!"

Andrae Rivas, the 2006 Disneyland Resort Ambassador, presented Emmalee with a giant golden key and a lifetime pass to all 11 Disney parks around the world at such distinct locales as Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Tokyo Disney Resort in Japan, Disneyland Paris Resort in France and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort in China (which opened in September 2005), in addition to Disneyland Resort in southern California. As an added surprise, the entire family of 10 (Emmalee, her mom and dad, Mike and Michele, five sisters, one brother, plus a baby on the way) also received lifetime passes to Disney parks worldwide.

Rivas also gave Emmalee a one-of-a-kind proclamation designating her as the honorary two-billionth guest to visit the Disney parks over the past five decades. During her special day Emmalee received a private photo session with her family and Mickey Mouse, an exclusive tour of Disneyland Park and Disney's California Adventure Park, a special ride on the Matterhorn Bobsleds with Mickey, and was feted as Grand Marshal of Disneyland's 50th anniversary parade.

"WOW! I'm in shock . . . I'm so happy!" exclaimed Emmalee. "I am just so surprised . . . I didn't think that I would be the 2-billionth guest . . . this kind of stuff never happens to me!"

"Two-billion guests means two-billion lifetime memories that have been made and shared with friends and families at Disney parks around the world," said Rasulo. "A visit to a Disney theme park, whether in California, Florida, Japan, France or China, remains a vibrant and universally embraced experience passed from generation to generation."

Citing the two-billionth Disney park guest is just one of the highlights of 2006 as the global 50th anniversary celebration of Disney parks around the world continues. Throughout the year each Disney resort will unveil more new innovative attractions and spectacular entertainment designed to appeal to guests of all ages with immersive experiences that only Disney can provide.

26 April 2006: Magical Beginnings - devoted to families travelling with toddlers

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (April 25, 2006) -- Disney today announced a new, breakthrough program devoted to families travelling with toddlers or preschoolers. Called Magical Beginnings, it was custom designed based on both consumer research and guest feedback and is aimed at reducing the hassles and increasing the magic for parents when vacationing with toddlers and preschoolers.

"Magical Beginnings is all about making our parks and resorts even more accessible and appealing to a huge and important group of people -- families with very young children," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "Magical Beginnings reinforces our commitment to creating an easy-to-plan, easy-to-navigate vacation filled with activities that allow families to create lifelong memories."

Disney theme parks in Florida and California have always been the perfect playground for the whole family, but new attractions, shows and amenities make the parks and resort hotels even more welcoming to "little ones."

Timeless attractions, special kid's menus, character dining, children's programs, length-of-stay stroller rental at the theme parks, plus kiddie pools, play areas and in-room babysitting at Disney resort hotels were all created with young guests in mind.

The new Magical Beginnings program offers value travel packages, captivating entertainment, targeted planning tools and a host of services and amenities to make navigating Disney parks with children five years and younger easier then ever.

Recent research released by travel marketing experts Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell (YPB&R) shows that eight out of ten families believe the ideal age to take a first major vacation with children is when the children are five years old or younger. The research revealed the families are seeking family-friendly destinations that offer activities for both kids and parents. Florida and California are the states family travelers want to visit most, with Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort as the preferred destinations. And nine out of ten preschool parents would consider taking their young children on a theme park vacation as long as the park offered age-appropriate rides and services.

"Age-appropriate activities and attractions are very important to this group of family travelers," said Peter Yesawich, chairman and chief executive officer of YPB&R. "That's why theme parks and, in particular, the Disney parks, are a natural vacation choice for families vacationing with toddlers and preschoolers."

Rekindling childhood memories and creating new family traditions is easy at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts as each features myriad attractions and entertainment options relevant to preschoolers.

"We continue to survey our guests around the world and evaluate our attractions and entertainment to remain as relevant as possible," said Rasulo. "Magical Beginnings is really the product of that listening and research. We think this new Magical Beginnings season will really resonate with families with toddlers and preschoolers."

Walt Disney World Introduces a Travel Season Just for Little Ones

Walt Disney World Resort has created an exciting seven-week travel period filled with savings and special events ideal for youngsters and parents during a traditionally less busy time of year.

• From Aug. 13 to Sept. 30, these families can enjoy a new package that offers free dining for the entire family. Packages include a five-day, four-night stay at a value resort, "Magic Your Way" theme park tickets and free Disney Dining plan (one table-service meal, one snack and one quick-service meal per day). Packages begin at $950 for two adults and one child (ages 3-9), $173 per additional child.
   
• Throughout the special travel time Disney will showcase dynamic concerts and special entertainment for little ones. "Playhouse Disney in Concert," presented by Huggies and Pull-Ups brands, includes performances by Disney Channel favorites The Wiggles, who will perform multiple shows daily, Aug. 29-Sept. 1. The award-winning Australian foursome will rouse the crowd with songs like "Yummy, Yummy" and "Big Red Car" as they headline a kid-friendly concert at Disney-MGM Studios. Youngsters can dance and sing along with other favorites including the Doodlebops; Johnny & the Sprites, featuring Johnny Tartaglia; Dan Zanes and more -- all scheduled to appear during the seven-week travel time. Plus, Disney Live family entertainment featuring the new "Mickey's Magic Show" created by Feld Entertainment will make its first-ever park appearance.
   
• During the Little Ones Travel Time, Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom will open an hour early on select days for Disney guests and their small-fry for favorites such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant, it's a small world and Peter Pan's Flight, and a new play area called Pooh's Playful Spot. Plus, youngsters can meet favorite characters during the special edition Extra Magic Hours. While guests must have Resort ID and valid ticketing for the parks offering this Fantasyland Extra Magic Hours, there is no additional charge to enjoy this extra time in the parks. This early access allows families with young ones to get an early start to their day and maximize park time before heading back to their Disney resort for an afternoon break.
   
• Character dining experiences have traditionally proven to be a great way to introduce little ones to Disney characters, with a dozen offerings throughout Disney parks and resorts. Coming this summer, kids can now dine and get autographs with Playhouse Disney pals JoJo and Goliath, and characters from Disney's Little Einsteins will meet and greet guests at Hollywood and Vine at Disney-MGM Studios.
   
• Other magical experiences for little ones include the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at World of Disney in Downtown Disney. A little girl can be transformed into her favorite princess with fancy hairstyles, glittery nails and dazzling costume makeovers. Reservations for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are strongly encouraged by calling 407/WDW-STYLE. And young adventurers can pretend to sail the high seas and hoist the Jolly Roger in the new, interactive Adventure Room in World of Disney. Young heroes and heroines can fill treasure chests and skulls with pirate plunder, create their own seafaring hat and interact with a new pirate named Rusty Blade.
  Planning a trip and navigating the parks will be easier than ever thanks to on-line planning tools, a Magical Beginnings in-park map highlighting age-appropriate attractions, hassle-reducing services and specially trained Disney reservation agents. For more information, visit disneyworld.com and select "Something For Everyone" and choose "Preschoolers" for more details and travel tips.
   
• Guests traveling by air don't need to worry about carting their luggage and their little ones through the airport. With the innovative and complimentary Disney's Magical Express, guests check their bags at their hometown airport, bypass baggage claim at Orlando International Airport and are whisked to all the Disney fun while their bags are delivered to their hotel rooms. The Disney magic even extends to the trip home for guests flying on many major airlines as guests can check their bags and get their boarding passes right at their Disney resort hotel.
  Bookings for the new travel package during the Little Ones Travel Time at Walt Disney World Resort can be made through June 4 by calling 407/WDW-PREK, or http://disneyworld.com/preK. For more information on Magical Beginnings, contact http://disneymagicalbeginnings.com.

15 April 2006: Pleasure Island construction photos

See the 13 March 2006 update below for details of the changes being made. Shown below is the demolition of the West End Stage, and other work along the facades of the street.

22 March 2006: Disney Cruise Line podcast

There is an official audio and video podcast covering the new Cruise Line offerings now available at http://www.dclnews.com/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?PressReleaseID=212

21 March 2006: Mediterranean Cruises to Europe

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 21, 2006) -- For the first time, Disney Cruise Line is adding European flair to its itinerary offerings, repositioning the Disney Magic for the summer of 2007 to the Port of Barcelona in Spain and offering alternating 10-night and 11-night Mediterranean cruise vacations to Europe.

"Our guests have told us they would love to take a European vacation, but all of the planning and logistics can be daunting. These special sailings will offer a hassle-free way to experience the beauty and culture of Europe combined with the fun of a Disney cruise," said Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin at an announcement event at Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort this morning.

With eight European ports of call, which provide gateways to familiar cities such as Florence, Rome, Pisa and Cannes, these new Mediterranean itineraries present the family vacation of a lifetime.

"The flexibility and mobility of Disney Cruise Line allow us to offer guests a new way to explore other parts of the world while enjoying a world-class cruise experience," said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo. "Disney Cruise Line is a model for the way we are expanding our family vacation business worldwide by offering new experiences the whole family can enjoy."

The four 11-night itineraries depart on Saturdays: May 26, June 16, July 7 and July 28; while the four 10-night itineraries depart on Wednesdays: June 6, June 27, July 18 and Aug. 8. Both itineraries will depart from Barcelona for the summer.

Special 2007 Mediterranean Cruises to Europe

10-Night Itinerary
Wednesday Barcelona, Spain (embarkation)
Thursday At Sea
Friday Palermo, Sicily
Saturday Naples, Italy (Pompeii)
Sunday Olbia, Sardinia
Monday Civitavecchia, Italy (Rome)
Tuesday La Spezia, Italy (Florence & Pisa)
Wednesday Marseille, France
Thursday Villefranche, France
Friday At Sea
Saturday Barcelona, Spain (debarkation)

11-Night Itinerary
Saturday Barcelona, Spain (embarkation)
Sunday At Sea
Monday Palermo, Sicily
Tuesday Naples, Italy (Pompeii)
Wednesday Olbia, Sardinia
Thursday Civitavecchia, Italy (Rome)
Friday At Sea
Saturday La Spezia, Italy (Florence & Pisa)
Sunday Marseille, France
Monday Villefranche, France
Tuesday At Sea
Wednesday Barcelona, Spain (debarkation)

In addition to the Mediterranean cruises, two 14-night trans-Atlantic sailings bookend the 10- and 11-night adventures with the eastbound itinerary departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., May 12, and the westbound starting from the Port of Barcelona, Aug. 18.

Bookings for these special and very limited itineraries are scheduled to open on April 4, giving interested guests time to plan with their families and friends. Starting rates for the Mediterranean 10- and 11-night itineraries range from $2,399 to $3,499 and are based on double occupancy.

Guests interested in booking a Mediterranean cruise to Europe with Disney Cruise Line should call (888)-DCL-2500, visit disneycruise.com or contact their travel agent.

Disney Cruise Line specifically designed its ships with areas and activities that appeal to the unique vacation needs of every member of the family. As a result, its vacations offer guests an unbelievable cruise experience not found anywhere else.

The ship features nearly an entire deck that is dedicated just to kids where they can enjoy fun, supervised activities designed for especially for different age groups. Additionally, an experienced staff cares for infants and toddlers at Flounder's Reef Nursery, allowing parents the opportunity to explore ports of call or adult areas on the ship, such as a special pool, the spa, a nighttime entertainment district and a romantic dining experience.

The Walt Disney Theatre provides a magnificent showplace of state-of-the-art sound, lighting, staging and set design. The curtain is lifted after the sun drops and original Disney musicals, family-friendly variety acts and first-run films entertain all ages.

While sailing on a Disney cruise, guests also get to enjoy three different themed restaurants through the voyage. Guests travel from the casual elegance of Lumiere's to the colorful, island-inspired Parrot Cay and Animator's Palate, where Disney animation springs to life throughout their meal. Along the way, they enjoy the familiarity of having the same wait staff with them at each restaurant they visit. Adults may also opt to dine at Palo, an exquisite restaurant featuring sweeping views and northern Italian cuisine.

The 877 family-friendly staterooms aboard each Disney ship were designed to offer maximum comfort. Most feature an industry first -- a bath-and-a-half with two separate areas; one offering a shower and sink, the other a sink and toilet.

13 March 2006: Pleasure Island changes confirmed

Further to the 25th January update below, the following changes to Pleasure Island are now confirmed

• Addition of T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure restaurant, opening early 2008 (see 27 February 2006 update below for more information)
• Removal of the West End Stage
• Addition of a bridge connecting the Westside to the centre of Pleasure Island
• Removal of the Hub Stage
• Addition of new boat dock for additional transportation options
• Superstar Studios will permanently close on March 3 2006
• DTV, Missing Link Sausage Company, Zen Zone will permanently close on March 19 2006
• Changing Attitudes and Reel Finds will permanently close on April 1 2006
• ORLANDO HARLEY-DAVIDSON will close its current location on March 19 2006 and will move to the former Changing Attitudes and Reel Finds, with a Summer 2006 planned opening

27 February 2006: New restaurant opening in Downtown Disney

HOUSTON, Feb. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Landry's Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: LNY - News), one of the nation's largest casual dining, entertainment and hospitality companies, announced that it has acquired 80% of the restaurant concept T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover® from Schussler Creative, Inc. for approximately $7.6 million, including reimbursements for research and development costs, accounts payable, construction draws and preopening expenses. In addition, under the agreement, based on the ultimate success of the venture (combined profits of all stores exceeding $20 million), Landry's can acquire Schussler Creative's 20% interest for an amount up to an additional $35 million.

T-Rex is a unique concept that features dining and retail in an interactive prehistoric environment. The concept is built around water, fire and ice -- guests visiting T-Rex will be greeted with life size animatronic dinosaurs that live among cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site and much more. Locations are planned domestically and internationally, the first of which is slated to open this spring in The Legends mall in Kansas City, Kansas; with another opening in Downtown Disney® (near Orlando) in early 2008.

In addition to the T-Rex concept, Landry's has acquired the majority interest in Schussler Creative's new Asian themed eatery (which is expected to open by summer 2007) inside Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. This Asian-themed restaurant with retail is reminiscent of the western Himalayan foothills in India and Nepal, featuring a rural village called Anandapur in a jungle with a tiny town-like mass at its center. Asia will offer full service table dining, as well as quick service food. This Asian-Fusion concept will feature Asian decor, complete with Asian antiques, as well as a retail component that will offer Asian goods ranging from Sushi plates to chopsticks and fine teapots.

"One of the major factors that drew us to this transaction was the chance to expand our operations with Disney," said Landry's President, Chairman and CEO Tilman J. Fertitta. "Our existing three Rainforest Cafes located at Downtown-Disney®, Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Disneyland Resort in California generate approximately $80.0 million in revenue. We feel that the T-Rex and Asian theme concepts are a perfect fit with Disney's unmatched entertainment offerings." Schussler Creative Chairman Steve Schussler was the founder and creator of the popular Rainforest Cafe restaurant concept, which Landry's purchased in 2000, and has since grown to be one of Landry's most successful concepts. "Landry's is the perfect strategic partner to turn our dream into an ongoing reality," said Steve Schussler. "Landry's has done an excellent job of maintaining the Rainforest Cafe brand as the premier themed eatery in the world. T-Rex uses elements familiar to Rainforest Cafe fans such as animatronics and special effects to create a whole new type of dining experience that takes visitors back in time in an educational and entertaining way," added Schussler.

About Landry's Restaurants, Inc.
Landry's Restaurants, Inc., is one of the nation's largest and fastest growing casual-dining and entertainment companies. Publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, Landry's owns and operates more than 300 properties, including Landry's Seafood House, Joe's Crab Shack, The Crab House, Rainforest Cafe, Charley's Crab, Willie G's Seafood & Steak House, The Chart House and Saltgrass Steak House. Landry's also owns several icon developments, including Downtown Aquarium complexes in Houston and Denver, Kemah Boardwalk, a magnificent 40-acre, family-oriented themed entertainment destination and the Golden Nugget hotel-casino properties in Las Vegas and Laughlin, Nevada. The Company employs over 30,000 workers in 36 states.

23 February 2006: St. Patrick's Day at Raglan Road

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Downtown Disney will host an authentic Irish celebration of St. Patrick's Day on March 17. Live Irish music and dance, favorite Irish foods and a wide selection of Irish beers will mark the first-ever St. Patrick's Day celebration at Downtown Disney's newest venue.

Raglan Road's house band Tuskar Rock will perform traditional and contemporary Irish music. Jay Shanahan, Fear an Ti (that's maitre d' in Irish), will entertain guests with a unique mix of Irish music and storytelling. Champion Irish dancer and native Dubliner Danielle Fitzpatrick will dance a repertoire of Irish dance steps. Irish dance troupe Celtic Pulse, led by Myra Waters, a former dancer with Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance, will perform high-energy Irish step dancing throughout the evening.

Classic Irish fare with a modern flair will be on the menu, including fish and chips, Irish stew and shepherd's pie. Authentic Irish beers and whiskeys will be on tap. Raglan Road's retail store Shop for Ireland will stock custom clothing and novelty items to help revelers celebrate St. Pat's Day in style.

Raglan Road is open from noon to 2 a.m. On March 17, there will be a $15 cover charge per person from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Pleasure Island celebrates St. Patrick's Day March 16-18, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. The island will turn "green" with live music, videos by Irish artists, leprechaun characters and stilt walkers. Pleasure Island club admission is not required for this event.

22 February 2006: New Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Downtown Disney Transforms Little Girls Into Disney Princesses

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Young guests visiting the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Downtown Disney Marketplace will be given the chance of a lifetime -- to be magically transformed into their favorite Disney princess. While the salon begins offering enchanting makeovers and pampering services for youngsters ages 3 and up starting April 5, guests can call now to book appointments at 407/WDW-STYLE (939-7895).

Fairy godmothers-in-training will offer the royal treatment using shimmering makeup, hair styling and nail polish. Prices ranges from $35 for hair and makeup to $175 and up for hair, makeup, nails, plus choice of a Disney princess costume, accessories and photo package.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is located inside World of Disney. Hours of operation will be 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Walk-ins are welcome; however, reservations are strongly encouraged.

25 January 2006: Changes to Pleasure Island

There has recently been a lot of speculation surrounding some changes to Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney. Currently, the plan stands like this:

• Removal of the West End Stage
• Removal of the Hub Stage
• Removal of part of the Mouse House building
• Introduction of some "green" areas - benches, seating areas
• Changes to the frontage of several buildings
• New traffic flow running near Motion connecting to the Marketplace
• A re-grade of the Pleasure Island street, reducing the hill, making the area ADA compliant

The above is the outline plan for Phase 1, and is scheduled to be completed within a year of work commencing. Phase 2 is more concerned with the actual clubs themselves.

As always, until officially confirmed, this information should be treated as rumor and speculation, and is subject to change.

31 December 2005: Walt Disney World Resort: Plugged In

The second edition of Walt Disney World Resort: Plugged In, the official WDW podcast, is now available at http://www.disneyworld.com/podcast, as well as on ITunes. Look out for the first Video cast on January 19 2006, devoted to Expedition Everest.

26 December 2005: Walt Disney World Resort: Plugged In now online

Walt Disney World Resort: Plugged In, the official WDW podcast, is now available at http://www.disneyworld.com/podcast
The next show will appear Dec. 29 and then every Thursday after that.

15 December 2005: Walt Disney World Resort: Plugged In

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Walt Disney World Resort takes listeners inside the world's No. 1 vacation destination with "Walt Disney World Resort: Plugged In," a weekly podcast debuting as part of the "Happiest Celebration on Earth," a global commemoration of 50 years of Disney theme parks.

From a Christmas Day launch, the official Walt Disney World podcast is featuring a lively mix of exclusive content -- behind-the-scenes tours of Disney's four Florida theme parks, celebrity interviews, news about upcoming events, and conversations with Disney Imagineers, the men and women responsible for the design, creation and expansion of the company's theme parks and resorts.

Listeners can subscribe to the free audio program at disneyworld.com/podcast or through the iTunes Podcast Directory. The podcasts are being produced exclusively for the fast-growing medium and can be enjoyed at the listener's convenience with a computer or portable audio player such as the Apple iPod.

Upcoming podcasts will include interviews with celebrities such as Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa ("Live with Regis & Kelly"), Susan Lucci ("All My Children"), John Stamos ("Jake in Progress"), Raven ("That's So Raven"), the Cheetah Girls, Aly & AJ, Kelly Monaco and John O'Hurley ("Dancing with the Stars"), singer-actress Vanessa Williams, and the young stars of the Walt Disney Pictures and Walden Media motion picture "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe."

Listeners also will have unprecedented access to the thoughts of Imagineers as they discuss the design and construction of Expedition Everest, a thrilling new runaway train attraction debuting at Walt Disney World Resort in spring 2006.

"Walt Disney World Resort: Plugged In" joins several official podcasts from The Walt Disney Company, including free programs from Disney Online, Radio Disney, ABC, ESPN and Disneyland Resort.

6 December 2005: Raglan Road photos

Photos from the recently opened Raglan Road at Downtown Disney.

20 October 2005: Raglan Road now open

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- A true slice of Ireland comes to Walt Disney World Resort with the opening of Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island. Owned and operated by an Irish company, Raglan Road features the very best of authentic Irish food, drink, heritage and live entertainment.

Copyright 2005. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

The Irish culture is known for its warmth, character and hospitality, and Raglan Road delivers an experience immersed in genuine Irish ambiance. With capacity for 600 guests, Raglan Road is warm and welcoming with custom furnishings, lighting and wall coverings -- all designed and built in Ireland by Irish craftspeople. Irish antiques, ornamentation and bric-a-brac complete the authentic décor.

Four distinct antique bars, each more than 130 years old and imported from Ireland, serve as focal gathering areas. These grand fixtures were crafted from rich woods, such as mahogany and walnut, and feature marble adornments, leaded glass and ornate detailing. To complete the authenticity, and in keeping with tradition, a wide selection of cold, creamy and fresh Irish beers and fine Irish whiskies will be served.

Traditional and contemporary Irish music, storytelling and dance help create a spirited social ambience, and the friendly pub staff brings Emerald Isle charm to Downtown Disney. Irish musicians entertain nightly and guests are encouraged to sing, clap and dance to the lively performances.

The restaurant's gastronomic delights are the creation of Master Chef Kevin Dundon, one of Ireland's best-known and most celebrated chefs. With training in Ireland, Switzerland and Canada, Dundon has cooked for celebrities and heads of state, including Queen Elizabeth. His credits also include opening an award-winning Irish hotel and restaurant, appearing in his own television series on UK Food Channel, making numerous national television appearances in the U.S., U.K. and Canada, authoring the cookbook "Full On Irish" and being invited to cook at the prestigious James Beard Foundation in New York.

The Raglan Road menu offers bistro-style Irish fare and fresh ingredients, all with a modern flair and Celtic creativity. Natural tastes, flavor and quality prevail in dishes such as Raglan Rack (rack of lamb on a delicate Irish stew consommé), Kevin's Kudos (oven-roasted loin of bacon with an Irish mist glaze, served with braised cabbage and creamed potato) and Salmon of Knowledge (fresh grilled salmon with a hickory-scented maple sauce).

For guests wanting food to go, Cooke's of Dublin is a counter service location adjacent to Raglan Road where fish and chips and other quick and casual fare are available. There is also a retail location that offers Raglan Road and Irish-designed clothing and merchandise.

"We are thrilled to introduce an authentic Irish pub to Downtown Disney," said Djuan Rivers, vice president of Downtown Disney. "The superior level of quality, authenticity and energy that this new venue brings is a perfect complement to Downtown Disney's lineup of world-class retail, dining and entertainment."

"Having built more than 400 Irish pubs, literally in the four corners of the world, we believe that this is our best expression yet," said Paul Nolan, Raglan Road co-owner. "We are incredibly proud and excited to have the opportunity to bring a real slice of Ireland to Downtown Disney."

The "real" Raglan Road is located on the south side of Dublin. It was made famous by renowned Irish poet Patrick Kavanagh in a love poem entitled, "The Dawning of the Day." In the 1960s, Irish folk singer Luke Kelly first put the poem to music. "Raglan Road" has become a seminal Irish song and has since been covered by such artists as U2, Sinead O'Connor and Van Morrison. As a tribute to Patrick Kavanagh, a specially commissioned bronze sculpture of the poet sits outside Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Downtown Disney.

Raglan Road is owned and operated by Great Irish Pubs Florida, Inc., the Irish-owned company that previously created Nine Fine Irishmen at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Pleasure Island club admission is not required for entrance to Raglan Road.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The shepherd's pie is Angus beef and the Colorado lamb comes with a rich port wine sauce that takes three days to create. The fish is flown in fresh daily from Boston, creatively sauced or crisped in a delicate beer batter.

This isn't your uncle's Irish pub.

"We left corned beef and cabbage behind 50 years ago," said Paul Nolan, co-owner of Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Downtown Disney. "Ireland is one of the richest and most sophisticated countries in the world, and our attitude toward food is much more expansive."

Above: Signature Chef Kevin Dundon (l) and Executive Chef Brian Kenney (r)
Copyright 2005. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

Everything is fresh on the menu at Raglan Road, the new Irish pub and restaurant at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island. Celebrated Irish chef Kevin Dundon is behind the superb cuisine, and calls the concept "fine dining standards in a casual context -- with Celtic creativity."

Chef Dundon has cooked for notables such as Queen Elizabeth, U2 and Brad Pitt. He is best known for his own television series on the UK Food Channel and as proprietor of the prestigious Dunbrody Country House Hotel & Restaurant in southeast Ireland.

"The menu is contemporary, but you'll still find Irish classics at Raglan Road," said Dundon. The diverse dishes all start with high-quality ingredients," he explained.

"We know the ship and skipper's name for each fish, and the Irish bacon is from a local butcher," he continued. "Choice ingredients are the heart of each dish, all fresh, nothing frozen."

There's plenty of upscale bar food for noshing, like smoked salmon and cream cheese served with blinis, scallops with a lime dipping sauce and battered cocktail sausages served with a mustard dip -- bite-sized servings all cleverly presented on upright forks. The decadent "Smokie City" is layers of smoked cod and Wexford cheddar and double cream, served with crusty bread for dipping. Little crocks of pate with chutney are perfect with a creamy dark ale.

The roast rack of lamb arrives with a light, broth-based Irish stew. An indulgent loin of bacon is glazed with Irish Mist and served with creamy potatoes and braised cabbage. And, of course, there are beer-battered fish and chips with a side of tartar sauce.

For sweet endings, the Dunbrody Kiss, a decadent chocolate mousse with a crunchy caramel base drizzled with chocolate ganache sauce, is irresistible. Other favorites include bread-and-butter pudding with butterscotch and crème anglaise and a Baileys coffee cream pot.

"We're taking Irish food to a new level," explained Dundon. Chef Brian Kenney, who trained in Ireland with Dundon, is at the helm of the Raglan Road kitchen. Dundon was pivotal in setting up the kitchen, creating the menu and training the staff, and will travel from Ireland several times a year. When he's away, Dundon communicates with the staff via a Web camera installed in the 21st century kitchen.

To complete the authenticity and complement the tradition, a full selection of Irish stouts, lagers, creamy ales and premium spirits is served. Add nightly live music by a band direct from Ireland and the true Irish ambiance is complete.

"Raglan Road is authentic in every way," said Nolan, who hails from Dublin. "It's like lifting a pub from Ireland and dropping it in Orlando. It oozes Irishness."

 
Above left: Keen Eye for the Shepherd's Pie
Above right: Celtic Chique - Baby chicken finished with a light apple cider glaze
Copyright 2005. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

Above: Baileys Coffee Cream Pot dessert
Copyright 2005. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

27 September 2005: Raglan Road opening date confirmed

Raglan Road is now confirmed to officially open on October 21st 2005.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Irish hospitality and a bit of blarney come to Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort when Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant officially opens Oct. 21. Raglan Road delivers an experience immersed in genuine Irish atmosphere -- from food and drink to live music and entertainment.

Traditional and contemporary Irish music, storytelling and dance help create a spirited social ambience and the friendly pub staff brings Emerald Isle charm to Downtown Disney. Irish musicians entertain nightly and guests are encouraged to sing, clap and dance along to the lively performances.

The Raglan Road menu blends traditional Irish fare and fresh ingredients, all with a modern flair. Natural tastes, flavor and quality prevail in dishes such as Raglan Rack (rack of lamb on a delicate Irish stew consommé), Sea Leek (oven-baked fillet of sea bass served on a fondue of leeks) and Kevin's Kudos (oven-roasted loin of bacon served with braised cabbage and creamed potato).

With capacity for 600 guests, Raglan Road is warm and welcoming with custom furnishings, lighting and wall coverings -- all designed and built in Ireland by Irish craftspeople. Irish antiques, ornamentation and bric-a-brac complete the authentic décor.

Raglan Road is owned and operated by Great Irish Pubs Florida, Inc., the Irish-owned company that previously created Nine Fine Irishmen at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Pleasure Island club admission will not be required for entrance to Raglan Road.

18 September 2005: Raglan Road opening date

Raglan Road (see 27 July update below) was due to open in the Summer of 2005. This has now been put back to late September 2005.

27 August 2005: The Walt Disney World Triathlon

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The Walt Disney World Triathlon on Sept. 25 will include a 1.5K swim (1 mile), a 40K bike (23.9 miles) and a 10K run (6.2 miles) around Walt Disney World Resort. During the Walt Disney World Triathlon Expo at Disney's Contemporary Resort on Sept. 23-24, athletes can see the latest state-of-the-art products and talk to triathlon experts.

The triathlon starts at Disney's Contemporary Resort at 7:30 a.m. Participants will encounter a unique and challenging point-to-point format course. The swim will begin at North Beach and dive into Seven Seas Lagoon. The first transition will be staged under the shadows of the monorail beams just outside the theme park. The bike-run transition will be staged at Epcot, with the 10K run taking competitors around World Showcase Lagoon into Future World, past Spaceship Earth and finally outside the Epcot main entrance to the finish line.

Entry fees for the Walt Disney World Triathlon are $115 per individual and $190 per relay team. All participants must be 15 years of age or older on the day of the event and they must have a USA Triathlon card to compete. USA Triathlon memberships can be purchased during the Triathlon Expo on Sept. 23-24 at Disney's Contemporary Resort.

Event information and registration materials are available online at disneyworldsports.com

17 August 2005: Water Park Extra Magic Hours

Disney are set to conduct a trial of Extra Magic Hours at water parks. The current schedule (still subject to change) is:

EMH Morning (1 Hour prior to open) 9-10am, at Blizzard Beach on Aug 31, Sep 7, 14, 21, and 28.
EMH Night (3 hours after close) 7-10pm, at Typhoon Lagoon Aug 27, Sep 3, 10, 17, and 24.

27 July 2005: More Raglan Road details

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Irish hospitality and a bit of blarney will be coming to Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort in the form of Raglan Road, an authentic Irish pub and restaurant. Scheduled to open in summer 2005, Raglan Road will feature the very best of Irish food, flair, heritage and entertainment.

The Irish culture is known for its warmth, character and hospitality, and the new Downtown Disney pub promises to deliver an experience immersed in genuine Irish atmosphere -- from food and drink to music and entertainment.

Raglan Road will be warm and welcoming with one-of-a-kind fixtures and furnishings -- all designed and built in Ireland by Irish craftspeople. Additional décor items include Irish antiques and bric-a-brac.

Traditional and contemporary Irish music, storytelling and dance will help create a lively social ambience and the friendly pub staff will bring Emerald Isle charm to Downtown Disney.

The restaurant's gastronomic delights will be the work of Chef Kevin Dundon, one of Ireland's best-known chefs. He will introduce a menu that blends traditional Irish fare and fresh ingredients, all with a modern flair. Chef Dundon's credits include cooking for celebrities and heads of state, overseeing deluxe international hotel cuisine, opening a premiere hotel and restaurant, and appearing in his own television series.

"We are thrilled to introduce an authentic Irish pub to Downtown Disney," said Djuan Rivers, vice president of Downtown Disney. "The superior level of quality, energy and appeal that this new venue brings is a perfect compliment to Downtown Disney's lineup of world-class retail, dining and entertainment."

Raglan Road will be owned and operated by Great Irish Pubs Florida, Inc., the Irish-owned company that previously created Nine Fine Irishmen at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

"We are working extremely hard here in Ireland preparing to deliver what we believe will be the very best expression of Irish hospitality ever seen in the U.S.," said Paul Nolan, one of the establishment's co-owners. "We are extremely proud and excited to have the opportunity to bring a real slice of Ireland to Downtown Disney."

Raglan Road will occupy the building that formerly housed The Jazz Company. Pleasure Island club admission will not be required for entrance to the pub.

21 July 2005: New Shopping & Dining Gift Card

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Walt Disney World Resort is introducing a Shopping & Dining Gift Card that allows guests to conveniently treat gift-recipients to Disney dining and shopping experiences.

The cards can be purchased with $5 to $1,500 of value -- for use at select Walt Disney World merchandise and food and beverage locations. The cards are available at select merchandise and food and beverage locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort beginning Aug 1.

18 May 2005: Enhancements to PhotoPass coming soon

Disney's PhotoPass photographers will be available at more locations around Walt Disney World Resort -- at Downtown Disney and some Walt Disney World hotels as well as inside the four theme parks -- and users of Disney's PhotoPass will be able to create photo scrapbooks, photo-slide-show DVDs and other special mementos.

25 April 2005: Disney's Price Slice golf savings

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Most of the time, a "slice" is something golfers would like to avoid. But for nearly five months beginning May 2, Walt Disney World golf is serving up Disney's Price Slice -- special savings on tee times after 10 a.m.

With Disney's Price Slice, golfers can test a championship course for rates as low as $45 after 10 a.m. daily between May 2 and Sept. 29. Rates vary depending upon which Disney course the golfer plays: Palm ($45), Lake Buena Vista ($45), Eagle Pines ($50), Osprey Ridge ($60).

Rates include greens fees and use of an electric cart. Tee times can be booked online (www.disneyworldgolf.com) up to 60 days in advance, or by calling 407/WDW-GOLF.

25 April 2005: Rehab for Disney's Magnolia golf course

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Disney's Magnolia golf course, a PGA Tour event site every year since 1971, is undergoing an "extreme makeover" this summer in preparation for the 35th annual Funai Classic at Walt Disney World Resort in October. The makeover, which begins May 9, will include resurfacing greens, laser-leveling tees, extending tee boxes and building new tee boxes.

When the Magnolia reopens on Sept. 10, the greens will feature TifEagle turf, a hybrid bermudagrass with playability more like northern bentgrass than the previous surface (Tifdwarf). The course will also play about 300 yards longer -- at approximately 7,500 yards from the championship tees. Ten holes will be lengthened, either by enlarging the tee area or by building a new championship tee box.

The Magnolia is the second of Disney's five championship courses to undergo green resurfacing. The Palm course was resurfaced in 2004, and the change is getting favorable reviews from players, according to Gary Myers, manager of golf course maintenance. "Right now, the Palm greens are the best -- which is what we would expect. The six-year program is to bring all the courses up to that standard."

While the Magnolia course is closed for the makeover from May 9 until Sept. 10, players can test the Palm (also used by the pros during the Funai Classic), Osprey Ridge, Eagle Pines, Lake Buena Vista and the nine-hole Oak Trail. To book tee times, players can call 407/WDW-GOLF or go online at www.disneygolf.com .

The 2005 Funai Classic will be played Oct. 20-23. The $4.4 million PGA Tour event will pay $792,000 to the winner from a field of 144 professionals. Ryan Palmer is reigning champion. Advance tickets are available by calling 407/835-2525.

15 March 2005: Crush 'n' Gusher officially open

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 15, 2005) -- "Flash flooding" takes on a whole new meaning for Walt Disney World guests when they experience Crush 'n' Gusher, a new white-knuckle "water coaster" thrill ride that opened today at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park.

 
Copyright 2005 THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

Crush 'n' Gusher launched with a splash Tuesday. Local swimmers sloshed and rode the new attraction as soap star Kirsten Storms ("Days of Our Lives") emceed.

Walt Disney World guests find themselves immersed in a dense tropical jungle amid the towering remains -- rusted-out and dilapidated -- of a fruit exporting plant. The once-landlocked packing plant known as Tropical Amity now sits on the shores of Hideaway Bay, a body of water left in the wake of a torrential storm.

The wobbly remains of the wash facility -- what used to be a controlled environment with fruit flowing gently down to the packing plant -- is now a turbulent series of gushing water flumes. It is these flumes, spiraling out of control through twisted and crumbling wash spillways with crushing force, that redefine "flash flooding" for Typhoon Lagoon guests.

While riding Crush 'n' Gusher, guests are whisked away on inflatable rafts and immediately begin to experience the up-and-down sensations of a roller coaster, made possible by utilizing some of today's latest water ride innovations. Powerful water jets propel guests through cavernous twists and turns, eventually spitting them out into the tranquil waters of Hideaway Bay.

"We were so excited about offering this state-of-the-art water ride technology to our guests, that we created three separate ride systems for them to experience," said Patrick Brennan, lead creative designer for Walt Disney Imagineering. "In addition to being the only water coaster thrill ride of its kind in Central Florida, Crush 'n' Gusher is the first-ever water coaster attraction in North America to offer guests three different ride experiences at one location."

"Crush 'n' Gusher is a great addition to Disney's Typhoon Lagoon," said Reggie Williams, vice president of Disney's Wide World of Sports and Water Parks. "With the thrills and excitement that this water coaster ride offers, Crush 'n' Gusher is like having our very own E-Ticket attraction."

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon, itself the result of a calamity of nature (so the legend goes), continues to make the best of a bad situation -- in this case the uncovered structural remains of Tropical Amity. With the newly discovered water coaster thrill ride of Crush 'n' Gusher in the backyard jungle of Typhoon Lagoon, guests have one more reason to enjoy this tropical paradise.

Fast Facts:

• Crush 'n' Gusher is the only water roller coaster in North America that has three unique and separate rides off of one tower.
• Each Crush 'n' Gusher water jet nozzle puts out 1350 gallons per minute.
• The average length of each slide is over 400 feet.
• One slide from Crush 'n' Gusher can fill a standard home-size pool in about one minute.
  Crush 'n' Gusher can fill up Disney's Typhoon Lagoon wave pool (2.7 million gallons) in about 3 hours.
• If you were to connect the average fire hose to a single Crush 'n' Gusher jet nozzle, it could shoot water over The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror attraction at Disney-MGM Studios.
  Ride height requirement is 48 inches.

Whether bound for a Disney water park or theme park, a new and innovative Walt Disney World ticket pricing system known as "Magic Your Way" offers the chance for guests to customize their vacations. The Magic Plus Pack Option includes entrance to Walt Disney World water parks. For Florida residents, ticket discounts have been introduced to allow them to maximize their Disney theme park fun.

 

14 March 2005: Crush n Gusher Photos (Thanks to SeanR)

27 February 2005: Matthew McConaughey visits WDW

Actor Matthew McCona