Disney World Confirms New America Attraction For The EPCOT World Showcase

A subtle update has appeared at one of Walt Disney World Resort‘s most patriotic destinations, and the timing couldn’t be more fitting. Let’s take a look at the latest news out of the American Adventure World Showcase Pavilion at EPCOT.

On May 12, WDWNT reported that a brand-new sign for Voices of Liberty had been installed at the entrance to the American Adventure World Showcase Pavilion. The sign, mounted in a white outdoor frame on the left side of the main building’s entrance, features an image of the Voices of Liberty singers, positioned alongside the Liberty Bell and the original American flag.

The new display includes showtime magnets that Disney cast members can add or remove depending on the day’s schedule, giving guests real-time information about when they can catch a performance. The sign describes the group as offering “A Capella Performances Featuring Music from the American Songbook.”

For those unfamiliar, Voices of Liberty is an a capella ensemble that performs multiple times daily inside the rotunda of the American Adventure’s main building.

What the Sign Replaced

The white frame, now dedicated to Voices of Liberty, previously advertised the American Adventure theatrical show — the pavilion’s flagship attraction, which sends guests on a guided tour through United States history narrated by audio-animatronic figures of Ben Franklin and Mark Twain. That show still has its own advertisement on the right side of the main entrance, so both experiences are now represented at the building’s exterior, each with its own dedicated display.

More America-Themed Celebrations at EPCOT This Summer

The Voices of Liberty signage update arrives as EPCOT gears up for a summer centered on American pride. Walt Disney World Resort is preparing to mark the United States’ 250th birthday with the debut of an updated Soarin’ Across America attraction, alongside the extended run of the “Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors” exhibit by former President George W. Bush.

https://www.disneyfanatic.com/author/jess-colopy/

Bird’s Eye View Of EPCOT Reveals Stunning Expansion

Disney is adding a brand new section to the existing France pavilion inside the World Showcase at EPCOT. This new expansion will debut Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure attraction at Walt Disney World. Fans are eagerly anticipating an opening date for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and the rest of this new addition.

While we do not yet have an official opening date, we do have some incredible bird’s eye view photos of this new land, thanks to pilot and photographer, Jonathan Micheal Salazar (@TheDisneyPilot on Instagram).

We have been keeping a close eye on the expansion coming to the France pavilion. Disney has opened a small portion of the new area which contains restrooms and what will be home to a new grab-and-go snack window called, Le Creperie De Paris.

Thanks to these photos we can see the beautiful Ratatouille-themed fountain that will be directly outside of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure attraction entrance. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is an attraction that can be found at Disneyland Paris, EPCOT is bringing this beloved attraction to the U.S.

You also get a sense of how large this new area will be when it opens for guests. Additionally, you can see the backside of the temporary structure that is separating the new courtyard from the recently opened walkway.

As you can see from the aerial photos, the Disney Skyliner also offers great views of the courtyard, so be sure to look outside your window next time you travel on the Skyliner to or from EPCOT!

So, when will the expansion of the France pavilion and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure open?

Disney has stated that Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will open with the rest of the France expansion in 2021. While we still do not have a date, we hope to see one as we get closer to the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney has even added a sign under the revealed archway for the upcoming Ratatouille attraction saying “opening 2021”!

Source: https://insidethemagic.net/

At Disney World, 4 Hotels In Pilot Program To Accept Dogs

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (AP) — Four hotels at will now allow guests to bring dogs.

The hotels near Orlando, Florida, are Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney Port Orleans Resort-Riverside, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. The Yacht Club adds $75 to daily room rates for canine guests, the other three, $50.

The pilot program is accepting reservations through October 2018. Two dogs are permitted per guest room.

A Pluto’s Welcome Kit includes a mat, bowls, pet ID tag, plastic bags, puppy pads, and dog walking maps. Doggy day care and other pet services are offered nearby at Best Friends, an on-property pet care facility.

Disney says dogs staying in its hotels “must be well behaved, leashed in resort public areas and properly vaccinated.”

José Andrés' ThinkFoodGroup Announces Plans To Open Its Jaleo Spanish Flagship at Disney Springs

Andrés' ThinkFoodGroup is proud to announce that its popular Jaleo brand will be opening a new location at Disney Springs in 2018, bringing the spirit and flavors of Spain to the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The new Jaleo at Disney Springs will be Andrés' biggest and most spectacular location yet, housed in a dynamic, multi-level space at the iconic resort.

 

First opened in downtown Washington, D.C. in 1993, Jaleo represents the very best of Spanish cuisine and design, seen through the creative lens of Chef Andrés and his team. Jaleo offers an unparalleled tapas experience in a lively setting befitting its name, which means "revelry."  Its menu highlights the many facets of Spanish cuisine, both traditional and cutting-edge, featuring authentic wood-fired paellas and other Spanish favorites in addition to sangrias and a premier selection of Spanish wines.  With five locations currently in the Washington D.C. area, Las Vegas and Mexico City (named J by José Andrés), Jaleo opens for the first time in Florida, in the heart of internationally-renowned Disney Springs-the retail, dining and entertainment district inspired by Florida's charming waterfront towns, historic architecture and natural beauty.

 

Jaleo at Disney Springs will feature an extensive menu of tapas reflecting the rich regional diversity of traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine. Highlights will include a variety of authentic paellas cooked over the wood fire, Spanish specialties such as hand-carved Jamon Iberico de Bellota and wood-grilled Iberico pork, as well as signature dishes such as Gambas al ajillo, shrimp sautéed with garlic and chili and Pollo Croquetas, classic, Spanish chicken fritters. On the restaurant's ground level, a grab-n-go storefront will offer signature Spanish-style sandwiches, or bocatas, of José's native Spain.  Jaleo at Disney Springs will also feature a robust wine program, sangria and a selection of cocktail offerings including modern interpretations and tableside preparations.

 

Designed by renowned Spanish designer Juli Capella, the multi-level space will feature a breathtaking new exterior architecture as well as a vibrant, theatrical décor representing the colorful, dynamic culture of Spain.

 

 

 (www.thinkfoodgroup.com)

Named one of Time's "100 Most Influential People" and "Outstanding Chef" by the James Beard Foundation, José Andrés is an internationally recognized culinary innovator, author, educator, television personality, humanitarian and chef/owner of ThinkFoodGroup. A pioneer of Spanish tapas in the United States, he is known for his avant-garde cuisine and his award-winning group of 27 restaurants throughout the country and beyond. His innovative minibar by José Andrés earned two Michelin stars in 2016 and with that, José is the only chef globally that has both a 2-star Michelin restaurant and 4 Bib Gourmands. Andrés' work has earned numerous awards including the 2015 National Humanities Medal, one of 12 distinguished recipients of the award from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

 

About Jaleo (www.Jaleo.com)

Since its debut in Washington D.C.'s Penn Quarter in 1993, Jaleo has evolved to represent modern Spain at every moment. With each extension in Maryland, Virginia, Las Vegas and most recently with J by José Andrés in Mexico City, it embraces the local community while staying true to its roots: providing a comfortable, welcoming space in which to explore, discover and share the incredible spirit of Spain. Renowned for its award-winning assortment of tapas, the traditional small plates of Spain, as well as savory paellas, sangrias and a fine selection of Spanish wines and sherries, Jaleo celebrates these flavors in a festive, inviting atmosphere. Jaleo is located in Washington, DC; Bethesda, Maryland; Arlington, Virginia; Las Vegas; Mexico City and will debut at Disney Springs in Orlando, Florida in 2018.

 

About Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a one-of-a-kind retail, dining and entertainment district located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. With its namesake springs, beautiful open-air promenades and lakefront setting, Disney Springs evokes the charm of Florida waterfront towns at the turn of the 20th century. It's also home to a collection of more than 150 shops and restaurants, including top-name retail brands, specialty boutiques and dining experiences created by celebrity and award-winning chefs.  Located in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Disney Springs is open daily. 

Disney Parks Adopt Seasonal Pricing On 1-Day Ticket

by Thomas Smith, Disney Parks

As regular readers know, it’s an exciting time to visit Disney Parks as new fan favorites come to life at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.

New Star Wars experiences have already opened at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. And, this year, several new experiences are expected to open on both coasts, such as the new Soarin’ Around the World at Disney California Adventure park and Epcot, a “Frozen”-inspired musical at Disney California Adventure park, new nighttime experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Frozen Ever After attraction at Epcot and a new stage show at Magic Kingdom Park.

As you may have read in the news, the demand for Disney Parks continues to grow, particularly during peak periods. At the same time, we have an unwavering commitment to exceeding the expectations of all our guests. That is why we continue to expand our parks with new attractions like those noted above, as well as entire new themed lands based on AVATAR, Star Wars and “Toy Story.”

It is also why we continue to look for ways to help spread out visitation. So, beginning tomorrow, we are shifting to seasonal pricing for 1-Day tickets. It’s an approach that you are probably familiar with from many other areas, including sports, entertainment and travel.

How does it work? Each month is divided into value, regular and peak days with an 8-11 month calendar available for viewing online. Here’s an example, if guests plan their visit for September, they’ll have a variety of options, including many days in the value period, which will give them the opportunity to pay less for a 1-Day ticket. If they plan to visit during a peak period, like the winter holidays, they will pay more. Purchasing a 1-Day ticket in a non-peak period, or choosing multi-day tickets and annual passes, will provide additional flexibility and value.

Seasonal pricing for a 1-Day ticket and price increases for multi-day tickets go into effect at Disney Parks on Sunday, Feb. 28. You can check out our Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resortpages for more details.

#DisneyKids: Springtime At Epcot

by Jamie Langdon

Spring has almost sprung at Walt Disney World Resort and it is a great time to visit Epcot with little ones. The weather is typically beautiful, and with the start of Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival on March 2, there are a lot of special activities to experience. My kiddos are always thrilled that the festival offers colorful themed playgrounds for them to explore, and the new Music Garden Melodies Playground is sure to be a huge hit! Fans of the movie “Cars” will want to check out the Cactus Road Rally interactive play garden, where small children can stretch their legs. Once some energy is burned off the playground, don’t miss the magical Butterflies on Go butterfly garden – it’s a favorite of my family’s. We put together a handy chart of things to do with kids this spring at Epcot, which you can see here. Does your #DisneyKids have any other favorite activities?

Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival’ Debuts At Epcot

‘

 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Editorial Content Manager

---

We recently shared plans for a new “Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival” experience to open in Future World at Epcot, and we’re happy to announce that this new offering will officially open its doors today.

This new experience will feature a look into the visionary minds behind some of the world’s most iconic animated films today. Once inside the theater, guests can put on their 3D glasses and enter the imaginative worlds of three animated shorts – “Get A Horse,” “For The Birds” and “La Luna” – which will burst to life on the big screen (and in the theater) like never before.

“Get a Horse” stars Mickey Mouse and features Walt Disney himself as the voice of the iconic character. This black-and-white, hand-drawn short follows Mickey, his favorite gal pal Minnie Mouse and their friends Horace Horsecollar and Clarabelle Cow as they delight in a musical wagon ride — until Peg-Leg Pete shows up and tries to run them off the road.

“For The Birds” opens to show one by one, a flock of small birds perch on a telephone wire. Sitting close together has problems enough, and then along comes a large dopey bird that tries to join them. The birds of a feather can’t help but make fun of him—and their clique mentality proves embarrassing in the end.

And lastly, “La Luna” is the timeless fable of a young boy coming of age in the most peculiar circumstances. Tonight is the very first time his Papa and Grandpa are taking him to work. In an old wooden boat they row far out to sea, and with no land in sight, they stop and wait. A big surprise awaits the little boy as he discovers his family’s most unusual line of work. Should he follow the example of his Papa or his Grandpa? Will he be able to find his own way amidst their conflicting opinions and timeworn traditions?

Orlando Named No. 1 Hot Spot For Travelers In 2015

 

At the center of I-Drive 360, the Orlando Eye offers breathtaking views of Central Florida

According to Priceline.com, Orlando is the No. 1 "hot spot" for travelers in 2015. After a multi-year surge of blockbuster expansions at Orlando's world-class theme parks, Orlando's retail, dining and entertainment scene is following suit in 2015. Visit Orlando, the destination's official tourism association, uncovered 15 new openings 2015 travelers will be among the first to experience:

INTERNATIONAL DRIVE

In the heart of Orlando's tourism corridor, International Drive will see significant development in 2015 with the addition of several retail, dining and entertainment venues.

1. I-Drive 360, a new entertainment complex from Merlin Entertainments, will open a trio of new attractions. At the heart of the complex, The Orlando Eye is a 400-foot-tall (12.92-meter) observation wheel providing breathtaking views of Central Florida in all directions within fully enclosed, air-conditioned glass capsules. Madame Tussauds, the world's most famous celebrity wax attraction, offers visitors the ultimate fame experience with its signature red carpet treatment. SEA LIFE Orlando delivers a new wave of underwater adventures with beautiful displays of colorful fish, sharks, jellyfish, sea horses and more, that turn the traditional aquarium observation on its head. The Yardhouse, Tin Roof and more retail, restaurants and entertainment yet to be announced, will add to the experience.

2. Orlando welcomes one of South Beach's hottest dance clubs with the addition of Mangos Tropical Café. With 55,000 square feet (5,109 square meters) of entertainment space, the Orlando location is a massive restaurant and nightlife destination offering high-energy entertainment for a wide variety of tastes. Guests will enjoy Salsa, Bachatta, Reggae and Pop performances with Floribbean Cuisine and tropical cocktails.

3. Escapology Orlando brings a new kind of entertainment to Orlando with its first U.S. location. The attraction challenges guests to be their own heroes in a thrilling game of adventure and mystery. Teams of up to six players are locked in a themed room with just 60 minutes to combine clues, solve puzzles and discover the key to escape.

4. Nearby International Drive, The Florida Mall takes coloring to a new level with the opening of Crayola Experience. The 70,000-square-foot (6,503-square-meter) attraction will offer 25 hands-on activities.

5. The list of dining and entertainment options unique to Orlando continues to grow with the addition of The Whiskey on Sand Lake Road, welcoming lovers of gourmet burgers, craft cocktails and rock 'n roll fun. With over 100 brands of whiskey for the thirsty connoisseur, the venue will also host live entertainment, from musical guests to head-to-head "food fights," where local chefs will pit recipe against recipe.

THEME PARKS

6. Walt Disney World Resort is transforming Downtown Disney into Disney Springs doubling the number of shops, restaurants and other venues. The new area will open in phases starting in 2015 and include, Morimoto Asia, a one-of-a-kind dining experience created by Chef Masaharu Morimoto, of Iron Chef America fame. For the master chef's first pan-Asian dining experience, Morimoto Asia's extraordinary, 36-foot (11-meter) tall, two-story layout includes a vast range of areas to explore including open terraces, a grand hall, private rooms, long bar, cocktail lounge, waterside seating and more.

7. The BOATHOUSE is an upscale, waterfront dining restaurant at Disney Springs that will immerse guests with experiences beyond the cuisine. Guests can listen to live music or take a romantic Captain's guided tour aboard The Venezia, a beautifully crafted 40-foot (12-meter) wooden Italian Water Taxi featuring champagne toasts and chocolate-covered strawberries. The BOATHOUSE will be showcased in an expansive restaurant with three distinctive bars, one built over the water. Guests will enjoy a gourmet menu served daily until 2 a.m. featuring steaks, chops, fresh seafood and a raw bar.

8. STK Orlando blends two concepts into one—the modern steakhouse and a chic lounge. Unique features include a live DJ, high-energy atmosphere and a sleek environment designed to encourage guests to interact and mingle. STK Orlando boasts the only rooftop dining venue in Disney Springs.

9. LEGOLAND Florida Resort will open a new land called Heartlake City, set to welcome guests this summer. The expansion will include a horse-themed disc coaster called Mia's Riding Adventure, an interactive show titled 'Friends to the Rescue' and new shops inside the Heartlake Mall.

10. SeaWorld Orlando will debut an all-new show, Clyde & Seamore's Sea Lion High, a hilarious tale, filled with amazing animal behaviors and splashy audience fun. The comedic sea lion duo will be joined by mischievous otters, a 2,300 lb. (1043 kg) walrus and a cast of goofy human characters.

DOWNTOWN ORLANDO

11. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts delivers a stellar lineup of 2015 entertainment for its inaugural season: Broadway productions including Disney's Newsies, Motown the Musical, Pippin and Disney's Beauty and the Beast; big-name musicians John Mellancamp, Jason Mraz and Idina Menzel; and comedians Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno and Bill Maher will complement an ongoing Jazz Roots series and Orlando Ballet season.

12. Orlando City Soccer Club is Major League Soccer's newest expansion team set to debut in 2015 with global soccer icon, Kaká. The Orlando City Soccer Club will kick-off their first MLS season at the newly rebuilt Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. After a $207 million reconstruction, sports fans will enjoy an all-new lower bowl with more legroom, improved broadband and Wi-Fi coverage and expanded concession with healthy and gluten-free options.

13. An influx of restaurants will join new downtown Orlando venues in 2015, including: Two Chefs Seafood, featuring comfort food and seafood from former chefs of Emeril's Orlando and The Palm Restaurant; and North Quarter Tavern, a chef-driven neighborhood tavern by the team behind downtown Orlando's power-lunch staple, Citrus Restaurant.

AREA HOTELS

14. Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort will feature 20 Bungalows on Seven Seas Lagoon and 360 Deluxe Studios. The Bungalows will be the first of this type of accommodation at Disney, sleep up to eight guests, and feature a plunge pool with views of fireworks over Magic Kingdom Park. The first phase is scheduled to open in 2015. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is getting a $125 million, multi-phased, multi-story upgrade.

15. The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes will welcome new restaurant concept based on the resort's 13,000-square-foot (1,208-square-meter) farm. Whisper Creek Farm: The Kitchen, will serve up farm-fresh food and signature craft beer.