Over The Top Mommy

Disney

Celebrate Lunar New Year Jan. 20 – Feb. 5 at Disney California Adventure Park

Disney California Adventure Park is getting ready for a bigger-than-even Lunar New Year Celebratin beginning Friday, Jan. 20 through Sunday Feb. 5, 2017. The extravagant celebration for the Year of the Rooster will take place over the span of 17 fun-filled days and will includec olorful live performances, fun-filled activities, beautiful decor, Disney characters in their Lunar New Year costumes, and special food and merchandise offerings. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Mulan and Mushu will join guests for this very special time of year! lunar-new-year-mickey-minnie Guests at the Lunar New Year Celebration will discover new Disney magic as they experience Asian culture through a variety of live performances, including Chinese acrobats and authentic musicians. Each night prior to “World of Color,” a new feature called “Hurry Home” will tell the tale of a journey home for Lunar New Year. The six-minute feature is presented in sequences, utilizing projected animation along with the lighting, special effects and powerful fountains of “World of Color.”

As “Hurry Home” unfolds, guests will get to follow along on the journey of a Little Lantern returning home for the annual celebration of good luck and fortune. Little Lantern encounters three “dream sequences,” featuring appearances by Mulan and the dragon Mushu. “Hurry Home” employs two contrasting animation styles, with fully rendered CG animation and sequences inspired by traditional Chinese paper cut-out style animation. The story is scored with music created for the opening ceremony of Shanghai Disney Resort by Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun (“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon”).

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION – This year's Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure Park is expanded for 17 days from Friday, Jan. 20 through Sunday Feb. 5, 2017, and pays tribute to the Year of the Rooster. Guests will celebrate and experience Asian culture with delicious food, colorful live performances, a six-minute feature called "Hurry Home" presented before “World of Color” and fun-filled activities. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland)

Lunar New Year, traditionally celebrated within Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures, commemorates the moment when both the sun and the moon begin their journey for another year. Highlights of the Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure include:

  • Three new Asian marketplaces offering foods inspired by Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures.
  • Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Mulan and Mushu, dressed in their Lunar New Year attire to welcome guests and join them for photos.
  • Live performances with an impressive array of authentic performers, acrobats, musicians and more.
  • A New Year’s Wishing Wall, where guests may add their own wishes for a wonderful future
  • Lunar New Year décor, including beautiful ornamental lanterns and banners wishing guests a Happy Lunar New Year in English, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.
  • Lunar New Year commemorative merchandise, including a specially designed t-shirt, pin and the traditional red envelopes for gift-giving.

For a limited time only, Disneyland Resort guests may celebrate the tradition, sights, sounds and tastes of Lunar New Year with a touch of Disney magic, only at Disney California Adventure. For more information and the daily entertainment schedules, go here. You can also read more about Lunar New Year at Disneyland Resort on the Disney Parks Blog here.

This is not a sponsored post. Photos are property of Disneyland Resort. All opinions are 100% my own. 

The Main Street Electrical Parade Returns To Disneyland on January 20

The Main Street Electrical Parade, one of the most popular of all Disney parades, returns to Disneyland Park Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, with all the lights, sounds, music and fun that have made it a beloved icon. With nightly performances through Sunday, June 18, guests will have a limited time to enjoy the parade’s encore performance.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE RETURNS TO DISNEYLAND RESORT – Brought to light in the early 1970s, the Main Street Electrical Parade helped establish a Disney Parks reputation for innovative, trend-setting live entertainment. As floats illuminate the parade route, this vibrant spectacular brings a variety of Disney animated feature films to life with approximately half a million twinkling lights. The parade's iconic musical theme, the electrically synthesized "Baroque Hoedown," is a beloved fan-favorite interwoven with classic Disney themes. The Main Street Electrical Parade will celebrate a colorful homecoming at Disneyland Park beginning Friday, Jan. 20, 2017. (Disneyland Resort)Accompanied by treasured Disney tunes interwoven with the distinctive “Baroque Hoedown”
synthesized soundtrack, the Main Street Electrical Parade brings a variety of beloved Disney stories to life in parade floats covered in approximately half a million twinkling lights. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Goofy lead the way and Cinderella, Peter Pan, Snow White, Pinocchio and Alice in Wonderland are among the characters whose stories unfold along the parade route. Tinker Bell now appears with other fairies on the Peter Pan float, original Main Street Electrical Parade opening float. MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE RETURNS TO DISNEYLAND RESORT – Brought to light in the early 1970s, the Main Street Electrical Parade helped establish a Disney Parks reputation for innovative, trend-setting live entertainment. As floats illuminate the parade route, this vibrant spectacular brings a variety of Disney animated feature films to life with approximately half a million twinkling lights. The parade's iconic musical theme, the electrically synthesized "Baroque Hoedown," is a beloved fan-favorite interwoven with classic Disney themes. The Main Street Electrical Parade will celebrate a colorful homecoming at Disneyland Park beginning Friday, Jan. 20, 2017. (Disneyland Resort)A whimsical train pulls a giant drum unit that proclaims “Disneyland Presents … Main Street Electrical Parade” in bright lights.main-street-electrical-parade-dragonSome of the parade’s most impressive scenes are the 23-foot-tall Clock Tower looming over Cinderella’s Ball, attended by elegant ballroom dancers in costumes covered with lights; and the 108-foot-long finale unit, a red-white-and-blue tribute to America. Elliot, the smoke-breathing, 2 tail-wagging “Pete’s Dragon,” weighs more than 5,600 pounds and is 16 feet tall, more than 10 feet wide and 38 feet long. Guests will need to keep an eye out for Elliot, who disappears from time to time along the route. main-street-electrical-parade-shipThe Main Street Electrical Parade was performed more than 3,600 times for more than 75
million guests during its original run in Disneyland Park. The enduring popularity of the parade led to Electrical Parades at Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The parade returned to the Disneyland Resort with an engagement in Disney California Adventure Park from 2001 to 2010.main-street-electrical-parade-premiere-partyGuests who wish to be among the first to welcome the parade back to Disneyland may
purchase a special, separate ticket for an after-hours premiere on Thursday evening, Jan.19. After the park closes, premiere ticket holders will enjoy a night of exclusive access to select Disneyland attractions and select restaurants from 7:30 to midnight, along with an exciting performance of the Main Street Electrical Parade before its official return on Jan. 20. Tickets to the premiere go on sale for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders on Tuesday, Dec. 6, and to the general public on Tuesday, Dec. 13. They may be purchased at any Disneyland Resort ticket booth or by calling 714-781-INFO (714-781-4636). For more information about the Main Street Electrical Parade premiere party, happening after hours on Jan. 19, go here.newport-beach-boat-parade

This year, a specially decorated Main Street Electrical Parade boat will appear in the 108th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, Dec. 14 through 18 in Newport Harbor. Mickey Mouse will serve as Grand Marshal for the popular boat parade on opening night, Wednesday, Dec. 14, accompanied by Disney Ambassador Allie Kawamoto. For more information about the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, visit here.

This is not a sponsored post. Some images and logos are property of Disney and Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. All opinions are 100% my own.

Guide to the Holidays at Disneyland Resort

The Disneyland Resort is such a wonderful place to visit with your family or friends during the Holidays! This year, Holiday time at the Resort kicked off on November 10 and both parks were decorated and ready to welcome guests who were visiting for some holiday joy. disneyland-holidays-photo-passNow through January 8, guests at the Resort will find many different experiences and offerings. Although it’s possible to see it all in one day, I recommend purchasing a 2-day Park Hopper (or more days) so you can take your time because there’s a lot to see and do. disneyland-holidays-park-hopper-ticketsHere’s my own personal guide to the Holidays at Disneyland Resort.must-dos-at-disney-california-adventure-parkFestival of Holidays
One of the new additions to the Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park this year is the Festival of Holidays. There’s music, dancing, food, and heartwarming holiday festivities inspired by cultural traditions from around the world.festival-of-holidaysfestival-of-holidays-guideWith so many little food and drink themed houses set up in the Festive Foods Marketplace, it’s a foodie’s holiday dream come true! If you’ve ever been to the Food and Wine Festival at Epcot, it may remind you of that. It’s so much fun to go “house to house” and sample different beers, wines and savory & sweet treats! Check out the Complete Guide to Festive Eats here on the Disney Parks Blog. festival-of-holidays-christmas-craftsAnother fun part about the Festival of Holidays are the craft tables set up around the park. Kids can sit and spend time learning about different traditional holidays celebrated around the world and make a craft, card, or ornament to take home with them.festival-of-holidays-hanukah-craftsEntertainment during Festival of Holidays
The daily lineup of entertainment includes nearly 50 performances of nine unique shows including: 2 special Disney characters, street parties, cavalcades, musical ensembles and dance performances. The celebrations include Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas/Navidad and Three Kings Day. Guests can look for performances of traditional Indian dance that builds to a Bollywood party, a Klezmer band with a new global sound, the Mariachi Divas and an a cappella vocal group that puts an R&B spin on holiday songs.viva-navidad-wreathThe popular Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is sure to wow you as it also returns as part of the fun at Festival of Holidays.disneyland-holidays-viva-navidadThere”ll also be a wonderful finale to celebrate Three Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes).The special festivities for Three Kings Day will run Jan. 5-8, 2017, including music and storytelling in Paradise Garden. Treats for this holiday will include traditional Rosca de Reyes bread.disneyland-holidays-balloonsMeet Elena of Avalorwelcome-elena-of-avalorSanta at Redwood Creek Trails 
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is where guests can go for Santa’s Holiday Visit. His joyful elves have transformed the trail into a magical playground of holiday fun and games, including opportunities for guests to join the ranks of Santa’s elves.meet-santa-guidedisneyland-holidays-redwood-creekWhen you enter the area, a Cast Member will give you a fun guide to help you find Santa and join in on some fun Elf Games.santas-elves“World of Color—Season of Light
All-new this holiday season is “World of Color—Season of Light”! This nighttime water spectacular that will inspire guests with cherished holiday music and treasured Disney animation. This fourth all-new production of “World of Color” creates a sparkling winter fantasy with magical storytelling, brilliant lights, lasers and high-definition projectors, along with fountains that shoot as high as 200 feet to create the giant screens of water. You’ll want to grab a FastPass for World of Color, first thing in the morning!Disney-Holidays-Buena-Vista-Street

must-dos-at-disneyland-park

Sleeping Beauty’s Castle and the Breathtaking Decor
There are so many holiday happenings this time of year in Disneyland Park too. The entire Park is decorated with fun, festive decorations and Sleeping Beauty’s Castle is dressed up for the Winter time.disneyland-holidays-castle-dayAt the top of Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll find twinkling lights, festive holiday garland and nearly 1,800 ornaments decorate the soaring Christmas tree in Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A.. It’s an ideal place for guests to begin their holiday traditions. The Christmas tree becomes an enchanting place for guests to take their holiday photos, up close or with all 60 feet of the shimmering tree.holidays-at-the-disneyland-resort-family-memoriesThe classic Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle brightens the park nightly with magical snowfall moments along Main Street, U.S.A., concluding with “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks and its stirring snowfall finale.disneyland-holidays-castle-nightSpecially Transformed-for-the-Holidays Attractions halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-haunted-mansion-holiday-signGuests at Disneyland Park can enjoy the one-of-a-kind transformations that create “it’s a small world” Holiday, Jingle Cruise and Haunted Mansion Holiday. Now celebrating its 20th holiday season, “it’s a small world” Holiday has added some “Hidden 20s” for guests to discover on their voyage.Disney-Holidays-Small-World-Facade“It’s a Christmas Fantasy” Parade
Celebrate the season in “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a daily procession during the Holidays complete with floats, music, marching “tin soldiers” and holiday cheer.disneyland-holidays-parade-mickey-and-minnieSanta, who makes a jolly appearance in the parade, also will be found welcoming guests at his special location in Critter Country while he visits Disneyland.Disney-Holidays-Santa-floatThere’s so much to see and do during Holidays at the Disneyland Resort and it’s a perfect time to create new family memories together! For more information, please visit http://www.disneyland.com.disneyland-holidays-carslandA very special thank you to Disneyland Resort for hosting our family for a festive day in the parks

 

 

 

The Magic of the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Starts on November 10

It’s the season for celebrations and the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort are about to begin on Nov. 10!  It’s the perfect opportunity for family and friends to make magical memories together at The Happiest Place on Earth! This year, guests will have even more to celebrate as they discover the new Festival of Holidays, with music, dance, food and heartwarming holiday festivities inspired by cultural traditions from around the world.Disney-Holidays-Small-World-FacadeAlso new for the season is the holiday-themed “World of Color—Season of Light,a nighttime water spectacular that will inspire guests with cherished holiday music and treasured Disney animation. This fourth all-new production of “World of Color” creates a sparkling winter fantasy with magical storytelling, brilliant lights, lasers and high-definition projectors, along with fountains that shoot as high as 200 feet to create the giant screens of water.
Princess Elena of Avalor will make her debut at the Disneyland Resort during Festival of Holidays, performing in a colorful cavalcade.Disney-Holidays-Christmas-Fantasy-MickeyHolidays at the Disneyland Resort is a time many guests celebrate as an annual tradition,
visiting the parks for Disney-themed treats, snowfall on Main Street U.S.A., the glistening décor and holiday entertainment. This year, Park guests will find Santa Claus in a fun, new location at Disney California Adventure Park, at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, Whenever Santa heads over to Disneyland Park, guests will be able to find him there in Critter Country  in a special location.Disney-Holidays-Haunted-Mansion-HolidayAt Disneyland Park will enjoy the one-of-a-kind transformations that create “it’s a small world” Holiday, Jingle Cruise and Haunted Mansion Holiday. Now celebrating its 20th holiday season, “it’s a small world” Holiday has added some “Hidden 20s” for guests to discover on their voyage.Disney-Holidays-Buena-Vista-StreetHoliday Highlights at Disney California Adventure Park

  • All-new Festival of Holidays – celebrate the holiday festivities of diverse cultures with music, dance and craft-making, plus food at the Festive Foods Marketplace. The daily lineup of entertainment includes nearly 50 performances of nine unique shows, with 2  special Disney characters, street parties, cavalcades, musical ensembles and dance performances. The celebrations include Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas/Navidad and Three Kings Day. Guests can look for performances of traditional Indian dance that builds to a Bollywood party, a Klezmer band with a new global sound, the Mariachi Divas and an a cappella vocal group that puts an R&B spin on holiday songs. Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-Santa
  • Princess Elena, the first Disney Princess inspired by diverse Latin American cultures -Princess Elena will make her Disneyland Resort debut as part of the Festival of Holidays. She will perform a song in “Princess Elena’s Musical Grand Arrival,” and she will appear at a character greeting location. Guests will recognize this brave and adventurous teenager from the Disney Channel series “Elena of Avalor.”
  • The popular Disney ¡Viva Navidad! also returns as part of the fun at Festival of
    Holidays, with a wonderful finale to celebrate Three Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes). The special festivities for Three Kings Day will run Jan. 5-8, 2017, including music and storytelling in Paradise Garden. Treats for this holiday will include traditional Rosca de Reyes bread.Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-Donald
  • “World of Color – Season of Light” brings the warmth and heartfelt spirit of the
    holidays to this stunning, nighttime water spectacular, with its 1,200 powerful fountains shooting water as high as 200 feet to help tell the story. The show’s musical soundtrack features some well-known musical artists performing popular holiday tunes, including “Let it Snow” by Dean Martin and “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Michael Buble and Idina Menzel. With classic holiday music, humor and memorable moments from Disney animated films, this becomes an ideal way for guests to conclude their holiday visit.
  • Jolly old St. Nick arrives at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail for Santa’s Holiday Visit. His joyful elves have transformed the trail into a magical playground of holiday fun and games, including opportunities for guests to join the ranks of Santa’s elves.
  • The residents of Cars Land decorate for the holidays, beginning with a whimsical
    “snowcar” that greets guests on the road to Radiator Springs. Each address along Route 66–from Flo’s V-8 Café to Luigi’s Casa della Tires–features holiday décor that reflects the personality of the “Cars” character who lives there.
  • “a bug’s land” transforms for the holidays, too, as Flik and his bug friends deck their land with oversized lights and ornaments.
  • A dazzling, 50-foot Christmas tree adorns Carthay Circle, drawing guests into the
    holiday magic along Buena Vista Street. The tree and surrounding buildings, inspired by Los Angeles as it appeared when Walt Disney arrived in the 1920s, create scenes of another era with vintage-style decor. disney-holidays-family-tree-photo

Holiday Highlights at Disneyland Park

  • Disney characters celebrate the season in “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a daily
    procession with floats, music, marching “tin soldiers” and holiday cheer. Santa, who makes a jolly appearance in the parade, also will be found welcoming guests at his special location in Critter Country while he visits Disneyland. Disney-Holidays-Santa-float
  • The classic Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle brightens the park nightly with magical snowfall moments along Main Street, U.S.A., concluding with “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks and its stirring snowfall finale.
  • Twinkling lights, festive holiday garland and nearly 1,800 ornaments decorate the
    soaring Christmas tree in Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A., an ideal place for guests to begin their holiday traditions. The Christmas tree becomes an enchanting place for guests to take their holiday photos, up close or with all 60 feet of the shimmering tree.
  • On Friday, Nov. 18, guests and cast members in Disneyland will celebrate the birthday of Mickey Mouse, applauding him as he appears in a special birthday cavalcade preceding “A Christmas Fantasy” parade.

Disneyland guests definitely will want to experience the popular seasonal transformations of the following park attractions:
“it’s a small world” becomes “it’s a small world” Holiday for the 20th time, celebrating children around the world and the distinctive holiday traditions of their nations. (The Holiday theme debuted in 1997.)Disney-Holidays-Peace-on-EarthHaunted Mansion becomes Haunted Mansion Holiday, with Jack Skellington
and his friends from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” causing a
collision between Christmas and Halloween. Disney-Holidays-Haunted-Mansion-Holiday-FacadeJungle Cruise is transformed into Jingle Cruise, as the jungle skippers gather
jettisoned holiday gifts and decorations to brighten the rugged landscapes
surrounding their riverboats.Disney-Holidays-Haunted-Mansion-HolidayMerriment in Downtown Disney
The Downtown Disney shopping, dining and entertainment district and the Hotels of the
Disneyland Resort join in the holiday festivities with twinkling lights and ornaments, holiday
displays, special entertainment and holiday dining with themed menus. One highlight is the
gingerbread house in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Designed to resemble the exterior of the hotel itself, the gingerbread house stands 7 feet six inches tall and 12 feet wide. Holiday snacks, cider and hot chocolate are sold from a window in the gingerbread house. holidays-at-disneyland-resort-family-pictureThere’s so much to see and do during Holidays at the Disneyland Resort and it’s a perfect time to create new family memories together! For more information, please visit http://www.disneyland.com.

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own. 

Registration Still Available for the 2016 CHOC Walk at Disneyland Resort

If you have ever participated in CHOC Walk at Disneyland Resort, you already how amazing it is. An experience that’s all for the kids! We’ve had the opportunity to participate in this annual event for a few years now and it’s something you don’t want to miss out on.chocwalk_logo


This year, the walk will take place on Sunday, October 30. Beginning at 6:15 a.m. on October 30, an estimated 14,000 walkers from across the U.S. and around the world, including Canada, Mexico, Australia and Japan will walk approximately 3 miles through the Disneyland Resort to celebrate the life-saving, compassionate care CHOC provides Southern California’s children. The event culminates in the resort’s Downtown Disney® District where sponsors, hospital support groups, shops and restaurants have special offers for participants at the CHOC Festival. It is CHOC Children’s largest fundraiser of the year. choc-walk-peter-panThe walk route is filled with Disney magic, including entertainment and the world-famous characters and gives you the opportunity to experience the magic of being in the Parks before they’re open to regular guests. theres-something-magicalAs the largest and most unique single fundraising pediatric walk event in the nation, last year’s walk raised more than $2.5 million dollars for the hospital’s KidsCare Fund bringing the quarter-century total to over $26 million. Now in its 26th year, the 2016 walk promises to be extra “spooktacular” as it occurs on Halloween weekend this year and will be packed with fun for the whole family! choc-walk-dca

how-can-you-help

This year’s CHOC Walk goal is to raise 2.7 million dollars. All monies raised provide funding to the programs and services in the greatest need both at the hospital and in the community, from mental health services to an expanded neonatal intensive care unit to care for children and families who cannot afford to pay. Every dollar counts for Southern California’s kids!choc-walk-halloween-timeWith your help, this goal can definitely by made and hopefully surpassed! There are a few different ways that YOU can help! First of all, you, yourself, can participate in the CHOC Walk. (Register here.) Also, grab your friends, your family, even grab some of your Instagram followers if possible, and join in! There are few things that can drag an adult out of bed this early on a weekend but I can guarantee that you’ll be beyond touched when you are surrounded by this crowd. I shed quite a few tears during the event. It’s beautiful to see all of the families participating, who have received amazing care over the years from CHOC Children’s Hospital. youll-be-touched choc-walk-ambassadors-luauCHOC Walk participants also have the opportunity to attend the 2nd annual CHOC Walk Ambassadors’ Luau, the afternoon before the walk, on Saturday, October 29 at at the Disneyland® Hotel’s Adventure Lawn. The luau is hosted by CHOC Walk Ambassadors, past and present, as a way to raise additional funds for the CHOC Walk in the Park and celebrate the courage and strength that they, and thousands of other CHOC patients and families, have shown during their medical journeys. dancers-at-the-2015-choc-walk-ambassadors-luauThis special Polynesian-themed event for the whole family will be the perfect way to celebrate the day before the CHOC Walk. The event will feature activities for attendees of all ages, including: special photographs with Disney® characters; tattoos by Kaman’s Art Shoppe; Ambassadors’ silent auction; delicious luau-inspired dinner; authentic Polynesian entertainment with special appearances by Tupua Productions, Loa Greyson, Jerome Grey, Halau Hula Lani Ola and “Auntie” and an exciting finale featuring world-famous Polynesian fire dancers! Guests will also enjoy a dash of Disney magic with a special visit from artist Jimmy Mulligan. This year’s master of ceremony will be KTLA’s Henry DiCarlo. To purchase tickets for the luau, visit hereluau-attendees-each-get-a-photo-with-a-disney-character

So, won’t you consider helping the kids of Southern California! Join in on the fun by registering for the 2016 CHOC Walk! For more information about the 2016 CHOC Walk and to register, visit http://www.chocwalk.org, Event information can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Join in on the conversation by following #chocwalk.

This is not a sponsored post. I am a huge supporter of CHOC Children’s and CHOC Walk and wanted to help spread the word to my readers. Some images and logo are property of CHOC Children’s. 

 

10 Things To Do During Halloween Time At Disneyland Resort

Halloween Time is in full swing at the Disneyland Resort! Although the weather in Southern California doesn’t feel like Fall right now, the decorations and festive ambiance in the Parks definitely feels like Halloween is here!  halloween-time-at-the-disneyland-resort-guide-mapToday I’m sharing 10 things you should check out while you’re at Disneyland Resort during Halloween Time!10-things-to-doSince the majority of the Halloween Time fun is inside Disneyland Park, that’s where we actually spent our day. You should definitely take a photo in front of the giant Mickey Mouse Pumpkin, which is located in Town Square.  halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-giant-mickey-pumpkinAs you skip down Main Street, you’ll see the Main Street Pumpkin Festival. where you’ll find so many adorable and unique, hand-carved jack-o-lanterns. They’re up on the rooftops, inside store windows, and hidden in places you’d never expect. You should definitely find the “Elvis” jack-o-lantern. It’s my favorite one this year!halloween-time-at-the-disneyland-resort-elvis-pumpkinAt the end of Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll find the Partners Statue, featuring Walt and Mickey Mouse. Right now, it’s so festive as it’s surrounded by jack-o-lanterns carved with characters in them. Each one is themed to represent a different “land”. I just love the one with Woody on it!halloween-time-at-the-disneyland-resort-tink-pumpkinhalloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-tarzan-pumpkinhalloween-time-at-the-disneyland-resort-pooh-pumpkinDuring Halloween Time, you can find several of the characters dressed in their spooktacular Halloween attire. Don’t forget to grab some pics with them and utilize the Resort’s PhotoPass services. The PhotoPass Photographers have ability to capture your magical memories perfectly and they make for great keepsakes of your trip.halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-ghost-galaxyI highly recommend grabbing a FASTPASS® early in the day for Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. It’s located in Tomorrowland and doing so will allow you to have at least one ride secured for the day on one of the most popular attractions.halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-fast-passOver in Frontierland, just next to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, you’ll find a special area set up as a tribute to “Dia de los Muertos“. Although this traditional festive celebration for the “Day of the Dead” isn’t something “Halloween” and is more of a celebration honoring those loved ones who have passed away, the Resort includes “Zocalo Park” in the Halloween Time features in Disneyland Park since it’s celebrated immediately after Halloween. The area is absolutely beautiful to visit. .  disney-halloween-time-zocalo-parkThe special area has a beautiful display of some cultural art, “calacas” or skeletons, authentic decor, and even face painting. (free of charge.) You can also enjoy special seasonal food offerings at Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante.disney-halloween-time-dia-de-los-muertos-3-calacasAnother extra popular attraction this time of year is Haunted Mansion Holiday featuring “A Nightmare Before Christmas”. It’s one of the specially transformed attractions during Halloween Time. (It actually stays up through Christmas as well for obvious reasons). halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-haunted-mansion-holiday-signThere’s an exciting addition this year, too. Sally! (Spoiler alert: You can find her in the graveyard scene inside.) I always enjoy seeing the gingerbread house and checking to see if my name is on the “naughty list” inside this spooky adventure.halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-haunted-mansion-holiday-facadehalloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-hmh-jackolanternThere are so many special Halloween Time treats and food offerings this time of year, that it would be impossible to try them all. Well, at least to try them all in just one visit.  disney-halloween-time-popcorn-snacksThe different collectable popcorn buckets that you’ll find at different locations throughout the Parks are one of the more popular keepsakes, as are the travel mugs.halloween-time-disneyland-resort-travel-mughalloween-time-disneyland-resort-mickey-bat-cookie The Jolly Holiday Bakery is a great place to find a bunch of different sweets, as are several other places at the Resort. For a complete list of Halloween Time food offerings, check out what the Disney Parks Blog says here.halloween-time-disneyland-resort-pumpkin-muffinI think the only thing we didn’t really get to conquer was a ride on  The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror over in Disney’s California Adventure. I’m dying to ride on it after dark because they offer “Late Check-Out”, an experience guests have never experienced before and a must-do before The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror approaches its final check-out date on January 2, 2017! Late Check-Out is a chance to venture beyond the fifth dimension into complete darkness! It entails free-falling in the attraction’s haunted elevator shaft with all the lights out! You should definitely try to experience this before it goes away forever! halloween-time-disneyland-resort-crystal-arcadeAll of the previous Halloween Time offerings can be experienced during regular park operating hours. The 10th thing I highly suggest you check out though is Mickey’s Halloween Party which is a separate ticketed event! It’s non-scary fun for the entire family! halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-jack-pumpkin

Have you had the chance to visit during this time of year yet? There’s just nothing like it. Well, I mean nothing except the Holidays at Disneyland Resort, but that’s coming soon!

 

 

 

 

Tower of Terror Receives a Final “Check-Out Date” + Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort

Did you know that Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort begins on September 9? We can’t wait!  As usual, there’ll be some new and exciting things this year in addition to the spooky favorites you see reappear from year after year. Family-friendly thrills, popular seasonal attractions and spooky decor make Halloween Time so magical. This year, the season runs from Friday, Sept. 9, through Monday, Oct. 31. with offerings such as the ever-so-popular Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy attractions, themed foods and merchandise, plus spirited decor that features a giant Mickey Mouse jack-‘o-lantern on Main Street, U.S.A.  giant-mickey-jack-o-lanternWhat’s New This Year for Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort?
This year, guests will have a special and unique opportunity to experience The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror, as “Late Check-Out”! What in the world is that? It’s something guests have never experienced before and a must-do before The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror approaches its final check-out date on January 2, 2017! Beginning Sept. 9, guests who arrive after twilight will enjoy “Late Check-Out” –a chance to venture beyond the fifth dimension into complete darkness! It entails free-falling in the attraction’s haunted elevator shaft with all the lights out! Do you dare?

Photo credit: Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland
Photo credit: Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror celebration, which begins on September 9, also includes special musical performances, commemorative merchandise and specialty food and beverage items. Performing at the Hollywood Tower Hotel are the Silver Lake Sisters, characters from the story of this famous hotel who once performed at its rooftop lounge. The sisters make their return to the Hollywood Hotel during Halloween season.

Also new  this year s the “Frightfully Fun Parade” at Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separate-ticket event on 17 nights during the Halloween season. The parade features some popular Disney villains and a procession of grim, grinning ghosts. Shortly afterward, the parade begins with greetings from Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Grim, grinning (and hitchhiking) ghosts follow along in the procession, joined by other spirits from the iconic Haunted Mansion attraction.
Inspired by Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog,” the creepy Dr. Facilier calls on mystical powers, summoning his Shadow Men from the bayou to loom large over his strange and twisted Voodoo parlor. Mischievous Disney villains appear out of the darkness, ready to stir up some trouble, and their wicked gathering includes the Evil Queen, Jafar and Cruella.

The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow also appears for the first time at Mickey’s Halloween Party. He brings a warning to guests, riding through the park on his ghostly black steed with a flickering jack-‘o-lantern.more-halloween-decorSpooky Halloween Traditions at Disneyland Park
Throughout the Halloween season, guests will find special treats and thrilling traditions. Haunted Mansion Holiday returns to celebrate the collision between Halloween and Christmas, and a familiar guest moves into the Mansion: Jack Skellington from the Walt Disney Pictures classic “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

HALLOWEEN TIME AT THE DISNEYLAND RESORT (ANAHEIM, Calif.) – Haunted Mansion Holiday brings the frightfully fun cheer of “Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas" to the Disneyland Resort. The friendly spooks of Halloween Time return in 2016 from Sept. 9 through Oct. 31 along with fun seasonal décor, themed food and beverage offerings and attractions that get a special seasonal overlay for Halloween Time. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland)
Photo credit Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland

Jack Skellington brings a unique spark to the season and, for the first time, his friend Sally joins him in the Mansion graveyard. The annual Haunted Mansion Holiday gingerbread house is back with a new theme. This year’s version appears to have been stitched together from pieces of other gingerbread houses and treats. In fact, the ghoulish architect has stitched himself inside the house, and one green arm still may be spotted, sewing the walls together around him.

Photo credit Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland
Photo credit Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland

Another Halloween favorite is Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, which is a Halloween-themed reimagining of the popular thrill ride in Tomorrowland, at Disneyland. Guests on board the speeding Space Mountain vehicles are thrust into a ghostly galaxy where they are bombarded with eerie screams, sound effects and music. Spine-chilling spirits pop out of the darkness, appearing to reach out to menace the space travelers.
The traditional Mexican celebration,“Dia de los Muertos,” is observed with a skeleton display in Frontierland, near Rancho del Zocalo restaurant.

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS (ANAHEIM, Calif.) – A colorful display at Disneyland park honors Dia de los Muertos with cheerful skeletons, sugar skulls and marigolds during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, from Sept. 9 through Oct. 31 2016. The Halloween season features seasonal entertainment and décor, in addition to the return of Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. This year, the family-friendly Mickey’s Halloween Party will be held on 17 nights at Disneyland Park, where guests are invited to trick-or-treat in costume, celebrate with favorite Disney characters and enjoy the “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort)
Photo Credit: Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort

As a special, after-dark treat during the Halloween season, guests visiting Disneyland on select nights will enjoy the“Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks spectacular.

Photo credit Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland
Photo credit Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland

During the day, the dynamic“Mickey’s Soundsational Parade” marches down Main Street, U.S.A., throughout Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort. mickey-trick-or-treat-decorMickey’s Halloween Party
As I mentioned above, Mickey’s Halloween Party guests is a separate ticket event. Guests are invited to visit in costume and trick-or-treat throughout Disneyland for candy and healthy snacks. An extra special treat is the “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, presented exclusively for guests of Mickey’s Halloween Party and hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington. For more information about the event, read my post here.

Have you visited the Parks before at Halloween Time? What was your favorite part?

This is not a sponsored post. Some images are property of Disneyland Resort. All opinions are 100% my own. 

 

 

 

Disney Social Media Moms Celebration “On the Road” at Disneyland Resort!

One of the best ways to end Summer is with some pixie dust in your inbox, inviting you to attend Disney’s Social Media Moms Celebration “On the Road”. I just happened to be out doing to some back to school shopping when the invitation arrived and I’m pretty sure I let out the world’s loudest squeal inside of Nordstrom! Disney-social-media-moms-celebration-inviteThis “On the Road” event was brought to the Disneyland Resort and held at Paradise Pier Hotel, which is one of the on-property hotels.disney-social-media-moms-paradise-pier-hoteldisney-social-media-moms-paradise-pier-sign

disney-social-media-moms-sign-outsideThe day of the event, everything began bright and early. Upon check-in, I received the most adorable bag filled with tons of Disney’s 60th Diamond Celebration merchandise. The tables in the ballroom were also set with a pair of light up ears and a “Paintbrush” for each attendee. disney-social-media-moms-mickey-artWhen I walked into the ballroom, I was wow-ed by the tables which were all glowing with EARs and “Paintbrushes” at every place setting! I couldn’t wait to use them in the Parks, especially during the “Paint The Night” parade. The centerpieces were adorable too, with the Disney Moms logo. Can you spot anything “hidden”? disney-social-media-moms-tables

disney-social-media-moms-centerpieceI enjoyed a delicious breakfast and had the chance to connect with a bunch of other social influencers. It was fun to make some new friends too. I just love to network!disney-social-media-moms-breakfast

disney-social-media-moms-making-connectionsAfter making the rounds to take photos with many of my lovely influencer mom friends, we sat at the tables, anxious to see which special guests we’d be hearing from.disney-social-media-moms-leanne

Leanne Jakubowski O’Regan, Director of Content Relations for Disney Parks, kicked off the festivities and got everyone very excited about what was to come. In my opinion, she has one of the best jobs in the world AND has the best boss!

Our first speaker was Michele Himmelberg, Public Relations Director at The Disneyland Resort. She had a lot to share with us about what’s new at Disney Parks. Michele recently spent an extended amount of time opening Shanghai Disney and basically explained that the feeling of stepping into a Disney Park, no matter which one it is, is universal around the world. disney-social-media-moms-whats-new-at-disney-parksEach of the Disney Parks has so many new things to see and do. Here are just some of the recent additions to Disney Parks:

  • Tree of LIfe Awakening at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
  • Frozen at the Hyperion Theater at Disney Callifornia Adventure
  • Soarin’ Around the World at Disney California Adventure and Epcot
  • Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World. This new neighborhood has been completely revamped and includes a ton of restaurants and shops.
  • Elena of Avalor is the first Latin-inspired princess and an elegant warrior. She can be found inside the Magic Kingdom

It’s always an exciting time at a Disney Park because there’s almost always something new in store for guests, just right around the corner.  disney-social-media-moms-whats-new-at-disney-parks2Next, we heard from Erin Glover, Editorial Content Director for the Disneyland Resort. Erin is one of my most favorite people to follow on social media, specifically on the Disney Parks Blog channels. My most favorite video that she ever did was her interview with Harold the Abomindable Snowman inside Matterhorn. If you’ve never watched it, here it is! (It’s SO funny!) 

Erin talked to us about The Disney Parks Blog and what it takes to organize the blog, plan the edoritial calendar and everything else that goes into making this 5 year old site a success around the world. disney-social-media-moms-erin-gloverdisney-social-media-moms-walts-tipsThe next portion of the program was something top secret! You know they mean business when they bring in security and you’re told to turn off any and all electronic devices. I don’t know that I’ve ever been involved in something so important!  What a treat! Amy Smeed was there to share some behind-the-scenes footage and facts about the upcoming feature film “MOANAfrom Walt Disney Animation Studios!

Amy Smeed. Photo by Alex Kang. ©2016 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
Amy Smeed. Photo by Alex Kang. ©2016 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Amy is the first female co-head animator on a feature film at Walt Disney Animation Studios. You can actually feel her passion about her work when she speaks. I can’t really say much about what we learned or what we saw but I can remind you that “Moana” is due to set sail in theaters on November 23, just in time for Thanksgiving, so go see it! disneys-moana-posterSince everyone in attendance works in social media and/or PR, learning about video and making the most of video on your mobile device was super useful for us. Our next speaker was Victoria Lim, Managing Editor of Content at Walt Disney World. She is so much fun and I’d have to say that I love the fact she isn’t shy about being right up there on the screen while on-camera. disney-social-media-moms-victoria-lim-on-cameraMany social influencers already use a lot of video to share their content but there are also others who need help getting started. Victoria literally walked us step-by-step, through some of her favorite apps to make videos including Magisto and Videolicious. disney-social-media-moms-victoria-lim-video-appsWhen I heard Leanne introduce the next guest as someone who had starred in both “Saved By the Bell” and “Beverly Hills 90210”, my teenage self got ready to “fangirl”. Out on the stage walked Tiffani Thiessen. She seemed just as excited to be at Disneyland as we all were and shared with us about how her daughter loves visiting the Parks a lot more now that she’s getting older.disney-social-media-moms-tiffani-thiessen Tiffani shared about her latest ventures which include her own cooking show, “Dinner at Tiffani’s” and publishing her own blog, in addition to being a mom and a wife. She seemed as busy as all of us are, juggling it all. She also shared that she does all of her own recipes and cooking for her show, as well as all of her own photography and writing for the blog. She said that she also runs the social media herself. I appreciated her efforts to stay authentic and connect with fans and readers.  I love how real she was when she said:

I don’t succeed every day but I try. I try to balance it all but it doesn’t always happen.

disney-social-media-moms-ginger-zeeThe final speaker of the morning, Ginger Zee,  who is also a “working mom” trying to balance it all. Ginger is the Chief Meteorologist for ABC News and Good Morning America. She also recently starred on “Dancing With the Stars” just 7 weeks after having her 2nd child. She is a strong, confident woman who admitted to knowing that you have to give up on perfection. (even though just looking at her and hearing her speak you’d swear she is perfect) Ginger spoke about giving up on perfection, balancing it all, and learning to focus your time. She said it best when she spoke about “living in the moment” and focusing on what’s in front of you. I also admire her statement about being able to do it all and have a child. I sometimes think there are people in this world who think that mothers can’t do it all. disney-social-media-moms-you-canIt was such a magical morning of learning, It was a chance to be inspired. It was also an opportunity to connect with others like me. I think most of all, attending Disney Social Media Moms Celebration was an opportunity to take some time for me and to be able to do something that makes me happy….which always involves Disney! It was such an honor to be invited! disney-social-media-moms-mickey

I was invited as a guest of Disney Parks to attend this conference. I was also provided with admission  to enter the Parks afterwards. All opinions are 100% my own. Some images and graphics are property of Disney. 

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas at Disneyland Resort!

It's a Small World at Christmas timeIt’s only November 2nd and Christmas is popping up already, all around Disneyland Resort with a heavy emphasis over in Toontown! Yep! I really couldn’t be happier about it, either!

firehouse in ToontownWe ventured into Toontown this morning to ride Gadget’s Go Coaster and I immediately noticed the decorations on the firehouse! As I looked around, I could see that there were beautiful garlands hanging on the boughs of the buildings and houses in Toontown!

city hall 1

I loved the patriotic decorations hanging on Toontown City Hall. I was lucky enough to catch Pluto peeking out of the door when I was standing there! He gave me a big hug and then stopped to take a selfie with me before continuing on his way!

city hall

selfie with Pluto

I think my most favorite parts in Toontown were the decorations on Mickey and Minnie’s houses! They’re so lucky that they each get their own Christmas tree in their front yard!

Mickey's houseMickey’s house is all ready for the holidays! 

Minnie's House 2How adorable is Minnie’s house? The CM told us that Minnie was up late last night working on that heart-shaped wreath!

Disneyland Resort is most definitely “My Happy Place” but with Christmas decorations slowly appearing all around the parks, it Just Got Happier! I can’t wait to go back soon and see it when everything is decorated for Christmas!

Do YOU have a favorite part about Christmas time at Disneyland Resort?