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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. 

 

No Tricks, Just Treats and Family Fun at Knott’s Spooky Farm!

The month of October is literally the start of my favorite time of year….Halloween Season! I can’t think of a better way to spend some family time than by visiting Knott’s Spooky Farm to check out their non-spooky, kid-friendly Halloween offerings. The weather couldn’t be more perfect and the decorations throughout the park, have me feeling all festive!knotts-spooky-farm-logo

knotts-spooky-farm-cauldronThis year, Knott’s Spooky Farm is a limited-time weekend event perfect for families and is open on weekend days during October, as well as Halloween day. All of the fun included in the price of a regular park ticket. (pumpkin and cookie decorating are available for a nominal fee.) Whether they choose to wear a costume or not, guests visiting the park are welcome to join in on all the fun Halloween activities. knotts-spooky-farm-photoHere are the fun experiences you won’t want to miss out on this year:

Ghost Town Treat Stops 
As kids enter the Park, they receive an orange bag for trick or treating. As you proceed down Main Street in Ghost Town, kids have the opportunity to stop at a variety of locations, mingle with the friendly ghosts, and trick or treat. It’s also fun to ring the doorbell of the whimsically themed doors at each location. Don’t forget to say “hi” the to witch also! Costumes for children are allowed but not required.knotts-camp-spooky-friendly-ghostknotts-camp-spooky-friendly-witchLinus’ Great Pumpkin Patch
Did you know that this year is the 50th anniversary of the animated classic Peanuts, It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown!? I remember watching this as a little girl.knotts-spooky-farm-50-years This year at Knott’s Spooky Farm, you’ll find Linus and Sally in Ghost Town with special Halloween themed activities inside Craft Barn.knotts-spooky-farm-coloring There are some fun activities to do inside like Peanuts coloring, games, decorating your very own pumpkin head,( for a nominal fee), and photo opportunities with Linus! You can also sit and watch the classic Peanuts special. It’s all very nostalgic. knotts-spooky-farm-paint-a-pumpkinknotts-spooky-farm-linus

Dia De Los Muertos 
This year, over to Fiesta Village, Knott’s has created some vibrant, non-scary fun with a Dia de los Muertos educational celebration of the season. Enjoy browsing through traditional shops with cultural creations for sale. For a nominal fee, you can also decorate a Sugar Skull cookie. Don’t miss this new for 2016 offering! knotts-spooky-farm-dia-de-los-muertosknotts-spooky-farm-calaverasPeanuts Dance Party and Pumpkin Patch Costume Contest
In the Camp Snoopy Theatre, there’s a ton of Halloween fun going on with the Peanuts Gang! The Peanuts gang host a spooktacular costume contest every day at 3:45 pm.  Families are invited to bring their festively costumed children for some Halloween fun! After the contest, you can also join the Peanuts characters for a Peanuts Dance Party!knotts-camp-spooky-theater-timesknotts-spooky-farm-theaterAlso, don’t forget to catch a performance of “Monsters Are Coming Charlie Brown!” in the Camp “Spooky” Theater, while you’re in Camp Snoopy. Guests of all ages can sing and dance in the aisles, along with the Peanuts characters to classic Halloween tunes.

Spooky Hallow Maze 
Even the littlest explorers in your family will enjoy the Spooky Hallow Maze in Camp Snoopy. Experience an enchanting adventure through a spooky forest with larger-than-life jack-o-lanternsknotts-spooky-farm-maze-photoWhile you’re at Knott’s for your day of fun, consider making the most of your visit by adding on the All-Day Dining plan. Guests with an All Day Dining plan receive a wrist band at any of the participating locations and enjoy one entrée and one side dish as often as every 90 minutes! knotts-camp-spooky-all-day-diningFor only $31.99 (plus tax) you can enjoy up to seven different dining locations throughout Knott’s Berry Farm. (Drinks are not included with the plan) To learn more about the All-Day Dining plan, go here. knotts-spooky-farm-pose-with-witchDon’t miss out on all the daytime family friendly fun at Knott’s Spooky Farm this year! You won’t find any tricks, just treats!

Connect with Knott’s on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
You can join in on the conversation by following #KnottsSpookyFarm.

 

My family and I were provided with media tickets to Knott’s in order to write this review. All opinions are 100% my own. Logo is property of Knott’s and Cedar Fair.

 

 

 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer Exhibit at Discovery Cube Orange County

Have you been to the Discovery Cube Orange County lately? They just opened a brand new exhibit, which is actually the first-ever museum exhibit featuring Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!tmnt-characteresNow through January 16, when you visit the Discovery Cube, these four heroic ninjas-in-training will show you how to leap to the rescue and learn teamwork, collaboration, and problem-solving as you work your way through puzzles, mazes and obstacles. Guests can explore the turtles’ sewer-like lair, where good guys win and bad guys lose!tmnt3Since 1984, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have rocked it with their talent and teamwork, inspiring and teaching generations of fans that being part of team lets us discover and exercise our own hidden strengths and those of our teammates. Together we can achieve more than we can on our own. tmnt6 Now you can join the pizza-eating, crime-fighting “Heroes in a Half Shell” to hone your own ninja skills and problem solving intellect while learning the secrets of the sewer!tmnt5The exhibit includes:

The Dojo and Splinter’s Room
In order to create a seamless ninja fighting team, Master Splinter has devoted many hours to training the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. In the Dojo, Splinter and Raphael show visitors the value of hard work, practice and knowing your enemy.tmnt-climbingThe Common Room
Families are encouraged to explore the Turtles’ Lair, discover facts about these teenage crime-fighters and hone their individual skills.tmnt-which-turtle-are-youDonatello’s Workshop and Lab
Donnie is the inventor of the group; his lab is the place to try your hand at creative problem solving, as well as learning from mistakes. tmnt1tmnt4New York City Streets
Put your skills and training to the test in the streets of NYC. Try working together to stop the villain Shredder and his foot clan! tmnt-in-the-alleyFor more information about the Discovery Cube Orange County, go here. Connect with Discovery Cube OC on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

 

This is not a sponsored post. We were invited to attend a media preview in order to write this post. Some images are property of the Discovery Cube. All opinions are 100% my own.

 

 

 

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!

 

 

 

 

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Start on November 10!

The Disneyland Resort is a magical place to make special memories with family and friends no matter what time of year you visit. However, one of my most favorite times to visit is during the holidays. With the Resort in full swing for Halloween Time right now, that means the Holidays are just around the corner. This year, Holidays at Disneyland Resort will begin on November 10 and run through January 8, 2017. We visited last year and our family cannot wait to return! holidays-at-the-disneyland-resort-family-memoriesAlong with some of the beloved Holiday traditions you’ll find at the Resort, such as snowfall on Main Street U.S.A., the beautiful decor throughout the Parks, and Disney-themed holiday treats and entertainment, guests are in for a treat with some new surprises in store. There’s just nothing like visiting during “the most wonderful time of the year“! Disney-Holidays-BalloonHoliday Offerings At Disneyland Park
Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle returns for the first time since 2014, with magical
nighttime snowfall moments that conclude with “Believe … in Holiday Magic
fireworks and its stirring snowfall finale.
Guests will be enchanted by the soaring Christmas tree in Town Square, Main Street,
U.S.A. It’s 60 feet tall and filled with nearly 1,800 ornaments. This festive backdrop is a
popular location for holiday photos.Disney-Holidays-Santa-floatDisney 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. Disney-Holidays-minnie-ears-hatDisneyland guests definitely will want to experience the popular seasonal
transformations of these park attractions:Disney-Holidays-Small-Worldit’s a small world” becomes “it’s a small world” Holiday with children around
the world enjoying the distinctive holiday traditions of their countries. Disney-Holidays-Haunted-Mansion-Holiday-FacadeHaunted 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-HolidayJungle 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-Buena-Vista-StreetHoliday Offerings At Disney California Adventure Park
The all-new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color – Season of Light” celebrates the
warm and heartfelt spirit of the holidays, with powerful water fountains telling the story.
World of Color – Season of Light” will take guests through a sparkling winter fantasy,
combining classic holiday songs with memorable moments from treasured Disney
animated films to create an experience filled with magic. Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-DonaldThe new “Festival of Holidays” celebrates time-honored traditions and heartwarming
experiences inspired by holiday festivals around the world. Guests at the “Festival of
Holidays” will enjoy delicious internationally inspired food and beverages at 14 themed
festival marketplaces, and participate in diverse cultural holiday celebrations, including
the popular Disney ¡Viva Navidad! The global sounds of special guest musical groups
will ring throughout the festival, and the young and young-at-heart will celebrate with
some of their favorite Disney characters. Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-DonaldPrincess Elena, from the Disney Channel series “Elena of Avalor,” will make her
Disneyland Resort debut as part of the “Festival of Holidays.” She is the first Disney
Princess inspired by diverse Latin American cultures. After Holidays at the Disneyland
Resort conclude Jan. 8, Princess Elena will remain at Disney California Adventure to
continue visiting with guests. Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-SantaThree Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes) returns as the finale of “Disney ¡Viva Navidad!” in
the “Festival of Holidays.” The special four-day celebration of Three Kings Day will run
Jan. 5-8, 2016, in Paradise Garden. Treats for this holiday will include traditional Rosca
de Reyes bread.

New location for Santa This Year
Santa Claus, with a sleigh full of mischievous elves, appears at Redwood Creek
Challenge Trail, where guests of all ages will join the festive fun with a series of holiday-themed activities along the trail.carsland-tire-decorThe residents of Cars Land also decorate for the holidays, beginning with a whimsical
“snowcar” that greets guests on the road to Radiator Springs. Each address along Route
66–Flo’s V-8 Café, Fillmore’s, Cozy Cone Motel, Luigi’s Casa della Tires and more–
features holiday décor that reflects the personality of the “Cars” character who lives
there. carsland-tree-1a bug’s land” transforms for the holidays, too, as Flik and his bug friends deck their
land with over-sized lights and ornaments.carsland-christmas

A dazzling, 50-foot Christmas tree adorns Carthay Circle along Buena Vista Street.
The tree and surrounding buildings, inspired by Los Angeles as it appeared when Walt
Disney arrived in the 1920s, are decorated with vintage-style ornaments.Disney-Holidays-Buena-Vista-StreetThe Downtown Disney shopping, dining and entertainment district and the Hotels of the
Disneyland Resort also join in the holiday festivities with twinkling lights and ornaments, holiday displays, special entertainment and holiday dining with themed menus.Disney-Holidays-Mickey-AppleWhat are you most excited for during the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort? Have you had the chance to experience this magical season yet?

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

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. 

The Main Street Electrical Parade is Returning To Disneyland!

I was elated to find out some magical news last night on the Disney Parks Twitter….thetweet

Did you see? They announced that the Main Street Electrical Parade, currently residing at Walt Disney World, will have it’s final run (for now) at the Magic Kingdom on October 9th before it hits the road for California! This is the best news for Guests of the Disneyland Resort, although I do feel sad for anyone who will be missing this parade when it leaves Walt Disney World. The Main Street Electrical Parade, actually had a run as Disney’s Electrical Parade” at Disney California Adventure park from 2001 to 2010, but it hasn’t been in Disneyland park in 20 years, so we’re ecstatic! According to the Disney Parks Blog, the Main Street Electrical Parade will be at Disneyland as a limited-time encore engagement, at the beginning of 2017. tinkerbellCurrently, I just feel like Christmas came early! After it was just last week that the “Paint the Night” parade would be going dark at the end of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, this news about the Main Street Electrical Parade is so exciting. However, on the Disney Parks Blog they also announced that the “Paint the Night” parade will actually return on select nights during the holiday season later this year! Yay!

To keep up on the latest updates, you can visit the Disneyland our eye on Disneyland Resort’s Entertainment Calendar here.

This is not a sponsored post, I just like writing about Disney a lot! All opinions are 100% my own. Main Street Electrical Parade image property of Walt Disney Company.  

 

LEGOLAND® California’s New Mobile App and FREE Resort Wifi

Have you heard the latest news to come out of the LEGOLAND® California Resort? Your visit to the Park just got easier because you can access their new and improved Mobile App, which offers step by step navigation. It’s the ultimate adventure tool. legoland-app-step-by-step-navigationPark guests can enjoy the convenience of the App in the Park by connecting to the FREE Resort wifi. This will definitely help with your phone roaming and draining the battery so quickly. Having in-park wifi is so much more efficient.

The LEGOLAND Mobile App Features include: 

  • Wait times for rides
  • An Interactive map that makes exploring easy
  • Daily entertainment guide so you don’t miss any of the fun
  • Ride information, including height guide
  • Park hours and directions
  • Helpful in-Park tips
  • Exclusive dining and retail offers
  • Car Finder marks where you parked

 

legoland-mobile-appYou can download the app for free and it’s compatible with iOS and Andriod devices. Your visit to the LEGOLAND California Resort will be easier when you have control in the palm of your hand! When is your next trip?

Connect with LEGOLAND® California Resort on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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