Over The Top Mommy

Disneyland Resort

All-new ‘Magic Happens’ Parade to Debut at Disneyland Resort 2/28 with Magical Moments from Beloved Disney and Pixar Stories

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

Disneyland Resort will debut its all-new “Magic Happens” parade at Disneyland Park on Feb. 28, 2020. The incredible “Magic Happens” daytime spectacular celebrates the awe-inspiring moments of magic that are at the heart of so many Disney stories! This new parade, led by Mickey Mouse and his pals, celebrates moments of magic from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films as they are brought to life on a grand scale with stunning floats, artistic costumes and a surprising and energetic musical score combined with beloved Disney tunes.

“When you come to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, there are so many ways to
immerse yourself in our stories, but a parade is a unique experience because it’s the only way
for you, as the audience, to stay in one place and have so many stories, characters and magical
moments pass right in front of you. We’ve designed the ‘Magic Happens’ floats so that characters, scenes and surprises are revealed a little at a time, making each float a journey of discovery” – David Duffy, creative director for Disney Live Entertainment

“Magic Happens” includes something for everyone and will be enjoyed by guests of all ages.
This new parade features nine newly designed floats, highlighting magic from classic Walt
Disney Animation Studios tales such as “The Sword in the Stone,” “Cinderella” and “Sleeping
Beauty,” to more recent stories including “Frozen 2,” “Moana” and “The Princess and the Frog,”
as well as Disney and Pixar’s “Coco.” The new floats were created as pieces of moving art, with
their lines and aesthetic design working to tell a story along the parade route, while also evoking
a sense of magic.

In addition to the stunning floats, the parade route along Main Street, U.S.A., will be filled with
dynamic performers and more than two dozen Disney and Pixar characters. The parade’s
costume design draws inspiration directly from modern runways, making each costume look
fashion-forward, yet uniquely Disney. Many performers and characters in “Magic Happens” will
don all-new costumes, specifically made for this parade.
Watch this sneak peek of “Magic Happens”:

While the music and stories seen in “Magic Happens” are rooted in iconic Disney lore, the
soundtrack and choreography are heavily influenced by today’s pop culture designers, putting a
contemporary spin on the classic Disney hits. “Magic Happens” features an energetic musical
score and new songs, co-composed by singer-songwriter, Todrick Hall. “Magic Happens” is a whimsical and joyous procession that allows the Disney magic to shine through. The parade features distinct stories with a mix of characters, making it feel contemporary and classic, fun and regal, and surprising and familiar – all at the same time.
Highlights of the all-new “Magic Happens” parade include:

  • Mickey Mouse leads the way, gliding along on glistening swirls of magic emanating from
    a giant, iridescent magical hat. Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n
    Dale join in, dancing along with a group of eclectic and artsy performers representing
    stylized aspects of magic.
  • On her voyager canoe, Moana journeys forth on the crest of a towering wave, inspired
    by beautiful koa wood carvings, and inset with dazzling, animated glimpses into the
    magic the ocean holds. This is the first full-scale “Moana”-inspired float to be created for
    a Disney park.
  • Joining Moana on her journey is Maui, who travels along on his own magical piece of the
    islands with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua. Maui makes his official Disneyland Resort
    debut in “Magic Happens.”
  • Miguel appears in person for the first time, celebrating the magic that happens when he
    strums the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Disney and Pixar film “Coco.” This
    spectacular float connects the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead with a vibrant
    marigold bridge, and fantastical alebrije spirit animals join the procession, along with
    Miguel’s dog Danté. This is the first time the film “Coco” has inspired a float for a Disney
    Parks parade.
  • From “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa explore the mysteries of the Enchanted Forest
    protected by the Nokk, the mystical water spirit, as their friends Kristoff, Sven and Olaf
    tag along.

The regal grand finale of “Magic Happens” celebrates magical moments from several
classic Disney stories. The start of the finale brings together a collection of many iconic
magical characters, including Genie, Aladdin, Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, Blue Fairy,
Pinocchio and Fairy Godmother. These characters lead the way as more floats are
introduced, each highlighting the moments of magic that changed the characters’ lives.

  • From “Cinderella,” guests watch the moment of “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo” as
    Cinderella is seen inside a grand pumpkin, just as it magically transforms into a
    glistening carriage to whisk her off to the ball.
  • From “The Sword in the Stone,” Merlin wisely leads the way for young Arthur,
    who finds the magic within himself as he pulls the sword from the stone, claiming
    his place upon the throne.
  • Tiana and Naveen from “The Princess and the Frog” are seen amidst a swirl of
    golden flowers where they share a kiss, completing their transformation back into
    human forms.
  • The happily-ever-after scene from “Sleeping Beauty” features the three good
    fairies and Princess Aurora, whose gown shimmers between hues of pink and
    blue.

Spring is a great time to visit the Disneyland Resort and experience the new “Magic Happens” parade, as the resort is offering special, limited-time ticket and hotel offers. Kids everywhere* along with Southern California residents** may visit the theme parks for as low as $67 per person, per day with 3-day, 1-park per day tickets through May 21, 2020, which you can read more about HERE.Are you as excited as I am about the debut of the all-new “Magic Happens” parade  at Disneyland Resort? Tell me about your plans to visit and experience it.

Some images and video are property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Disneyland Resort Announces Limited-Time Ticket Offers for Kids Everywhere and SoCal Residents

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

It’s back! Once again, for a limited time, Southern California residents can visit the Disneyland Resort theme parks for $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket. (Park Hopper options also are available.) The tickets are available for purchase Jan. 7 through May 18, 2020.

Eligible guests may purchase up to five tickets per person, per day, and prices are the same for adults and children. This special ticket also includes one Magic Morning, which gives admission to select attractions on select days at Disneyland park one hour before the park opens to the general public. Southern California residents may redeem their tickets on any three separate days through May 21, 2020. These special tickets may be purchased HERE or through a travel agent.

Special Ticket Offer for Kids Everywhere
For families visiting from outside of Southern California, there’s a special value for kids. For a limited time, guests can save on Disneyland Resort park tickets for children ages 3 to 9 for $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket. Park Hopper options also are available. The tickets are available for purchase Jan. 7 through May 18, 2020. Guests may purchase up to eight tickets per person, per day. This special ticket also includes one Magic Morning, which gives admission into select attractions on select days at Disneyland park one hour before the park opens to the general public. This three-day ticket expires 13 days after first use or on May 21, 2020, whichever occurs first. Purchase these special tickets may be purchased HERE or through a travel agent. Do YOU have a visit planned soon to the Disneyland Resort? If not, why not plan one around these great offers?

*Characters image property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

What’s New at The Disneyland Resort in 2019?

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

It was a great end to 2018 for me as I got to spend the morning with my daughter at Disneyland for a few hours and later on at home we got to watch Disney Parks Blog’s live stream of New Year’s Eve fireworks from Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World! Disney Parks Blog also released their first digital wallpaper of the year and it’s adorable! You can download yours for either mobile or desktop HERE

Now that 2019 is off to a magical start, it’s time to take a peek at what’s going to be new this year at The Disneyland Resort! I feel like a kid in a candy store awaiting the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in summer. Meanwhile, the first few months look to be jam packed already with tons of exciting offerings! Starting in January and continuing throughout 2019, the Disneyland Resort will offer a collection of adventures, festivals, shows, food, Disney character interactions and more to inspire guests to join the fun with family and friends.Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie Celebration
2019 will kick off in true Disney fashion with Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie
Celebration, a party to celebrate Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at the place where they first appeared for guests. Adored for generations, Mickey and Minnie Mouse have brought joy and inspiration to millions of fans around the world. Join in and toast their 90-year legacy with a magical, musical celebration featuring entertainment, Character Greetings, themed menu selections, merchandise and more.

Mickey’s Mix Magic – beginning January 18
Guests can light up the night with Mickey’s Mix Magic, a new, high-energy projection show celebrating the one and only Mickey Mouse. Held at Disneyland Park, this family-friendly event features the theme song, “It’s a Good Time” as well as dance-tastic takes on some of your favorite Disney hits and a virtual visit from none other than “DJ” Mickey, of course!

Watch state-of-the-art projections, lighting and lasers transform various parts of the park—Main Street, U.S.A., the water screens on Rivers of America and the façade of “it’s a small world”—into dazzling displays of sight, sound and color.

Mickey’s Soundsational Parade – beginning January 25
Mouseketeers and Guests alike will fall head over heels for the returning fan favorite, Mickey’s Soundsational Parade, a beloved park classic that’s back to mark one of the most exciting milestones in Disney history—Mickey’s 90th. The parade features popular Disney peeps, whimsical floats, music and lots of larger-than-life surprises. During a rockin’ new opening, Mickey leads the way with a giant celebration cake accompanied by Chip ‘n’ Dale! Celebrate Valentine’s Month with Mickey and Minnie – Jan. 22 through Feb. 18,
Join Disneyland Resort to celebrate the love of Minnie and Mickey for Valentine’s month. Guests will find a new Mickey Mouse flower “portrait,” and lovely and festive Valentine’s décor all along Main Street, U.S.A. Guests may also choose to partake in Minnie’s Valentine Surprise, a special scavenger hunt experience in Disneyland park. After purchasing a commemorative map and stickers at select merchandise locations, they may search for the hidden valentines that Minnie has left for Mickey around the park. Upon completion, maps can be returned to a designated location to redeem a special Valentine’s surprise.* Lunar New Year Celebration –  Jan. 25 through Feb. 17
Disneyland Resort will, once again, celebrate Lunar New Year and the Year of the Pig inside Disney California Adventure Park.  A joyous celebration of Asian cultures, the Lunar New Year celebration welcomes guests of all ages to commemorate the tradition with beloved Disney characters, and welcome another year of good fortune. Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, a limited-time offering during the Lunar New Year celebration, is a bright and bold parade hosted by Mulan and her faithful dragon, Mushu. As a special treat for the Year of the Pig, the Three Little Pigs will join the procession. Delicious Asian food and kid-friendly crafts and activities will be available as well.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival – March 1 through April 23, 2019
Discover a cornucopia of culinary fun—from Festival Marketplaces and tastings to inspirational cooking demonstrations. Whether you’re a foodie, aspiring home chef, wine enthusiast or just looking to glean a few cutting-edge techniques, the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival delivers something for palates of all ages year after year.
will offer tasty treats and special entertainment for guests of all ages to enjoy. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for the latest updates on this year’s Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival. Coming later in 2019
As I mentioned before, summer 2019, is going to be all about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park! For the first time ever, guests will be able to live their own Star Wars adventure at the highly anticipated new land, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The opening will make Disney history as the largest single-land expansion ever at the Disneyland Resort. In this epic, new land, guests will live their own adventure in a galaxy far, far away and explore Black Spire Outpost. Once a busy crossroads, this spaceport on the planet Batuu is now home to those who prefer to stay out of the mainstream, including smugglers, rogue traders and exotic creatures traveling between the frontier and uncharted space.Guests will take the controls in one of three unique and critical roles aboard Millennium
Falcon: Smugglers Run. On Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, guests can join a battle
between the First Order and the Resistance – including a face-off with Kylo Ren. These two new incredible experiences, paired with the land’s interactive components and optional integration with the Play Disney Parks app, will invite guests to become galactic travelers and live their own Star Wars adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.As you can see, there’s a lot that’s about to happen in this new year at the Disneyland Resort! What are you most excited for in 2019? Share with me in the comments!

Some images and logos are property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

World of Disney Reopens in Grand Style at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort

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

Whether you’re at the Disneyland Resort in California, or Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, World of Disney is the ultimate shopping destination for all things Disney. Now both of these two dynamic retail experiences are unveiling complete transformations that make shopping easier and more fun, with a dash of pixie dust on top for good measure!

After more than than a year in design and development, World of Disney reopened today, Friday, Oct. 26, at the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort. Tomorrow,  Saturday, Oct. 27, World of Disney at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World will officially reopen.This grand World of Disney makeover touched every feature and function in the store, as if the Fairy Godmother outfitted the store herself. From displays to signage to lighting and much, much more, the new World of Disney creates an exciting, dynamic shopping experience where the products are the stars and guests discover magical Disney storytelling wherever they look.

“We saw World of Disney as an opportunity to reimagine what Disney retail is today. “The new store design highlights the best of what is current and new, while also celebrating classic Disney heritage based in storytelling.”” – Alysia Kelley, vice president of visual merchandising and location strategy for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

The major transformation includes with the store’s exterior, featuring new marquees and magical window displays. When guests step inside, they discover an open, loft-style atmosphere with such great visibility they may even fall in love with an item from across the room. The merchandise also serves as décor in the new World of Disney. In one area, a giant Mickey Mouse Club ear hat beckons guests to the new Mickey Mouse Club Collection. Several spaces throughout the store will change regularly, showcasing the newest and hottest Disney offerings of the season. When new displays debut, their stunning impact will leave guests feeling as if an entire section of the store was reimagined all over again.Complementing these displays are enchanted flourishes inspired by the history of the Walt
Disney Animation Studios and the “Nine Old Men,” the legendary animators who created classic films such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Peter Pan” and “Fantasia.” For instance, ink jars suddenly swirl with color and animate artwork on the walls. Out of nowhere, blank pages fill with pencil sketches as if drawn by an invisible hand. Magical movie posters twinkle with pixie dust before coming to life.When making purchases, eagle-eyed guests may notice the store’s sales counters are inspired by the desks and furniture used by animators of generations past.The new World of Disney is more than a retail experience – it’s truly a Disney experience.
World of Disney will regularly roll out exclusive Disney Parks merchandise, reinforcing its
reputation as a must-visit shopping destination for devoted Disney fans. Unveiled earlier in October was a new Mickey Mouse Club Collection with apparel and accessories featuring a vintage Mickey Mouse from the original television show. Also revealed with the store’s grand reopening is the Nordic-inspired Disney Parks Holiday Collection 2018, complete with Disney-themed holiday décor, ornaments, apparel and more.World of Disney stores at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World now offer guests the option to purchase new reusable bags, rather than use plastic bags. This program is part of The Walt Disney Company’s global commitment toward significant single-use plastic reduction by mid-2019. Featuring artwork of beloved Disney characters, these reusable bags are offered in three sizes for a nominal fee. Traditional plastic bags are still available upon request at no charge.

World of Disney is an anchor location at both Downtown Disney District (Disneyland.com) and Disney Springs (DisneySprings.com). Theme park admission is not required. Select products may also be found at ShopDisney.com.

Store image property of Disney and used with permission. 

Helpful Tips for Navigating Through Security at Disneyland® Resort

If you’ve been to the Disneyland® Resort lately you may (or may not) have noticed the increase in security prior to entering the Parks. I’ve always felt safe during my visits, but I really appreciate the added efforts which include more thorough screening procedures for guests. Yes, it now takes a little longer to get inside, but isn’t that what we really want for ourselves and for our families? remember-youre-at-the-happiest-place-on-earthAs you approach the security area, it can be a little congested at times. It’s always important to remember…you’re at The Happiest Place on Earth! Nowadays, these extra security measures are necessary. I’m actually glad that Disneyland Resort has done this. heres-what-you-can-expect

Let’s talk about what you can expect, as far as security goes when you visit the Disneyland Resort. First of all, you’ll see signs telling you about items that are completely prohibited, which you should avoid carrying with you to avoid confiscation. no-selfie-sticks-disneyland-resortYou should know that any bags will be checked, as well as strollers and wheelchairs. place-your-items-disneyland-resortOnce you get through the initial bag screening area, you’ll be going through a metal detector, similar to the ones at the airport. You’ll be asked to unload your pockets and place your belongings in a tray before walking through the machines. It seems that they’re currently doing this for all guests. metal-detectors-disneyland-resortThere are things you can do to help speed up the security process for yourself and others around you. As someone who’s been through the lines recently, on a few different “busy days”, I am speaking from experience here. (These are just some of my own tips.) being-prepared-helpsFirst, prior to entering the bag check area, be prepared by already by having your backpack, satchel, and/or purse open for the Cast Members to search. This really helps to keep the line flowing. No one wants to wait extra time while you are asked to remove your bag and open it when you could already be ready. dont-bring-items-that-are-prohibitedSecond, avoid carrying items on the prohibited list. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve seen with “selfie sticks”. They’re on the prohibited list and have been for a while. I’ve even seen this on the news. I’ve also seen guests try to negotiate to be able to bring theirs in with them still. Just don’t! keep-calm-and-disney-onThird, have some extra patience when you’re in line. Sadly, I’ve also witnessed other guests acting in a grumpy manner and complaining to everyone around them. Did you know that positivity is contagious? why-not-thank-a-cast-memberFinally, consider actually thanking a Cast Member as you pass through these security areas. Thank them for working to keep you extra safe. Trust me, it’ll make their day!

For more information about Disneyland Resort, click here.

This is not a sponsored post, I just like Disneyland Resort a lot! All opinions are 100% my own. 

 

‘Frozen – Live at the Hyperion,’ Set to Open at Disney California Adventure Park on May 27, 2016

Exciting Disney news today….“Frozen – Live at the Hyperion”, a new musical based on Disney’s animated blockbuster film “Frozen”, will open at the Hyperion Theater at Disney California Adventure Park on May 27, 2016. Audiences will be immersed in the emotional journey of Anna and Elsa with all of the excitement of live theater, in an entertaining musical adaptation that includes elaborate costumes and sets, stunning special effects, show-stopping production numbers and unique theatrical surprises.

‘FROZEN – LIVE AT THE HYPERION’ – “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion,” a new musical based on the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Frozen,” will open at the Hyperion Theater at Disney California Adventure Park on May 27, 2016. The new musical at the Disneyland Resort will immerse audiences in the emotional journey of Anna and Elsa in an entertaining musical adaptation that includes elaborate costumes and sets, special effects, new technologies, show-stopping production numbers and unique theatrical surprises. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort)
photo credit: Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort

Disney Creative Entertainment, the arm of Walt Disney Imagineering responsible for live theatrical entertainment at Disney Parks, is producing “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion” with all of the creativity and resources of its predecessor “Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” which ran for a remarkable 13 years, with a total of 14,000 performances to 13 million park guests at the Hyperion Theater. The 1,873-seat Hyperion is equipped with a backstage facility to support a production of the kind that plays in any venue of that size in the world, as well as the full creativity of Walt Disney Imagineering.

“We know that for many in the audience — adults and children alike – this production will be a first or rare theatergoing experience. We undertake this responsibility with seriousness as we adapt the film to the stage.”

The new musical is based on the Walt Disney Animation Studios’ film “Frozen,” which is the No. 1 animated feature of all time and among the most critically acclaimed animated films. It is the winner of two Academy Awards (2014), for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. It features music and lyrics by the creators of the film score, Kristen Anderson-Lopez (“In Transit,” “Up Here”) and Robert Lopez (“Avenue Q,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Up Here”), and is adapted from the screenplay by four-time Tony® nominee Chad Beguelin (“Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” at Hyperion Theater; Broadway: “Gotta Dance,” “Aladdin,” “The Wedding Singer,” “Elf”). And as would be expected from Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney Parks, new technologies – especially with projections, fabrics and special effects – will delight audiences in new and unique ways.

Who’s even more excited to visit the Disneyland Resort now? I can’t wait until May 27th! Will you be there?

Celebrate the Magical Holiday Season at the Disneyland Resort!

If you haven’t visited the Disneyland Resort during the holiday season yet, it’s something I highly recommend because it’s even more magical than ever and there is so much happening this time of year. disney-holidays-ticket-to-a-magical-dayA visit to the Disneyland Resort during the holiday season, especially during Disney’s Diamond Celebration, will make you feel like a kid in a candy store. You’re bound to make a ton of new family memories together on your visit, which you’ll cherish forever!disney-holidays-kid-in-a-candy-storeI’m excited to share a few of my personal favorites and must-dos with you, in hopes that it will help make the most of your day at “The Merriest Place on Earth“! There’s actually a ton to see and do and if possible, I suggest a 2-day visit at minimum so you can fit it all in.

Take a Family Tree Photo 

Whether you choose to visit Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park first, prepare to be in constant awe….not only by the glamorous decorations adorning both of the parks, but also the larger-than-life Christmas tree that stands in each one. There’s also a tree standing tall in Downtown Disney and inside each of the hotels. disney-holiday-family-tree-photo A Disney Christmas Tree is the perfect holiday backdrop for photos and you’ll find the friendly Disney PhotoPass Photographers standing by to snap your pictures, using their professional equipment. PhotoPass pictures are easily accessed online afterwards and available for purchase. Disney-Holidays-Buena-Vista-Street

*Tip: Take advantage of Disney PhotoPass services available in both parks. The high quality photographs would look beautiful on your holiday cards and in your family’s memory album. 
Check out the Festive Attractions

During the holiday season, a few attractions get extra special holiday makeovers and are all dressed up for the holidays. You’ll definitely want to make it onto all of these out during your trip to the parks. Disney-Holidays-Haunted-Mansion-Holiday

  • Haunted Mansion Holiday – the Haunted Mansion is transformed during the holidays with jack o’ lanterns and wreaths, terrifying toys and kooky characters from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before ChristmasDisney-Holidays-Haunted-Mansion-Holiday-Facade
  • “it’s a small world” Holiday – Take an enchanting cruise around the world and experience how the holidays are celebrated internationally! Disney-Holidays-Small-WorldBoth the inside and outside of this attraction are adorned with some of the most beautiful decorations you’ll see and there are colorful twinkle lights around! Be prepared to sing along in all of the different languages. Disney-Holidays-Peace-on-Earth
  • Jingle Cruise – Take an extra jolly cruise through the jungle with The Jungle Cruise skippers and see how they, along with the native tribes, celebrate this time of year.

*Tip: Try grabbing your first Fast Pass for one of these popular festive attractions, first thing in the day.

Indulge in some extra special holiday treats Disney-Holidays-TreatsDuring the holiday season at Disneyland Resort, you’ll find some extra special treats in both parks. I can never get enough popcorn or Mickey pretzels, but this time of year, there are also many other treats to sample during holiday time. Disney-Holidays-Mickey-AppleMickey apples are a popular choice as are chocolate and peppermint-covered Tigger Tails. Why not try a few different treats? They’re even perfect for sharing. Disney-Holidays-Holiday-Time-Treats

*Tip: If you have someone in your party with special dietary needs, be sure to stop by City Hall and request a list of eateries that offer choices for special dietary needs. 

Holiday Entertainment Schedule 

Disneyland Resort has an extensive year-round schedule of entertainment which includes some special holiday additions to the schedule that you won’t want to miss. Disney-Holidays-Christmas-Fantasy-float

  • “A Christmas Fantasy” parade (Disneyland Park) – Guests can catch Mickey, Minnie, and an entire parade of all their favorite Disney characters, dancing and singing and celebrating the season, from the top of Main Street, U.S.A. to ‘It’s a Small World”. Don’t forget to wave to Santa and tell him what you’re wishing for this year. Disney-Holidays-Christmas-Fantasy-Mickey
  •  Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party (Disney California Adventure Park) – This vibrant street celebration will give you a taste of some Latino holiday traditions and features festive music, dancing, and storytelling. Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-DonaldDonald and his friends Panchito and Jose sing and dance up on their float while Folklorico dancers, mariachi and samba musicians and get the party going on the street. Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-MojigangaThere are also 12-feet tall mojiganga puppets, including 2 of Santa and Mrs. Claus that join in the celebration too! Disney-Holidays-Viva-Navidad-SantaBe prepared to sing and dance along as you join in on some of the Latino holiday celebrations of la Navidad!
  • Disneyland Forever Fireworks (Disneyland Park) – Fireworks are a favorite of park guests of all ages. There are several great viewing spots throughout Disneyland Park but the fireworks can actually be seen across the Resort.

*Tip: Plan out which entertainment you’d like to fit into your day’s schedule right when you arrive at the Resort. There are sometimes advanced dining and dessert packages available for some features. Stop by Guest Services to obtain more  information. 

Get Festive with Holiday Merchandise

Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs to commemorate your trip or need to grab some holiday gifts to put under the tree, there’s so much festive holiday merchandise available throughout the parks. Some of the most popular items this year include:

  • Character Plush – You’ll find plush characters of all sizes, wearing their special holiday attire. It’s often difficult to choose just one, which is why we end up purchasing several. Disney-Holidays-Character-Plush
  • Holiday Balloons – A Disney holiday balloon is guaranteed to bring a smile to any child’s face. Disney-Holidays-Balloon
  • Holiday “Ears” and hats – There are special holiday hats and festive pairs of EARS to purchase in shops and carts throughout the Resort. Disney-Holidays-minnie-ears-hat
  • Holiday Glow Necklaces – These are so much fun to wear, especially at night! Disney-Holidays-holiday-glow-necklace

Keep Your Eye Out For Santa! Disney-Holidays-Santa-float

There are multiple opportunities at the Resort to see Santa. He’s easy to spot in “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade. You can also find him in the parks to take photos with. It’s hard to think about the holidays without thinking about “The Big Guy”, isn’t it?

Consider Purchasing a Disney Annual Pass for Yourself or Someone Else

One of the most Magical gifts anyone could receive is a Disney Annual Passport. Visits to the parks, discounts on food and merchandise and other benefits are just some of the reasons to purchase one. During your visit to the Resort, you’ll have the opportunity to apply the cost of your Park ticket towards the purchase of an Annual Passport. Click here for more information about Disney Annual Passports. Disney-Holidays-Small-World-FacadeHave YOU had the opportunity to visit Disneyland Resort during the holidays? If so, what’s your favorite thing to see or do? Leave a comment below and share with me! Happy Holidays! Disney-Holidays-Happy-Holidays

Disclosure: My family and I were invited to Holiday Family Media day at Disneyland Resort and were provided with park tickets. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own. 

Have YOU Hung Out With Farley the Fiddler at Disneyland Yet?

Farley-the-fiddler-stickersHave you gotten to hang out with Farley yet at Disneyland? Although I don’t consider myself a total Disney expert, I do think that if you are a big lover of Disneyland, there are certain names that should ring a bell, like “Farley“!  If you haven’t heard of him, he’s also know as “Farley the Fiddler“! I’d seen Farley perform several times before on the porches over in Frontierland, near The Golden Horseshoe but had never talked to him. (He was always busy singing) However, I did get to hang out with him during Disney’s Rock Your Disney Side 24-hour event.

fiddlingAs I sat in a rocking chair relaxing inside of Miss Chris’ Cabin while Emi was coloring,  in walked Farley! That’s when I learned that his stomping grounds had been moved over there to the Big Thunder Ranch area.  He was so much fun! He sang, he fiddled, and he told jokes…LOTS of jokes! The kids LOVED him. (OK the moms did too) He even let Emi try to play his fiddle. She definitely needs some more lessons. It was a fun way to break up a long day in the parks and get away from the crowds.

knock-knockWe recently ran into Farley again on another Disneyland trip. This time Emi was with her friend Gabby. Farley seemed to have some new jokes this time! The girls were loving it! I swear the girls could’ve easily spent a couple hours hanging out with him that afternoon. (Hmm, maybe we should’ve left him in charge and gone shopping for a while?)

cheese-with-FarleyFarley shared a little bit of Disneyland history with us during our chat. When you get to hear things from actual cast members who have been part of the magic for so long, it’s really a priceless experience.

Hidden MickeyCan you spot the Hidden Mickey?

He had us step outside the cabin, pointed out the giant mound of old horseshoes out there, and encouraged us to look for the Hidden Mickey in the pile. I don’t own one of those Hidden Mickey books because I like to be surprised when I learn about a new Hidden Mickey. I feel like it’s more special that way. Now I’m just excited I know about ANOTHER Hidden Mickey!

selfie with FarleyFarley is really a fun guy to hang out with! The kids loved him, he was totally on board to take a selfie with me, and the guy tells great knock knock jokes! Oh, and don’t let me forget one more important part…he gives out stickers! No wonder he’s such a hit! I think he’s one of Disneyland’s hidden gems!

hanging-with-farleyHave YOU gotten to meet Farley the Fiddler yet? He has his own Facebook page, so go check him out!

 

 

 

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?