Archive for the ‘WDW Dining’ Category
Tuesday, March 17th, 2009
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 17, 2009) — Chef Cat Cora and Disney are joining together to open an exciting new family dining restaurant at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. Kouzzina by Cat Cora will feature a menu of Mediterranean-style cuisine that pays tribute to the chef’s Greek roots.
The restaurant, to be owned and operated by Disney, is scheduled to open by fall 2009 in the space currently occupied by Spoodles.
“I am pleased to welcome Cat Cora and her engaging new concept for Kouzzina to the Walt Disney World Resort,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “This collaboration between Cat and Disney represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to offer unique culinary experiences and choices for our guests.”
As a Mississippi native born to a family of Greek restaurateurs, Cora grew up immersed in two different and flavorful cultures , and has taken from that unique background the kitchen “know-how” handed down through generations. The cuisine at Kouzzina (Greek for “kitchen” and pronounced “koo-zee-nah”) will showcase Mediterranean cuisine and Chef Cora’s philosophy to create simple yet sensational meals.
Cora said that the new restaurant will feature “time-honored recipes passed down from my ancestors, as well as my favorite Greek and Mediterranean dishes that my family loves.”
She began working with Disney in 2008 by creating a Disney Video on Demand series to showcase ways to help families develop more healthy eating habits. “I’m extremely excited about this latest extension of my relationship with Disney,” she said. “Together, we’re going to develop a truly amazing contemporary Mediterranean restaurant.”
The first and only female Iron Chef on Food Network’s hit show “Iron Chef America,” Cora is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York. She also is Executive Chef for Bon Appétit magazine. In addition to hosting the instructional cooking demonstrations for Disney Video on Demand, Cora has been a featured chef at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and at Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival at Disneyland Resort.
Posted in WDW Dining, Walt Disney World | No Comments »
Tuesday, March 3rd, 2009
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – From May through August 2009, summer simmers with exciting new attractions and events at Walt Disney World Resort. The smash TV hit “American Idol” inspires a new attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios while, at Magic Kingdom, a Liberty Square icon reopens its doors and street parties turn up the spirit as Disney’s “What Will You Celebrate?” hits full-stride. Treehouse lodging is back, resort guests now can save some time by checking in online before they arrive, Stars Wars Weekends let guests release their inner Jedi, and Downtown Disney unwraps new fun – on the ground and in the air…
Summer Fun at The American Idol Experience
While guests are usually the ones to enjoy the attractions and shows at Walt Disney World Resort, “The American Idol Experience” places Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests in the spotlight, immersing them in the thrill of auditioning and performing or voting on their favorite musical performances.
Modeled after the famous “American Idol” television show, the newly opened Walt Disney World attraction makes dreams come true by showcasing the talents of park guests age 14 and older who have aced the auditions (audition slots are limited and interested guests are encouraged to arrive early).
Like the television show, fans – not the onstage judges – have the final say on who is deemed the best of the best. With seating to accommodate 1,000 audience members, the high-tech theater is wired so guests can vote for their favorite singer.
What Will You Celebrate? Adds Gifting Option, Park Fun
During “What Will You Celebrate?” inviting Disney Parks guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences, ways for guests to customize and personalize a visit are endless.
With everything from fireworks cruises, street parties and behind-the-scenes tours to specialty cakes and in-room decorations to choose from, guests who have decided their answer to “What Will You Celebrate?” have more choices as they ponder, “How will I celebrate?” The fun is nonstop, too, with a party spirit stamping the new “Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!” street party in the Magic Kingdom. Floats, a cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers and more “move it” down Main Street, Come True parade, a tweaked send-up of the former Dreams Come True parade with changes to some of the floats and soundtracks and the grand marshal in the lead role. Singers and dancers as before invite guests lining the parade route to come join in the celebration.
With all there is to do in Disney parks, guests can tailor a celebration with favorite attractions, favorite characters and special experiences. Thanks to new Web planning tools, learning about available choices and then customizing a “celebration vacation” itinerary – or “gifting” a celebrating family member or friend with a personalized Disney experience – is easier than ever. Through www.disneyparks.com, guests (or their travel agents) choose the celebration destination – Disneyland Resort in California or Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. With a click, they access an interactive online celebration “planner” to shop the many experiences that are a cornerstone of a “celebration vacation” at Disney Parks – experiences that transform guests into the stars of their own party whether the occasion is a birthday, anniversary, Quinceanera, personal triumph or any celebration.
Now there is also a way to participate in a guest’s upcoming celebration visit when you can’t be there: by “gifting.” The giver reviews the possibilities using the online planner, then calls a Disney Dream Maker to personalize and customize the gift. At Walt Disney World Resort, Dream Makers can be reached at 407/WDW-GIFT.
Star Wars Weekends Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Once again, the power of the Force and the magic of Disney combine in May and June for Star Wars Weekends, a sci-fi fan-fest inspired by the popular film saga.
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 22-June 14, 2009, Disney’s Hollywood Studios becomes the temporary home for a band of out-of-this-world characters, including Wookiees, Sith, droids, Jedi, Ewoks, bounty hunters and Rodians. Dates are May 22-24, May 29-31, June 5-7 and June 12-14.
A giant, “A to Z” gathering of Star Wars characters – from Anakin Skywalker to Zam Wesell – will roam the streets of the theme park during meet-and-greet sessions. Jedi Training Academy – one of the interactive entertainment experiences featured in the theme park – takes place throughout the day on the event’s main stage and allows young guests to learn from a Jedi Master before testing newly acquired skills in a battle with Darth Vader.
Also featured: the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind Star Wars memorabilia, Star Wars trivia contests, special Star Wars parades, rides on the famed Star Tours attraction, and autograph sessions and star conversations with famous Star Wars actors and creative geniuses.
Event activities are included in theme park admission. For more information, guests may go online to www.starwars.com or www.disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends.
Hall of Presidents to Reopen in July
A July reopening is planned for the Hall of Presidents, an iconic attraction in Magic Kingdom. An Audio-Animatronics version of President Barack Obama will join representations of the previous 43 presidents of the United States as part of an attraction that has been celebrating American history since Walt Disney World Resort opened in 1971. Disney Imagineers are also updating a broad array of show elements.
Whole New World of Lodging Greets Summer Guests
New home-like accommodations presented by Disney Vacation Club are debuting in time for summer guests. New options will combine to revive “treehouse living” at Walt Disney World Resort and immerse guests in the African experience.
Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – Treehouse living, a cherished Disney World tradition from 1975-2002, returns with the opening (scheduled for summer) of 60 three-bedroom villas elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest glens where they are nestled, providing Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa with a new room category.
Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Fresh from the conversion of select rooms at Jambo House (at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge) into vacation villas, Kidani Village is taking shape (for phased openings scheduled in the spring and fall) with thatched roofs and hewn timber design. Kidani means “necklace,” and the building is shaped like a piece of native African jewelry with villas forming the beads, garden-like walkways creating the knots in between and the lobby representing the ornament or jewel at its center. With the spring opening comes Sanaa, a new family dining location, featuring savanna views and serving familiar foods from tandoor ovens and slow-cooked specialties with flavorful spices of Africa.
Walt Disney World Resort Debuts Online Check-In Service
Walt Disney World Resort has launched Online Check-In Service, designed to simplify and streamline guest arrivals. The new service is complimentary and available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Disney Vacation Club resorts.
Within 10 days of their arrival dates, guests are able to provide check-in information, advise the resort of their arrival times and request room preferences (although those cannot be guaranteed). Guests can also register the names of all the people in their party and provide a credit card to cover charges at the resort hotel.
Upon arrival at their resorts, guests visit a special welcome location where their room keys and other registration material are waiting. Disney Cast Members are also available to provide additional information and answer questions.
Meeting professionals can also arrange private group check-in at a Disney resort convention center or other locations.
For more information about the new Online Check-In Service or to make a resort reservation, call 407-W-DISNEY or your travel agent or click on disneyworld.com.
New and Aloft at Downtown Disney: Aerophile!
Imagine an eagle’s-eye view of the Downtown Disney area, with sweeping, 10-mile panoramas of Lake Buena Vista and environs. Downtown Disney greets summer guests with a new iconic attraction in the form of a giant tethered balloon – Aerophile — that will take guests 300 feet into the air from the waterfront. The 72-foot-diameter balloon can lift up to 30 guests at a time on a six-minute ‘’flight,’’ by day or night. Aerophile made a spring debut at Downtown Disney’s West Side. It joins other newcomers at Downtown Disney for summer:
- TrenD, a hip new Downtown Disney Marketplace boutique with urban-inspired fashions.
- Disney Design-a-Tee, presented by Hanes, inviting Marketplace guests to personalize the popular souvenir to their own tastes.
- T-Rex : A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover – a fun prehistoric environment millions of years in the making.
- Downtown Disney restaurant from E-Brands, Paradiso 37, a restaurant from E-Brands featuring a selection of menu offerings representing the 37 countries of the Americas.
‘’Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’’ Dance Party Debuts
He’s the Guru of Gross-Out, the Maker of Mischief. Now, everybody’s favorite galactic pal stars in ‘’Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration,’’ a high-energy, retro-futuristic music video dance party in Magic Kingdom. The fun features Stitch, an interactive dance troupe and a DJ celebration host who invites all Tomorrowland guests to come party, dance and celebrate.
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Saturday, December 20th, 2008
In This Edition:
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: “American Idol” phenomenon coming to life at Studios; Plans for ESPN The Weekend available online.
Disney’s Wide World of Sports: Brazilian running for sixth Disney Marathon win; Experts in running, fitness, nutrition share tips, perspectives during free seminars; Atlanta Braves spring training tickets go on sale in January, workouts begin in February; Disney’s Endurance Series introduces two running events.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy: 100 high school students to be treated to a look at interesting careers Feb. 12-15.
Walt Disney World Resort: New 16-parent Moms Panel to answer vacation questions in online forum during 2009.
Disney Cruise Line: Kids sail free on 3-night Disney Wonder sailings this spring.
Disney Resorts: Quick eats go high tech at new Disney’s Contemporary Resort cafe.
‘American Idol’ is “Going to Disney World!”
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney Parks and Resorts will create an “American Idol” attraction that will bring the television and pop culture phenomenon to life at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, according to Jay Rasulo, chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts; Simon Fuller, CEO of 19 Entertainment; and Keith Hindle, executive vice president of FremantleMedia Licensing.
“The American Idol Experience,” slated to debut January 2009, will be located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park and will follow the model of the high-energy show. Disney guests will be able to experience the challenge of auditioning, the rush of performing on stage in competition, or the thrill of judging the performances in a live interactive entertainment setting with all the glitz and glamour of the distinctive “American Idol” set.
That experience will include an audition process, open to all eligible to register, where guests perform “live” in front of a Disney’s Hollywood Studios producer for the chance to be cast in a theme park show. If shown to have that star quality during the screening process and after backstage preparation – working with a vocal coach, hair and make-up – it’s lights up and showtime for the lucky guest in front of a “live” audience and a panel of judges.
Guest performers with the highest votes will compete in an end-of-day Grand Finale show at Walt Disney World Resort, and the winner of the Grand Finale show will receive a guaranteed reservation for a future regional stadium audition – to ensure no waiting in long lines – for the “American Idol” TV show.
Disney Marathon Weekend Features Free Seminars
With Fitness & Nutrition Experts, Running Coaches, Former Olympians
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Fitness and nutrition experts, running coaches and former Olympians will share tips and perspectives – and answer questions from the audience – during the 2009 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Seminar Series Jan. 8-10 at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. More than two dozen topical sessions, typically ranging in duration from 30 to 45 minutes, will be offered without charge over the three days.
Thursday seminars start between 12:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., with Disney Marathon Race Director Jon Hughes wrapping up the day with an hour-long session covering tips and information about this year’s running events. Some highlights of the opening day include a presentation by former 10,000- and 20,000-meter world record holder and Mexico Olympian Arturo Barrios (2:45 p.m.) and sessions focusing on youth – Healthy Kids Challenge Chef presented by Cigna (3:45 p.m.) and Making it Fun for the Kids featuring world-class coach Kevin Hanson and 10-year-old daughter Samantha (4:30 p.m.).
Friday’s schedule kicks off at 11 a.m. with a discussion of ChiRunning and ChiWalking, revolutionary forms of moving that blend T’ai Chi with running and walking, presented by creator Danny Dreyer. Hughes wraps up the schedule with a session beginning at 4:45 p.m.
On Saturday, 1972 Olympian Jeff Galloway opens the schedule at 11 a.m. with a session focusing on tips to run a personal best, with Hughes, joined by Boston Marathon Race Director Dave McGillivray, wrapping up the series at 3:15 p.m.
More than 550 Brazilians Following 5-Time Champion Adriano Bastos
Into Field of 45,000 Participants for Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Five-time champion Adriano Bastos will lead a contingent of more than 550 Brazilians into 2009 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna Jan. 8-11. By winning the run through the four Disney theme parks the last four years consecutively and five times since 2003, the
30-year-old Sao Paulo runner has stirred interest throughout his country in the weekend of running and fitness events at the central Florida Vacation Kingdom.
More than 300 Brazilians join Bastos in a field of some 21,500 participants registered for the full
(26.2-mile) Disney Marathon on Sunday, Jan. 11. Another group of 250 Brazilians is among the approximately 17,000 runners set for the Disney Half Marathon on Saturday, Jan. 10. Both of those races begin near Epcot at 5:45 a.m.
In all, more than 45,000 people from all 50 U.S. states and more than 60 countries are registered for everything from the famous Diaper Dash for crawlers (12 months and under) to the new Mickey’s Mile (ages 13-under) to the distance road-running events.
Within the huge field of participants will be the most frequently honored athlete in the 16-year history of the Walt Disney World Marathon. Saul Mendoza, a wheelchair racer who was honored as Mexico’s Athlete of the Century for the 20th century, will be vying for a 10th Disney championship. Two athletes new to the Disney Marathon winner’s circle in 2008 also return: Women’s winner Melanie Peters of St. Petersburg, Fla., and women’s wheelchair winner Jacqui Kapinowski of Point Pleasant, N.J.
Disney Marathon weekend begins at noon Jan. 8 with the opening of Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo, a three-day event at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. More information about Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna is available at disneysports.com. The program is available at http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/disney/wdwmarathon09/.
Updated Information About 2009 Edition of ESPN The Weekend
Available Online at www.ESPNTheWeekend.com
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Sports fans who want to leap into planning for the sixth edition of ESPN The Weekend presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods – Feb. 27-March 1, 2009, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios –can visit ESPNTheWeekend.com for the latest information about the upcoming event. The weekend will feature a lineup of athletes and top ESPN personalities such as Mike & Mike as Disney’s Hollywood Studios hosts a full slate of live telecasts including “NFL Live” and “Baseball Tonight.” There also will be unique sports experiences such as the Interactive Zone. All the fun is included with regular theme park admission.
While Diverse in Their Challenges and Accomplishments, 100 Students
Bring Common Trait to Disney’s Dreamers Academy: The Power to Dream
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – They come from America’s West, Midwest, South and Northeast. And their stories are at least as far-flung and diverse. There are honor roll students among them … another proud of completing 10th grade despite being homeless. An oration contest winner … and one who is speech and language impaired. One who dreams of playing professional football … another who won a dirt bike event despite being a paraplegic.
“They” are the 100 high school students selected to participate in the Disney’s Dreamers Academy of 2009, which takes place Feb. 12-15, during national Black History Month. In partnership with nationally syndicated radio personality Steve Harvey, Walt Disney World Resort will host the selected students for an innovative career inspiration program that includes interactive workshops, motivational talks, hands-on creative experiences and fun.
The “Steve Harvey Morning Show” conducted the Dreamer’s Contest to identify the participants – high school students who show promise but may need additional motivational support to excel. Parents, teachers, school administrators, church groups and even the students themselves nominated more than 4,000 aspiring dreamers from across the nation for the program. The 100 participants were selected by a panel that included educators, communications professionals and business professionals.
All of the selected students share a trait: the power to DREAM. And Disney’s Dreamers Academy aims to expose them to creative and nontraditional career opportunities in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports, while inspiring them to exceed the boundaries of their dreams and imaginations.
During Disney’s Dreamers Academy, Disney cast members, executives and celebrities will share their blueprints for success. Participants will also explore Disney’s theme parks and then end their special weekend with a graduation ceremony where a special guest will deliver a motivational address.
“With the nation’s attention on change and a spirit of renewed hope, we are very pleased with the excitement centered on this year’s Disney’s Dreamers Academy and the overwhelming enthusiasm it has generated from young people spanning America,” said Xiomara Wiley, a vice president of marketing at Disney Destinations. “We want to educate and open doors for our young dreamers by helping them to realize the power within and inspiring them to discover their dreams and follow them wherever they lead.”
[EDITORS/WRITERS: A complete list of participants is available at wdwnews.com.
Single-Game Tickets for Expanded Braves Spring Training Slate
At Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex on Sale Jan. 10
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Individual-game tickets for the Atlanta Braves’ expanded home spring training schedule at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex go on sale Jan. 10 for an 18-game slate that includes a number of marquee opponents and premier opportunities.
The schedule includes World Baseball Classic Exhibition games featuring Panama (March 3) and Venezuela (March 5), a pair of contests against the Yankees (March 4 and 28) and Mets (March 17 and 21), two visits by the World Champion Philadelphia Phillies (March 1 and 8), and the second visit ever to Champion Stadium by the Boston Red Sox (March 30). Atlanta’s 18 games at Champion Stadium mark the highest number of single spring home contests for the Braves since the franchise moved to Disney in 1997.
Individual game tickets are availablethrough Ticketmaster (online at ticketmaster.com or by calling 407/839-3900) and at the Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex box office. Prices range from $15 (general admission lawn seats) to $28 (lower reserved); please add $4 per ticket for Premium Games (Yankees, Mets and Red Sox). Information about group tickets and mini-packs is available by calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at disneysports.com. The popular mini-packs will include both three-game and five-game options in 2009 and are currently on sale, giving fans their first opportunity to purchase tickets to specific games on the Braves’ 2009 spring training schedule. Fans may also purchase Atlanta Braves Spring Training travel packages through Spring Training USA. Travel packages include Braves game tickets, accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort and other benefits. Information is available online at springtrainingtours.com. Braves pitchers and catchers report Feb. 14, marking the beginning of the 12th year the Braves have come to Walt Disney World Resort for spring training. Position players arrive Feb. 17, with the first full-squad workouts on Feb. 18.
It’s a Bigger Moms Panel for the Mouse: Disney Parks Selects
16 New Parents for its 2009 Walt Disney World Moms Panel
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Disney Parks launches its second Walt Disney World Moms Panel in January with an eclectic group of parents – 16 Disney-savvy people from the suburbs of New Hampshire and Louisiana to “neighbors abroad” in Ottawa and England who will share their own tried and true tips for planning a Walt Disney World vacation with families online at disneyworldmoms.com. The interactive online forum consists of 15 moms and one dad who have proven their Disney knowledge and ability to field vacation-planning questions from all park-goers. Featuring a grandmother from Indiana who treasures celebrations at the parks to a New Jersey mom who has mastered Disney vacations with a special needs child, these Walt Disney World experts ensure that no hidden Mickey is left undiscovered.
Welcoming the Moms into their new roles is Kim LaPaglia from Annville, Pa., a member of the inaugural panel who will continue to lend her Disney smarts – this time to families sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line. For more information, visit disneyworldmoms.com.
Kids Sail Free on 3-Night Disney Wonder Sailings this Spring
CELEBRATION, Fla. – Disney Cruise Line, a leader in the family cruise segment, is making it easier than ever for families who have dreamt of taking a Disney cruise vacation to sail the most magical ship afloat with a “Kids Free” special offer on three-night cruises this winter and spring.
Guests 12 and under can sail free on three-night voyages aboard the Disney Wonder when accompanied by two full-fare paying guests within the same stateroom. This offer is valid for most sailings from Jan. 22 to May 28, 2009, and covers a variety of stateroom categories, ranging from deluxe family staterooms with verandahs to standard inside staterooms. However, there are a limited number of staterooms available for this special offer. While the cruise fare with this special offer is free for guests 12 and under, guests who book will be responsible for Government Taxes and Fees for all stateroom occupants, including those 12 and under.
Guests who sail during this time period will enjoy a whole host of new offerings on the Disney Wonder. The ship recently launched a 3-D cinematic experience in both the Walt Disney and Buena Vista theaters where guests can enjoy first-run, full-length 3-D films such as Walt Disney Pictures’ “Bolt” and the upcoming “Jonas Brothers: The 3-D Concert Experience.” This past spring the Disney Wonder premiered a lavish theatrical production, “Toy Story-The Musical.” Additionally, young cruisers will delight in new activities at the Oceaneer Club and Lab featuring characters and storylines from popular Disney Channel movies.
To book a vacation or to get complete details on the “Kids Free” special offer, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com/kidsfree or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Guests should mention or input booking code “FREE” when making the reservation.
Disney’s Endurance Series Introducing 2 Road-Running Events
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Road-running enthusiasts will have new opportunities to run for fun at Walt Disney World Resort this spring as Disney’s Endurance Series introduces ESPN The Weekend 5K Feb. 28 and Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Lady Foot Locker March 6-8.
The ESPN The Weekend 5K at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will include special appearances by ESPN talent, and a portion of every entry fee will benefit the V Foundation for cancer research. Kids races are also offered.
The Princess Half Marathon Weekend will bring women of all ages together to participate in an event designed just for them – with the Disney Princesses as the inspiration. The weekend includes a half marathon, a family 5K, kids races and an expo.
Food at the Touch of a Screen at New Contempo Cafe
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Quick-service eats go high tech at the new Contempo Cafe in the Grand Canyon Concourse at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Walt Disney World guests peruse the menu on electronic boards with color photos, then place orders at touch screens and head directly to a cashier. Seating is in a casual 147-seat dining area with red and blue accents and views of the Disney monorail passing through the famous hotel, and a 9-story mural with 18,000 hand-painted tiles by artist and Disney Legend Mary Blair.
A pager blinks when food is ready for pickup at the counter. Thin-crust pizzas, hearty deli sandwiches on ciabatta and house-made soups of the day are among selections, as well as a healthful grilled mahi sandwich with citrus-apple slaw or vegetable bake with feta cheese. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there also is a “grab ‘n go” area with drinks, salads and fresh fruit.
Prices are not on menu boards but on the touch screens, where guests can order in Spanish or English. Diners can choose a salad with dressing on the side, for instance, different kinds of cheeses for burgers, or salad or chips with sandwiches.
Contempo Cafe is open daily from 7 a.m.-10 p.m., serving breakfast until 11 a.m. The “grab ‘n go” is open 6 a.m.-midnight. The restaurant is part of Disney’s Contemporary Resort revitalization that includes the new Wave restaurant on the first floor and a new game arcade and refurbishment of the Outer Rim lounge on the fourth floor concourse.
Tags: Dateline Disney, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Resorts, Disney’s Hollywood Studio, Disney’s Wide World of Sports, Moms Panel
Posted in Disney Cruise Line, Disney Parks, General Disney News, Resorts, Theme Parks, WDW Dining, Walt Disney World | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 17th, 2008
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Quick-service eats go high tech at the new Contempo Cafe in the Grand Canyon Concourse at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Walt Disney World guests peruse the menu on electronic boards with color photos, then place orders at touch screens and head directly to a cashier. Seating is in a casual 147-seat dining area with red and blue accents and views of the Disney monorail passing through the famous hotel, and a 9-story mural with 18,000 hand-painted tiles by artist and Disney Legend Mary Blair.
A pager blinks when food is ready for pickup at the counter. Thin-crust pizzas, hearty deli sandwiches on ciabatta and house-made soups of the day are among selections, as well as a healthful grilled mahi sandwich with citrus-apple slaw or vegetable bake with feta cheese. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there also is a “grab ‘n go” area with drinks, salads and fresh fruit.
Prices are not on menu boards but on the touch screens, where guests can order in Spanish or English. Diners can choose a salad with dressing on the side, for instance, different kinds of cheeses for burgers, or salad or chips with sandwiches.
Contempo Cafe is open from 7 a.m.-10 p.m., serving breakfast until 11 a.m. The “grab ‘n go” is open 6 a.m.-midnight. The restaurant is part of Disney’s Contemporary Resort revitalization that includes the new Wave restaurant on the first floor and a new game arcade and refurbishment of the Outer Rim lounge on the fourth floor concourse.
Tags: Contempo Cafe, Contemporary Resort
Posted in Resorts, WDW Dining, Walt Disney World | No Comments »
Tuesday, October 21st, 2008
BC Daytime Stars to Appear at ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Presented by Colgate® Total® at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Eden Riegel (“All My Children”), Kassie DePaiva (“One Life to Live”) and Bradford Anderson (“General Hospital”) are among the talent completing the list of 31 stars from ABC Daytime scheduled to appear at the ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend Nov. 15-16. “All My Children’s” Cameron Mathison will headline the event – which will once again be sponsored by Colgate Total – at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort.
Completing the list from “All My Children” are Rebecca Budig, Bobbie Eakes, Melissa Claire Egan, Ricky Paull Goldin, Thorsten Kaye, Alicia Minshew, Aiden Turner and Darnell Williams. The talent from “One Life to Live” includes Kristen Alderson, Brandon Buddy, Michael Easton, Farah Fath, Susan Haskell, John-Paul Lavoisier, Erika Slezak, Jason Tam, Brittany Underwood and Bree Williamson. Completing the list from “General Hospital” will be Brandon Barash, Julie Berman, Tyler Christopher, Jason Cook, Rebecca Herbst, Kelly Monaco, Kirsten Storms, Jason Thompson and Laura Wright. “All My Children’s” Susan Lucci is currently competing on ABC’s hit show “Dancing with the Stars.” Her participation in the event is pending her “Dancing with the Stars” schedule.
As previously announced, this year will mark the last Super Soap Weekend as ABC’s Daytime Division embarks on the 2009 Soap Nation Tour, a series of nationwide events designed for interaction with fans on a year-round basis, offering greater access to stars in more cities, more often. The final Walt Disney World weekend will be dedicated to the fans with special retrospectives and exclusive productions, including special trivia and commemorative clip packages honoring the 45th anniversary of “General Hospital,” the 40th anniversary of “One Life to Live,” “All My Children’s” 10,000th episode and past Super Soap Weekends. Super Soap Weekend will become more interactive than ever with the introduction of new mobile programs and text trivia. A special musical number will be developed for Colgate Total Street Jam that honors the final event as well.
Throughout the weekend, fans will have the opportunity to meet favorite stars from “All My Children,” “One Life to Live” and “General Hospital.” Festivities include celebrity motorcades, autograph sessions, game shows, interviews and the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind memorabilia from each of the shows. The Colgate Total Street Jam will close the event each day with live musical performances by some favorite Daytime stars.
ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend is included with theme park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – where guests of all ages are caught up in the glitz, glamour and excitement of show business. For future updates and more information about ABC-SOAPnet Super Soap Weekend, guests may call the Super Soap Hotline recording at 407/397-6808, or visit the ABC Daytime Web site at soapnet.com.
Downtown Disney Becomes Lively Outdoor Gallery
During Festival of the Masters, Nov. 7-9
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The lakeside setting of Downtown Disney becomes the backdrop for more than 150 artisans displaying original creations during the 33rd annual Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World Resort, Nov. 7-9, 2008. Festival of the Masters, presented by Sharpie®, is a nationally recognized art show which is ranked among the country’s best outdoor art festivals each year.
To qualify for Festival of the Masters, artists must have earned a primary award in a juried art festival within the last three years. Prospective exhibitors submit award verification and samples of their art to a jury of art experts who select the participants. This process ensures that visitors to the festival will be treated to one of the finest collections of art in the nation.
Sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, glass, and digital art are just some of the art genres showcased at this year’s event. Street painters from the Florida Chalk Artists Association will decorate some 6,000 square feet of sidewalk with unique drawings. Youngsters can take in the fun with live music, face painting and interactive kid’s zones.
House of Blues will celebrate the creative spirit of folk art during the 10th annual “Where the Art Meets the Soul” Folk Art Festival at Downtown Disney West Side.
To add an international flair to the festival, Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will host the works of three artists associated with the Cherrylane Fine Arts Gallery in Delgany, County Wicklow, Ireland.
Festival hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival. Admission is complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, contact 407/824-4321 or visit www.disneyworld.com/artfestival.
Funosaurus! T-Rex at Downtown Disney Takes Guests
On a Dining Adventure to a Prehistoric Time
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World guests can go on an adventure back in time to dine among the dinosaurs as T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover opens it doors at Downtown Disney. Following an October launch, November marks the first full month of operation.
T-Rex, developed by Schussler Creative, Inc., and operated by Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., features dining and retail in a 30,000-square-foot, 600-seat family-friendly interactive prehistoric environment. The concept is built around water, fire and ice: Guests are greeted with life-size animatronic dinosaurs among cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site and much more.
Schussler Creative Chairman Steve Schussler, the founder of Rainforest Café and the T-Rex restaurant, depicts the experience as “edutainment,” noting that this “treat for all five senses” includes artifacts such as fossils – all carefully labeled – that are hundreds of millions of years old, carefully crafted animatronic dinosaurs, and even a meteorite found in Argentina. A full-size skeleton replica of Argentinosaurus, one of the largest of the dinosaurs and copied from a museum specimen about 125 feet in length, looms over the entrance, joined by a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
The theme carries over to the menu, which features items with names such as Caesarsaurus (Caesar salad), Raptor Ribs (Asian BBQ ribs), Pterodactyl Wings (Buffalo chicken wings), Triassic Tortellini (tri-colored cheese tortellini) and Gigantosaurus Burger (think really big hamburger!).
Tinker Bell Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to New Fairy Friends
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – To celebrate the animated film “Tinker Bell,” Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in a new meet-and-greet experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.
To meet Tinker Bell and her fairy friends, guests enter a magical forest inspired by Pixie Hollow, a special place deep in the heart of Never Land.
Tinker Bell, made famous in the 1953 Disney animated classic “Peter Pan,” for her “hostess” role in Disney television specials and for “flying” above the Disney theme parks, is joined by four fairy friends: Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy. Guests can learn more about the Disney Fairies at disneyfairies.com.
Last Call: November Marks Final Days of Epcot Food & Wine Fest
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Like a great meal with memorable courses still to go, there is still time to savor the best of the 13th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The six-week festival continues through Nov. 9 with great tastes from more than 25 festival marketplaces serving up tapas-sized portions of regional specialties, complimentary wine and beer tastings, and culinary demonstrations – plus the nightly Eat to the Beat! concert series featuring these upcoming acts:
· Oct. 31-Nov. 2 – Atlanta Rhythm Section
· Nov. 3-Nov. 5 – David Cassidy
· Nov. 6-Nov. 7 – Night Ranger
· Nov. 8-Nov. 9 – Los Lobos
Children’s Miracle Network Classic Brings PGA TOUR Pros
To Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic presented by Wal-Mart will be played Nov. 6-9 on Disney’s Magnolia and Palm courses, with practice rounds Nov. 3-5 on the same Walt Disney World Resort layouts.
The 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Classic marks a continuation of the longest-running PGA TOUR event in Central Florida – a 38-year heritage that has produced a champions list which includes Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Vijay Singh, Payne Stewart and many more top professional golfers. Defending champion is Stephen Ames.
As the last event on the 2008 TOUR schedule, the Classic takes on added significance for many golfers striving to earn full playing exemptions for 2009 by finishing among the top 125 money winners in 2008. The purse is $4.6 million, with a share of $828,000 to the winner.
Tickets ($20 for one tournament day, $30 for the whole week including practice days) can be purchased online at childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com or at the tournament entrance. Guests can call the Classic hotline at 407/824-2250 for more information.
Guests Test Archery Skills at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – As part of exciting new additions to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, the resort now invites William Tell-wannabes to grab bow and arrow and test their skills at a new archery range. Whether novice or expert marksman, an archery guide offers training and tips on how to hit the bull’s-eye. Offered on select afternoons and open to resort guests and non-guests alike, the 90-minute experience costs $25 (plus tax) per person, includes instruction and equipment and can be booked ahead by calling 407/939-7529.
New ‘High School Musical’ Fun Comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – A high-energy cast of 14 singers and dancers takes to the streets of Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the new guest-immersive experience, “High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!”
Celebrating the infectious energy of the theatrical motion picture “High School Musical 3: Senior Year,” the show takes place on a traveling “rock concert” stage that stops in front of the iconic Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat for production numbers featuring new songs from the movie. Debut of the show is concurrent with the opening of the movie (Oct. 24).
Guests are treated to a total of six original songs from the movie, including a memorably rousing finale entitled “High School Musical.”
Envelope, Please: Industry Awards Bestowed on Florida’s Vacation Kingdom
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World Resort was the recipient of recent industry awards for excellence:
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa walked off with the honor as “North America’s Leading Resort” in the UK-based World Travel Awards as rated by thousands of agents and travel professionals globally.
- Epcot’s “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth” nighttime spectacular earned the Golden Ticket Award as “Best Outdoor Night Production” in an international poll of the amusement industry conducted by Amusement Today, a leading trade publication.
Magic Kingdom a Holiday Festival
As Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Returns
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Magic Kingdom decks the halls, walls, byways, skies, castle spires and more as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes center stage again this holiday season. The special after-hours event treats Walt Disney World guests to magic and merriment on 18 select nights in 2008: Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30 and Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19. The fun begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours.
It’s a magical night of special holiday entertainment including Castle Dreamlights, an enchanting parade, a nighttime fireworks spectacular, Disney character greetings, tasty treats, “snow” on Main Street, U.S.A. plus the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions.
Admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party requires a separate ticket. Tickets purchased in advance for select nights are $42.95 plus tax for ages 3-9, $48.95 plus tax for ages 10 and over. Day-of-event pricing is $7 more for each ticket. For general information, guests can call 407/W-DISNEY or visit disneyworld.com/holidays.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Shines
With Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Nothing says “Joy of the Season” quite like the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by Sylvania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This year’s spectacular – Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009 – stars millions of blinking, twinkling lights “dancing” to a high-energy holiday symphony.
Guests are treated to twirling carousels, sparkling snowflakes, heavenly angels, majestic trees, twinkling bells, colorful wreaths and Santa with his reindeer. The “dancing lights” moments occur every 10 minutes.
Holidays Around the World Shine Brightly at Epcot
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – “Holidays Around the World” turns Epcot into a fantasy of celebrations Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009. World Showcase comes alive with holiday traditions of food, fun and entertainment from across the globe. There are holiday storytellers, a whole world of holiday shopping and a magnificent tree glistening with lights and color. A grand Epcot tradition, the Candlelight Processional, features celebrity narrators delivering a special retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by an orchestra and mass choir. Even the nighttime spectacular, “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” is topped with a surprise grand finale for the joyous time of year.
New Year’s Eve ‘Cirque-Style’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla – Guests can ring in the New Year “Cirque-style” with La Nouba, by Cirque du Soleil. The eye-filling show features breathtaking performances, moving live music, dazzling choreography and endless imagination all wrapped up with a special finale. Show times are 6 and 9 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at disneyworld.com or by calling 407/WDW-SEAT (407/939-7328).
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Rocks to ‘Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade’
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – It’s a holiday combination as perfect as milk and gingerbread cookies. “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade” blends the spirit of Disney’s Animal Kingdom with the spirit of the season into an unforgettable holiday offering. Dates are Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2009.
Inside the Disney Ambassador Program: A True-Life Fairy Tale Revealed
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Much like Cinderella’s Prince Charming searching for the perfect fit in the glass slipper, Disney officials have spent the last few months rigorously looking for a select few cast members who can step into the role of Walt Disney World Ambassador, a 44-year tradition that offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences for those who demonstrate poise, passion and knowledge of Disney heritage.
The honor of being selected Disney Ambassador began during the 10th anniversary of Disneyland when Walt was overwhelmed with requests for appearances and needed a few good surrogates. He selected the first Ambassador in 1964, and the tradition has continued ever since.
Serving as the face of the company and good will ambassador to the world, the 2008 Walt Disney World Ambassador Team of Kerri MacPherson (originally from Melrose, Mass.) and TC Newman (originally from Tustin, Calif.) has participated in more than 1,300 events, visited 38 children’s hospitals during a 22-city national tour and logged tens of thousands of miles traveling to Disney destinations around the globe during a term of service that began in January. They’ve hosted VIPs and dignitaries at Walt Disney World Resort, cut hundreds of grand-opening ribbons, shared third-shift breakfasts at 1 a.m. and read story books to Central Florida children.
Their successor team will participate in training during November for the year-long temporary assignment that begins Jan. 1, 2009. For them, the experience of representing the 62,000 cast members of Walt Disney World Resort will make it one of the most memorable years of their lives.
Tags: Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Festival of the Masters, Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, High School Musical, Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade, Super Soap Weekend, T-Rex, Tinker Bell
Posted in Annual Events, Downtown Disney, Resorts, Theme Parks, Uncategorized, WDW Dining, Walt Disney World | No Comments »
Tuesday, October 7th, 2008
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World guests can go on an adventure back in time to dine among the dinosaurs as T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover® opens it doors at Downtown Disney in mid October.
T-Rex, developed by Schussler Creative, Inc. and operated by Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., features dining and retail in a 30,000-square-foot, 600-seat, family-friendly interactive prehistoric environment. The concept is built around water, fire and ice: Guests are greeted with life-size animatronic dinosaurs among cascading waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil dig site and much more.
Schussler Creative Chairman Steve Schussler, the founder of Rainforest Cafe and the T-Rex restaurant, depicts the experience as “edutainment,” noting that this “treat for all five senses” includes artifacts such as fossils – all carefully labeled – that are hundreds of millions of years old, carefully crafted animatronic dinosaurs, and even a meteorite found in Argentina.
A full-size skeleton replica of Argentinosaurus, one of the largest of the dinosaurs and copied from a museum specimen about 125 feet in length, looms over the entrance, joined by a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
The prehistoric theme extends to the menu, which features items with names such as Caesarsaurus (Caesar salad), Raptor Ribs (Asian BBQ ribs), Pterodactyl Wings (Buffalo chicken wings), Triassic Tortellini (tri-colored cheese tortellini) and Gigantosaurus Burger (think really big hamburger!).
Menu choices range from starters (appetizers, salads and soups) to pastas, burgers and sandwiches to a broad selection of entrees plus desserts. Some favorites include rotisserie chicken, fried shrimp, steaks and ribs, tarragon chicken salad sandwich, Cobb salad and “Chocolate Extinction.”
Guests can make reservations by calling 407/WDW-DINE.
Tags: Dining, Downtown Disney, T-Rex, Walt Disney World
Posted in Downtown Disney, WDW Dining, Walt Disney World | No Comments »
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