Archive for March, 2008

The Pixar Play Parade

Sunday, March 30th, 2008

Lasting just over 20 minutes long, the Pixar Play Parade is a must see for all kids, and adults, too!  Characters from all of the Disney-Pixar movies, such as Toy Story, Cars, Monsters, Inc, A Bug’s Life, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, and Ratatouille, join the fun for the viewing pleasure of all parade goers.

 

A few words of caution though – if you do not want to get wet, either do not attend the parade or locate a seat far back!  Each colorful float has the ability to spray water.  When the weather is cooler, however, bubbles replace the inevitable drops of water that “front seaters” are bound to endure!   

 

In addition to the characters riding on the floats, a show is also presented by characters on the ground.  For example, there are dancing bugs and monsters, puppeteers, and stilt-walking chefs.  These fun characters make sure they spend some time mingling with the parade attendees.

 

The parade runs from the gates next to the entrance to Hollywood and around the Sunshine Plaza, then through the Golden State area before ending near the Orange Stinger in the Paradise Pier area.  It takes place once a day during the late afternoon.

 

Toy Story Mania

Wednesday, March 26th, 2008
Imagine donning 3-D glasses and entering a 4-D world where characters welcome you for an interactive adventure. That is exactly what you will with Disney’s new Toy Story Mania. The first interaction guests will have will be with Mr Potato Head, as he welcomes them into the theme-park attraction. Then, tram-riders will “shrink” to the size of a toy and embark on fast travels and spinning fun. 
 
The colorful route initially takes guests through “Andy’s Bedroom” which is filled with oversized murals and toys. Next, they will partake in game booths that are comprised of games of skill. Because riders are sitting side by side, game competition also takes place. With the 4-D technology, game players can sense objects flying past them. There are five games in all, plus a practice game, that guests get to indulge in, designed at all skill levels – from beginners to serious gamers.  
 
Games are as follows:
  • Pie Throw Practice – splattering targets with virtual pies
  • Hamm & Eggs – launching plastic virtual eggs at various barnyard targets
  • Bo Peep’s Baaa-loon Pop – launching virtual darts at balloon sheep, trees, and other targets
  • Green Army Men Shoot Camp – breaking plates with baseballs
  • Buzz Lightyear’s Flying Tossers – ring toss game
  • Woody’s Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Gallery – launching virtual suction cup darts at targets

 

 

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2008

Sunday, March 23rd, 2008
For all of you wine lovers, it’s time to start planning your Florida vacation for the 13th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The events begin on September 26th and go all the way until November 9th, taking place at Walt Disney World Resort.
 
 
A perfect combination of fine cuisine and wines from cities all over the world is what is comprised in this annual festival. Six different continents are represented through their various exotic flavors and comfort foods. Visitors can walk through and sample flavors from the various kiosks at the resort. Each day, Walt Disney will sponsor complimentary wine and beer tastings, along with culinary programs with guest chefs, winemakers and speakers. 
 
What started as a smaller event 13 years ago has grown to the magnificent size of over one million visitors. In addition to the refreshments of the taste buds, the audio senses of festival-goers will also be rewarded. The concerts are labeled “Eat to the Beat” and include classic rock, soul, R&B, oldies, jazz, and much more. These music shows take place at America Gardens Theatre. 
 
Included in the Epcot admission price is:
  • Wine and beer seminars
  • Cooking demonstrations
  • Special book signings
  • Concerts
  • Culinary and cultural exhibits
  • All attractions and park entertainment

Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit

Thursday, March 20th, 2008

In an effort to obtain a ground breaking edge on the attractions at other theme parks, Universal Orlando declares the new rollercoaster planned for 2009. The name of this rollercoaster is the “Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit.”

The ride is to feature high speed loops, turns and digital technology. This technology will allow each person who rides it to create their own, individualized experience. First, whatever genre of music the individual prefers will be an option for the song choice “soundtracked” for the ride. Since the ride is videotaped, riders can opt for a copy and, with the song playing, a music video is created for purchase. 

 
Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will be an amazing 17 stories high and will include speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. The loop is record breaking, and riders will encounter six “near misses” throughout the ride. The options that individuals have allow no two experiences to be the same, making going back for another thrill seeking adventure to be different from the last. 
 
Universal Orlando plans for the location fo the ride to be near Jimmy Neutron’s.  It will trace along the park’s outer limits, trailing over the CityWalk lagoon and back again.

Disney World Flower and Garden Festival

Saturday, March 15th, 2008

                                                                                                   

 

If the Disney World Flower and Garden Festival is of interest to you, the time has almost arrived! From March 19th through June 1st, a span of over 75 days, some of the most amazing displays will be on view at Epcot. Disney World takes the art of topiary to a whole new level with exhibits ranging from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Pluto, and everything in between!

There will literally be MILLIONS of blooms held within the artwork that the numerous horticulturists have spent long hours honing to perfection. Speaking of horticulturists, a new addition to the festival called Garden Town allows event visitors to interact with some of the premier horticulturists who are responsible for the colorful blossoms. These interactions will allow individuals to receive flower growing and cultivating tips, as well as take part in demonstrations. A presentation by DuPont educates viewers on turning their yard into an elegant place to entertain and relax through “The Keys to Outdoor Living.” These are only a few of the activities that visitors can partake in throughout their time at the festival.

In addition to the magnificent displays, Disney World offers a variety of subcategories to choose from. For example, the Butterfly House, a popular repeat, has butterflies flying free for kids (and adults) to enjoy up close. And don’t miss the Flower Power Concert Series, music provided in the evenings at American Gardens Theatre.

Since the event is spread over 2 ½ months, there’s no need to miss this opportunity provided by Disney. Download the complete event guide here.