define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true); define('DISALLOW_FILE_MODS', true); August 2009 » Disney World Today
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New La Cava del Tequila Serves Up Tastes of Mexican Tequila Heritage

August 29, 2009
Filed In Shopping & Dining
 
 
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Tasty tequilas and mouthwatering margaritas are on tap at La Cava del Tequila, a new offering for Epcot guests to explore the heritage and tradition of tequila-making in Mexico.  
Tucked away in the Mexico pavilion at Epcot, La Cava del Tequila beckons guests with more than 70 types of authentic tequila, ranging from the simplest to the rarest of them all, aged to perfection and made from the finest distilled spirits from the agave plant. Tequilas range in price from $8 to $50 for a specialty tequila.
Amid warm décor, art work and original artifacts all celebrating the Mexican heritage, a “Tequila Ambassador” is on hand to educate Walt Disney World guests on the history of tequila-making.
Also on the drink menu: Exotic and uniquely blended margaritas, introducing a variety of flavored salts, spices and tropical fresh fruits masterfully prepared by experienced mixologists.  A variety of quick tastes, tapas style, will be available, including freshly made guacamole and ceviche as well as mahi mahi tostadas with diced mango and avocado and blue crab tostados with chipotle mayo and Valentina sauce.
The 30-seat La Cava del Tequila is open from noon until Epcot park closing time.  It is connected to the famous San Angel Inn as part of the Mexico pavilion, a popular stop for Walt Disney World guests.
 
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New La Cava del Tequila Serves Up Tastes of Mexican Tequila Heritage

August 29, 2009
Filed In Epcot
 
 
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Tasty tequilas and mouthwatering margaritas are on tap at La Cava del Tequila, a new offering for Epcot guests to explore the heritage and tradition of tequila-making in Mexico.  
Tucked away in the Mexico pavilion at Epcot, La Cava del Tequila beckons guests with more than 70 types of authentic tequila, ranging from the simplest to the rarest of them all, aged to perfection and made from the finest distilled spirits from the agave plant. Tequilas range in price from $8 to $50 for a specialty tequila.
Amid warm décor, art work and original artifacts all celebrating the Mexican heritage, a “Tequila Ambassador” is on hand to educate Walt Disney World guests on the history of tequila-making.
Also on the drink menu: Exotic and uniquely blended margaritas, introducing a variety of flavored salts, spices and tropical fresh fruits masterfully prepared by experienced mixologists.  A variety of quick tastes, tapas style, will be available, including freshly made guacamole and ceviche as well as mahi mahi tostadas with diced mango and avocado and blue crab tostados with chipotle mayo and Valentina sauce.
The 30-seat La Cava del Tequila is open from noon until Epcot park closing time.  It is connected to the famous San Angel Inn as part of the Mexico pavilion, a popular stop for Walt Disney World guests.
 
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New La Cava del Tequila Serves Up Tastes of Mexican Tequila Heritage

August 29, 2009
Filed In Epcot
 
 
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Tasty tequilas and mouthwatering margaritas are on tap at La Cava del Tequila, a new offering for Epcot guests to explore the heritage and tradition of tequila-making in Mexico.  
Tucked away in the Mexico pavilion at Epcot, La Cava del Tequila beckons guests with more than 70 types of authentic tequila, ranging from the simplest to the rarest of them all, aged to perfection and made from the finest distilled spirits from the agave plant. Tequilas range in price from $8 to $50 for a specialty tequila.
Amid warm décor, art work and original artifacts all celebrating the Mexican heritage, a “Tequila Ambassador” is on hand to educate Walt Disney World guests on the history of tequila-making.
Also on the drink menu: Exotic and uniquely blended margaritas, introducing a variety of flavored salts, spices and tropical fresh fruits masterfully prepared by experienced mixologists.  A variety of quick tastes, tapas style, will be available, including freshly made guacamole and ceviche as well as mahi mahi tostadas with diced mango and avocado and blue crab tostados with chipotle mayo and Valentina sauce.
The 30-seat La Cava del Tequila is open from noon until Epcot park closing time.  It is connected to the famous San Angel Inn as part of the Mexico pavilion, a popular stop for Walt Disney World guests.
 
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Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey Begins Looking for 2010 Class

August 29, 2009
Filed In Disney Events
 

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Aug. 26, 2009) – Do you know a high school student that could use some encouragement in their lives or a push of excitement toward their goals?

Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, an event created to inspire and enrich high school students, has started accepting nominations for the Class of 2010.  From now until Oct. 2, 2009, parents, teachers, family and friends can nominate the high school students for the highly successful event, which will return to Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14, 2010.  Students can even nominate themselves.

One hundred teens from across the country with big dreams and aspirations will be selected to pack their bags – and their dreams – and head to Walt Disney World Resort, where they will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports and more.

The Disney’s Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be made up of teens nominated through Oct. 2, 2009.  Young dreamers – who must be enrolled in high school for the 2009-10 term – can be nominated by anyone, including parents, guardians, teachers, church members, social organizations – even themselves.  Although a high GPA is not required, students must exhibit a desire to learn, perhaps needing only additional motivational support to excel.  Nomination forms can be found at www.SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy.  

A select panel of judges including national radio personality Steve Harvey, community leaders and Disney representatives will choose the 100 finalists.  The Disney’s Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be announced in November 2009.

"We are very proud of the work we’ve done with Disney’s Dreamers Academy," said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort.  "This program not only celebrates the achievements of the 200 students involved, it also demonstrates the part dreams play in realizing personal and professional goals."

During Disney’s Dreamers Academy in 2010, the students will participate in workshops with Disney cast members and executives, hear inspirational stories from entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and enjoy the Disney theme parks – where they can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as "Disney dreamers."  During the 2009 Disney’s Dreamers Academy, some of the guest speakers were Chef Jeff Henderson, National Football League Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow, pop/R&B recording artists Fantasia and Keyshia Cole, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith and, of course, Steve Harvey.

Harvey said Disney’s Dreamers Academy "is about inspiring our young people who oftentimes don’t have the chance to be exposed to a variety of job skills and job opportunities and meet with people in the fields they’re interested in.  We want to give our young achievers the tools to become overachievers – to make their dreams a reality."
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Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey Begins Looking for 2010 Class

August 29, 2009
Filed In Disney Events
 

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Aug. 26, 2009) – Do you know a high school student that could use some encouragement in their lives or a push of excitement toward their goals?

Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, an event created to inspire and enrich high school students, has started accepting nominations for the Class of 2010.  From now until Oct. 2, 2009, parents, teachers, family and friends can nominate the high school students for the highly successful event, which will return to Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14, 2010.  Students can even nominate themselves.

One hundred teens from across the country with big dreams and aspirations will be selected to pack their bags – and their dreams – and head to Walt Disney World Resort, where they will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports and more.

The Disney’s Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be made up of teens nominated through Oct. 2, 2009.  Young dreamers – who must be enrolled in high school for the 2009-10 term – can be nominated by anyone, including parents, guardians, teachers, church members, social organizations – even themselves.  Although a high GPA is not required, students must exhibit a desire to learn, perhaps needing only additional motivational support to excel.  Nomination forms can be found at www.SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy.  

A select panel of judges including national radio personality Steve Harvey, community leaders and Disney representatives will choose the 100 finalists.  The Disney’s Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be announced in November 2009.

"We are very proud of the work we’ve done with Disney’s Dreamers Academy," said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort.  "This program not only celebrates the achievements of the 200 students involved, it also demonstrates the part dreams play in realizing personal and professional goals."

During Disney’s Dreamers Academy in 2010, the students will participate in workshops with Disney cast members and executives, hear inspirational stories from entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and enjoy the Disney theme parks – where they can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as "Disney dreamers."  During the 2009 Disney’s Dreamers Academy, some of the guest speakers were Chef Jeff Henderson, National Football League Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow, pop/R&B recording artists Fantasia and Keyshia Cole, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith and, of course, Steve Harvey.

Harvey said Disney’s Dreamers Academy "is about inspiring our young people who oftentimes don’t have the chance to be exposed to a variety of job skills and job opportunities and meet with people in the fields they’re interested in.  We want to give our young achievers the tools to become overachievers – to make their dreams a reality."
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Dateline Disney – September-October 2009

August 14, 2009
Filed In Disney Events
 

 
             In This Edition:
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Dove Award-winning NEEDTOBREATHE launches two-night, 19-act Night of Joy 2009 entertainment schedule
Magic Kingdom: Halloween fun begins Sept. 4 with the first Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party; The Pirates League extends hours on Halloween Party days to accommodate “transformations”; Princess Tiana to debut Oct. 26
Epcot: New La Cava del Tequila gives guests a taste of history and heritage of tequila; La Cava del Tequila to host first special event of 14th annual Food & Wine Fest; Party for the Senses to feature weekly themes for first time; Eat to the Beat! plans a 17-course musical feast
Disney’s Wide World of Sports (and recreation): Running enthusiasts can trek the mountains, taste the nations and tame the terror during Disney’s Endurance Series Fall Challenge; Overnight Disney hotel guests can “test drive” Disney golf courses at sweet savings in September; Beachcomber Shacks, Polar Patios provide guests with a place to “chill” at Disney water parks
Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey: Search is underway for 2010 class
Disney Cruise Line: Enhanced flexibility in vacations combining land-and-sea stays coming for 2010
 
 
 

 Halloween Fun Begins in Early September as Magic Kingdom Hosts Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on 24 Select Evenings
           
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Halloween is coming early to Walt Disney World Resort – and is sticking around for a night beyond the traditional Oct. 31.  On 24 evenings between Sept. 4 and Nov. 1, Magic Kingdom will be alive with friendly ghosts and goblins during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

It’s an occasion when guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their own favorite Halloween costumes … and even if they choose not to masquerade, they still get to trick-or-treat around the Magic Kingdom theme park, collecting yummy candy.  Special lighting, music and theming effects combine to transform areas of the park into happy haunted hollows.            

Parties are slated for Sept. 4, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29; Oct. 1, 2, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31 and Nov. 1, with the fun beginning at 7 p.m. and continuing till midnight. The popular event, which takes place following Magic Kingdom closing (requiring separate admission), features two scheduled entertainment extravaganzas exclusive to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween parade and the bewitching “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks spectacular.

The parade begins with a “spook-tacular” ride by the Headless Horseman and showcases Disney characters decked out for the occasion and the stars of the Haunted Mansion attraction.  During the fireworks show, the Disney villains go trick-or-treating in the sky.

To purchase advance tickets, guests can visit disneyworld.com/halloween or call 407/W-DISNEY. For most party dates, if tickets are purchased prior to event day, guests save $7 per ticket.

 
Transformations into Pirates ‘All the Thing’ on Halloween Party Dates; The Pirates League in Magic Kingdom Extends Hours on Those Days
                 
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Magic Kingdom guests may see more than a few youngins – and some blokes, too – masquerading as scoundrels, rogues and ne’er-do-wells on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates in September and October.  That’s because The Pirates League, an outpost in Adventureland where Walt Disney World guests are transformed into swashbucklers, is already getting reservation requests for Halloween Party-day transformations – and expects a lot more.

To accommodate anticipated requests, The Pirates League will extend its hours of operation to 8 p.m. on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates – Sept. 4, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29, Oct. 1, 2, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31 and Nov. 1.  Reservations can be arranged by calling 407/WDW-CREW (939-2739).  Based on availability, walk-ups will be accommodated until 7:45 p.m. on those dates – but reservations are strongly recommended.

Each guest (ages 3-and-up) checking in at the plunder-filled pirate’s lair (next to the Pirates of the Caribbean gift shop) gets an official pirate name.  Then it’s off to Muster Station for applications of beards and eye patches, scarves and scars, earrings and pirate teeth – all done with the savvy skill of a veteran pirate who shares his or her own tales of sea-sailing adventures.

After the new buccaneers recite a sacred pirate oath, they are officially part of Captain Jack’s motley crew, leaving their old identities behind.  Past a hidden portal and into the treasure room, the shipmates have their “pirate portrait” taken before being turned loose on an unsuspecting Adventureland – and no doubt feeling right at home at the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.

Guests can choose from three daily pirate packages – including an Empress Package.  All the details are available at disneyworld.com/crew. 


NEEDTOBREATHE Launches Star-Powered, 19-Act Night of Joy Lineup
Into Show Schedule Sept. 11-12 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
                                               

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Dove Award-winning NEEDTOBREATHE will raise the curtain on Walt Disney World Night of Joy 2009, playing a 7 p.m. show on Sept. 11 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as the first of 19 Christian music acts performing during the two-night event (Sept. 11-12).  Night of Joy takes place after regular park closing and requires a separate ticket.            

The lineup for this 27th edition of Night of Joy is musically diverse, with multi-platinum Christian rock band P.O.D. making its 2009 concert debut as part of the Sept. 11 show schedule, and before Grammy Award-winning alternative contemporary Christian band Jars of Clay brings down the curtain with a late-night show on Sept. 12, the studios’ stages also will have been alive with MercyMe, newsboys, Skillet, Flyleaf, Chris Tomlin, Kutless, Grits, Leeland, Superchick, Mandisa, Family Force 5, Francesca Battisteli, Revive, Josh Wilson, Above the Golden State and Abandon.

Concerts start between 7 p.m. and 12:15 a.m. each evening at four stage locations throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park.  The schedule also includes star conversations with select performers – plus the opportunity for guests to experience many popular Disney’s Hollywood Studios attractions.  Here’s how they’ll line up (talent, show times and locations are subject to change without notice):

 
FRIDAY, SEPT. 11, 2009
Artist
Stage
Showtimes
NEEDTOBREATHE
Theater of the Stars (Sponsored by EyesofFaith.com)
7 p.m.
Francesca Batistelli
Icon Stage
7:15 p.m.
Chris Tomlin
Lights, Motors, Action! Stage
7:15 p.m. & 8:45 p.m.
newsboys (Conversation)
Premiere Theater
7:30 p.m.
Leeland
Theater of the Stars
8 p.m. & 9:15 p.m.
Above the Golden State
Premiere Theater (Sponsored by EMI Christian Music Group)
8 p.m.
Kutless
Icon Stage
8:15 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
P.O.D. (Conversation)
Premiere Theater
9 p.m.
Josh Wilson
Premiere Theater
9:30 p.m.
Chris Tomlin (Conversation)
Premiere Theater
10:30 p.m.
P.O.D.
Lights, Motors, Action! Stage
10:30 p.m. & midnight
Superchick
Theater of the Stars
10:45 p.m. & midnight
Abandon
Premiere Theater
11 p.m.
newsboys
Icon Stage
11 p.m. & 12:15 a.m.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 2009
Artist
Stage
Showtimes
Grits
Theater of the Stars (Sponsored by EyesofFaith.com)
7 p.m.
Revive
Icon Stage
7:15 p.m.
MercyMe
Lights, Motors, Action! Stage
7:15 p.m. & 8:45 p.m.
Skillet (Conversation)
Premiere Theater
7:30 p.m.
Mandisa
Theater of the Stars
8 p.m. & 9:15 p.m.
Above the Golden State
Premiere Theater (Sponsored by EMI Christian Music Group)
8 p.m.
Flyleaf
Icon Stage
8:15 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
Jars of Clay (Conversation)
Premiere Theater
9 p.m.
Gospel Music Assoc. Winner
Icon Stage
9:15 p.m.
Josh Wilson
Premiere Theater
9:30 p.m.
MercyMe (Conversation)
Premiere Theater
10:30 p.m.
Skillet
Lights, Motors, Action! Stage
10:30 p.m. & midnight
Family Force 5
Theater of the Stars
10:45 p.m. & midnight
Abandon
Premiere Theater
11 p.m.
Jars of Clay
Icon Stage
11 p.m. & 12:15 a.m.
           
Money-saving ticket options are currently available. One-night tickets purchased in advance are $49.95 (a $5 per ticket savings compared to tickets purchased on event days – if available). Guests can save even more with a two-night ticket available in advance for $84.95.  Groups of 10 or more who want to fill a weekend with uplifting music and Disney theme park fun can take advantage of the most value-packed Night of Joy group offer ever: Admission to both Night of Joy 2009 contemporary Christian music events (Sept. 11 and Sept. 12) plus two one-day, one-park admissions to Walt Disney World theme parks during Night of Joy weekend (Sept. 11-13) – all for less than $100 plus tax per person.

More details are available at nightofjoy.com.  Individual tickets may be purchased online or by calling 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639).  Groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets online or by calling 877/NITE-JOY (648-3569).

New La Cava del Tequila Serves Up Tastes of Mexican Tequila Heritage

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – La Cava del Tequila is the newest opportunity for Epcot guests to explore the tastes of an international culture – in this case, the heritage and tradition of tequila-making in Mexico. Opening early September at the Mexico pavilion in World Showcase, La Cava del Tequila offers more than 70 types of authentic tequila, ranging from the simplest to the rarest of them all, aged to perfection and made from the finest distilled spirits from the agave plant.

Amid décor, art work and original artifacts all celebrating the Mexican heritage, a “Tequila Ambassador” will educate Walt Disney World guests on the history of tequila-making.

Also on the drink menu: Exotic and uniquely blended margaritas, introducing a variety of flavored salts, spices and tropical fresh fruits masterfully prepared by experienced mixologists.  A variety of quick tastes, tapas style, will be available, including freshly made guacamole, home-fried fresh corn chips, salsas, ceviches and tostadas. 


Newest Epcot Food & Beverage Location to Host First Special Event
Of 14th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – La Cava del Tequila, the newest food and beverage location at Epcot, will launch the lineup of special events at the 14th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival with a Mexico Tequila Tasting on Sept. 25, the opening day of the festival at Walt Disney World Resort.

During the session, available by advance reservation, guests taste authentic Mexican tequila and learn about the history and traditions around its production from a true Tequila Master.  La Cava del Tequila is located at the Mexico pavilion in World Showcase.

During opening weekend, other special events include a Cheese Seminar where guests learn about the cheeses of Spain from expert “fromager” Waldemar Albrecht-Luna, a Food and Wine Pairing at Tutto Italia Ristorante where guests discover a marriage of three regional wines with three tasting-size portions of Italian cuisine, a Sweet Sundays session with Pastry Chef Rick Griggs from Abacus in Dallas, and the big Saturday night Party for the Senses featuring Spanish cuisine.

Cheese Seminars, Party for the Senses, Food and Wine Pairings, Sweet Sundays and Mexico Tequila Tastings are just some of the many specially ticketed events that take place during the six entertainment-packed weeks of the festival Sept. 25-Nov. 8.  There are Celebrating Family & Friends in the Kitchen sessions featuring celebrity culinarians who prepare a three-course luncheon, French Regional Lunches, Epcot Wine Schools and more.  Information and reservations for the special events and programs are available by calling 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378).

Meanwhile, every day throughout the festival, Epcot guests can taste fine cuisine and wines celebrating more than 20 “foodie” cities on six continents at marketplaces along the World Showcase promenade.  Tapas-sized portions of regional specialties run $2 to $7 each, and recommended wines and beers make perfect pairings at each kiosk.  The festival also includes live regional entertainment, daily wine and beer tastings, and the popular Eat to the Beat! concert series.

Festival details are available at disneyworld.com/foodandwine.
 


Popular Party for the Senses Presents Weekly Epicurean Themes,
Premium Lounge Area for First Time at Epcot Food & Wine Fest

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The big Saturday night Party for the Senses, a popular weekly event during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, will be a series of seven distinctive events celebrating a variety of epicurean themes in 2009.

Beginning with a bash celebrating Spanish cuisine on Sept. 26, Party for the Senses will treat guests to an evening alive with gastronomy at its best combined with world-class musical acts.  During October, Party for the Senses will celebrate Comfort Foods with a Twist (Oct. 3), South American Cuisine (Oct. 10), Classical Cuisine (Oct. 17), Asian Cuisine (Oct. 24) and Fall Harvest (Oct. 31).

Guests start the evening with special seating at the Eat to the Beat! concert series at the America Gardens Theatre for a performance by a big-name musical artist.  Immediately following the performance, World ShowPlace becomes the setting for a grand culinary event.  Guests can casually explore the flavors being served at tempting tasting stations in the midst of imaginative décor and entertainment from 6:30-9 p.m.

A limited number of guests can enhance the evening by arranging for a spot in the new Wine View Lounge, an exclusive area within Party for the Senses where they can mingle, relax and engage in pleasant conversation.  The lounge features amenities such as private reserved tables, a welcome specialty drink, premium bar, an artisanal cheese station, parting gifts and more.

Party for the Senses costs $135 per person, plus tax (gratuity is included).  Theme park admission is required.  The Wine View Lounge is an additional $75 (per person, plus tax, including gratuity).  Reservations are available by calling 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378).


Eat to the Beat! Serves up a Musical Feast at Epcot Beginning Sept. 25 During Food & Wine Festival
           
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – A 17-course musical feast will be served during the 14th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival as an eclectic lineup of acts takes the stage for Eat to the Beat! concerts nightly Sept. 25-Nov. 8.

Contemporary swing group Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, which rocketed to stardom in 1996 when “You & Me and the Bottle Makes Three (Tonight)” and “Go Daddy-O” were featured in the motion picture “Swingers,”will serve up the first musical “course” Sept. 25-27.  And by the time the curtain falls Nov. 8, Epcot guests will have had a chance to feast on everything from rock to jazz, funk to pop.  In fact, the final of the 17 acts, Los Lobos (Nov. 6-8), has been depicted as mixing rock, folk, Tex-Mex, blues, country … and more!

Six acts new to Eat to the Beat! are part of the lineup, including 1980s-90s pop-rock star Richard Marx, who will follow Big Bad Voodoo Daddy to the stage Sept. 28-29.  “Newbies” showcased in October are Better Than Ezra, Vanessa Carlton and John Waite.

Concerts at America Gardens Theatre begin at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. daily.  They are included with Epcot admission.  The September-October talent lineup (subject to change) includes:

Sept. 25-27 
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (“You & Me and The Bottle Makes Three (Tonight)”
Sept. 28-29
Richard Marx (“Hold On to the Nights”)
Sept. 30-Oct. 3
Starship starring Mickey Thomas (“We Built This City”)
Oct. 4-6
En Vogue (“Free Your Mind”)
Oct. 7-8
Better Than Ezra (“Good”)
Oct. 9-11
Sister Hazel (“All for You”)
Oct. 12-13
Kool & The Gang (“Celebration”)
Oct. 14-16
Spyro Gyra (“Morning Dance”)
Oct. 17-18
Jon Secada (“Just Another Day”)
Oct. 19-20
Sister Sledge (“We Are Family”)
Oct. 21-22
Vanessa Carlton (“A Thousand Miles”)
Oct. 23-25
Taylor Dayne (“Tell It to My Heart”)
Oct. 26-28
Boyz II Men (“Motownphilly”)
Oct. 29-31
John Waite (“Missing You”)

 
 
Walt Disney World Overnight Guests Can Get in the Swing
Of Disney Golf With Special Savings in September
           
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Overnight guests of Walt Disney World Resort hotels have a chance to “test drive” Disney’s four championship golf courses at special savings – and with value-added entitlements exclusively for resort guests – during September.           

Resort guests can play their choice of course from among Disney’s Magnolia, Palm, Osprey Ridge and Lake Buena Vista courses on weekdays for $62 plus tax and on weekends for $69 plus tax.  The price includes greens fees, use of an electric cart, complementary golf clubs and pre-round practice balls plus complimentary transportation between their Disney hotel and the course.  The savings is 30 percent compared to resort guests’ regular rates during September.            

Reservations and additional information about Disney golf are available by calling 407/WDW-GOLF or by logging on to disneygolf.com.  When checking in for rounds, guests must show their Key to the World (hotel ID) to use their complimentary clubs.


There’s a New Way to ‘Chill’ at Disney Water Parks

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Guests at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach always have had a way to beat the heat: by taking the plunge into cooling waters.  Now they also have a means to get out of the sun and just “chill” during a day at the two popular Walt Disney World water parks: Beachcomber Shacks and Polar Patios.

Available for a day-long rental, Shacks and Patios are premium spaces that put a roof or a large umbrella over guests’ heads, provide upscale Adirondack seating for relaxation, put beverages to quench a whole days’ thirsts at guests’ fingertips, and give them a service attendant who does the leg work if they want to purchase food from the a la carte menu.

The spaces – six at Blizzard Beach and seven at Typhoon Lagoon – accommodate six guests each and cost $250 plus tax for the day rental, which includes towels, a locker, all-day drink mugs and an ice chest stocked with bottled water.  Water park admission is not included.  The spaces have been extremely popular and usually sell out within one hour of park opening.  They can be reserved by calling 407/WDW-PLAY.

 
Trio of Disney Running Events Combines Exercise with Fun …
And the Chance to Claim Special Fall Race Challenge Medal
           
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Running enthusiasts can trek the mountains, taste the nations and tame the terror – all at Walt Disney World Resort during September and October.  That’s when a trio of Disney’s Endurance Series events combines healthy exercise with quirky fun – and the chance to claim a special Fall Race Challenge Medal.  Here’s what’s in store:            

Expedition Everest Challenge presented by Champion (Sept. 26) – Just after sunset, teams of two embark to take on the exotic terrain of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park in a competitive 5K run, obstacle course and scavenger hunt with a bonus reward for completing the challenge: an exclusive after-hours party at the park.           

Disney’s Race for the Taste 10K and 3K (Oct. 11) – Participants in the 10K traverse a unique course through Disney’s Hollywood Studios and into the middle of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.  The 3K run/walk is through the heart of the festival at Epcot.  A post-race picnic features food samples from the festival, Disney entertainment, music and games, face painters, kids’ races and an awards ceremony.            

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 13K and 5K (Oct. 24) – The 13K is a one-of-a-kind nighttime run through the deserted streets of Disney’s Hollywood Studios that ends in the shadows of the theme park’s Hollywood Tower Hotel.  The themed race course is a mystery tour with clues appearing along the way.  Following the race, it’s party time!           

Distinctive medals await the finishers of all the races.  But for those who complete the Race for the Taste 10K and either the Expedition Everest Challenge or the Tower of Terror 13K this fall with an official time, there’s also an exclusive Fall Race Challenge bonus medal.           

For additional information and registration, running enthusiasts can visit disneyenduranceseries.com.
 


Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey Begins Search for 2010 Class

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Do you know a high school student who could use some encouragement in their life or a “stimulating push” toward their goals?

Disney’s Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, an event created to inspire and enrich high school students, is accepting nominations for the Class of 2010 between Aug. 25 and Oct. 2, 2009.  Parents, teachers, family and friends can nominate teens – who must be enrolled in high school for the 2009-10 term – for the highly successful event which returns to Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14, 2010.  Students can even nominate themselves.

Although a high GPA is not required, students must exhibit a desire to learn and have big dreams and aspirations, perhaps needing only additional motivational support to excel.  Nomination forms can be found at SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy.

A select panel of judges including national radio personality Steve Harvey, community leaders and Disney representatives will choose 100 finalists who will pack their bags – and their dreams – and head to Walt Disney World Resort, where they will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports and more.  The Disney’s Dreamers Academy Class of 2010 will be announced in November 2009.

 
Disney’s Newest Royalty, Princess Tiana, to Debut at Magic Kingdom

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Starting Oct. 26, Magic Kingdom guests will be treated to first-ever appearances by Princess Tiana, star of the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated feature film “The Princess and the Frog.”

Besides meet and greets with guests, Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and other characters from the motion picture will star in “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!,” a rousing, colorful parade with a jazz-filled Mardi Gras theme.  The good times are guaranteed to roll as festively-dressed, bead-tossing paraders lead Magic Kingdom guests to the Liberty Belle Riverboat dock.

The party moves onboard as the Liberty Belle paddlewheels her way along the river to singing, dancing and all that jazz.  Songs from the film will add to the show, which will be performed 3-4 times daily.

“Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!” also will be performed at Disneyland, beginning Nov. 6.  The experience will run through Jan. 3, 2010, in each park.

Princess Tiana as she will appear in Disney parks was recently sneak-previewed for delegates to the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Tampa.

A hilarious movie adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana, “The Princess and the Frog” will open in limited release in New York and Los Angeles on Nov. 25, 2009, before expanding nationwide on
Dec. 11, 2009.


Guests Enjoy More Flexibility When Booking Resort Stay and Park Tickets Along With a Disney Cruise Line Vacation

CELEBRATION, Fla. – Guests looking to combine a Disney cruise with a stay at Walt Disney World Resort have greater flexibility than ever.  For travel beginning in 2010, Disney Cruise Line guests will enjoy a wide selection of add-on options to complement their cruise experience, including resort stays and theme park tickets, all conveniently booked under one reservation.

For allcruise itineraries originating from Port Canaveral, including 7-night cruises on the Disney Magic, guests have the option to purchase pre- or post-cruise stays at 18 select Walt Disney World Resort hotels – for any length of stay.

Guests will have the option to add a 1- to 5-Day Magic Your Way Ticket with Park Hopper Option, with a one-night minimum Walt Disney World resort stay.

Adding to the hassle-free experience of a Disney Cruise Line vacation, guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel for at least a two-night stay prior to their cruise may check in for their cruise at their hotel.

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean with special voyages to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe in 2010.  To learn more or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500.

 
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Bay Lake Tower Opens Its Doors, Bringing Disney Vacation Club Conveniences to Disney’s Contemporary Resort

August 6, 2009
Filed In Hotels & Resorts
Building on Tradition
 
 
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Nearly 38 years after Disney’s Contemporary Resort opened its doors, its modern Disney Vacation Club addition, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, welcomes guests.  This is the seventh Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property at Walt Disney World Resort.

All 15 stories of the ultra-sleek design continue the original building’s iconic style, which opened with the Magic Kingdom theme park Oct. 1, 1971.  Bay Lake Tower complements and pays homage to Disney’s Contemporary Resort while also offering a variety of new amenities and conveniences – kitchenettes or full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, and other homelike amenities.  In addition, most of the 295 two-bedroom equivalent villas in the crescent-shaped tower offer spectacular views of Bay Lake or Magic Kingdom.

Bay Lake Tower, like all DVC resorts, blends Disney magic with elegant design and premier accommodations.  DVC members – and, based on availability, overnight Walt Disney World guests staying at Bay Lake Tower – can choose from a number of recreation activities and facilities, including a children’s interactive water play area, Bay Cove Pool, a barbeque pavilion, a Community Hall and two nearby tennis courts.

For easy access to Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s restaurants, merchandise shops and the monorail, the Sky Way Bridge takes members and guests from the fifth floor of Bay Lake Tower directly to the fourth floor Grand Canyon Concourse of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The opening of Bay Lake Tower is an exciting chapter in the history of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

“Our resort motto is ‘Where Tradition Touches Today,’ and the marriage of our iconic resort with this elegant new Disney Vacation Club offering is a perfect example,” said Thea Sargent, general manager of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.  “Plus, with all of the enhancements we have made to the resort over the last few years – from costumes and landscaping to restaurants and merchandise locations – we offer our overnight guests and DVC members an unparalleled ‘contemporary’ resort experience.  I think this kind of evolution is exactly what Walt Disney envisioned for our resort.”

Bay Lake Tower is the third Disney Vacation Club offering to open at Walt Disney World Resort this year, following the first phase of Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.

“What excites me most about this tremendous growth is that we’re not only creating new accommodations but new experiences for our Disney Vacation Club members as well as our resort guests,” said DVC President Jim Lewis.  “Each of the projects we’ve undertaken at Disney Vacation Club is unlike anything previously available in our resort portfolio, and Bay Lake Tower proudly builds on that tradition.”

Overnight accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort hotels – including Disney Deluxe Villas– can be arranged by calling 407/W-DISNEY, online at www.disneyworld.com, or through a travel agent.

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Bay Lake Tower Opens Aug. 4, Bringing Disney Vacation Club Conveniences to Disney’s Contemporary Resort

August 5, 2009
Filed In Hotels & Resorts
Building on Tradition
 
 
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Nearly 38 years after Disney’s Contemporary Resort opened its doors, its modern Disney Vacation Club addition, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, began welcoming guests on Aug. 4.  This is the seventh Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property at Walt Disney World Resort.

All 15 stories of the ultra-sleek design continue the original building’s iconic style, which opened with the Magic Kingdom theme park Oct. 1, 1971.  Bay Lake Tower complements and pays homage to Disney’s Contemporary Resort while also offering a variety of new amenities and conveniences – kitchenettes or full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, and other homelike amenities.  In addition, most of the 295 two-bedroom equivalent villas in the crescent-shaped tower offer spectacular views of Bay Lake or Magic Kingdom.

Bay Lake Tower, like all DVC resorts, blends Disney magic with elegant design and premier accommodations.  DVC members – and, based on availability, overnight Walt Disney World guests staying at Bay Lake Tower – can choose from a number of recreation activities and facilities, including a children’s interactive water play area, Bay Cove Pool, a barbeque pavilion, a Community Hall and two nearby tennis courts.

For easy access to Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s restaurants, merchandise shops and the monorail, the Sky Way Bridge takes members and guests from the fifth floor of Bay Lake Tower directly to the fourth floor Grand Canyon Concourse of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The opening of Bay Lake Tower is an exciting chapter in the history of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

“Our resort motto is ‘Where Tradition Touches Today,’ and the marriage of our iconic resort with this elegant new Disney Vacation Club offering is a perfect example,” said Thea Sargent, general manager of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.  “Plus, with all of the enhancements we have made to the resort over the last few years – from costumes and landscaping to restaurants and merchandise locations – we offer our overnight guests and DVC members an unparalleled ‘contemporary’ resort experience.  I think this kind of evolution is exactly what Walt Disney envisioned for our resort.”

Bay Lake Tower is the third Disney Vacation Club offering to open at Walt Disney World Resort this year, following the first phase of Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.

“What excites me most about this tremendous growth is that we’re not only creating new accommodations but new experiences for our Disney Vacation Club members as well as our resort guests,” said DVC President Jim Lewis.  “Each of the projects we’ve undertaken at Disney Vacation Club is unlike anything previously available in our resort portfolio, and Bay Lake Tower proudly builds on that tradition.”

Overnight accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort hotels – including Disney Deluxe Villas– can be arranged by calling 407/W-DISNEY, online at www.disneyworld.com, or through a travel agent.

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Cirque du Soleil Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary This Summer — Florida Residents Can Buy One Ticket to La Nouba and Bring a Friend for $25

August 4, 2009
Filed In Vacation Planning
 

 

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -Cirque du Soleil is offering a special price to Florida residents on tickets to La Nouba in honor of the company’s 25th anniversary.  Between Aug. 18 and Oct. 3, local guests can celebrate this milestone when they buy one ticket to La Nouba, they can bring a friend for $25 (see restrictions).
 
Cirque du Soleil is commemorating its anniversary in 2009 with the theme “the dream continues.”  Since June 16, 1984, this ambitious company has never stopped dreaming, daring, and pushing the limits of the imagination.  There has never been a better time to dream than this summer!
 
On June 16, 2009, La Nouba celebrated the 25th anniversary of Cirque du Soleil with a stilt-walk at Downtown Disney.  More than 1,900 cast, crew and fans participated in their respective simultaneous events around the globe.  The celebrations continue at La Nouba with the recent 5,000th performance, the upcoming 7 millionth guest and the annual ringing-in of the New Year, Cirque-style.  Log onto www.facebook.com/lanouba for additional commemorative activities as they continue throughout the year.
 
TICKET INFORMATION The Florida resident ‘buy one, bring a friend for $25’ offer is valid with the purchase of one regular-price adult Category 2 ticket at $83 (plus tax), and is available at the box office or by calling 407/WDW-SEAT.  This offer is on sale starting Aug. 4 for shows from Aug. 18 through Oct. 3 (there are no performances Sept. 20-28).  The tickets must be purchased in pairs for the same performance.  The discount applies to Category 2 tickets only.  Proof of Florida residency is required.  Tickets are subject to availability and restrictions apply.  This offer is not valid for previously purchased tickets, gift certificates, or with any other discounts.
 
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE  Tuesdays through Saturdays at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.  The theater is dark Sundays and Mondays and Sept. 20 – 28, 2009.  For details, visit CirqueduSoleil.com/LaNouba. 
 
ABOUT CIRQUE DU SOLEIL 
From a group of 20 street performers at its beginning in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a major Quebec-based organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment.  The company has more than 4,000 employees from over 40 different countries, including 1,000 performing artists.  Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to almost 90 million spectators in over 200 cities on five continents.  In 2009, Cirque du Soleil will present 20 shows simultaneously throughout the world.  For more information, visit the Cirque du Soleil Web site at www.cirquedusoleil.com.
 
###
CONTACT
Laura J. Murphy, Publicist
407.934.8117
 
 
 
FLARES25ANN09/8-2-09
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Cirque du Soleil Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary This Summer — Florida Residents Can Buy One Ticket to La Nouba and Bring a Friend for $25

August 4, 2009
Filed In Downtown Disney
 

 

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -Cirque du Soleil is offering a special price to Florida residents on tickets to La Nouba in honor of the company’s 25th anniversary.  Between Aug. 18 and Oct. 3, local guests can celebrate this milestone when they buy one ticket to La Nouba, they can bring a friend for $25 (see restrictions).
 
Cirque du Soleil is commemorating its anniversary in 2009 with the theme “the dream continues.”  Since June 16, 1984, this ambitious company has never stopped dreaming, daring, and pushing the limits of the imagination.  There has never been a better time to dream than this summer!
 
On June 16, 2009, La Nouba celebrated the 25th anniversary of Cirque du Soleil with a stilt-walk at Downtown Disney.  More than 1,900 cast, crew and fans participated in their respective simultaneous events around the globe.  The celebrations continue at La Nouba with the recent 5,000th performance, the upcoming 7 millionth guest and the annual ringing-in of the New Year, Cirque-style.  Log onto www.facebook.com/lanouba for additional commemorative activities as they continue throughout the year.
 
TICKET INFORMATION The Florida resident ‘buy one, bring a friend for $25’ offer is valid with the purchase of one regular-price adult Category 2 ticket at $83 (plus tax), and is available at the box office or by calling 407/WDW-SEAT.  This offer is on sale starting Aug. 4 for shows from Aug. 18 through Oct. 3 (there are no performances Sept. 20-28).  The tickets must be purchased in pairs for the same performance.  The discount applies to Category 2 tickets only.  Proof of Florida residency is required.  Tickets are subject to availability and restrictions apply.  This offer is not valid for previously purchased tickets, gift certificates, or with any other discounts.
 
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE  Tuesdays through Saturdays at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.  The theater is dark Sundays and Mondays and Sept. 20 – 28, 2009.  For details, visit CirqueduSoleil.com/LaNouba. 
 
ABOUT CIRQUE DU SOLEIL 
From a group of 20 street performers at its beginning in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a major Quebec-based organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment.  The company has more than 4,000 employees from over 40 different countries, including 1,000 performing artists.  Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to almost 90 million spectators in over 200 cities on five continents.  In 2009, Cirque du Soleil will present 20 shows simultaneously throughout the world.  For more information, visit the Cirque du Soleil Web site at www.cirquedusoleil.com.
 
###
CONTACT
Laura J. Murphy, Publicist
407.934.8117
 
 
 
FLARES25ANN09/8-2-09
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