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Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights – Secrets and History

Published October 27, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Usually when I tell people I am headed to Hollywood Studios to catch the  Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights, folks will ask, “OZZY Osborne?” I usually just laugh and reply, “no, not those Osbornes.” Although that would be a hilarious twist!

In fact the Osborne families could not be more different. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights started modestly in Arkansas as a single home’s annual display.

osborne

This festive display of lights and sparkling holiday bulbs was designed by Arkansas businessman and philanthropist, Jennings Osborne. This tradition began years ago when Jennings strung 1,000 red lights as a Christmas gift to his daughter, Breezy. Soon, their 22,000 square-foot home was covered in millions of lights.  Every year, Jennings Osborne and his family set up an elaborate collection of holiday lights and over the years, the collection of lights grew, and grew… and grew! In 1995, the Osborne family decided to share their magic with the world, and Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort happily offered to become the new permanent home for this exceptional exhibition of holiday cheer.

Approximately every 10 minutes, the lights “dance” to holiday music, while “Florida snow” falls in the background, making this the perfect Christmas setting. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights is a CAN’T MISS if you will be anywhere near Disney’s Hollywood Studios around Christmas time.

You will want to look for  the infamous mannequin leg lamp from “A Christmas Story” (and check out what show is on the TV!) You’ll also find the more obvious hidden Mickeys at EVERY turn.

There are also surprises that sometimes the cast members are not even aware of! Each year a black cat is hidden somewhere among the lights. The story goes that when the lights were unpacked back in 1995, a Halloween Cat decoration had been mistakenly packed in, and was still used anyway. Each year it gets placed in a different location for guests to hunt. Here are pictures of him from years past so you know what to keep your eyes open for!

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This is NOT your grandmother’s Christmas lights – it may be one of the most amazing things you’ve seen in your life. Come bask in the glow of one of the most popular holiday traditions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Come see the trees, spinning carousels, 3-D and motion-based displays. Delight in the flying angels, toy soldiers and giant Santa Claus light creations all strung along the high-rise backlot cityscape of Streets of America.

The best part?? The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is included with standard admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park! Video does not do it justice but it gives you an idea. Please let me know if you will be coming to see this event!

 

Gather Your Family Around Disney’s Magical Fireplace

Published October 27, 2012 by Disneyways.com

This season, bring home the warmth of Disney’s magical fireplace! Discover hidden Mickeys, see spectacular fireworks, and enjoy lots more surprises…all set to holiday music…including songs sung by your favorite characters!

I have never seen this DVD myslef, but one review I read stated that you can listen to a selection of traditional holiday songs OR enjoy the glow and sounds of a virtual fireplace.  I imagine that children would really enjoy the songs! However,  I think if I were to order it for myself,  I would need the option of shutting the singing off and just hearing the fire. The “special surprises” include the shadows of the characters walking through the flames.

Is it just me or does this remind you of the Bible story about  Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego?

To learn more about the Magical Fireplace DVD, check out the OFFICIAL ad from Disney, and get ordering information click here.

Disney says there are a limited number of videos and they are having a sale on them right now. I would love to hear from someone who actually owns this DVD! If you have one will you share your thoughts?

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Nearly Sold Out! WDW Marathon Weekend

Published October 26, 2012 by Disneyways.com

The Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna will take place January 10-13, 2013. Marathon weekend is reported to have every mile filled with Disney fun.  The running routes  from Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo, through all four Theme Parks, and ends with a medal  featuring Mickey and friends!

Registration is still open for certain events:

· Walt Disney World® Marathon – Sold Out
· Walt Disney World® Half Marathon – Sold Out
· Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge – Sold Out
· Disney Family Fun Run 5K – 73% Full
· runDisney Kids Races – 53% Full
· Pasta in the Park Party

* The marathon relay will not return to the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend in 2013.

— Spectator Information

As a spectator, you play a huge part in supporting your runner by cheering them on and motivating them throughout their training. Below is a guide to help you watch your runner during their magical race at the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend.
The Online Planning Tool is designed for spectators to plan their route along the race course so they can see their runner at key milestones. The ChEAR Squad offers several spectator packages from reserved viewing areas to VIP treatment in the Race Retreat.
Make sure you read the helpful tips on arriving to the race and parking on race day as well as the additional information about viewing your runner in the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks.
ChEAR Squad
Be a part of the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend when you join the CHEAR Squad!
CHEAR Squad packages are available for purchase and include:
· Marathon Weekend E-newsletter containing information for race weekend
· Reserved viewing location at the Finish Line
· Much more!
For package details and to sign up to be a ChEAR Squad member, visit the ChEAR Squadpage in the Event Overview section.

Start Line Viewing: Start line viewing is accessible via the Wonder Lot and does not require a Theme Park ticket. There is no seating at the Start Line for spectators.

Finish Line Viewing: The Finish Line is located in the Imagine Lot of Epcot. Spectators can see their runners at the Finish Line. There will be a limited number of complimentary seats along the Finish Line available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Course Viewing:  Spectators will be able to see their runner run through the Magic Kingdom Park near Cinderella Castle (Mile 5.3 for the Half Marathon). This location will be open at 5:30am. Guests do not need a ticket to enter the Magic Kingdom for course viewing, but to enter the ChEAR Zone area, they will need a ChEAR Zone wristband. A ticket is required once the park opens for the day and standard parking rates apply after 7am.
If Guests want to watch their runner in another Walt Disney World Theme Park, they will need to purchase a Theme Park ticket once that park is open for the day. Standard parking rates apply after 7am. Transportation to these parks is available through the WDW monorail and bus systems.

Runner Tracking: Runner tracking sign-up is available at runDisney.com or by visiting the Expo.

Itinerary

Thursday, January 10, 2013 · 9:00am-7:00pm – Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 3:00pm – runDisney Kids Races – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 4:30pm – Mickey Mile – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 6:30pm – Pasta in the Park Party – Epcot®

Friday, January 11, 2013 · 5:00am-6:00am – Bus transportation (no monorail transportation today) from Resorts to Epcot for Family Fun Run 5K
· 6:30am – Family Fun Run 5K Starts – Epcot
· 9:00am-7:00pm – Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 11:00am – runDisney Kids Races – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 12:30pm – Mickey Mile – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 6:30pm – Pasta in the Park Party – Epcot®
Saturday, January 12, 2013 · 3:00am – Bus/Monorail transportation begins from all Walt Disney World Resorts to Half Marathon start
· 4:00am – Racers should be on the transportation to make it to check-in on time
· 5:00am-7:00am – Transportation to Epcot is suspended due to the race start
· 5:30am – Walt Disney World® Half Marathon Starts – Epcot®
· 10:00am-5:00pm – Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo – ESPN Wide World of Sports
· 12:30pm – Mickey Mile – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 6:30pm – Pasta in the Park Party – Epcot®
Sunday, January 13, 2013 · 3:00am – Bus/Monorail transportation begins from all Walt Disney World Resorts to Marathon start
· 4:00am – Racers should be on the transportation to make it to check-in on time
· 5:00am-7:00am – Transportation to Epcot is suspended due to the race start
· 5:30am – Walt Disney World® Marathon Starts – Epcot®
· 4:00pm-8:00pm – Downtown Disney® After Party

Cinderella’s Makeover

Published October 25, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Cindy has a new hairstyle AND a new dress! Check out the photos and the slideshow below! Are you a fan of her new look?

Join us over at our Princess fan page on facebook by clicking here.

(I do not claim ownership to these photos…)

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New Year’s Eve Events Around Walt Disney World Announced

Published October 19, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Awww Donny – what’s a New Year’s Eve without this song?

What ARE you doing for New Year’s Eve? How about heading to Disney? Hot off the press – Disney World has announced what will be in store for those who are enough lucky enough to be there.
At Epcot, guests can expect music at select pavilions around the World Showcase throughout the evening, plus “IllumiNations: Reflections of the Earth” is scheduled for both 7 p.m. and 11:42 p.m.  Hungry? How about a buffet in the World ShowPlace facility? This dinner will  take inspiration from Disney’s “Fantasia” and “Fantasia 2000” films. We can make reservations to eat dinner during the hours of 4:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. with a cost of $68.87 per adult ($44.37 for kids).

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the landscaper/musicians Mulch, Sweat and Shears will make an appearance in front of the iconic Sorcerer’s Hat on a stage crafted especially for their act. The concert will feature pyrotechnics and will also play during midnight fireworks.

Outside of the main theme parks, DisneyQuest is offering up a cyber celebration from 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. featuring a DJ dance party, character meet and greets, a confetti drop at midnight and unlimited access to DisneyQuest games. Tickets are said to go on sale soon. Spring for the tickets – and you will also get a coupon for a quick service entree, side and drink. Even my husband might be into this idea!!

Some of the resorts, too, are gearing up to help guests celebrate New Year’s with music and entertainment. One example: Narcoosee’s Restaurant within the Grand Floridian has a special four-course dining experience complete with a DJ, a balloon artist and special fireworks viewing; cost is $161.85 for adults ($77.19 for kids).  This one includes guaranteed weight loss afterwards for me. There wouldn’t be any grocery money left for a whole week!

Finally, for those of us wanting to get our groove on and cut a rug in 2013, the Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort is planning a special New Year’s Eve party to take place from 8 p.m. – 2 a.m complete with a video DJ and partial viewing of Epcot’s fireworks. I don’t know what “partial viewing” means…do you? Are we behind a big telephone pole or something?

OK so if you could pick one or more of these events – how would YOU celebrate New Year’s Eve at Disney?

Sorcerers Hat at Disneys Hollywood Studios

Sorcerers Hat at Disneys Hollywood Studios (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Country Bear Jamboree – Revised version October 18th 2012

Published October 18, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Here is a great video of the “new” show. What do you think? 

Thank you MouseSteps.com for being the first to see it and share!

An Imagineer Tour of Be Our Guest Restaurant

Published October 15, 2012 by Disneyways.com

Click here to see the Video!!

We want our MTV – I mean – ECV!

Published October 15, 2012 by Disneyways.com

 

 

Photo credit: Disneyworldbasics.com

The following is an update to the information in this post.  Update posted October 26, 2012:

Walt Disney World Resort has selected five featured vendors that have agreed to rent resort Guests only those Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) that, based on size and speed, have been determined safest for use in the theme parks, resort hotels and transportation system.

Disney will recommend the featured vendors to our Guests and allow them to drop off and pick up their devices at our resort hotels, without the need for Guests to be present. All other vendors will have to arrange drop off and pick up directly with Guests and will not be able to leave the devices unattended.
This process will be implemented across all resort hotels beginning on November 1, 2012.

Begin previous post:

I adore my father-in-law. He smiles when I call him my FAVORITE father-in-law, since he’s the only one I’ve ever had. He really is one of the most terrific people I have ever known. Brilliant business man, cigar aficionado,Yankees fan, lover of all great music – (including Sinatra AND disco!), husband to his wife for over 60 years, embracer of laughter and life…and my favorite thing of all…he is a wonderful adviser and best friend to my husband.

Just like some other seasoned, mature folks however, my favorite father-in-law also happens to have mobility issues.  I love his company and I have wanted to take him to Disney World with me for years. I keep hoping to talk him into it one day. Out of curiosity – I started looking into the options Disney has regarding electric convenience vehicles – or scooters as we locals like to call them. Not that he’d really need or want one – but I thought it would be nice to give him the option.

I am hoping maybe you can benefit from some of my research on the subject. I threw in some wheelchair and stroller information too.

According to Disney,

“ECVs are available only on a same-day basis and may only be used in the Park where they are rented.  ECVs will be held if Guests wish to leave and return to the same Park.  Guests planning to visit more than one Park on the same day should retain their deposit ticket from the first Park they visit.  This will enable them to obtain a replacement wheelchair or ECV on the same day, if available, at the next Park with no additional charge.  NOTE: Wheelchairs or ECVs may not be available at the second Park. NOTE:  Guests must be 18 years of age or older to rent ECVs.  Devices are to be single-rider only. Guest Relations, located inside the Theme parks, provides a variety of services including: general information, priority seating for restaurants, ticket media information, Park guidemaps and entertainment schedules, and information on services for Guests with Disabilities.The Guide for Guests with Disabilities  provides a detailed overview of services and facilities available for Guests with disabilities and is available at Guest Relations locations within all four Parks as well as Guest Services locations at the WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resorts. Requests for brochures prior to a vacation should be sent to the Disney Reservation Center at (407) 934-7639.”

While you wait for your brochure to arrive however, here are some tips to help you start planning. Please keep in mind that in all of these locations – Disney REALLY stresses that vehicles are available on a first come first serve basis and of course – they are not free. For more information, ask for the Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities at any of these locations.

Magic Kingdom 
Wheelchair and ECV rentals are available at the Stroller Shop inside the Magic Kingdom theme park entrance.

Epcot

Wheelchair and ECV rentals are available on the east side of the Epcot theme park Entrance Plaza and at the International Gateway. For more information, ask for the Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities at Guest Relations on the east side of Spaceship Earth.

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

At HS you will want to check with Oscar’s Super Service near the main entrance. Guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios are able to rent strollers (single or double), manual wheelchairs, or electric scooters in this location. Replacement wheelchairs are available at the In Character Costume Shop.

Animal Kingdom

AK has ECV Rentals located  in Garden Gate Gifts near the main entrance. Guests visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park are able to rent strollers (single or double), manual wheelchairs, or electric scooters. Rentals are subject to availability.

Downtown Disney Marketplace Strollers and Wheelchairs

There is information to suggest there may be ECVs to rent, as well as strollers, and wheelchairs, located between Tren-D and Once Upon a Toy near the restrooms. However, when I called Disney, the operator on the line told me they do not rent them there. Not that I doubt – her but I am still curious and want to find out the whole story. I guess I will have to make a research trip myself to find out for sure. Anything for my Disneyways readers! Aw, who am I kidding. It’s all about feeling the wind in my hair on the new Dumbo ride.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks

Wheelchairs are welcome at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and Blizzard Beach; however, they are not available for rent. No ECVs available at either.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
A limited number of wheelchairs (not ECV’s) are available at each Disney Resort Hotel.  A $315 USD deposit will be held on the Guest room account—charged only if the wheelchair is not returned.

Something to keep in mind:

Each of these locations have opening and closing hours that tend to vary, as well as an additional cost for rentals. You will want to check with Disney directly for details.

But what if you are staying at Disney for a whole week or even longer? Well first of all the first call you should make is to ME so I can come along.  LOL

On your next call perhaps, Disney will refer you to the area rental companies such as those listed below.

Apple Scooter

  • Best Price Mobility
  • bpmobility.com
  • 866-866-3434
  • ECVs, powerchairs, wheelchairs
  • Buena Vista Scooter Rentals
  • buenavistascooters.com
  • 866-484-4797 / 407-938-0349
  • ECVs, strollers, wheelchairs, and more
  • CARE Medical Equipment
  • caremedicalequipment.com
  • 1-800-741-2282 / 407-856-2273
  • ECVs, medical equipment, wheelchairs, and more

Another GREAT source of info (and the first place I thought of in my search) is  www.disneyonwheelsblog.com.

You can find a WEALTH of information here, including;

Walt Disney World Guest Assistance Card info

Parade viewing from a wheelchair

Tips for when you make dining reservations

Companion restrooms

And from theinfomouse.com – here are tips on your first visit.

Do you or a loved one have experiences you’d like to share regarding strollers, wheelchairs or ECV rentals at Walt Disney World?

New Fantasyland feature you might not have heard about…

Published October 13, 2012 by Disneyways.com
English: Logo for New Fantasyland -- the expan...

English: Logo for New Fantasyland — the expansion of Fantasyland at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Thank you Disney World – for paying attention. Today there is yet another reason that I think the new Fantasyland will be worth the wait! It looks like the folks at  Walt Disney Imagineering have read our minds and maybe monitored our tweets and facebook requests.  So far we have seen the indoor air-conditioned Dumbo queue, FASTPASS for most attractions, shade trees, wider walkways, and lots of wall-seating throughout Storybook Circus.

That’s all great but what am I MOST excited about?
It seems though that Disney is not quite done yet, and have another trick up their sleeve. The third Big Top in Storybook Circus (the yellow one), along with the new restroom area being built in the former skyway station area, (remember those??)  is expected to feature something known as a ‘D-Zone’. These areas are designed to allow people to relax, take a seat, and to have access to things like ECV charging stations….and a place to -wait for it – CHARGE OUR CELL PHONES. Thank you Imagineers…thank you!!
No longer will I have to be the crazy lady in the park looking everywhere for outlets.  My legs going to sleep from sitting on the ground will be just a memory. October 23rd I get to go to Fantasyland for a sneak preview, and I am so excited I may explode. Blogging and sending you photos from the park will be a breeze if the new D-Zones are ready. Stay tuned to Disneyways!
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New at the Grand Floridian!

Published October 12, 2012 by Disneyways.com
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, seen ...

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, seen from the monorail station at the Magic Kingdom. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

New offerings at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

It’s really hard to pick – but the Grand Floridian may just be my favorite resort. Sure I may look ridiculous, red-faced and sweaty…wearing Mickey ears over my wild blonde hair that’s been frizzed out by the humidity. It really doesn’t matter. When I walk in to the Grand Floridian – I am welcomed by the waft of refreshing A/C, and maybe my friend Christine the harpist playing a beautiful tune. All of a sudden I become a classy, refined, lovely lady from the Victorian Era…well…in my own mind that is.

Could they really make this place any better?

Walt used to say he wanted to “plus” things. He loved taking his work just a step further to really delight Disney guests.  I think it may be in that tradition that the Grand Floridian has added some enhancements recently.

The new Beaches Pool Bar and Grill is an outdoor quick-service location with style. After you place your order at the window, a Cast Member will deliver your made-to-order meal to you. This added convenience allows you to lounge by the pool or watch your children splash in the new water activity play area instead of waiting in line for food. Take THAT Tomorrowland Terrace.

Not just your average pool bar, everything at Beaches is made fresh, completed after you place your order. Looking for an adult beverage? Let’s go visit the pool bar, equipped with a TV, signature drink selections and the option to order food from the grill. Soon, the bar also will offer local and micro brews. Beaches Pool Bar and Grill is open 7 a.m.-11 p.m., offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Times and offerings are subject to change.

Nearby, our kids (48 inches or less) can splash in the new “Alice in Wonderland”–themed water activity play area. This zone, with lifeguards, features a metallic green dump bucket fashioned after the Mad Hatter’s top hat; it pours gallons of water over the jungle-gym structure and children playing on and around it. Two slides, three pull-string sprayers and a shallow pool complete the water wonderland. This area is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m., with operation times changing seasonally.

Perhaps Alice and Wonderland with all her fanciness and Tea over in the Garden View Tea Room (also located in the Grand Floridian) is the one that inspired things to  continue to get “curiouser and curiouser” all through the fall and winter seasons. Soon we will see additional refurbishment of Sandy Cove Gifts & Sundries merchandise location, Gasparilla Grill & Games quick service spot, and the Courtyard Pool.

Pinkies up ladies!! Now if you’ll excuse me – I’ve got to take my refined self to the ladies room and straighten my Mickey ears.

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