PHOTOS: New Dueling Dragons Merchandise Flies Into Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando
Staff Writer
For some, these dragon oriented merchandise might just be really cool. Others might mistake it for the Dragon Challenge merchandise that’s flown out of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. However, this is in fact a callback to one of Islands of Adventure’s original attractions: Dueling Dragons! Dueling Dragons Hoodie – $45.00 The Fire and …
Walt Disney World Scheduling Thousands of Cast Members in Upcoming Weeks for Imminent Reopening
Staff Writer
Union Local 362 leader Eric Clinton has released an update that Walt Disney World will be bringing back thousands of their furloughed Cast Members back in the upcoming weeks. The workers would be returning to old positions and some even being reposition to help cover the lack of college program interns. Starting in June, all …
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth Pyrotechnic Barges from EPCOT Now Up for Auction
Staff Writer
If you’ve ever wanted to own a part of a Disney firework show, now’s your chance. The pyrotechnic barges used for the perimeter fireworks for IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth are currently being auctioned off. According to Twitter user @Traincrossin, the Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers are auctioning off the midi barges used for the perimeter pyrotechnics for …
Land Near Disney’s Animal Kingdom Reportedly Contracted for Resort-Style Development
Staff Writer
It will always be the case that the area surrounding Walt Disney World will be a prime location for business developers, and we have just heard news of plans for a new property development, just west of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. According to Growth Spotter, a development company named Walter Joseph Group, lead by the real …
PHOTOS: Cinderella Castle Makeover, TRON Lightcycle Run Construction Back in Progress at the Magic Kingdom
Kevin Lake
While March 16th, 2020 was certainly one of the most notable dates in Walt Disney World history – the day it closed due to COVID-19 conerns – the following day was also one of significance. That was the day that it was reported that most or all construction projects at Walt Disney World would be …
PHOTOS, VIDEO: Universal Studios Japan Releases Enhanced Safety Guidelines for Visitors Ahead of June 8th Soft Opening
Spencer Lloyd
Earlier this week, Universal Studios Japan became the first major park in Japan to announce its reopening. Soft openings for Osaka Prefecture residents with Annual Passes begin on June 8th, while the park will reopen to Guests in the Kansai region of Japan on June 19th. Since concerns are still high regarding COVID-19 in Japan …
PHOTOS: Monorail Yellow Retired on Tokyo Disney Resort’s Disney Resort Line
Spencer Lloyd
With the announcement last fall that Tokyo Disney Resort’s fleet of monorails on the Disney Resort Line would be replaced with new “Type-C” trains came the inevitability that the old trains would face retirement. And it seems the replacement has claimed its first victim – Monorail Yellow. Let’s take a look! On a trip around …
ParksCenter – Universal Re-Opens, FastPasses Cancelled, and Introducing Disney’s SlowPass? – Ep. 104
Ben
This is ParksCenter. This week, we’ll be covering Universal’s grand re-opening, Disney canceling a bunch of FastPasses and dining reservations, Shanghai’s new virtual queueing system, and more! Want to watch? The video version is embedded below, or check out our audio-only version on iTunes, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, or search for ParksCenter in your favorite podcast app! You …
Walt Disney World Recalls Select Resort Hotel Restaurant Cast Members, Revealing Table Service and Counter Service Venues Likely to Reopen in June 2020
Jessica Figueroa
Local 737 Unite Here has shared that Walt Disney World has started calling workers back to work. Cast Members at the restaurant locations listed below are being called to start work on June 14: This is likely a list of the available restaurants that will be open to guests at Disney Vacation Club resorts and …
REVIEW: Eat the Movies! Universal Studios Florida 30th Anniversary Neon Marquee Donut from Voodoo Doughnut
Jessica Figueroa
On June 7, Universal Studios Florida will be celebrating its grand 30th anniversary. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed riding the movies, saving E.T., and cutting a rug with the Blues Brothers. And today, we got to… taste the movies by way of this incredible-looking new offering from Voodoo Doughnut: The icing-laden treat is a culinary …
PHOTOS: New Face Masks Now Available for Purchase at Reopened House of Blues in Disney Springs
Staff Writer
The House of Blues at Disney Springs has been unusually quiet since COVID-19 came around. The bar and grill section has reopened to guests, but all musical acts have been postponed until July 5, when Gospel Brunch makes a return as the first live entertainment back. However, while waiting to enjoy great music and entertainment, …
TONIGHT: ParksCenter – Universal Re-Opens, FastPasses Cancelled, and Introducing Disney’s SlowPass? – Ep. 104
Ben
Tonight, June 3rd at 9pm Eastern, will be the next edition of WDWNT’s ParksCenter! This week, we’ll be covering Universal’s grand re-opening, Disney canceling a bunch of FastPasses and dining reservations, Shanghai’s new virtual queueing system, and more! Want to watch us record the show live? Tune in tonight at 9pm Eastern on WDWNTunes! Want …
City Works Eatery & Pour House to Reopen at Disney Springs on June 10
Matthew Soberman
The next restaurant at Disney Springs is warming up and about to take the stage. WDWNT has learned that City Works Eatery & Pour House will reopen to guests beginning Wednesday, June 10th. The restaurant, known for its rock and roll-themed dishes and wide variety of beers, closed with all Disney Springs offerings back in …
PHOTOS: Once Upon a Toy Reopens at Disney Springs with New Health and Safety Precautions
Staff Writer
Slowly but surely, Disney Springs has sprung back to life with the reopening of many of their stores. With World of Disney and Marketplace Co-Op reopening last Wednesday, we were given a taste of the Disney merchandise that we had been missing. However, not all of the Disney owned stores reopened then. Today, we were …
PHOTOS: New U•Rest Areas for Removing Face Masks Debut at Universal Orlando Resort
Staff Writer
With Universal Studios Orlando reopening, the Orlando heat decided to come along as well! While practicing social distancing and extra health precautions, wearing a mask all day might start to take a toll on you. To safely allow guests to remove their masks, Universal has set up U-Rest Areas throughout the park for guests to …
PHOTOS: New Universal Studios Florida 30th Anniversary Merchandise Celebrates with Retro Styles
Staff Writer
On June 7, 1990, Universal Studios Florida opened its doors to movie lovers everywhere, allowing guests to “See the Stars, Ride the Movies”! Although it’s seen some changes over the thirty years, Universal Studios has remained a classic and their celebratory merchandise definitely captures that nostalgia feeling, showcasing the best of Universal movies! Universal Studios …
Shanghai Disneyland Introduces “Disney Standby Pass” Virtual Queue System; Full Details Released
Spencer Lloyd
As theme parks adjust to operating in a COVID-19 world, the idea of “virtual queues” is often thrown around, and it seems Shanghai Disneyland has introduced a trial of a new virtual queue system at their park. According to Twitter user @gourmetdyy, Guests wishing to ride The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh must now …
Disney Pledges $5 Million to Nonprofit Organizations, Including $2 Million to the NAACP
Staff Writer
Today, according to CNN reporter Frank Pallotta, Disney has stepped up on their stance against racism and pledged $5 million to support nonprofit organizations that advance social justice. The first organization receiving $2 million is the NAACP. Disney has been vocal lately regarding their stance against racism, stating on various social media platforms the following …
Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Phase Two Reopening for Florida Starting June 5
Staff Writer
With the reopening of Walt Disney World still over a month away, and with Universal Orlando reopening this week, it seems we’re finally seeing progress in the state of Florida when it comes to reopening procedures. Today, Governor Ron DeSantis spoke at Universal Orlando to announce that Florida can advance to Phase Two of reopening …
PHOTOS: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Collector’s Edition 2020 Wand Now Available at Ollivander’s Wand Shop in Universal Studios Florida
Staff Writer
The wand chooses the wizard, but you can choose this limited collector’s edition wand from Ollivander’s Wand Shop at Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida! This magical interactive wand costs $70.00 and is believed to be released as part of a Harry Potter Celebration that occurs at the end of July to celebrate J.K. Rowling’s …
MLS League Reportedly Set to Resume 2020 Season at Walt Disney World
Staff Writer
The Major League Soccer Players Association has today declared plans to resume their 2020 season, following the COVID-19 pandemic disruption. In their statement, the MLSPA explain that this move will grant ‘certainty’ and allow members to ‘move forward and continue to compete in a game they love’. The statement also acknowledges that the future of …
PHOTOS: First Look at New Universal Orlando Theme Park Arrival Experience
Staff Writer
Today is the first day of Annual Passholder previews at Universal Orlando and the crowds are already here in full force to get back into the theme parks! Although there’s new procedures in place to keep guests safe, this doesn’t seem to be stopping the excited crowds that are eager to enter. Team Members are …
PHOTOS: Cinderella Castle Makeover Progress Resumes During Park Closure at the Magic Kingdom
Staff Writer
It was back in February that Walt Disney World announced that the icon of Magic Kingdom – Cinderella Castle – would be receiving a stunning new makeover. In March, work began on painting those blue and gray turrets to a dreamy rose pink hue with gold and deep blue accents, and we were loving monitoring …
PHOTOS: Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites Reopens After COVID-19 Closure
Jessica Figueroa
Once again, we’re delving into Universal Orlando Resort to get a first look at the state of theme parks and resorts in the “post-COVID” world. (Or rather, as close to it as we are at this time.) We’re covering a full stay at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and suites to show you …
Advanced Reservations Now Available for Select Disney Springs Restaurants Through My Disney Experience
Matthew Soberman
With more shops and restaurants reopening, Disney Springs quietly took another step towards normalcy overnight. Added to the advisories on Walt Disney World’s website was this statement: “Select dining locations at Disney Springs are currently accepting reservations.” Previously, all reservations for Disney Springs restaurants were cancelled through the month of June, but six restaurants are …
PHOTOS: New “Love is Universal” and Universal Studios Branded Face Masks Now Available For Purchase at Universal Orlando
Staff Writer
Universal Orlando Resort is set to open to the public on June 5th with a soft opening for Team Members starting yesterday and invited guests (such as Annual Passholders) being granted early access from June 3rd-4th. With the re-opening guidelines enforcing that you must be wearing a mask at all times when walking around Universal …
PHOTOS, VIDEO: Make a Disney VHS Case Pin Book – A Step By Step Guide
Shannen Ace
If you’re a pin collector, I’m sure you’re always looking for new ways to store your pins. One fun craft is to upcycle a VHS case into a pin book! Read our step-by-step instructions below and watch our video to learn how to make a VHS pin book. Supplies: A VHS case (look at your …
PHOTOS: New “Alice in Wonderland” Her Universe Dress Leads Us Down the Rabbit Hole at Disney Springs
Staff Writer
If you’re running late for a very important date, at least you’ll be fashionably late in this new Alice in Wonderland dress from Her Universe and The Dress Shop! This retro-style dress with a sweetheart neckline features a whimsical design that puts you right in Wonderland! The bright colors and satin tie definitely fit the …
PHOTOS: New Minnie Mouse Donut Pool Float Arrives into Disney Springs
Staff Writer
Summer is here, and we’re busy stocking up on Disney merchandise to get us through the season in style. On a recent trip to Disney Springs, we spotted this adorable new pool float, the perfect treat for the hot weather… We can’t tell what’s more exciting about it – the fact that it is instantly-recognisable …
PHOTOS: Even More Rainbow Mickey Merchandise Arrives at Disney Springs in Honor of Pride Month
Staff Writer
There’s even more Rainbow Mickey merchandise arriving at World of Disney to help celebrate Pride month, including this new rainbow rain jacket and Loungefly backpack! Rainbow Disney Collection Disney Parks Rain Jacket for Women – $54.99 This clear rain jacket features a rainbow of Disney Parks icons, such as the castle, Mickey Ears and balloons, …
Anthropologie and Free People Closed Today at Disney Springs in Solidarity with Blackout Tuesday
Staff Writer
Today, many across the world are taking a stand against racial disparities in relation to the murder of George Floyd. A few stores at Disney Springs have participated today in “Blackout Tuesday” to show their solidarity. Anthropologie and Free People both closed their doors today as part of this movement. The shop still had its …
Universal Studios Hollywood Urges Los Angeles County to Allow Reopening by Mid-June and July 1
Staff Writer
Universal Studios Hollywood is urging Los Angeles County officials to allow for reopening between mid-June and July 1. President and Chief Operating Officer of Universal Studios Hollywood, Karen Irwin, has asked the L.A. County Board of Supervisors to allow employees to return to work to prepare for reopening as soon as possible. Irwin believes that …
VIDEO: Universal Orlando Releases “Welcome Back” Video Detailing New Procedures and Safety Guidelines Prior to Reopening
Staff Writer
In anticipation of the Universal Orlando parks reopening on June 5, the resort has released a new video explaining the new guidelines for the parks’ post-COVID-19 operations. The simple, three-minute long video details not just the guidelines guests will have to adhere to, but also the precautions Universal has put in place too. We are …
WDWNT Embarks on EPIC Expansion with Launch of Universal Parks News Today
Tom Corless
On June 7th, 1990, Universal Studios Florida opened its gates to the world. Over the past 30 years, we have battled giant sharks and apes, chased Biff and Dick Dastardly through time and space, gone web-slinging with Spider-Man, and cast many spells in The Wizarding World. We have been invited to “Ride the Movies”, “Escape” …
Pearl Factory Permanently Closing at Disney Springs
Matthew Soberman
With many shops and restaurants reopening at Disney Springs in the last few weeks, it looks like one kiosk has closed its doors permanently. WDWMagic is reporting that the Pearl Factory kiosk, located in the Marketplace section, will not reopen. It has been shuttered since Disney Springs closed back in March. No hours are currently …
PHOTOS: New Minnie Mouse Sequin Loungefly Mini Backpack and Wristlet Sparkle at Disney Springs
Staff Writer
There’s nothing more exciting than seeing new Loungefly bags arrive in stores! There’s always some cute new design that we’re tempted to add to our ever-growing collection! This new Minnie Mouse sequined Loungefly mini-backpack and wristlet is no different! Minnie Mouse Sequined Mini Backpack with Bow by Loungefly – Rainbow – $90.00 This ombre-rainbow sequined …
NBA and Disney Reportedly Agree on Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort to Host Players for Resumed Season
Staff Writer
After speculation on where the NBA would resume their season, and where the teams would stay, it seems that Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort will be the host resort for the players. In a tweet from Keith Smith, Disney and the NBA have agreed that Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort will likely be the primary host resort …
SHOP: New Disney Rainbow Collection Mickey Loungefly Backpack and Dog Tee Parades into shopDisney for Pride Month
Staff Writer
Yesterday we shared some new items from the Disney Rainbow Collection available on shopDisney, however, today it seems the website has added even more accessories to aid you in showing your pride. For those who don’t know June 1st, kicked off Pride Month, and every year Disney goes all out with rainbow merchandise to help …
Disney Cruise Line Cancels Sailings Aboard the Disney Wonder Through September 14, 2020
Staff Writer
Disney Cruise Line is reaching out to guests about cruises aboard the Disney Wonder that are now being canceled through September 14, 2020. The following message has been issued to Disney Cruise Line guests: As you may be aware, the Canadian government recently extended its decision to not allow cruise ships to dock in any …
PHOTOS: New Monorail PEZ Dispenser Display Stand Arrives at Disney Springs
Staff Writer
If you thought PEZ candy dispensers couldn’t get any more whimsical, have we got news for you. Everyone knows that PEZ are the MVP of candy dispensing products, where the cute character dispensers are often more fun than the sugar itself. Now, scratch that, as we’ve found the ultimate new product: an adorable display stand …