Just a Walk in the Park (with ‘Cousin Betty’) at Epcot by Gene Duncan: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

This past weekend we held our annual Disney Trading event at Epcot. Titled “The Florida Project,” the theme was a salute the 40th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort. For three days, guests from around the world spent time making friends and trading pins or Vinylmation figures. We had guests from more than 36 different states and countries like Japan, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia! The event was held inside World ShowPlace pavilion, which was decorated to resemble a Preview Center from the early 1970s. If you were unable to attend this year, here is a brief look at some highlights.

Each year, I’m excited to how the Park Event Operations team will decorate World ShowPlace. Back in August, I gave you a sneak preview of their concepts for the event. I was beyond happy to see the Orange Bird come to life; the standing Orange Bird looked amazing (I wonder if he would fit in my office). The display team also hid several Orange Bird cutouts around the pavilion including one on an actual 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction vehicle.

I spoke with Julie Young, product developer for Disney Pins, about her experience at the event.

“We had a great time with our guests,” exclaimed Julie, who worked in special preview area for upcoming pins throughout the weekend. “I enjoyed having the opportunity to speak directly with fans. For most of the year, we spend our time in a backstage office location. We love seeing the excitement in our guests’ eyes at these events.”

Each year, the pin team hosts a presentation offering a glimpse into future development. This year, the presentation was hosted by Julie and fellow product developer Jeanne Lewis. The image above features only a handful of items shared including a new open edition alphabet series, a pin set coming to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, in October, a new Pin Trading Night collection coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World, and a create-your-own pin display kit.

On Sunday, Vinylmation was in focus with the second annual Vinylmation Showcase. This was a separate ticketed event that featured Vinylmation trading, sneak previews and more. I spoke with Donald Ferro, product developer for Vinylmation, about one of the most exciting things to be announced at the event.

“Since the beginning of August, Vinylmation fans have been asking ‘What is Project Z?’,” explained Donald. “I am thrilled we were finally able to answer that question by revealing a new Vinylmation series that celebrates classic Disney characters from Disney Theme Parks around the world.”

This new mystery series designed by Disney Design Group Artists Thomas Scott and Casey Jones is called “Park Starz” (hence Project “Z”), and it will be released in mid- to late October 2011. Here’s a hint to one of my favorite figures not pictured above – “If we can dream it, we can do it.”

Lastly, we announced the themes for next year’s trading events at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. The details of these events are still being finalized, so please stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog, DisneyPins.com or Vinylmation.com.

Highlights from The Florida Project Event at Epcot by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

These two foes have been arguing over something since the pavilion opened in 1982. What could it be? A stegosaurus is a herbivore, so it can’t be dinner. Perhaps an argument over which attraction is next? Did someone lose the FASTPASS tickets?

You tell me in the comments section below.

Caption This: An Epic Battle at The Universe of Energy Pavilion at Epcot by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Throughout his career, Walt Disney often expressed the pride he had in his country and this certainly shows through today at several attractions and entertainment offerings at Disney Parks. Attractions like Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln at Disneyland park, The Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom Park and The American Adventure at Epcot showcase some of the historic milestones our nation has overcome in the name of liberty.

In honor of Patriot Day, we’d like to present a special performance by the Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps, which celebrates our nation’s quest for freedom at the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot. Here they are performing “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps Offers a Patriotic Tribute at Epcot by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

I’m still in the early stages of deciding which costume I’m wearing for Halloween this year (I need to be something different than a space cowboy). There is someone, however, who already has several costumes options for Halloween – my friend Duffy The Disney Bear. This fall, we are releasing several new pre-dressed bears and costumes for Duffy. I spoke with Monty Maldovan from Disney Design Group about his work on these new items.

“The twelve-inch Halloween pumpkin Duffy was inspired by a costume and a keychain that was released at Tokyo Disney Resort last year,” explained Monty. “We thought it was an adorable design. So we created the pre-dressed Duffy which was something not offered in Japan.”

The Halloween pumpkin Duffy is more than just a new plush bear; the outfit has inspired a new costume and visual overlay for Duffy’s meet-and-greet areas. At Disney California Adventure park, his meet-and-greet area will be turned into Duffy’s Pumpkin Patch starting in mid-September. At Epcot, Duffy’s meet-and-greet area near Mexico Pavilion will be decorated with fall décor starting at the beginning of October. Plus, Duffy will be at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party next to City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A., starting on Sept. 13. He will also make special appearances at the Halloween events in Disneyland park starting at the end of September.

Besides a pumpkin, Duffy has a few more outfits being released in mid- to-late October. One of Monty’s favorites is the Sorcerer Mickey inspired costume for a 17-inch bear.

“I think the Sorcerer outfit is my favorite as it’s super cute,” continued Monty. “I love the way the stars and moon light up when you push a button on the back of his hat. The light up feature is something we have not used before on a Duffy outfit.”

I think my favorite is the aviator costume for a 17-inch Duffy. I admit I had some fun creating the photograph above. Monty explained the outfit was a nod to an area at Disney California Adventure park.

“We have released many outfits that were inspired by Epcot,” said Monty. “We felt it was time to give some love to Disney California Adventure park, specifically the Condor Flats area. The goggles are my favorite feature. I wasn’t sure how they would look when designing the costume, but I’m thrilled how they turned out.”

I wish I owned an airplane. If I did, I would fly to Aulani, the newly-opened Resort and Spa at Ko Olina, Hawai’i, this afternoon! We recently released a pre-dressed, 12-inch bear at the Resort. It’s the only place you can find it and the bear was one of the top items on opening day! Monty used “Duffy blue” for his board shorts and visor but gave them a washed out look (like Duffy had been enjoying the warm Hawai’ian sun and ocean all afternoon).

Since I don’t have an airplane, I will need to settle for my favorite event at Walt Disney World Resort – the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival (oh hurry up September 30 and get here!). For the festival, we will be releasing a 12-inch bear featuring Duffy in a chef outfit.

I would love to see how you are dressing your Duffy for Halloween. Feel free to share photos on Duffy’s official Facebook fan page.

Duffy The Disney Bear is Ready for Halloween at Disney Parks by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

The label is Sogno d’Italia, which translates as “Dream of Italy,” made by Placido in Tuscany and imported by Banfi Vintners.. The light, crisp Pinot Grigio reminds us of pears and flowers. If you prefer a red, sip the drinkable Chianti, with a note of cherries and plums and a hint of spice.

“When we dream of Italy, we dream not only of its noble traditions, but of its appealingly easygoing lifestyle,” said winemaker Paolo Benassi. “These wines embody both of those ideals.” The festival opens Sept. 30 and runs through Nov. 13. If you can’t join us, the wines will still be sold at the Italy shop post-fest. And eventually they’ll be added to wine lists at select Disney restaurants.

Get First Taste of New Wine Exclusively for Disney Parks at This Year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

When it comes to visiting the Walt Disney World Resort during the holiday season, it’s never too early to start planning. That’s especially true in the case of Epcot’s Candlelight Processional, an amazing holiday musical spectacle that features the talents of three choirs, a live orchestra and a celebrity guest narrator that can put anyone in the holiday spirit.

The show is included with park admission, however one of the easiest ways to ensure a seamless Candlelight Processional experience during the busy holiday season is to buy a Candlelight Processional lunch or dinner package. The packages, which are now on sale, include lunch or dinner at an Epcot restaurant, as well as reserved seating at the show and viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth in a special fireworks viewing area.

Like many guests, my family and I have made Candlelight Processional package a regular holiday tradition. Last year it was dinner at Italy Pavilion’s Tutto Italia Ristorante. This year, I’m thinking a meal at Via Napoli, followed by a show narrated by Neil Patrick Harris. Which narrator would you choose?

Schedule & Narrators (subject to change without notice):

• 11/25–11/27 – Mira Sorvino
• 11/28–12/01 – Michael W. Smith
• 12/02–12/03 – Whoopi Goldberg
• 12/04–12/06 – To be announced
• 12/07–12/09 – Isabella Rossellini
• 12/10–12/12 – Neil Patrick Harris
• 12/13–12/15 – To be announced
• 12/16–12/18 – To be announced
• 12/19–12/21 – Trace Adkins
• 12/22–12/24 – Susan Lucci
• 12/25–12/27 – Blair Underwood
• 12/28–12/30 – Marlee Matlin

Book Epcot Candlelight Processional Packages Today by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

This week’s “Caption This!” shot was taken at the opening of The Living Seas at Epcot in 1986.

Now, go ahead and “Caption This!”

Caption This: Mickey Mouse Takes a Dip by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

Ready, set, dial! If you’re hoping to snag tickets for a coveted event at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Tuesday is the opening day for reservations. To secure a spot at special culinary events and experiences, call (407) WDW-FEST (407-939-3378) or visit disneyworld.com/dining. Admission to Epcot is required for many of the events.

Foodies will love the First Bites Opening Reception on Sept. 29, a sneak peek at the food, beverages and entertainment for the festival. Me? I’m looking forward to sugary Sundays – Sweet Sundays in the mornings with a bounteous buffet, sparkling wines and notable chefs showing off signature desserts (like Cake Boss Buddy Valastro’s tiramisu on Oct. 9), and The Discovery of Chocolate on select Sunday afternoons with chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate with paired wines. Or, if you prefer your sweets at the end of the day, check out the “3D” Disney’s Dessert Discovery, lots of sweets with IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth as the finale.

Fantastic cheese seminars, Sunday afternoon wine schools, special eats at the Italy, France and Mexico Pavilions, and over-the-top dinners hosted in Disney resort hotels, it’s a frenzy of delicious food and drink. Paring down is the hard part.

Of course there are plenty of complimentary events too, like this year’s HGTV Home Entertaining Seminars on weekends at the festival center. And we’re happy sipping and strolling around World Showcase at Epcot – go early on a weekday if you want to sidestep the crowds. Our strategy: share and try lots of tastes. We can’t wait to try the jerk-spiced chicken with mango chutney from the new Caribbean marketplace, or the new fried kasseri cheese with honey at the Greece marketplace. And to go back for the lobster and scallop pie at the Ireland marketplace.

For a listing of events, go to Disneyworld.com/foodandwine. The festival runs Sept. 30-Nov. 13.

Do you have a favorite event you’d recommend?

Reservations Open Tuesday for Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Events by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

In this attraction, guests head to the International Space Training Center (ISTC) where they become trainees in a simulation exercise for an upcoming space flight to Mars.

The pre-show is narrated by actor Gary Sinise (“Apollo 13”), who assigns new trainees a specific role to play in the mission, including the parts of navigator, pilot, commander and engineer. Teams then board their simulator and experience the thrill of a countdown and blast off, then work together to control the craft as it rockets around the moon, experiences a period of hypersleep and lands on the Red Planet.

The attraction uses a multiple-arm centrifuge to simulate the illusion of speed and strong gravitational forces. As an astronaut in training, you are given the choice to be a part of the Orange Team or the Green Team. For guests who are sensitive to strong motion, they may choose to join the Green Team for a gentler experience.

So which team do you join? The Orange Team or the Green Team?

Today in Disney History: Test Flights Begin at Mission: SPACE by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog