MagicBand+ Debuts at Disneyland Resort on Oct. 26, 2022

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

MagicBand+ will make its momentous West Coast debut when it launches at the Disneyland Resort on Oct. 26, 2022. This marks a huge milestone in resort history, as Guests will soon discover for the very first time how this wearable technology will enhance their experience and unlock a new dimension of Disney storytelling at the Happiest Place on Earth.

Eligible Cast members, Magic Key holders and Disney Vacation Club members will have the opportunity to be among the first to purchase MagicBand+ at the Disneyland Resort from select locations and get a first look at its features before the official launch! Starting Oct. 19, select merchandise locations around the Disneyland Resort will have MagicBand+ available for purchase with the presentation of a valid photo ID plus a valid company-issued ID, Disney Vacation Club membership or Magic Key pass. From there, Guests will be able to set up their band and try it out in the parks (valid park admission and reservation required)!

Hands-free convenience and enhanced park experiences

We previously shared how the easy-to-use features of MagicBand+ will provide seamless and hands-free convenience during your visit. With a tap of their band, Guests will be able to enter the Disneyland Resort theme parks (valid park admission and reservation required), easily check in at Lightning Lane entrances (separate Lightning Lane entry required) and link photos from a Disney PhotoPass photographer to their Disney account.

MagicBand+ will also unlock a new dimension of Disney storytelling, coming alive with color-changing LED lights and haptic vibrations during select park experiences and entertainment. For example, Guests may discover MagicBand+ adding surprising and magical touches to certain entertainment at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Park!

At night, MagicBand+ will dazzle along with nighttime spectaculars as it illuminates and pulses in sync to special moments during “World of Color” in Disney California Adventure Park, “Fantasmic!” in Disneyland Park and other select nighttime shows throughout the year. MagicBand+ will also interact with the two recently announced nighttime spectaculars debuting on January 27, 2023 as part of the Disney 100 Years of Wonder anniversary celebration: “World of Color – One” at Disney California Adventure and “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland.

At Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland, Guests will be able to use MagicBand+ to seek virtual bounties hidden across Black Spire Outpost in the Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters interactive quest. Then, when they find their bounty, they can use the Play Disney Parks app’s augmented reality thermal viewer to reveal who’s hiding in the shadows.

Guests can use MagicBand+ at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, with varying features and experiences between the two destinations . All these features are just the beginning of the fun at the Disneyland Resort – more MagicBand+ innovations and experiences will be introduced in the future.

Stylish assortment of collectible designs

Beginning Oct. 26, MagicBand+ will be available for all Guests to purchase at the following locations:

  • Downtown Disney District: World of Disney, Disney’s Pin Traders
  • Disneyland Park: Emporium, Pioneer Mercantile, TomorrowLanding (reopening Oct. 26)
  • Disney California Adventure Park: Elias & Co., Trolley Treats, Oswald’s, Seaside Souvenirs
  • Hotels of the Disneyland Resort: Disney’s Fantasia Shop, Mickey in Paradise, Acorns Gifts & Goods

Both kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy wearing and collecting MagicBand+! It’s size adjustable, and an impressive selection of more than 18 colors and designs will be available at launch, including five prints exclusive to Disneyland Resort. More options featuring favorite Disney characters and stories will continually be added – be on the lookout! While supplies last, Magic Key holders will be able to purchase a specially designed Magic Key band, which even has a unique light-up sequence.   

Easy to use, customizable settings and rechargeable battery

Once MagicBand+ is in hand, follow these three simple steps to set it up:

Step 1: Power on MagicBand+ by pressing on the button on the back once and tap the band to the back of your phone.

Step 2: Guests will be directed to open or download the Disneyland app.*

Step 3: Follow the instructions in the Disneyland app to link the MagicBand+ to their Disney account, assign it to their ticket or pass and pair it to their smartphone.

For Guests to enjoy all the available features of MagicBand+, they’ll need a Disney account and the Disneyland app. For more information, visit Disneyland.com or ask a question using the Chat with Us feature on the Disneyland app.

MagicBand+ is also rechargeable, so Guests can use it again and again each time they visit. We recommend charging it overnight with the included USB charging cable, and once fully charged, they can power it off until they’re ready to use it again. Depending on their use, a fully charged battery on MagicBand+ can last between one to three days. For all the Grizzly River Run fans, don’t worry about MagicBand+ getting wet – it’s waterproof!

We’re thrilled to launch MagicBand+ at the Disneyland Resort and cannot wait for Guests to experience the magic when this next-generation technology launches later this month!

Both a Theme Park reservation and valid admission for the same Park on the same date are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability, and are not guaranteed. Offerings may be limited in availability, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Lightning Lane entrance arrival windows require a separate purchase. Visit Disneyland.com/Updates for important information to know before visiting.

Online registration and Disney account required to use MagicBand+ and Disney Photopass® service. Disney Photopass® service is subject to the Disney Photopass Terms & Conditions and expiration policy found at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/.  MagicBand and MagicBand 2 will not be supported at Disneyland Resort at this time.

*Message, data and roaming rates may apply for use of Disneyland app and Play Disney Parks app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first.

Woman Shoves Chewbacca, Forcing Character to Leave

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Hollywood Studios

For many people, one of the highlights of a trip to Walt Disney World Resort is all the fun characters that they can meet at Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood, Studios, and Disney Resort hotels. Not only can you meet classic characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, but you can also head to places like ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village to meet Lilo and Stitch or to Galaxy’s Edge to meet Star Wars characters like Kylo Ren, Rey, and Chewbacca.

Even though seeing one of your favorite Disney characters brought to life is an exciting experience, most people know how to act appropriately and control themselves. When they see the character, they get in line, then hug and spend time with the character when it is their turn. Simple.

Now, there are some times when characters don’t set up in a certain place at a certain time. Instead, they walk around greeting Guests. One place where this happens frequently is Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Galaxy’s Edge transports Guests to the planet of Batuu, which is a completely immersive place. To keep things realistic, iconic characters are frequently seen walking around instead of just posing for meet-and-greets.

Recently, young Guests visiting Galaxy’s Edge were having a fun interaction with Rey and Chewbacca. Rey was talking to the kids as Chewbacca looked on when someone unexpected and completely against Disney policy happened.

A Guest was recording, and a woman can be seen sneaking up behind Chewbacca. The woman then yells and shoves Chewbacca — seemingly trying to startle him. Both the Cast Member playing Rey and the Cast Member playing Chewbacca were shocked. They immediately stopped what they were doing and Rey said, “because of that, we might have to leave the area”. They then walked away, leaving the kids confused as to what had happened.

You can watch the video of the incident below:

@nightmareadventures

Don’t be that adult that ruins a nice interaction between kids and characters because you think you’re being funny. #starwars #starwarsgalaxysedge #chewbacca #chewie #rey #reyskywalker #disneyhollywoodstudios #disneyhollywoodstudiosorlando #disneysgalaxysedge #maytheforcebewithyou #dontbeajerk #disneycharacterinteractions #disneycharacters

♬ original sound – Maria -Travel•Food•Theme Parks

Many people who commented on the video were 1) angry and 2) quick to point out that what the woman did could end up getting her banned from the Parks if Disney finds out who she is.

Walt Disney World Resort has the following policy stated on the Property Rules section of its website:

Please show common courtesy to fellow Guests and our Cast Members by not using profanity or engaging in unsafe, illegal, disruptive or offensive behavior, jumping lines or saving places in lines for others. For your safety and the safety of others, please refrain from running except in designated areas.

Galaxy's Edge

After the woman touched the Cast Member and is walking away, it appears that a Cast Member can be seen gesturing her away from Chewie and Rey, but it is unknown if the Guest was disciplined for her actions.

Famed Actress Angela Lansbury Passes Away at the Age of 96

Posted on by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

Angela Lansbury, the London-born actress best known for her role as novelist Jessica Fletcher on CBS’s Murder, She Wrote, and for her role in some of Disney’s classics films, passed away on Tuesday. She was 96.

Lansbury worked as an actress for more than seven decades and brought a presence all her own to the screen, to the stage, and to television.

People Magazine obtained a statement from her family, announcing her passing:

“The children of Dame Angela Lansbury are sad to announce that their mother died peacefully in her sleep at home in Los Angeles at 1:30 a.m. today, Tuesday, October 11, 2022, just five days shy of her 97th birthday.

In addition to her three children, Anthony, Deirdre, and David, she is survived by three grandchildren, Peter, Katherine, and Ian, plus five great-grandchildren and her brother, producer Edgar Lansbury. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Peter Shaw. A private family ceremony will be held at a date to be determined.”

Being Mrs. Potts - YouTube

She was born Angela Brigid Lansbury, the daughter of actress Moyna MacGill and lumber merchant Edgar Lansbury. She always described her mother as “a true Irish beauty.”

Lansbury’s mother took Angela to plays at London’s Old Vic and enrolled her in a school for dance and the arts until the family’s finances no longer allowed for it following the death of her father when Angela was only 9 years old.

Angela Lansbury versus the Nazis – Avidly

For Disney, Angela Lansbury played several roles. Per Disney Fandom:

Dame Angela Brigid Lansbury, DBE was a British-Irish actress and singer, who is best known for her role as a mystery writer and detective Jessica Fletcher in the TV series Murder, She Wrote. For Disney, she played Miss Eglantine Price in Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and voiced Mrs. Potts in the Beauty and the Beast franchise. She also played The Balloon Lady in Mary Poppins Returns.

Sneak Peek at EPCOT’s 2022 Holiday Kitchens

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks

EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays is right around the corner, and we have some exciting news to share! The Holiday Kitchens for 2022 have been announced! EPCOT festivals are famous for their food booths, and while this one has more to do than just food, the food certainly is a standout! The exact menus haven’t been announced yet, but the sneak peek gives us much to be excited about! Many fan favorites are returning this year, and we hope they’ll bring the dishes we’ve all come to know and love with them. New this year is a kitchen that will be entirely plant-based! Curious as to what to expect? Take a look below: 

  • American Holiday Table – American Adventure Pavilion.                          Enjoy a seasonal salute—dig into traditional dishes reminiscent of grandma’s cooking at the American Adventure Pavilion.
  • Bavaria Holiday Kitchen – Germany Pavilion.                                 Willkommen—help yourself to heartwarming holiday dishes and refreshing beverages at the Germany Pavilion.
  • Chestnuts & Good Cheer Holiday Kitchen – Near Test Track Presented by Chevrolet.                                                Join in on the festivities when you visit this new location offering cinnamon-glazed nuts and holiday beverages.
  • The Donut Box – Near Test Track Presented by Chevrolet.                   Enjoy a classic dessert dressed up in a little holiday cheer when you try one of our seasonally-themed donuts!
  • Holiday Hearth Desserts – The Odyssey Pavilion.                                      Discover the hearth you’ll call home, with holly jolly desserts, hot cocoa and so much more.
  • Holiday Sweets & Treats – Near Port of Entry.                                                      Rock around the Christmas tree with tasty desserts and festive sips sure to top the “nice” list.
  • L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen – Between Morocco and France Pavilions.    Propose a toast to life—sink your teeth into classic deli noshes with a side of New York flair.
  • Las Posadas Holiday Kitchen – Mexico Pavilion.                                        Feliz Navidad—celebrate with mariachi dancing and south-of-the-border fare at the Mexico Pavilion!
  • Le Marché de Noël Holiday Kitchen – France Pavilion.                                  Feast on très magnifique fare, wine and specialty cocktails from the France Pavilion.
  • Mele Kalikimaka – Near Port of Entry.                                                   Savor the flavor of fabulous, festive food and beverages from the islands of Hawai‘i.
  • Nochebuena Cocina – Near Port of Entry – NEW!                                   Delight in a delicious plant-based offering while celebrating the happiest season of the year!
  • Shanghai Holiday Kitchen – China Pavilion.                                               Have yourself a merry little meal—tempt taste buds with popular plates and potables from the China Pavilion! 
  • Shi Wasu Holiday Kitchen – Japan Pavilion.                                             Please your palate with an array of festive dishes and drinks served at the Japan Pavilion.
  • Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina – Morocco Pavilion                    Travel to the Morocco Pavilion for delicious kebabs and cocktails.
  • Tuscany Holiday Kitchen – Italy Pavilion.                                       Mangiare—savor a seasonal take on some of the world’s best-loved food and beverages at the Italy Pavilion!
  • Yukon Holiday Kitchen – Canada Pavilion.                                              Jingle your bells with delightful dishes and libations from the Great White North—at the Canada Pavilion.
Epcot holiday kitchens

The delicious food at this festival always brings to mind the holidays, and this year promises to be no different. From classic holiday fare to more adventurous bites, you won’t want to miss EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays!

Edible Orlando Field to Feast Dinner with Disney Chefs

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks

Walt Disney World has a strong commitment and involvement in its community, and once again, this year, Disney is offering a chance for guests to enjoy a fantastic dinner, all while supporting an important charity.

Edible Orlando Field to Feast Dinner

The 8th Annual Edible Orlando Field to Feast Dinner featuring the Walt Disney World chefs will be November 5 at Long & Scott Farms in Mt. Dora. The event features locally sourced dishes by Walt Disney World chefs with wine, beer, and cocktail pairings by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. All proceeds benefit the Kids Café Program of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

Event Time – An Afternoon of Amazing Food and Beverages

The reception is 2:30-3 p.m., with culinary stations from 3-5:30 p.m.  Disney culinary stars from all around the Kingdom include: Cinderella’s Royal Table (Magic Kingdom Park), Tiffins, (Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park), Sanaa (Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge) Cítricos (Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa), The Hollywood Brown Derby (Disney’s Hollywood Studios), Flying Fish (Disney’s BoardWalk), Amorette’s Patisserie (Disney Springs), Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Disney’s Riviera Resort), Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Bakery, EPCOT Festivals and Global Catered Events. Each dish will be paired with wines selected by Master Sommelier George Miliotes, proprietor of Wine Bar George at Disney Springs.

More Fun for Guests

A raffle, live music by Blender, and farm tours in a hay wagon are part of the fun. Meet the Scott family, fourth-generation farmers and the only farm still harvesting the famous Zellwood sweet corn.

Tickets Available Now

The dinner is sponsored by Walt Disney World Resort and Edible Orlando magazine. Cost is $195; tickets available via this link.

Past Event Menu

Here is a look at the event menu from the previous year to get an idea of some of the delicious food available.

Cinderella’s Royal Table: Hay-smoked Tri-Tip Tacos with Avocado Mousse, Roasted Corn Salsa, Pico de Gallo, and House Made Hot Sauce

Tiffins: Merguez-stuffed Dates wrapped in Bacon with Hummus, Golden Raisins, and Harissa Vinaigrette served with Pappadum and Methi Paratha bread 

EPCOT Festivals: Duck & Dumplings – Carved Duck Breast, Celeriac Cream, Ricotta Dumplings, Baby Vegetables, and Duck Jus 

The Hollywood Brown Derby: Spruce-crusted Bison Tenderloin with Smoked Corn Spoon Bread and Short Rib Jam served with House Pickles

Cítricos: Grilled Florida Fish al Pibli, Anson Mils Cream Grits, Huitlacoche, Green Piian. and Pickled Red Onions

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Rivera: Prawn Raviolo with Shellfish Jus

Global Catered Events: Kamado Grilled Beef Tender, Vegetable Ash Goat Cheese infused Geechie Boy Grits, Fall Harvest Black-eyed Pea Succotash, and Collard Greens Chimichurri

Flying Fish: Scallop Takoyaki

Sanaa: Peri Peri Shrimp with Sticky Rice, Green Papaya Ketchup, Smoked Tomato, and Charred Corn Kachumbari 

Disney’s Port Orleans Bakery: Mickey Beignets with Salted Caramel Sauce, Long & Scott Farm Berry Compote, and Micro Basil

Amorette’s Patisserie: Garden Harvest – Superfood Mousse with Purple Cabbage Cake and Candied Tomatoes