Following the closure of Star Wars: Galatic Starcruiser, Disney continues looking at ways to appeal to Star Wars fans by creating unique experiences throughout Disney Parks. Starting this month, Disney is bringing one new experience to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Trips to Walt Disney World are full of magical moments. These special moments happen daily at Walt Disney World, from the first time seeing Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom to the screams of excitement on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
Guests looking to capture those special moments with their loved ones can do so through Disney’s Capture Your Moment service. Capture Your Moment is a 20-minute photo session with a Disney Photopass Photographer.
During their photo session, the trained photographers take guests around Disney Park and capture magical moments. Star Wars fans will be thrilled to learn that they will soon be able to capture magical moments throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
On January 17, guests can book a Capture Your Moment session specifically forStar Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for a session beginning on Janurary 24. Sessions cost $99 for 20 minutes; however, guests can book back-to-back sessions for longer experiences.
Oustanding professional pictures will be able to be taken in front of the Millennium Falcon, First Order Shuttle, at the Black Spire Outpost, or among the other unique backdrops that make Batuu so special.
Not only will guests be able to enjoy a private photography session in this extraordinary land at Walt Disney World, but the photographers will also have props such as lightsabers for guests to use during their session. These props will take these photos to the next level.
Guests can book Capture Your Moment sessions 60 days in advance. This is highly recommended, as spots are limited.
Capture Your Moment sessions are also available at Magic Kingdom, throughout World Showcase in EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Toy Story Land, Hollywood Boulevard, and Sunset Boulevard.
When booking your session, remember that the $99 does not include the cost of the pictures. Guests booking a Capture Your Moment session should also include Disney’s Memory Maker in their Walt Disney World vacation package. All of their pictures throughout their vacation, along with those taken during their private session, will be included with the purchase of Memory Maker.
Capture Your Moment is a beautiful way to add extra magic to your trip. Get those outfits ready and book your next Walt Disney World vacation session.
Emma Stone is a renowned American actress who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. Born as Emily Jean Stone on November 6, 1988, in Scottsdale, Arizona, she rose to prominence for her exceptional talent and captivating on-screen presence. Emma Stone has showcased her versatility by portraying a wide range of characters in various film genres.
From comedies like Easy A (2010) and House Bunny (2008) to critically acclaimed dramas like La La Land (2016) and Birdman (2014), Stone has proven herself to be an exceptional actress capable of bringing depth and authenticity to her roles.
Her remarkable performances have earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in La La Land alongside Ryan Gosling. Emma Stone’s incredible talent, charisma, and dedication to her craft have cemented her status as one of the most respected and sought-after actresses in Hollywood.
When it comes to Disney, the Zombieland (2009) and Superbad (2007) actress made waves in 2021 when she brought one of the most iconic Disney villains to life in a live-action remake of Cruella.
In 2021, while box offices reeled from shutdowns the year before due to COVID-19, the close friend of popstar Taylor Swift gave Disney fans one of the most memorable live-action performances of all time.
Emma Stone’s performance in Cruella is well worth mentioning. Playing the iconic villainess Cruella de Vil from Disney’s 101 Dalmations (1961), Stone delivers a captivating and mesmerizing portrayal. Directed by Craig Gillespie, this live-action prequel showcases Stone’s versatility and range as an actress.
Disney’s live-action remakes have had a mixed track record, with many claiming that they fail to capture the magic of their animated counterparts. However, amidst these disappointments, there is one film not named The Lion King (2019) that stands out from the rest – Cruella.
Starring the talented Emma Stone, Cruella not only breaks the curse of Disney’s live-action remakes but shines as a captivating and unique interpretation of a beloved character.
Despite exhaustion over forward-thinking live-action remakes surrounded by controversy, Disney doesn’t seem to have any plans to slow down. The latest news surrounding live-action remakes mostly centers around Rachel Zegler, also loosely associated with Taylor Swift, who will be bringing the first Disney Princess, Snow White, to life down the road.
However, although fatigue has set in for those live-action films, fans of the first Cruella should be excited as Stone let slip that work on a sequel in underway. Recently, at an event for her latest film, Poor Things, Stone discussed working with fellow co-stars Mark Ruffalo and Willem Dafoe.
Emma Stone, who plays reanimated corpse Bella Baxter in Poor Things, briefly discussed the current state of what’s next for her career, highlighting comments regarding the production of Cruella 2. Emma The Los Angeles star explained to Variety Fair that the Cruella sequel is currently a “work in progress” and should begin shooting “sooner rather than later.”
Decoding when Disney movie-goers or Disney+ subscribers can look forward to seeing Emma Stone bring our favorite fashionista back to live-action is a tough task. As Disney has announced a slate of live-action remakes over the next few years, potentially including Bambi, Hercules, and Lilo & Stitch, a Cruella sequel feels far off.
We know guests have been itching for an update on Country Bear Musical Jamboree and more coming to Walt Disney World’s Frontierland in 2024 and beyond. So saddle up and let’s get started!
Country Bear Musical Jamboree
Get ready to knee slap and toe tap to a little country twang this summer!
If guests have been too busy trottin’ through the wild west and have missed the news, the Country Bears are getting ready to put on a new show that pays homage to the Opry style shows of Nashville. While the Country Bear Musical Jamboree will include Easter eggs from the beginning to the end including a familiar tune fans may remember, the bears will sing new, reinterpreted Disney tunes in different genres of country music – like bluegrass, pop-country, Americana, rockabilly and other styles. Here’s a look at one of the clips we shared at Destination D23.
To prepare for the show, Country Bear Jamboree will close temporarily beginning January 27 and will reopen later this summer.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Another attraction a little down yonder in Frontierland is also being reimagined, with incredible detail going into this all-new experience.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take guests on a musical adventure inspired by the beloved story and characters from the fan-favorite film. Picking up where the film left off, guests will join Princess Tiana, jazz-loving alligator Louis and others on an adventure through the bayou as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration where everyone is welcome.
Guests may have seen the custom handcrafted weathervane by Louisiana’s master blacksmith, Darryl Reeves, now visible to anyone strolling past Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom.
When guests visit Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, we want them to feel like they are taking a trip down the Louisiana Bayou in a way only Disney can bring to life. The weathervane does just that, and its installation is another important milestone Cast Members and Imagineers are celebrating ahead of the new adventure opening for our guests later this year.
Keep an eye on Disney Travel News as we introduce all the “bayou”-tiful details for this attraction, from new critters to the catchy New Orleans-inspired tunes.
And hold those horses, we’re not done yet. We have a lot of growth and investment planned for our theme parks in the coming years and look forward to sharing more announcements about Frontierland… so y’all come back now, ya hear?
That memorable line was sung by Glynis Johns in Disney’s iconic 1964 film, Mary Poppins. In the film, Ms. Johns played Mrs. Winifred Banks, the loveable and feisty wife of the uptight banker, George Banks, and mother to Jane and Michael Banks. Throughout the film, Mrs. Banks goes along with what her husband says, but is always fighting for women to have more rights, especially when it comes to voting.
Sadly, we have just learned that Ms. Johns has passed away at the age of 100. According to her manager, Johns died of natural causes at the assisted living facility she was at in North Hollywood, California.
Mary Poppins was not the only time that Johns worked with Disney. She also starred as Mary Tudor in the 1953 Disney film, The Sword and the Rose. That same year, she appeared as Helen Mary MacPherson MacGregor in Rob Roy: The Highland Rogue.
Glynis Johns was the first Disney Legend to reach the age of 100, and is still the only Disney Legend to do so. The second — and with Johns’ passing — the oldest living Disney Legend is Johns’ Mary Poppins co-star, Dick Van Dyke. Van Dyke turned 98 years old on December 13. In Mary Poppins, Van Dyke starred as Bert the chimney sweep.
Glynis Margaret Payne Johns was born in Pretoria, South Africa on October 5, 1923. Johns was born into a very theatrical family — her mother was a renowned violinist and her father was a well-respected actor.
In addition to being a very talented actress, Johns was also an incredible dancer. Before she was even eleven years old, Ms. Johns had amassed dozens of gold medals from dance competitions. She even had a degree to teach ballet by the age of 10 — yes, 10! She gained national recognition when she starred as Peter Pan in the stage adaptation.
Johns was selected for the role of Mrs. Banks by Walt Disney himself, a decision he was praised for. Film critic Leonard Maltin said that Johns’ “lights up the screen.” and “makes every minute count.”
Johns turned 100 back in October and, when asked about what it was like to celebrate such a milestone birthday, she gave what may be one of the cheekiest responses possible. She said, “It doesn’t make any difference to me. I’ve looked good at every age.”
Happy New Year! This year, more than ever, we’re bringing your favorite stories to life in fun, innovative ways at our theme parks and resorts, on our cruise ships and through our amazing products and experiences around the world. From Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the launch of the new Disney Treasure cruise ship, to the first-of-its-kind Pixar Place Hotel and other highly anticipated experiences, here are some sensational things to look forward to in 2024:
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort
In 2024, the all-new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open at Disneyland park at Disneyland Resort and Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.
This attraction brings guests into Princess Tiana’s world like never before on a musical journey inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “The Princess and the Frog.”
When the attraction opens, guests will join Princess Tiana, Naveen and jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration. Along the way, they’ll see familiar faces, make new friends and travel through the bayou to original music inspired by songs from the film as they are brought into the next chapter of Tiana’s story.
New Star Tours Attraction Characters, Stories
Star Wars was a favorite topic with Blog readers last year – so, I’m sure many guests are as excited as we are that Star Tours – The Adventures Continue is adding more stories and characters in 2024 at Disneyland Park in California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.
Also, from April 5 – June 2, Season of the Force will arrive at Disneyland Park with Hyperspace Mountain and special merchandise, themed food and beverage and more. Plus, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will give a fresh perspective on the fireworks above Disneyland Park with galactic music sweeping through the spires!
Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort
Pixar Fest is returning to Disneyland Resort from April 26 through Aug. 4, celebrating friendship and beyond with colorful décor, themed entertainment and more. Here’s a sneak peek of an all-new sculpture featuring Pixar pals like Woody and Buzz that you’ll be able to snap a photo in front of at Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland Park when the celebration begins!
This festival is highlighted by heartwarming entertainment featuring favorite Pixar stories. An all-new daytime parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” will debut at Disney California Adventure Park, and at Disneyland Park, the emotional “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” returns with some all-new scenes, including one with Mei Lee and her friends from “Turning Red.”
During the celebration, guests may also encounter new characters such as Ember and Wade from “Elemental” and more.
Pixar-Themed Hotel at Disneyland Resort
Also at Disneyland Resort, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will officially transform into Pixar Place Hotel on Jan. 30, becoming the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the United States.
The 15-story hotel overlooking Disney California Adventure park will offer guest rooms inspired by the artistry of Pixar, new dining from Great Maple restaurant, a rooftop pool area, play court and more.
“Fantasmic!” Returns to Disneyland Park
On May 24, “Fantasmic!” will once again illuminate the Rivers of America in Disneyland park, featuring new special effects, a thrilling new battle scene between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent, plus the return of the iconic “Peter Pan” scene.
If guests haven’t experienced it, “Fantasmic!” is an emotional extravaganza where fantastic events and images from Disney stories come to life through soaring music, dozens of live performers, character appearances and state-of-the-art pro
CommuniCore Plaza, CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT
At Walt Disney World Resort, CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza will be completed in 2024 as part of the multiyear transformation of EPCOT.
These new spaces extend the EPCOT festivals beyond World Showcase and provide a new home for additional exhibits and entertainment, offering the perfect space to gather with family and friends.
Reimagined “The Little Mermaid” Show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
In 2024, an all-new theatrical production inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic “The Little Mermaid” is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The reimagined show will feature stunning set pieces, cutting-edge effects and a bold new design aesthetic that captures Ariel’s imagination and emotions through her unique view of the world around her. More to come in 2024!
All-Day Park Hopping, Dining Plan at Disney World
Beginning Jan. 9, guests at Disney World with a ticket with Park Hopper benefits or an Annual Pass will be able to once again visit another theme park at ANY TIME OF DAY during park hours (subject to capacity limitations).
Also, as part of our updates to improve the guest experience at Disney World, Disney dining plans will be coming back as an option for those staying at Disney Resort hotels who purchase a vacation package with us starting with stays beginning Jan. 9. Guests will be able to choose from two popular options: Packages that include either the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan.
Country Bear Jamboree at Walt Disney World Resort
This year, the Country Bears will debut new songs and a new act that pays homage to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.
The Country Bear Jamboree will still have the same fun and friendly tone guests enjoy and it’ll introduce reinterpreted Disney songs in different genres of country music – like rockabilly, bluegrass, pop-country and other styles.
Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s Boardwalk
The Cake Bake Shop, a whimsical table service restaurant and bakery with French flair, will be opening at Disney’s BoardWalk at Disney World in early 2024.
If guests haven’t heard, The Cake Bake Shop has counters lined with beautifully displayed handmade cakes, cookies, French macarons, brownies, dessert bars, pies and cheesecakes. Other locations have become known destinations for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, weddings, or for spending time with family and friends.
runDisney Returns to Disneyland Resort, Plus a New Halloween-themed Event
runDisney returns to Disneyland Resort Jan. 11-14 with the sold-out Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, featuring four days of exciting events.
Later in the year, runDisney haunts will make their way to The Happiest Place on Earth for a grim-grinning good time during the 2024 Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend.
Taking place Sept. 5-8, there will be four days of events, including yoga, Kids Races, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Challenge, all themed to the 2024 Halloween season. Visit runDisney.com for more details.
Disney Treasure
Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Treasure, will debut in December 2024.
As guests have probably seen, this amazing ship will bring captivating stories from beloved Disney Animation, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel and Disney parks adventures to life like never before with new venues and reimagined spaces.
The Disney Treasure sets off on its maiden voyage, a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 21, followed by an inaugural season of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral.
Disney Lookout Cay in The Bahamas
This summer, Disney Cruise Line’s newest, one-of-a-kind retreat on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, Disney Lookout Cay, will open.
As we’ve shared, when guests step foot on this one-of-a-kind island destination, they’ll discover a celebration of Bahamian storytelling, artistry and culture.
The vibrant island retreat at Lighthouse Point will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
Pixar Day at Sea & Marvel Day at Sea with Disney Cruise Line
In January, two themed Disney Cruise Line sailings are returning – Pixar Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea.
For Pixar Day at Sea, Pixar stories will come to life on the Disney Fantasy through a cowboy sing-a-long breakfast with favorite Toy Story characters, Crush’s totally awesome pool party, themed activities and treats, a Pixar Pals dance party on the upper decks, character encounters and a deck show starring the Incredibles.
For Marvel Day at Sea, on the Disney Dream out of Fort Lauderdale, the largest assembly of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains on land or at sea will gather for Marvel Day at Sea for an action-packed day that’ll unlock the inner superhero in all guests.
Pixar and Marvel Day at Sea offerings are included in the price of a Disney cruise. All of the regular guest favorites, including Broadway-style shows, themed rotational dining, fireworks at sea and spaces and activities for everyone in the family, will still be present on all Disney Cruise Line sailings.
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Beginning in Summer 2024, the newest Disney Vacation Club resort, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort will open.
Tucked away in the peaceful woodlands of the Walt Disney World Resort, the refreshed cabins will make a relaxing retreat where guests can enjoy the comforts of home while staying in the great outdoors.
Adventures by Disney in Colombia
In 2024, Adventures by Disney will be taking guests to Colombia, the country and cultures that inspired Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award-winning film, “Encanto.”
Trips begin in the capital city of Bogota, and guests’ exploration of this beautiful country begins at the Paloquemao Market where they’ll see a bounty of flowers and colorful fruits and vegetables. They’ll also visit a fourth-generation coffee farm in the Coffee Region and learn about harvesting and roasting the beans, as well as brewing the perfect cup of coffee.
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event
In 2024, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is coming to Anaheim, California with a fan experience like none other.
From Aug. 9 to 11, this one-of-a-kind event will have spectacular shows, new venues and multiple days of entertainment and experiences that bring together all the wonderful worlds of Disney.
On Thursday, Aug. 8, the D23 kickoff celebration will take place at Disneyland Resort followed by shopping, exhibits, panels, presentations, and more on Aug. 9 – 11 at the Anaheim Convention Center during the day, with the fun extending into the evening at the Honda Center—the bigger home to marquee shows.
Tickets for the event will go on sale in Spring 2024 and more details will be announced early this year.
