AT&T is now the official wireless provider for U.S. Disney Parks

AT&T is now the official wireless provider for Disneyland and Disney World and says it will enhance its network in the parks.

As the official provider, AT&T will sponsor Disney-created soccer and runDisney events at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, according to a press release.

AT&T, according to the release, will distribute 25 antenna systems to enhance the wireless capacity in areas with high mobile traffic, more than 350 small cells to extend network connectivity, 10 cell sites across Disney World to provide wide-ranging mobile service to guests and more than 40 repeaters to provide more consistent and reliable mobile experience for both guests and cast members.

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Next Star Wars official convention set for California

The next official Star Wars convention - Star Wars Celebration VII - will be held in Anaheim, Calif. in 2015

The convention, scheduled for April 16-19, 2015 is being timed to the release of the Star Wars: Epsiode VII, according to the official Star Wars site.

The announcement was made at the end of the recent Star Wars Celebration Europe's closing.

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Disney unveils 'Planes' toys and merchandise in time for movie opening

Disney has announced a number of product tie-ins to the movie "Planes" scheduled to be released Aug. 9.

RC planes, fashion, home decor, lifestyle and toys some of the products. "There's also something for collectors with an all-new assortment of diecast featuring key Disney's 'Planes' characters, " Josh Silverman, executive vice president global licensing, Disney Consumer Products, said in a press release.

The animated movie  centers around Dusty (voice of Dane Cook), a small town dreamer who longs to enter the most epic around-the-world air race despite his fear of heights.
Here are some of the products:

Disney's Planes Character Diecast Singles Assortment by Mattel ($5.99 each): These 1:55 scale diecast planes feature rolling wheels and spinning propellers.

Wing Control Dusty Crophopper Radio Control Plane by Mattel ($39.99):  This RC vehicle offers role-play remote control.

U-Command Super Charged Dusty by Thinkway ($49.99): Deluxe infrared remote control Super Charged Dusty comes to life with animation, voice and sound effects. There are 10 program buttons on the wireless remote to make him talk, move and turn in more than 1,000 action combinations.

Planes Sky Track Challenge by Mattel ($29.99): This giant track set has two, five foot air tracks, mountain tunnel and a winner's circle.

Disney's Planes Runway Flyers by Mattel ($16.99): Snap the foam plane featuring favorite characters from the film into the runway launcher. When the trigger is pulled, the plane is released and can soar up to 25 feet in the air.

Disney's Planes Action Figure Sets by Disney Store ($24.50 each): Dusty, El Chupacabra, Bravo and Echo action figures speak a variety of phrases, feature LED lights and engine revving sounds.

Toddler Fashions from Children's Apparel Network ($10 - $18):  Fleece jackets, t-shirts and shorts sets.

Disney's Planes Twin Comforter by Jay Franco ($32.99): Disney sheet sets and blankets are sold separately.

Disney's Planes Cuddle Pillow by Jay Franco ( $19.99)

Dusty Woven Shirt for Boys by Disney Store ($22.50): This military-style woven short sleeve shirt features embroidered Dusty patches, aviator glasses and insignia, a great fit for aviators in training. 

Planes: Storybook Deluxe App ($6.99): The Disney "Planes: Storybook Deluxe" app has 41 story screens. The read-along text and full narration re-retells the story of the feature film. "Planes: Storybook Deluxe" is available at the Apple App Store.

Planes Read-Along Storybook and CD ($6.99): This  read-along storybook and CD is a complete retelling of the theatrical film. Featuring music, sound effects and character voice.

Dusty's Great Race from Disney Publishing ($12.99): This storybook is narrated by Dusty. Featuring a padded cover and two pages of  punch-out planes.

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New Sephora Disney beauty collection inspired by Ariel is released

"The Little Mermaid Collection"

The latest Disney inspired beauty collection from Sephora based on Disney Princess characters is now available.

This collection is all about Ariel from "The Little Mermaid." The collection contains eyeshadow, perfume, lip gloss and nail polish, according to press release from Disney.

Here is what the collection includes:

Storylook Eyeshadow Palette Volume 3 Ariel Edition ($55). The shades are:

Blue Lagoon - The moon shimmering on the lagoon (shimmering blue)

Storylook Eyeshadow

Scuttle - Ariel's skintone while talking to Scuttle (shimmering pinky beige)
Flounder - Flounder coming out of the water (matte nude)
Sebastian - Sebastian's face (matte coraly pink)
Flotsam - Flotsam in the shadows (deep blue charcoal)
Sea Shells - Ariel's sisters singing (shimmering ivory)
Les Poissons - Chef Louis' bloodthirsty shadow in the 'Les Poissons' scene (dusty satin muave)
Caspian Sea - Light reflecting through the water on Atlantica (shimmering rich turquoise)
Your Voice - Ursula striking a deal with Ariel (glistening silver pearl)
Unfortunate Souls - The smoke during Ursula's finale (matte lavender grey)
Atlantica - The shimmering turquoise colors of Atlantica (shimmering sea foam green)
Fins - Ariel's fin under the sea (glittery mermaid green)
Sick of Swimmin' - Ariel's first breath of air with legs (shimmering opalescent)

Ursula - Ursula's skintone in the shadows (pearly purple)
Sha La La La - Fish chorus singing to Ariel and Eric (matte dark fuchsia)
Triton - The King shooting his triton (shimmering gold)
Wanderin' Free - Ariel imagining herself with legs (shimmering pink champagne)
Jetsam - Jetsam's fins in the shadows (deep teal with dark iridescent glitter)
Sea Witch - The Sea Witch in all her power and glory (pearly violet)
Treasures Untold - Glistening water from the King's triton (opalescent pale pink)

Part of Your World Eyeshadow Palette ($30) The shades include:
What's-It - (matte clay grey) and three glittery shades
Who's-It - (glittering white)

Dinglehopper - (iridescent light teal)

Sephora Nail Lacquer Set

Snarfblat -(violet with iridescent glitter)

Sephora X What Cha-Nail-Callit Nail Lacquer Set ($24.50) The shades include:

We In Luck Here (creamy coral red)

Hotter Under The Water( creamy plum)

Ariel (rich pearly turquoise)

Off The Hook (pearly silver chrome)

Life Is The Bubbles (iridescent glittery shimmer)

Devotin' To Floatin' (pearlescent teal).

Mermaid Song Lipgloss Set ($38)  The shades include:

Dream Girl (perky pink)

Sea Witch (bold berry)

Redhead (rich red)

Mermaid (courageous coral)

Kiss the Girl Eau de Parfum Spray, 50 mL ($58) 

Kiss the Girl Roll On Eau de Parfum ($19)

Set the Mood Compact Mirror ($20)

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'American Idol' Celebrity Motorcade coming to Disney World July 31

"American Idol" fans get ready.

The American Idol Live Tour 2013 is coming to Florida and for one day, the idols will participate in an "American Idol Live!" Celebrity Motorcade at Hollywood Studios in Disney World as part of a special Limited Time Magic event.

On July 31, 2013, some of the the American Idol 12 Finalists will parade down Hollywood Boulevard. 

The American Idol Tour is a  30-show concert tour  heading through major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami before wrapping in Nashville, Tenn. on Aug. 31. 

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Monstrous Eye-Scream Sundae is Disney's Limited Time Magic

A special sundae is going to the be the next Limited Time Magic taking place in both Disneyland and Disney World from July 29 to Aug. 4.

The Monstrous Eye-Scream Sundae, with two scoops of mint chip ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, cookie horns, a chocolate eye and sprinkles, all inside a crunchy waffle cone will be available for a limited time.

In the Magic Kingdom it will be available at The Plaza Restaurant and Plaza Ice Cream Cone.

In Disneyland it will be available at Gibson Girl Ice Cream and Clarabelle's Ice Cream.


UP FOR DEBATE
Is Disney's Limited Time Magic nothing more than Limited Time Shopping?

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New winter World of Color show to debut at Disneyland in November

A new holiday version of the "World of Color" at California Adventure in Disneyland will debut Nov. 15 featuring characters from the upcoming Disney animated movie "Frozen," Disney has been announced by Disney.

Disney publicity photo

"The brand-new show is filled with great music, new effects and, of course, all the magnificence of the ‘World of Color’ fountain and projection system. It’s going to be a very powerful and amazing experience for guests of all ages," said Steve Davison, creative director of the original “World of Color” show.

“World of Color − Winter Dreams” will be hosted by Olaf the snowman, from the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated feature “Frozen." The show combines new animation with classic winter scenes from various Disney films such as, “Bambi,” “Fantasia” and “Toy Story.” The show will include new special effects.

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Minnie Mouse on the cover of LOVE

She's a fashion icon and a fashionista in her own, now Minnie Mouse is gracing the cover of one of Britain's influential fashion magazine's LOVE.

Photo by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggot

LOVE 10 'The Sweetie Issue'

Autumn/Winter 2013 goes on

 sale July 23, 2013

http://www.thelovemagazine.co.uk

As part of the 5th anniversary special, The Sweetie Issue, Minnie will be the first cartoon character to appear on the cover of LOVE. And in honor of Minnie, the magazine will contains some of the world's most sought-after models wearing Minnie Mouse ears created by leading luxury fashion houses, according to a Disney press release.

Edie Campbell, Cara Delevigne, Georgia May Jagger, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Chiharu Okungi will wear Minnie Mouse ears designed by Gucci, Loewe, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu and Jake and Dinos Chapman for Louis Vuitton.

"I've always been a big fan of Minnie's style, that polka-dot bow and dress. So we set about getting my favourite models in Minnie Mouse ears that had been interpreted by the likes of Miu Miu and Jake and Dinos Chapman for Louis Vuitton. But that wasn't enough: we had to get Minnie Mouse herself in on the act too," LOVE's Editor-in-Chief Katie Grand said in the release.

Here is a gallery of Minnie Mouse ears:

Minnie Ears by Dior

Minnie Ears by Gucci

Minnie Ears by Gucci

Minnie Ears by Gucci

Minnie Ears by Gucci

Minnie Ears by Louis Vuitton

Minnie Ears by Marc Jacobs

Minnie Ears by Loewe

Minnie Ears by Louis Vuitton and
Jake and Dinos Chapman

Minnie Ears by Miu Miu

Minnie Ears by Prada

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Ultimate Disney movie soundtrack playlist

Ever need a little extra help finding your happy place? Maybe you just need the right soundtrack for your life.

Recently I found myself thinking the right music was exactly what I needed to put some spring in my step during my commute, so I set out to make a playlist of some of my favorite Disney movie songs.

I'm showing my true colors, and perhaps my age, with this playlist: It's heavy on the films of Disney's second Golden Age of animation (1989-1996), with a few classics thrown in. And, although Pixar wasn't part of Disney when "Toy Story" came out, I went ahead and included the sweet "You've Got a Friend in Me."

I dare you not to sing along. Or book a spontaneous trip to your happy place.

• Circle of Life (Lion King)
• When You Wish Upon a Star (Pinocchio)
• Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo (Cinderella)
• Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
• Bella Notte (Lady and the Tramp)
• Kiss the Girl (Little Mermaid)
• Part of Your World (Little Mermaid)
• A Whole New World (Aladdin) 
• Something There (Beauty and the Beast) 
• Once Upon a Dream (Sleeping Beauty) 
• God Help the Outcasts (Hunchback of Notre Dame) 
• Heaven's Light / Hellfire (Hunchback of Notre Dame)
• Cruella de Vil (101 Dalmatians) 
• Poor Unfortunate Souls (Little Mermaid)
• I Wan'na Be Like You (The Jungle Book) 
• You've Got a Friend in Me (Toy Story)
• Under the Sea (Little Mermaid)
• I Just Can't Wait to be King (Lion King) 
• Be Our Guest (Beauty and the Beast) 
• Heigh-Ho (Snow White) 
• Out There (Hunchback of Notre Dame) 
• You Can Fly! (Peter Pan)

Help me fill out the list. Are any of your favorites missing? 

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'Saving Mr. Banks' movie poster unveiled

Two weeks ago Disney released the first official trailer for "Saving Mr. Banks," the film that tells the story of how "Mary Poppins" was made.

Now comes the first official movie poster:

The movie stars Tom Hanks as Walt Disney and Emma Thompson as P.L. Travers, the uncompromising author of "Mary Poppins."

According to the official synopsis, Disney comes up against the curmudgeonly, uncompromising Travers, who has absolutely no intention of letting her beloved magical nanny get mauled by the Hollywood machine. But, as the books stop selling and money grows short, Travers reluctantly agrees to go to Los Angeles to hear Disney's plans for the adaptation.

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FastPass+: The end of spontaneity at Disney World?

Disney veterans know there are some restaurants where you simply must make your reservations 180 days in advance. Fair enough; we can live with that.

Now comes word that you'll soon be able to commit to rides 60 days in advance.

As the MyMagic+ system gets closer to launch late this year, it seems clear the next step is planning your FastPasses before you leave your room -- and maybe even before you leave home.

A recent report from WDWMagic details how the program will work. In a nutshell: Two months in advance of the day you arrive, you can decide which park you want to visit on which day, and whether you want to get there early, mid-day, late or stay all day. You pick three preferred experiences at the park and get your assigned one-hour FastPass windows.

All of this may be fine for compulsive planners, but what about everyone else?

That's where a lot of my questions about how FastPass+ will work: Will the best times go fast? Will you get stuck with lunchtime and dinnertime FastPasses if you wait until the day before your visit to book times? What if you wait until getting to the park? What if the time the system spits out conflicts with your dining reservation?

I'm sure the Imagineers have thought all this through, but I'm not wild about the idea of planning which park I'll be at on which day -- two months in advance. And I'm a compulsive planner. I think vacation planning is half the fun of the trip. What will this mean for people who don't make spreadsheets for their vacations?

It won't be sad to see the end of the morning rush for Toy Story Mania FastPasses. But it would be sad if this meant the death of spontaneity at Disney World.

As much as I am a planner, there are some spur-of-the-moment things I love to do at Disney World. Here are a few of them:

Bus roulette: When we don't have plans, we'll head to the bus stop and take the first park bus that comes along, leading to a whole day of spontaneity.

Afternoon by the pool: Sometimes a perfect pool day comes along and you just can't pass it up. And you certainly can't plan for it two months in advance. But what if you have to weigh it against those coveted Toy Story Mania FastPasses?

Cocktails and a snack: There comes a time in every Disney trip when you think, "I'm hungry, I should eat, but I can't bear the idea of another sitdown meal." You can't really plan ahead when that's going to hit. But when it does, you can head to any number of lounges that serve good food. Or order a pizza and eat it on your room's balcony.

Fireworks from the beach: One of our favorite ways to see the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom is from the beach at the Polynesian resort. No need to plan any further ahead than the time it will take you to get there. Take a towel and sit on the beach, or get there early and snag a hammock.

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Gameloft will release Marvel's Thor: The Dark World game

Gameloft will soon be releasing Thor: The Dark World game for the iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android in anticipation of the upcoming movie.

Screenshot from Thor:The Dark World trailer

Gameloft and Marvel has previously teamed up to develop several successful games including The Amazing Spider-Man and Iron Man 3- The Official Game

In this latest game, according to a news release, Thor must restore order to the Nine Worlds. Perform all of the God of Thunder's iconic combat moves as you lead Asgardian forces, including the Warriors Three, in over 100 exciting and varied missions against Marauders and Dark Elves.

The game also includes social multiplayer element where fans join forces to earn victory.

Thor: The Dark World -The Official Game will be released in conjunction with the theatrical film from Marvel in November.

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Star Wars Christmas ornaments unveiled

Hallmark has launched a new line of Star Wars ornaments for this coming Christmas season.

Unveiled at the San Diego Comic-Con, a large portion of the ornaments are part of the 30th anniversary of the the "Return of the Jedi," according to the official Star Wars site.

Here are some of the ornaments, according to the website:

"At Jabba's Mercy," depicting the villainous crime lord Jabba the Hutt lounging in his palace with interpreter droid C-3PO at his side, as seen in Return of the Jedi, and plays dialogue from this film. The battery-operated ornament is 4.25 inch  high and is priced at $32.95 with batteries included.

Wicket and Teebo, a two-pack of ornaments that marks the 17th offering in Keepsake Ornament's official Star Wars series. These courageous, spear-toting Ewoks as seen in Return of the Jedi are 3-inches high and will sell together for $17.95.

The All Terrain Scout Transport (AT-ST) as used by Imperial forces inReturn of the Jedi, featuring battle sounds from the film. This battery-operated ornament is 4.375 inch high and is priced $29.95 with batteries included.

Jango Fett complete with his signature jetpack and duel blaster pistols. The mercenary from Attack of the Clones is 4.5-inches  high and will sell for $14.95.

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Out of print Disney music being re-released

Eighteen out-of-print Disney CDs and soundtracks will be re-released as part of a deal between Walt Disney Records and Amazon.com.

"We're excited to be able to offer customers access to the great Disney music they love through Amazon's CreateSpace service," Sarah Wood, head of U.S. Entertainment, Amazon.com said in a news release.

On July 23, Best of Annette, Annette Funicello's CD of 14 tracks from her recording career, including hits from the popular beach movies, Disney films and television classics in which she starred will be available, according to the press release.

Other recent titles include soundtracks for Marvel's The Avengers, Disney-Pixar's Up, Ratatouille and Monsters, Inc., plus Lady and the Tramp, Peter Pan, Pocahontas and Mulan. In August, The Little Mermaid Songs From the Sea will be available, in advance of The Little Mermaid Diamond Edition Blu-ray release in the fall.

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Disney artifacts exhibit coming to Chicago in October 2013

A Disney exhibition of nearly 300 artifacts is coming to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago from Oct.16, 2013 to Feb. 17, 2014.

Presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives showcases the accomplishments of one of Chicago’s native sons, Walt Disney. The exhibit opens on the actual 90the anniversary of the company, according to a D23 press release.

 “We’re proud of this heritage, and we are very pleased to share this rare glimpse into our rich history with Chicago’s world-renowned Museum of Science and Industry,” Robert

Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company said in the news release.

The items to be featured, according to the press release, include:

• Clips from several of Walt Disney’s earliest animated works, before there was a Mickey.
• The original script, written by Walt Disney, for the 1928 cartoon short Steamboat Willie.
• A partial recreation of Walt Disney’s formal office from the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, Calif.
• Hand-drawn artwork, hand-sculpted models and props used in the production of  "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," "Pinocchio," "Fantasia," "Dumbo" and "Sleeping Beauty."
• Animation models and artwork from contemporary Disney animation film hits, including "The Little Mermaid," "Beauty and the Beast," "The Lion King" and "Aladdin."
• Props from classic Disney live-action films, including "Mary Poppins," "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea," "The Rocketeer," "The Princess Diaries," "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" and "Enchanted."
• A special area of the exhibition that is dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the release of "Mary Poppins."
• A salute to Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom, showcasing artwork, Audio-Animatronics characters, and memorabilia from such popular attractions as it’s a small world, Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln, The Hall of Presidents, as well as early plans and correspondence for Walt Disney’s vision of Epcot.

This exhibit is not included in Museum Entry and will require an additional timed-entry ticket, which is $9 for adults, $9 for seniors and $7 for children 3-11.

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A visit to the Tangled rest area at Disney World's Magic Kingdom

"Restful" probably isn't the first word that comes to mind when you think about a day at the Magic Kingdom.

© Steven Liebman

"Hot," "crowded" and "exhausting" seem more likely.

But there are a few spots at the Magic Kingdom where you can take a breath. One old favorite is the little corner of Tom Sawyer's Island where a couple of rocking chairs face across the water toward Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Now there's a new spot where you can recharge, both figuratively and literally: the Tangled rest area near Peter Pan's flight at the edge of Fantasyland.

You can certainly expect this area to be crowded -- new restrooms? yes, please! -- but you still can snag a brief respite here. The area is highly themed to resemble the island city that is home to the castle where Rapunzel was born. In the evening, the lanterns glow, evoking the town's moving memorial to its lost princess.

Recharging station

What you'll find here:

• Restrooms: Business first. The restrooms are what this spot is all about. They're what you've come to expect from Disney World restrooms -- large and pleasant enough, for public potties.
• Rapunzel's tower: High on the hill behind the restrooms, you'll spot Rapunzel's familiar tower from the movie "Tangled" (no blonde tresses in sight). 
• Seating: If you're lucky, you can pull up to a shady spot at a bench or barrel table to take a break and ... 
• Recharging stations: Tucked away in the tree stumps are electrical sockets so you can recharge your electronics while you rest your feet.
• Hidden Pascals: For a change of pace from hunt hidden Mickeys, take a few minutes while your gear charges to find the chameleon's hidden friends.  

© Mary Liebman

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Is Disney's Limited Time Magic nothing more than Limited Time Shopping?

When Disney made its big announcement that Disneyland and Disney World in 2013 would be filled with Limited Time Magic -- "52 weeks of magical experiences big and small that appear, then disappear as the next special surprise debuts" -- who would have thought that they were talking in many cases about merchandise?

Yes, there have been some special fireworks, parades and guest appearances by seldom-seen characters, but much of the Limited Time Magic has turned out to be nothing more than Limited Time Shopping.

While shopping is great entertainment for some, is the merchandise availability really the goal of Disney to "surprise and delight Guests in fanciful and unexpected ways" as stated on the Limited Time Magic website.

Is the Lone Ranger boot mug really something special -- particularly when the the movie wasn't? Did we really need a Limited Time Magic week to buy miniature MousekeEars or other special Ear Hats like graduation mortar boards? Or a week for a vintage t-shirt sale? Even to participate in the Easter Egg Hunt in Epcot you needed to buy a map -- which earned you a Vinalymation key chain when you returned the map.

The latest Limited Time Magic -- Christmas in July -- is a week to unveil the new ear hat ornaments (we believe Hallmark had its ornament debut last week). You also can purchase special Christmas-themed treats at various locations just for the week week.

Special foods also have been the center of some Limited Time Magic events, such as the Matterhorn Macaroon at Disneyland. And special menus have appeared at certain times of year. Now, maybe these special treats and menus are worth a week's celebration. Or are these items that would normally be available anyway?

We've also seen several occasions of normal attractions getting a small tweak so they can be added to the "Limited Time Magic" lineup. For example, regular performers such as the Dapper Dans, Voice of America and Citizens of Main Street have gotten a new playlist or a different location and -- voila! -- magic. Maybe. (This is in no way a slight against these performers, they should all be must-sees when heading to the parks, limited-time playlist or no.)

Again, this is not to say there have not been some Limited Time actual Magic. Disney brought out some rare characters for Long Lost Friends Week (twice); put on a special parade for Animal Kingdom's 15th anniversary; and brought back the Golden Horseshoe Revue to Frontierland at Disneyland. And later in the year, villains will take over Hollywood Studios for Friday the 13th of September.

But if you go back through the list for the first half of the year, much of what you will see are special times to purchase more than to experience something (other than the experience of paying).

We hope the last half of the year will be filled with "new entertainment and imaginative events" which "will only happen at certain times of the year," as Disney promised.

Your thoughts?

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The Little Mermaid joining 'Once Upon a Time' next year

Fans of Disney's "Once Upon a Time" have met Snow White, Belle, Mulan and Princess Aurora (that's Sleeping Beauty to the uninitiated). But they have scanned the oceans in vain for Ariel, the Little Mermaid.

Until now.

It looks like Ariel will finally make her debut in the series' upcoming third season.

Series co-creators Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz closed their Comic-Con panel this week with a sneak peek video (embedded below) that gives us our first glimpse of the red-headed mermaid. The role has not yet been cast.

In the video, Grumpy is taken by surprise when his dinglehopper -- er, fork -- is stolen from his lunch pail. As Grumpy pursues the thief, he sees her disappear into the ocean with a wave of the stolen utensil.

Seeing Ariel on the horizon gives some of us hope that Ursula will be in hot pursuit.

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Phineas and Ferb heading to world of Star Wars

If the Phineas and Ferb crossover with the Avengers isn't enough to make your geek head explode, now there's this: A one-hour ode to Star Wars in which Phineas and Ferb live next door to Luke Skywalker on Tatooine.

The special episode, which will air next year, was announced this week at Comic-Con by Dan Povenmire and Jeff "Swampy" Marsh, creators and executive producers of Phineas and Ferb.

"May the 'Ferb' be with you and with all of us who for decades have dreamt of a chance to work with the great characters and stories of Star Wars," Povenmire said.

Here's how Disney describes the plot:

The event episode's story begins a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away – in summer. Phineas and Ferb are living happily on Tatooine, just one moisture farm over from Luke Skywalker. They love simply hanging out and creating new adventures under the twin suns but find themselves thrust into a global rebellion when the plans for blowing up the Death Star accidentally fall into their hands. 

Now that fate has suddenly pulled them into the fight for freedom, they must go in search of a pilot who can take them to the rebels so they can hand over the plans. Complicating matters, Candace has a Stormtrooper-like intent on "busting rebels" and chases Phineas and Ferb across the galaxy in hopes of retrieving the Death Star plans. 

Meanwhile, back on the Death Star, Darth Enshmirtz, a low level Darth, has created a Force-powered "Sith-inator" that he plans to use against the Rebel Alliance. Agent P, working undercover for the Rebellion, is dispatched to stop him, but quickly gets trapped in carbonite. Then, things take a startling turn when Ferb is accidentally hit by the full blast of Dr. Darth Enschmirtz’s "inator" and becomes….an evil Sith.

This won't be the first homage to Star Wars on TV. Family Guy famously retold the original Star Wars saga in an hour-long broadcast episode followed by two direct-to-video sequels. Other shows that have had entire episodes revolving around Star Wars include The Simpsons, Robot Chicken and Pinky and the Brain.

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Downtown Disney construction at Disney World could impact parking

Downtown Disney's transformation into Disney Springs at Disney World is about to start and will have a large impact on parking in the future, The Orlando Sentinel reports.

Rendering of Disney Springs

The parking spots between Planet Hollywood and Splitsville are expected to be off-limits by early next week, Keith Bradford, vice president for Downtown Disney, told the newspaper.

Construction includes a huge garage which is expected to be open by early 2015. A second garage will also be built.

Retail outlets and restaurants will remain in operation during the construction.

Disney Springs will double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, resulting in more than 150 establishments.  Disney Springs is expected to be complete in 2016.

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Vans debuts Disney's Phineas and Ferb shoes for kids

The 104 days of summer vacation are slipping away.

Vans publicity photo

Young fans of Phineas and Ferb who would like to take the spirit of summer into the school year may kick up their heels at this news.

Just in time for the first back-to-school sale flyers to hit the mailbox, Vans has launched a line of Phineas and Ferb shoes for kids.

Five patterns are available in Vans Authentic (laced) and Classic Slip-On styles. The shoes retail for $42. Phineas, Ferb and Perry the Platypus are the stars, of course, but Buford makes an appearance in one of the patterns, too.

Pity they don't make them in adult sizes. 

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Christmas in July is Disneyland and Disney World's next Limited Time Magic

© Steven Liebman

Has the recent heatwave been too much for you? How about some Christmas in July.

Disney Parks have announced the next Limited Time Magic from July 22 to July 28, 2013 will be a Christmas in July theme.

At Disney World, you can stop by the Ye Old Christmas Shop in Magic Kingdom, as well as Disney Days of Christmas at Downtown Disney for new ear hat ornaments—each featuring depictions of Santa Mickey and popular park attractions too. Tony's Town Square Restaurant in Magic Kingdom will have a special Santa Mickey Demitasse dessert, the Main Street Bakery will have holiday cupcakes and and the Cone Shop will have gingerbread sundaes.

In Disneyland, the ear hat ornaments will be available at the China Closet in Disneyland, Trolley Treats at California Adventure and the World of Disney Store at Downtown Disney District. The Gibson Girl Ice Cream on Main Street, U.S.A. will have a Peppermint Sundae, the Jolly Holiday Bakery and Café will have for gingerbread cookies, cupcakes and iced peppermint mochas.

This is also the type of Limited Time Magic we can join in when not being in the parks. Each day, from July 22 to July 28 - keep coming back here for some Disney Christmas photos to get you in the mood.

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Disneyland Viral Video: The Evil Queen terrorizing Princesses

You never know what kind of response you will get when you ask a character at Disney park a question.

Here, young Amelia at Disneyland asks a simple question of The Evil Queen - "Are you still jealous of Snow White?"

What happens next is a brief tirade by the the queen mocking Snow White and Cinderella. She even takes a dig at Mickey Mouse (how dare she). Take a look at Snow White's face as she is at a loss for words when confronted by the The Evil Queen.

Has this Evil Queen gone way over to the dark side or is she just a better at improv? Unknown, but this is one of the more animated interactions to be captured.

What do you think?

 

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Sigourney Weaver added to list of celebrity narrators for Candlelight Processional

Disney has announced that Sigourney Weaver has been added to the list celebrity narrators who will be part of the Candlelight Processional at Epcot in Disney World.

There are still three slots yet to be announced, including who will kick off the entire event. One of the mainstays on the list Jodi Benson, the voice of the Little Mermaid, does not have a slot yet. 

© Steven Liebman

Candlelight Processional

The processional is now being performed three times a night from Nov. 29 to Dec. 30, 2013. The narrator focuses on the retelling of the Christmas story, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and choir.

Here is the list so far of who is scheduled:

Nov. 29 to Dec. 1: To be announced.
Dec. 2 to Dec. 3: To be announced.
Dec. 4 to Dec. 5: Ashley Judd
Dec. 6 to Dec. 7: Whoopi Goldberg
Dec. 8 to Dec. 10: Sigourney Weaver
Dec. 11 to Dec. 13: Dennis Haysbert
Dec. 14 to Dec. 16:  James Denton
Dec. 17 to Dec. 19: Edward James Olmos
Dec. 20 to Dec. 22:  Trace Adkins
Dec. 23 to Dec. 25: To be announced.
Dec. 26 to Dec. 28:  Blair Underwood
Dec. 29 to Dec. 30: Amy Grant

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Events for New Year's at Disney World are announced

It's never to early to think about your New Year's Even plans, especially if you plan to brave the crowds and be down in Disney World to ring in the New Year.

Disney has recently announced these plans for Dec. 31, 2013. 

EPCOT

DJs will be stationed at select pavilions throughout the evening. 

© Disney

Disney publicity photo by Diana Zalucky.

"IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" will salute the new year at 7 p.m. and 11:42 p.m. 

A buffet dining experience inspired by Disney's classic animated films Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 will take place at World ShowPlace, with reservations available from 4:30 to 10:30 p.m. Priced at $68.67 for adults and $44.37 for children.

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

The Mulch, Sweat, and Shears New Year's Eve Spectacular will take place on a specially built stage in front of the Sorcerer Hat icon. The four concert sets will feature pyrotechnics and special effects and lead up to ringing in the New Year with Mulch, Sweat, and Shears playing live accompaniment to a full-scale fireworks spectacular.

SPECIAL RESORT DINING

Registered guests at select Disney resort hotels will be treated to music and entertainment. At Narcoosee's restaurant at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa there will be a four-course dining experience for $161.85 for adults and $77.19 for children, plus DJ, balloon artist and special fireworks viewing.

Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney's Boardwalk Resort offers a special-ticket New Year's Eve party from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. with a video DJ and limited viewing of Epcot's Fireworks.

DOWNTOWN DISNEY
DisneyQuest will host a special New Year's Eve event Dec. 31, beginning at 8 p.m., that will feature two DJ dance parties, a meal and beverage, access to all DisneyQuest attractions, meet-and-greets with Disney characters, and a New Year's Eve countdown and confetti drop at midnight. Tickets cost $50 per person and are available online or by calling 877-825-6146. Day-of tickets can be purchased at DisneyQuest for $60.

Splitsville Luxury Lanes will host its second New Years Party, for ages 21 and up, on Dec. 31, featuring food and beverages, a DJ, dancing, pool tables and more. Special Bowling Packages cost $175 per person (minimum 4 people) and includes 3.5 hours of bowling and shoe rental, choice of one appetizer and one entrée per person, two drink tickets, one bottle of champagne or house wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.  For more information, call 877-825-6146.

Bongos Cuban Cafe will feature a four-course dinner, champagne, party favors, live music and a midnight celebration. The party lasts from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. To reserve your table, contact 877-825-6146

Cirque du Soleil guests attending the Dec. 31 performances will receive a limited-edition Walt Disney World/Cirque trading pin. Shows are at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. For pricing contact 877-825-6146.

Raglan Road will start its celebration at 6 p.m. with house band Creel and Irish dancing. There will be complimentary champagne toasts at 7 p.m. and midnight.

House of Blues – The reggae band SOJA will take the stage at 9 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Tickets cost $37-$40, and the concert is open to guests of all ages. 

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