DLWeekly Podcast - Disneyland News and Information DLWeekly

This week, a ton of Pixar Fest information like the Foodie Guide, decorations, dining options, Downtown Disney updates are a plenty as well, we talk about our upcoming trip to the parks this weekend, and more!
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News:
Pixar Fest is coming in quick! Decorations for the festival are going up all around the resort. Last week, we talked about the decorations in Downtown Disney, this week they are showing up in both parks! Very colorful bunting has appeared on the lamp posts along Main Street in Disneyland, and Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure. Each lamp post has a different Pixar character at the top. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Goodbyes, Last Hurrahs & New Horizons! (micechat.com)
With PixarFest just around the corner, there is another dining option coming to Disney California Adventure. With the launch of “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration,” there will be a dessert package available to guests. The package includes reserved seating for the parade, and a selection of Pixar-inspired foods, desserts and cheeses, with unlimited soft drinks and bottled water—plus coffee and a specialty mocktail. The package is $69 per guest. – https://www.micechat.com/384351-cuisine-with-character-disneyland-resort-pixar-fest-food-guide/
Some new items are also launching for Pixar Fest that is just amazing! Doug, from Up! is available as a popcorn bucket for Magic Key Holders, and the Guitar from Coco popcorn bucket will be available for all guests. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/04/11/2-new-disney-popcorn-buckets-are-coming-soon/#more-925040
We have some new information about the new dining locations coming to Downtown Disney in the near future. Paseo, Centrico, and Tiendita will be opening in the next few weeks according to the Disney Parks Blog. Din Tai Fung will be opening this summer, and new Steakhouse and BBQ concepts will be coming as well in the former Tortilla Jo’s footprint. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/04/new-culinary-delights-coming-to-downtown-disney-district/
Another location in Downtown Disney is undergoing some changes. The popular Marceline’s Confectionary is expanding. During the construction, there will be a Marceline’s cart in Downtown Disney selling treats. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/04/new-culinary-delights-coming-to-downtown-disney-district/
Some interactivity has come to the construction walls at the Haunted Mansion. MagicBand wearing guests can tap on specific tap points on the walls to hear sounds from the attraction. There are also QR codes to access the PhotoPass Lens options in the Disneyland App. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Goodbyes, Last Hurrahs & New Horizons! (micechat.com)
An interesting observation was made by the crew over at MiceChat this week. Some lamp posts at Jolly Holiday, Rancho del Zocalo, and the Pirates of the Caribbean bridge have been removed. This is likely related to the lamp post blowing over a few months ago in Town Square. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Goodbyes, Last Hurrahs & New Horizons! (micechat.com)
With Tiana’s Bayou Adventure winding down construction in Walt Disney World, the Ambassadors from the resort showed off some new Minnie Ears. The ears are navy blue with gold details and artwork from the attraction. No date for when these will be on sale or coming to Disneyland. – SURPRISE! Disney Revealed a NEW Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Ride Souvenir | the disney food blog

SnackChat:
Pixar Fest Foodie Guide – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/04/disney-eats-pixar-fest-foodie-guide-starting-april-26/
May the 4th Foodie Guide – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/04/disney-eats-may-the-4th-foodie-guide-2024/

Discussion Topic:
https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/02/disney-eats-foodie-guide-to-disney-cal

This week, tickets are on sale for the next After Dark event, a peek behind the curtain with Imagineering…. a lot of animatronics coming to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Season of the Force details, we play Games with James, and more!

Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/.

Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos.

News:
The next Disneyland After Dark Nite details have been released. Pride Nite will return to Disneyland on June 18th and 20th. Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite Fireworks – WELCOME! will kick off the event, along with a Welcome Pride Cavalcade, a Pride Nite Dance Club, Ohana Dance Party, Country Line Dancing and more. Magic Key pre-sales were on April 9th, with general public tickets on sale April 11th. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/04/guide-to-disneyland-after-dark-pride-nite/
What felt like a throwback to Walt Disney hosting the Disneyland 10th Anniversary show, “We Call It Imagineering” premiered last week. The series is posted to the Walt DIsney Imagineering YouTube page and the Disney Parks Blog. The first episode gave a glimpse into the new animatronic characters coming to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/04/watch-imagineers-launch-new-video-series/
We talked about the series, now lets talk about what was shown for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure! Animatronics of Tiana, Louis, Ralphie, Mama Odie, and more were seen in the episode. The characters are not using the rear projection facial mapping and have a wide range of movement. There will be no lack of characters in the new attraction when it opens later this year. – https://www.micechat.com/262305-breaking-news-splash-mountain-to-become-princess-and-the-frog-themed/
A first look at a possible new experience was shown off at the Walt Disney Company Annual Meeting of Shareholders last week. The “inspirational artwork,” as it is being called, shows a possible new Avatar experience that could come to the resort if the DisneylandForward project is approved. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/04/continuing-to-turbocharge-disney-experiences/ https://blogmickey.com/2024/04/walt-disney-imagineering-shares-first-look-at-tropical-americas-model-for-dinoland-usa-reimagining/
Season of the Force kicked off this week and there is plenty to see, do, and eat! New scenes have launched in Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, bringing characters from “Ahsoka,” “Andor,” and “The Mandalorian” to the attraction. Hyperspace Mountain has returned, and a new soundtrack for fireworks viewing in Galaxy’s Edge. The amazing BD-X droids are also appearing in Galaxy’s Edge for this season only. Of course there is plenty of merchandise and food as well. – https://www.micechat.com/383921-disneyland-star-wars-seaons-of-the-force/
A project that has been going on for seemingly ever is looking like it is wrapping up. Centrico, the new bar in the middle of Downtown Disney, appears to be wrapping up with all the tables setup and ready for guests. Paseo, the restaurant near Centrico is also looking close to completion. No opening date yet, but it will be nice to have this wrapped up. – https://www.micechat.com/384079-disneyland-update-the-force-awakens-tomorrowland-transformation-avatar-adventure/
Pixar Fest is just around the corner, and decorations have already started to appear at the resort. In Downtown Disney, there is a new mid-century inspired tower featuring Pixar characters. Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and Forky are shown on the tower. – https://www.micechat.com/384079-disneyland-update-the-force-awakens-tomorrowland-transformation-avatar-adventure/
There has been an update to the Disability Access Service. – https://disneyland.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/

SnackChat:
Bengal BBQ – https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland/bengal-barbecue/m

This week, a BIG change in the future for an opening day attraction, another celebrity sighting, new Pixar Fest merchandise, D23 ticket drama, Magic Key sales and promotions, we finish our talk with Dr. Skipper, and more!

Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/.

Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos.

News:
The Los Angeles Times reported that sometime “in the next few years” the Autopia will convert from gas engines to something else. Of course this is a good change in the future. – https://www.latimes.com/environment/newsletter/2024-04-02/column-disneyland-is-ditching-gas-cars-at-autopia-its-a-great-first-step-for-tomorrowland-boiling-point
Another well known Disney personality entertained guests last week. Josh Gad donned a train conductor costume and treated guests to a grand circle tour on the E.P. Ripley, the locomotive that Walt Disney himself rolled in on for Disneyland’s grand opening. Josh’s commentary was highly entertaining, as expected from the Olaf and LeFou actor. – A MAJOR Disney Celebrity Made SURPRISE APPEARANCES At 2 (!!!) Disney Parks! | the disney food blog
Later this month, Pixar Fest will be coming to the resort and there is a lot of merchandise to choose from. From shirts, to Mickey and Minnie ears, and everything in-between, there is something for everyone. The merchandise is broken up into collections, featuring the Pixar Painted Collection, Pizza Planet Collection, Toy Story Collection, Wilderness Explorer Collection, and more! – https://www.micechat.com/383211-disneyland-pixar-fest-merchandise-2024/
The D23 ticket experience was something else this year. All of the tickets sold out pretty quick. The communication from D23 was not the best in terms of what was for sale and what was sold out between the D23 Gold Member presale, Visa Cardholder presale, and the General ticket sale days. D23 had stated that a limited number of tickets would be sold in the first two presale days, but when general sales opened, many tickets were already sold out. – https://www.micechat.com/383350-disneyland-update-rainy-days-reveals-and-reinventions/
Since the latest round of Magic Keys have gone on sale, they haven’t sold out. Disneyland appears to be promoting the program in the park with signs to upgrade your park ticket to a Magic Key. – https://www.micechat.com/383350-disneyland-update-rainy-days-reveals-and-reinventions/
Magic Key Holders have an opportunity to get some new Star Wars merchandise before the general public. The Will Gay collection will offer pre-sales starting April 3 at the Star Wars Trading Post in Downtown Disney. Limited quantities will be held for pre-sales. The collection includes an Ewok hoodie, bucket hat, and a Darth Vader sling bag. – Disneyland Magic Key Holder Pre-Sale Announced for New Star Wars Artist Series Merchandise by Will Gay – WDW News Today (wdwnt.com)
We have an update on the new Disney community being built in the Coachella Valley in California. Cotino – A Storyliving by Disney Community posted an update to the Disney Parks Blog showing the entrance to the community, the beginning of Longtable Park, one of the parks in the community, and progress of the model homes. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/behind-the-magic-of-cotino-the-first-storyliving-by-disney-community/
Even though Tiana’s Palace has been open for months now, new additions can still pop up. Louis the Alligator has a new statuette near the entrance of the location. It is nice to see Disney adding things to a seemingly complete experience. – https://www.micechat.com/383350-disneyland-update-rainy-days-reveals-and-reinventions/
Season of the Force starts this week and there are some new activities to take part in. A new Seek and Find adventure will begin at the Star Trader where guests will search for hidden cylinders that will reveal a code to receive a kee

This week, more D23 Expo details, new Season of the Force experiences, Toontown might finally be complete, PhotoPass Excursions has moved, a famous Imagineer has resurfaced, we talk to David “Dr.Skipper” Marley, and more!
Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/.

Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos.

News:
New details have been released regarding Season of the Force this year. To add to the fun, a special fireworks show titled “Fire of the Rising Moons” will debut. The best place to experience this show is in Galaxy’s Edge at the Black Spire Spaceport, the TIE Echelon docking platform, and the speeder garage. Music from John Williams will play as part of the show. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/guide-to-season-of-the-force-at-disneyland-resort/
It appears that the very last thing to be completed at Toontown is finally done! Donald’s Duck Pond finally opened this last week. The area features a small splash pad, and a shower in the rear part of the area to rinse off when done playing. – https://www.micechat.com/382788-disneyland-news-toontown-troubles-spring-surprises-seasonal-shenanigans/
The PhotoPass excursions we talked about previously have moved. PhotoPass excursions are now in Disney California Adventure near Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. Photo spots include Grizzly Flats, Pixar Pier, Paradise Gardens Park, and San Fransokyo. – https://www.micechat.com/382788-disneyland-news-toontown-troubles-spring-surprises-seasonal-shenanigans/
Weeklyteers who love bubbles will love this story. A new interactive bubble blower is available in Toowntown and features cranks and buttons that are functional. The blower makes noises and lights up in different colors. You can pick one up at EngineEar Souvenirs for $38. – https://wdwnt.com/2024/03/new-interactive-mickeys-toontown-bubble-blower-available-at-disneyland-park/ https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/03/25/hold-up-is-this-the-best-souvenir-disney-has-ever-released/
Blue Milk at Galaxy’s Edge has been something that some fans love, and some fans don’t. Well, coming soon, you can get some at your local grocery store! TruMoo Blue Milk will be arriving soon at grocery stores around the US. The carton says “Blue-Colored Vanilla Lowfat Milk with other flavors,” which is different than the parks version which is dairy free. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/03/21/star-wars-blue-milk-is-coming-to-grocery-stores/
One of the most iconic Imagineers has confirmed they are working with Imagineering again. Joe Rohde is back on the Imagineering Campus leading a series of master class work sessions for current Imagineers. There is no word on if he has any involvement in any current or future projects. – https://www.wdwmagic.com/other/walt-disney-imagineering/news/25mar2024-joe-rohde-confirms-he-is-working-with-walt-disney-imagineering.htm
We have more information on the characters that appeared in the concept art for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. “The Critters” as they are called consists of Byhalia the Beaver, Gritty the Rabbit, Beau the Opossum, Apollo the Racoon, Rufus the Turtle, and Timeleon the Otter. Beau, Apollo, and Rufus will be a huggable plush available soon. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/meet-the-critters-at-tianas-bayou-adventure-part-1/?CMP=SOC-DPFY24Q2wo0320240005F

Snack Chat:
May is coming faster than we all realize, which can only mean one thing! May the 4th! With that comes the Season of the Force Foodie Guide! – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/disney-eats-season-of-the-force-foodie-guide-for-disneyland-resort-2024/

Discussion Topic:
David “Dr. Skipper” Marley
heydrmarley@gmail.com

This week, Pixar Fest details have been announced, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is showing real progress, an entire land is closing, a surprise encounter happened for guests at Soarin’, new CEO possibilities, we talk about all the D23 Expo 2024 details, and more!

Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/.

Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos.

News:
We know a lot more about some things coming to Pixar Fest this summer. A new Club Pixar nighttime party will take place in the Hollywood Backlot in Disney California Adventure, the Pixar Pals Playtime Party will debut at the Fantasyland Theatre, Pixar-themed food and marketplaces will be available, and of course lots of merchandise options. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-pixar-fest-at-disneyland/ https://www.micechat.com/374996-save-the-date-disneyland-announces-the-full-slate-of-events-for-2024/
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is moving right along and is looking closer and closer to completion! This week, plants and flowers appeared on the mountain, making it look more alive and inviting. This is just the first step towards completion, but it is nice to see from the outside. – https://www.micechat.com/382454-disneyland-update-new-gates-blooming-bayou-pink-trees/
An entire land is closing soon for a bit. May 1st, Critter Country will temporarily close to make room for the completion of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, along with the conversion of two existing locations into the Tiana theme. Louis’ Critter Club will take over the left side of Pooh Corner, and Ray’s Berets will replace The Briar Patch. Both locations seem to be keeping the same kinds of merchandise as before, just changing theming. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/disneyland-announces-2-shops-inspired-by-the-princess-and-the-frog/?CMP=SOC-DPFY24Q2wo0307240001F
A once in a lifetime experience happened for guests boarding Soarin’ Over California. Chief Flight Attendant Patrick, portrayed by Patrick Warburton, surprised guests dressed as his safety spiel character. He alluded to his other notable Disney character, Kronk from the Emperor’s New Groove. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/disneys-soarin-star-patrick-warburton-surprises-fans-at-ride/
Toontown is getting a new popcorn bucket featuring one of the cutest characters in Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Chuby is the name of the bird featured at the end of the attraction and is now a fun food container! The new popcorn bucket will be available at the Toontown popcorn cart. – https://www.micechat.com/382454-disneyland-update-new-gates-blooming-bayou-pink-trees/
One of our favorite locations in Downtown Disney is closed for an extended refurbishment. WonderGround Gallery is closed until “next winter” according to the Disneyland website. Some of the artwork is still available for purchase at DisneyHome next door. – WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney District Closed for Extended Refurbishment – WDW News Today (wdwnt.com)
According to Bloomberg, there are a few candidates being considered to take over the CEO role at Disney in the future. Dana Walden, the Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products, Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, and Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN and Sports Content. Disney may appoint a CEO or President before Iger exits again, but it is not expected to be chosen in 2024. – https://wdwnt.com/2024/03/reports-indicate-four-disney-executives-are-top-picks-to-succeed-bob-iger-as-ceo/
A space visitor from the east coast has made his way to Disneyland. Astronaut Mickey has landed in Tomorrowland “walking” up the support column for the DVC kiosk. Mickey is sporting a new outfit than in Epcot to better match the theming of Tomorrowland. – https://wdwnt.com

This week, a few Magic Key updates, a huge win for DisneylandForward, some little decorations, a glimpse of the future for entering the parks, Disney Channel Nite recap, we talk about Disney vs Non-Disney Cruises, and more!

Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/.

Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos.

News:
Weeklyteers who have wanted to get a Magic Key still have that opportunity. Some of the keys are still open for sale. For those who joined the queue as soon as the keys went back on sale were greeted with a new system that allowed notification through email, the inventory level of the keys they wanted, and added monthly payments to qualifying guests. Keyholders can get a special magnet, take part in exclusive character interactions, and photo spots. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Imagineering Reimagined, Avatar Anticipations & Magic Key Mysteries! (micechat.com)
The lawsuit that was filed by Dream Magic Key Holders stating that Disneyland misled and deceived customers had its settlement finalized this week. 103,431 Dream Key Holders will get about $67 each of the $9.5 million class action lawsuit. Weeklyteers who are a part of the lawsuit will be contacted. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/03/08/confirmed-judge-finalizes-settlement-in-9-5-million-disney-park-pass-lawsuit/
Some great news on the DisneylandForward project this week. The Anaheim Planning Commission approved the proposal 5-1. The vote was after 2 hours of public comments, with 54 total speakers. 40 were in favor, 13 against. The Anaheim City Council is still required for final approval, which could happen in April. – https://wdwnt.com/2024/03/breaking-disneylandforward-proposal-for-disneyland-resort-expansion-approved-by-anaheim-planning-commission/
One of the smallest inhabitants of Disneyland has decorated their home for St. Patricks day! “The Little Man of Disneyland” – Patrick Begorra – has a pot of gold, a rainbow streamer, and some green decorations installed at his home near Indiana Jones in Adventureland. – https://www.micechat.com/382274-disneyland-update-imagineering-reimagined-avatar-anticipations-magic-key-mysteries/
The newest Disneyland After Dark Nite event was a rousing success! Disney Channel Nite was held last week on two nights and guests seemed to have a blast with all the characters, atmosphere, food, and merchandise. Social media was full of guests enjoying everything about his after hours party. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024/03/06/review-we-paid-139-to-eat-beignets-and-dino-nuggets-in-disney-and-we-have-no-regrets/
Walt Disney Imagineering is getting new leadership. Barbara Bouza, the current president of Walt Disney Imagineering, announced her departure this week. Taking her place at the helm will be Bruce Vaughn, who returned to Imagineering recently and was responsible for The New Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom, Pandora, Cars Land, and Buena Vista Street, to name a few. – https://www.micechat.com/382274-disneyland-update-imagineering-reimagined-avatar-anticipations-magic-key-mysteries/
Fans of Tortilla Jo’s in Downtown Disney have been given more time to say goodbye to this longtime venue. April 7th is the new closing date for the location, which was originally set to close at the end of March. – DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Imagineering Reimagined, Avatar Anticipations & Magic Key Mysteries! (micechat.com)
The first of the new turnstiles coming to the resort have been installed. The new entrance turnstiles feature a MagicBand+ reader, screen with a camera, and clear gates that will open to allow guests entrance once scanned in. The new system should allow guests to scan in themselves, with cast members present to help if needed. The new turnstiles are also wider, allowing wheelchairs and strollers access in the same place as guests and not a separate gate. – https://wdwnt.com/2024/03/breaking-first-new-