We’ve Just Begun to Dream!

By Francesca Scrimgeour, Walt Disney Archives

The 21st century began on October 1, 1982, at Walt Disney World Resort. Just as Magic Kingdom Park, and all of Walt Disney World Resort, had beforehand, EPCOT Center (now known as EPCOT) opened its gates on October 1. Card Walker, future Disney Legend and then company CEO and Chairman of the Board, best explained the reasoning for this opening phase in his dedication speech for the Universe of Energy on October 4, 1982: “Since we opened October 1, that’s our slowest day, our slowest week and month of the year. Of course, we do that by design. It was the same day that we opened Walt Disney World in 1971. The reason is we like to work out all the kinks in our inventions, all the new and innovative rides and systems that have never been tried anywhere else in the world before.” Uniquely, EPCOT Center celebrated with a month of dedications with each pavilion and attraction host its own special unveiling celebrations leading up to the EPCOT Center Grand Opening and Dedication Ceremony on October 24, 1982.

A close-up photograph of the entertainment performers at the EPCOT Center dedication on October 1, 1982.

October 1 was not only the first day that EPCOT Center was officially open, but it also doubled as the dedication day for Spaceship Earth. Guests were greeted with dancers, trumpeters, and singers to the song written for the occasion “We’ve Just Begun to Dream” that later played at many of the dedications throughout the month. To kick-off each of these dedications, Genie Field, the 1982 Walt Disney World Ambassador, was on hand to introduce either Card Walker or Donn Tatum, who were the senior leadership team helping to guide the project, bringing EPCOT Center to life. On October 1, Card Walker started the event by welcoming everyone to EPCOT Center, including Governor Bob Graham, who gave a speech about turning the dream of EPCOT into reality. Card took the time to recognize the magnitude of the entire EPCOT Center project and stated in his speech that, “EPCOT Center represents the culmination of more than 25 million hours of effort by talented artists, designers, engineers, and technicians with hundreds of advisors and thousands of construction workers. All propelled by the power and the force of an idea of one wonderful man, Walt Disney. EPCOT Center celebrates human achievements and innovation born from imagination, it is a showplace dedicated to entertain, we hope, with a purpose. Our goals for EPCOT Center are quite clear, we want to first entertain, then inform and inspire all who come here, and above all to instill in our guests a new sense of belief and pride in mankind’s ability to shape a world that offers real hope to people everywhere in the world.”

A wide view of the dedication festivities at the EPCOT Center dedication on October 1, 1982.

As the symbol of the entire project, Spaceship Earth was the first of the pavilions and showplaces to be dedicated. One of the largest geodesic spheres in the world, Spaceship Earth emulates our globe and the attraction itself is a spectacular time machine through our planet’s communication and collective knowledge. Card Walker highlighted the pavilion by saying, “EPCOT Center is a celebration of mankind’s ingenuity and innovation and it is clear that communications provide the basis and foundation for all progress. Communications has played a vital role in mankind’s survival and that role will increase in importance, in this very exciting information age that’s going on right now.” The ceremony ended with a reprise of “We’ve Just Begun to Dream” amidst a flurry of EPCOT Center cast members joining with balloons in hand to release them at the finale along with a flight of doves. It is hard to believe that this was just day one of the celebrations with a whole month of festivities to follow!

The finale of the World of Motion dedication on October 5, 1982.

The celebrations continued around the entire theme park. Card Walker dedicated the Universe of Energy on October 4, and the World of Motion on October 5, along with representative sponsors, who expressed their excitement about being involved with this revolutionary project. Not limiting their vision only to what lies ahead, the original Future World pavilions made sure to demonstrate where we were, where we are now, and what the possibilities are for the future. The focus of the entire EPCOT Center project was to interweave entertainment, history, and technology together, and the Universe of Energy was no exception, with Card affirming during the dedication ceremony that “It houses new dimensions in entertainment and the conveying of information where a unique traveling theater is literally propelled by the power of sunshine from a network of solar cells that you can see there from the rooftop.”

The World of Motion also echoed the goals of Future World with its historical and sometimes zany narration of transportation leading up to the most innovative concepts in transportation at that time. In his dedication speech for the World of Motion, Card remarked that this showplace “illustrates how mankind’s progress through the ages is always been directly related to his freedom of mobility… While it is impressive in size and scope, and for the new dimensions it presents an entertainment with purpose, no structure that could be built would be large enough to adequately symbolize the impact of the automobile on our American society.” The Universe of Energy and the World of Motion dedication wrapped up after a word from the sponsors and a choreographed dance to “We’ve Just Begun to Dream” with cast members adorned with their futuristic white and silver costumes.

Card Walker speaking at the EPCOT Computer Central dedication on October 18, 1982.

EPCOT Computer Central was dedicated on October 18 as a part of CommuniCore. Short for Community Core, it exhibited the newest technologies like contributing to a computer poll, designing a computerized Utopian community, and guiding a space shuttle back to Earth. EPCOT Computer Central specifically focused on the vitalness and creative power of computers, and Card backed that up in his dedication speech, where he observed that “The computer systems you will see here, in fact, help run a major portion of not only just EPCOT Center, but of all of Walt Disney World.” Other exhibits that were featured in CommuniCore were Energy Exchange, Electronic Forum, FutureCom, and TravelPort, with each one representing our collective footsteps into the future and what was just around the corner.

The Land pavilion focused on the future of agriculture, allowing guests to see up-to-the-minute agricultural techniques like hydroponics, intercropping, and aquaculture. The dedication ceremony on October 6 was a thrilling spectacle of country-themed music, captivating dancers, lively banjo players, and a harmonious group of singers. Card captured the feeling of the pavilion best in his dedication speech, where he observed, “Six acres under one roof that symbolizes our precious national treasure. The purpose of this pavilion is to demonstrate, in an entertaining way, how intelligent and constructive use of the land for agriculture will enable mankind to continue the centuries of progress that is our generation’s heritage.”

The entertainment for The American Adventure dedication on October 11, 1982.

As a permanent community of nations, World Showcase recreated architectural landmarks inspired by their real-world equivalents and brought the culture and diversity of each country’s pavilion to life. The countries represented at the opening of EPCOT Center were Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, the United States (The American Adventure), Italy, Germany, China, and Mexico, with each country receiving its own dedication across the month. Donn Tatum, future Disney Legend and senior executive, kicked off the World Showcase dedications with the China pavilion on October 3, which included many representatives from China in attendance. The Wonders of China film was an exciting partnership with the country of China, and Donn remarked that “We felt it was so important to have as part of the World Showcase when we opened a representation of that magnificent and diverse country, that we went ahead, and through extra effort, were able to accomplish it.” The next country to be dedicated would be The American Adventure on October 11 as a focal centerpiece for World Showcase at EPCOT Center. As the Georgian mansion stood as the dazzling backdrop, the dedication ceremony included an assortment of patriotic songs and dance with a balloon release and fireworks to welcome the new pavilion. On October 13, Canada would join in the festivities, complete with a musical group of Canadian Mounties, Canadian representatives, magnificent singers and dancers, and even a Siberian Husky.

The next country in line for the dedication ceremony was Italy on October 14, which also had a grand celebration of Italian music and dance along with a dove release and fireworks. During Italy’s dedication, Donn reinforced the feeling of a harmonious community in EPCOT Center by stating, “Within this EPCOT Center community, it has been our hope and our vision that in presenting the various nations of the world, we would be able to expose to the millions of people who will come here— the cultures, the traditions, the heritages, the ambitions, and the viewpoints, and the history of these various countries so as to promote hopefully in the world a better understanding among peoples.” The next day on October 15, fairy tale inspired Germany was dedicated with polka music, alphorn players, and yodelers. The United Kingdom was next in line for dedication on October 19, which included bagpipe players, a full orchestra with trumpeters, and live singers dressed in historical outfits. Both Japan and France were dedicated on October 20 and featured unique performances for both countries. Japan’s dedication was held during the day and was presented with a traditional Shinto ceremony and prayer for the pavilion. Meanwhile, France’s dedication was in the evening with a song and dance show set to an array of customary French music and fireworks.

The formal grand opening was held from October 22 through October 24, with an official Future World dedication on October 22, World Showcase on October 23, and the entirety of EPCOT Center on October 24. On October 23, EPCOT Center: The Opening Celebration aired on television and was hosted by Danny Kaye along with other sensational guests, including Drew Barrymore, Roy Clark, Marie Osmond, Eric Sevareid, Alan Shepard, the West Point Glee Club, and the All-American Marching Band. The program followed Danny Kaye in his grand tour of the brand-new EPCOT Center coupled with Kaye learning how the the overall project came to be from the announcement through construction.

Dreamfinder and Figment bring interviewed during the EPCOT Center Grand Opening and Dedication Ceremony.

On Sunday, October 24, 1982, the EPCOT Center Grand Opening and Dedication Ceremony commenced at 11 a.m. The West Point Glee Club and the All-American Marching Band performed again along with a precision flyover by the Florida Air National Guard. In addition to these entertaining moments, the International Ceremony of Waters was held as an illustrative moment of friendship and understanding among the countries where a symbolic blending of water from across the globe was poured into the fountain behind Spaceship Earth. With the can-do spirit, The Walt Disney Company (then called Walt Disney Productions) had accomplished what they had set out to do and achieved Walt Disney’s vision of an international community, imaginative attractions, and innovative technologies.

During this momentous event, Card Walker revealed the dedication plaque—which might sound a bit familiar from his October 1 opening dedication speech—and read it aloud to the audience: “To all who come to this place of joy, hope and friendship, welcome. EPCOT Center is inspired by Walt Disney’s creative genius. Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, the wonders of enterprise, and concepts of a future that promises new and exciting benefits for all. May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire. And, above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man’s ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere.”

Catch Some Z’s with Lightyear’s Sox—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Get a Good Night’s Sleep with Sox Sleep Sounds

What’s that? You’re looking to get some restorative, quality sleep but need some assistance to fall into that gentle slumber? Maybe in the form of an adorable feline robot? Look no further than Pixar’s official YouTube channel, where you can access the new Sox White Noise Machine—featuring the fan-favorite character from Disney and Pixar’s Lightyear!

After your nap, don’t forget to add Lightyear to your movie collection on Blu-ray and Digital! The animated sci-fi action-adventure is the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Chris Evans), the hero who inspired the toy. The film follows the legendary Space Ranger on an intergalactic adventure alongside three ambitious recruits—Izzy Hawthorne (voiced by Keke Palmer), Mo Morrison (voiced by Taika Waititi), and Darby Steel (voiced by Dale Soules)—and his robot companion Sox (voiced by Peter Sohn). As this motley crew embarks on their toughest mission yet, they must learn to collaborate to escape the evil Zurg (voiced by James Brolin) and his dutiful robot army.

Wanna find out more? Check out Disney Movie Insiders for further information!

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

Can you believe it? We’re knocking on the door of October—which means we can officially break out the candy corn and pumpkin-scented candles. (Admittedly, we’ve been enjoying both for weeks now.) As for what to watch this weekend from around the worlds of Disney… there’s the premiere of Huluween Dragstravaganzaon Hulu; a spellbinding new episode of The Villains of Valley View on Disney Channel; and so much more!

Promo images of three stars from Disney Branded Television’s upcoming Original Movie The Slumber Party. Darby Camp has red curly hair and is wearing a light blue sweater, leaning against a grey wall; Emmy Liu-Wang has dark hair in a ponytail and is wearing a jean jacket, and she’s set against a burgundy wall; and Valentina Herrera has dark hair and is wearing a blue zip-up sweater, and she’s set against a white background.

Disney Branded Television Orders Original Movie The Slumber Party

Earlier this week, Disney Branded Television announced it has ordered the Disney Original Movie The Slumber Party, based on the well-known teen novel The Sleepover by Jen Malone, from Imagine Kids+Family. Additionally, Disney announced the stars of the upcoming movie.

The Original Movie will star Darby Camp as Megan, Emmy Liu-Wang as Paige, Valentina Herrera as Anna Maria, and Dallas Liu as Mikey—along with newcomers Alex Cooper Cohen as Veronica and Ramon Rodriguez as Jake.

The Slumber Party follows the hilarious aftermath of a sleepover birthday party hypnotism gone wrong as best friends Megan and Paige, along with soon-to-be stepsister Veronica, wake up with absolutely no memory of the night before. Now they must retrace their steps to find missing birthday girl Anna Maria… and explain why there’s a flock of baby ducks in the bathtub; what happened to Megan’s left eyebrow; and why she’s wearing unattainable hottie Jake Ramirez’s signature black hoodie!

Production on the adventure-filled comedy began September 27 in Atlanta; stay tuned for more information on this sure-to-be-raucous romp as it becomes available.

Form a Calming Circle with Stars of Disney+’s Hocus Pocus 2

They’re just about ready to put a spell on you with the all-new sequel to the Halloween classic, and they gathered in New York City to skele-brate! See the stars of Hocus Pocus 2—Disney Legend Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy—as well as director Anne Fletcher, executive producer Adam Shankman, and more on the red carpet at the film’s recent premiere by clicking here.

In a promotional image for EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional, a large choir—decked out in yellow, green, and red robes—is seen on stage, behind an orchestra. The choir members in green robes are on risers so as to depict a “human” Christmas tree. A woman is at a lectern, telling the Christmas story. The background on stage is blue with faint white snowflakes, and at the top of the image you can see many stage lights hanging from the rafters.

EPCOT Candlelight Processional Celebrity Narrators Announced

Sure, we’re only just heading towards Halloween—but that doesn’t mean plans can’t be afoot for the holidays! Case in point: EPCOT recently announced the celebrity narrators for this year’s Candlelight Processional, held during the International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth—which returns November 25 through December 30, 2022.

This heartwarming production takes place nightly at the America Gardens Theatre and features celebrity narrators retelling the Christmas story accompanied by the Voices of Liberty a capella ensemble, a 50-piece live orchestra with herald trumpets, and glorious massed choirs comprised of Disney cast members and local community groups.

This year’s lineup of award-winning actors, singers, and TV personalities features several celebrity narrators making their Candlelight debut—along with many returning fan favorites. Additional celebrity narrators will continue to be added to the lineup over the coming weeks.

  • November 25–26: Simu Liu (NEW)
  • November 27–29: Edward James Olmos
  • November 30–December 1: Raul Esparza (NEW)
  • December 2–3: Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg
  • December 4–6: Isabella Rossellini
  • December 7–9: Daymond John (NEW)
  • December 10–12: Disney Legend Josh Gad (NEW)
  • December 13–14: Gloria Estefan (NEW)
  • December 15–18: Neil Patrick Harris
  • December 19–20: Mariska Hargitay (NEW)
  • December 21–23: Cal Ripken Jr.
  • December 24–26: Marie Osmond
  • December 27–28: Courtney Vance
  • December 29–30: Angela Bassett

Candlelight Processional dining packages will be available to reserve starting October 6. With a dining package, guests can enjoy a leisurely meal at a select EPCOT restaurant and guaranteed seating at one of the performances later that same day. To see the full lineup of artists, performance dates, and dining package pricing, and to make a dining package reservation, guests can visit EPCOTholidays.com.

Unwrapping the Secrets of Under Wraps 2

With Under Wraps 2 coming to Disney+ today, why not read up on all the behind-the-screams fun, courtesy the Disney Channel Original Movie’s cast? D23 spoke exclusively with Malachi Barton, Sophia Hammons, Christian J. Simon, and more—see what they had to say by clicking here.

In a promotional image for Walt Disney World’s After Hours events returning in January 2023, three people are seen sitting in front of the Sunset Showcase marquee at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, at night. The man on the left is wearing a tan button-up shirt and a Pluto hat; the man in the middle is wearing a chambray shirt; and the woman on the right is wearing a cream and red striped shirt and rose gold Minnie Mouse ears, while holding a Mickey-shaped ice cream treat.

Walt Disney World After Hours Events Return in January

Big news: Disney After Hours events are finally returning to Walt Disney World Resort this January! These fan-fave experiences are scheduled to kick off January 4 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and January 9 at Magic Kingdom Park.

The extra hours evenings offer an incredible way to experience even more Disney magic, especially during the last months of The World’s Most Magical Celebration honoring Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary. These late-night, separately ticketed events let guests enjoy each park for three additional hours after regular park closing, with treats such as ice cream, popcorn, and select beverages included.

Best of all, the number of tickets for these events is limited, which means lower wait times for attractions… At Magic Kingdom, guests will be able to enjoy more than 20 popular attractions including Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Meanwhile, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can pilot the Millennium Falcon in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, ride through a zany cartoon adventure in Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, shrink to the size of a toy in Toy Story Land, and more.

Disney After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are scheduled for select nights, January 4 through April 19, 2023, and at Magic Kingdom for select nights January 9 through March 27, 2023. For a full list of events, dates, and times—and to purchase tickets—visit the Disney After Hours page at DisneyWorld.com.

Entertainment, available attractions, and experiences are subject to change.

ICYMI: Meet the Original High School Musical Stars Joining the Cast of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4

Wildcats, did you hear the news?! There are some very familiar faces returning to East High! Find out which original High School Musical stars will be returning to their old stomping grounds in the new season of Disney+’s hit series High School Musical: The Musical: The Series right here at D23.com… and get ready to “getcha head in the game!”

Meet the New Characters of Hocus Pocus 2

By Zach Johnson

They’re back, witches!

The delightfully wicked Sanderson sisters will run amuck, amuck, amuck (again!) when the Disney+ Original movie Hocus Pocus 2 debuts this Friday, exclusively on Disney+. Directed by Anne Fletcher, the live-action comedy stars Disney Legend Bette Midler as Winifred, Sarah Jessica Parker as Sarah, and Kathy Najimy as Mary. It’s been 29 years since someone lit the Black Flame Candle and resurrected the 17th-century sisters—and now that they’re back, well, there’s hell to pay. So, it’s up to three teens to stop the witches from wreaking a new kind of havoc in Salem before dawn on All Hallow’s Eve. Get to know the trio—plus a few more characters—before the sequel premieres.

Becca (Whitney Peak)
Becca is an independent and spirited high school student who is drawn to the art of witchcraft. Each year on her birthday, she ventures into Salem’s Forbidden Woods to set her intentions for the upcoming year. This year, to celebrate her 16th birthday, Becca and her best friend, Izzy, light a Black Flame Candle, unaware of its actual power.

Izzy (Belissa Escobedo)
Cheerful and optimistic, Izzy is best friends with Becca and Cassie—even though Cassie has been M.I.A. for the past few months, much to Izzy’s dismay. “Izzy is that friend who wants everything to go seamlessly,” Escobedo says. “She wants everyone to be happy and for it to just be like it was when they were kids. They have always done everything together, so Izzy sees Becca and Cassie as her family. They are like her sisters.”

Cassie (Lilia Buckingham)
The daughter of overprotective Mayor Jeffrey Traske, Cassie was super close with Becca and Izzy... that is, until she began dating Mike recently. “Cassie has been spending more and more time with her boyfriend, but she misses Becca and Izzy, who have been her best friends for as long as she can remember,” Buckingham says. “She is sweet and good-natured but is having trouble communicating with those closest to her and has been unable to convey her true feelings towards the two girls as a result.”

Gilbert (Sam Richardson)
Gilbert is the curator and owner of the Olde Salem Magic Shoppe—aka the former Sanderson home, which has been turned into a museum and gift shop. Gilbert is a “big, big fan” of the sisters, Escobedo says in the Fall 2022 issue of Disney twenty-three. In fact, it’s Gilbert who tells Becca and Izzy that a witch gets her powers on her 16th birthday—and who gives them the Black Flame Candle. Lighting it and bringing back the witches is accidental, Escobedo says: “They don’t know what they’re doing.”

 Reverend Traske and Mayor Traske (Tony Hale)
Hale plays the dual roles of Reverend Traske in 1653 and Mayor Traske in the present day. The Reverend is Salem’s spiritual leader—but he also is unpleasant, judgmental, and surprisingly skittish. His self-righteous declarations and meddlesome antics force the Sanderson sisters, then young girls, to hide in the Forbidden Woods, where they meet The Witch Mother, who gives Winifred the Book of Spells. Mayor Traske, by contrast, is a happy-go-lucky, somewhat edgy politician who is obsessed with candy apples—like, really obsessed. Also a loving and strict father to Cassie, he inadvertently becomes the focus of the Sanderson sisters’ wrath when they notice how much he resembles Reverend Traske. 

Hannah Waddingham, in character as The Witch Mother, stands alone in the Forbidden Woods of Salem. She wears a crimson red dress, which has a pleated skirt, as well as a print of an eye inside a sunburst on her midriff. Her black cape is feathered and includes red and yellow feathers around the color. She has her right arm raised just below her chain, exposing her gold jewelry. She has a curious expression on her face.

The Witch Mother (Hannah Waddingham)
In the mid-1600s, The Witch Mother roams the Forbidden Woods of Salem in search of children, whom she relies on for her youthful appearance. At 400 years old—though she doesn’t look it!—she is lonely and misses the witches from her own coven. “The Witch Mother is the all-powerful witch who gives the Book of Spells to young Winifred on that fateful night when she leaves Salem in the 1600s and runs with her sisters into the woods to escape the Reverend. The Book immediately takes to Winifred,” producer Lynn Harris says. “Witch Mother recognizes that Winifred is special and has powers, and it is at that moment that Winifred becomes who she is as a witch in the world.”

Mike (Froy Gutierrez)
A lovable if not slightly gullible jock, Mike recently began dating Cassie—and he encourages her to throw an epic Halloween party, despite her father’s objections. It’s just one more example of why his relationship with Cassie rubs Becca the wrong way...

Celebrating 40 Years of EPCOT

By Courtney Potter

Friday, October 1, 1982: “To all who come to this place of joy, hope, and friendship, welcome,” said then-Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company (and future Disney Legend) Card Walker at a brand-new Walt Disney World Resort park’s dedication. “EPCOT is inspired by Walt Disney’s creative vision. Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, wonders of enterprise, and concepts of a future that promises new and exciting benefits for all.”

He continued, “May EPCOT Center entertain, inform, and inspire—and above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man’s ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere.”

EPCOT, the acronym, was coined by Walt Disney in 1966; standing for “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,” the term was used to illustrate his interest in exploring a futuristic hamlet on a plot of land in Florida. To this day, it’s clear that two words in that acronym are still of huge importance: “community” and “tomorrow”... as evidenced by the transformation the park is currently undergoing, including the just-opened Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and the amazing neighborhoods unifying the park.

Card Walker, then-Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company (and future Disney Legend), at the lectern at the opening ceremonies for EPCOT on October 1, 1982. He’s wearing a grey suit. Spaceship Earth is seen in the background, as are some palm trees. The former EPCOT Center logo is seen on the lectern.

Recently, D23 was lucky enough to chat with several EPCOT notables about the past, present, and future of the beloved park... from favorite memories to what excites them most about what’s to come:

Scott Mallwitz, Executive Creative Director, Walt Disney Imagineering, on what makes the park so special—and how a new neighborhood like World Celebration fits into its ever-distinctive ideals:
“EPCOT is a park about people and their connections to distinct cultures, our extraordinary planet, and a shared belief in a better future. It’s a place that connects and amplifies the human experience. World Celebration is designed to focus these connections, creating space for guests to be immersed in personal expressions of art, performance, and food from across the globe.

“It’s a special place—a place that has always ‘been in a state of becoming.’ Our design team is thrilled by the opportunities and challenges of this historic transformation. As we continue to reveal pieces like Connections Café, Creations Shop, and the new Entry Plaza, we can see the future of this park come to life... In fact, in my EPCOT future vision, I anticipate increased connectivity, personalization, and customization. The key is creating spaces and opportunity today that allow for future activations that make use of attractions, entertainment, festivals, and food experiences. Technology will be utilized to deepen these shared experiences—and create more powerful connections with the people and stories of EPCOT.

“So stay tuned—there is much more to come; we cannot wait to reveal the entirety of World Celebration!”

Kartika Rodriguez, Vice President, EPCOT Operations, on the incredible inspiration the park provides:
“A recent memory I have is seeing a small child—probably about 7 years old—who had just finished visiting our new restaurant, Space 220. And they were really excited about the experience. But what I heard them say was, ‘I want to be an astronaut when I grow up.’ So when I think about this park in the future, for me, it’s about continuing to create memories for our families obviously—but it’s also about continuing to inspire. Whether that inspires curiosity to learn about the science and technology aspects of the world; whether that’s to beinspired, to understand different cultures or to go visit a place themselves; or to understand nature, talking about the beauty of our environment and our role in how we impact it, like with Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana... All those things—about bringing people together, understanding how we play together, how we work together—it’s about inspiring the next set of engineers or environmentalists or architects.

“As far as the next 40 years, I see EPCOT continuing to evolve—and I see us looking for ways to continue to excite and wow our guests.”

An image from the 1997 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, on a bright sunny day. The name of the festival is seen in white sparkly letters on a flowered arch over a display of light pink flowers, as well as a topiary shaped like Sorcerer Mickey and three broom figures from Fantasia.

Dave Kesting, General Manager, EPCOT Food & Beverage, on how the festivals have evolved to become fan-favorite events—including one delicious example:
“One component we hit on by accident, for Festival of the Holidays, is—we thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be fun if we did a little bake shop?’ So, we did a concept called The Cookie Nook—and our chef, Chef Crystal, made a thousand cookies. We thought that was gonna get us through the whole day, but the person who sent them out gets a call an hour later, saying, ‘I need a thousand more cookies.’ They said, ‘No, I sent you a thousand cookies.’ The people at The Cookie Nook said, ‘No, we sold a thousand cookies. We need a thousand morecookies!’ And that turned into what’s now known as the Cookie Stroll, where it’s a ‘completer’ activity where people get to dine around and taste different cookies and they get a fun prize at the end. And we went from a thousand cookies a day to last year, we sold over a quarter a million cookies because it was so popular with guests.

“Every festival is different—and when people say, ‘I'm going to a festival,’ they at least know there's going to be some kind of ‘anchor’ entertainment; there’s going to be unique merchandise that goes along with it; there’s going to be some unique family experiences. And then, at the same time, the food's going to be different. Every festival is unique. It keeps it fresh.”

Jackie Herrera, Producer, Collections Management, Walt Disney Imagineering, on how the different EPCOT exhibits and galleries add to the unique mystique of the park:
“Like most things at WDI, we start with brainstorming. We find a great story that we think our guests would really enjoy and we develop an exhibit around it. From there we begin our research and work with cultural consultants. I’ve said in the past that working on one of these exhibits is like taking a college class; our team really immerses itself in research and talking to as many people as we can that have the knowledge we want to share with our guests.

“In the galleries around World Showcase, we exhibit real artifacts to tell the stories of different cultures around the world. So much of what we do at Walt Disney World is created from imagination and new technology—but the galleries are a tangible representation of people around the world. Whether our story is told with historical antiquities or contemporary objects, those items are real and authentically represent the people of that country... The gallery program at WDI is so diverse in the stories we tell and the different artifacts we get to work with, I’m doing something new every single day of my career.” 

Tom Fitzgerald, Creative Portfolio Executive, Walt Disney Imagineering, on 40 incredible years of memories from working at EPCOT and what the future holds:
“It’s hard to believe that four decades have passed since EPCOT Center opened its doors. For me, it’s been an incredible journey—starting with CommuniCore, then leading to Horizons, Spaceship Earth scripts, and numerous films and shows. I love this park and was fortunate to have been inspired and mentored by [Disney Legends] Marty Sklar, Xavier “X” Atencio, John Hench, and other incredible Imagineering icons in those early days... Over the decades, as my role changed, I’ve had a chance to work on updating several of the original World Showcase shows, from the American Adventure to Mexico and the Circle-Vision films at China and Canada pavilions. More recently, I helped guide the transformation efforts for EPCOT—including the World Showcase story.

“Walt Disney promised that EPCOT would ‘always be in a state of becoming.’ As we look to the future, our Imagineering team is continuing to dream up new shows, attractions, and experiences that will support EPCOT’s vision of Walt’s celebration of our world and its promise—A world of discovery; of nature; of cultures; of people; and optimism for the future.”

Artist rendering of World Celebration from EPCOT’s current transformation. Spaceship Earth is seen at the top of the image, and below it there is lush, green space for guests to relax. The central location will also include Communicore Hall and Communicore Plaza.

Zach Riddley, Creative Portfolio Executive / New Experience Development, Walt Disney Imagineering, on where EPCOT goes from here:
“EPCOT has always been about big ideas that inspire. Walt’s original vision for EPCOT—Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow—was a living city at the center of his ‘Florida Project’ that would have housed R&D labs, experimental technologies, homes, and new modes of transportation and urban living that would be a test bed for new American communities. That idea evolved in the years after Walt’s passing and as the company built and then expanded Walt Disney World Resort. The spirit of Walt’s idea for EPCOT inspired the park Imagineers opened in 1982 and our teams today—a park dedicated to big ideas that inspire potential, that inspire possibility.

“We are staying true to that original spirit in the ideas we are bringing to EPCOT in this unprecedented transformation... EPCOT’s ideas will never go out of style as long as they serve to inspire—and I like to think at its essence that was Walt’s idea all along.”

5 Things You Need to Know About Hocus Pocus 2

By Zach Johnson

Come, sisters! We fly!

This Friday, the highly anticipated film Hocus Pocus 2 will debut exclusively on Disney+, bringing back the Sanderson sisters for another night of mischief and mayhem. Earlier this week, actors Disney Legend Bette Midler (Winifred Sanderson), Kathy Najimy (Mary Sanderson), Whitney Peak (Becca), Belissa Escobedo (Izzy), Lilia Buckingham (Cassie), Doug Jones (Billy Butcherson), and Sam Richardson (Gilbert), as well as director Anne Fletcher, executive producer Adam Shankman, and producer Lynn Harris, shared behind-the-scenes details about the spook-tacular sequel during a virtual press conference. Read on for highlights before you stream the movie.

1. The cast always wanted to do a sequel—even before it was officially in the works.
Over the years, the principal cast members often said they would jump at the chance to reprise their roles—but, in some cases, they weren’t so sure it would ever happen. “I didn’t [think the movie would be made] until the day finally came,” Midler said. “And then I realized, ‘Oh, we’re really going to do this.’ This was kind of a dream come true.”

From left to right: Whitney Peak, Lilia Buckingham, and Belissa Escobedo in character as Becca, Cassie, and Izzy, respectively. Becca is looking straight ahead, while Cassie looks to Izzy, who is speaking. Becca is wearing a striped shirt, a green sweater and matching pants, and a burgundy vest. Cassie is wearing a pink tie-dye shirt, pink sweatpants, and an oversized sweater. Izzy is wearing red-framed glasses, a plaid shirt, and red sweater.

2. The new director brings a fresh take to the Sanderson sisters’ story.
Disney Legend Kenny Ortega helmed the first film in 1993, which is now a cultural phenomenon. Adam Shankman was set to direct the sequel, but ultimately decided to direct Disenchanted instead; he remained on as an executive producer and suggested Fletcher, a longtime friend of his and a handful of cast members, should take the reins. “This is like my fourth or fifth project with Anne,” Najimy said. “She was one of the hugest reasons that we got through this thing. She is one of the best people, one of the best directors, one of the best artists ever in the world. I’m madly in love with her.”

3. Working with Hocus Pocus veterans was surreal for the new cast members.
Peak, Escobedo, and Buckingham were major fans of the original Hocus Pocus, so to be cast in the sequel and to share the screen with Midler, Parker, and Najimy was a spellbinding experience. “I don’t think I really had any expectations. I was just happy to have a job,” Buckingham said. “It was the coolest thing. I found out I booked the role when we were all on Zoom together. Right when we hopped off and we were done screaming, I fell to my knees and I was like, ‘Finally!’ I was supposed to be moving into college in two weeks [before production began], so it was a huge life change. But it was the best thing I could have asked for. I worked with legends and learned so much, and I made best friends along the way, too… I’m very grateful. This is a fabulous team.”

Doug Jones, in character as the zombie Billy Butcherson, stands in a doorway. His hair is messy and his lips are sewn shut, and he is wearing tattered 17th-century style clothing. He is backlight by a yellow light. Assorted merchandise is just inside the door.

4. Sisterhood is a running theme throughout the film and the franchise.
“We talked a lot about leaning on each other and counting on each other, and [showing] loyalty to each other,” Midler said. “There’s so much going on in this world that we never really realized until maybe in the last 25, 30, maybe 50 years. Things have changed for women—but things have not changed fast enough for women. And I think these three characters are really, in a strange and an odd way, quite positive for women. First of all, they’re very funny, which women are not allowed to be—or are not supposed to be. And they’re intensely loyal to each other, even though their relationships are [complicated]. It’s a very broad range of emotions they live through. In a funny way, their bond is very strong. In any situation where women are together that bond of friendship and of sisterhood is really important. This movie sort of shores it up.”

5. No one knows how to play a zombie quite like Doug Jones.
To reprise his role as Billy Butcherson, Jones spent about two hours each day in hair and makeup. “The prosthetic pieces are made ahead of time, so getting them on me is the last step,” he explained. “I got to hide behind a layer of rubber.” The role is “very physical,” Jones added. “I was 32 when I played him the first time. I was 61 playing him the second time—a big difference. My first scene in the movie is stumbling up a staircase into a doorway. I’m like, [gasp], ‘I don’t remember it being this tiring before!’”

Top Coffee Drinks to Try at Disneyland Resort for National Coffee Day

By Sarah Sterling

Today is National Coffee Day—and sometimes even the most seasoned theme park visitor needs a pick-me-up! We’ve compiled a list of some of the most unique, delicious, and (most importantly) caffeinated beverages at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park to help you celebrate this brew-tiful day.

Disneyland Park

Jolly Holiday Bakery Café
What’s better than taking in the sights and sounds of Main Street, U.S.A. with a fresh coffee and a Matterhorn Macaroon? Have a supercalifragilisticexpiali-delicious morning at Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, where you can enjoy a variety of iced or hot coffee beverages like espresso, lattes, and macchiatos.

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo
Right now, the talk of the town—or should we say galaxy—at Disneyland Resort is the wildly popular Cold Brew Black Caf! This iced cold brew is served at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and comes topped with sweet cream cheese and chocolate puffs.

If you’ve already tried the classic Black Caf, stop by to try the latest iteration: Cold Brew Black Caf with Taro Topper! A twist on the original, this version has a sweet taro cream topping.

Maurice’s Treats
In a rush for a caffeine jolt? Head to Maurice’s Treats inside Fantasy Faire, where the lines are short but the coffee is strong! Maurice is serving up his very own Nitro Cold Brew, which is a classic rich cold brew coffee infused with nitrogen to give the drink a smooth finish.

Disney California Adventure

Cappuccino Cart presented by Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co.
The Cappuccino Cart recently re-opened with a new selection of beverages from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co.! Joffrey’s is the official specialty coffee provider for Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and Disney Vacation Club. If you visit Florida frequently, you’ve surely seen Joffrey’s kiosks throughout the parks—and we’re so excited to see this fan favorite come to Disney California Adventure in a big way! The Cappuccino Cart serves a selection of espresso drinks, cold brews, teas, and baked goods.

Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat while you get your caffeine fix, Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop is the place for you. Take your pick of indulgent Ghirardelli chocolate treats—from sundaes, shakes, and ice cream cones to delectable coffee concoctions! Mochas and lattes are made with Ghirardelli’s signature Frappe Mix, chocolate sauce, espresso, and all the toppings you could ever want.

Cozy Cone Motel – Cone 1
A recommendation for adults 21 and over looking to get their fix on Route 66: Head to Cars Land for a special Espresso Cocktail! Available at Cone 1 (the churro cone), the Espresso Cocktail contains vodka, Irish cream, coffee liqueur, espresso, vanilla syrup, and almond milk. There’s a latte to love in this delicious drink!

Starbucks (Disneyland & Disney California Adventure)
Finally, if you’re in the mood for your tried-and-true coffee order, you can find Starbucks locations at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, as well as Downtown Disney District. At Disneyland, you can visit Starbucks at Market House on Main Street, U.S.A.; at Disney California Adventure, Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café on Buena Vista Street is where you can find your perfect blend.

Whether you like your coffee sweet, strong, or with a dash of spirit, you can find it all at Disneyland Resort. Let us know your favorite coffee spot at the Parks—and have a very happy National Coffee Day!

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

By Andie Hagemann

From devious villains to a spooktacular drag special, this weekend is jam-packed with fantastical content. On Saturday, don’t miss Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, airing on Freeform, followed by a presentation of Iron Man on FX and the premiere of Huluween Dragstravaganza on Hulu. Watch Disney Parks decorate for Halloween with Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic, airing Sunday on Freeform, as well as a spellbinding new episode of The Villains of Valley View on Disney Channel.

A skeleton-like man wears a red Santa Claus suit and hat, both with white fur piping. Behind him is a stone fireplace with three stockings hanging from the mantle. A young boy faces the skeleton and holds a large present. He wears blue, plaid pajamas. A tall green Christmas tree is in the righthand corner of the room. It is lit with red, yellow, and green lights.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas—Saturday, October 1, at 1:25 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform 

Attention all ghosts and ghouls because Freeform’s “31 Nights of Halloween” kicks off with this boo-loved classic. Halloweentown’s pumpkin king Jack Skellington (voiced by Chris Sarandon) is bored with his annual routine of frightening people in the real world. However, when Jack accidentally discovers Christmastown, he plots to take over Christmas and assume the role of Santa Claus. The all-star voice cast includes Catherine O’Hara as Sally, Glenn Shadix as the Mayor, William Hickey as Dr. Finkelstein, and Ken Page as Oogie Boogie.

Disney Legend Robert Downey Jr. stands with his arms extend outward. He is surrounded with desert-like terrain with a large mountain range seen in the distance. He wears a dark blue suit with a white pinstripes, blue patterned tie, and white shirt. He also wears large sunglasses.

Iron Man—Saturday, October 1, at 2 p.m. ET/PT on FX

Billionaire and genius inventor Tony Stark (Disney Legend Robert Downey Jr.) is conducting weapons tests abroad when he’s kidnapped by terrorists. Instead of complying with their demands to build a devastating weapon, he builds an armored suit to overtake his captors. Upon returning to the United States, Stark uses the suits to fight crime as Iron Man.

Drag queen Lady Bunny holds her hands up in shock and mouth agape. She wears black gloves with blood splattered on them and a loose white blouse under a gold jumper.

Huluween Dragstravaganza (2022)—Saturday, October 1, on Hulu

Two world-famous drag superstars, Ginger Minj and Monét X Change, are trapped in the TV—and the only way out is to host a special. Jam-packed with wit and incredible looks, the show features Mo Heart, Jujubee, Manila Luzon, Lady Bunny, Jackie Beat, Selene Luna, Landon Cider, and Mario Diaz. But that’s not all! Recording artist Kesha performs, all while this amazing troupe of queens and kings takes the stage in original musical numbers, sketch comedy, and more.

A woman wears a black shirt, green work vest, and green helmet. She stands next to a cement pole adorned with a large wreath with fall leaves and orange pumpkin. Three adults stand around a tall cement pole as they hang a large fall wreath. They wear black shirts and green work vests along with green helmets. 

Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic—Sunday, October 2, on Freeform

Ever wondered how Disney Parks becomes boo-tiful? Well, this beloved special is a behind-the-scenes look at how Disney Parks transforms for the spooky season. Watch cast members add pumpkins, ghosts, and other delights to the magical destinations.

Actors Isabella Pappas, Reed Horstmann, and Mariah Iman Wilson stand facing each other. Pappas wears a large gray wig and dress. Horstmann wears a pumpkin costume that appears to look like it is exploding. Behind them is a table with candy and orange tablecloth. Wilson wears a shiny yellow-gold dress with large puffy sleeves.

The Villains of Valley View—Sunday, October 2, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel

It’s Halloween in Valley View and there’s no shortage of tricks and hijinks. Amy (Isabella Pappas) brings her mischievous body-snatching grandma to a party. Meanwhile, Vic (James Patrick Stuart) and Eva (Lucy Davis) scam kids out of their candy until they come across a villain even bigger than themselves.

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!

As a member of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, you know your magic! This week we’re putting your Hocus Pocus knowledge to the test to see if you are the ultimate Disney fan.

Why was Hocus Pocus released in July instead of October?

Correct! Wrong!

Hocus Pocus was released in July so it would not compete with Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!
You are the ultimate Disney fan!
Looks like you are a Disney expert! Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge. We’ll see you next week for your chance to uphold your title as the ultimate Disney fan!
Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!
Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge! These questions are tricky, so don’t stop swimming yet. We’ll see you next week for your chance to earn the title of the ultimate Disney fan!

The Magic Continues with the D23 Expo Shop by Mickey’s of Glendale

Mickey’s of Glendale, the Walt Disney Imagineering campus store, created an exclusive shop for D23 Expo 2022, bringing together the worlds of Disney and kicking off The Walt Disney Company’s Disney100 celebration. D23 Gold Members now have the chance to shop these D23 Expo exclusives through an amazing online event!

The event is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at 7 a.m. PT.

You must be signed in as a D23 Gold Member in order to access this online event.

Take your Disney fandom to the next level

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Annual Collector Set.
Can't-miss events.
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Exclusive discounts.
The Ultimate Disney Fan Community.

JOIN TODAY

 

D23 Expo Shop by Mickey’s of Glendale

Mickey’s of Glendale joined forces with D23: The Official Disney Fan Club to present a one-of-a kind collection of D23 Expo 2022 official merchandise.

D23 EXPO 2022 LOGO CAP– This baseball cap with platinum liquid metal Mickey Mouse patch is the perfect way to show you were at D23 Expo, the Ultimate Fan Event.

D23 EXPO 2022 HOODIE– Celebrate D23 Expo, the Ultimate Disney Fan Event, and the start of the Disney100 celebration with this White Tech Full Zip Hood. Features contrast sleeve insert and tonal embroidered Mickey Mouse on the pocket.

D23 EXPO 2022 DENIM VARSITY JACKET– If you’re the Ultimate Disney Fan, then this Denim Varsity Jacket is a must-have. Custom stripe knit ribbed cuffs, collar, Mickey Mouse printed on the back, and a bit of magic with D23 Expo adorning the sleeve in rhinestones.

D23 EXPO 2022 PUZZLE– Piece together the Magic of D23 Expo 2022 with this 500-piece puzzle featuring Mickey Mouse.

WONDERFUL WORLD OF DREAMS LOGO TEE – Walt Disney once said, “We keep moving forward—opening up new doors and doing new things—because we’re curious. And curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”  Wear the quote and become the dreamer.

WONDERFUL WORLD OF DREAMS MUG- Start your day off by staying curious and dreaming big with this mug featuring Walt the Dreamer looking out across some of the most recognizable park icons.

SHOP NOW

*D23 Expo Shop by Mickey’s of Glendale is available only to D23 Gold Members and will be available for purchases starting October 4, 2022—while supplies last. Must enter your D23 Gold Membership number to be eligible to purchase. Only one order per D23 Gold Member; any duplicate orders will be cancelled. Items not eligible for additional promotional discounts or offers. Offer subject to restrictions and change without notice. Void where prohibited.

Stars Run Amuck, Amuck, Amuck at Hocus Pocus 2 Premiere

By Andie Hagemann

The cast and filmmakers from Disney’s Hocus Pocus 2 were in frightfully good spirits at the premiere of the Disney+ Original live-action comedy and haunting sequel to the Halloween classic at AMC Lincoln Square Cinemas in New York City.

In attendance were the film’s stars, including Disney Legend Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Sam Richardson, Doug Jones, Tony Hale, Froy Gutierrez, Whitney Peak, Belissa Escobedo, Lilia Buckingham, Taylor Henderson, Nina Kitchen, Juju Brenner, Kahmora Hall, and Ginger. Director Anne Fletcher, screenwriter Jen D’Angelo, producer Lynn Harris, and executive producer Adam Shankman, along with guests Kristin Chenoweth, Sunny Hostin, and Ralph Macchio also walked the purple carpet. Hocus Pocus 2 premieres Friday, September 30, exclusively on Disney+.

“I’ve waited a long time,” Midler said, “we all did—me, Kathy, and Sarah Jessica. It’s been something that we’ve always wanted to do. Every now and again when we’d see each other, we’d agitate and wring our hands, and finally our dream came true.”

Added Parker, “The longevity of this particular film in people’s lives and the generational transition is very touching, and I think we all feel very lucky.”

It’s been 29 years since someone lit the Black Flame Candle and resurrected the 17th-century Sanderson sisters, and they are looking for revenge. Now it is up to three high-school students to stop the ravenous witches from wreaking a new kind of havoc on Salem before dawn on All Hallow’s Eve.

“The love for Hocus Pocus is infectious,” Fletcher said. “You can see [that,] with all these gorgeous people dressed up as our Sanderson sisters. We made this sequel for the fans, and they showed up in droves. They love these witches. Who can’t help but love them? They’re amazing.”

See more photos from premiere by clicking the photo below: