Meet the Winning 3 Happy Haunts of This Year’s D23 Expo Design Challenge

July 12, 2019

by Karina Schink

This year’s D23 Expo Design Challenge celebrates the Haunted Mansion’s 50th anniversary. We welcomed all foolish mortals to enter the challenge, and 23 made it through to the final judging (and you’ll be able to view all of them at D23 Expo 2019!).

Now, please drag your cursor to the dead center of the page and scroll to see the three finalists of this year’s D23 Expo Design Challenge.

We congratulate Jeremy Gatlin, who was named winner with his piece “Flip Side of Phantom Manor.” Jeremy’s work features a look at the Phantom Manor from Disneyland Paris. It comes complete with stained glass windows and a Phantom lurking around the side.

Two runners-up also received trophies along with Jeremy. Runner-up Jason Bitter submitted his piece “Jackbox Ghost,” an eerie take on a classic jack-in-the-box, Haunted Mansion-style.

Runner-up Mary Nesnay’s spookily sartorial creation “Ghost Host Coat” gives our favorite narrator a bit of style.

The panel of judges for the D23 Expo Design Challenge includes Tom Fitzgerald, creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering; Kevin Lively, story editor at Walt Disney Imagineering; Jeffrey Shaver-Moskowitz, executive portfolio producer at Walt Disney Imagineering; and Juleen Woods, Park IP content planning coordinator at Walt Disney Imagineering.

Jeremy received a prize of $2,300 and complimentary tickets to D23 Expo 2019.

Get a look at all 23 ghoulish delights below, and view them all in person at D23 Expo 2019. Do not insist on lagging behind!

7 Grand Reasons to Visit the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

July 11, 2019

By Beth Deitchman

Along the shores of Walt Disney World’s Lago Dorado, a jewel shines especially brightly this week with the opening of the Gran Destino Tower—the culmination of a multiyear reimagining of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Throughout the resort, whose name translates from Spanish, appropriately, to “crowned one,” guests will find nods to the rich cultures and vibrant landscapes of Spain, Mexico, and the American Southwest. The new 15-story tower adds to the distinctive style of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, where contemporary design and old-world traditions are seamlessly blended, and where the adventurous spirit of world travelers, innovative artists, and enchanting storytellers can be felt around every turn. In addition to the new 545-room tower, guests will also discover new restaurants, innovative technology, and so many spectacular details. Here are seven reasons why it is every Disney fan’s “great destiny” to immerse themselves in the new Gran Destino Tower and check out what’s new at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort:

1. The Gran Destino Tower pays homage to a classic Disney film.
Initially begun in 1945—and finally completed in 2003—the surrealistic animated short Destino features striking, unconventional visual design. The Gran Destino Tower is equally whimsical, with a fresh, sophisticated color palate, dramatic nighttime lighting, eclectic patterns, and—of course—plenty of unexpected Disney touches.

2. Guests will marvel at the intricate details of the tower’s two-story lobby.
Designed in the Catalan Modernism style, the expansive lobby features intricate wooden screens with rows of Moorish hanging lanterns, as well as decorative bronze screens that are inspired by the patterns often seen in Spanish tilework (and give the lobby a warm and inviting glow).

3. Old World touches—and the latest technology—in every guest room.
Each room boasts a wall covering that’s inspired by Spanish tile medallions. But in addition to this artistic nod to a bygone era, the guest rooms are all equipped with a new interactive television system to enhance the guest experience during a stay. View PhotoPass images, enjoy favorite Disney content, stream from personal devices, or plan your next Disney adventure from the comfort of your room.

4. Café, Catalonia-style
Just off the lobby, the sunny Barcelona Lounge is a perfect spot to wile away the day, beginning with café-con-leche and pastries in the morning, and continuing into the later hours, as the early-morning espresso bar transitions to offer artisanal cocktails—some of which are created with the lounge’s impressive collection of international gins. Be sure to try the signature orange- and saffron-infused Gran Gin Tonic. The lounge is also a treat for the eyes, with sculpted columns, a magnificent chandelier, and large murals (including art featuring Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse).

5. Tapas with a view.
In the 1920s and ’30s, avant-garde writers and artists flocked to Tolédo. The Spanish city inspired their craft, and it now inspires Gran Destino Tower’s dramatic rooftop restaurant, Tolédo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood. Under a spectacular ceiling with dramatic stained-glass accents, guests can enjoy a menu that’s full of the most authentic tastes of Spain—from chuletón, a 32-ounce ribeye that’s intended to be shared, to tapas, which are prepared in an onstage kitchen and include Spanish cheeses, charcuteríá, and small plates. The adjacent Dahlia Lounge offers Spanish wines and an extensive cocktail menu that complements the unforgettable décor, which is inspired by the short film. The name of the lounge is based on Destino’s heroine, Dahlia, and the metal bell accents, ceiling coffers that may remind guests of flowing hair, and chandeliers resembling dandelions all hark back to the short, as well. Also look for Spanish Modernist patterns throughout Dahlia Lounge while you mix and mingle and enjoy great views 15 stories above Walt Disney World.

6. Libations on the Lake
A trio of crossings converge at Three Bridges Bar & Grill, which sits in the center of the lake at Villa del Lago, an “island” of one-story buildings at the Resort. Culinary offerings at the romantic, open-air setting include signature sangría pitchers, plates to share, as well as sandwiches and entrees—not to mention sweet sendoffs to the dining experience (with desserts that include a very familiar-shaped vanilla custard Mickey tart, with compressed pineapple and tropical sorbet). Guests may come for the lakefront ambiance, but they’ll stay for the Spanish-American-inspired cuisine.

7. Can you dig it?
Just across the new bridges spanning Lago Dorado, guests will find the Dig Site—a can’t miss aquatic area that’s themed to Mayan ruins. A 50-foot replica of a Mayan pyramid towers over all, and the iconic Coronado Springs flow down its steps into an expansive pool, while a spitting Jaguar Slide provides thrills for guests of all ages. The Dig Site is also home to the Walt Disney World Resort’s largest outdoor hot tub: You and 21 of your closest friends and family can partake in the fun. Water runs through Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort—literally and figuratively. Water can be found in many of the design motifs, a natural complement to the resort’s 15-acre lake, Lago Dorado, as well as the bubbling springs, flowing fountains, and sparkling lakes that continue to inspire artists and storytellers from all around the world today.

The many ways that Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort celebrates water and the natural world bridge a rich and storied history with an exciting new legacy. And there is no better time than now to experience it for yourself.

Hollywood Transformed into the Pride Lands for the Star-Studded World Premiere of The Lion King

July 11, 2019

By Jocelyn Buhlman

On Tuesday, July 9, we were working on our roars over in Hollywood to celebrate a gathering like no other: the world premiere of Disney’s The Lion King! Our favorite Disney stars and talent from the film pounced onto the red carpet to celebrate the live-action reimagining of the 1994 animated classic.

The dress code was “safari chic,” and the stars delivered, arriving in fashion sure to make Simba and Nala proud.

The fans herded onto the carpet, bringing their own wild fashion and flair as they took photos with their favorite stars.

After the regal display on the red carpet, fans and stars alike gathered in the Dolby Theatre, where director (and Disney Legend honoree) Jon Favreau spoke about the film, letting in fans on a secret: Only one shot in the entire movie was not rendered in CGI! Can you spot the real-world moment in the film? Favreau didn’t reveal the location of the shot, but he did call the cast and creative team on stage to a rousing round of applause before the audience settled in to watch the film for the first time ever.

Just can’t wait to see The Lion King? Be sure to check out our D23 exclusive screenings in New Jersey and Illinois to see the film on opening day—and don’t forget to head to theaters starting July 19 to experience the legendary story for yourself.

Find Out When Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Opens at Disneyland and Walt Disney World

July 11, 2019March 31, 2020

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened at Disneyland in May, and has introduced us to the bright and bustling world of Batuu. While we’ve had our chance to pilot the Millennium Falcon, build our own droid, and even grab a drink at Oga’s Cantina, we’ve been on the edge of our seats waiting to discover more about the mysterious Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance attraction that was previously announced to open this winter.

Well, intergalactic travelers, we have exciting news for you! Our friends at Disney Parks Blog just revealed the opening date for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World! If you’re planning on visiting Walt Disney World on Walt Disney’s birthday—December 5—you have the chance for a new way to celebrate! Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will open at Disney Hollywood Studios on December 5, honoring the ultimate storyteller with the introduction of the most immersive and advanced attraction ever imagined at a Disney Park!

If you call Disneyland your home and can’t wait to check out this attraction for yourself, don’t worry. Mark your calendar for January 17, when Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance opens at Disneyland park to blur the lines between fantasy and reality.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance puts guests in the middle of a climactic battle between the dreaded First Order and our heroes in the Resistance. After being recruited to join Rey and General Organa at a secret base, you face unique challenges like being captured by a First Order Star Destroyer and protecting the secret base, always staying one step ahead of Kylo Ren.

We’re already counting down the days until we can experience this thrilling new addition to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, but in the meantime, stay up-to-date with every piece of intergalactic breaking news right here on D23.com! Check out our full Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge series for every tip and trick you need to know when you’re exploring Batuu.

We’ve Got a Good Feeling About Lucasfilm at D23 Expo 2019

July 11, 2019March 31, 2020

By D23 Team

For the first time ever at D23 Expo, Lucasfilm will host its own pavilion on the show floor featuring an impressive display showcasing the evolution of Star Wars stormtroopers. The exhibit will include several of the actual costumes used on screen throughout the iconic movie series.

From the classic stormtrooper to the new design featured in the upcoming Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, this stunning display is a rare opportunity to examine these production costumes up close instead of in a galaxy far, far away.

There will also be an opportunity for young Padawans to feel the force with Star Wars Galaxy of Adventures video shorts and interactive activities for kids.

As if that wasn’t exciting enough, on Friday, August 23 at 3:30 p.m. in Hall D23, guests will get a sneak peek at Jon Favreau’s action-packed bounty hunter series, The Mandalorian. The Mandalorian (played by Pedro Pascal) is a bounty hunter who travels the outer reaches of the lawless galaxy, surviving as a mercenary-for-hire. Dave Filoni (supervising director on Star Wars: The Clone Wars and writer/director on The Mandalorian), along with special guests, will join Favreau for the on-stage presentation. The highly anticipated program for Disney+ represents the first-ever Star Wars live-action series.

It’s going to be a force-filled weekend, so better pack your lightsabers, and get ready to jump to lightspeed at D23 Expo 2019.

7 Super-Speedy runDisney Facts

July 10, 2019

by Karina Schink

On your mark… get set… GO!

Whether you’re an avid runner or more of a casual jogger, whether you head to the Disney Parks to run your 5Ks or you complete a virtual one at D23 Expo 2019, runDisney always provides the most magical way to get your jog on. On top of their incredible Marvel virtual challenge, runDisney has some exciting events coming up. Right off the high of their 25th anniversary in 2018, we’re sprinting towards January 2020, when the 27th Walt Disney World Marathon will take place.

To help get you ready and stretch those trivia muscles, here’s a look at the track runDisney has been on since 1994.

1994
The Walt Disney World Marathon race makes its debut and includes a 2-mile fun run.

2003
The “Perfect” program debuted with 152 runners who had completed every Walt Disney World Marathon to date.

2004
The race weekend reached 100,000 total runners since it started 10 years before.

2013
runDisney celebrated their 20th annual race and the first major marathon in which women outnumbered the men, accounting for 51 percent of finishers.

2014
The 10K and Dopey Challenge (combining the 5K, 10K, half marathon, and marathon) were introduced to the race weekend.

2015
The Disney Castaway Cay Challenge, a special 5K race on Disney Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private Bahamian island, debuted.

2018
Celebration of the 25th Annual Walt Disney World Marathon and fifth Annual Dopey Challenge.

Celebrate Mickey Mouse Disco with Questlove in San Diego!

July 10, 2019July 15, 2019

This event is SOLD OUT

On Friday, July 19, Mickey Mouse’s Disco Night is coming to San Diego, and D23 Gold and Gold Family Members are being offered some very special perks! It’s the 40th anniversary of the multi-platinum Mickey Mouse Disco album, which means it’s time to turn back the clock and party like it’s 1979! Take a break from San Diego Comic-Con and get ready to boogie at the House of Blues San Diego with an electrifying DJ set by the legendary Questlove. The 4-time Grammy® Award-winning musician, drummer, producer, culinarily entrepreneur, and best-selling author will bring funk, soul, hip hop and disco classics to the dance floor.

This unforgettable evening will include very special guests, delicious appetizers, and plenty of throwback moments to capture. Costumes are encouraged, so bring out that polyester, as no platform shoes are too high and no jumpsuit is too sparkly for this funky night of fun. And that’s not all! At Mickey Mouse’s Disco Night, D23 Gold & Gold Family Members will receive early access to an extra special photo opportunity, one (1) complimentary drink ticket and an exclusive giveaway, so be sure to bring your D23 Gold membership card! Not a member? Visit D23.com/join to join today!

NOTE: This event is 21+. IDs will be checked at the door. Anyone under 21 will not be admitted and will not be issued a refund. The name on your ticket registration must match the name on your ID.

7 Disney Things You Need to Try in July

July 9, 2019July 12, 2019

By Jocelyn Buhlman

As Disney fans, we want to make the most of all the magical experiences out there—from epic movie nights to dream-come-true Disney Parks trips—but with new Disney fun debuting all the time, it can be tough to keep track of what’s happening in our wonderful world. That’s why we’ve rounded up seven Disney things you might have overlooked that are happening in the month of July—and are perfect for fans like you to try. Pull out your pixie-dusted planner and take note, because we’ve rounded up some timely favorites at Disney parks, new merchandise at shopdisney.com, plus things you need to check out on the big (and small) screens.

Disney Parks

1. Lamplight Lounge Brunch
Is there anything dreamier than a pier-side brunch full of cool drinks and tasty treats? If brunch is at the top of your summer to-do list, head over to Disney California Adventure on Saturdays and Sundays for a brand-new brunch at the Lamplight Lounge on Pixar Pier (which recently celebrated its one-year anniversary!). Grab your brunch buddies and settle into the downstairs dining room for a gorgeous view of the pier and a delicious brunch menu, including Indulgent French Toast, the Brunch Burger, Crab and Potato Cake Benedict, and more!

A specialty menu needs specialty drinks, of course! So while you enjoy your New York Avocado Toast or Potato Flautas, take a sip of the Cinnamon Toast Cocktail or the mimosa flight, including the classic orange juice mimosa along with versions featuring mango, watermelon, and other fruity flavors. If this sounds like your summer wish come true, find out more over at Disney Parks Blog.

2. Imagination Pink Food
This month, we challenge you to think pink! That’s right, the latest color craze sweeping Disney parks is Imagination Pink, the bright and bubbly shade perfect for adorning your hats, spirit jerseys, mouse ears, and even food! Added near the end of June to select locations at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World, Imagination Pink treats are the summer must-tries for all the Disney foodies out there.

Overwhelmed by the plethora of pink perfection to try? Here are two of our favorites:

Imagination Pink Cupcake (available at the Jolly Holiday Bakery Café at Disneyland Park)
This cupcake has style, just like you! The cupcake itself is pound cake with raspberry marmalade filling, all topped with raspberry buttercream swirl frosting.

Pretty in Pink Strawberry Tart (available at World Premier Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Resorts)
Strawberry popping pearls and strawberry-raspberry mouse are topped with pink glitter glaçage, chocolate ears, pink crispy pearls, and a pink chocolate bow.

For your complete guide to must-try pink treats, check out this post from our friends at Disney Parks Blog here.

Movies

3. The Lion King
Start working on your roars, Disney film fanatics, because The Lion King is making its regal debut in theaters in just a few weeks! This stunning reimagining of the 1994 animated classic features state-of-the-art special effects and a star-studded voice cast fit for royalty themselves. If you’re a D23 Gold Member in New Jersey or Illinois, check out our special preview screenings near you—otherwise, keep July 19 marked on your calendar, because that’s the day we can start reliving the epic story.

Apps

4. Toy Story Drop!
Looking for a new Disney app addiction? Toy Story Drop! recently (ahem) dropped into the App Store, the Google Play store, and Amazon and features hundreds of exciting puzzles featuring familiar friends from the Toy Story universe, such as Woody, Buzz, Bo Peep, and more! In the game, you can explore classic locations such as Andy’s Room and Pizza Planet, but there’s more to explore this month if you’re headed to Disney Springs, such as a brand-new pop-up experience featuring a claw-some photo location and limited-edition merch. And, of course, you can try the game out for yourself. Learn more (and get to playing!) at toystorydrop.com.

Television

5. Make a Wand ID in the DisneyNOW app
Whether you’re young or young at heart, many of us have grown up watching our favorite Disney Channel stars introduce the next episode of their show by waving a wand and reminding us that, “…you’re watching Disney Channel!” Have you ever longed to imitate your favorite star—or practiced making a Wand ID yourself? Well, this summer your Disney Channel Dreams can come true if you download the DisneyNOW app. Using the #DisneyChannelStar activity, you can film your very own Wand ID to share with your friends (or to watch on repeat while imagining your guest appearance on Andi Mack… We won’t judge).

Shopping

6. Special Edition Simba and Nala Plush
If you just can’t wait to see King, head over to shopDisney.com for the cutest way to bide your time: Special Edition Simba and Nala plush that support the Lion Recovery Fund (LRF). For each plush sold globally, Disney will donate US $5 to the Wildlife Conservation Network in support of the LRF and its local partners. These plushes are part of Disney’s Protect the Pride campaign, which you can learn more about here.

Purchase the plushies now at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, or on shopdisney.com.

D23 Discounts

7. Rock Your Raw Threads Discount
If one of your summer goals is to pick up a new exercise habit (or maybe you just plan on doing a lot of walking on your next Disney Parks trip), Raw Threads has the perfect collection of Disney-inspired athletic clothes to rock while you work out. D23 Gold Members are especially in luck—enjoy a 15-percent-off site-wide discount on Raw Threads through the end of the year! Your fitness goals will never be more magical than when you’re exercising with extra Disney style.

Plus—next month at D23 Expo, our friends at Raw Threads are helping us showcase your Disney style during our Mousequerade costume contest on Friday, August 23. Tickets are still available if you want to see the amazing costumes in person.

The Disney Studio Store Hollywood is Heading to D23 Expo 2019!

July 9, 2019March 31, 2020

By D23 Team

The Disney Studio Store Hollywood is making a grand return to D23 Expo 2019 with exclusive gifts for fans of villains, heroes, pins, spirit jerseys, Disney Broadway, and more! (We were running out of breath!) Here’s a preview of the new collections and limited-edition merchandise launching exclusively at D23 Expo.Limited-Edition Pin Series

Beloved Tales & Dark Tales (Limited Edition of 300): Continuing their iconic Beloved Tales & Dark Tales series, The Disney Studio Store Hollywood will be releasing 8 new Beloved Tales pins and 12 new Dark Tales pins featuring iconic movie moments from your favorite Disney features.
Marquee Series (Limited Edition of 400): The historic El Capitan Theatre marquee is making its way to D23 Expo! Featuring a collection of 10 never-before-created marquees, this series will light up your collection.
Heroines Fight Back Series (Limited Edition of 300): This powerful series features Disney Heroines in action.
Organ Series (Limited Edition of 300): The Mighty Organ from the World Famous El Capitan Theatre featuring various characters is back. This classic series, last released in 2012, is making a comeback.
Mane-N-Friends Series (Limited Edition of 400): This brand-new series will make its debut at Expo, featuring Disney Fan Favorites and their loyal steeds.
Anniversary Celebration Premiere Collection Pin (Limited Edition of 200): The newest piece in the Disney Studio Store Premiere Collection line features a beautiful super jumbo pin, measuring 10 inches long, celebrating the anniversaries of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Disney’s The Lion King, Disney and Pixar’s The Incredibles, Disney and Pixar’s Up, and Disney’s Big Hero 6.

Hollywood & More

The newest collection in the Disney Studio Store Hollywood City Line features apparel for the whole family, including the first ever “Hollywood Edition” of The Original Spirit Jersey® making its debut in Anaheim! The Disney Studio Store Hollywood will also feature various keychains, drinkware, brand-new open-edition pins, and framed pin sets.

Disney Theatrical

Broadway’s cuddliest fan makes its worldwide debut. The Disney on Broadway Bear celebrates the Broadway sensations The Lion King, Aladdin and Frozen and will be available for the first time ever at the D23 Expo. Featuring a commemorative, limited-edition D23 2019 patch, quantities are limited so be sure you collect them all while supplies last!

Remembering Cameron Boyce

July 7, 2019July 7, 2019

By the D23 Team

Disney Channel star Cameron Boyce passed away on Saturday, July 6, at the age of 20.

The young actor was beloved for his role on the Disney Channel series Jessie, where he starred as Luke Ross during the show’s four seasons, before reprising the role on the spin-off series BUNK’D. Boyce was catapulted to greater acclaim with his role as Carlos, son of iconic Disney Villain Cruella De Vil, in the hit Disney Channel films Descendants and Descendants 2. The third film in the Descendants series, Descendants 3, is set to premiere on Disney Channel on August 2 and will feature Boyce’s final performance as Carlos.

“From a young age, Cameron Boyce dreamed of sharing his extraordinary artistic talents with the world. As a young man, he was fueled by a strong desire to make a difference in peoples’ lives through his humanitarian work,” said a Disney Channel spokesperson. “He was an incredibly talented performer, a remarkably caring and thoughtful person and, above all else, he was a loving and dedicated son, brother, grandson, and friend.

“We offer our deepest condolences to his family, cast mates and colleagues and join his many millions of fans in grieving his untimely passing. He will be dearly missed.”

Boyce’s Disney Channel appearances also include Gamer’s Guide to Pretty Much Everything, Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Liv and Maddie, Shake It Up, Austin & Ally, and Good Luck Charlie.

“The Walt Disney Company mourns the loss of Cameron Boyce, who was a friend to so many of us, and filled with so much talent, heart and life, and far too young to die,” said Bob Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “Our prayers go out to his family and his friends.”

Beyond his acting career, Boyce was dedicated to charity work, and he was honored with the Pioneering Spirit Award at last year’s Thirst Gala, sponsored by the Thirst Project, a nonprofit for which Boyce raised $30,000 to build wells for clean drinking water in Swaziland.

In a statement on his Instagram, incoming Disney Legend Kenny Ortega, director of the Descendants films, shared, “My Love, Light and Prayers go out to Cameron and his Family. Cameron brought Love, Laughter and Compassion with him every day I was in his presence. His talent, immeasurable. His kindness and generosity, overflowing. It has been an indescribable honor and pleasure to know and work with him. I will see you again in all things loving and beautiful my friend. I will search the stars for your light. Rest In Peace Cam. You will always be My Forever Boy!”

Our condolences and thoughts go out to Boyce’s friends and family at this time.