Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and The Nutcracker—Plus More in News Briefs

By Karina Schink

So, what’s the news in a galaxy far, far away?… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

news briefs 9/5

We’re On Galaxy’s Edge Over This Star Wars News From Disney Parks

Oga Garra, mysterious alien proprietor, is welcoming all pilots, bounty hunters, smugglers, locals, and galactic travelers to her cantina at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort in 2019.

At Oga’s Cantina at Black Spire Outpost, the spot where all the local rogues will be hiding out, you’ll have to watch your back (unless you’re strong with the force), because you never know who may be lurking around those dark corners.

After you’ve won another round of sabacc, you can also visit RX-24, Star Tours’ most famous first-time pilot who has, perhaps, found a job he’s a bit better suited for. You can catch this droid you’re looking for as he provides musical entertainment that you can only get at the local intergalactic cantina.

We’re definitely over the moon, Tatooine, and Hoth about all things Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and this is just a taste of everything that’s coming to our galaxy much, much closer to home.

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
September 8, 2018
The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour—Presented by D23
September 8, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Mary Poppins at Walt Disney World
September 15, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Mary Poppins on the Lot
October 19, 2018
Lunch with a Disney Legend: Ron Logan
October 22, 2018
D23’s Sip and Stroll at Epcot
November 16-18, 2018
Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse
August 23-25, 2019
D23 Expo 2019
Parks
August 17, 24, 28, 31
September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park
September 19, 21, 24, 26, 28
October 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29, 31

Mickey’s Halloween Party at the Disneyland Resort
August 30-November 12, 2018
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
September 7-October 31, 2018
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort
Summer 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at Disneyland Resort
Fall 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at and Walt Disney World Resort

Studios
November 2, 2018
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms opens in U.S. theaters
November 21, 2018
Ralph Breaks the Internet opens in U.S. theaters
December 19, 2018
Mary Poppins Returns opens in U.S. theaters
March 8, 2019
Marvel Studios’ Captain Marvel opens in U.S. theaters
March 29, 2019
Dumbo opens in U.S. theaters
April 19, 2019
Penguins opens in U.S. theaters
June 21, 2019
Toy Story 4 opens in U.S. theaters
Television
September 7, 2018
Stand Up to Cancer telecast on ABC (8 p.m. EDT/PDT)
September 21, 2018
Elena of Avalor: Song of the Sirenas premieres on Disney Junior (7–8 p.m. EDT/PDT)
November 4, 2018
Mickey’s 90th Spectacular airs on ABC (8–10 p.m. EST)

The Legend You Know Has a Dark Side —The Final Trailer for Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is here.

E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic tale will be told in an entirely new way this holiday season in the form of Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, and the latest (and last) trailer just debuted this week!

We follow Clara (Mackenzie Foy) on her quest for a one-of-a-kind key to unlock a box that holds a priceless gift. Along the way she encounters a soldier named Phillip (Jayden Fowora-Knight), the tyrant Mother Ginger (Helen Mirren), as well as the Sugar Plum Fairy (Keira Knightley). Clara must venture across all four realms to return harmony to the unstable world.

Check out the final trailer for Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms above, and get ready to accompany Clara on her adventure when the film opens in U.S. theaters on November 2, 2018.

Black Panther is Pouncing Back on Screen in Marvel’s Avengers Assemble: Black Panther’s Quest

We’re returning to Wakanda as T’Challa takes center stage in Marvel’s Avengers Assemble: Black Panther’s Quest. T’Challa must defeat new villains and protect his nation once again, but this time he’s getting a little help from some familiar Avengers.

Tune in on Sunday, September 23, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Disney XD, when T’Challa embarks upon brand-new heroic escapades.

news briefs 9/5

Disney Cruise Line Announces the Return of Star Wars & Marvel Day at Sea

Some epic adventures await you as Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea return to Disney Cruise Line. Spanning two Disney cruise ships with sailings across the Caribbean and Bahamas, the special itineraries bring that classic Disney magic to your family vacation.

Star Wars Day at Sea brings that galaxy we know and love to the open sea with an experience that’s truly unlike any other. With you, Jedi, Wookiees, droids, Stormtroopers, and more on board, it’s sure to be a special day-long celebration.

Marvel Day at Sea is jam-packed—from the hull to the stern—with the heroic thrills of the Marvel Universe. You’ll want to summon your inner Super Hero during this all-day event, which includes interactions with some of Marvel’s mightiest.

Get ready to jump to light speed or assemble your team for these very special Days at Sea! Visit Disney Cruise Line to learn more or book your vacation.

There’s a New Member of the Herd at Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Meet Aella, the newest addition to the savanna at Kilimanjaro Safaris in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The two-month-old Masai giraffe calf was born on June 29—at five-feet-tall! She’s named after an Amazon warrior, and she’s already proving the name’s a great fit with her brave, bold, and adventurous spirit.

She’s the youngest and smallest giraffe (making her pretty easy to spot), and she’s beginning to explore more and more, venturing a few steps away from her mother, Lily. We’re so excited to see how far she’ll go!

Learn more about Aella and her family here, and officially meet her in her debut video above!

Samsung and Disney Team Up to Create AR Emoji Magic for the Galaxy S9 and S9+

We know you love Disney (we do too!) and that means that you love Disney characters, whether they’re in the park, on film, or on TV! But, now you can experience them in a whole new way: Through augmented reality (AR), your favorite characters will be brought to life as emojis—and you can share them with friends in brand-new exciting ways!

Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ users will be able to access classic Disney characters (Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, who else?) as well as characters from The Incredibles, Zootopia, and Frozen through the AR Emoji mode on their camera.

These AR Emojis use deep learning and facial recognition technology to map more than 100 facial features, producing a 3-D replica that allows you to create fun, customizable messages for your friends—oh boy!

There’s “A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” on Disney Junior!

Originally penned for the Carousel of Progress, the Sherman brothers’ classic “There’s a Great, Big Beautiful Tomorrow” was featured back in May on a special episode of Mission Force One. And now, a new music video debuted for this classic tune, featuring clips from the series’ “The Space Station Situation” episode.

Reacquaint yourself with this Sherman classic by watching the video above!

Shanghai Disney Resort is Bringing a “Mouse Party” to the Shanghai Tourism Festival

For the fifth year in a row, Shanghai Disney Resort will participate in the Shanghai Tourism Festival, and this year they’re debuting a brand-new float! “Mouse Party” is a newly designed float that’s led by none other than the mouse, the myth, the legend (and the birthday boy!): Mickey Mouse.

The float, adorned with glowing stars, Mickey-shaped balloons, a huge spinning cake, and an illuminated castle made of party hats will make its debut on Saturday, September 15, at the 2018 Shanghai Tourism Festival’s Grand Opening Parade.

After that, the float will spread its magic a bit further as it crosses the city, bringing the celebration to several areas of Shanghai from September 16 through October 6.

The Exclusive Way You Can Get D23 Expo 2019 Merchandise Early

By D23 Team

There are lots of ways to stand out at D23 Expo 2019, from stunning cosplay creations to snazzy Disney T-shirts, collectibles, and more; but now there’s a new way to show off your Disney pride: EXCLUSIVE D23 Expo 2019 merchandise, available when you buy your D23 Expo 2019 tickets. This nifty new collection is available to purchase alongside all ticket purchases. This merchandise is only available for purchase through December 31, 2018.

The Magical Merch

Check out the limited-time merchandise that shows off how you are the ultimate Disney fan:

D23 Expo 2019 merchandise

Exclusive D23 Expo 2019 Lanyard—Price: $12.99

D23 Expo 2019 merchandise

Exclusive D23 Expo 2019 Collector’s Pin—Price: $18.99

D23 Expo 2019 merchandise

Exclusive D23 Expo 2019 Tote Bag—Price: $24.99

D23 Expo 2019 merchandise

Exclusive D23 Expo 2019 T-Shirt (Men’s- & Women’s-cut)—Price: $29.99

Can’t decide what to choose?   The Ultimate Fan Bundle is the best value and comes with one of each item (no substitutions) including choice of men’s OR women’s cut T-Shirt.

D23 Expo 2019 merchandise

Exclusive D23 Expo 2019 Ultimate Fan Bundle—$74.99*

*All prices are inclusive of shipping/handling, and tax.

How Do I Get It?

Now that you’ve ordered your merch, we’re sure you want to start showing it off as soon as you can. When and how you get your merch depends on where you are ordering from:

  • For U.S.-based guests, merchandise will be shipped approximately 6–8 weeks prior to D23 Expo 2019 and will ship separately from their tickets.
  • All orders placed outside of the U.S. will be available at Will Call, during event Will Call hours. Online exclusive merchandise will be forfeited if not picked up.
  • Will Call is not available for U.S. purchasers. Failure to select appropriate shipping/Will Call option may result in order cancellation.

Anything Else I Need To Know?

  • Final products may vary from concept design image shown.
  • No exchanges once you’ve placed your order. No refunds on any merchandise after May 31, 2019.
  • This merchandise will NOT be available for purchase at D23 Expo 2019—you can only secure this exclusive merchandise when you purchase your tickets.

So, what are you waiting for? Check out the merchandise yourself, and start planning—August 2019 will be here before you know it!

Freeform’s 31 Nights of Halloween—The Complete Schedule

By Beth Deitchman

There’s terror-ific news from our friends at Freeform, who decided to make their iconic 13 Nights of Halloween programming event even more spooktacular by bringing us an entire month of our bone-chilling favorite films and specials. Freeform’s 31 Nights of Halloween programming event kicks off on Monday, October 1, and culminates on Halloween night with a frightfully festive marathon of the Disney classic Hocus Pocus. Along the way you’ll want to mark your calendar for a host of Pixar favorites, such as Monsters, Inc. and Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story of TERROR!; and a host of ghosts, with The Haunted Mansion and Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas both included on the spine-tingling schedule that just made its de-boo today.

Monday, October 1
5 p.m. ET/4 p.m. CT—ParaNorman
7:10 p.m. ET/6:10 p.m. CT—Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
8:50 p.m. ET/7:50 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—ParaNorman

Tuesday, October 2
5 p.m. ET/4 p.m. CT—Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
8:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Wednesday, October 3
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m CT—Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—Monster House
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—The Final Girls

Thursday, October 4
5 p.m. ET/4 p.m. CT—ParaNorman
7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT—Monster House
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Teen Spirit

Friday, October 5
12:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. CT—The Parent Trap (1998)
3:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. CT—Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
6:10 p.m. ET/5:10 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
8:20 p.m. ET/7:20 p.m. CT—The Goonies
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—The Breakfast Club

Saturday, October 6
7 a.m. ET/6 a.m. CT—The Parent Trap (1998)
10:10 a.m. ET/9:10 a.m. CT—Monster House
12:20 p.m. ET/11:20 a.m. CT—Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
2:50 p.m. ET/1:50 p.m. CT—The Haunted Mansion (2003)
4:55 p.m. ET/3:55 p.m. CT—The Goonies
7:35 p.m. ET/6:35 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
9:45 p.m. ET/8:45 p.m. CT—Maleficent (Freeform Premiere)
11:50 p.m. ET/10:50 p.m. CT—Warm Bodies (Freeform Premiere)

Sunday, October 7
7 a.m. ET/6 a.m. CT—Monster House
9:10 a.m. ET/8:10 a.m. CT—Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
11:40 a.m. ET/10:40 a.m. CT—The Haunted Mansion (2003)
1:50 p.m. ET/12:50 p.m. CT—Alice in Wonderland (2010)
4:25 p.m. ET/3:25 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
6:35 p.m. ET/5:35 p.m. CT—Maleficent
8:40 p.m. ET/7:40 p.m. CT—Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007) (Freeform Premiere)
11:20 p.m. ET/10:20 p.m. CT—Dark Shadows (2012)

Monday, October 8
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT—Dark Shadows (2012)
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Clue (1985)

Tuesday, October 9
3 p.m. ET/2 p.m. CT— Jurassic Park (1993)
6 p.m. ET/5 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT—Mrs. Doubtfire
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Warm Bodies

Wednesday, October 10
3 p.m. ET/2 p.m. CT—The Lost World: Jurassic Park
6 p.m. ET/5 p.m. CT—Mrs. Doubtfire
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—ParaNorman

Thursday, October 11
4:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. CT—ParaNorman
6:40 p.m. ET/5:40 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
8:50 p.m. ET/7:50 p.m. CT—Despicable Me
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—The Boxtrolls

Friday, October 12
2 p.m. ET/1 p.m. CT            The Boxtrolls
4:10 p.m. ET/3:10 p.m. CT      Disney’s Bolt
6:20 p.m. ET/5:20 p.m. CT      Despicable Me
8:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. CT      Disney’s Frozen
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT          Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Saturday, October 13
7 a.m. ET/6 a.m. CT—ParaNorman
9:05 a.m. ET/8:05 a.m. CT—Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame
11:10 a.m. ET/10:10 a.m. CT—Disney’s Bolt
1:15 p.m. ET/12:15 p.m. CT—Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
2:50 p.m. ET/1:50 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
5 p.m. ET/4 p.m. CT—Disney’s Frozen
7:25 p.m. ET/6:25 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters, Inc.
9:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)

Sunday, October 14
7 a.m. ET/6 a.m. CT—Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
9:30 a.m. ET/8:30 a.m. CT—Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
11:10 a.m. ET/10:10 a.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
1:15 p.m. ET/12:15 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
3:25 p.m. ET/2:25 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters, Inc.
5:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University
8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT—Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic (Freeform Premiere)
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania (Freeform Premiere)
11 p.m. ET/10 p.m. CT—The Parent Trap (1998)

Monday, October 15
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—ParaNorman
6 p.m. ET/5 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania
8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT—The Parent Trap (1998)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Monster House

Tuesday, October 16
3:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. CT—Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic
4:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. CT—Monster House
6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT—Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
8:55 p.m. ET/7:55 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Disney’s Mulan

Wednesday, October 17
2 p.m. ET/1 p.m. CT—Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
4:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. CT—Disney’s Mulan
6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
8:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. CT—Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)

Thursday, October 18
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT—Dark Shadows (2012)
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Maggie (Freeform Premiere)

Friday, October 19
3:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. CT—Dark Shadows (2012)
6:10 p.m. ET/5:10 p.m. CT—The Goonies
8:50 p.m. ET/7:50 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Monster House

Saturday, October 20
7 a.m. ET/6 p.m. CT—Monster House
9:05 a.m. ET/8:05 a.m. CT—ParaNorman
11:10 a.m. ET/10:10 a.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
1:20 p.m. ET/12:20 p.m. CT—The Goonies
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—Tim Burton‘s The Nightmare Before Christmas
5:35 p.m. ET/4:35 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania
7:40 p.m. ET/6:40 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
9:50 p.m. ET/8:50 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
11:55 p.m. ET/10:55 p.m. CT—The Haunted Mansion (2003)

Sunday, October 21
7 a.m. ET/6 a.m. CT—ParaNorman
9 a.m. ET/8 a.m. CT—Spooky Buddies
11:05 a.m. ET/10:05 a.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
1:15 p.m. ET/12:15 p.m. CT—The Haunted Mansion (2003)
3:20 p.m. ET/2:20 p.m. CT—Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
5 p.m. ET/4 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
7:05 p.m. ET/6:05 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
9:15 p.m. ET/8:15 p.m. CT—Maleficent
11:20 p.m. ET/10:20 p.m. CT—Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Monday, October 22
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—Maleficent
6:10 p.m. ET/5:10 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
8:20 p.m. ET/7:20 p.m. CT—The Witches of Eastwick (Freeform Premiere)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Warm Bodies

Tuesday, October 23
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
6:10 p.m. ET/5:10 p.m. CT—The Witches of Eastwick
8:50 p.m. ET/7:50 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Monster House

Wednesday, October 24
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic
5 p.m. ET/4 p.m. CT—Monster House
7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Spooky Buddies

Thursday, October 25
4 p.m. ET/3 p.m. CT—Jurassic Park (1993)
7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania
9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT—The Haunted Mansion (2003)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—The Final Girls

Friday, October 26
12:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. CT—Jurassic Park (1993)
3:35 p.m. ET/2:35 p.m. CT—The Lost World: Jurassic Park
6:40 p.m. ET/5:40 p.m. CT—The Haunted Mansion (2003)
8:50 p.m. ET/7:50 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Teen Spirit

Saturday, October 27
7 a.m. ET/8 a.m. CT—Dark Shadows (2012)
9:40 a.m. ET/8:40 a.m. CT—Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
12:20 p.m. ET/11:20 a.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
2:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
4:40 p.m. ET/3:40 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters, Inc.
6:50 p.m. ET/5:50 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University
9:20 p.m. ET/8:20 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania
11:25 p.m. ET/10:25 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story of TERROR!
11:55 p.m. ET/10:55 p.m. CT—ParaNorman

Sunday, October 28
7 a.m. ET/6 a.m. CT—Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
9:40 a.m. ET/8:40 a.m. CT—The Addams Family
11:50 a.m. ET/10:50 a.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
2 p.m. ET/1 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story of TERROR!
2:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters, Inc.
4:35 p.m. ET/3:35 p.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Monsters University
7:05 p.m. ET/6:05 p.m. CT—Hotel Transylvania
9:10 p.m. ET/8:10 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
11:20 p.m. ET/10:20 p.m. CT—The Goonies

Monday, October 29
4:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. CT—The Goonies
7:10 p.m. ET/6:10 p.m. CT—Disney’s Big Hero 6
9:20 p.m. ET/8:20 p.m. CT—25th Anniversary Release—Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)

Tuesday, October 30
2:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. CT—Disney’s Big Hero 6
4:40 p.m. ET/3:40 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
6:45 p.m. ET/5:45 p.m. CT—Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
8:25 p.m. ET/7:25 p.m. CT — Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story of TERROR!
8:55 p.m. ET/7:55 p.m. CT—The Addams Family (1991)
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Warm Bodies

Wednesday, October 31
7:30 a.m. ET/6:30 a.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
11 a.m. ET/10 a.m. CT—Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story of TERROR!
11:30 a.m. ET/10:30 a.m. CT—Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic

Hocus Pocus Marathon
12:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
2:40 p.m. ET/1:40 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
4:45 p.m. ET/3:45 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
6:50 p.m. ET/5:50 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
8:55 p.m. ET/7:55 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus
12 a.m. ET/11 p.m. CT—Hocus Pocus

ESPN Takes Monday Night Football to an All-New Level

By D23 Team

Ask any National Football League player, and they will tell you: There’s something special about Monday Night Football.

It’s been that way ever since the iconic program debuted on ABC in 1970. Monday night and professional football go together like Packer green and yellow, Cowboy blue and white, or Raider black and silver. Football on Monday night is the perfect play in the playbook.

The 49th season of Monday Night Football will kick off on ESPN with a doubleheader on Monday, September 10, beginning at 7:10 ET showcasing the new-look New York Jets—featuring USC rookie Sam Darnold—versus the Detroit Lions and their virtuoso quarterback, Matthew Stafford. Then it’s off to the Oakland Coliseum—known to Raider Nation as “The Black  Hole”—for the intriguing matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and the Oakland Raiders, the latter now head coached by former ESPN football analyst Jon Gruden, who returns to coaching this year after nine seasons in the broadcasting booth.

Monday Night Football

This year, ESPN unveils a dynamic new NFL commentary team featuring play-by-play voice Joe Tessitore, analysts Jason Witten and Anthony “Booger” McFarland and sideline reporter Lisa Salters. Tessitore and Witten will be in the booth, while McFarland will bring a new perspective to the game each week as the first field-level analyst for professional football’s signature series. He’ll be spirited up and down the sidelines by a motorized cart equipped with a platform where he will be seated 10 feet above the field, providing incredible, over-the-line-of-scrimmage views for each snap—and more.

And to put it mildly, the new team at ESPN is definitely ready for some football.

“Booger and Jason are my dream team,” says Tessitore, who has nearly 20 seasons under his belt as a premier broadcaster of college football on ESPN and ABC. “With Boog and Witt, it was the chemistry and knowing we have only scratched the surface of what it will become. They felt like brothers or best friends in the booth with me. It has been effortless with them. This dynamic of having the field-level hovering analyst and the classic booth analyst is already revealing new dynamics that we’re liking [in pre-season games]. There’s a phrase I’ve been using during our preparations for the regular season: ‘joyful craftsmen.’ We love the craft of broadcasting football and being as knowledgeable as we can be, but we’re also very joyful, we’re very passionate about football and we really appreciate our opportunity to be doing this.”

Monday Night Football

Adds two-time Super Bowl champion McFarland, “If you watched me cover college football, you know there are two things I don’t normally like,” he says, “heights and cold weather! But seriously, it’s an outstanding view from where I sit and you see the game from a different perspective. They didn’t tell me at times I would be 10 feet in the air, so I’m trying my best not to look down, but it’s a distinctly different vantage point to take in a game, and it’s great for seeing the communications between, say, safeties and corners, linebackers and safeties. I think our audience is going to love it.”

For the new kid in town, former 15-year Dallas Cowboy tight-end great Jason Witten, who ranks fourth all-time in NFL history with 1,152 receptions, being selected to join the Monday Night Football team was nothing less than humbling. “Growing up, it was a night I looked forward to every week. I am honored and humbled to join this team. To play for the Cowboys for 15 years and then transition to the best job in American broadcasting, I know how fortunate I am. I know how much work goes into it, and the expectations that ESPN, the National Football League and Monday Night Football are all about.”

Monday Night Football

A versatile and accomplished reporter with more than two decades of experience, Lisa Salters returns for her seventh season of Monday Night Football. “I know it sounds kind of obnoxious, but it’s just so much fun to work with these guys. I remember how I felt my first Monday Night game… I was nervous, I was scared, and I had been doing television for 25 years, but still, I knew that this is Monday Night Football; it’s iconic and the biggest stage you can be on in sports. So I sent the guys a text [before the first pre-season game] just to say, ‘If you’re anything like me, I know you’re probably a little amped up now, but you’ve earned the right to start the next chapter of Monday Night Football history. My advice for them is to go out and be great, not just good.”

And talk about a lineup of classic Monday night matchups! How’s this? Schedule highlights include the aforementioned Rams tangling with the Kansas City Chiefs in Mexico City on November 19. Throw in appearances by both 2018 Super Bowl teams—New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles—and 11 of 12 playoff teams from 2017. All MNF games will be streamed live on all devices, including mobile phones, via the ESPN App.

“I think the schedule sets up wonderfully,” Tessitore adds. “Obviously, our first game is probably the best of opening weekend, with the return of Jon Gruden and the Raiders going against one of the most loaded rosters in the NFL with the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams could be the team in the NFC, Gruden’s return to “The Black Hole,” unbelievable stories, unbelievable game. We have great quarterback matchups, including Jimmy Garoppolo at Aaron Rodgers (San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay Packers) in the middle of the schedule. As we get deeper in the season, our games will have big playoff implications.”

In the end, Tessitore says that “constant communication” between broadcasters is what will seal the deal for MNF in 2018. “Is there anything I can do better for you? How did this feel, how did that feel? That’s basically what I’ve done for 20-plus years with every crew I’ve been on.”

Adds McFarland, “Witt and I both played a team sport, we both played football, but we had different roles. I was a defensive player, a great athlete, and Witt was a slow tight end! We both had different roles we had to fill. That helps us now. We’re still on the same team, but we have different roles, different vantage points, different viewpoints. We work individually to help our team, collectively, to put the best product on the air.”

ESPN’s 2018 Monday Night Football Schedule*

Sept. 10 7:10 p.m. New York Jets at Detroit Lions
  10:15 p.m. Los Angeles Rams at Oakland Raiders
Sept. 17 8:15 p.m. Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears
Sept. 24 8:15 p.m. Pittsburgh Steelers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Oct. 1 8:15 p.m. Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos
Oct. 8 8:15 p.m. Washington Redskins at New Orleans Saints
Oct. 15 8:15 p.m. San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay Packers
Oct. 22 8:15 p.m. New York Giants at Atlanta Falcons
Oct. 29 8:15 p.m. New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills
Nov. 5 8:15 p.m. Tennessee Titans at Dallas Cowboys
Nov. 12 8:15 p.m. New York Giants at San Francisco 49ers
Nov. 19 8:15 p.m. Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Rams (Mexico City)
Nov. 26 8:15 p.m. Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans
Dec. 3 8:15 p.m. Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Dec. 10 8:15 p.m. Minnesota Vikings at Seattle Seahawks
Dec. 17 8:15 p.m. New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers
Dec. 24 8:15 p.m. Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders
Jan. 5–6 TBD NFL Wild Card Playoff Game

*All times ET

D23 Members Get Early Bird Tickets for the Hollywood Bowl’s Live-to-Screen Performance of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

What’s this? The Pumpkin King himself, Danny Elfman, just announced that he will return to the Hollywood Bowl on October 26 and 27 at 8 p.m. to perform his bone-chilling role of Jack Skellington for an amazing live-to-film performance of the holiday-colliding classic, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, in honor of the film’s 25th anniversary. Travel to Halloweentown with an immersive experience that includes live scenery projections, live orchestra, spectacular guest artists, and an all-star cast.

You’re in for a real trick-or-treat: Joining Elfman will be other original cast members including Catherine O’Hara (Sally) and Ken Page (Oogie Boogie) to give you a ghoulishly good reason to celebrate Halloween! Joining the classically creepy cast is conductor John Mauceri, founding director of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, who will once again lead the full orchestra and choir as they perform the film’s classic score and cherished songs live-to-picture.

nightmare hollywood bowl

Through the magic of projection mapping, the award-winning creative studio Mousetrappe will return to create breathtaking living scenery projected onto the façade of the iconic Hollywood Bowl, making the event a constantly evolving extension of the film and music. This will be Mousetrappe’s second live-to-picture event at the Hollywood Bowl, following Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in Concert earlier this year, which marked the first time that 90 minutes of original content had been created for video projection mapping on the surface of the iconic Los Angeles amphitheater.

D23 Members have another reason to spell-o-brate: You can purchase early bird tickets on Friday, September 7 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. General admission tickets go on sale Saturday, September 8, at 10 a.m. via all Ticketmaster outlets. To purchase by phone, call (800) 745-3000 or online at Ticketmaster.com  and use the presale code DISNEYJACK.

Mission Force One Celebrates A Great, Big Beautiful Tomorrow

By Beth Deitchman

“There’s a great, big beautiful tomorrow, shining at the end of every day…”

The Sherman brothers’ penned their classic song for the Carousel of Progress at the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair, a musical representation of Walt Disney’s vision of an optimistic future—a vision that is also very much at the heart of Disney Junior’s Mission Force One and its predecessor, Miles from Tomorrowland. “There’s a Great, Big Beautiful Tomorrow” was featured in a special episode of the animated series back in May, and now a music video of the song makes its debut today. Featuring clips from “The Space Station Situation” episode, the video is now airing on Disney Junior, as well as the DisneyNOW app.

“We always tried to portray the idea that the future is a hopeful, positive place, and to inspire our viewers to see themselves as the makers of that positive future,” says Sascha Paladino, creator and executive producer of both Mission Force One and Miles from Tomorrowland. The “Miles-ified” version of the Sherman brothers’ song is performed by musician Matt Mahaffey and Grammy®-winning banjoist Béla Fleck (Paladino’s brother) and has been given a modern, rock-inspired makeover. “I was trying to combine the youthfulness of Miles and excitement about the future into our version of the song,” Paladino shares.

The episode in which “There’s a Great, Big Beautiful Tomorrow” appeared was an important one for the series and for its creative team. “A lot of us here feel like that episode is kind of the culmination of everything we’ve done on Miles from Tomorrowland to this point, because it sort of brings Miles and his friends into the real world of space as we know it,” Paladino explains. The episode allowed Miles to travel back in time and meet real-life astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS); by introducing young viewers—and Miles—to our space program, Paladino hopes the episode planted the seed of an idea that the series’ Tomorrowland Transit Authority is a natural evolution from NASA.

miles from tomorrowland

The ISS episode featured an out-of-this-galaxy cast of space and science luminaries and a dream-come-true collaboration with NASA. “How do you top that?” Paladino asks. And while Miles Callisto is just beginning a lifetime of space adventures with family and friends, the September 10 episode of Mission Force One will be the series finale. But, Paladino, emphasizes, viewers should not see this as an ending. “Miles and his family are off onto new adventures, and whether or not you see them on TV, those adventures are going to continue,” he says. “My ideal scenario is that a kid watches the finale episode, then goes off and decides in his or her own head what Miles does next.”

In the series finale, airing on Monday, September 10, at 5:00 P.M. EDT/PDT, viewers can look forward to the return of Miles’ parents, Phoebe and Leo, along with an encore appearance by a very special guest voice actor: legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who reprises his role as the head of the Tomorrowland Transit Authority.

miles from tomorrowland

Working with the likes of Aldrin is just one of the many amazing experiences Paladino has had during his time with Miles. “It was in so many ways a dream come true,” he shares. “I got to explore outer space. I got to explore ideas about the future. I got to, in a way, live vicariously through Miles my dreams of going to outer space. And I got to tell stories that were important to me and explore this idea of a future that we want to live in and what that might look like; and also explore stories about what it means to connect with different cultures.”

The theme of connection is very much a part of Miles Callisto’s adventures, whether he was connecting the universe for the Tomorrowland Transit Authority with his family, or connecting and protecting that universe with his friends on Mission Force One. And the series itself is very much connected to a legacy that began for Disney in 1955 with the inaugural airing of Man in Space on Walt Disney’s Disneyland series, and continues in a galaxy far, far away. “I love Walt Disney’s ethos of the future as a place of innovation where great things will happen. That really summed up what the show is about,” says Paladino.

Or as the Sherman brothers wrote, “Tomorrow’s just a dream away.”

Absolutely Everything You Need for a Summertime Disney Picnic

By Karina Schink

Even as summer draws to a close, there’s still time to host at least one last get-together before the season’s official end. With your friends and family in tow, make sure you pick up some Disney swag to add a dose of magic to your day.

Don’t forget that D23 Members get a discount at shopDisney.com.

 

picnic merch

Disney Parks “Here For The Snacks” T-Shirt for Kids

picnic merch

Adventureland Pineapple Treat Baseball Cap for Adults
We know one of the best parts of a really good picnic is really good food. While you may not be able to bring all of the treats from the Disney Parks with you, you can certainly still show your love for your favorite foods!

picnic merch

Mickey Mouse Plaid Throw
Is any picnic truly complete without a plaid picnic blanket? Mickey definitely doesn’t think so, and there’s no better way to fulfill that quintessential picnic piece than with one featuring the mouse himself?

picnic merch

Mickey and Minnie Picnic Basket
If your picnic is a romantic getaway for two, this picnic basket (featuring two of our favorite lovebirds) does all of the packing for you, so you can just focus on your favorite thing: each other—and, of course, the food!

picnic merch

R2-D2 Cooler Tote
Beep-beep, this is definitely the droid you’re looking for. It’s no surprise that this resourceful astromech droid is here to keep all of your picnic goodies nice and cool, all the way from being packed to your final destination (so you don’t have to try to get there in under 12 parsecs!).

picnic merch

Star Wars: The Last Jedi Party Table Cover
Jedi or Sith, Resistance or Empire, we all need an out-of-this-galaxy table cover for a fun, force-filled picnic.

picnic merch

Mickey Mouse On the Go Disney Party Collection
Mickey is all packed up and ready to go with everything you need for your summertime picnic, from napkins and plates to fun party favors, to make sure your day is as magical as possible.

picnic merch

Sebastian Bubbles and Splash Sprinkler Play Set—The Little Mermaid
While your picnic may not take you under the sea, it wouldn’t be a picnic without some fun in the sun. If the day is a bit too hot (or you just need a little refreshing), this charming gizmo is straight from Ariel’s cavern and will help you soak up all of the fun the summer has left to offer.

Oga’s Cantina at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

By Jocelyn Buhlman

What would be your first adventure if you lived in the Star Wars galaxy? Some would begin their training as a Jedi Knight, others might sign up to join a ragtag group of rebels in saving the universe, but the rest of us… well, sometimes we just want to grab our favorite Wookiee and get up to no good at the local cantina.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge promises to make that dream a reality with Oga’s Cantina at Black Spire Outpost. Disney Parks Blog just announced this local hive of scum and villainy, which will begin serving galactic guests in 2019.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge cantina

Meet Oga Garra
Oga Garra is a mysterious alien proprietor with a strict code of conduct. Can she keep the most wild of her patrons under control? On this smuggler’s outpost, we can’t be too sure. One thing’s for sure: If you’re up to no good and on the run, this cantina is the exact place you need to be to avoid the authorities—and maybe overhear a thrilling story or two!

Planetary Potions
While you’re dodging stormtroopers (or that Aqualish who beat you at sabacc), why not stop and quench your thirst? Sample famous concoctions full of out-of-this-world ingredients, served up in unique vessels. Whether you’re seeking a celestial spirit, or something more kid-friendly, Oga has something for everyone!

RX-24

Still Getting Used to His Programming
As first revealed at D23 Expo 2017, Star Tours’ most famous first-time pilot found himself a new job he (might) be better at: RX-24 provides the musical entertainment we’ve all come to expect from the local intergalactic cantina. He still has his quirky and talkative personality, of course—and he’s still trying his best.

We’re at the edge of our seats waiting for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to open at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort in 2019. Stay tuned right here on D23.com for more out-of-this-world updates on and this new Disney Parks adventure.

Every Thing To Do While You Chew at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

By Karina Schink

The eats at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival are known to tantalize taste buds all around but throughout the celebration there are also so many different activities to take part in that go beyond dining and wining! Here are all of the things to do while you chew at the 2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Eat to the Beat Concert Series
From pop to country to rhythm and blues, there’s a sampling of music to suit everyone’s taste. With your favorite festival food in hand, head over to the America Gardens Theatre where you can treat your ears with a sound-sational lineup of 32 acts, including nine newcomers for 2018: Tauren Wells, 98 Degrees, MercyMe, Vertical Horizon, Glass Tiger, Sheila E, and Jim Belushi & The Sacred Hearts, Anderson East, and High Valley. Click here to view the complete 2018 schedule.

Disney Du Jour Dance Party
For some family-friendly fun, head over to the Fountain Stage on Friday and Saturday evenings for the Disney Du Jour Dance Party. No one wants to dance alone, and every party will feature a special guest visit from a different duo of Disney characters! And the music? Every single dance party will be made extra magical with a special appearance by an up-and-coming Radio Disney artist. Be there for opening weekend to dance to music from Hollywood Records’ recording artist IRL as they kick off the festivities.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Family-Friendly Foodie Fun
Not only will you and your kids be trying tons of new foods, but they can also learn how to make some new culinary creations! On Sundays in the Festival Center, kids ages 4–10 can participate in Junior Chef Kitchen presented by Krusteaz and make, decorate, and sample their own pancake creations. (Young chefs must register for the Junior Chef Kitchen session the day before or morning of the experience, at the Festival Center.) Foodies-in-training can also work up an appetite as they explore a new playground in Future World.

Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt
What better way to celebrate all things food than to play a game that stars the food maestro himself: Remy! Embark on a scavenger hunt adventure, searching all around World Showcase and the global marketplaces to find the ingredients Remy needs to make his signature dish, ratatouille. Want a tip? Just remember what Remy’s hero Chef Gusteau said, “If you focus on what you left behind, you will never be able to see what lies ahead.” We think that’s pretty good advice for a scavenger hunt! Find all 15 Remy statuettes and you can bring your completed scavenger hunt map to Disney Traders at the entrance to World Showcase and trade it for a new surprise, compliments of the little chef himself.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Party for the Senses*
Pay tribute to the sensory arts with a night filled with incredible food and entertainment at the separately ticketed event Party for the Senses. The parties feature an array of epicurean delights with a masterful medley of tasty eats and memorable music from Femmes of Rock, who bring their own special blend of entertainment to the high-energy shows that feature classic rock hits played on electric violins.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Festival Center Stage Presented by Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company®
It fuels you, delights you, and now, takes you on a voyage! At the Festival Center Stage, let Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company take you on an incredible journey from bean to mug to learn just how you get that cup o’ joe in the morning.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

The Chocolate Experience: From Bean to the Bar—Hosted by Ghirardelli® Chocolate Company
Do you smell that? Chocolate! Just like Anna and Elsa, we’re obsessed with all things chocolate, and at this year’s festival, you can completely immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and flavors of that delicious cocoa candy. Not only will you be able to sample some, but you’ll also have the opportunity to view fantastical chocolate sculptures created by Walt Disney World pastry chefs, and discover the process that turns a simple bean into the world’s most famous—and one of its most delicious—flavors.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Culinary Demonstrations*
While eating may be our favorite part of any epicurean event, we also love to learn all about food! Mondays through Saturdays throughout the festival, you can take a couple notes from the pros during the Culinary Demonstrations—and each demonstration comes to a delicious culinary conclusion. Bon Appétit! Click here for the most up-to-date schedule and to make a reservation.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It!*
Want to get more involved with the cooking? At Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It, you’ll work side-by-side with the chefs, beverage experts, and other kitchen wizards to learn all of their tips and tricks in the culinary world. Click here to check availability and make a reservation.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Cheese Seminars*
These seminars will make you melt with cheesy delight. Guest cheesemakers and fromage experts will teach all about aromas, textures, and flavor levels of popular cheeses while you sample different wines, beers, and other beverages from featured regions. We can’t disa-brie that it will be an amazing event! There is still limited availability for these eagerly anticipated events. Click 

*This is a separately ticketed event