Meet Aella—The Giraffe Calf Just Debuted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By Beth Deitchman

Good things often come in tall packages, as guests experiencing Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom saw firsthand recently. A two-month-old Masai giraffe calf has just made her debut on the savanna, and Aella (pronounced “eye-la”) is a sight to behold.

Aella, who was five-feet-tall when she was born on June 29, was named after an Amazon warrior, and is already known to be brave, bold and a little adventurous. Her curious and independent spirit shines through as she begins to explore the savanna and take her first few steps away from her mom, Lily. As the youngest and smallest giraffe in the herd, Aella is easy for guests to spot.

Like all giraffes, Aella is a herbivore. After nursing for approximately the first year of her life, Aella will feast in the bounty of the savanna and, when fully grown, use her 18-inch tongue to strip leaves off thorny branches from the tops and sides of trees to eat up to 75 pounds of food a day.

Lily and George, Aella’s dad, were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and ensures responsible breeding of threatened and endangered species. Breeding this pair is important to the long-term survival of the species because it adds more genetic diversity to the giraffe population, which helps ensure future generations. There are approximately 32,000 Masai giraffes left in the wild—found primarily in Kenya and Tanzania—and the population continues to be at risk to poaching and habitat loss.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Giraffe Calf

The Disney Conservation Fund supports conservation efforts in Africa to protect wildlife habitats, including those of giraffes. Earlier this year, several Disney animal care experts went to Uganda to help relocate a herd of giraffes across the Nile River to establish a newer, safer habitat away from oil-drilling fields. Another team went to Kenya to support a giraffe and zebra population census.

To learn more about giraffes and the threats they face in the wild, visit DisneyAnimals.com.

D23 Expo 2019 Tickets Are Here—Plus More in News Briefs

By Karina Schink

Tickets for the Ultimate Disney Fan Event are on sale now; yummy treats and drinks revealed for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival; and some secrets are revealed about The Tropical Hideaway at Disneyland… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

ICYMI: D23 Expo 2019 Tickets Are On Sale Now

Oh boy! Last week, D23 began selling tickets for the next D23 Expo, which will take place August 23–25, 2019 at the Anaheim Convention Center. It’s the largest Disney fan event in the world, and we’re bursting with excitement over what next year’s Expo has in store!

Not only will we get to see the return of some fan-favorite D23 Expo festivities, such as the Mousequerade costume contest (judged once again by Ashley Eckstein and Yvette Nicole Brown!), but a little something wicked comes to Anaheim, too. The ghoulishly delightful Haunted Mansion-themed D23 Expo 2019 Design Challenge pays tribute to the popular attraction as it celebrates its 50th anniversary next year.

The Disney Legends Awards ceremony will again take place at D23 Expo, where you’ll be able to visit a brand-new exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives. It’s going to be much more than a bundle of fun!

Stay tuned for all the D23 Expo news as it breaks, but in the meantime, check out D23’s first installment of “Know Before You Expo” to discover 23 reasons why you’ll love D23 Expo 2019.

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)

Get a Sneak Peek of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is here, and Inside Disney Parks is giving us a sneak peek at this year’s treats and eats. This latest episode presents a tantalizing behind-the-kitchen look at the event that has our stomachs a-rumbling. At the 23rd annual Food & Wine Festival, you don’t need a passport to try food from all around the world—all you need is an appetite and a curiosity to try something new. Preview the culinary magic and more in the sneak peek above from Disney Parks.

news briefs 8/29

Just Revealed: New Details About The Tropical Hideaway in Disneyland Park

Calling all explorers and adventurers­—wilderness and others alike! We’ve got news for you straight out of a special little retreat. We’re sure you’re all anxiously awaiting to hear absolutely everything and anything you can about The Tropical Hideaway in Adventureland at Disneyland park, and we’ve got a little extra to dish—right here at D23.com.

Labor Day Fan Zone Arrives at Walt Disney World

It’s almost the (unofficial) end of summer, and the Walt Disney World Resort will bring a fan-friendly event to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The Labor Day Fan Zone will take place on September 1–2 from 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. and deliver the ultimate end-of-summer celebration.

This fan festival will feature high-energy music, food, event merchandise, vendor booths, character greetings, and big-screen televisions showing different sporting events. It’s sure to be a fun-filled weekend where everyone can come, enjoy the festivities, and relax.

We Were “Born Ready” for Dove Cameron’s New Single

Dove Cameron (Descendants, Liv and Maddie) has debuted her marvelous single “Born Ready,” the new theme song to Marvel Rising: Secret Warriors. The new animated film brings together a group of powered teens—Ms. Marvel, Squirrel Girl, Quake, Patriot, America Chavez, and Inferno—who join forces to save the world.

The animated film is set to premiere on Sunday, September 30, on Disney Channel and Disney XD. See this next generation of Marvel heroes in action and hear Dove Cameron perform “Born Ready” in the video above, and you can download the new single now!

news briefs 8/29

Get Ready To Dream Big: ABC’s American Idol Kicks Off Nationwide Bus Tour

The journey has begun once again: ABC’s American Idol kicked off nationwide bus tour auditions at Walt Disney World Resort on August 25. This beloved competition series has embarked on a 20-city tour across America, finding all of the hopefuls, and most importantly, the next American Idol.

Maddie Poppe, winner of ABC’s American Idol Season 1, was joined by runner-up Caleb Lee Hutchinson and finalist Catie Turner at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, where they offered encouragement to this year’s Idol hopefuls. It was a big kickoff to what promises to be an incredible season ahead, and we’re excited to see dream in the making!

This Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Playlist Comes Straight from Richard Sherman

Attention, Disney music fans (who are we kidding—that’s all of us!): The Play Disney Parks app (which officially launched in June) has debuted a brand-new playlist, guest curated by Disney Legend Richard Sherman!

From “It’s a Small World” to “A Kiss Goodnight,” Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman—half of the renowned Sherman Brothers songwriting team—has been a part of the magic of Disney parks, and all of the songs he selected for the new playlist reflect those rich experiences he’s had over the years.

The playlist is available now in the app and through Apple Music, and if you’re an Apple Music subscriber, you can add your favorite tracks (or all of them!) directly to your Apple Music library! Visit the Disney Parks Blog to learn more.

Are You a Disney Parks Guru? The Disney Parks Moms Panel is Looking for Disney Experts!

Planning a Disney vacation is fun and exciting. But sometimes you need a little help with the details, and the Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online resource comprised of everyday parents, grandparents, and even some adults without kids who share first-hand experience to help make your own Disney vacation more magical.

And now, they’re calling all of you vacationers who know a thing or two about Disney Parks to apply to join the Disney Parks Moms Panel. The search will be open from September 5–12. Head over to momspanelsearch.com for eligibility requirements and more details.

Every Spooky Snack and Ghoulish Delight at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts

By Jocelyn Buhlman

The spooky season is approaching and Disney fans have begun to plan some bewitching days at their favorite Disney parks. There are so many essential parts of a perfect Halloween haunt at Disney parks—from dressing as your favorite Disney character to riding the special spooktacular rides—and none are more essential than tasting the treats and eats concocted just for the Halloween season. Whether you’re at Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort, there’s a ghoulish delight for everyone to enjoy. Are you ready? We offer you this chilling challenge: figuring out what to try first!

Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World

Wizards, witches, toads in a pond—it’s time for tasty treats from regions beyond! At Magic Kingdom Park, there are so many deliciously spooky treats to enjoy for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Here are some of our faves:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Main Street Bakery

  • Not-So-Poison Apple Cupcake: A spiced “apple” cupcake with pecan crunch and buttercream
  • Halloween Cinnamon Roll: Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll topped with icing and a chocolate spider web
  • Pumpkin Cheesecake (available on party nights only): Gluten-friendly pumpkin cheesecake with gluten-friendly vanilla pecan cake and caramel glaze

Casey’s Corner

  • Minnie Witch Brownie: Decadent brownie topped with a white chocolate piece featuring a wickedly wonderful Minnie Mouse, dressed in her witchy best!

Halloween food round-up 2018

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe

  • Hades Nachos (available on party nights only): Black bean nacho chips topped with fiery buffalo chicken and choice of toppings from the topping bar
  • Worms & Dirt (available on party nights only; available daily starting October 1): Gluten-friendly Worms & Dirt chocolate pudding, gluten-friendly cake crumbs, gummy worms, and a chocolate grave stone

Halloween food round-up 2018

Cider House (Golden Oak Outpost)

  • Apple Cider (available on party nights only)
  • Warm Caramel-Stuffed Pretzel (available on party nights only)
  • Cinnamon Donuts (available on party nights only)

Halloween food round-up 2018

Sleepy Hollow

  • Zero Waffle Sundae (available on party nights only; available daily starting October 1): Special pumpkin waffles topped with vanilla ice cream, sprinkles, and a caramel drizzle
  • Jack Skellington Cake Push Pop (available on party nights only): Layered chocolate cake, vanilla buttercream, white chocolate and dark chocolate crispy pearls, dark chocolate curls, and a white chocolate Jack Skellington piece

Halloween food round-up 2018

Liberty Square Market

  • Madame Leota Dessert (available on party nights only): Vanilla tart shell filled with toasted marshmallow pastry crème and topped with crispy pearls, chocolate, and a hard candy garnish

Halloween food round-up 2018

Aloha Isle

  • Hitchhiking Ghost Dessert (available on party nights only): Doom Buggy-inspired Cream Puff filled with cookies and cream mousse and topped with a chocolate piece featuring the Hitchhiking Ghosts

Halloween food round-up 2018

Gaston’s Tavern

  • Oogie Boogie Meringue (available on party nights only): Gluten-friendly pomegranate-cherry gelée with gummy worms and topped with glow-in-the-dark meringue

Halloween food round-up 2018

Storybook Treats

  • Maleficent Dessert: Lime soft-serve in a black waffle cone, topped with purple sugar and chocolate horns

Halloween food round-up 2018

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

  • Candy Corn Ice Cream: Soft-serve ice cream available in a cone or in a sundae
  • Candy Corn Milkshake: Topped with cotton candy and a Mickey-shaped marshmallow

Halloween food round-up 2018

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe

  • Muenster Smash Burger (available on party nights only): the Muenster Smash Burger is served on a black bun with Muenster cheese, tots, and Sriracha aïoli.

Disneyland Resort

If you haven’t visited Disneyland Resort recently, we have a sweet reason to hurry back… A spellbinding selection of delicious treats which are sure to raise your spirits. If you’re looking for all the treats and no tricks, you’re in luck, because the candy shops across Disneyland resort are bringing out their most bewitching goodies, just for you:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Disneyland Resort Candy Shops

(Pooh Corner and Candy Palace at Disneyland park; Trolley Treats at Disney California Adventure park; and Marceline’s Confectionery at the Downtown Disney District)

  • Minnie Witch Apple
  • Jack Skellington Apple
  • Skull Apple
  • Evil Queen Apple
  • Jack Skellington Cake Pop
  • Bat Cake Pop
  • Mickey Mouse Mummy Crispy Treat
  • Oogie Boogie Crispy Treat
  • Maleficent Crispy Treat
  • Mummy Marshmallow
  • Pumpkin Fudge

Disneyland Park

At Disneyland park, the spirits have cooked up something extra special: flavored churros from the beyond, ready to cast their spell on you! Which one will be your favorite? Make sure to stop by the churro carts to try them all:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Disneyland Park Churros Carts

  • Churros near Big Thunder Mountain: Orange Sugar Churro with Candy Corn Sauce
  • Churros near Haunted Mansion: Pumpkin Spice Churro with Cream Cheese Frosting
  • Hungry Bear Restaurant: Churro Bites Cereal Sundae with fruit cereal-dusted churros, cereal milk anglaise, strawberry ice cream, and raspberry sauce
  • Golden Horseshoe: Churro Sundae with cookie butter gelato garnished with a cinnamon sugar-dusted churro and topped with cajeta and whipped cream
  • Churros near Town Square and Sleeping Beauty Castle: Maleficent Churro covered with chocolate cookie crumbles blended with colored sugar (you can even add Marshmallow Dip!)
  • Churros near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters: Sour Apple Churro (with the option to add Caramel Sauce to this one!)

Once you’ve had a churro or two (or three, or four…), don’t forget to enjoy the rest of Disneyland’s creepy cuisine:

Red Rose Taverne

  • Black Rose Dessert: black truffle mousse with raspberry compote and crunch center with a candy spider

Troubadour Tavern

  • Cookie Decorating Kits

Rancho del Zocalo

  • Orange Sugar Skull Pot de Crème
  • Frozen Abuelita Horchata: frozen Mexican hot chocolate layered with frozen horchata and topped with whipped cream

Halloween food round-up 2018

Café Orleans

  • Crab & Corn Chowder

French Market

  • Halloween-Themed Dessert Trio: with worms & dirt, salted caramel pudding, and pumpkin pie
  • Mansion Spider Bundt Cake: chocolate Bundt cake with green icing and a chocolate spider

Halloween food round-up 2018

Mint Julep Bar

  • Pumpkin Spice Mickey Beignets

Halloween food round-up 2018

Bengal Barbecue

  • Musubi Special: spiced ham musubi with lemongrass jasmine rice and pineapple teriyaki sauce and served with pickled daikon and carrots topped with furikake flakes

Halloween food round-up 2018

Carnation Café

  • Haunted Firehouse Chicken Sandwich: red pepper coulis, white cheese sauce, crispy pancetta, and arugula on yellow sliced bread

Halloween food round-up 2018

Gibson Girl

  • Apple Pie á La Mode: vanilla ice cream with warm spiced apples, crumble topping, and caramel drizzle

Jolly Holiday Bakery Café

  • Sweet Potato Hand Pie: sweet potato pie filling topped with orange white chocolate glaze and toasted mini-marshmallows
  • Cruella de Vil Brownie: brownie in a spotted cup with black dark chocolate mousse, white chocolate mousse, and a Cruella de Vil logo
  • Graveyard Cupcake: chocolate cupcake with cherry filling, dark chocolate mousse, Halloween sprinkles, and a chocolate tombstone
  • Spice Bundt Cake
  • Pumpkin Layered Cheesecake
  • Pumpkin Muffin
  • Mickey Mummy Macaroon

Halloween food round-up 2018

Refreshment Corner

  • Halloween Hot Dog: with spicy meatballs, cheese sauce, and oven-roasted tomatoes

Halloween food round-up 2018

Plaza Inn Restaurant

  • Main Street Mickey’s Pound Cake: pound cake filled with blueberry compote and cookie crumbles surrounded by whipped cream and garnished with black sugar and mint
  • Halloween Minnie Mouse Cake: cinnamon-praline Bundt cake with an apple center and finished with an orange glaze and sprinkles

Galactic Grill

  • Spider Parfait: chocolate cake, vanilla and chocolate pudding, and a thick layer of ganache

Halloween food round-up 2018

Alien Pizza Planet

  • Cosmic Chili Pasta: pinwheel pasta, chili, cheese, and green onion
  • Alien Spider Parfait: chocolate cake, vanilla and chocolate pudding, and a thick layer of ganache

Disney California Adventure Park

Disney California Adventure joins in the churro fun with some of their own flavored churros at carts throughout the park. There’s a full rainbow of churros just waiting to make your day (and Instagram feed) brighter:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Disney California Adventure Park Churros

  • Willie’s Churros: Purple, Green, and Orange Sugar Churro; Pumpkin Spice Churro
  • Churros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail: S’mores Churro with graham cracker, chocolate chips, and a marshmallow drizzle
  • Churros near Goofy’s Sky School: Purple Sugar Churro
  • Cozy Cone Motel: Pumpkin Spice Churro with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce

Don’t go too overboard on those devilish delights—at least, not until you’ve sampled the rest of the spookily scrumptious snacks the park has to offer:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café

  • Sleepy Hollow Cupcake: red velvet cupcake with Headless Horseman chocolate piece

Halloween food round-up 2018

Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream

  • Purple, Orange, Green, and Black Sprinkles to Dip
  • Spider Silk Macaron Sandwich: black macaron with charcoal-tart cherry spun ice cream topped with popping candy and raspberry sauce
  • Bat Wing Raspberry Sundae: white chocolate raspberry swirl ice cream with raspberry splatter, red sprinkles, whipped cream, and bat wing cookie

Halloween food round-up 2018

Mortimer’s Market and Boudin Bread Cart

  • Mickey Bread with Fangs

Halloween food round-up 2018

Smokejumpers Grill

  • Green Apple Spell Lemonade: lemonade with sour green apple syrup, cherry popping pearls, and raspberry sauce

Pacific Wharf Café

  • Pumpkin Bread Pudding
  • Mickey Bread with Fangs
  • Bacon Cheddar Ale Soup

Pacific Wharf Beer Truck

  • Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Beer

Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta

  • Anti Vampire Pizza: roasted garlic sauce, marinated chicken smoked gouda, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and a tomato-harissa sauce drizzle
Bayside Brews
  • ACE Pumpkin Hard Cider
  • Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Beer

Halloween food round-up 2018

Corn Dog Castle

  • Spicy Pepper Jack Dog: dipped in corn batter, drizzled with blackberry sauce, and topped with sweet pineapple salsa, pickled serranos, and crushed cheese puffs

New Details About The Tropical Hideaway in Disneyland Park

By Beth Deitchman

Calling all explorers! A new experience is coming to Disneyland park, and details about the one-of-a-kind outpost are no longer hidden, thanks to our friends at the Disney Parks Blog. Whether you’re seeking culinary adventure or a spot to soak in the sights of the Jungle River waterfront, The Tropical Hideaway is the place you’re going to want to be.

Set to open later this year, the new spot will feature extraordinary eats from all over the world. After a visit to the nearby Jungle Cruise and Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, you’ll want to follow those classic attractions by taking a bao… or two or three, as The Tropical Hideaway will offer three different varieties: Spiced Vegetable Bao, Kaffir Lime Chicken Bao, and Bulgogi Beef Bao. The menu will also include a chilled ramen salad and other tropical-inspired snacks, not to mention Sweet Pineapple Lumpia, a pineapple and sweet cream cheese-filled spring roll.

Tropical Hideaway

Your other senses will delight in the feast, as well, as the musical sounds of the tropics and a waterfront view set the scene for a relaxing and refreshing respite. Evenings see The Tropical Hideaway transform into an enchanting nighttime venue, as the setting sun gives way to flickering torch lights.

We’ll continue seeking updates about The Tropical Hideaway as its opening approaches. Stay tuned to D23 for all of the details.

Oh Boy! Travel the World with Mickey Mouse

By Karina Schink

Aloha! Bonjour! All aboard! It’s time to go on an adventure with the mouse of the year, Mickey Mouse! As Mickey’s 90th quickly approaches, we decided to revisit some of his most adventurous moments from his various treks across the globe. So, pack a bag, get your boarding pass, and get ready to visit some of Mickey’s favorite vacation spots!

Mickey Vacations

Hawaiian Holiday (1937)
As you may already know, Hawai‘i was a favorite vacation spot of Walt Disney’s, so it makes sense that Mickey and his friends also find the islands to be an ideal destination for a holiday getaway. In this 1937 cartoon, Mickey, Goofy, Donald Duck, Pluto, and Minnie’s tropical vacation activities include surfing, strumming a guitar on the beach, and dancing, of course!

Mickey Vacations

Yodelberg (2013)
In a country just a bit colder, Mickey and Minnie must fend off an avalanche when their yodeling starts to cause a little bit more than a small snowfall in this Mickey Mouse cartoon short.

Mickey Vacations

Mickey’s Trailer (1938)
Camping is a classic vacation choice—the perfect way to get away. And in this classic short, Mickey shows us that all you need for an eventful trip is a great group of friends, a fresh pot of coffee, and just a little bit of havoc.

Shipped Out (2017)
Bon Voyage! The gang drops off Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at their much-needed cruise vacation, where they’re looking forward to receiving the VIP treatment. Within minutes, the pair are set up for a relaxing cruise. But, when the VIP experience turns out to be a bit more than they expected, they soon find their trip to be less relaxing—and more adventurous—than they’d hoped.

Mickey Vacations

Mr. Mouse Takes a Trip (1940)
In this classic cartoon, it’s not about the destination but the journey for Mickey and his faithful pal Pluto. For this duo, hilarity ensues from the very beginning as Mickey tries to sneak Pluto on to the train after discovering there are no dogs allowed. While they may not be traveling far, we know this is a trip the two will remember for a lifetime, because all you really need is a great pal by your side.

Mickey Vacations

Croissant de Triomphe (2013)
Bonjour! Bonjour! We’re far away from that poor, provincial town as Mickey Mouse embarks on a flaky mission across Paris when Minnie runs out of croissants. As we trail along on his confectionary crusade, Mickey Mouse’s escapades also provide a beautiful tour of Paris!

Mickey Vacations

Mumbai Madness (2014)
Mickey Mouse is the ultimate travel guide in this short, and who better to travel across India with? This epic odyssey begins with Mickey Mouse, as a taxi driver in Mumbai, must take his passenger to one single stop, but it ends up being just a bit more complicated than that!

Mickey Vacations

Turkish Delights (2016)
Our favorite mouse must fend off other jealous merchants in Turkey when his Turkish Delight is the hit of the Grand Bazaar. But Mickey’s mission isn’t to outsell the competition or to put them out of business, but simply to share the deliciousness of his delicacies with them.

Mickey Vacations

Entombed (2016)
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are on an adventure to find “lost treasure, priceless antiquities, and ancient artifacts” all under the Valley of the Kings in Egypt. With spiders, snakes, tombs, mummies, and booby traps in their way, an overjoyed Mickey and Minnie embark on a thrilling search in the tombs.

Mickey Vacations

Tokyo Go (2013)
It’s rush hour in Tokyo, and Mickey is feeling a bit overwhelmed. When the morning commute gets a bit crowded and Mickey finds himself on the wrong bullet train, he begins racing for the exit at all costs.

Mickey Vacations

¡Feliz Cumpleaños! (2015)
This year, we’re celebrating Mickey’s 90th, and in this cartoon, Mickey also celebrates a birthday, but in Mexico! His friends plan a surprise party for him, but in true Mickey fashion, not everything goes to plan, and Mickey must fight off some rogue piñatas before he can have a truly happy birthday.

Every Back to School Essential to Turn School into a Star Wars Story

By Karina Schink

The summer is almost over and school time is fast approaching. Whether you’re jetting off to a school in a galaxy far, far away or right around the corner, be the young trainee with the best gear in the land with these Star Wars-themed back-to-school essentials. D23 Gold Members, don’t forget your shopDisney discount!

Flyboys | Best in the Galaxy Water Bottle
Whether your piloting the Millennium Falcon, befriending a porg, or taking notes in class, it’s important to stay hydrated. This water bottle featuring the galaxy’s best flyboys (did you hear that they made the Kessel run in under 12 parsecs?) will be at your side to remind you to keep drinking water.

Solo: A Star Wars Story Backpack for Adults
All the best scoundrels in galaxy’s both far, far away and very, very near need a handy place to store their belongings. This themed backpack features artwork of some of your favorite Solo: A Star Wars Story characters (with plenty of pockets to store your lucky dice).

Star Wars Backpack for Kids
Even the smallest Jedi need a place to keep their hoods and lightsabers, especially when training in school! This Star Wars backpack is customizable for the out-of-this world kiddo in your life.

Star Wars Stationery Pouch
After you’ve geared up with your backpack, make sure you’re supplied with all the essentials before you jump to lightspeed.

Star Wars Water Bottle
Is the force strong with you, but you can’t decide which side to turn to? Don’t worry, you don’t have to pick one yet because this Star Wars Water Bottle features both the Rebels and Galactic Empire battling it out, so you can feature both the light and dark side in you.

Star Wars Folio Organizer
Zip! Zip! (…or was it pew pew?) Either way, this Star Wars Folio Organizer, is ready to keep all of your important papers organized, locked, loaded, and ready to go!

Star Wars Adhesive Patches Set
Need to amp up your pilot’s jacket or your outfit for Canto Bight? These Star Wars Adhesive Patches are the perfect way to take any outfit or accessory from ordinary to intergalactically extraordinary.

Star Wars Fleece Hoodie
We know that not all Jedi training centers let you take your cloak with you to school, so just in case, here’s a Star Wars fleece hoodie to keep your head and shoulders warm as you learn about the ways of the force.

Mickey Mouse, DuckTales, and Halloween Fun—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Get ready to celebrate #Mickey90 in a big way; a mysterious DuckTales character returns; and cool new Halloween merchandise has materialized… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

news briefs 8/23

ICYMI: New Exhibit and Experiences Celebrate 90 Years of Mickey Mouse

In just a few months’ time, we’ll be celebrating Mickey Mouse’s 90 incredible years of bringing joy to fans around the globe… and to that end, Disney just announced the opening of an amazing new art exhibit in New York City this November. Plus, if you’re planning to visit any Disney Parks later this year, you’ll get to take part in the “World’s Biggest Mouse Party”—complete with cool merch, dance parties, and so much more. Read up on what’s in store right here at D23.com!

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
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)

news briefs 8/23

DuckTales Dish: Huey, Dewey, and Louie’s Long-Lost Mom Returns

We just about quacked with excitement when we first saw the season finale of DuckTales this past weekend and caught a glimpse Donald Duck’s twin sister, Della, the long-lost mother of Huey, Dewey, and Louie! We wonder how Della—voiced by special guest star Paget Brewster (Criminal Minds)—will impact the new season… Learn a bit about her background via D23.com, and then head over to our Facebook and Twitter to let us know your theories!

news briefs 8/23

All Treats, No Tricks: New Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Merch

For the uninitiated, the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort gets into the spooky spirit each year with its Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a separately ticketed event now through October 31 that features all manner of All Hallows’ Eve fun! And this year, you’ll be able to bring magical memories home with you via a ton of fabulous, specially designed, brand-new merchandise treats.

Fans of Hocus Pocus will revel in new apparel (including a super-nifty “Amuck! Amuck! Amuck!” spirit jersey and Sanderson sisters T-shirts), as well as a Passholder-exclusive tote bag, a cauldron-shaped mug, and even a light-up ornament. Speaking of Annual Passholders, they’ll be able to purchase a new raglan shirt (with glow-in-the-dark printing) and a special Orange Bird collectible pin. And all partygoers will have access to a nifty new themed MagicBand and a mysterious villain-inspired 12-pin set.

Not attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party? (Or not an Annual Passholder?) Never fear! There’s also a ton of new Halloween-themed merchandise available over at shopDisney.com, including a Disney Villain spirit jersey, Haunted Mansion-themed apparel, and costumes galore. Remember—D23 Gold members get a 15% discount off purchases of $75 or more, through September 30.

Star Wars Resistance to Premiere This October

There’s a new Star Wars animated series, which takes place before the events of The Force Awakens, coming to Disney Channel this fall—and we have all the inside scoop, including the “first look” trailer for the series. Find out more about Star Wars Resistance, created by Lucasfilm’s Dave Filoni, right here.

news briefs 8/23

Full Lineup for Epcot’s Eat to the Beat Concert Series Announced

Epcot’s always-amazing International Food & Wine Festival is just about to get underway, kicking off several weeks of “all things delish” this August 30. So it stands to reason that the full lineup for the festival’s Eat to the Beat Concert Series was just released—and boy, does it feature some fantastic acts!

Nine new-to-the-festival artists, including legendary percussionist Sheila E. (The Glamorous Life), actor/singer Jim Belushi & the Sacred Hearts, and contemporary Christian group MercyMe will join 23 returning acts such as ’80s pop chanteuse Tiffany; viral sensation Postmodern Jukebox; rockers Sugar Ray; ’90s boy-band 98 Degrees (featuring Dancing with the Stars alums Nick and Drew Lachey); and smooth jazz superstar Kenny G.

The concerts take place at the America Gardens Theatre stage at 5:30, 6:45, and 8 p.m. daily—and they’re included in your Epcot admission! For more info (on the concert series and schedule, or on the International Food & Wine Festival in general), visit DisneyWorld.com.

news briefs 8/23

Stand Up to Cancer Set for Broadcast on ABC This September

For a decade, Stand Up to Cancer—a division of the Entertainment Industry Foundation—has brought a cavalcade of stars together to help raise awareness and all-important funds for innovative cancer research… research that’s already helping to save lives across the country and the world.

This year’s big Stand Up to Cancer telecast will be broadcast on the evening of Friday, September 7, across a slew of networks—including ABC and Freeform—and will feature appearances from the likes of Keith Urban, Ken Jeong, Matthew McConaughey, Trevor Noah, Jennifer Garner, and Reese Witherspoon. Oscar®-nominated actor Bradley Cooper returns to co-executive produce the live one-hour, commercial-free telecast, alongside live-event producing team Done + Dusted; the trio produced the most recent SU2C broadcast in 2016.

So mark your calendars for September 7 at 8 p.m. EDT/PDT (or 7 p.m. CDT) and get ready to be inspired…

Every Spooktacular Event at Every Disney Park

By Karina Schink

October is encroaching upon us, and that means that something delightfully wicked this way comes. It’s time for Halloween, so we’ve put together your guide to every spook-tacular event happening at Disney Parks all across the globe in celebration of All Hallows’ Eve.

Disneyland Resort

A spell has been cast… a transformation is underway. Using a wickedly wonderful blend of pixie dust, the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, will become the happiest, haunted-est place on Earth, starting September 7.

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Fiendishly Fun Fan Favorites…

There’s no need to wait for October to get your spook on, because Halloween Time is almost here at the Disneyland Resort! From fan favorites like Mickey’s Halloween Party*, to the haunting transformation of attractions, and the park itself, it’s time to see what a little bit of hocus-pocus does to the most magical place on Earth.

*on select nights only; separate purchase required

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Some New Spooks Prowling By….

We know there are 999 happy haunts in the Haunted Mansion, but there’s an adorable addition coming to the Disneyland Resort this year. Disney Junior’s Vampirina is making her first-ever appearance at the Resort! You can stop by to meet Vee over at Disney California Adventure park.

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Faith, Trust, and a Little Bit of Ghoulish Dust…

Eerie encounters lurk in every corner of the park, which dons its bewitching best for the holiday. Not only will the décor be droll, but even the characters around Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park will be clad in their costumes.

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Welcome, Foolish Mortals!

We once again ask you to drag your bodies to the dead center of the room to see what happens when two holidays collide in Haunted Mansion Holiday. But that’s not all: Get ready for the spookiest space trip yet as Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy returns to Disneyland park!

In Disney California Adventure park, a daring Halloween adventure is returning to Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!… Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. Join Rocket in his race to rescue a fellow Guardian this Halloween Time, that is, if you’ve got what it takes.

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Wickedly Wonderful…

 Make sure you’re in drive and buckle up to head over to “Radiator Screams” where you’ll be able to partake in a truckload of spook-tacular fun. Show off your monster mash-worthy moves at Cars Land during Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween. If you forgot your dancing shoes, you can take a spin at Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree, but steer clear of the cobwebs!

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Even More Dreadful Delights…

It wouldn’t be Halloween without some tricks—but mostly treats. Starting on September 7, indulge in special treats and eats. At Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream, tantalize your taste buds with the Bat Wing Raspberry Sundae, or oogie-boogie your way into the Jolly Holiday to grab a Mickey-Shaped Mummy Macaroon (tasty enough to wake you from the dead!).

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Happy Haunts…

On select nights from September 19 through October 31, 2018, you can join Mickey’s Halloween Party* for a fun and friendly celebration of Halloween—and it’s everything you’re hoping for, with character greetings, trick-or-treatings, the Halloween Screams fireworks, and even the Headless Horseman, who rides once again down Main Street, U.S.A. as part of the Frightfully Fun Parade.

*on select nights, separate tickets required

Double, Double, Toil, and Trouble…

Want to have one of your favorite ghouls with you, supplying spectacularly spooky snacks as you traipse around the resort? Oogie Boogie Premium Popcorn Bucket is back to do just that! But, that’s not all! A new version of this bucket will also be available exclusively at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort and later in the spooky season at Disneyland Resort. And a Cauldron Premium Popcorn Bucket must have some magical properties because that popcorn just seems to disappear without a trace!

Walt Disney World Resort

 Are you ready for Halloween—Disney-style? Well, you don’t have to wait all the way until October to start celebrating, because that special holiday is already here, and we’re already having a hauntingly good time!

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

The Witching Hour Is Here…

Halloween fun lurks just beyond the sunset at Walt Disney World Resort. This year, take part in Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party after dark, featuring villainous entertainment, tricks, treats, and more. The best part? It’s already begun!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party* is happening right now and goes all the way until the night itself, October 31. This after-dark special event in Magic Kingdom Park will bring all kinds of tricks and treats!

*Requires separate admission

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Dressed for The Occasion…

Not only will you be able to trick-or-treat around the parks, but you can come dressed up for the event! Wear your best ghoulish get-ups and disguises, because you will not be alone! Your favorite iconic Disney characters will be in their Hallows’ Eve best, as well, and ready to snap a photo (or two) with you and yours!

Snack Like a Fiend….

 These gummy worms have been laid to rest. No mourning, please, at their request. Grab the Worms & Dirt at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café on party nights only, or daily starting October 1. If you’ve got a hankering for buttercream within those bones of yours, Jack Skellington Cake Push Pops will be available (on party nights only) at Sleepy Hollow.

Bite into a Not-So-Poison Apple Cupcake (made with pecan crunch and buttercream), or take delight in the delectable Halloween Cinnamon Roll, which strikes an eerie resemblance to a famous mouse and is topped with a chocolate spider web (there are no tricks here, we promise!).

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

A Spooky Spin…

This year, Walt Disney World is taking the haunted night to another level; not only will the park be transformed, but so will some of the attractions! Discover a fresh new spin on the Mad Tea Party, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain!

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

A Night Filled with Villainy…

The Sanderson sisters, joined by some other iconic Disney villains, will be in attendance at the party at Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular*! The night sky will also light up, and you’ll get a chance to sing along with the best of the bads and their evil ballads during the Happy HalloWishes fireworks extravaganza!

*Only available at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, separate admission required

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Don’t Lose Your Head…

 The grim grandmaster is back to usher in Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade* (give or take a head). Disney characters will masquerade in Magic Kingdom Park joined by none other than the caretakers of the Haunted Mansion themselves! It’ll be a paranormal processional that you don’t want to miss!

*Only available at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, separate admission required

Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disneyland will transform into a “ghost version” where guests can experience an eerie atmosphere of chills and thrills. This transformation will go from corner to corner of the park, all the way from the decorations and the eats to the Spooky “Boo” Parade and the merchandise available in the shops. Disney’s Halloween happily haunts guests at Tokyo Disneyland from September 11 through Halloween.

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Ghosts, Ghouls, and More…

 If you’ve got a keen eye and you believe, you might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a ghost or two along the parade route at Tokyo Disneyland during Spooky “Boo!” Parade. Mickey, Minnie, and the gang will be dressed to profess their love for Halloween as six floats snake down the path twice daily.

However, they won’t be the only ones who have changed for the occasion. The park itself will be covered in a ghostly glow, with hauntings around every corner. This transformation will not be limited to just the buildings—cast members will take part, as well, so from corner to corner, there will be Halloween as far as the eye can see.

Mischievous Merchandise and Eerie Eats…

Beginning September 3, special merchandise will be available featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their wicked and ghostly best. You’ll be able to take home your favorite character dressed in their Spooky ‘Boo!’ Parade ensembles.

Did you think that the park’s supernatural transformation wouldn’t include the food? At Huey, Dewey & Louie’s Good Time Café, you’ll find that the bun atop your sandwich bears an eerie resemblance to a jack-o’-lantern. Additionally, one of your favorite park snacks is undergoing a bit of a makeover, too! Not only will the churros at Parkside Wagon and Pecos Bill Café turn pink on the outside, on the inside they’ll taste like your favorite Halloween flavor. Now, that’s pumpkin to talk about!

Disneyland Paris

For one night only, Disneyland Paris will be bigger, better, and badder than ever! Disney Halloween Party will take place on October 31 from 8:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Guests and ghouls of all kinds can partake in meeting Disney villains, view the Disney Villain’s Halloween Celebration parade, and show their love for the holiday with a Halloween-themed costume.

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

A Whole New Dimension…

Disneyland Paris will be spellbound for one night only, where you can experience all of the Halloween musts. It’s going to be a monster-sized party. As your devilish dreams come to life in the park, you can delight in interactions with Mickey and Disney Villains throughout the night and into the early hours of the a.m.

Halloween at Disney Parks 2018

Chilling, Costumed Celebrations…

At the Disney Halloween Party, you are encouraged to come in costume, especially as Disney Villains lurk around each corner, ready to pose for a snapshot or two—if you dare to meet them! Not only will they be creeping around every corner, determined to make you scream (with joy, that is), they will also take part in the Disney Villain’s Halloween Celebration parade, which promises to be a wickedly good time.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Halloween takes over Hong Kong Disneyland this year from September 13 to October 31, bringing many opportunities to meet your favorite characters, visit Halloween Town, and spend the night on the town during Villains Night Out!

Something Wicked This Way Comes…

 Some of your favorite characters will be in attendance at Halloween Time, too, but it’s up to you to face them! Conjure the courage to face the mayhem with Jack Skellington in Halloween Town, muster up the gall to step foot in Dr. Finkelstein’s Lab and meet with Sally—who desperately needs your help—and no matter what, keep an eye out for Oogie Boogie during the celebration!

Mickey and Minnie will also be fully decked out in all-new, exclusive Halloween costumes, but what else would you expect? They’re always trying to look their best for all of their friends. Speaking of spook-tacular attire, all of Duffy’s friends will be in theirs, including Cookie, who debuts her first-ever Halloween costume!

Moonlit Malevolence

Not even villains can stay in the shadows for too long! When the sun goes down, the fiendish fun begins! Villains Night Out! Chapter 3 is coming to Hong Kong Disneyland, and Maleficent leads a posse of do-no-gooders, including the Evil Queen, Ursula, Captain Hook, Cruella De Vil, and Jack Skellington. Revel in the chance to strut into the night with your favorite baddies!

Trembling Taste Buds…

Now that your eyes have gotten their fill on all of the spectacular sights, it’s time to satisfy your stomach with some devilish bites. Sink your fangs into one (or many!) of the specially themed treats. For that sweet fang, try Jack’s Night, Wizard Pumpkin Cup or a Halloween Mickey Ring (and that’s just a sample of all of the treats out there!).

Stunning New Exhibit Celebrates 90 Years of Mickey—Plus the World’s Biggest Mouse Party Comes to Disney Parks

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Mickey Mouse has been shaping our lives and winning our hearts for 90 years, and we think an icon like him deserves to celebrate his anniversary longer than just one day. And we’re not the only ones who think that—just announced today, Disney is opening an interactive art exhibit in New York in honor of the 90th anniversary of Mickey Mouse. Titled Mickey: The True Original Exhibition, the exhibit is an immersive, pop-up art exhibition inspired by Mickey’s status as a “true original” and his global impact on popular culture and art. But that’s not the only announcement celebrating Mickey: To begin the 90-day countdown, there will be all sorts of exciting, new product collaborations spanning fashion, food, consumer electronics, toys, and accessories so you can celebrate Mickey 24/7. Here’s some of the excitement in store:

Mickey: The True Original Exhibition

Running from November 8, 2018 – February 10, 2019, Mickey: The True Original Exhibition will be open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 60 10th Avenue, New York. Tickets are available for $38 per person at Disney.com/MickeyTrueOriginal.

mickey exhibit

With 16,000 square-foot of interactive experiences, you can experience the magic of Mickey through original work from renowned and emerging contemporary artists. Curated by designer Darren Romanelli, the exhibit will feature exclusive original artwork from contemporary artists including Kenny Scharf, Amanda Ross-Ho and Shinique Smith, with more artists to be announced in the coming weeks. The experience will captivate the senses to surprise and delight guests, evoking the inspiration, creativity, and true original spirit of Mickey Mouse. The exhibit will span from Mickey’s beginning in black and white in Steamboat Willie to the technicolor world of more than 100 cartoon shorts. Get ready to step into an unforgettable journey unlike which you have ever experienced—all to celebrate Mickey!

If you’re looking to check out this stunning exhibit early, keep paying attention for up-and-coming Mickey news! Before the official opening in November, three artists will preview their installations in three pop-up locations across the country. The installations pay tribute to three iconic pieces of Mickey Mouse merchandise that have withstood the test of time—the Mickey Mouse watch, T-shirt, and plush.

  • Kenny Scharf – Scharf rose to prominence in the early 1980s as a New York street artist and muralist. His interdisciplinary practice consisted of design, sculpture, installations, performance and video as well as painting. From now until September 1, Kenny’s installation will be on display at the Minnesota Street Project, located at 1275 Minnesota St in San Francisco. Inspired by one of Disney’s first licensed products, the Mickey Mouse watch, this Cosmic Cavern is an immersive, day-glo, fluorescent black light world. Kenny Scharf’s work is a surreal journey into his personal connection with the character and the timelessness of both Scharf and Mickey’s contributions to visual culture. Fans at home can experience a 360° tour of the installation at Disney.com/MickeyTrueOriginal.
  • Amanda Ross-Ho – Ross-Ho is a Los Angeles-based artist who has exhibited widely, both nationally and internationally including solo exhibitions at Cherry and Martin and The Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles. She has presented large-scale commissioned public work at The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, City Hall Park New York City and the Parcours Sector of Art Basel Switzerland. She will create a large-than-life classic Mickey tee to be on display during Art Expo in Chicago in September. Location is Chicago Athletic Association Hotel Lobby. Her installation will be on display from now through October 25th.
  • Shinique Smith – Known for her monumental sculptural works of bundled fabric and clothing, and her exuberant calligraphic collaged paintings, Smith has been featured in exhibitions and collections of prestigious venues such as Brooklyn Museum, Denver Art Museum, LACMA, MFA Boston, The Frist Center, Kemper Museum and The Whitney Museum among others. Shinique’s installation will honor the impact of the Mickey Mouse plush through decades and will be on display in Los Angeles in October. Location is DTLA Art District on 4th Place. Her installation will be up from October 10-24th.

mickey exhibit

“We hope guests will enjoy the exhibition’s larger-than-life multimedia art installations, photo-worthy experiences, and even a few surprises,” says Ken Potrock, president, Consumer Products Commercialization, Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products. “We’ve partnered with the best muralists, sculptors, artists, and designers to create original works that convey Mickey’s optimism and imagination.”

“As Walt said, ‘I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse,’” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products. “From The True Original Exhibition to a yearlong celebration in our parks around the world, we are honoring the deep connection that families and fans have made with Mickey and Minnie Mouse for nearly a century.”

If you want to keep up with this exhibit, you can find details and behind-the-scenes content at Disney.com/MickeyTrueOriginal—plus, follow @MickeyTrueOriginal on Instagram with #MickeyTrueOriginal.

Mickey Merch Mania!

Get ready to eat, wear, read, play, and more, all with the magic of Mickey! Show off your inner fashionista with new collections launching this week and beyond with fashion and footwear brands like Forever 21 and Vault by Vans. Enjoy candy as sweet as Mickey himself with special new delights from luxury candy company Sugarfina and Brooklyn-based ice cream company Ample Hills Creamery.

Other ways to show your Mickey mania include:

  • Capsule collections available exclusively at Disney stores and shopDisney.com
  • Commemorative titles from Disney Publishing Worldwide
  • A line of adorable plush and toys by Just Play
  • A new Mickey Mouse Brickheadz figure from LEGO®

And don’t forget—earlier this year, Target released a Mickey Mouse collection that spanned apparel for the entire family, treats for pets, toys, summer entertaining pieces, bedding, beach and beauty gear, and more (Did you pick up those Instagram-famous Mickey sunglasses?), and just last month Marc Jacobs released a series of pieces all inspired by the world’s most iconic mouse.

An Animated Tribute

Gather your family around your couch and grab your favorite Mickey sweets, because we’ve got the marathon for you: Walt Disney Animation Studios will celebrate Mickey’s cartoon legacy with the release of Celebrating Mickey, featuring 13 classic short films on Digital and Blu-ray this fall.

The World’s Biggest Mouse Party Comes to Disney Parks and Resorts

If that’s not enough Mickey fun for you, start planning your next trip to your favorite Disney park, because everywhere in the world will be celebrating the World’s Biggest Mouse Party—a limited-time, global celebration of Mickey and Minnie. Here’s every way you can celebrate:

Walt Disney World Resort

  • Celebrate Mickey’s birthday from November 16-18 with special merchandise and food & beverage items
  • Celebrate at Magic Kingdom Park during the Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! Street Party
  • Sing “Happy Birthday” along with the Dapper Dans on Main Street, U.S.A.
  • Join in a special birthday dance party at Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland.
  • Get ready to party in 2019 when Walt Disney World will continue celebrating when World’s Biggest Mouse Party comes to the resort

Disneyland Resort

  • Join in the celebration cavalcade for Mickey Mouse on November 18, featuring some of his special friends and the Disneyland Band, starting at it’s a small world and pausing for a special moment at Sleeping Beauty Castle before continuing down Main Street, U.S.A., to Town Square
  • Get ready to party when the World’s Biggest Mouse Party begins at Disneyland Resort in 2019

Disney Cruise Line

  • Celebrate at the World’s Biggest Mouse Party, which takes to the seas in 2019

Shanghai Disney Resort

  • Kick off World’s Biggest Mouse Party with a brand-new Mickey-themed float at the opening ceremony of the Shanghai Tourism Festival on September 15 to commemorate the Shanghai launch of World’s Biggest Mouse Party
  • See a giant birthday card next to the “Storytellers” statue, featuring birthday wishes from Mickey’s pals
  • Enjoy themed food and merchandise offerings from November 16-18, as well as the opportunity to sing “Happy Birthday” to Mickey just before the nighttime spectacular show each evening, all culminating with a special nighttime birthday spectacular at Enchanted Storybook Castle on November 18

Hong Kong Disneyland

  • Join the World’s Biggest Mouse Party on Mickey’s birthday, November 18, with commemorative park tickets, special food & beverage and merchandise, a hotel room overlay, and “We Love Mickey” projection show through the end of the year
  • Enjoy special birthday stickers, available only on November 18

Tokyo Disney Resort

  • Join the celebration this fall with special decorations and merchandise.

Disneyland Paris

  • Celebrate the World’s Biggest Mouse Party this fall and into winter with new holiday season entertainment and special surprises

Woo-oo! Check Out This News Straight Out Of Duckburg!

By Karina Schink

Life is definitely like a hurricane in Duckburg, because we are reeling from the latest turn of events! On this morning’s one-hour season finale of DuckTales, a rarely seen character made an unexpected appearance!

Paget Brewster (Criminal Minds) has originated the voice of Della Duck, Donald’s twin sister—and long-lost mother of Huey, Dewey, and Louie! But, Della is no stranger to the wonderful world of television. She made her initial appearance earlier in the series, but she was first mentioned in a Donald Duck newspaper comic strip and animated short film in the late 1930s!

Paget Brewster (<em>Criminal Minds</em>) has originated the voice of Della Duck

Just like her children, Della Duck is quite the adventurer. A fearless pilot and explorer, she used to join her brother and their Uncle Scrooge on all of their escapades to chart the unknown.

But, there was still a part of her past that remained unclear. Where has she been all this time? We learned earlier in the season that she became lost in the dark abyss while piloting Scrooge’s secret rocket ship and got caught in a cosmic storm. As we saw in the finale, the explorer has been stranded on the moon, longing to return to her three sons.

Woo-ooo! We can’t wait for season two! Be sure to catch the season finale on DisneyNOW.