Disney Undiscovered: Mickey Columbus

From a riverboat deckhand to a brave little tailor and a sorcerer’s apprentice, Mickey Mouse has taken on many roles since his first appearance in 1928. “Mickey Columbus,” a proposed but never-realized concept, would have seen our favorite animated star sailing the seas in an effort to prove that the world was round—and win the heart of Lady Minnie, of course.

“Mickey Columbus” (originally “Christopher Mickey”) came about as a follow-up to Mickey’s Christmas Carol, the 1983 featurette that marked the Disney icon’s first theatrical appearance in 30 years. The holiday film’s instant success (and Mickey’s immense popularity) was reflected in an Oscar^® nomination, annual TV airings, and additional ideas for Mickey projects in the animation pipeline.

Disney Animation directors and artists went to work developing treatments and full storyboards for the featurette. Initially, three songs were proposed for the adventure, which followed Mickey, Donald, and Goofy on a quest to plead their cause to the King and Queen of Spain (portrayed by Pete and Clarabelle), escape from Pete’s dungeon, and travel to the new world. The story was even considered for expansion into a feature-length film, but was ultimately shelved until 1986, when Mickey’s Christmas Carol director Burny Mattinson suggested ideas for featurettes approaching the time of Mickey’s 60th birthday celebration.

Ultimately, Mickey returned to theaters in the 1990 featurette The Prince and the Pauper. Another Mickey project proposed at the time—The Three Musketeers—was put on hold, ultimately materializing as a 2004 musical movie.

“E” Ticket Memories: Five Favorite Facts About Ticket Books

By Steven Vagnini

In honor of the 60th anniversary of the “E” Ticket, we thought we’d share five of our favorite facts about the ticket books that once admitted us into attractions at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and Tokyo Disneyland.

1. Although Disneyland opened to the general public on July 18, 1955, ticket books weren’t introduced until October.
Originally, a single admission ticket was sold at the park’s main entry gate—for a price of $1.00, including tax!—while tickets for each individual attraction could be purchased at nearby ticket booths. This constant exchange paved the way for a Disney park innovation, and on October 11, the first coupon books were introduced. Conceived by Disneyland Public Relations director Ed Ettinger, the books offered admission to the park and coupons to experience eight attractions—for a total price of $2.50 for adults, $2.00 for juniors, and $1.50 for children!

2. At first, only “A,” “B,” and “C” coupons were included.
The first ticket books offered three “A,” two “B,” and three “C” coupons, which categorized experiences by their level of thrill and excitement. The earliest “A” tickets offered rides on attractions like King Arthur Carrousel and the Fire Wagon; “B” coupons could be used for adventures like the Conestoga Wagon and Dumbo, the Flying Elephant; while “C” coupons provided admission to popular attractions like the Jungle Cruise, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, and Autopia.

3. A series of new attractions called for the “D” ticket in 1956.
Walt Disney and his staff realized that in order to keep the park turnstiles turning, new experiences would need to be continually added and improved. By June 1956, with limited funds to invest in major attractions, the park introduced an array of smaller adventures that called for the introduction of the “D” ticket. These included Storybook Land Canal Boats (which offered a significant enhancement to the former Canal Boats of the World), Tom Sawyer Island Rafts, Indian War Canoes, and the Rainbow Caverns Mine Train. Meanwhile, the new Skyway and Astro-Jets attractions were added to the roster of “B” and “C” coupon attractions, respectively.

4. The most famous Disneyland coupon entered the American lexicon in 1959.
With the introduction of the impressive Matterhorn Bobsleds, Disneyland-Alweg Monorail System, and Submarine Voyage, Disneyland truly had a “Gala Day” in June 1959. Sometimes informally referred to as the “second opening of Disneyland,” the dedication of these complex and thrilling attractions affirmed Walt Disney’s promise that Disneyland would “never be completed.” The first “E” ticket coupons were made available June 12, providing admission to these all-new attractions, along with other Disneyland favorites that were upgraded to the prestigious level. “E” tickets soon entered the American lexicon as a term signifying the ultimate in thrills. Astronaut Sally Ride even described her first trip to space as “a real ‘E’ ticket ride!”

5. Ticket books were phased out in favor of the Passport in 1982.
On June 20, 1981, Disneyland began offering the choice of a ticket book or an all-inclusive Passport, which offered unlimited use of the park attractions. By June 1982, the ticket books were phased out in favor of the Passport at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World. However, Tokyo Disneyland offered the books until March 31, 2001.

While no longer in use, ticket books will always be remembered for the memories they provided to guests of all ages. Now collectible items among Disney fans, they continue to be celebrated on nostalgic merchandise items and apparel—a symbol of the way things were.

Dressed for Trick-or-Treating Success!

Like they say on the red carpet, “Who are you wearing?”

But we’re, of course, not talking about an award show—we’re talking about an even bigger night of the year, Halloween! Our friends at Disney Consumer Products have introduced a (ghost) host of fabulous new costumes for 2015—for adults, kids, and even dogs! So if you’re still trying to figure out whether to literally wear your emotions on your sleeves by dressing as Joy from Inside Out or dress the part of “big hero” as Baymax from the film Big Hero 6, there’s a costume for every kind of Disney fan this year.

Many of these costumes are available at DisneyStore.com, and D23 Gold Members can save 15% on purchases now—get the details!

Disney Descendants Mal Deluxe Costume & Wig

Cinderella Fairy Godmother Prestige Adult Costume

Cinderella Prince Movie Deluxe Adult Costume

Disney The Little Mermaid Ariel Child Costume

Disney Pixar Inside Out Joy Deluxe Child Costume

Disney Pixar The Incredibles Violet Tween Costume

Disney Pixar The Incredibles Baby Jack Deluxe Infant Costume

Big Hero 6 White Inflatable Baymax Adult Costume

Rey Costume for Kids - Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Captain Phasma Costume for Kids - Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Kylo Ren Costume for Kids - Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Disney Details: Animal Kingdom Lodge Lights the Way

Picture a moody scene of an adobe wall dotted with a mosaic of lanterns—beautiful beacons to weary vacationers trying to get to their rooms before darkness falls. You’ll discover this scene the next time you travel to Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. And if you’re fortunate enough to arrive here just as a warm Florida rain welcomes the evening with a syncopated patter on the surrounding shrubs and grasses—bending in a gentle, fragrant breeze—pause to listen to nature’s music. It sounds exactly the same on the Serengeti.

It’s all in the Disney Details.

Celebrating Disney Characters Who Are Mad as Hatters

Today is a very, very special day. Why, you ask? Well, odds are, it’s your un-birthday—it’s most-assuredly ours! But October 6 is also Mad Hatter Day, the day we celebrate Alice In Wonderland’s eccentric, chapeau-wearing tea party host. We’re definitely raising a cup of tea to the Mad Hatter himself today, but we thought this spectacular holiday marked the perfect occasion to sing the praises of some of his similarly silly compatriots.

The Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland

Of course, the Mad Hatter Day party can’t get started until the guest of honor himself is celebrated. And the Mad Hatter—along with his equally silly BFF, the March Hare—has brilliantly determined that there are 364 additional days for festive fun and merriment each year (other than one’s birthday), thanks to his introduction of the concept of “unbirthdays.” We’d let him pour us a cup of tea any day.

Genie from Aladdin

When you let the hilarious mind of Robin Williams run rampant inside a recording studio, you can’t help but end up with a wacky and whimsical animated character like Aladdin’s Genie—who’s about as silly as they come! “PHENOMENAL COSMIC POWERS! Itty-bitty living space.”

Bing Bong from Inside Out

He’s got a theme song: “Who’s your friend who likes to play? Bing Bong! Bing Bong!…” He’s headed to the moon in a rocketship made out of a Radio Flyer wagon and a few brooms. He cries candy! We only just met Bing Bong this summer, with the release of Inside Out, but it feels like we’ve known him our entire lives. His lovable lunacy will live on in our core memories from here on out.

Mr. Toad from The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad / Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride

Mr. Toad is a bit self-centered, a bit impulsive, and definitely too smart for his own good—but underneath the crazy, there’s a heart of gold. His friends Angus, Ratty, and Mole wouldn’t have gone to so much trouble to save him from imprisonment if he was truly unreasonable, right?

Tigger, Winnie the Pooh

He’s bouncy… trouncy… flouncy… pouncy… fun, fun, fun, fun, FUN! Tigger has a special place in the pantheon of silly sidekicks and classic kooks. Not even cranky Rabbit is immune to Tigger’s special blend of craziness. Tigger would be the first to tell you that he’s truly one of a kind.

Roger Rabbit from Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

“Shave and a haircut, two bits!” Roger Rabbit first made a name for himself as the wacky and wild star of Maroon Cartoons—but his crazy antics got him in some very hot, possibly murderous water! Thankfully, Detective Eddie Valiant kept innocent Roger out of “the dip” and on the big screen where he belongs.

Goofy

Gawrsh. Doesn’t the name say it all? There is no one goofier than Mickey’s pal. He’s tried many times to seriously pursue (and teach us) a new activity—see How to Play Baseball… How to Fish…and so on—but things never quite go the way he intends. We’re eternally grateful for his eternal optimism…and his eternal Goofy-ness!

The Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus

They’re a cauldron full of crazy. The silly Sanderson siblings in 1993’s Hocus Pocus manage to fit in during Halloween in present-day Salem—when odd behavior and wacky costumes are the norm. But their hilarious shenanigans masked evil ambitions. Leave it to three clever kids to thwart their plans!

Captain Jack Sparrow, Pirates of the Caribbean

Our favorite Pirate of the Caribbean, Jack Sparrow, famously observed, “It’s remarkable how often those two traits [madness and brilliance] coincide.” And we think Jack is brilliantly mad! He can usually get himself out of a jam by the use of his wit, rather than his sword, and while you could attribute some of his behavior to a little too much pirate’s grog, we like to think Jack would be just as, shall we say, “quirky,” if he only drank water. Savvy?

Fred MacMurray as The Absent-Minded Professor

Professor Ned Brainard—famously portrayed by Fred MacMurray in the 1961 Disney film—was so scatter-brained, he forgot to show up to his own wedding… three different times! It’s a miracle he managed to create his infamous Flubber, a rubbery substance with an amazing antigravity agent.

Animal from The Muppets

The true epitome of “silly Disney characters,” Animal is as wild and maniacal as they come! His outrageous behavior is a constant source of both consternation and bemusement from his fellow Electric Mayhem members, but he occasionally exhibits a surprisingly refined taste (see: his plans to view the Renoir exhibit at London’s National Gallery in The Great Muppet Caper).

Big The Good Dinosaur Sneak Peeks—Plus More in News Briefs

The Good Dinosaur: New Trailer & Disney Parks Sneak

Y’know how that giant asteroid hit Earth and rendered dinosaurs extinct? Well, imagine if it had bypassed our little blue planet altogether. What would life be like? That’s the question Disney•Pixar’s next animated film, The Good Dinosaur, aims to answer. And a brand-new trailer, above, clues us into the big adventures awaiting Arlo the Apatosaurus and his human pal, Spot.

Plus, if you’re planning on visiting Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort soon, you’ll be able to catch an exclusive The Good Dinosaur sneak peek—beginning October 16. At Disney California Adventure park, the prehistoric preview will be shown at the Bug’s Life Theater, with cool in-theater effects. And guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will check out this early look at clips from the film as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction on Mickey Avenue.

The Good Dinosaur, directed by Peter Sohn, charges into theaters on November 25!

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
Fall 2015
D23 Member VIP Nights at The Lion King
October 9
Lunch with a Disney Legend: Kathryn Beaumont
October 25
Haunted Gingerbread House Building Workshop
November 6
VIP Studio Experience with Disney Legend Andreas Deja
November 7
D23 Day at the Walt Disney Studios and Archives
November 14
Pinocchio: 75 Years of a Disney Classic
November 14
Mickey’s of Glendale Orlando Shopping Event
December 13
Holiday Gingerbread House Building Workshop
Studios
November 25
The Good Dinosaur opens in theaters.
December 18
Star Wars: The Force Awakens opens in theaters.
January 29
The Finest Hours opens in theaters.
March 4
Zootopia opens in theaters.
April 15
The Jungle Book opens in theaters.

Parks
September 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27; October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31; and November 1
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park
September 25, 28, 30; October 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
Mickey’s Halloween Party 2015 at Disneyland
September 25-November 16
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
November 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29; and December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park
Television
November 30
It’s Your 50th Christmas, Charlie Brown airs at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Disney Cruise Line’s “Merrytime” Holiday Fun

Halloween may still be around the corner, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start planning some holiday vacation fun—and Disney Cruise Line has got us covered with their “Very Merrytime Cruises,” starting this November aboard their Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy ships.

Besides fabulous turkey-dinner feasts, fun “snow flurries,” and special New Year’s Eve galas, the “Very Merrytime” cruises will also feature jolly “stem-to-stern” events like “Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” in the atrium lobby on the first night of the cruise (where Disney characters lead a holiday music sing-a-long) and “Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball,” where cruisers will welcome guests of honor Santa and Mrs. Claus with a huge celebration featuring Broadway-style entertainment, favorite Disney characters, and classic yuletide tunes.

Sail over to Disney Cruise Line’s website for more information on all the oceanic merriment (including destinations and sail dates)!

Assemble the Fun with Playmation Marvel’s Avengers

Big doings over the weekend for Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media (DCPI): their fantastic new Playmation Marvel’s Avengers—called “the next step in the evolution of play”—rocketed into toy stores across the United States and Canada! The cutting edge system of connected toys and “wearables” fuses technology with imagination to create a totally new category of play, which aims to inspire both kids and their parents to get active (not to mention creative!) at playtime.

Created by a team of Imagineers, tech experts, and storytellers from across Disney, Playmation uses familiar technologies including smart toys, wireless technology, and motion sensors—but applies them in completely new ways. The Playmation Marvel’s Avengers Starter Park includes five connected toys (there’s also a free downloadable app), and getting started is easy; Iron Man’s JARVIS himself takes you through a tutorial once you fit the first piece of gear on your arm. (Yes, it fits adults too… and yes, we already have this on our Christmas wish list.) Look for the next installments of Playmation in 2016 and ’17.

ABC Family Becomes Freeform in 2016

As far as “New Year’s resolutions” go, ABC Family is making a big one. Resolving to better represent their target audience of “Becomers” (those of us between the ages of 14 and 34, who are learning both who we are and who we want to become), the network is changing its name, its look, and its feel—and starting in January 2016, it’ll debut to all and sundry as (drum roll, please… ) Freeform!

But don’t worry: All your favorite shows—like Pretty Little Liars, The Fosters, Young & Hungry, and Baby Daddy—are returning (offering up their big winter premieres in early ’16), and the name change also heralds the launch of new original series Shadowhunters and Recovery Road.

To celebrate the announcement, fans can submit photos and videos to Freeformfan.com that imaginatively express the word “freeform” in a way that’s inspired by their own lives and what they’re passionate about. And the best part? The submissions might be used as part of Freeform’s upcoming launch. So start creating!

“Check It Out”: Nicki Minaj Joins ABC Family

She’s a Grammy®-nominated rapper… a multi-platinum superstar… and now an executive producer! Nicki Minaj—she of the brightly colored, ever-changing hair—is bringing the story of her early family life to ABC Family. Nicki will executive produce and appear in the new half-hour comedy series, which will shoot in her hometown of Queens, New York, later this year.

The single-camera scripted series is based on Nicki’s immigration from Trinidad in the early 1990s, focusing on her childhood in Queens with her vibrant family—and the personal (and musical) evolution that led to her eventual fame.

Stay “right by [our] side” here at D23 for more information as it becomes available.

Sarah Michelle Gellar Joins the Dark Side on Star Wars Rebels

As if the return of Star Wars Rebels to Disney XD (the second season begins Wednesday, October 14) wasn’t cool enough… Buffy the Vampire Slayer star (and wife of series regular Freddie Prinze Jr.) Sarah Michelle Gellar will be featured this season as the cunning and crafty Seventh Sister Inquisitor! A master of deception, she is tasked by Darth Vader to track down the rebels and capture any surviving Jedi. She’s deceitful, manipulative, and deadly with a Lightsaber. (Sounds cool, right?)

East Coast fans, take note: Sarah will make an appearance at the Star Wars Rebels Panel at New York Comic-Con on Thursday, October 8! See her in person with several of the show’s other stars, including Ashley Eckstein (Ahsoka Tano) and Taylor Gray (Ezra Bridger).

Sail Into 2017 with Disney Cruise Line

Imagine setting sail on a state-of-the-art ship, with big Disney fun around ever corner. That’s what a Disney Cruise Line vacation is like—and they’ve just announced new itineraries and destinations for early 2017!

Disney Cruise Line (DCL) returns to favorite destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas on a variety of itineraries, most from über-popular Florida ports. Limited-time engagements in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Galveston, Texas, complete the lineup for the first part of the year. During these sailings, DCL guests will visit gorgeous tropical locales, sunbathe on beautiful sandy beaches, and explore local marketplaces. Plus, most cruises will include a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise reserved exclusively for lucky DCL guests.

Bookings open to the public on Thursday, October 8. For more information on these early ’17 itineraries (and on DCL in general), check out their website here.

Now That’s What We Call an Amazing New Disney Music Collection

Everyone loves those “NOW That’s What I Call Music!” Collections (we’ve bought our fair share over the years), and the three previously released “NOW That’s What I Call Disney” volumes were particularly awesome. So color us excited for the newest collaboration between “NOW…” and Walt Disney Records! “NOW That’s What I Call Disney Princess” features 20 favorite musical moments that have been enchanting and entertaining audiences for generations, including “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid, “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, “Someday My Prince Will Come” from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, “Colors of the Wind” from Pocahontas, “Beauty and the Beast” from Beauty and the Beast, “Reflection” from Mulan, and many more!

“NOW That’s What I Call Disney Princess” will be released on CD, and as a digital download, on October 30. (Particularly good timing if you’re dressing as a Disney Princess this Halloween!)

Light Speed to the Library: Star Wars Reads Day Goes Galactic

Calling all Jedis! Lucasfilm and Disney Worldwide Publishing just announced full details for the fourth annual Star Wars Reads Day, which will delight readers across the galaxy on Saturday, October 10. Since the inaugural Star Wars Reads Day in 2012, more than 2,500 events have encouraged fans to read timeless stories based on the films—and for the first time, this year’s festivities will also feature titles from the recently released “Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Initiative, which includes more than 20 print and digital books and comics for readers of all ages.

Participants in this year’s events include Disney, Marvel, DK Books, Scholastic, Abrams, Chronicle Books, and more—and the lineup of events will feature Star Wars-themed games and activities, signings, meet-and-greets, and readings at bookstores, libraries, and other venues… all in an effort to promote literacy and unite fans of the iconic film franchise. May the force (of knowledge) be with you!

Disneyland Hotel: Then and Now

The iconic and beloved Disneyland Hotel turns 60 years old today, and we wanted to toast one of our favorite hotels anywhere with a gallery of images—many never seen before. Some of our favorite images are ones Disneyland Hotel historian Don Ballard discovered in winter 2011 at a storage vault in Hollywood (a small sample of those images appeared in the 2015 summer issue of Disney twenty-three), but we think you’ll enjoy all of these photographs—a visual celebration of a hotel that has provided a magical home away from home for generations of visitors to Disneyland.

To learn more about the Disneyland Hotel, you can read Don Ballard’s two books, Disneyland Hotel: The Early Years, 1954–1988 and Disneyland Hotel: 1954–1959, The Little Motel in the Middle of the Orange Grove.

35 Things We Love About Epcot

October 1, 2015January 2, 2018

When Walt Disney began work on EPCOT, or Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, he envisioned a “living blueprint of the future”—a city that would demonstrate all the imagination and ingenuity America had to offer the world. Walt’s original vision of EPCOT may not have come to fruition, but a theme park with much the same inspiration opened 35 years ago on October 1, 1982 as a true celebration of human achievement.

Epcot’s two themed areas—Future World, exploring technological discovery and scientific success; and World Showcase, featuring pavilions representing 11 different nations—aim to both enlighten and entertain. There’s so much to see and do at Epcot, even after all these years… so we here at D23 decided to relive some of our favorite attractions, dining experiences, park locations, and events by recounting—in no particular order (How could we rank ‘em? They’re all great!)—35 things we absolutely love about the park. Did your favorites make our list?

1. The fiber-optic walkway near Spaceship Earth
This illuminated walkway, from close to the park’s entrance and into Future World, lights up the night; a small detail, but one that makes us smile every time we see it.

2. The American Adventure
With its heartfelt combination of storytelling, amazingly advanced Audio-Animatronics^® figures, and other special effects—including a score by Academy Award^® nominee (and Disney Legend) Buddy Baker—this 29-minute stage show dramatizes our nation’s illustrious history and limitless future.

3. Skolebrød
A treat offered by Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe at the Norway Pavilion, skolebrød (or “school bread”) consists of a sweet bread roll filled with vanilla custard, then covered with icing and toasted coconut. Okay, we could seriously use one right now…

4. Biergarten Restaurant
Venture to the Germany Pavilion, and you can celebrate Oktoberfest all year long! The restaurant features amazing German cuisine and plenty of live entertainment.

5. Yearly Epcot Festivals
What could possibly be more fun than a trip to Epcot? A trip that coincides with one of Epcot’s fantastic festivals! The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival each spring showcases all manner of memorable blooms and topiaries, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival every fall features celebrity chefs and countless delicious treats, and the Epcot International Festival of the Arts showcases the ultimate cultural celebration as food, art and entertainment perfectly merge. And during the holiday season, you won’t want to miss Holidays Around the World with the beautiful Candlelight Processional.

6. Spaceship Earth
Need we say more? Oh, but we will! It’s an architectural marvel, and a veritable Walt Disney World Resort landmark. The geosphere is a whopping 165-feet in diameter, standing 15 feet above the ground on six legs. Inside, guests ride upward on a journey that explores mankind’s technological advances, from the Stone Age through the computer age and beyond.

7. Club Cool
When we’re thirsty, we’ve been known to take a break at Club Cool—a popular spot where you can enjoy complimentary samples of Coca-Cola products from around the world.

8. Impressions de France
Enter the France Pavilion’s Palais du Cinema and get swept away by an 18-minute film detailing the charm, romance, and breathtaking grandeur of one of Europe’s most beguiling countries.

9. Walking the World Showcase Promenade
Just taking a stroll around the Lagoon, appreciating the sights and sounds of 11 different nations in one afternoon… It’s one of the main reasons we love this park so much!

10. Martin Short’s Narration for O Canada!
When we first found out Martin Short hosts the newest version (updated in 2007) of the Canada Pavilion’s O Canada! Circle-Vision 360° film, we just had to check it out! (We’re big fans.) His dialogue is clever and hilarious, and you’ll probably find yourself longing for a trip to the “Great White North” once the film’s over.

11. Circle-Vision 360° Films
Epcot is the only park where guests can still experience Circle-Vision 360°, an immersive Disney innovation that first amazed guests at Disneyland Park in 1955. Reflections of China and O Canada! are can’t-miss attractions at their respective pavilions.

12. Journey Into Imagination with Figment
Figment is a beloved Epcot fan favorite, first delighting guests with his pal Dreamfinder on the original Journey Into Imagination dark ride from 1983 to 1998. The mischievous purple dragon now joins Dr. Nigel Channing (played by Eric Idle) as they set out to prove how “imagination works the best when it’s set free.”

13. Pick-a-Pearl at the Japan Pavilion
Inside the Mitsukoshi department store at the Japan Pavilion is a totally fun “pick-a-pearl” station—where guests can choose an oyster (or three) from several large tanks and have the beautiful pearl inside made into jewelry right before their eyes. We especially enjoy the enthusiastic Cast Members here!

14. Living with the Land
A Future World attraction that reflects Walt’s original EPCOT vision, Living with the Land finds guests touring greenhouses of the future and learning how we can better “meet tomorrow’s need for food production, yet still respect the need of the land.” Many of the living plants are actually harvested and served in Walt Disney World Resort restaurants!

15. Entertainment at the United Kingdom Pavilion
Performers like the British Revolution rock band (expertly channeling groups like The Beatles and Queen) in Epcot’s UK Pavilion are always memorable.

16. Frozen Ever After
A newer addition to Epcot, Frozen Ever After has been delighting Epcot explorers for just over a year, with innovative Audio-Animatronics®, stunning scenes, and the music we know and love from the hit film.

17. The San Angel Inn at the Mexico Pavilion
Imagine dining in the shadow of beautiful Mayan ruins, right on the “waterfront,” without having to leave the country. That’s what a delicious meal at the San Angel Inn is like!

18. Fountain of Nations
Can we even talk about Epcot without mentioning the iconic Fountain of Nations? It could be argued that the fountain is almost as iconic to Epcot as Spaceship Earth––a trip to the park doesn’t feel complete without catching one of the fountain’s many daily performances.

19. Mexico Pavilion
For the uninitiated, this particular Pavilion might not seem as awe-inspiring from the outside as the others. But once you venture into its Mayan pyramid, you realize just how much the Mexico Pavilion has to offer! We especially enjoy its village market (great souvenirs) and its perpetual state of gorgeous “twilight.”

20. Voices of Liberty at The American Adventure
Epcot’s legendary a capella group brings beautiful music to guests year ’round, and their repertoire covers everything from patriotic tunes to current hits like “Let It Go” (their version will truly give you goose-bumps!). As far as we’re concerned, they’re a “must-see” on your Epcot itinerary.

21. World Showcase Cast Members
Epcot’s World Showcase truly wouldn’t be as enjoyable (and memorable) as it is without its Cast Members. Each Pavilion boasts a vast majority of Cast Members from its respective country—which adds that extra layer of Disney magic. You can learn so much about a culture from someone who really lives it.

22. International Gateway
If you find yourself going to Epcot for some World Showcase fun, don’t forget about the International Gateway. This fantastic perk finds the Friendship Boats shuttling guests to a special Epcot entrance right at World Showcase. Super convenient!

23. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
Most nights, the World Showcase Lagoon is transformed into an incredible showplace featuring one of the best nighttime fireworks spectaculars in the history of Disney Parks (in our opinion, at least!). IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth is a three-part look at the history of our planet, celebrating the indomitable spirit of humanity.

24. Glühwein
Glühwein (translates to “glow wine”) is a traditional German holiday drink similar to mulled wine. We’ve heard tell from German Cast Members that the smell alone brings back memories of home! Usually offered during the winter months, it’s the perfect drink to warm you up as you stroll “around the world.”

25. Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros
A great way escape the Florida heat (or rain), this slow boat ride through the Mexico Pavilion is a treat for both young and young at heart. Donald Duck has gone missing, and it’s up to Panchito (the Mexican charro rooster) and José Carioca (the Brazilian parrot) to find him! (Spoiler alert: We found him.)

26. Disney Characters Throughout the Park
Disney characters can often be seen throughout Epcot, but we especially love seeing characters like Mulan, Snow White, and Belle in their native “lands” (i.e., the China Pavilion, the Germany Pavilion and the France Pavilion, respectively).

27. Coral Reef Restaurant
It’s more than a restaurant—it’s an event. While at the Coral Reef, diners enjoy delectable dishes while surrounded by the amazing “Seas with Nemo & Friends” aquarium—which was the largest when The Living Seas opened in 1986. Keep an eye out for sharks, turtles, stingrays, and even an occasional scuba-diving Mickey!

28. Garden Railway Miniature Train
A little detail at the Germany Pavilion that’s big on fun! If we were only smaller, we’d want to ride this train all around the Pavilion, past quaint, diminutive buildings. And during the International Flower & Garden Festival, the tiny town even gets its own topiaries. We make sure we never miss this special addition to the World Showcase.

29. Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure
Agent P (the secret-agent alter ego of Perry the Platypus from Phineas and Ferb) must stop Dr. Doofenschmirtz’s plans for total world domination—and he needs our help! We had a blast playing this fun scavenger hunt the last time we visited Epcot. After receiving a special interactive device (from the “recruitment center” near the Italy Pavilion), you’re sent on “missions” throughout World Showcase pavilions.

30. The Spaceship Earth 1960s Computer Technician
This one’s super specific, but it’s something we look forward to each time we enjoy Spaceship Earth. As the ride makes its way through an example of a computer “mainframe” room, a hip 1960s computer tech is seen—wearing a fashionable plaid skirt and knee-high go-go boots! (We really love the attention to detail.)

31. Morocco Pavilion
The winding streets, the sights and smells… setting foot in the Morocco Pavilion, it almost feels like you’ve teleported yourself into the middle of Marakkesh! The authentic architecture is really something to behold—and we never leave Epcot without sampling some shawarma at the Tangierine Café.

32. World Showcase Wine Walk
Want to sample some international wines without breaking the bank? An off-the-beaten-track event for the adults in your Epcot party, the World Showcase Wine Walk features six wine tastings (two each from the Germany, France, and Italy Pavilion wine retailers). We’ve been known to partake a time or two.

33. Mission: SPACE
This thrilling ride in Epcot’s Future World fulfills our fantasy of becoming an astronaut—without ever leaving Earth’s always-helpful gravitational pull. After a mission briefing from our Capcom (played by Gina Torres), you’re rocketed through the stars on an X-2 Deep Space Shuttle before attempting a landing on Mars.

34. Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture
Japan knows how to do cute (case in point, literally everything at Tokyo Disney Resort). In fact, the Japanese do cute so well, there’s a whole culture around it––which you can learn lots more about in Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture, a special exhibit hosted in the Japan Pavilion. Open since 2015, this bright and colorful exhibit in the Bijustu-kan Gallery features all sorts of adorable items that will have you saying “kawaii!”

35. International Treats
Creating our own treat trail by picking up candy and sweets native to each pavilion is one of our favorite ways to take a walk through World Showcase! It’s so fun to try favorite treats from all over the world, and even find new favorites of our own along the way.

Whistle While They Work—Spotlight on Dream Disney Jobs

Some kids grow up drawing Disney characters and know they want to be Disney animators. Sometimes a first visit to a Disney park is all it takes to spark a young guest toward a career as a Disney Imagineer. But the world of Disney is as vast as fans’ imaginations, and we’ve uncovered some jobs that most people wouldn’t even think existed, from overseeing all of the candy on Main Street, U.S.A. to brainstorming ideas for video games in a think tank. Mary Poppins said, “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun,” and we invite you now to check out these jobs that have a whole Periodic Table full of fun!

Sarah Day
Topiary Engineer, Disneyland Resort

D23: Can you describe your job in a sentence or two?
SD: I’m a Topiary Engineer at the Disneyland Resort, where I currently train and care for 33 topiaries. My role includes plant selection, shaping new topiaries, pruning and sheering mature topiaries, and inspecting all topiaries to ensure they are in good health.

D23: What would you say is the best, most exciting part of what you do?
SD: One of my greatest joys is seeing our Guests enjoy the topiaries! The first time I sailed on it’s a small world, I marveled about the impossibility that plants could be shaped like animals and pointed out my favorites to my family. It fills me with such a great sense of pride to know that I now help create that same magic for others!

D23: How did your schooling or early experience prepare you for this job?
SD: I grew up on a small farm in Washington state so I have always been comfortable working with plants, but I first discovered my passion for the creative side of horticulture when taking classes in high school. In order to pursue my dream of becoming a Disneyland Gardener, I enrolled at Orange Coast College and am currently earning my degree with a major in ornamental horticulture.

D23: Was there something in Disney that inspired you as a child to pursue this path?
SD: When I was 7 years old, my family took our first vacation to Disneyland—I can still recall meeting my hero, Mickey Mouse, for the first time! As our week came to a close, I declared that I would work at Disneyland when I grew up! It was a promise to my future self that I will always be grateful I kept.

Janine Jones-Clark
Director, Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, Disney | ABC Television Group

D23: Can you describe your job in a sentence or two?
JJ-C: Our team identifies creative talent with diverse and unique perspectives for writing and directing consideration for Disney-ABC programming. In addition to introducing experienced writers and directors to creative executives across the TV group, we oversee the Disney-ABC Writing and Directing Programs, both of which are longtime creative programs that have launched the careers of many, including writer Zahir McGhee (Supervising Producer, Scandal) and director Seith Mann (Grey’s Anatomy, The Walking Dead).

D23: What would you say is the best, most exciting part of what you do?
JJ-C: It’s pretty exciting and rewarding when we see talent that we identified and cultivated launch successful careers. And, when those careers flourish at Disney-ABC, the excitement is enhanced tremendously!

D23: How did your schooling or early experience prepare you for this job?
JJ-C: I feel like my degree in journalism has been instrumental in my ability to clearly articulate myself both verbally and in writing. And, it was my writing that led me to the field of publicity where I held positions at CBS, Fox, NBC, and The WB. After several years I transitioned into current programming and later, development, which is where my passion to work with writers and directors comes from. In my current position I feel as though I have the best of both worlds—I have the chance to work with talented aspiring writers and directors—and I have the opportunity to put on my publicity hat when helping talent with identifying their personal brand so that they can better market themselves to our executives and producers.

D23: Was there something in Disney that inspired you as a child to pursue this path?
JJ-C: I recall how exciting Sunday evening TV was because I could not wait for The Wonderful World of Disney! Just thinking about it now makes me smile… and hum that opening credits song “When You Wish Upon a Star.” As a kid I loved the different stories mostly because they made me happy. Now that I am a big kid, so-to-speak, I realize that the emotional arcs of those compelling characters are what attracted me at such a young age. And, whether it is an ABC, ABC Family, or Disney Channel series, memorable characters and great storytelling make me proud to be part of the Disney-ABC team.

Kirstin Makela
Graphic Designer, Walt Disney Imagineering

D23: Can you describe your job in a sentence or two?
KM: I am thrilled to say that I have my dream job as a Graphic Designer for Walt Disney Imagineering. As a Graphic Designer, I create a wide range of assets to support the stories in the Disney Parks, from large marquees and murals to banners, posters, and even textiles.

D23: What would you say is the best, most exciting part of what you do?
KM: Every day, I get to use Disney’s immense catalogue of beloved stories and characters as my muse. There’s never a lack of inspiration. I am continually humbled by the opportunity to add my creative voice to the Disney Parks.

D23: How did your schooling or early experience prepare you for this job?
KM: My college education was heavily based on interdisciplinary creation, so I learned how to tap into a range of different skills. Since our projects at Walt Disney Imagineering are so thematically diverse, it’s helpful to flow easily between artistic styles.

D23: Was there something in Disney that inspired you as a child to pursue this path?
KM: When I was little, I would religiously watch my VHS tape of Disney Sing-Along Songs: Disneyland Fun. I would get so excited to watch the different vignettes of the attractions. My parents took me to Walt Disney World Resort for the first time when I was 7, and I couldn’t believe that all of the magic was right there in front of me instead of on my TV screen. I was immediately captivated and it hasn’t stopped since!

Jennifer Bull
Associate 2D Artist, Disney Interactive

D23: Can you describe your job in a sentence or two?
JB: As an artist in the Think Tank [a Disney Interactive intern program dedicated to new concept creation, product ideation, and talent development], I was a creative resource for all of Disney Interactive! I mostly worked on the art side of things—e.g., concept painting, mock-ups, UI/UX, and visual targets—but collectively, the Think Tank touched nearly every aspect of the game-making process.

D23: What would you say is the best, most exciting part of what you do?
JB: The most exciting part of being in the Think Tank is that every day is unique. One day you’re working on a project and the next you’re brainstorming for something completely different. The ability to shift gears quickly or wear many different hats is a part of the culture here, but no matter what we’re doing it’s rooted in creativity and passion for games.

D23: How did your schooling or early experience prepare you for this job?
JB: School prepared me for this job like a decent trailer for an amazing movie. I learned just enough to know what to expect, but no idea how incredible it would be and how much I’d learn about myself in the process. In short, school gave me potential. This job actualizes it.

D23: Was there something in Disney that inspired you as a child to pursue this path?
JB: Like so many others, Disney movies sparked my imagination by showing me worlds beyond anything I could experience in day-to-day life. Games provided me with exactly the same. So combining the two is not only intuitive—it’s a dream come true.

Natividad Ayon
Creative, Candy Production Area Manager, Disneyland Resort

D23: Can you describe your job in a sentence or two?
NA: I oversee the production team of Candy Makers in five kitchens in Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, and Downtown Disney that support the entire Disneyland Resort. I also lead the team on creativity on new items.

D23: What would you say is the best/most exciting part of what you do?
NA: Creativity of new offerings. Seeing the process through from idea or concept to actual finished product—for instance, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Day of the Dead apples, cake pop, and crispy treats…

D23: How did your schooling or early experience prepare you for this job?
NA: It helped me to know what the Guests are looking for, what the next “on trend” item is… To be creative.

D23: Was there something in Disney that inspired you as a child to pursue this path?
NA: I wanted to be a part of something that brings joy and happiness no matter what age you are.

Quincy Strattman
Merchandise Presentation Manager, Disneyland Resort

D23: Can you describe your job in a sentence or two?
QS: I am responsible for the creation, direction, and implementation of new creative visual techniques that promote exciting shop environments for our Guests.

D23: What would you say is the best/most exciting part of what you do?
QS: The best part of my job is getting to be creative in our storytelling, introducing new visual techniques, finding and designing new props and fixtures that will help us to convey the message or story about a specific product, film character, or attraction.

D23: How did your schooling or early experience prepare you for this job?
QS: I went to school for Interior design and that really gave me a great starting foundation. I use my knowledge about balance, spacing, flow, and colors every day in my role. I have always been a creative, problem-solving person, and I use those traits to develop creative displays and maintain the necessary standards to tell incredible stories through our merchandise.

D23: Was there something in Disney that inspired you as a child to pursue this path?
QS: Disney inspired me to dream the impossible dream as a child. I hired into Disney thinking it was going to be a part-time job for me. That part-time job has turned into a full-time career that is better than anything I could have imagined.

Danny Elfman to Bring the Pumpkin King to Life at Hollywood Bowl

If you are as wickedly enchanted by Danny Elfman and his music as we are, then the opportunity to witness his brilliance in person is one you won’t want to miss! For two days only (October 31- November 1), Elfman will take to the concert stage at the Hollywood Bowl for a spine-tingling live performance, during which he will revisit his role of Jack Skellington, singing live to film for a very special screening of Disney’s Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Joining Elfman will be a cast of singers and special guest artists performing the film’s acclaimed songs live, and Conductor John Mauceri will conduct a full orchestra and choir performing the film’s classic score and songs live to picture.

Step into Jack Skellington’s world as the Hollywood Bowl transforms into Halloween Town for the eerie event, which also will include an audience participation costume contest (naturally, Tim Burton-inspired costumes are encouraged) and other pre-show activities.

Click here to purchase tickets or call (800) 745-3000—and hurry, we bet these tickets will be gone before you can say “There’s children throwing snowballs, instead of throwing heads!” For a special Halloween treat, D23 Members can receive 15% off through October 28 by using coupon code Disneyatthebowl!

Want more Danny Elfman? See the moment he became a Disney Legend here!

The Good Dinosaur: New Trailer & Disney Parks Sneak

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