Disney News, Discussion & an Element of Fun - 2024 Edition

[LKing]

I had always guessed that Avatar would be built in the new/upcoming Disneyland Forward expansion area?

It sounds like that will only be the case if they expand DCA's footprint. It will not be part of a third park.

 

[Elijah Abrams]

It sounds like that will only be the case if they expand DCA's footprint. It will not be part of a third park.

The DLForward plans indicate that they want to expand DCA's footprint.

 

[Naomeri]

https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/9-c...llywood-nights/?CMP=SOC-DPFY24Q4wo0912240025F

 

[LKing]

The DLForward plans indicate that they want to expand DCA's footprint.

Yes, I understand. At D23, D'Amaro said that he wasn't going to discuss Disneyland Forward. That is why there is so much debate about where Avatar will go. If it is going in the area of park expansion then it will be part of Disneyland Forward. A new parking structure and transportation hub need to be built before DCA can be expanded. Of course, he only mentioned that it will be a part of DCA and didn't mention a date for the project to begin.

 

[Duckbug.Ducktales]

View attachment 895993

https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/9-c...llywood-nights/?CMP=SOC-DPFY24Q4wo0912240025F

Cool! We're going this December, I hope it's good!

 

[BrianL]

I just saw this:

https://deadline.com/2024/09/disney-frozen-jennifer-lee-jared-bush-1236094164/

Jared Bush (Encanto) is now CCO of WDAS, with Jennifer Lee stepping back to direct filmmaking for Frozen sequels. Interesting turn of events.

 

[soniam]

I just saw this:

https://deadline.com/2024/09/disney-frozen-jennifer-lee-jared-bush-1236094164/

Jared Bush (Encanto) is now CCO of WDAS, with Jennifer Lee stepping back to direct filmmaking for Frozen sequels. Interesting turn of events.

She always seemed more interested in directing. It’s nice that she has the opportunity to change positions. It could be an interesting way to run WDAS, with different people helming when they aren’t currently deep into a production. It allows creatives to actually steer the creativity of the studios.

 

[ThereYouSeeHer]

REVIEW: We Tried Every Item On New Menu at Pecos Bill Cafe in Magic Kingdom

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe at Magic Kingdom launched an updated menu, so we swung by the counter-service restaurant to try the new items.

The menu has new entrees, sides, desserts, and create-your-own options. Guests can add Green Chili Pork, Coca-Cola Cherry Braised Beef, or Citrus-Chipotle Chicken to one of four bases. They can double the protein or add a second protein for $0.50.

Nacho Bowl – $12.99​

House-fried Corn Tortilla Chips smothered with Stewed Pinto Beans, Chipotle Queso, and Pico de Gallo

We added a double portion of Coca-Cola Cherry Braised Beef to the Nacho Bowl for $0.50. There’s a sweetness to the beef. It’s tender, juicy, and kind of stewy, which feels right for a nacho bowl. The dish has a kick to it that seems to be from the queso. It’s kind of basic but we liked it.

Rating out of 7: 5

Grilled Masa Flatbread – $10.49​

Grilled Corn Flatbread topped with Sweet Potatoes, Stewed Pinto Beans, Plant-based Pepper Jack “Cheese,” Shredded Lettuce, Pico de Gallo, and Plant-based Lime Crema

This is vegan but you can add any of the proteins if you want. It’s cut in half like you’re gonna pick it up, but you can’t. It cuts easily, though. It reminds us of a Crunchwrap from Taco Bell. It has fantastic seasoning with a lot of kick and flavor. The corn base is surprisingly soft and works well with everything else. It’s huge so we recommend sharing.

Rating out of 7: 6

Double Chili con Queso Burger – $16.49​

Two Flame-broiled All-Beef Patties topped with Chili con Carne, Chipotle Queso, and Corn Chips

This is spicier than other Magic Kingdom counter-service burgers. The patty itself isn’t great. It’s overcooked but the seasoning and toppings fix it, making it the best quick-service burger in the park.

Rating out of 7: 5

Guacamole – $2.50​

We added the guacamole to the rice bowl and hated it. It’s the worst guacamole we’ve ever had.

Rating out of 7: 1

Sweet Corn Mousse – $6.29​

White Chocolate and Raspberry Powder

This is white chocolate mousse shaped and decorated to look like street corn. There are some hidden chunks of corn, too. It’s surprisingly fantastic. It tastes like sweet corn but with extra dessert sweetness. Almost anyone will like this.

Rating out of 7: 7

 

[Bibbidi_Boo]

REVIEW: We Tried Every Item On New Menu at Pecos Bill Cafe in Magic Kingdom

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe at Magic Kingdom launched an updated menu, so we swung by the counter-service restaurant to try the new items.

The menu has new entrees, sides, desserts, and create-your-own options. Guests can add Green Chili Pork, Coca-Cola Cherry Braised Beef, or Citrus-Chipotle Chicken to one of four bases. They can double the protein or add a second protein for $0.50.

Nacho Bowl – $12.99​

House-fried Corn Tortilla Chips smothered with Stewed Pinto Beans, Chipotle Queso, and Pico de Gallo

We added a double portion of Coca-Cola Cherry Braised Beef to the Nacho Bowl for $0.50. There’s a sweetness to the beef. It’s tender, juicy, and kind of stewy, which feels right for a nacho bowl. The dish has a kick to it that seems to be from the queso. It’s kind of basic but we liked it.

Rating out of 7: 5

Grilled Masa Flatbread – $10.49​

Grilled Corn Flatbread topped with Sweet Potatoes, Stewed Pinto Beans, Plant-based Pepper Jack “Cheese,” Shredded Lettuce, Pico de Gallo, and Plant-based Lime Crema

This is vegan but you can add any of the proteins if you want. It’s cut in half like you’re gonna pick it up, but you can’t. It cuts easily, though. It reminds us of a Crunchwrap from Taco Bell. It has fantastic seasoning with a lot of kick and flavor. The corn base is surprisingly soft and works well with everything else. It’s huge so we recommend sharing.

Rating out of 7: 6

Double Chili con Queso Burger – $16.49​

Two Flame-broiled All-Beef Patties topped with Chili con Carne, Chipotle Queso, and Corn Chips

This is spicier than other Magic Kingdom counter-service burgers. The patty itself isn’t great. It’s overcooked but the seasoning and toppings fix it, making it the best quick-service burger in the park.

Rating out of 7: 5

Guacamole – $2.50​

We added the guacamole to the rice bowl and hated it. It’s the worst guacamole we’ve ever had.

Rating out of 7: 1

Sweet Corn Mousse – $6.29​

White Chocolate and Raspberry Powder

This is white chocolate mousse shaped and decorated to look like street corn. There are some hidden chunks of corn, too. It’s surprisingly fantastic. It tastes like sweet corn but with extra dessert sweetness. Almost anyone will like this.

Rating out of 7: 7

This makes me sad, we really liked pecos bill the way it was and now none of this is anything any of us will like . But I am sure someone will like it.

 

[soniam]

This makes me sad, we really liked pecos bill the way it was and now none of this is anything any of us will like . But I am sure someone will like it.

It was better before the current iteration. Not sure if this new one is better than the current.

 

[Maleficent_Hades]

This makes me sad, we really liked pecos bill the way it was and now none of this is anything any of us will like . But I am sure someone will like it.

my husband and i always stopped there for the taco trio, so we are very sad about this change. only thing on the menu now i might try is the nachos. the burger sounded like it would be good until i read chipotle, too spicy for me.

 

[Naomeri]

Trailer for Thunderbolts*

 

[crazy4wdw]

Disney legend's, Dick Nunis, house is on the market for $10 million:

https://mickeyblog.com/2024/09/23/d...-area-home-has-hit-the-market-for-10-million/

 

[BrianL]

Disney legend's, Dick Nunis, house is on the market for $10 million:

https://mickeyblog.com/2024/09/23/d...-area-home-has-hit-the-market-for-10-million/

I'll invite everyone over for a party once I buy it...

*checks bank account*

...Oh, shoot - I'm just a tad short!

 

[SkyGuy]

Disney legend's, Dick Nunis, house is on the market for $10 million:

https://mickeyblog.com/2024/09/23/d...-area-home-has-hit-the-market-for-10-million/

Holy Miami-Vice-master bath, Batman.

 

[Tom_E_D]

Walt Disney World Extends Disability Access Service (DAS) Validity Period​

Walt Disney World has announced a significant change to its Disability Access Service (DAS) policy, doubling the validity period from 120 days to 240 days. This change is expected to benefit guests who rely on DAS, especially frequent visitors or those planning extended stays.

 

[zebrastreyepz]

Trailer for Thunderbolts*

I'm optimistic which might be a foolish thing. Bucky is my 2nd favorite MCU character so I'm hoping it's good.

 

[zebrastreyepz]

https://mickeyblog.com/2024/09/24/a-star-lord-meet-and-greet-is-coming-to-epcot/

We met him when he was meeting at DHS in 2018 and everyone in our party was laughing VERY hard!

 

[ThereYouSeeHer]

2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Will Start Even Earlier, Course Redirected

In an email to Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend runners, runDisney announced a change to the marathon’s course and start time.

The Walt Disney World Marathon will now start at 4:30 a.m. instead of 5 a.m. Disney notes this allows them to make changes to the race course, including more running through theme parks.

The race will now start with World Showcase at EPCOT. In previous years, that’s where the race ended. Runners will then pass Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, running along the Seven Seas Lagoon, before entering Magic Kingdom. In Magic Kingdom, they will race through each land and through Cinderella Castle.

See the updated race course below.

The 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is January 8 through 12, with the marathon on the last morning.

As usual, the weekend also includes a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon. Runners can participate in multiple races to complete Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge and the Dopey Challenge. Check out the medals for each race.

 

[ThereYouSeeHer]

Tornado Watch Issued for Walt Disney World Area as Hurricane Helene Approaches Florida

With Hurricane Helene gaining strength and edging closer to Florida, a Tornado Watch has been issued for Orange and Osceola Counties, including Walt Disney World.

As of early Thursday morning, Hurricane Helene is about 410 miles southwest of Leesburg, Florida, with sustained winds of 90 mph. The storm is moving north-northeast at 12 mph and is forecast to make landfall along the Florida Big Bend coast as a major hurricane this evening. Central Florida will experience tropical storm conditions, with winds of 60-65 mph and heavy rainfall of 1 to 3 inches, leading to potential flooding in low-lying areas.


Tampa International Airport to Close Ahead of Hurricane Helene, MCO Remains Open for Disney Travelers

As Hurricane Helene approaches Florida, Tampa International Airport (TPA) has announced the suspension of all commercial and cargo operations starting at 2 am on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The airport will remain closed until it can assess any damage after the storm has passed.

Although Tampa International Airport will be closed, Orlando International Airport (MCO)—the primary airport for Walt Disney World travelers—remains open and operational. However, severe weather from Hurricane Helene may cause flight delays or cancellations. Travelers are strongly encouraged to check with their airlines for any flight updates.


Walt Disney World Cancels Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Due to Hurricane Helene, Adjusts Magic Kingdom Hours

In response to the approaching Hurricane Helene, Walt Disney World has announced the cancellation of the sold-out Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom for Thursday, September 26, 2024.

Although Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party was set for Thursday evening, Magic Kingdom will remain open to guests until 8 pm (instead of the previously scheduled 6 pm closure) to provide additional park time ahead of the storm.

Guests with tickets to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will receive automatic refunds.


Walt Disney World Cancels Tours and Experiences as Hurricane Helene Strengthens

Additionally, Typhoon Lagoon and all miniature golf courses will be closed for the entire day.

At Disney's Animal Kingdom, the following Enchanting Extras Collection experiences are also canceled: Savor the Savanna, Up Close with Rhinos, Walking with Giants, and Wild Africa Trek.

Disney has stated that pools at Disney Resort hotels will continue to operate under normal conditions, suggesting that we may not see further significant closures at this time.