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The Disneyland Resort has announced that two of their popular holiday nighttime spectaculars will return during this holiday season! https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/06/holiday-nighttime-spectaculars-are-back-at-disneyland-resort/ It’s never too early to dream of dancing sugarplums and all things merry and bright as Disneyland Resort joins in the fun of Halfway to the Holidays! While we haven’t announced all of the holly jolly details just yet, here are a few of the sparkling favorites that will be returning this holiday season in California. Grab your favorite Disney cocoa mug to get in the spirit and get a glimpse! It’s all about the return of the nighttime spectaculars at Disneyland Resort. And continuing in the spirit of beloved nighttime entertainment, we are thrilled to confirm that two nighttime holiday favorites will be returning during the holiday season: “Believe… In Holiday Magic” fireworks and “World of Color – Season of Light”! “Believe… In Holiday Magic” fireworks is a dazzling nighttime display that brings a medley of heartwarming holiday music and culminates with a magical snowfall in several areas of the Disneyland park including Main Street, U.S.A., near the Rivers of America and in front of “it’s a small world.” “World of Color – Season of Light” will return to Paradise Bay during the holiday season at Disney California Adventure park! This spectacular winter fantasy blends classic holiday songs with memorable moments from treasured Disney and Pixar films that illuminate a wall of mist, as fountains dance in this mesmerizing spectacle with stories of friendship, family and love. We’re also delighted to share that the guest-favorite, 7-foot gingerbread house in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will return during the holiday season! A new take on a replica of the hotel each year, this annual tradition takes months for a 25-member team to create. Can you guess how many pounds of powdered sugar it will take to make this year? During the holiday season, you may see Disney characters donning their holiday finest, you can shop for the merriest of merchandise, and enjoy seasonal entertainment and décor throughout the parks, the Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. To be sure, you can also count on special menus and sweet treats a plenty! But for those of you who just can’t wait until then … we have some suggestions for you! To celebrate Halfway to the Holidays now for a limited time, June 23-30, 2022, you may get in the spirit at the Downtown Disney District with a Christmas Dinner Corn Dog made with a turkey hot dog, hand-dipped in batter, rolled in panko crumbs and served with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping at Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs. Or, for something more sweet, California Churro is offering a Peppermint Churro during this time. Additionally, you can let the festivities begin now and discover holiday treasures at the year-round holiday store on Main Street, U.S.A., Plaza Point Holiday Shoppe. Here you can find ornaments, housewares, linens, accessories and all kinds of holiday-themed merchandise every day of the year! Watch as cast members meticulously hand paint names on ornaments, and personalizing your ornaments is a great gift idea! Whether you have a holiday tradition you and your family are looking forward to at the Disneyland Resort, or if you’re looking to start a new tradition with us, we look forward to welcoming you for a most enchanting and wondrous season later this year. For now – happy Halfway to the Holidays to you! Theme Park reservations and valid admission for the same park on the same day are required for park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/Updates for important information to know before visiting.

Walt Disney World has announced the return of holiday favorites and new holiday experiences that will be offered across the resort during this year's holiday season including the return of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/06/mickeys-very-merry-christmas-party-holiday-favorites-return-to-disney-world/ Believe it or not, it takes 12 months to prepare for the holiday season at Walt Disney World Resort! As the year cycles through springtime showers, summer barbeques, and autumn harvests, cast members are also busy planning for the most wonderful time of the year at the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” In celebration of #HalfwayToTheHolidays, here’s a sneak peek of all things holly and jolly coming to Walt Disney World this year, including the return of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park. Celebrate the Season at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Holiday joy will unfold at Magic Kingdom as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns this year! On 24 select nights, Nov. 8 – Dec. 22, 2022, this separately ticketed event will invite guests to Magic Kingdom for an evening of merriment. Join Mickey and his pals at the Cinderella Castle stage for the ultimate must-watch Christmas extravaganza – “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.” The show features nostalgic and modern medleys of holiday music paired with dance performances. Minnie Mouse orchestrates a sparkling spectacle over Magic Kingdom as a part of “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks.” Full of holiday magic, the show includes dazzling castle projections, fireworks and seasonal songs. With his famous flying reindeer leading the way, Santa Claus will join Mickey Mouse and friends in the must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” as it makes its way through the park. Speaking of Santa Claus, he isn’t the only one who likes cookies during the holidays. Partygoers can indulge in complimentary cookies and hot cocoa at locations throughout Magic Kingdom. Magic Kingdom attractions will get a special dose of yuletide cheer. Holiday magic will once again transform the Jungle Cruise into the Jingle Cruise. And, as an exclusive treat for event attendees, Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Speedway, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor and Mad Tea Party will all receive a special holiday makeover. Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café becomes the coolest place to get down when denizens of the North Pole drop by for an intergalactic dance party! Also at Magic Kingdom, dance the night away alongside favorite Disney characters during an out-of-this-world holiday show, “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” on the Rockettower Plaza Stage. The fun continues for young partygoers and Disney Junior fans of all ages at Storybook Circus during the “Disney Junior Jingle Jam” as Disney Junior characters take part in a fun-filled dance celebration. NEW! In honor of the 50th Anniversary celebration, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party attendees will discover three jolly new photo opportunities. Guests will also receive a special 50th Anniversary commemorative keepsake, themed for the holidays. Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are limited and may be purchased online beginning July 7, 2022. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can begin purchasing tickets as early as June 30, 2022. Ticket prices will range from $149 – $199 per person. Event dates are: November: 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 29 December: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22 Discover Holiday Magic Across Walt Disney World Can’t get enough holiday magic? There are so many themed experiences to unwrap at Walt Disney World this upcoming season. Keep reading for a preview of what you can look forward to, beginning Nov. 11. Watch Disney Park Icons Transform for the Holidays During the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration, select theme park icons will continue to transform into Beacons of Magic, illuminating select nights with an EARidescent glow. And as a special yuletide surprise for guests, the magic will continue as each park celebrates the season with a delightful rotation of unique heartwarming holiday-themed displays. Say Hello to Santa Claus The holiday season will be an especially busy time for Jolly Old St. Nick as he makes special appearances throughout Walt Disney World. Catch him cruising down Hollywood Boulevard in his candy-apple red convertible at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during the Santa Claus Merry Motorcade and voyaging across the Discovery River as part of a festive flotilla at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Santa Claus will continue to spread the joyous spirit of the season during visits to Magic Kingdom Park and Disney Springs, where guests may have individual time to take photos and share their Christmas wishes. Finally, at EPCOT, Santa Claus will join storytellers from around the world as a part of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth beginning Nov. 25 Enjoy Festive Entertainment Across Walt Disney World Disney’s Animal Kingdom will come alive with the return of a Merry Menagerie of winter animals realized in the form of life-size, artisan-sculpted puppets. Just in time for the holidays, “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios adds a festive finale, featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and celebratory songs of the season. At Disney Springs, guests visiting Town Center will experience a magical snowfall, bringing the spirit of the North Pole to Central Florida. EPCOT will celebrate the return of “Candlelight Processional” during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays beginning Nov. 25, a beloved long-standing tradition of heartwarming holiday performances at America Gardens Theatre. This season, the Guardians will trade in their classic hits playlist for a mash-up of seasonal jams at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT. Guests will blast off to the tune of an awesome holiday single, bringing joy to Xandar and Terra, too. Disney PhotoPass photographers can help guests enhance their Disney vacation photos with holiday-themed Magic Shots at all four Walt Disney World theme parks, a new Disney PhotoPass Lens and virtual backdrops at the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs. Savor Festive Seasonal Flavors Holiday Cookie Stroll will return to EPCOT this year, inviting guests to partake in a sweet scavenger hunt during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. The festival will also herald mouthwatering menus of traditional and inspired adaptations of holiday dishes from around the world at special Holiday Kitchens. At Disney Springs, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar becomes Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar and will feature yuletide touches alongside festive food and craft cocktails. Select dining locations throughout Walt Disney World will celebrate the season with tasty winter-inspired dishes. Make sure to look for future announcements on the Disney Parks Blog for all the delicious details. Immerse Yourself in Delightful Holiday Décor The winter season will bring Christmastime cheer to every corner of Walt Disney World with whimsical décor that creates a nostalgic and joyous atmosphere. From twinkling trees and glittering ornaments to an abundance of tinsel and wreaths, the distinct personality of each Walt Disney World theme park shines brighter during the holidays. The merriment continues with the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth, where elaborately themed Christmas trees will draw inspiration from beloved characters, and at resorts across Walt Disney World, where guests will encounter artisan-made gingerbread creations displayed in select locations. Search for the Perfect Yuletide Gift Looking for a thoughtful present for the Disney Parks fan in your life? During the season of giving, guests will encounter new dedicated holiday collections at select shopping locations across Walt Disney World, including Disney Springs. Check back here on the Disney Parks Blog and Disney Parks social channels as we will be sharing a first look at the new merchandise lines debuting later this year. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog as we continue our spotlight on all things #HalfwayToTheHolidays across the Disney Parks. And if you’re planning a winter trip to Walt Disney World, visit our dedicated holidays page to learn more about how we’re celebrating the upcoming holiday season.

Universal has announced that The Horrors of Blumhouse featuring Freaky and The Black Phone is the newest house to be featured at this year's Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood! https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/hhn/en/us The Horrors of Blumhouse Step inside a new double-feature of Blumhouse horror. Your scream squad will find yourselves trapped between a frantic teen and the ruthless serial killer she’s swapped bodies with in Freaky. Then, you’ll try to make a desperate escape from the dark basement of The Grabber before you become his latest victim in the terrifying The Black Phone.

Universal has announced that The Horrors of Blumhouse featuring Freaky and The Black Phone is the newest house to be featured at this year's Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood! https://www.universalorlando.com/hhn/en/us The Horrors of Blumhouse Step inside a new double-feature of Blumhouse horror. Your scream squad will find yourselves trapped between a frantic teen and the ruthless serial killer she’s swapped bodies with in Freaky. Then, you’ll try to make a desperate escape from the dark basement of The Grabber before you become his latest victim in the terrifying The Black Phone.

Universal Orlando has announced that Universal's Great Movie Escape, two themed escape rooms inspired by Back to the Future and Jurassic World are coming to Universal CityWalk! Universal Orlando Resort will soon debut Universal’s Great Movie Escape – featuring two escape rooms. Packed with innovative storytelling and theming, the destination is inspired by Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s blockbuster films Jurassic World and Back to the Future. Concepted and designed by the same creative masterminds responsible for the wildly immersive haunts of Halloween Horror Nights, Universal’s Great Movie Escape will bring two distinct and extraordinary escape adventures to the heart of Universal CityWalk. Through interactive state-of-the-art missions, captivating storytelling and intricately detailed sets, guests will be swept into the dinosaur adventures of Jurassic World or the time-traveling chaos of Back to the Future.

After our time at Dollywood we rushed over to The Island at Pigeon Forge to experience a little more kitsch, a little more moonshine. It would be our last evening in town and the following morning we'd have just a little bit more time before we'd have to drive back to Knoxville for our flight. An anchor attraction in The Island at Pigeon Forge, SkyFly Soar America is kind of like Soarin' but focused entirely on American destinations. The experience lasts 20-30 minutes and includes several pre-shows that add to the steampunk-ish story that bookends the soaring-over-America portion of the experience. I appreciate the nods to the World's Fairs of the past. This pre-show was a clever way to pulse groups before the main show. You take a "tram" that bullets you across rails to the station where dirigible in which you'll be flying over America is found. Pardon my finger. The experience has a fun set of hosts, a father and his daughter who are your hosts for the journey. There's a classic Soarin'-style preshow... Complete with a "Nice job, pal!" nod. The experience is familiar but different to Soarin'. Unlike Soarin' where the riders are raised up into the screen, in this attraction, the platform that holds the seats rotates to a vertical position, moving the front row to the bottom portion of the screen, mid-to-mid and the third row to the top of the screen. The film itself was fine--about 6-7 minutes in length with some real footage shot with drones and some CGI elements. My main complaint is that the visuals, whether real or CGI did not seem to be made for large-scale use. This was 720p-1080p footage at best stretched onto a massive screen where inevitably, the pixels would be easily seen. It was probably relatively cheap to produce but it makes this somewhat-new attraction feel dated because it looks less clear than the 2001 film-based attraction it was inspired by did when it debuted. The majority experience is derivative for those that have been on Soarin', from the safety video to the ending where you soar over the attraction's home (in this case The Island at Pigeon Forge, poorly animated in CGI) into the sky, only to be met by CGI fireworks that actually pop in the same formation as Mickey ears. You can get a better idea of how the platform moves from this angle. I needed a drink after that experience... And as fate would have it, I could sample a bunch of Ole Smokey Tennessee Moonshine for $5 across the way. The good stuff. They had amaretto too and it was bliss! They had some small flat rides and a spinning coaster here but I didn't feel the need to bother with any of them. They have a giant ropes course here that even had two of those glider tracks that we used to see at IAAPA. A brave soul takes the plunge at the end of the ropes course! I don't often find that cities with a giant wheel merit the need or have a view that would make it worthwhile, but in this mountain setting, I think it would be worth it for some visitors. Not something we felt compelled to try but I understand the appeal. The Island at Pigeon Forge is filled with shops, experiences and restaurants and features a really nice fountain show out front. Nothing Bellagio or World of Color-level but still a nice plus in the evening. That night we went back to the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster and the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster for night rides on each. While daytime rides are fun, you need to experience these at night thanks to the unique lighting! The next morning we woke up to a beautiful day, loaded up the car and drove back to Gatlinburg for a few final stops... It had been closed due to the rain two days before, so we were intent on trying to get back to Hillbilly Mini Golf if we could before we headed home. We were among the first golfers of the day, so we took the inclined railway up... Which is a unique experience in and of itself. You arrive at the top of the incline railway where you can choose to play one of two 18 hole courses. While the holes are a little more standard from a mini golf standpoint, there are some neat added options along the courses to throw in a little more fun. To their credit though, the setting is super unique. We had a great time roaming the course and it should be noted that the employees working here were the nicest out of anyone we encountered the entire trip, and that includes at Dollywood. Feels like I have to share this. With our flight just a few hours away, we made the quick call to drive from Hillbilly Mini Golf to the Moonshine Mountain Coaster for one more run. This was the first alpine coaster we had done on our trip and the one that set us off to go ride as many as we could throughout the weekend. One more time would be appropriate. And with that it was time to head home. One last drive through the Smoky Mountain National Park. We waved farewell to one of the greatest of Pigeon Forge's attractions and saw Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride next to it. I really wrestled with whether or not we should pay the insane price to go experience Paula Deen's Lumberjack Fued, if only to try the zipline coaster. Maybe next time... But probably not. Country roads, take me home... Oh, and I might have brought a loaf of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread home with us.

Universal has announced that Halloween will be the latest house to scare guests at this year's Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood! https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/hhn/en/us Halloween Gather your friends and visit Haddonfield, Illinois, where Michael Myers is about to don his mask and embark on his first brutal spree. Silent. Merciless. Relentless. He’s the embodiment of pure evil. You don’t want to go alone as you go back to where it all began. This year, step into the original 1978 horror classic, Halloween.

Universal has announced that Halloween will be the latest house to scare guests at this year's Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood! https://www.universalorlando.com/hhn/en/us Halloween Gather your friends and visit Haddonfield, Illinois, where Michael Myers is about to don his mask and embark on his first brutal spree. Silent. Merciless. Relentless. He’s the embodiment of pure evil. You don’t want to go alone as you go back to where it all began. This year, step into the original 1978 horror classic, Halloween.

The next morning we woke up early enough to be at the gates of Dollywood about an hour before opening. This would be my first time visiting in over 13 years, so I wanted to make sure we had plenty of time to experience the additions that the park had made over the last decade-plus. Going into this trip, I decided that no matter the crowds, getting the Timesaver Unlimited would be worth it for our visit. I'd read of reliability issues with Lightning Rod and Firechaser Express, so I wanted to make sure I had the chance to ride each of them as quickly as possible in case they went down for the day (which Lightning Rod ended up doing for a portion of our day). Timesaver Unlimited plus park tickets made this a pretty expensive visit (more than I realized it would be until I really started crunching numbers), but the time we got back for not waiting in the standby queue made our day more relaxed, guaranteed re-rides on Lightning Rod (four rides total in our one day) and allowed us to leave the park a little before closing without feeling guilty so we could spend some more time in Pigeon Forge. I was definitely excited to be back after so many years! It was neat that we were also visiting during Dollywood's Flower & Food Festival. One thing I forgot about is just how many theater venues there are in this park. The entry plaza had this fun touch of whimsy overhead. There was no shortage of flowers to be found throughout the park. My main motivation for planning a day at Dollywood... I'll admit, I'd watched POVs of this coaster way more than most leading up to this trip. Lightning Rod is only my third RMC that I've been on (Steel Vengeance and Iron Gwazi being the other two) and I think each has there own unique elements. I think the launch is a nifty element (though not worth the maintenance/reliability grief it has seemingly caused) but the mountainside setting of the coaster and with the six consecutive airtime moments in the back half being a delight, these are what distinguish it. That said, the coaster definitely feels a little short (it has such available momentum when it hits the brake run), and I was surprised at how shaky/rough it was by comparison to Steel Vengeance or Iron Gwazi--I did a lot of bouncing around on the track, why caught me off guard. Overall, this is a great addition for the park but I was expecting a little more for the hype. It was a little chilly during our visit to consider water rides in our day, but I love that parks like Dollywood still maintain tradition rapids rides in their lineup. The other reason why I planned a visit to Dollywood. I destroyed this loaf of heaven in five minutes flat. Also, don't skip out on adding the Apple Butter as a side for your order. Next level pairing right there. We were able to see a knife being fashioned at one of the park's live demonstrations. Since we visited on Sunday, the chapel was in use for services, free for any guests to attend. You can see candles carved live and you can dip purchasable candles in colored wax for an added price. Dollywood is a home to several bald eagles. Always impressive to see these beautiful creatures in person. If you know, you know. I had forgotten just how kitschy wonderful ride is and I was so glad I had a chance to experience it again. Tennessee Tornado has aged like fine wine. Easily the best maintained Arrow I've been on in the last five-ten years. Pretty ridiculously smooth despite its manufacturer. I love the layout and the non-Arrow-like maneuvers (including that funky vertical loop). I hope this one is keep around for a long time to come. Seriously, this ended up being one of my favorite rides of the day. This was new to me. As was this. Firechaser Express is WAY bigger than I expected it to be. I kind of geeked out when I realized that the station has trains enter and exit from the same side. It seems so simple considering that's part of the unique nature of the coaster, but it was so cool to me to see in person. And there are plenty of angles to watch the coaster fly by from on the ground. I do wish I'd had a chance to experience Adventure Mountain, but Firechaser Express seems like a way more unique use of this space. This was neat. NOT THE BEES! As only the second B&M Wingrider I'd been on (the other being GateKeeper), I was excited to try this one. Definitely a solid coaster. Nothing crazy from a layout standpoint but the location and the views make it a worthwhile experience. Dollywood isn't missing out on the chance to have their coasters sold as CoasterDynamix Nanocoasters. Mystery Mine was one of the newer additions at the park when I last visited. I was curious to ride again having had such time pass. Mystery Mine underwent a slight adjustment in 2021 where the layout was tweaked to remove the u-turn element. The coaster ultimately links back up with its original course. I love that the old track is still there as if it was always meant to be a part of the ride's theming. This element caught me by surprise. This side of Mystery Mine is quite picturesque. The last time I was here this space was used for Timber Tower, which closed a few years later. Drop Line wasn't in operation during our visit. Thunderhead impressed me during my previous visit so I was excited to ride again. Such a clever maneuver! Thunderhead appears to have gotten some love in the offseason with some fresh wooden throughout portions of the layout. And in those sections there was a noticeable difference in the way the trains felt rolling across the track. Mystery Mine is definitely my favorite coaster to watch from the ground here. For a Sunday, the standby wait times weren't unreasonable. I nearly missed Wildwood Grove because the entrance is kind of hidden in a forked path by Mystery Mine. That said, I'm glad I was able to explore the land, because it is full of family offerings and lots of available land for future development. See what I mean? Something tells me it won't be long until we see an addition in Wildwood Grove. Something my son could enjoy on a future visit. Another option for the little ones. If we had had more time, I probably would have given these flyers are try. There's even an indoor play area for the kids. For the love of Larry. This was a surprisingly fun Vekoma family suspended coaster. The first drop is a nice surprise and some of the banking makes this more thrilling than expected. I don't consider myself to be tall, but this netting structure that you pass under to get back to the rest of Wildwood Grove from the exit of the ride requires you to play limbo to successfully get under. Not sure how this got approved... This is quite a view. Wild Eagle looms large over this corner of the park. Because the majority of Lightning Rod takes place behind mountains, trees and/or buildings, it is hard to photograph. Here's one of the few shots I have. Dollywood is home to one of Dolly Parton's original tour busses, which you are allowed to explore in small groups throughout the day. Luxury living on the road. That's how you fit a king bed onto a bus. Just outside of the bus was a "show" where "seeds" would bloom into "flowers" atop poles. It was the most artsy/abstract thing we experienced at Dollywood. They sell two pound apple pie slices at Dollywood but I couldn't dare try it... Another rare photo of Lightning Rod. More flower fun. I stumbled upon the Barnstormer without remember that it was part of the park's lineup. I love S&S Screamin' Swings and I'll never turn down a chance to ride one. Thanks to the Timesaver Unlimited (and despite the fact that the ride was operating with only one arm swinging) I only waited five minutes. "Have you found him?" If it weren't so chilly, I might have considered a ride on Daredevil Falls. I didn't ride it during my last visit either but I hope it will still be around by my next. I was amazed at how popular the park's scenic railroad attraction is... Guests were lining up as early as 45 minutes before each departure on the hour. Dollywood also features a replica of Dolly Parton's childhood Tennessee mountain home that guests can walk through. We tried one of the food options (Korean meatballs) from the Flower & Food Festival and it was solid. With our Timesaver Unlimited we were able to reserve access for a showtime of our choice of the park's "Dreamland Drive-In" show in the Pines Theater. I was pleased to see some Disney find its way outside of Florida and California parks. No photos or videos were allowed from inside of the show but this was an enjoyable jaunt through decades of music with a talented cast. This was the longest show offered in the park, so we figured if we only had a chance to see one, this would be the one to choose. One more Lightning Rod photo for good measure. The Lightning Rod model was tempting but I resisted. The mountains in the model are a neat touch though. That closed out our time at Dollywood... All that would follow would be more kitsch and fun in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!

This is both a movie I would happily pay to see and a ride I would purchase admission to experience.

Universal Studios has announced the first house coming to Halloween Horror Nights 2022! https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/hhn/en/us Universal Monsters: Legends Collide If you thought one Universal Monster was scary, how about three? Better summon your scream squad, ‘cause you’re about to get caught in the middle of an epic battle between The Wolf Man, Dracula and The Mummy, together for the first time ever. Their mission: To find the amulet that will break their curse. And they’ll destroy anyone who gets in their way.

Universal Studios has announced the first house coming to Halloween Horror Nights 2022! https://www.universalorlando.com/hhn/en/us?__source=ag.TWITTER&linkId=165522378 Universal Monsters: Legends Collide If you thought one Universal Monster was scary, how about three? Better summon your scream squad, ‘cause you’re about to get caught in the middle of an epic battle between The Wolf Man, Dracula and The Mummy, together for the first time ever. Their mission: To find the amulet that will break their curse. And they’ll destroy anyone who gets in their way.

Tokyo Disney Resort has announced the debut of Disney Premier Access for two of its most popular attractions, available starting on May 19th, 2022! http://www.olc.co.jp/en/news/news_olc/auto_20220513546228/pdfFile.pdf Tokyo Disney Resort® announced that Disney Premier Access will become available on the official Tokyo Disney Resort® App on May 19, 2022. This new digital service provides guests with the convenience of reserving certain Park attractions by using the app while at Tokyo Disneyland® and Tokyo DisneySea® Parks. By using this new service, guests will have more flexibility, be able to customize their visit, and get the most out of their Disney day. With Disney Premier Access at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, guests will have the ability to select their preferred time and make reservations to experience attractions. This service, available for a fee, will provide options for how guests experience the Parks, offering convenience and added flexibility for those who want to personalize their experience and get the most out of their visit. For the two attractions eligible for Disney Premier Access, Standby Pass is suspended starting April 25, 2022. However, guests can still experience these attractions as usual by waiting in line. The two Parks will continue to operate with the goal of creating a seamless guest experience by reducing the daily capacity to a number lower than before the outbreak of COVID-19, and by introducing innovative services that will empower our guests to enjoy the Parks their way and continue to respond to guest needs. Disney Premier Access Experiences Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast Soaring: Fantastic Flight Price 2,000 yen per access - All prices include tax. The above information is valid as of the date of this release, and is subject to change. - Please check the Tokyo Disney Resort Official Website (https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/) for information about the available date, price, etc., and instructions on the available Disney Premier Access experiences. - Depending on the circumstances and Park operating conditions, Disney Premier Access may not be available for purchase on the day of visit. Visit https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/tdl/guide/disneypremieraccess.html for more details.

After spending most of the last few years with minimal travel, the bug to get out of Orlando was itching and I set my sights on the Smoky Mountains... The last time I had been here was with TPR during the Deep South Tour in 2009. I'd kept up with the growth and development of attractions in the region during that time, especially of Dollywood which had nearly doubled in size since my prior visit, so I knew this could be an option to enjoy a long weekend. Our first day was focused on some of the nature, kitsch and touristy elements of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, saving Dollywood for our second full day. Why goats? Well Goats on the Roof was our first stop of the day... Due to a storm the night before, the alpine coaster here wasn't up and running but we'd be back later in the trip to give this one a go. On the drive to Gatlinburg from Pigeon Forge we witnessed the Shrine Fun Fest Parade under way on the main stretch. Next up was a ride to the peak of Anakeesta Mountaintop Park. This "adventure park" is not unlike a ski resort with shops, dining and activities, minus the skiing. It is a more modern buildout which definitely made it feel more comfortable/inviting and less "kitschy mountaintop attraction." They have an alpine coaster here (the region's only single rail alpine coaster) but unfortunately it was closed due to rain and fog during our visit. It is important to note that general admission to Anakeesta is required to ride the Rail Runner, plus an added cost to experience the coaster. Had this not been the case, we would have happily returned on a different day of our trip just to ride the coaster. Plenty of great views to enjoy here! They've done a really nice job dressing up the facilities to fit into the mountain setting. The path to the top of Anakeesta is certainly picturesque! Postcard worthy. AnaVista Tower is downtown Gatlinburg's highest point accessible to visitors. And the views of the Anakeesta complex it delivers are great! Tell me more. You can see Ripley's Mountain Coaster (formerly Rowdy Bear) in the distance. The Glider Coaster sits above it but is not currently operational. There are glass flooring sections at the top of the AnaVista Tower for those that like the thrill of having transparent flooring beneath them at heights. I was honestly very impressed with the design, landscaping and overall feel of Anakeesta. Time for a BearVenture! I definitely wasn't going to trip and fall on my face in an embarrassing fashion here. Definitely not. Not sure what to make of this but here it is. There are some fun treehouses for the kids to explore. No dancing on your toes here. The Treetop Skywalk ended up being our favorite activity at Anakeesta and it is included in your base admission price. You can go through it as many times as you'd like! It's like I'm in the Ewok Village on the forest moon of Endor!!! Seriously fun stuff here! In both directions you can take the "Chondola" to/from the mountaintop or you can ride the "Ridge Rambler" which is an all-terrain vehicle that takes you on a scenic road trip up/down the side of the mountain. This Rowdy Bear location recently became Ripley's Mountain Coaster. This is the shortest of the mountain coasters in the region (approximately 5 minutes long). Unfortunately the pricing options were a little unreasonable with only two rides per person for $25 or three rides per person for $29 available (no single ride options available per person). By comparison, Goats on the Roof was offering single rides for $10 and several others were between $12-$15 per ride (with coupons available to bring down that price). For this reason we passed on this experience. I was hoping to get to ride the Glider Coaster during this trip but it wasn't open and it isn't even referenced online or in the ticket office. Over in Downtown Gatlinburg I couldn't visit without experiencing Earthquake The Ride. Having grown up with the attraction at Universal Studios Florida, this piqued my curiosity. The entry to the attraction is decently themed and there are people in line already! (Spoiler: they're not real people, they're mannequins, which is a common trick at all of these knock-off attractions.) I'll give credit in that the ride entrance is cleverly themed. Sitting down in the "train" my life choices already seemed questionable. Also these seats tilt in all kinds of wonky directions as you move (back and forth) through the experience. The ride starts with another train coming at you from the subway... Which makes sense. The ceiling collapses from the earthquake, which also makes sense... But random other things like an attacking gator start to happen around you which... Makes less sense. Don't mind the angry gorilla trying to escape his crate in the subway station during the earthquake. It all makes sense. There's a couch (with a man sleeping on it) and a locker room in the subway station because that is exactly how subway stations are in San Francisco. It makes sense. Angry gorillas often break out of their cages that they were being transported in on the San Francisco metro... Authentic and makes sense. A flood of rats pour from the fallen ceiling... Totally logical and a great way to end our authentic, realistic, true-to-nature journey on Earthquake The Ride. We rewarded ourselves for surviving that realistic catastrophe with edible cookie dough. Also wine. The Moonshine Mountain Coaster ended up being our first alpine coaster of the trip. No photos allowed while riding but this one has a fun layout and solid speed (if you don't brake). The icing on the cake is that Mario Kart music starts to play right as you exit the lift hill to start down the track! We ended up riding this one twice during our weekend. We decided to visit the DreamMore Resort at Dollywood to explore the grounds and grab some lunch. The property is well designed with some solid resort amenities. Definitely going for a moderate-to-deluxe style feel when compared to the higher end properties at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. Lunch was good and solid in The Lounge at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort. Dollywood's HeartSong Lodge & Resort is being constructed right by DreamMore and will open in the Fall of 2023. The Alpine Coaster Pigeon Forge was another great alpine coaster! We ended up riding this one twice as well. The layout is fantastic in that it has lots of turns, dips and helices! Plus night rides are awesome on this one! Back at Goats on the Roof... Goats on the Roof has the fastest alpine coaster in the region. I love the lift hill the brings the karts over the entrance to the parking lot. You can feet goats on the roof by pedaling food up to them on a conveyor bike. It worked. Baby goat! You can also buy goat feed from inside the shop for a more up-close goat experience. The real reason I came to Pigeon Forge. I love the trick of putting mannequins at the entrance of these knock offs to make it feel like people are going in. "Time... The ever flowing river..." The technology inside is astounding. Some of the dinos are actually pretty realistic... Others, not so much. My favorite part of the entire experience is a kid getting picked up by a Pteranodon and flown away. Meet this dino's biggest fan. I feel like I'm really there. Feaster's on Teaster's biblical dinner theater was definitely tempting... I saw it and kept moving on... Like anyone should. What happened to the other half of the ship? Could they only pick up one half from the ocean floor? I strongly debated trying Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud (I'm ashamed typing that sentence) but the ticket price and the fact that all I really cared about was the zipline coaster deterred me from biting on the rough $40 per person price of admission. We ended our night at the Mountain Mile... Unfortunately all three of the thrill complex's attractions were closed. There's a drop tower... There's also a slingshot on this side and a more traditional skycoaster style experience (though seated instead of face down) that swings from the arch opposite side. Given that I couldn't experience any of these thrills for the evening, we pivoted to moonshine tastings at the Junction 35 Distillery in the same complex.

Drayton Manor has unveiled their new brand identity to reflect the resort's future plans and family focus. https://www.draytonmanor.co.uk/news-detail/drayton-manor-unveils-new-brand-identity With new Managing Director, Victoria Lynn, at the helm, Drayton Manor Resort has unveiled a new look for its much-loved brand, with a vibrant transformation that reflects ambitious future plans and a new era for the family destination. Bringing together its shared vision to be the place for fun and excitement through immersive experiences that can be enjoyed by all, the resort has revealed a brand-new logo alongside reimagined values that demonstrate the evolution of the resort and its offering. The new logo mirrors the resort’s commitment to bring everyone together for unforgettable experiences that start and end with fun, while remaining true to the company’s original colours, but at the same time adding the extra ingredient of being ‘perfectly imperfect’ to convey movement and motion. Its reimagined values demonstrate the culture and redefined purpose of the brand, and include the importance of being warm-hearted, inclusive, and authentic in approach, while ensuring a vibrant and energetic environment where everyone can connect and thrive. Sustainability and conservation efforts are also intrinsic to the values, and the resort has pledged to respect the natural environment, consciously working towards reducing waste, increasing energy efficiency, protecting green spaces, and promoting animal conservation. The resort, which attracts 1 million visitors each year and is home to over 100 rides and attractions, Europe’s only Thomas Land, a 15-acre conservation zoo and four-star hotel, is fast-expanding its offering with the opening of its highly anticipated Vikings-themed area set for this Spring. With new rides and attractions that will appeal to family thrill seekers of all ages, alongside themed rooms at the Drayton Manor Hotel, Vikings has sent the UK into a flurry of excitement since its announcement and follows the success of the nautical-themed zone, Adventure Cove, which opened last summer. The new logo and brand values signal a marked change in direction for the future of the resort, as it continues to expand its offering to cater to the family thrill market and provide unforgettable immersive experiences for guests of all ages. The resort was formerly family-run and managed over a 70-year period until it was purchased by the Looping Group in 2020, a European company operating 16 leisure parks across the UK, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, and Portugal. New Managing Director, Victoria Lynn, who joined the team in April with over 22 years’ industry experience spanning world class attractions within the UAE, will be instrumental in delivering Looping Group’s vision for the future of the resort, as it continues to reinvest in improving its offering, affirming its position as one of the leading leisure destinations in the UK. Victoria said: “The future of Drayton Manor Resort is certainly bright, and I am delighted to be joining such an incredibly talented team at a pivotal time of growth and positive change for the brand, while ensuring they continue to feel inspired and motivated to deliver the best possible experiences for guests. “The relaunch of the brand has been in the works for a long time, and so much thought, care and meticulous planning has gone into creating our new logo and values, which really bring to life who we are and why we exist, alongside solidifying our core principles and attitudes towards the care of our guests, and the sustainability of our business operations. “It also frames the future direction of the resort perfectly, with a shift in focus over the coming years to capture a more diverse family thrill audience, with new rides, attractions and immersive experiences that cater to guests of all ages. “I look forward to working closely with the team to continue driving growth and development of an already exceptional family destination, with a shared vision of creating unforgettable memories to be shared and relived.”

EXACTLY what I’m hoping for.

The Disneyland Resort has shared a ton of news regarding the resort hotels and Downtown Disney including a reimagined Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, new resort benefits and new venues coming to Downtown Disney! https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2022/04/news-from-the-disneyland-resort-upcoming-pixar-plans-big-foodie-news-and-more/ Yesterday, Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock met with community leaders about upcoming plans for magical new experiences coming to the Disneyland Resort, and we wanted to bring you in on the fun! Here’s a peek behind the curtain of what’s on the horizon for our guests, starting with some news from the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort! Hotels of the Disneyland Resort News Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will soon begin a transformation, with an all-new theme! The reimagining of the hotel will weave the artistry of Pixar into its comfortable, contemporary setting. Guests will gain a new perspective on some of their favorite Pixar worlds and characters through carefully curated artwork, and décor that reveals the creative journey of the artists who helped bring these stories to life. Guests will be welcomed into whimsical character moments, like the iconic, playful Pixar Lamp balancing atop its ball in the lobby (as pictured in this artist concept rendering). Stay tuned, as we will share much more about this project soon! Not only do we have new and reimagined experiences coming for hotel guests, but more benefits as well! Beginning later this summer, guests staying at one of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will be able to enjoy several new and returning uniquely Disney benefits to staying with us on property. As you may know, our guests already enjoy access to Disney California Adventure park directly through Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa entrance, and convenient Monorail access for Disneyland Hotel guests. Today, we’re excited to share that a walkway is currently under construction which will soon give Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel guests a convenient entrance to Disney California Adventure park! Guests can also look forward to “Hey Disney!” – a new kind of voice assistant which works alongside Alexa on Amazon Echo devices in Disneyland Resort hotel rooms that can make your stay more convenient, engaging, and enjoyable – later this year. Later this summer, guests of the Disneyland Resort hotels can look forward to the ability to send select theme park purchases back to their resort hotel. Last but certainly not least, we’re getting ready to offer early entry access, where guests staying at one of our Disneyland Resort hotels can be among the first to enter and begin enjoying select theme park attractions and experiences beginning later this summer. Downtown Disney District News We also are happy to share another new look at the exciting shopping and dining coming to the west side of the Downtown Disney District. While the evolution of Downtown Disney began in 2018, we recently began work on the latest transformation to introduce more innovative shopping, dining and entertainment experiences. Drawing inspiration from Southern California mid-century modern architecture, the west-end area will be a beautiful blend of vibrant color palettes, design elements and patterns influenced by the region, and will include an open lawn for relaxation and future events, and an even broader and diverse collection of dining and shopping. We are investing significantly in Downtown Disney District to continue growing a dynamic, exciting destination with something for everyone. We also are intentionally diversifying our offerings to meet the needs of today’s guests, and have an exciting example of that to share with you today. The world-renowned restaurant Din Tai Fung will join the district to offer guests their soup dumplings hand crafted right on site! This family-run restaurant will bring flavorful Chinese cuisine to Downtown Disney, where guests can enjoy dishes served family style in a creative space near our new lawn pavilion. Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytan will bring his inclusive vision of Mexican cuisine to Paseo and Centrico in the locations currently occupied by Catal & Uva Bar, brought to life by Patina Restaurant Group. The restaurant and central courtyard bar and dining area will offer guests a multi-sensory journey to the heart of Chef Gaytan’s homeland. We are also working with Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen to finalize an evolution that incorporates vibrant California energy and a fresh approach to the menu, while staying true to the heart of New Orleans for this guest-favorite location. Even more exciting news – fan favorite Earl of Sandwich will also pop into the district in a special sandwich walk-up location, offering guests the classics they know and love for a limited time beginning later this year. Mickey’s Toontown News As we shared previously, Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland park is undergoing a reimagining of its own, and will debut with new experiences and more play for guests, with a focus on families and young children, in early 2023. Today we are sharing a photo of our teams breaking ground on the land, coming together to celebrate this milestone and the work underway to bring this transformation to life. We can’t wait to debut all of these offerings – and more – coming to the Disneyland Resort!

The Oriental Land Co. officially announced a major update to Space Mountain and that attraction's side of Tomorrowland at Tokyo Disneyland. The original attraction will close in 2024 before being totally rebuilt as a new iteration of Space Mountain which will open in 2027. http://www.olc.co.jp/en/news/news_olc/auto_20220427529850/pdfFile.pdf Oriental Land Co., Ltd. announced today that Space Mountain and its surrounding area in Tomorrowland at Tokyo Disneyland® Park will undergo a major renovation. This newly developed plaza will create a reimagined area of Tomorrowland and is expected to open in 2027. Space Mountain, an exhilarating, indoor roller coaster that takes guests on a high-speed joy ride through space, has been a favorite of guests since the Grand Opening of Tokyo Disneyland in 1983. This entirely new attraction will maintain its original concept as an indoor roller coaster, but will have enhanced performance and immersive special effects that will give guests even more thrills on this exciting rocket ride. The new Tomorrowland plaza will express the connection between Earth and the universe, representing an image of a future where humans are in harmony with nature. Guests will be able to enjoy moments of rest and relaxation in this plaza where various icons and other design elements create a sense of hope for the future. After dark, the area will draw guests into a spectacular world of light and soundscapes. Guests can look forward to the excitement at the new Space Mountain and the plaza at Tomorrowland. Notes: - In conjunction with this project, the current Space Mountain attraction will close in 2024. - Space Mountain is presented by Coca-Cola (Japan) Company, Ltd. Notes: With this project, the current "Space Mountain" will be closed in 2024. "Space Mountain" is provided by Coca-Cola Japan Co., Ltd. Attraction Overview Opening Date: 2027 Investment Amount: About 56 billion JPY (projected), including cost of new facilities in the surrounding area

^Signs out front of the Cheetah Hunt area entrance advise of a Summer 2022 reopening.

Disneyland Paris has announced that the Disney Village will undergo a multi-year transformation that will enhance the space with new dining options as well as updated shopping and entertainment experiences. https://disneylandparis-news.com/en/disneyland-paris-announces-a-multi-year-transformation-plan-for-disney-village/ In the midst of the 30th Anniversary at Disneyland Paris, the resort-wide transformation continues! Along with the Walt Disney Studios Park expansion plan and the Disneyland Hotel royal transformation, Disney Village will see its own transformation over several years including new dining options and refreshed shopping and entertainment offerings. Disneyland Paris is sharing a first look at what to expect in the future for this 428,000-square-foot complex. A multi-year transformation plan for an enhanced Disney Village experience Located at the heart of Disneyland Paris, Disney Village is the retail, dining and entertainment complex between the theme parks and Disney hotels. The district, which celebrates 30 years in 2022, has more than doubled in size since its opening, constantly adding new options to reinvent the guest experience. By the end of the year, a phased transformation of the entire area will begin to give the district a brand-new visual identity and introduce exciting new offerings into the mix. By combining the best Disney know-how with select complementary brand concepts, the reimagined Disney Village will celebrate timeless, family-friendly environments that are uniquely Disney. By day, stylish boutiques and innovative restaurants will draw guests in, and by night, thousands of lights will transform the area into a bustling wonderland. When the transformation is complete, Disney Village will feature a relaxing lakeside park and boardwalk, enhanced pedestrian walkways, brand-new facades, relaxing terraces and patios, and lush landscaping. Its diverse eateries and collection of shops will expand dining and retail options for guests with innovative concepts from some of the world’s most exciting brands for a completely enhanced experience complementing the theme parks. “Our plan to transform Disney Village is yet another example of how we continue to reimagine Disneyland Paris at the resort level, notably with our major expansion plan in progress at Walt Disney Studios Park,” said Natacha Rafalski, Présidente of Disneyland Paris. “We’re very excited to bring new iconic and timeless concepts to the district that will appeal to a new generation of guests, whether they visit from our nearby resort hotels or from the local area. We can’t wait for our guests to be surprised and delighted by what we have in store.” Rosalie, a new lakeside French brasserie to open in 2023 The first step in the transformation plan will be a contemporary French brasserie in place of the current Café Mickey restaurant. Groupe Bertrand, with its portfolio of renowned Parisian brasseries, has been chosen to take over the location and bring in a fresh new concept that will both elevate the culinary experience and expand dining options for guests looking for French flavors in Disney Village.  Rosalie, the new two-floor restaurant will feature 500 seats in contemporary interiors. Inspired by Parisian brasseries, it will celebrate renowned French “Art de Vivre” and classic cuisine in a modern yet elegant setting, with expanded terraces looking over Lake Disney. Honoring both regional diversity and product seasonality, the restaurant will cater to all cravings. In addition to table service, a counter will offer French bakery-inspired options for take away like viennoiseries, pastries, sandwiches and salads, as well as a selection of products satisfying every taste and level of service. Seasonally, an outdoor terrace will welcome guests on the lake’s edge. “As we continue to collaborate with exceptional brands that we share strong values with, we are delighted to welcome a new restaurant managed by Groupe Bertrand as a first step in our Disney Village transformation plan,” said Laure Albouy, Vice President Business Strategy & Integration, Disneyland Paris. “We believe this unique, family-friendly restaurant will elevate the guest experience at our resort by offering famous French specialties in a unique setting, and we can’t wait to make this new partnership a reality.” Stay tuned for future updates about this highly-anticipated restaurant opening and other construction milestones coming to Disney Village.

We started our next day at Disney California Adventure, with a focus on revisiting old favorites and experiencing more of the new and seasonal offerings in the park. We weren't the only ones with this idea. I love Buena Vista Street and seeing it for the holidays was no less special. Cars Land during the holidays is even more charming. I love this so much! Don't mind if I do! A personal favorite landmark of mine in Cars Land. This attraction will never cease to amaze me. I've only been able to experience Ramone's side of Radiator Springs Racers a few times. "...And quattro to go!" We didn't win this time. I marvel at the fact that this was built stateside. My second ride for the morning yielded a pit stop at Luigi's. We won this time! The entrance to Avengers Campus from Cars Land is neat in that it features a more antiquated space from the form SSR base on the grounds. Looking forward to the attraction announced at the D23 Expo a few years ago opening here in the future. The Kirby Krackle is real! I'll never turn down a chance to experience Guardians of the Galaxy Mission: Breakout! I love this preshow (and attraction) so much! Shawarma Palace for breakfast! Ant-Man was among the many heroes we saw in Avengers Campus on this day. I met Phastos from The Eternals! Very cool. The world is upside down. I really like what was done to the tunnels when California Screamin' was transformed into the Incredicoaster. We always try our hand at the Games of the Boardwalk at Pixar Pier. This time, the tokens were familiar because they were from the former Mad T Party that used to be hosted in Hollywoodland. This photo does a good job of giving the impression that I actually nailed this shot. I'll let you decide if I did. Captain America (Steve Rogers), Taskmaster and Black Widow battling atop the Avengers headquarters... Time for lunch at Pym's Test Kitchen! I love this tap handles! To give you idea of the different presentations of food here... I was so ridiculously excited to try Pingo Doce and I was by no means disappointed. I wasn't going to pass up a chance to try this Buffalo Chicken Loaded Pretzel! I knew I had to try the Celestial-sized Candy Bar, Choco-Smash. This thing is intense and contains Dark Chocolate, Peanuts, Caramel, Nougat and Chocolate Brownie. I struggled to finish it but it was so good! I love the holiday cavalcades they had running through the park during the day for the Festival of the Holidays. So glad I finally had a chance to experience Cars Land for the holidays! The seasonal overlays for Mater's Junkyard Jamboree and Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters were both great! The Wasp was at Avengers Campus too! Roz was in the holiday spirit. The Super Store Featuring Avengers Campus was a fun extra option for Marvel-inspired merchandise. Hi Elissa! Still one of my favorite spaces in any Disney park stateside. Grizzly Peak is always fun to walk around, but it is especially plussed for the holidays. One of my favorite views in the entire resort. I love that the Country Bears still have a presence at the Disneyland Resort despite the show being closed decades ago. Nick and Judy from Zootopia! We really enjoyed the performance by "Mostly Kosher" at the Sonoma Terrace. It was especially fun for us to hear traditional Jewish tunes (presented in a far more modern, accessible format) for the holidays. We both wished we had found them earlier in the trip so we could have come back for a second performance! Quite a delicious Gingerbread Mickey Mouse Cookie to be had. It didn't make it home to Orlando. Evening begins to fall on Avengers Campus... Cool! As the sun began to set, even more Marvel characters began to arrive at Avengers Campus...

Europa Park has released a ton of new details about their upcoming season as well as changes across the resort, including most notably, the addition of a brand new roller coaster in a new Croatia-themed area of the park! You can learn more about this new coaster by viewing a new documentary here: https://www.veejoy.de/en https://corporate.europapark.com/en/presse/nachricht/datum/2022/03/18/grenzenloser-spass-in-deutschlands-groesstem-freizeitpark/ In Europa-Park, visitors travel through 15 European themed areas in just one day, experiencing traditional architecture and cuisine. At over 100 attractions, holidaymakers of all ages can feel the wind on their faces and simply recharge their batteries. In the 2022 season, there are plenty of new highlights to discover at Germany's largest theme park, especially in the Austrian themed area. In Rust, it’s also possible to get out of the southern Baden sun and into a Nordic themed world. Located in the immediate vicinity of Europa-Park, the whole family can look forward to swimming and sliding fun at the Rulantica water world. Young visitors in particular will be excited, as this season there are some new surprises to discover. Those who love travelling can not only experience adventures in Rulantica, they also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in virtual worlds at the virtual reality sensation YULLBE. Imperial fun The Austrian themed area is changing in the new season, as the empire makes its entrance. During a ride on the lake, guests can marvel at the beauties of Austria and magnificent garden art. The conversion of the Jungle Rafts ride with the new theme of ‘Josefina's Magical Imperial Journey’ will take place in several stages until 2023. From the start of the 2022 season, the romantic boat ride will be open to the whole family, with new innovations to be discovered. Over several phases, the train station and the boats are being reworked to shine with a new majestic splendour. In ‘Josefina's Magical Imperial Journey’, guests enjoy a themed ride across an idyllic lake and through a magnificent palace garden. Accompanied by beautiful waltz music composed by T-Rex Classics, the route leads past impressive water features and a secret garden, as well as through a romantic rose arch. Visitors pass through different stages of Empress Josefina's life: from the wild, nature-loving childhood to her life as Empress - princesses and princes of all sizes will not be disappointed. A visual highlight is the fountain show 'Vienna Water Waltz', where visitors can experience an exciting interplay of water, light and music. 54 fountains up to 40 metres high make for a gigantic show. The ‘Danube Steamer' attraction will also shine with a brand new look in the 2022 season. Since last summer, the lovable grandma of dinosaurs Madame Freudenreich has also inspired visitors. Alongside her friendly dinosaurs, visitors can experience a fast-paced soapbox race over hill and dale in 'Madame Freudenreich Dino Race VR’ - the VR experience on the 'Alpenexpress Coastiality'. In the 2022 season, visitors can also experience the action-packed story to the new YULLBE PRO Experience ‘Amber Blake: Operation Dragonfly’ in ‘Amber Blake - The Chase’ on the ‘Alpenexpress Coastiality’. Starting this summer, they will be able to immerse themselves in a 30-minute interactive spy film at the independent VR attraction YULLBE, located between hotel ‘Krønasår’ and the Rulantica water world. From spring, visitors will also have the opportunity to experience the detailed landscape of Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg with the YULLBE PRO adventure 'Miniatur Wunderland - The Crazy Shrink Tour' or the YULLBE GO experience 'Miniatur Wunderland - Walking in Wonderland'. There are plenty of other highlights for all ages to discover in the 15 European themed areas of Europa-Park. In Holland, visitors can follow in the footsteps of pirates and privateers on a boat ride with the brave 'Pirates in Batavia'. At the new 'granini Saft Butikk' in the Scandinavian themed area, juices, cool spritzers or delicious cocktails provide fruity refreshment. In addition, 13 rollercoasters guarantee thrilling speeds through the rugged rocky landscapes of Iceland or the world of the Greek god of water, Poseidon. In the Magic Cinema 4D, guests can watch the Wünschmann family's next adventure on a new screen using the latest projector technology with the short film 'Happy Family Next Level 4D'. Right next to the cinema, the bistro La Cigale was renamed Bistro Tomi Ungerer last year in memory of the great Alsatian artist. The hearts of SC Freiburg fans are sure to beat faster at the newly decorated 'Arena of Football' - where a small VIP box, props from SC Freiburg, a photo point and exciting insights into the Europa-Park Stadium await the guests. Stylish sportswear can be found in the 'TOGETHER.FASTER. Sports Store' with new cooperation partner PUMA, where they even have their own Europa-Park collection. Summery shows Visitors to Germany's largest theme park can look forward to numerous event highlights with artists, dancers, musicians and singers again this year. Europa-Park offers the highest level of live entertainment for a total of 23 hours a day. During the daily 'Ed's Adventure Parade', a new pirate fortress makes its way through the park as visitors find themselves captivated by the gripping music and spectacular costumes. In the Spanish Arena, visitors of all ages can expect breathtaking horse acrobatics with the show 'The Return of the Sultan', presented by the stunt troupe of the famous horse trainer Mario Luraschi. Pure joie de vivre can be found at 'The Show must go on' in the Europa-Park Teatro, celebrated with world-class acrobatics. Magic lovers will find what they are looking for in the English themed area, where Timothy Trust & Diamond create illusions with 'Abraka...Shakespeare! RELOADED'. In the Greek themed area, Europa-Park’s star figure skaters celebrate the birth of the legendary Adventure Club of Europe in a fast-paced show with magical effects, glamorous costumes and gripping music at 'ACE - The adventure begins!'. A special highlight awaits viewers of the popular show ‘Immer wieder sonntags’, as this TV show will soon have a new arena right next to Rulantica, from where the programs will be broadcast live to viewers' living rooms from 12th June 2022. The ultimate water fun for the whole family During a short holiday in the warmest region of Germany, a visit to the Rulantica water world is a must. Since last season, swimming and bathing fans can look forward to the Nordic Outdoor World of Slides. From May to September, ten slides – including a wave slide and a funnel slide – await brave explorers in 'Svalgurok'. A stay in the water world is also a great experience for families with small children, as right next to ‘Svalgurok’, the littlest of guests can also cool off and have fun during the warm season while their parents relax comfortably on one of the over 1000 loungers in the outdoor area. This year, 'Snorri Strand' offers even more water fun, as three new child-friendly slides promise additional action for the little ones at 'Snorri's Rutscheplads. At 'Snorri's Spelaborg' a fortress made of crates and all kinds of flotsam will get imaginations flaring. After splashing around, visitors of all ages can enjoy a break from the swimming at 'Snorri's Piknikbud' with delicious sandwiches, fruit cups and refreshing drinks. From spring, it will also be possible to enjoy that holiday feeling at the Nordic sandy beach 'Dynstrønd', the new location for summer fun and relaxing sunbathing. Numerous sun loungers, six beach chairs, stylish hanging baskets, a sand playground for children and a beach volleyball court leave absolutely nothing to be desired. From time to time, musical and artistic surprises also await guests on the open-air stage. A variety of slides can also be found in the indoor area: The 'Isbrekker' jump slide first goes down a steep drop, leading into a free fall from a height of 1.30 metres that plunges into the water pool. In the 'Vinter Rytt’, the steep slide wall rises up almost vertically, and the 'Svalgur Rytt' rafting slide features plenty of curves, where up to four people aged 10 and over can slide together in one tyre. At 'Snorri Snorkling VR', visitors put on VR diving goggles and embark on a fantastic adventure deep under the sea surface with the lively Sixtopus Snorri. This virtual underwater tour is unique worldwide and was specially developed by MackNeXT and VR Coaster. Adults can then relax in the exclusive Hyggedal relaxation and sauna area. The wellness oasis has a Nordic ambience and is located above the 'Lumålunda' restaurant, offering a fantastic view of the entire water world. On 1,000m², comfortable loungers, three nude wooden saunas and a large outdoor terrace await guests aged 18 and over. Last winter, the new 'KOTA Sauna Chalet' also made its appearance. There, guests can enjoy a proper sauna surrounded by rustic tables and seating, as well as a sauna oven, while enjoying a delicious wheat beer - with or without alcohol. Both 'Snorri Snorkling VR' and 'Hyggedal' are additional offers that can be booked online in addition to the day ticket. Heavenly nights at the Europa-Park Resort If your feet are tired from a day of exploring the Resort, the six Europa-Park hotels and the rustic Camp Resort offer ideal relaxation. Whether it’s the lonely fjords in the far north or a dream of Mediterranean nights for you, the park's own 4* and 4* superior themed hotels enchant guests with their lovingly-designed theming and an excellent authentic cuisine. Generous wellness and spa areas provide the perfect way to round off your stay. From the summer, guests of Hotel Krønasår can book one of 11 suites, each with a steam bath or sauna. The new 160 m² infinity pool will also ensure a relaxing time together with loved ones. Days at Europa-Park and Rulantica are guaranteed to be a unique short holiday for the whole family.

Alright… Now that the rumor has been debunked, let’s move away from talking about rumor sites and keep the conversations on this thread focused on Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and all things related.

^I think it depends on what you’re looking for… Are you looking for rumors that may or may not be true or are you looking to only see the real stuff when it is confirmed. If it is the latter, you could just keep coming here where we post legitimate news as it is released.

And we’re moving on…