Disney Sisters: July 2015

15 Ways To Have the #CoolestSummer Ever at Walt Disney World Resort

Important announcement: Summertime is still in full effect people! Please don't let the back-to-school commercials on TV every 5 seconds change your mind. Do not allow all of (dare we even mention) the Halloween merchandise showing up in stores rush you through the last month of your summer vacation. Some of our kids don't even go back to school until after Labor Day this year, which means there is still plenty of time to enjoy 6 weeks more of fun in the sun! If you are heading to the Walt Disney Resort this August there is so many cool things to see and do!

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

We've recently shared with you the 15 Coolest Things to do at Disneyland Resort this summer and now we are happy to tell you 15 ways to have the "Coolest Summer Ever" while at the Walt Disney World Resort! With so much exciting new entertainment, dining and shopping experiences to try there's something for everyone in your family and the magic goes on all summer long. Whether you are a thrill seeker, a shopper, a Frozen fan, an explorer or all of the above you won't be disappointed!



1. Walt Disney World Resort Pools
Care for a dip? There are so many amazing Walt Disney World Resorts and each come with their own incredible themed pools. Don't forget to take full advenatge of them while you are on holiday at Walt Disney World. Our family trip tip is to hit the parks in the morning, take a break back at the Hotel for swimming in the afternoon, and finally head back to the Parks in the evening to catch a show and beat the crowds. Some of our favorite pools are at the Art of Animation (pictured), the Contemporary, and the Yacht Club/Beach Club Resorts. Which are your favorites?

2. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
Heigh-ho, heigh-ho it's off to the mine train we go. One of the newer attractions to join the Magic Kingdom Park, part dark ride and part swaying coaster this enchanting train ride will soon become one of your family favorites. You can whistle while you work wait in line to see Snow White and your favorite dwarfs!  If Big Thunder Mountain is the wildest ride in the wilderness, then this ride is the wildest ride in New Fantasyland. Now boarding and bringing smiles to all ages!

3. Dole Whip
The unofficial Disney treat of summer. If you haven't experienced a Dole Whip at a Disney Park, there's no better time than during the hot summer months. This non-dairy pineapple, soft serve dessert is sold at multiple spots in Walt Disney World and there's pretty much always a line for this frozen delight. Variations of the Dole Whip cup also include the Dole Whip float, Dole Whip twist cup and for adults you may even want to get yours with spiced rum. (select locations) If it's not already, it will be your new Disney Parks summertime favorite.

4. Disney Water Parks
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
Sunny ‘ski’ slopes and palm tree-lined lazy rivers await guests this summer at Disney’s Water Parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. We loves us some lazy river action! Sometimes during the steamy, humid summer months in Florida you may want to get away from the hot theme parks and have a wet and wild time. The only hard choice to make is Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach. Trust us, you'll come out a winner no matter which park you choose!

5. Anna and Elsa Meet and Greet
When they’re not visiting Hollywoodland, Anna and Elsa from “Frozen” meet and greet with guests daily at Princess Fairytale Hall in Magic Kingdom Park. The royal sisters also appear during the daily Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade, and guests can enjoy visuals from “Frozen” during the “Celebrate the Magic” projection show that transforms Cinderella Castle each evening. Leave it to these Frozen sisters to cool off everyone's summer! Be sure to check out our ultimate Frozen Summer Fun Guide to Walt Disney World.

6. La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
We can't think of a more perfect match then pairing a Cirque show in the middle of Walt Disney World Resort. 'La Nouba' (in french "The Party") cast of over 70 international performers including singers, trapeze artists, jugglers, clowns, bikers, and many more incredible acts. Outrageous costumes, incredible sets, brilliant choreography, dramatic lighting and live music turn the ordinary into the extraordinary at the Cirque du Soleil production, La Nouba. Guests can see this theatrical french circus of strength and beauty in Le Theatre at Downtown Disney. Click to buy your tickets online.

7. Harambe Market
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
New dining and entertainment offerings welcome Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park guests this summer as the theme park continues to undergo the largest expansion in its history. (AVATAR-inspired land coming early soon!) Africa Marketplace, a new shopping and dining option for park- goers in Harambe, the village anchoring the Africa section of the park, which recently opened. One highlight of the new space will be Harambe Marketplace, a new quick-service food and beverage location offering street-inspired dishes from walk-up windows. The new space also will open up a new pathway from Africa to Bradley Falls and the Asia section of the park.

8. Take A Ride on an Amphicar
If crusing down the river in a unique boat is your idea of summer fun, you won't want to miss out on the amphicars, waterfront adventures offered at The BOATHOUSE restaurant. Bon voyage as the Captain drives your car boat off the Amphicar Launch right into the waters of Lake Buena Vista. Make a splash in Orlando & embark on this 20-minute tour of the landmarks of Downtown Disney aka the home of the new Disney Springs. This may be the coolest thing you can do at the Walt Disney World Resort this summer! We also recommend eating at The BOATHOUSE: Great Food, Waterfront Dining, Dream Boats, is a new upscale, experience in the heart of Downtown Disney with a gourmet menu featuring steaks, chops, fresh seafood and a raw bar. Summer waterfront dining at's it best whether you're a sailor or just a seafood lover. We highly recommend saving room for the Gibsons S'mores Baked Alaska for dessert. To. Die. For.

9. "Frozen" Summer Fun Live
The fun heats up when “Frozen” Summer Fun LIVE all summer long at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park. Guest favorites Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf take part in a multitude of 'Cool' activities. From the Frozen Royal Welcome, to A "Frozen" Sing-A-Long Celebration, from Olaf's Summer Cool Down to Coolest Summer Ever" Dance Party. There's plenty of Frozen magic to excite the biggest Frozen fans and chill out even the hottest summer. Check out our Frozen Summer Guide to Frozen Fun.

10. Splash Mountain
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
Prepare to get soaked in the ultimate log ride with the classic characters Br'er rabbit, Br'er bear and Br'er fox. Everybody's got a laughing place and your family will probably find theirs while getting splashed at the bottom of the 5 story drop in Frontierland! You'll have a zippidi doo dah day if you ride this wet attraction at Magic Kingdom Park sure to cool you off on the hottest of summer days. Our tip: the closer you are to the front of the log, the more you get wet in this whimsical watering hole.

11. Shopping at Downtown Disney
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
If you're a fan of shopping while on vacation for the best souvenirs, (and who isn't) then you may want to carve out sometime of your trip at Downtown Disney. If you didn't know, DTD is currently undergoing a magical makeover into Disney Springs, an exciting new waterfront district for shopping, dining and entertainment. Guests can find hot summer fashion trends and cool new waterfront dining. New retail stores include Sanuk, APEX by Sunglass Hut, Havaianas, Erin McKenna Bakery NYC and more, as well as new dining experiences such as The BOATHOUSE (now open) and Morimoto Asia (opening fall 2015). Disney Springs will be completed in 2016. Sounds cool to us!

12. Kali River Rapids
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
The fastest way to cool down at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park has got to be while on a whitewater adventure along the scenic Chakranadi River. Wet and wild is the theme of this fantastic journey as you make your way onto this large, circular 12-passenger raft, just perfect for your entire family! Strap yourself in, hide your cell phones, and beware of erupting geysers as you begin your bumpy voyage down the mountain. You may want to bring a change of clothes because there won't be a dry spot on you. Our family has had to wring out our socks on a number of occasions. Nobody escapes the Rapids without getting soaked, but what better way to bring down your body temperature and chill out?

13. Trader Sams Grog Grotto
(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
Pull up a bar stool and get ready to mix and mingle at one of the coolest spots on the "island." Tropical beverages with tiny umbrellas and exotic appetizers are what you desire then Trader Sams is the place that you'll want to be while on your Walt Disney World vacation. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is located off the main lobby of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort; the adjacent Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace offers views of the marina and Seven Seas Lagoon. Don't forget to pick up some of the collectible tiki mugs and bring the magic home with you. Shark Bait Hoo Ha Ha!

14. Live Musical Entertainment
Epcot guests can enjoy cool new entertainment acts throughout Epcot World Showcase this summer and here's the list of who is performing, where straight from Disney:
Italy – The spectacularly choreographed flag-throwing team of Sbandieratori Di Sansepolcro combines live music, energy, the flair of hand-painted flags, and magnificent period costumes.
United Kingdom – Strolling the quaint streets of the United Kingdom pavilion, the Paul McKenna Band is a traditional, acoustic four-piece group from Glasgow, Scotland. Their contemporary approach to songs never strays too far from their Scottish, folk music roots.
Morocco – B’net Al Houwariyate, a multi-generational Berber music and dance troupe from Marrakesh, illuminates the stories and experiences of women in Morocco in a lively and interactive performance.
Canada – The Canadian Lumberjacks demonstrate the time-honored tradition of Canada’s great timber and logging eras in a thrilling and friendly competition, featuring axe-throwing, chopping, log-rolling and more.
American Adventure – Beloved a cappella group Voices of Liberty moves outdoors twice per week to perform a modern twist on American classics at the American Gardens Theatre stage. Other days, a new five- member, contemporary a cappella group brings a vibrant musical energy to the stage. The group will perform a diverse range of popular American hits, all presented in a unique style with custom arrangements by Tim Davis, best known for his work on “Glee.”

15. Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station 
There is no better way to cool off the younger family members than with a super fun, super wet splash pad. Guests are in luck - Magic Kingdom Park has one, located near the train station in Storybook Circus. At Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station kids can have a blast in this circus-themed water play zone filled with interactive water features inspired by the locomotive from the beloved Disney movie, Dumbo. Don't forget to bring a bathing suit or a change of clothes!

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)

We hoped you enjoyed our top 15 ways to have the coolest summer ever at Walt Disney World Resort. What is your favorite, we'd love to hear it!

It's gonna be one COOL Summer!
You might even say the 
#CoolestSummer EVER!

 Disclosure: We were graciously hosted by the Walt Disney World Resort at the #CoolestSummer Ever Press Event. (Including airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and park tickets.) No other compensation was received. The opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only. All photos belong to us unless otherwise stated. Thanks for reading our blog!

13 Reasons to Attend the D23 Expo 2015 #D23Expo

All of the magic and excitement of Disney will come together once again for the D23 EXPO on August 14-16, 2015 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Just picture thousands of Disney Fanatics under one roof celebrating the pure joy of the Mouse presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. The Expo truly is the Ultimate Disney Fan Event and this year is said to be the biggest most successful one yet. There is so much to see and do it's awesome and totally overwhelming in the best possible way! From celebrity appearances, panels and presentations, sneak peeks, and unique experiences—all celebrating the past, present, and future of Disney entertainment.


The D23 Expo is really something very special to experience, in a way that only Disney does it. This will be our third year attending (they only happen once every 2 years) and we cannot wait to hit that convention floor. 

Here's our list of 13 reasons to attend this years D23 Expo.

1.) The Celebrities
The talented stars and creators from tweens, teens, and families’ favorite Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Disney Junior series will be at the Expo to meet, greet, and perform for their biggest fans. Seriously we've never seen so many celebrities in so little time. Some of this year's Disney stars include musical performances by Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Holt, Bea Miller, Dove Cameron, Sofia Carson, and a Teen Beach 2 Dance Party just to name a few. For more info click HERE.


2.) The Designs

In honor of Disneyland’s Diamond Anniversary, Disney fans—both young and young-at-heart—will depict Sleeping Beauty Castle in the D23 EXPO 2015 Design Challenge. The castle stands tall as a welcoming icon at Disneyland, as it has since the park’s opening on July 17, 1955. Now it has inspired artwork that will be on display throughout the D23 EXPO weekend on the show floor, located in the Walt Disney Archives area. For more info click HERE.


3.) The Movies
Grab your popcorn and get ready to see some exciting things coming to the big screen. The Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios will be showing previews of upcoming films such as Zootopia, Moana, The Good Dinosaur, and Finding Dory; Plus, a look the making of the Disney hit Aladdin. For more info click HERE.


4.) The Costumes

The Mousequerade Contest, is a one-of-a-kind event, taking place Friday, August 14 at the Expo. 15 participants in each of the following five categories (Heroes Unmasked, Once Upon a Costume, The Wonderful Worlds of Disney, Weird Wild & Goofy, and Best of Star Wars) will dazzle the crowd in Stage 23 with the original costume designs they have brought to life. For more info click HERE.


5.) The Artwork
Collectors Editions’ Official D23 Fine Art offering of Tim Rogerson’s “A Colorful Mind” will launch at EXPO and will be available in various editions, including the original. Disney Fine Art will also be presenting two D23 EXPO 2015-exclusive releases from legendary Disney artist Eric Goldberg to coincide with the launch of his new book, An Animator’s Gallery: Eric Goldberg Draws the Disney Characters. “Genie’s D23 Vacation” and “The D23 Gang” will also make their debut at D23 EXPO 2015. For more info click HERE.


6.) The Shows
Hooray for Broadway! Take a musical journey into Disney's history on Broadway and beyond. Following the incredible response from fans in 2013, Disney Theatrical Productions is thrilled to announce a new concert presented exclusively for this year’s D23 EXPO. This year's show is entitled Disney on Broadway’s “THE ORIGINALS” and will feature STARS FROM BROADWAY’S MARY POPPINS, TARZAN AND ALADDIN. For more info click HERE.


7.) The Emporium
The D23 Expo Emporium is truly a magical marketplace that brings collectors, vendors, and fans of each of those worlds together into one magical bazaar for your browsing and shopping pleasure. Whether you’re interested in pins, Vinylmation, Disney-inspired art, or vintage toys and collectibles, you’ll love strolling through the D23 EXPO Emporium, where there’s a surprise around every corner. For more info click HERE.

8.) The Legends
This year's Legends Ceremony is going to be well, legendary with honorees including Star Wars creator George Lucas, composer Danny Elfman, All My Children star Susan Lucci, Disney Animator Andreas Deja and other beloved contributors to the Disney legacy will be named and honored as official Disney Legends during D23 EXPO 2015 at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 14, in Hall D23 at the Anaheim Convention Center. The ceremony will be hosted by Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger, and will include special musical performances. The Disney Legends Awards program is a tradition of The Walt Disney Company. Bob Iger said that "The Disney Legend Award is reserved for the extraordinary visionaries and artists behind the Disney magic." For more info click HERE.


9.) The Archives
The Walt Disney Archives will celebrate the 60th anniversary of Disneyland at D23 EXPO 2015 with an exhibit of more than 300 pieces from the park’s incredible history. “Walt Disney Archives Presents—Disneyland: The Exhibit” will be the largest display the Disney Archives has ever showcased at D23 EXPO. The event, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, will be on display place throughout the entire Expo. For more info click HERE.


10.) The Games
Wanna play? The D23 Expo is not just to sit and listen. You better believe that there will be games for the gamer in your family. In the Disney Interactive pavilion on the show floor, players can experience the latest and upcoming titles through hands-on demos, innovative interactive experiences and premium giveaways for all guests. Also titles like Disney Infinity 3.0 Edition, Star Wars™ Battlefront™ and KINGDOM HEARTS III will be headlining Disney Interactive’s Hall D23 Presentation and Expo Pavilion. For more info click HERE.


11.) The Music
Music loving attendees are in for a fun-filled musical treat when Frozen FANdemonium: A Musical Celebration! takes over the 7,500-seat Hall D23. The event, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, will take place at 3:00 pm, Sunday, August 16, at the Anaheim Convention Center.
Radio Disney Road Crew will also be on hand throughout the Expo to keep the crowd pumped with music and also Radio Disney on-air personalities hosting electrifying Center Stage performances and events. For more info click HERE.


12.) The Shopping
Get ready to buy gadgets and gizmos a plenty. The Disney Store will have the all-new collections and Limited Editions launching at this year’s D23 EXPOLocated within the Disney Consumer Products Pavilion, the Disney Store shop will feature new and exclusive products showcased throughout more than 3,000 sq. ft. of retail space. New items celebrating everyone’s favorite characters will be unveiled each day throughout the weekend. We'll save a spot for you in line! For more info click HERE.


13.) The Magical Memories
There's a whole lot of Disney Magic under one roof. You won't believe how much pixie dust is in store for all who attend this one-of-a-kind Expo. There is definitely something for everyone and every age group. The memories we've made at the D23 Expos of the past are still some of our very favorite Disney memories of all time. ALL TIME. Disney is always better when you share it with someone, especially your sisters. We also recommend bringing the kids and create some unique Disney memories with them.


Disneyland 60th Diamond Anniversary Celebration: 25 Things To See at the Parks

Happy 60th Anniversary Disneyland! 

On this very day 60 years ago, July 17, 1955 Walt Disney proudly stood in front of guests, members of the media and VIPs to deliver this dedication speech that still makes Disney fans swoon everytime we hear it:

“To all who come to this happy place: Welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here, age relives fond memories of the past, and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America, with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.”

(Awesome photo courtesy of: @DisneylandPost on Instagram - follow him!)

Uncle Walt hoped Disneyland would be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world. He knocked it out of the Park (pun intended) after all, it's nicknamed "the Happiest Place on Earth." Year after year thousands of people visit Disneyland Resort to experience a one-of-a-kind place where they can let their imaginations soar and truly be a kid again. Disneyland is your land and now more than ever, it's the place where dreams come true.


Now, more than ever, Disneyland Resort is the place where dreams come true. Disneyland has made our families dreams come true many times and continues to do so. Visiting Disneyland Park when we were little girls was something out of a fairytale. Even more magical is seeing the Parks through the eyes of our children when we became mothers. That's the thing about Disneyland. It's always been there for us. It's a constant in all of our lives. A favorite place to visit to celebrate victories or a place to cheer us up when we've had a rough week. We believe in the magic. We are a family of dreamers. That's why we feel so at home at Disneyland Resort, we're surrounded by like-minded people who appreciate the pixie dust just as much as we do. While looking back in our family photo albums of Disney memories, what started in black and white has now turned into the Wonderful World of Color! Walt Disney's legacy continues to be passed down from generation to generation. We are proud to be part of the one and only Mickey Mouse Club!

(Beautiful photo courtesy of: @princepogiatdisney on Instagram - follow him!)

The magic is in the dazzling details at Disneyland Resort and even more so now with the 60th Diamond Anniversary Celebration and we're happy to share with you some of the sparkling sights!

Ticket Booths - Let the Celebration Begin

Park Tickets with Bling
(Adorable photo courtesy of: @bibbidibonnie on Instagram - follow her!)

Entrance of Disneyland - A Magical Welcome

Diamond Studded Light Posts

Decorative Bunting on Main Street U.S.A.

Brightly Colored Anniversary Mickey Balloons

Newly Enchanted Main Street Windows

Special Edition Mickey Mouse Ears

Peter Pan's Flight (newly re-imagined)
(Attraction photo courtesy of: Disney Parks Blog - check them out!)

Delightfully Sweet Treats
(Yummy photo courtesy of: Disney Parks Blog - check them out!)

A New Yeti (on Matterhorn Bobsleds)
(Scary photo courtesy of: Disney Parks Blog - check them out!)

Sleeping Beauty's Castle (Day & Night)


Lilly Belle - All Dressed Up

Paint the Night - New Electrical Parade

Bedazzled Beverage Cups

Characters All Dolled Up 

The Hatbox Ghost Returns (Haunted Mansion)

Limited Edition Disney Pins
(Adorable photo courtesy of: @miss.angiepickles on Instagram - follow her!)

Disneyland Forever Fireworks Spectacular
(Incredible photo courtesy of: @jtoddkey on Instagram - follow him!)

The Esplanade - A Banner Tribute

 Entrance of Disney California Adventure - Crowning Glory 

A Diamond Jubilee at Carthy Circle

World of Color - Celebrate!

Collectible Diamond Anniversary Merchandise

Diamond Mad T Party

What part of the 60th Anniversay are you most excited about?
   




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