For the latest on the Haunted Mansion 2007 updates and refurbishment, go here

14 July 2008: New Grand Marshal vehicle debuts in the Magic Kingdom

A new Grand Marshal vehicle has debuted in the Magic Kingdom theme park with a uniquely Disney touch -- Mickey Mouse tread designs on all four tires and the spare tire attached to the rear. The new car now carries guests of honor down the park's daily parade route in grand style. To fit the theme of Main Street, USA, the Grand Marshal vehicle was designed after a 1912 touring car. The design also allows guests in wheelchairs to board easily and ride in the main seating area.

 
Copyright 2008 THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

11 July 2008: Stars of television's "The Deadliest Catch" at the Magic Kingdom

Captain Sig Hansen (center), star of the Discovery Channel reality series "The Deadliest Catch," and his brothers -- Deckhand Norman Hansen (left) and Deck Boss Edgar Hansen (right) -- pose July 10, 2008 with a statue of Sebastian, the crab made famous in Disney's animated film "The Little Mermaid." The trio will make a guest appearance at Epcot July 11, 12 and 13, at the Norway Pavilion. Times are 2-4:30 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. each day. "The Deadliest Catch," which airs on The Discovery Channel, chronicles six boats, captains and crews in Dutch Harbor, Alaska, during the Alaskan king crab season. Based in Seattle, Wash., Hansen is a fourth-generation Norwegian fisherman.

Copyright 2008 THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

9 July 2008: Country Bear Jamboree refurbishment

Country Bear Jamboree is set for a refurbishment, closing September 28, 2008  to October 31, 2008. No information yet on what the refurbishment entails.

29 June 2008: Disney's Celebrate America!-A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky preview

This evening's performance of Wishes was replaced with a preview version of 'Disney's Celebrate America!-A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky', including the perimeter launch locations. The island launch location was not used however, but will be for the actual show on the 3rd and 4th. For video, go here.

19 June 2008: July 4 happenings at the Walt Disney World Resort

- A Fourth of July "Concert in the Sky" will light up the night at Magic Kingdom in honor of Independence Day. Featuring a magnificent display of aerial fireworks, dazzling pyrotechnic effects and dynamic music, the show, entitled "Disney's Celebrate America!-A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky," is a grand tribute to the United States, its people and traditions. The special show is scheduled for 9 p.m. Magic Kingdom also will feature two performances of the "SpectroMagic" nighttime parade, first at 10:30 p.m. and then again at 12:30 a.m. that same night.

- A holiday-inspired finale will be added to Epcot's nightly fireworks extravaganza, "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth." The park's American Adventure pavilion also will feature enhanced entertainment throughout the day, with visits from historic characters who will share their stories. American Adventure also will feature additional performances of its signature musical group, Voices of Liberty, performing patriotic classics.

- Disney's Hollywood Studios will present a special July 4th fireworks show at 9 p.m., with skyrockets and patriotic music filling the air at the showbiz-themed park. The park's popular "Fantasmic!" show, featuring fireworks, animation, dancing waters and Disney characters, will be presented on July 4 at 10:30 p.m.

- Downtown Disney will present July 4th fireworks at 10:30 p.m. for the revelers, shoppers and diners enjoying the nighttime entertainment district.

16 June 2008: New 'Smartwater' beverage available at snack carts

A new enhanced water offering is now on snack carts at the Magic Kingdom. Smartwater is selling for $3.25. The picture below was shot today at Town Square.

28 May 2008: Disney's Celebrate America! - A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky

This years 4th of July show at the Magic Kingdom will be an all new presentation with new music and new name. The title of the show will be "Disney's Celebrate America! - A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky".

The show will be presented on July 3rd and 4th, and will feature the normal Wishes firing locations, the castle, lagoon island and full 360 perimeters.

Disneyland will also feature the same soundtrack in an all new presentation, but with different firework design. WDW's version is being designed by Brad Cicotti (who has designed most of the other WDW special event shows). There will be two rehearsal nights for the show that will be presented to guests in place of Wishes on Sunday June 29th and Tuesday July 1st. The rehearsal shows will not have the lagoon island launch site, one night will be a full perimeter show, and the other night will feature only two of the perimeter sites.

1 May 2008: Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party tickets now on sale

Now on sale though the Disney Reservations Center: 1-407-W-DISNEY. Tickets will go on sale at www.disneyworld.com soon.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) is a one-of-a-kind Halloween party where guests can trick-or-treat immersed in the fantasy of the Magic Kingdom Park. It takes place from 7 p.m. to midnight on select nights in September and October. We have added five additional nights in 2008 for a total of 25 ghoulish events. The first event night is earlier than ever – September 5! This is the lowest priced (and best value!) Halloween Party in Central Florida!

Full Dates:
Sept 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 28, 30
Oct 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 16, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

Hours: 7 PM - 12 Midnight
Parade at 8:15pm and 10:30pm
Fireworks at 9:30pm

Premium Nights (no advance savings) are:
Sept 19, 26
Oct 3, 10, 16, 23, 24, 26, 30, 31

Premium and Gate Pricing (including taxes):
Adult (age 10+) $59.59
Child (age 3-9) $53.20

Advance purchase savings are available for the select dates:
Sept 5, 9, 12, 16, 23, 28, 30
Oct 2, 5, 7, 9, 13, 19, 21, 28

Advance Purchase Savings Price (including taxes):
Adult (age 10+) $52.14
Child (age 3-9) $45.75
Tickets must be purchased at least 1 day prior to event. Select nights only.

Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save even more by purchasing in advance for the following select nights:

Sept 9, 12, 23, 30
Oct 2, 7, 9, 21

DVC or Passholder Advance Purchase Savings Price (including taxes):
Adult (age 10+) $48.94
Child (age 3-9) $42.55

Passholders can purchase for themselves and up to 3 Guests
DVC Members can purchase for themselves and up to 5 Guests
All Passholder tickets and DVC Tickets must be picked up at Will Call to validate discount. Tickets must be purchased at least 1 day prior to event. Select nights only.

This years Halloween highlights:

The ever popular Mickey’s "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade. Back by popular demand.
Trick-or-treating throughout the Magic Kingdom® Park at numerous treat locations.
Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular – watch as the Disney Villains go trick-or-treating in the sky!
Characters decked out in their favorite costumes - so wear yours too.
Use of the most popular Magic Kingdom Park attractions.


Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP) takes place from 7 p.m. to midnight on select nights in November and December at the Magic Kingdom Park. It’s a magical night of special holiday entertainment including an enchanting parade, nighttime fireworks spectacular, Castle Dream Lights, Disney Character greetings, tasty treats, snow on Main Street, U.S.A., plus some of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions. Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is everything you love about Christmas plus the fantasy of the Magic Kingdom Park. This is the only Holiday-themed, family-event in Central Florida!

Dates:
Nov 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30
Dec 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19

Hours: 7 PM - 12 Midnight
Parade at 8:15pm and 10:30pm
Fireworks at 9:30pm


Premium Nights (no advance savings) are:
Nov 14, 21
Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 14, 18, 19

Premium and Gate Pricing (including taxes):
Adult (age 10+) $59.59
Child (age 3-9) $53.20

Advance purchase savings are available for the select dates:
Nov 10, 11, 16, 20, 30
Dec 2, 5, 7, 9, 16

Advance Purchase Savings Price (including taxes):
Adult (age 10+) $52.14
Child (age 3-9) $45.75
Tickets must be purchased at least 1 day prior to event. Select nights only.

Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save even more by purchasing in advance for the following select nights:

Nov 11, 20
Dec 7, 9, 16

DVC or Passholder Advance Purchase Savings Price (including taxes):
Adult (age 10+) $48.94
Child (age 3-9) $42.55

Passholders can purchase for themselves and up to 3 Guests
DVC Members can purchase for themselves and up to 5 Guests
All Passholder tickets and DVC Tickets must be picked up at Will Call to validate discount. Tickets must be purchased at least 1 day prior to event. Select nights only.

This years Holiday highlights:

Castle Dream Lights.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Holiday Wishes - Celebrate the Spirit of the Season Fireworks Spectacular.
Celebrate the Season Castle Stage Show.
Twas the Night Before Christmas Stage Show in Tomorrowland.
Snow on Main Street, U.S.A.
Complimentary Hot Cocoa and Cookies.
Use of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions.

Remember, extended table service dining times are available during these events at:

Liberty Tree Tavern
Tony's Town Square Restaurant
Cinderella's Royal Table

You may book these locations on all event nights starting today.

You may also book the Magic Kingdom Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for all event nights starting today.

7 April 2008: U.S. Air Force "Thunderbirds" fly over the Magic Kingdom

The Las Vegas, Nev.-based air demonstration team, celebrating its 55th anniversary this year, took a flight over Walt Disney World Resort following an air show in Punta Gorda, Fla. The Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform April 12-13 at an air show in Lakeland, Fla.

Copyright 2008 THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

30 March 2008: Pirates of the Caribbean refurbishment in June

Pirates of the Caribbean is set to be closed for refurbishment from June 5 2008 to June 18 2008.

14 March 2008: New temporary food stands in Tomorrowland for the Spring Break crowds

Tomorrowland has setup a temporary food stand offering burgers, hot dogs etc to help with the huge Spring Break crowds expected over the next few weeks.

4 March 2008: Splash Mountain's new third loading area

Splash reopened on 16 February with it's new third loading area to help increase loading efficiency. Pictured below is that very area. Thanks to nibblesandbits for the photo.

3 March 2008: Provisional dates for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

These dates are provisional and are not yet officially confirmed, so as always, are subject to change.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party for 2008, 7:00pm - 12:00am
September 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 28, 30, 2008
October 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 16, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31, 2008

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party for 2008, 7:00pm - 12:00am
November 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30, 2008
December 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 2008

1 March 2008: Peter Pan's Flight closed for refurbishment today

Peter Pan's Flight closed for refurbishment from March 1, 2008 to March 11, 2008.

1 March 2008: Jungle Cruise refurbishment dates

Jungle Cruise will be closed for refurbishment May 11 - May 24 2008.

17 February 2008: Snow White's Scary Adventures reopens after refurbishment

Snow White's Scary Adventures has reopened after it's refurbishment. For some rider comments, see our forum at http://forums.wdwmagic.com/showthread.php?t=278436

16 February 2008: Splash Mountain reopens from refurbishment

Splash Mountain has reopened from it's refurbishment with a new third loading area to help increase rider throughput.

12 February 2008: New Year of a Million Dreams banners

Some new Year of a Million Dreams banners have popped up around the entry area to the Magic Kingdom. Thanks to Figment1986 for the photos.

12 February 2008: Snow White refurbishment update

Snow White is currently closed for refurbishment, and is set to reopen on February 17 2008. The front of the attraction remains walled off. Thanks to Figment1986 for the photos.

12 February 2008: Splash Mountain refurbishment photos

Splash Mountain is set to reopen on February 18th 2008, and there is now water visible in most of the exterior areas. The main drop is still dry however.

15 January 2008: City Hall refurbishment photos

City Hall on Main Street USA is under an exterior refurbishment. Disney have done a great job of installing a "City Hall facade" painted construction wall. Thanks to ScottJ for the photos.

15 January 2008: Splash Mountain refurbishment photos

Splash Mountain is currently under refurbishment and reopens on February 18th 2008. As you can see from the photos  below, the system has been drained and work is underway on the lifts. Thanks to ScottJ for the photos.

11 November 2007: Cinderella Castle light show for the holidays

 
Copyright 2007 THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- A dazzling new lighting spectacle is transforming the iconic Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort into a glimmering, shimmering ice palace at holiday time.

Bathed in more than 200,000 tiny white lights, the castle glows and glistens as "Cinderella's Holiday Wish" delights Magic Kingdom guests nightly, starting Nov. 12.

"We are thrilled to be adding this brilliant new castle spectacle to the holiday festivities at Walt Disney World this season and for seasons to come," said Francois Leroux, vice president of Walt Disney World Entertainment. "This glistening holiday enchantment creates perfect fairytale magic for this festive time of year."

"For a park aglow in holiday magic, this becomes the new and eye-filling superstar," added Disney Entertainment show producer Rob Hamberg who supervised the weeks-long rigging of the turrets and towers for the light show. "Nothing will rival 'Cinderella's Holiday Wish' for sheer visual spectacle."

And what a spectacle.

As if suddenly dusted in a million ice crystals, Cinderella Castle shines like the galaxies, adding to the wintertime wonderment of the holidays at Florida's Vacation Kingdom.

Fun Facts

To transform Cinderella's fairytale castle into a magical ice palace it took...

Five weeks and 65 elves
Two cranes
15 miles of cables, cut and dyed castle colors, supporting...
32,000 square feet of fishing nets, supporting...
200,000 energy-efficient LEDs, interspersed with...
500 strobes
One Fairy Godmother working some very special magic...
"Show Before the Glow" Stars Disney Characters

To mirthful holiday music, Mickey, Minnie and the gang appear onstage, admiring the festive lights illuminating Main Street, U.S.A. But what to do about the darkened, unadorned castle?

As they bandy about ideas, the Fairy Godmother suddenly appears. It is Cinderella who should rightfully decide, she insists.

Enter the princess herself, with her Prince Charming. All agree with Cinderella that her castle should sparkle the way her beloved glass slippers do -- like shimmering ice and snow.

With a wave of Fairy Godmother's wand -- and guests joining in to make the wish come true -- Cinderella Castle magically morphs into a glorious wintry confection, twinkling in the sky. "The castle suddenly shines like a glistening blanket of ice," explained Disney show writer/director Alan Bruun. "Guests won't believe their eyes at the spectacle as Cinderella's holiday wish comes true."

Show times will be nightly at 5:45 p.m. Cinderella Castle aglow will also play a supporting role in other Magic Kingdom entertainment such as live stage shows, the nighttime fireworks extravaganza "Holiday Wishes," and the after-hours Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, a specially-ticketed event featuring the new "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade."

Like a global necklace, dazzling castle lighting spectacles also adorn Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland and Disneyland Resort. Disneyland Paris, now marking its 15th anniversary, started the castle lighting tradition in 2005 when Leroux conceived the concept.

11 November 2007: Magic Kingdom holiday decorations

With still a day to go before the Magic Kingdom officially begins the holiday season, these photos show the latest progress on the decoration installation.

Below: Photos of the LED lights installed over the castle. The castle will be lit each night from November 12th at 5:45 p.m. nightly. The show is called Cinderella's Holiday Wish.

11 November 2007: Main Street Cinema becoming Art of Disney store

The former Main Street Cinema is currently being converted into the Art of Disney store.

23 October 2007: Jungle Cruise refurbishment and Tortuga Restaurant on hold

The Jungle Cruise is set for a small refurbishment in Spring of 2008. Nothing major is expected to happen, with most taking place on the loading dock area. Dates for the refurbishment have not yet been officially confirmed.

In other Magic Kingdom news, the long speculated Tortuga restaurant in the Adventureland Veranda seems to have fallen by the way side. Apparently, costs are making the project unfeasible in the near future, with the belief that funds can be better spent elsewhere in the Magic Kingdom. Whilst the project has been canned for now, it could well reappear again in the future.

26 September 2007: Refurbishments at the Magic Kingdom in January 2008

Splash Mountain will be closed for refurbishment  from January 1 2008 to February 15 2008.

Snow White's Scary Adventures will closed for refurbishment from January 28 2008 to February 15 2008.

16 September 2007: Captain Jack meet and greet photos

As reported a few days ago, today saw the first of the Captain Jack meet and greets. The photos below show the Veranda where the meet takes place, and some of the inside.

 
Above: The Adventureland Veranda entrance

 
Above left: Signage advertising the meet
Above right: The queue area inside

 
Above: Some of the props in the queue area

 
Above: The queue area and sets

14 September 2007: Captain Jack meet and greet test in Adventureland

There will be an upcoming test of Captain Jack doing meet and greets (like at the Pirate and Princess Party) in the Adventureland Veranda. It will take place on Sunday through Thursday of next week, and then Sunday to Wednesday and Saturday of the week afterwards. He will be there from approximately 10am to 6pm daily and will sign autographs and take pictures. Captain Jack will not be there during the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, just during the daytime as a VERY LIMITED TEST. Remember that as always with tests, there are no guarantees of appearances.

13 September 2007: The Haunted Mansion reopens

The Haunted Mansion reopens after its comprehensive refurbishment. Full details here.

10 September 2007: The Magic Kingdom prepares for Halloween

In preparation for the two month long Disney celebration of Halloween, the Magic Kingdom is decorated with pumpkins, scarecrows, window displays and Halloween colored banners.

 
Above left: A pumpkin and scarecrow display at the main entrance.
Above right: The train station decorated with Halloween banners.

 
Above: More of the Town Square decorations.

 
Above: The Halloween banners that line Main Street USA.

 
Above: Two of the Main Street USA Halloween window displays.

3 September 2007: September refurbishments for the Magic Kingdom

Astro Orbiter will be closed for refurbishment September 9, 2007 to September 22, 2007.

Donald's Boat will be closed for refurbishment September 4, 2007 to September 18, 2007.

Liberty Square Riverboat will be closed for Refurbishment September 17, 2007 to September 20, 2007.

Pooh's Playful Spot will be closed for refurbishment September 16, 2007 to September 20, 2007.

The Haunted Mansion will be closed for refurbishment until September 12, 2007.

1 August 2007: Priority access to the new Haunted Mansion for Annual Passholders in September

The official Disney AP holder website has released the following:

"Make yourself at "tomb sweet tomb" in the home of 999 happy haunts, where there's "always room for one more." Inside, hop on a Doom Buggy to get in the "spirit" of things. Experience the stretching room, the séance and hitchhiking ghosts in this Disney classic.

Ride along with your ghost host as you discover new spine-tingling encounters with creepy special effects and an all new scene exclusive to The Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom® Park. On select days in September, Passholders can enjoy priority access to this enhanced classic attraction.

Passholder Priority Access:
September 14, 9:00 AM - Noon
September 15, 9:00 AM - Noon
September 16, 9:00 AM - Noon"

25 July 2007: Haunted Mansion details begin to emerge

Some exciting information is beginning to materialize regarding the currently in-progress Haunted Mansion refurbishment. Besides upgrades to the audio, lighting and special effects systems, the floating Madame Leota head and the Haunted Bride from Disneyland will both be installed, and best of all, they have both been improved on since the Disneyland installation. Another great addition to the mansion will be a completely new scene, taking place in the former spider scene. It's an all new multiple staircase scene, unique to Florida's mansion. There will also be other additions throughout the attraction scenes, including new props.

The new improved Haunted Mansion is set to open in September 2007. Don't expect it to reopen early though, as the timescales are apparently very tight to get everything completed.

14 July 2007: Self service kiosk trial at Pecos Bill restaurant

New self service kiosks have been installed at the Pecos Bill restaurant, and is the first trial location for counter service restaurants in the parks. Guests can order food, and pay using credit card, Disney Dining Plan, or room charge. A receipt is printed, and the food is picked up in the normal way at a dedicated pickup point for the self service kiosks. For guests who don't wish to use the kiosks, the regular cast member order points are still available. As you can see from the photos below, the theming of the restaurant is carried through into the kiosks, and the on screen displays.

22 June 2007: July 4 Fantasy in the Sky details

The Magic Kingdom July 4 firework show will again be performing two July 4 shows this year, on the 3rd July and the 4th July. It will feature the full 360 degree pyro effects, fired from the 9 locations around the park. This year is also set to be the last showing of the current July 4 show, next year will feature a new soundtrack and new pyro design.

20 June 2007: Magic Kingdom July 4 entertainment schedule

"Disney Dreams Come True" parade (12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.); "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks (9 p.m.); "SpectroMagic" parade (10:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.). Park hours: 8 a.m.-1 a.m.

7 June 2007: Uma Thurman visits the Magic Kingdom

Golden Globe award-winning actress Uma Thurman gets into the pirate spirit at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. June 7, 2007, with Minnie Mouse at her side. Thurman is on vacation at Walt Disney World Resort with her family. (Diana Zalucky, photographer)

Copyright 2007 THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

3 May 2007: Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party tickets now available

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) is a one-of-a-kind Halloween party where guests can trick-or-treat immersed in the fantasy of the Magic Kingdom Park. It takes place from 7 p.m. to midnight on select nights in September, October and November. We have added two additional nights in 2007 for a total of 20 nights. The first event night is earlier than ever – September 14!

Dates:
Sep 14, 21, 28, 30
Oct 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31
Nov 2

Hours:
7 PM - 12 Midnight

Prices:
Gate Price (including taxes):

Adult (age 10+) $48.94
Child (age 3-9) $42.55

Gate Pricing subject to availabilty, many nights will sell out in advance.

Advance Purchase Savings Price (including taxes):

Adult (age 10+) $41.49
Child (age 3-9) $35.10

Tickets must be purchased at least 1 day prior to event.
Select nights only. Advance ticket savings of $7 per ticket are available for all nights except: Friday 9/21, Friday 9/28, Friday 10/05, Tuesday 10/12, Thursday 10/18, Thursday 10/25, Friday 10/26, and Wednesday 10/31.

DVC or Passholder Advance Purchase Savings Price (including taxes):

Adult (age 10+) $38.29
Child (age 3-9) $31.90

Passholders can purchase for themselves and up to 3 Guests
DVC Members can purchase for themselves and up to 5 Guests
Specially priced tickets must be purchased in ADVANCE and are not available on-site or on the day of the event. All Passholder tickets and DVC Tickets must be picked up at Will Call to validate discount. Select nights only. Discounted dates include: Friday 9/14, Thursday 10/4, Tuesday 10/16, Sunday 10/21, Tuesday 10/23, and Friday 11/2.

3 May 2007: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party tickets now available

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party tickets now available

3 May 2007: Disney's Pirate and Princess Party tickets now on sale for August and September 2007

Disney's Pirate and Princess Party tickets now on sale for August and September 2007

26 April 2007: Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Spreads Pixie Dust to Magic Kingdom

A second location of Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Disney's "magical makeover" salon for young princesses and "cool dudes," opens in September at Walt Disney World Resort, taking up royal residence in Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom theme park.

Princesses can choose from three makeover packages -- the "Coach" makeover (hairstyle and shimmering makeup), the "Crown" makeover (hairstyle, nails and shimmering makeup) and the "Castle" makeover (hairstyle, nails, shimmering makeup, an imaging package and princess costume of their choice complete with crown, wand and shoes).

Within each makeover package, young princesses can choose from three different hairstyles -- the Disney Diva, the Pop Princess or the Fairytale Princess.

The Magic Kingdom salon will be open every day from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Children must be three years or older and theme park admission is required.

The first salon is located at Downtown Disney Marketplace, inside the World of Disney Princess Room.

Reservations are recommended, and can be made by calling 407/WDW-STYLE (407/939-7895) up to 180 days in advance.

18 April 2007: Laugh Floor running during EMH

The Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor has been running during evening Extra Magic Hours over the past few weeks. There is no indication if this was just during the busy Easter period, or if this will be come a permanent addition to the EMH nights.

1 April 2007: Pinocchio Villa Haus express pizza on the go

The Pinocchio Villa Haus is running a new system where guests can enter an express cash only lane to pick up a limited selection from the regular menu with minimal wait. Two types of pizza are offered, along with the regular beverage line. The other lanes retain the full menu service, but with the usual wait time.

15 March 2007: 25th annual Night of Joy lineup

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Walt Disney World Resort has announced the talent lineup for the milestone 25th annual Night of Joy on Sept. 7 and Sept. 8 in Magic Kingdom, with Third Day, Chris Tomlin and David Crowder*Band on the marquee of a nine-act lineup of Christian music artists Sept. 7 followed by newsboys, Steven Curtis Chapman and Salvador spearheading a nine-act lineup Sept. 8.

The talent bill, a combination of celebrated Christian music veterans and heralded newcomers, also will include:

On Friday, Sept. 7 -- Jaci Velasquez, Brian Littrell, BarlowGirl, Leeland, Jessie Daniels and Sanctus Real; and

On Saturday, Sept. 8 -- Smokie Norful, Kutless, Red, Mary Mary, Flyleaf and Mark Schultz. The Saturday entertainment lineup also will include a Best of Show winner from the GMA's 33rd annual Music in the Rockies event.

Night of Joy, which requires a special ticket, begins at 7:30 p.m. (after regular theme park closing) and continues to 12:30 a.m. Performances will be at several stage locations throughout Magic Kingdom. In addition, Magic Kingdom attractions -- including the ever-popular Space Mountain, Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad -- will be in operation.

Advance tickets ($41.95 plus tax for one night, $71.95 plus tax for both nights) are available by calling 407/W-DISNEY or by visiting disneyworld.com/nightofjoy online. Tickets purchased on the date of the event will be $46.95 plus tax if available (Night of Joy is frequently sold out in advance).

Night of Joy began in 1983, and throughout its quarter-century history it has been a showcase for musically diverse talent lineups. 2007 is no exception: Among the 18 national recording acts are performers who have won or are currently nominated for GMA Dove Awards in 10 different musical genres -- rock, rock/contemporary, urban, pop/contemporary, traditional gospel, contemporary gospel, Spanish language, instrumental, inspirational, and worship.

Thirteen of this year's artists are nominees for Christian music's highest honors, to be presented April 25 at the 38th annual GMA Dove Awards at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tenn. Among the hopefuls is Steven Curtis Chapman, Christian music's most decorated talent with more than 50 Dove Awards and five Grammy Awards, who will be making his ninth Night of Joy appearance -- equaling the most visits to the Disney stage by any of the 116 Christian music acts that have played the event in its first 24 years.

This year's lineup also includes seven acts making their Night of Joy debut -- including 2006 Dove Award Artist of the Year Chris Tomlin, who has a dizzying nine nominations for Dove Awards in 2007. Other Night of Joy newbies: Brian Littrell, Leeland, Jessie Daniels, Sanctus Real, Red and Flyleaf. Like Tomlin, their reputations precede them, as four have garnered Dove Award nominations in 2007, and two have Dove Awards on their resume.

Night of Joy has played to a combined audience of more than 900,000 guests in its first 24 years.

9 March 2007: Haunted Mansion refurbishment dates confirmed

The Haunted Mansion will be closed for routine refurbishment beginning Wednesday, June 6, through Wednesday, September 12, 2007, reopening to Guests on Thursday, September 13, 2007.

18 February 2007: Haunted Mansion refurbishment coming soon?

There are currently plans to carry out a fairly extensive refurbishment of the Haunted Mansion this year, beginning June 2007, and completing in early October 2007. These dates are not yet confirmed, so don't plan trips around them, but they have been put forward as a likely timeframe.

13 February 2007: "Let's Have a Ball" set to close

The small show called "Let's Have a Ball" that takes place just behind the castle in Fantasyland is currently set to close on February 24th 2007.

15 January 2007: Splash Mountain Refurbishment photos

Splash Mountain is currently under refurbishment until January 27th 2007. Thanks to Scott J for the photos

13 January 2007: Pirate and Princess Party advertisements

The Magic Kingdom has built some sets near the entrance of the park to let guests know about the new Pirate and Princess Party. For more information go here.

 
Thanks to ScottJ for the photos

2 January 2007: Changes to the Market House and Bakery on Main Street USA

Market House on Main Street USA will be closing tomorrow, and will be turned into a glass shop for Arribias brothers. The location will reopen in Spring 2007.  Once that opens, the current glass shop in the seating area for the bakery will be removed, leaving the bakery with a larger seating area.

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