Over The Top Mommy

Grab Your Southern California Resident Ticket for the Disneyland Resort Beginning Jan. 7

January 3, 2019 / Disneyland Resort, SoCal Fun, Travel

The Disneyland Resort is celebrating the new year with a special ticket offer just for Southern California residents. Beginning Jan. 7, 2019, eligible guests may visit Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park for as little as $60 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket. There’s never been a more ideal time to enjoy even more spectacular entertainment, favorite festivals, the newly reimagined Pixar Pier, Super Hero experiences and the biggest celebration ever for Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. In addition to this special ticket offer, the three Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are offering special rates on standard and premium rooms for a limited time.Southern California Resident Limited-Time Ticket Offer
The Southern California Resident Ticket Offer* provides special values to enjoy magic and
adventure for three days, including one day of Magic Morning** in Disneyland. For a limited time, Southern California residents may select from these specially-priced ticket options and save on select multi-day tickets:

3-day, 1-park per day ticket for $179
3-day Park Hopper ticket for $234

These specially-priced tickets are an ideal way for Southern California residents to make
memories by spending time at the Disneyland Resort with family and friends. Guests using
these special tickets will enjoy a variety of classic attractions and entertaining shows throughout the resort, as well as exciting new experiences. These three-day tickets are available for purchase from Jan. 7 through May 20, 2019, and may be used on a consecutive three-day visit or three separate days throughout the travel period. Tickets expire on May 23, 2019 and blockout dates of April 14 through April 22, 2019 apply.*Southern California residents may purchase tickets beginning January 7, 2019 at http://www.Disneyland.com/SoCal and at Disneyland Resort ticket booths. Guests who purchase
tickets online may print their tickets at home. Proof of residency is required for purchase and
theme park admission.

Save Up to 25 Percent at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort
Disney vacationers who wish to stay and play in the heart of the magic will enjoy special savings with room offers at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. Hotel guests can save up to 25 percent off select rooms, Sunday through Thursday nights, based upon availability from Jan. 6-April 11, 2019. Guests may save up to 20 percent on standard rooms and 25 percent on premium rooms at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa; up to 20 percent on standard rooms and 25 percent on premium rooms at Disneyland Hotel, and up to 10 percent on standard and premium rooms at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. These room offers may be reserved now through March 16, 2019.ϮThe Hotels of the Disneyland Resort offer easy, convenient access to both parks, with benefits and magical touches that only a Disneyland hotel can provide. Whether it’s discovering whimsical Disney art at the Disneyland Hotel, stepping back in time to the golden days of California beachfronts at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, or appreciating Craftsman-style elegance at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, staying at any of the resort hotels provides Disney magic from check-in to check-out. Enchanted experiences only available at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort include character dining, wake-up calls by request and themed room elements. Hotel guests may make the most of their time with the Extra Magic Hour, with their valid theme park ticket. For more information, please visit http://www.disneyland.com. Extra Magic Hour offers park admission to a designated theme park one hour earlier than the general public and is available for guests who stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotel. Ϯ ϮDetails about the Southern California ticket offer will be available at http://www.Disneyland.com/SoCal beginning January 7. For park hours and entertainment schedules or to book a Disneyland Resort vacation, please visit the resort’s daily calendar at Disneyland.com.

American Girl’s 2019 Girl of the Year™Blaire Wilson is Here

January 2, 2019 / Lifestyle

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

With the start of each brand new year, millions of girls everywhere are counting down to the announcement of American Girl’s newest Girl of the Year™! Well, it’s 2019 and if you didn’t catch the official announcement on Good Morning America’s exclusive reveal, Blaire Wilson™ is here! She launched January 1 and is now available all American Girl retail locations nationwide; and at American Girl specialty boutiques at select Indigo™ and Chapters™ locations in Canada and online HERE.

“We’re proud to introduce fans to our 2019 Girl of the Year, Blaire Wilson—an everyday girl who thrives on using her many talents to make meaningful connections with others. Building and maintaining supportive relationships with family and friends is central to Blaire’s story—a message we think is important to champion among girls today. In an age where families are often striving for quality time together, we hope Blaire inspires everyone to make a New Year’s resolution to connect more regularly with the important people in their lives and make their time together this year really count.” – Julia Prohaska, Vice President of Marketing for American Girl.

About Blaire
Blaire is a young chef-in-training who loves bringing people together. She joins American Girl’s family of characters and timeless stories designed to help girls think about their own character and who they want to be. A natural people person, Blaire excels at gathering people around the dinner table but needs help finding balance between the digital world and the real world—like many people today. Through Blaire, girls will learn the importance of staying connected to the people they care about and that this means more than clicking and swiping—it means truly being there.

Blaire’s story unfolds in a chapter book series written by Jennifer Castle and published by Scholastic. In the two books, available now, Blaire loves to put her cooking and decorating talents to good use on her family’s sustainable farm and bed-and-breakfast in upstate New York. When the opportunity to plan the farm’s first wedding arises, Blaire jumps in with gusto. However, between overextending herself to create the perfect farm-fancy event and a newly diagnosed food sensitivity that makes her self-conscious, Blaire finds herself more engaged on her devices than at real-life gatherings with others. Ultimately, through the help of her family and friends, Blaire finds a healthy balance and learns the value of being fully present at every occasion.Blaire comes to life for girls via a beautiful 18-inch doll, featuring bright green eyes and curly red hair. Blaire’s world features an array of outfits, accessories, and products that reflect her life on Pleasant View Farm, including a sweet lamb and piglet, festive party decor, and Blaire’s Family Farm Restaurant, with everything needed to play out a show stopping farm-to-table celebration.Fans can learn more about Blaire at the following 2019 events and activities:

Blaire Online Play: Girls can visit http://play.americangirl.com/play/girl-of-the-year/blaire for book excerpts, games and activities, and Blaire’s Life at Pleasant View Farm Vlog posts from her family’s sustainable farm, featuring delicious recipes, gardening tips, cooking and craft videos, and more.
Blaire’s Family Dinner Series: To promote mealtime togetherness, families are invited to attend a Blaire-inspired dinner series at select American Girl retail restaurants across the country in 2019. Parents can visit americangirl.com/stores to learn more or make a reservation.

For more information about American Girl, please visit https://www.americangirl.com/. To request a free catalogue, please call 1-800-845-0005.

Images are property of Mattel and American Girl and used with permission.

What’s New at The Disneyland Resort in 2019?

January 1, 2019 / California, Disney, Disney, Disneyland Resort, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

It was a great end to 2018 for me as I got to spend the morning with my daughter at Disneyland for a few hours and later on at home we got to watch Disney Parks Blog’s live stream of New Year’s Eve fireworks from Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World! Disney Parks Blog also released their first digital wallpaper of the year and it’s adorable! You can download yours for either mobile or desktop HERE.

Now that 2019 is off to a magical start, it’s time to take a peek at what’s going to be new this year at The Disneyland Resort! I feel like a kid in a candy store awaiting the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in summer. Meanwhile, the first few months look to be jam packed already with tons of exciting offerings! Starting in January and continuing throughout 2019, the Disneyland Resort will offer a collection of adventures, festivals, shows, food, Disney character interactions and more to inspire guests to join the fun with family and friends.Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie Celebration
2019 will kick off in true Disney fashion with Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie
Celebration, a party to celebrate Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at the place where they first appeared for guests. Adored for generations, Mickey and Minnie Mouse have brought joy and inspiration to millions of fans around the world. Join in and toast their 90-year legacy with a magical, musical celebration featuring entertainment, Character Greetings, themed menu selections, merchandise and more.

Mickey’s Mix Magic – beginning January 18
Guests can light up the night with Mickey’s Mix Magic, a new, high-energy projection show celebrating the one and only Mickey Mouse. Held at Disneyland Park, this family-friendly event features the theme song, “It’s a Good Time” as well as dance-tastic takes on some of your favorite Disney hits and a virtual visit from none other than “DJ” Mickey, of course!

Watch state-of-the-art projections, lighting and lasers transform various parts of the park—Main Street, U.S.A., the water screens on Rivers of America and the façade of “it’s a small world”—into dazzling displays of sight, sound and color.

Mickey’s Soundsational Parade – beginning January 25
Mouseketeers and Guests alike will fall head over heels for the returning fan favorite, Mickey’s Soundsational Parade, a beloved park classic that’s back to mark one of the most exciting milestones in Disney history—Mickey’s 90th. The parade features popular Disney peeps, whimsical floats, music and lots of larger-than-life surprises. During a rockin’ new opening, Mickey leads the way with a giant celebration cake accompanied by Chip ‘n’ Dale! Celebrate Valentine’s Month with Mickey and Minnie – Jan. 22 through Feb. 18,
Join Disneyland Resort to celebrate the love of Minnie and Mickey for Valentine’s month. Guests will find a new Mickey Mouse flower “portrait,” and lovely and festive Valentine’s décor all along Main Street, U.S.A. Guests may also choose to partake in Minnie’s Valentine Surprise, a special scavenger hunt experience in Disneyland park. After purchasing a commemorative map and stickers at select merchandise locations, they may search for the hidden valentines that Minnie has left for Mickey around the park. Upon completion, maps can be returned to a designated location to redeem a special Valentine’s surprise.* Lunar New Year Celebration – Jan. 25 through Feb. 17
Disneyland Resort will, once again, celebrate Lunar New Year and the Year of the Pig inside Disney California Adventure Park. A joyous celebration of Asian cultures, the Lunar New Year celebration welcomes guests of all ages to commemorate the tradition with beloved Disney characters, and welcome another year of good fortune. Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, a limited-time offering during the Lunar New Year celebration, is a bright and bold parade hosted by Mulan and her faithful dragon, Mushu. As a special treat for the Year of the Pig, the Three Little Pigs will join the procession. Delicious Asian food and kid-friendly crafts and activities will be available as well.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival – March 1 through April 23, 2019
Discover a cornucopia of culinary fun—from Festival Marketplaces and tastings to inspirational cooking demonstrations. Whether you’re a foodie, aspiring home chef, wine enthusiast or just looking to glean a few cutting-edge techniques, the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival delivers something for palates of all ages year after year.
will offer tasty treats and special entertainment for guests of all ages to enjoy. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for the latest updates on this year’s Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival. Coming later in 2019
As I mentioned before, summer 2019, is going to be all about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park! For the first time ever, guests will be able to live their own Star Wars adventure at the highly anticipated new land, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The opening will make Disney history as the largest single-land expansion ever at the Disneyland Resort. In this epic, new land, guests will live their own adventure in a galaxy far, far away and explore Black Spire Outpost. Once a busy crossroads, this spaceport on the planet Batuu is now home to those who prefer to stay out of the mainstream, including smugglers, rogue traders and exotic creatures traveling between the frontier and uncharted space.Guests will take the controls in one of three unique and critical roles aboard Millennium
Falcon: Smugglers Run. On Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, guests can join a battle
between the First Order and the Resistance – including a face-off with Kylo Ren. These two new incredible experiences, paired with the land’s interactive components and optional integration with the Play Disney Parks app, will invite guests to become galactic travelers and live their own Star Wars adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.As you can see, there’s a lot that’s about to happen in this new year at the Disneyland Resort! What are you most excited for in 2019? Share with me in the comments!

Some images and logos are property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission.

The 2019 Epcot® International Festival of the Arts Begins January 18

December 20, 2018 / Florida, Travel, Walt Disney World

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

The Epcot®International Festival of the Arts at Walt Disney World Resort, a celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts and is set to begin its annual run on Jan. 18, 2019 for the 3rd year in a row. The highly anticipated event has become very popular with Disney fans over the past couple of years and will continue for 39 days this year, through Feb. 25, 2019. This year’s festival will feature more live music than ever before, along with fresh tastes to savor and new artwork to admire and bring home. This year, the festival will be held 7 days a week and is included with the cost of Park admission to Epcot. Guests at Epcot International Festival of the Arts have the opportunity to experience visual, culinary and performing arts at the festival. According to the Disney Parks Blog, the International Festival of the Arts is a “feast for the senses. The event offers visual arts experiences, interactive workshops and seminars. There are also opportunities to learn artistic techniques from professionals skilled in floral design, ink and paint, photography, and more. Seminars typically run 30 minutes and are included with park admission. Please note: Seminars can be reserved on the “day-of” at the Odyssey Festival Showplace. The 2019 Festival of the Arts will provide fun for the whole family every day, including mesmerizing performance art, complimentary seminars, hands-on activities and much more:

Everyone’s invited to grab a paintbrush and help create a wall mural along World Showcase Plaza.
Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to literally step inside works of art and take fun photos, such as the “Washington Crossing the Delaware” Artful Photo Opportunity.
The Paint with a Disney Artist program invites guests to learn under the tutelage of a professional (offered select Fridays and Sundays, including continental breakfast, for an additional fee).
Complimentary 30-minute seminars will give guests helpful instruction for producing their own artwork at home.
More than 50 visiting artists participating in the festival will be available to meet with guests and share insights on their work.
Gravity-defying feats of strength, acrobatics and many performing artists are scheduled throughout the festival.
International musical and variety acts will share their talents with guests, including the return of Bodh’aktan to the Canada stage and Delta Q, a new group performing in Germany.
Guests can join in the fun of Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt by purchasing a map at select merchandise locations.

2019 Workshops
A variety of workshops led by professionals will teach different artistic techniques, such as floral design, ink and paint, mixed-media art and more (offered Friday-Monday for an additional fee). As a memento of what they learned, guests will take their creations home with them. For more information on workshop and seminar offerings, please visit ArtfulEpcot.com.
Workshops are hands-on, interactive experiences that allow you an opportunity to create your own work of art to take home. Workshops run 75 minutes and are offered Friday-Monday for an additional fee. Also returning this year is the fan-favorite “Paint with a Disney Artist” experience. Offered select Fridays and Sundays, a talented Disney Artist will guide you in creating your own masterpiece! The event is perfect for seasoned painters and those just learning this beautiful art form. Bonus – continental breakfast is also included! For more information on workshop and seminar offerings, and to book your painting adventure, please visit ArtfulEpcot.com or call (407) WDW-TOUR.
Let’s Talk about the Festival Food
The Epcot International Festival of the Arts will feature 13 Food Studios, plus additional creative food and beverage offerings around Epcot with an expanded selection of delicious new tastes to savor including such delicacies as:

beef wellington with mushroom bordelaise, fennel cream and roasted baby vegetables (The Artist’s Table)
Smoked salmon and cream gâteau with egg yolk cream, paddlefish caviar and micro-herbs is sure to be a new favorite (The Painter’s Palate)
almond frangipane cake with raspberry and chocolate (Pop Eats!)
Red wine-braised short rib with parsnip purée, broccolini, baby tomatoes and aged balsamic (Cuisine Classique)

For a full list of food you’ll find at the Festival, please go HERE. Take home a piece of the Festival
Guests can bring a piece of the festival home. Art collectors and Disney enthusiasts will be delighted to browse different pieces throughout the park, at the Art of Disney store and in the Festival Markets, which will be available for purchase. Special festival merchandise will be available at Mouse Gear and other Epcot locations featuring the festival’s logo adorning shirts, mugs, totes and other charming items.New for The 2019 Festival of the Arts
New this year, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series expands to seven days a week during the festival, providing more opportunities than ever before to bask in live Disney magic. Each week, different pairs of Disney on Broadway stars will take the America Gardens Theatre stage to sing favorite songs from award-winning Disney on Broadway productions. The lineup will rotate regularly, featuring music from shows such as “The Lion King,” “Frozen” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Some performers this year include:

Kerry Butler (“Beauty and the Beast”) and Kevin Massey (“Tarzan”)
Meredith Inglesby (“The Little Mermaid”) and Steve Blanchard (“Beauty and the Beast”)
Arielle Jacobs and Adam Jacobs (“Aladdin”)
Heidi Blickenstaff (“Freaky Friday”) and Gavin Lee (“Mary Poppins”)
Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins”) and Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”)
Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White (“The Lion King”)

The concert series is included with park admission; showtimes are 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. nightly. Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Packages are also available at participating Epcot restaurants. For a full schedule of shows and to reserve your show seating package, please visit Disneyworld.com. Reservations can also be made by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

Some images are property of Walt Disney World and used with permission.

New Coastal Spa “Drift” Opens at The Waterfront Beach Resort

December 18, 2018 / SoCal Fun, Travel

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, announced the opening of Drift Spa, the latest addition to the renovated oceanfront resort and newest spa in world-famous Surf City. Drift is an 8,000 sq. foot full-service coastal spa that features an exclusive sensory experience designed to leave guests feeling calm and carefree.In addition to boasting nine spa treatment rooms and an extensive treatment menu that proudly offers organic and natural products, Drift features separate lounge and spa facilities for men and women that features spacious locker rooms, luxurious whirlpools, and eucalyptus and lavender infused steam rooms. Other lavish amenities include a vitality bar with tea elixirs, a delicious juice bar, and an enchanting spa garden with an outdoor fireplace and seasonal herb wall. Every element of Drift was thoughtfully designed to create a coastal sanctuary that engages all five senses for the ultimate spa experience.

“Drift offers guests a next-level spa experience, blending all natural elements that will elevate your senses and encourage deep relaxation. Every step of your journey with us – from the pre-treatment seashell release that carries your worries out to sea to the healing Himalayan Salt Stone Sauna – takes you one step closer to calming the mind, body and soul.” – Jennifer Reich, Spa Director

Signature treatments at the new Drift Spa include the Drift for Two couples massage with a Coastal Foot Bath, Himalayan Salt Stone Massage and the Vitamin Sea Brightening Facial. Professional treatment lines used at the spa include Naturopathica, Elemis, emerginC Scientific Organics, and Spa Ritual. For a complete list of spa treatments available and to book a spa appointment, please go HERE. Drift is the latest addition at the resort, which opened the brand-new, nine-story Twin Dolphin Tower earlier this year. The “suite centric” tower features luxurious appointments, private furnished balconies with gorgeous ocean views, Hilton’s exclusive Serenity Bedding Collection, and pet-friendly rooms and amenities. The new Twin Dolphin Tower connects the current 285-room Huntington Tower, further solidifying the resort’s place as an iconic oceanfront fixture in Huntington Beach.

In addition to the Twin Dolphin Tower, the lobby/check-in area, fitness center, and all public spaces underwent a full makeover. The new pool area, known as Driftwood Beach Club, is a family-friendly oasis that features waterslides, private cabanas and fire pits. Finally, The Boardwalk, a new casual three-meal restaurant was added where guests can enjoy full ocean views as well as The Dock Bar – a great place to grab a cocktail or relaxing meal after a day at the beach.

For more info about The Waterfront Beach Resort, please go HERE. .

About The Waterfront Beach Resort
The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, features a 285-room and suite Huntington Tower and 152 all-suite Twin Dolphin Tower, and is an exquisite AAA Four Diamond property that overlooks 10 miles of pristine coastline with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The newly renovated oceanfront resort is home to Drift a Waterfront Spa, a full-service coastal spa; The Boardwalk Restaurant and The Dock Bar, offering one of the area’s best ocean view dining experiences; and Offshore 9, an exclusive rooftop lounge and dining experience that features sweeping, unobstructed ocean views. Guests can also enjoy a family-friendly tropical pool with waterslides, private cabanas, fire pits, a complimentary fitness center, and a variety of beach services and activities via Waterfront Adventures situated right on the sand just steps from the resort. The Waterfront Beach Resort is located at 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, Calif. For reservations, call (714) 745-8000 or visit http://www.waterfrontresort.com for more information.

Images are property of The Waterfront Beach Resort and used with permission.

Ring in the New Year at John’s Incredible Pizza Company With NYE Celebration Packages

December 17, 2018 / Entertainment, Food, SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
If you’re looking for a fun place to celebrate with your family this New Year’s Eve, why not consider ringing in the new year at John’s Incredible Pizza Company? This year, they’re celebrating with special hours and celebration packages and each John’s location will be open from 7:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. on December 31, 2018. This years celebration will feature one-night-only packages along with ball drop viewings, photo opportunities with IncrediBear, plus beer, wine and margaritas for adults..John’s Incredible Pizza Company combines a made-from-scratch All You Can Eat buffet with a vibrant Fun World entertainment area. The indoor facilities range in size from 30,000 to 60,000 square feet and are open year-round. Each location showcases a mix of traditional family-style items, innovative and fun food choices along with healthy alternatives all prepared onsite from fresh ingredients including:

Ten Signature and seasonal pizzas include John’s Spicy Peanut Butter Pepperoni, Buffalo Chicken, and Garlic Pesto.
A custom pasta bar features a variety of pastas, 8 homemade sauces, and vegetable varieties to create a pasta masterpiece
A variety of soups and a 40+ item salad bar
An assortment of homemade desserts.

Each John’s location include Fun World, a large entertainment area offering a variety of rides, redemption games, video games, and other attractions. John’s mascot IncrediBear makes special appearances at birthday parties, special events and more.2019 New Year’s Eve Packages at John’s Incredible Pizza Company
Celebration Package – priced at $19.99 and includes:

Buffet + Beverage
Unlimited Rides
75 Fun World Credits ($18.75 value!)
New Year’s Accessories including a Hat, Glow Necklace and Blowout

Premium Package – priced at $29.99 and includes:

Buffet + Beverage
Unlimited Rides
200 Fun World Credits ($50 value)
New Year’s Accessories: Hat, Glow Necklace and Blowout

John’s Incredible Pizza Company is located throughout California, Nevada and Oregon and their locations include:

14766 Bear Valley Rd. Victorville, CA 92395
3709 Rosedale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93308
7095 N. Cedar Fresno, CA 93720
2225 Plaza Pky. Modesto, CA 95350
5280 Arrow Hwy. Montclair, CA 91763
384 N. Sunrise Ave. Roseville, CA 95661
6187 Valley Springs Pky. Riverside, CA 92507
8601 On The Mall, Buena Park, CA 90620
3010 Plaza Bonita Rd. National City, CA 91950
9180 SW Hall Boulevard, Beaverton, OR 97223
3700 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89119
440 Newpark Mall Rd, Newark, CA 94560
1025 Westminster Mall, Westminster, CA 92683

Tickets for New Year’s Eve at Incredible John’s Pizza can be purchased in advance at JohnsPizza.com/NYE. To get priority admission and 20 more Fun World Credits, pre-purchase your tickets for NYE by December 26!

I’m also hosting a giveaway for one (1) of my readers to win a family 4-pack of tickets to John’s Incredible Pizza Company. The tickets are good for the all-you-can-eat-buffet and beverages and can be used at any of the locations. To enter my giveaway, just fill out the Rafflecopter below. Giveaway is open through midnight on 1/3/19. Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond. Winner will be mailed vouchers in the mail. Good luck, everyone! Happy Holidays!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Some images and logo are property of John’s Incredible Pizza Company and used with permission.

Take the Family to See Mary Poppins Returns at El Capitan Theatre

December 16, 2018 / Disney Movies, Entertainment, Los Angeles, Movies

This is not a sponsored post. all opinions are my own.

Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theatre will present a special engagement of Disney’s MARY POPPINS RETURNS from December 19 to January 13, shown in brilliant Dolby Vision^TMLaser Projection & Dolby Atmos® Sound Technology. El Capitan Guests will step into Cherry Tree Lane as they enter the theatre. A holiday experience for the whole family featuring costumes from the movie, interactive Cherry Tree Lane photo ops & the debut of the all-new El Capitan Theatre curtain show with a dazzling crystal curtain!
Disney’s MARY POPPINS RETURNS is an all-new sequel with a fresh sensibility that celebrates the spirit of the original. Mary Poppins is back to help the next generation of the Banks family find the joy and wonder missing in their lives. Emily Blunt (“The Girl on the Train,” “Into the Woods”) stars as the practically-perfect nanny with unique magical skills who can turn any task into an unforgettable, fantastic adventure and Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”) plays her friend Jack, an optimistic street lamplighter who helps bring light—and life—to the streets of London. Check out the official trailer:

“We are thrilled to offer an unforgettable holiday experience for the whole family with our special engagement of Disney’s MARY POPPINS RETURNS. Guests will be transported to the magical world of Cherry Tree Lane the moment they step into The El Capitan Theatre – it will be a you are there experience – and Guests can also view and admire costumes from the film before and after every screening.” – Ed Collins, General Manager of The El Capitan Theatre

Be among the first to see MARY POPPINS RETURNS at El Capitan on Tuesday, December 18 at 7:00pm (Doors will open at 6:00PM). Tickets to The Special Opening Night at $35 include a Reserved Seat, Collectible Umbrella Popcorn Container with one refill, 20 oz Bottled Drink, Kite, and limited edition exclusive artwork poster, collectible gold heart Variety Charity pin, & movie soundtrack download, and can be purchased HERE.

Regular showtimes at El Capitan for Disney’s MARY POPPINS RETURNS will take place from December 19 to January 13 daily 9:30AM, 12:55PM, 4:20PM, 7:45PM & 10:55PM (10:55PM on Opening Weekend and Fridays and Saturdays following). Showtimes and dates are subject to change. Tickets are now on sale at http://www.elcapitantickets.com, by calling 1-800-DISNEY6 and at The El Capitan Theatre box office.
Special group rates for Disney’s MARY POPPINS RETURNS of $12 for parties of 20 or more are available by calling 1-818-845-3110.

HARD ROCK CAFÉ MOVIE & MEAL PACKAGE: $40.00 per person. Each ticket package includes: reserved seat (no concessions) to see the movie at The El Capitan Theatre, and a meal at Hard Rock Café. Reservations are required in advance (tickets must be booked no later than 24 hrs business days). This offering is available for all showtimes December 19, 2018 – January 13, 2019. Guests will choose one entrée from special Hard Rock Cafe menu at the time of their seating. Tax & gratuity included. Does not include alcohol – guests can purchase and pay on their own.Join El Capitan Theatre for Tiny Tot Tuesday: The El Capitan Theatre will also host a very special Tiny Tot Tuesday for the first show every Tuesday during the run of Disney’s MARY POPPINS RETURNS. During these special screenings, parents and small children may enjoy the movie in a tot-friendly way—with lights dimmed rather than out and reduced sound levels. It’s such a great option to have for going to a movie.

For more information about El Capitan Theatre please visit their site HERE, Join in on social by using and following along with #ElCapitanTheatre.

Images and logos are property of El Capitan Theatre and used with permission. Poster and trailer are property of Walt Disney Studios and used with permission.

Tickets Now on Sale For All-New Pasadena Tournament of Roses® SIP & SAVOR Event

December 13, 2018 / SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

A new end-of-year celebration debuts with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses® SIP & SAVOR. On the event menu is an impressive array of offerings for all ages from many of Southern California’s favorite eateries and culinary brands, along with wines and craft brews from throughout the Golden State, plus an exciting line-up of entertainment and up-close viewing of Rose Parade® float decorating.
The event takes over the Rosemont Pavilion/Jackie Robinson Memorial Field near the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena from December 28-30 (Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.). Various ticket prices and packages are available, ranging from general admission of $15 to a deluxe VIP package of $150, and can be purchased in-person at the event or online at sipandsavorpasadena.com.As part of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses SIP & SAVOR experience, guests can visit the Rosemont Pavilion, a workshop of color, imagination, and ingenuity. Inside guests will see hundreds of skilled volunteers painstakingly hand-applying millions of florals to incredibly designed Rose Parade floats. With wide-eyed wonder, guests can personally witness the parade floats slowly taking shape.

“Our entire team is immensely proud to partner with the Tournament of Roses to take the Rose Parade experience to a whole new level. As the producers of SIP & SAVOR, it’s a terrific opportunity for us to take an iconic event like the Rose Parade and build upon the success of this historic brand with this new and exciting event”, Craig Bugajski, CEO of Artistic Entertainment Services

The Pasadena Tournament of Roses SIP & SAVOR is also a destination for guests seeking great music and entertainment. The event boasts a great line-up of entertainment options for the whole family. The main stage will play host to a variety of bands ranging from classic 80s, hip-swinging rockabilly, top hits of today, plus daytime performances by the GRAMMY® Award-winning, Mariachi Divas.For more information about the Tournament of Roses SIP & SAVOR inaugural event, please visit sipandsavorpasadena.com.

Join in on the conversation on social by following and using #SipNSavorPasadena.

Images, renderings and logos are property of Sip and Save and used with permission.

Last Minute Gift-Giving Ideas from Universal Studios Hollywood

December 11, 2018 / Lifestyle, SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

Christmas is just around the corner! If you’re still looking for some great last-minute gifts for people on your list, why not consider giving a gift inspired by Universal Studios Hollywood? Universal Studios Hollywood is helping to take the guesswork out by assembling a list of some popular gift giving items and stocking stuffers from such fan favorites as The Grinch, Harry Potter, Minions, Jurassic Park and Hello Kitty and friends.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Here’s a short list of some fun, inspirational items.

For the naughty on the list, Illumination Entertainment and Universal Pictures’ Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch movie takes center stage with an assortment of fun must-haves, including green faux-fur adorned hats, gloves and scarves as well as pajamas.
Magic is always in the air during the holidays, making treasures and treats from “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” some of the best gifts. From bespoke Christmas ornaments inspired by the Wizarding World to Honeydukes one-of-a-kind sweets, there is something for every Harry Potter fan this season. Other spellbinding collectibles that are sure to top any witch or wizard’s wish list include decorative Hogwarts castle snow globes, the Hogwarts crest and mascot ornaments representing each of the houses, as well as a collection of unique tree toppers and house pennant garland.
This year, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” is also introducing specialty gift wrapping that is inspired by packages delivered by the Owl Post in the Harry Potter film series.
A visit to the shops adjacent to the “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride and Super Silly Fun Land as well as the all-new Animation Studio Store offer a chockfull of Minions in an array of shapes and sizes as well Agnes’s all-time favorite, the fluffy Unicorn, available in a variety of huggable plush toys to wearable backpacks for back-to-school fun. For the more mischievous on the list, the iconic Zapper and Fart toys will make lasting memorable gifts.
The Animation Studio Store is also home to Hello Kitty with a variety of themed merchandise primed for holiday gift giving and stocking stuffers.
While the Jurassic era may have spanned time, millions of years ago, guests can keep the giant T. rex dinosaurs close at heart with popular Jurassic Park and Jurassic World t-shirts and hoodies, both in homage to the theme park’s iconic “Jurassic Park” thrill ride which closed earlier this year and in anticipation of its newest edition, the “Jurassic World” ride, opening in 2019.
For those on the list who have been extra good, an Annual Pass to Universal Studios Hollywood is the ultimate gift. For limitless fun all year long, along with a variety of discounts and perks to the theme park and CityWalk, a Platinum, Gold or Silver Annual Pass will make 2019 shine daily for friends and family.

As you can see, last minute shopping is made easy at Universal Studios Hollywood. While you’re there, check out the park’s annual holiday programs, including nightly snowfall during “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” plus the spectacular dazzling light projection transformation of HogwartsTM castle through “The Magic of Christmas at HogwartsTM Castle.” “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” takes place daily through January 6, 2019. The holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood is included in the price of theme park admission. More information is available at http://www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. As always, admission to Universal CityWalk is free.

Image is property of Universal Studios Hollywood and used with permission.