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“The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” All-New Ride Set to Open at Universal Studios Hollywood on March 27

/ LA Fun, SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Did you hear the exciting news from Universal Studios Hollywood? The All-New “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” ride will open on March 27, bringing an astounding 64 animated figures to this all-new tech-savvy ride based on Illumination’s blockbuster The Secret Life of Pets films, which answer the question, “What are your pets really doing when you’re not at home?”

The entertaining new ride features original voice talent from The Secret Life of Pets films who will unleash their animal instincts to reprise their roles for this exciting theme park attraction. The talent and their alter egos include Patton Oswalt as Max, Kevin Hart as Snowball, Eric Stonestreet as Duke, Jenny Slate as Gidget, Tiffany Haddish as Daisy, Lake Bell as Chloe, Dana Carvey as Pops, Chris Renaud as Norman, Hannibal Buress as Buddy, Bobby Moynihan as Mel, and Jessica DiCicco as Princess.

“The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” is a heartfelt experience that transforms guests into stray puppies as they journey to become loved and adopted. After all, adoption day is the ultimate rite of passage for every domesticated animal and, as such, the perfect theme of this engaging new ride as these beloved puppies find their forever homes.

Combining 64 technologically-advanced animated figures, “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” invites guests to meet some of their favorite characters from the movies, who themselves have transformed into dimensional beings. From blinking eyes to eye and eyebrow movements, from head tilts to head nods, from moving mouths to smiles, from ear curls to lip curls, from full torso twists to physically walking, the depth of mobility and function programmed within each of these loveable characters creates an experience unlike any other theme park ride.

With the addition of hyper-realistic media and projection mapping, this impressive new ride is designed to fully immerse guests in a dynamic New York City landscape. Seated within ride vehicles that resemble cardboard boxes—reminiscent of where Katie first finds her beloved Max as a puppy—guests will travel along a track towards the Pet Adoption event and the ultimate happy ending: forever homes.

The ride will feature state-of-the-art optical enhanced gesture-tracking technology, which helps to identify each guest as a unique stray puppy for the duration of the ride. With an option to be transformed into one of 15 stray puppies, guests will enjoy a unique experience each time they ride “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!”

Virtual Line technology is another component of the experience, designed to help guests maximize their leisure time at the theme park. Guests can access Virtual Line via the official Universal Studios Hollywood app, available for free in the App Store and on Google Play or they can visit the Virtual Line kiosk located in the New York City subway station, situated adjacent to the ride. Both provide guests with options to experience the ride based on the next available times and will be available to guests within the theme park as needed.

Virtual Line complements the ride’s non-traditional queue which invites guests to explore the area at their leisure and freely roam the ride’s corridors—reminiscent of Katie’s NYC apartment building—explore dachshund Buddy’s apartment, Snowball owner Molly’s living room as well as Max and Duke’s apartment, until they reach the ride’s boarding station.

“The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!” will be located on Pets Place, previously referred to as Baker Street, and adjacent to the popular “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” attractions. With the installation of store front facades, Pets Place will capture the charm of a busy New York City street, including an iconic NYC subway station, which serves as the in-park location for the Virtual Line. For more information, please visit http://www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.

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

All-new ‘Magic Happens’ Parade to Debut at Disneyland Resort 2/28 with Magical Moments from Beloved Disney and Pixar Stories

/ California, Disney, Disney, Disneyland Resort, Family Fun, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

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

Disneyland Resort will debut its all-new “Magic Happens” parade at Disneyland Park on Feb. 28, 2020. The incredible “Magic Happens” daytime spectacular celebrates the awe-inspiring moments of magic that are at the heart of so many Disney stories! This new parade, led by Mickey Mouse and his pals, celebrates moments of magic from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films as they are brought to life on a grand scale with stunning floats, artistic costumes and a surprising and energetic musical score combined with beloved Disney tunes.

“When you come to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, there are so many ways to
immerse yourself in our stories, but a parade is a unique experience because it’s the only way
for you, as the audience, to stay in one place and have so many stories, characters and magical
moments pass right in front of you. We’ve designed the ‘Magic Happens’ floats so that characters, scenes and surprises are revealed a little at a time, making each float a journey of discovery” – David Duffy, creative director for Disney Live Entertainment

“Magic Happens” includes something for everyone and will be enjoyed by guests of all ages.
This new parade features nine newly designed floats, highlighting magic from classic Walt
Disney Animation Studios tales such as “The Sword in the Stone,” “Cinderella” and “Sleeping
Beauty,” to more recent stories including “Frozen 2,” “Moana” and “The Princess and the Frog,”
as well as Disney and Pixar’s “Coco.” The new floats were created as pieces of moving art, with
their lines and aesthetic design working to tell a story along the parade route, while also evoking
a sense of magic.

In addition to the stunning floats, the parade route along Main Street, U.S.A., will be filled with
dynamic performers and more than two dozen Disney and Pixar characters. The parade’s
costume design draws inspiration directly from modern runways, making each costume look
fashion-forward, yet uniquely Disney. Many performers and characters in “Magic Happens” will
don all-new costumes, specifically made for this parade.
Watch this sneak peek of “Magic Happens”:

While the music and stories seen in “Magic Happens” are rooted in iconic Disney lore, the
soundtrack and choreography are heavily influenced by today’s pop culture designers, putting a
contemporary spin on the classic Disney hits. “Magic Happens” features an energetic musical
score and new songs, co-composed by singer-songwriter, Todrick Hall. “Magic Happens” is a whimsical and joyous procession that allows the Disney magic to shine through. The parade features distinct stories with a mix of characters, making it feel contemporary and classic, fun and regal, and surprising and familiar – all at the same time.
Highlights of the all-new “Magic Happens” parade include:

  • Mickey Mouse leads the way, gliding along on glistening swirls of magic emanating from
    a giant, iridescent magical hat. Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n
    Dale join in, dancing along with a group of eclectic and artsy performers representing
    stylized aspects of magic.
  • On her voyager canoe, Moana journeys forth on the crest of a towering wave, inspired
    by beautiful koa wood carvings, and inset with dazzling, animated glimpses into the
    magic the ocean holds. This is the first full-scale “Moana”-inspired float to be created for
    a Disney park.
  • Joining Moana on her journey is Maui, who travels along on his own magical piece of the
    islands with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua. Maui makes his official Disneyland Resort
    debut in “Magic Happens.”
  • Miguel appears in person for the first time, celebrating the magic that happens when he
    strums the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Disney and Pixar film “Coco.” This
    spectacular float connects the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead with a vibrant
    marigold bridge, and fantastical alebrije spirit animals join the procession, along with
    Miguel’s dog Danté. This is the first time the film “Coco” has inspired a float for a Disney
    Parks parade.
  • From “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa explore the mysteries of the Enchanted Forest
    protected by the Nokk, the mystical water spirit, as their friends Kristoff, Sven and Olaf
    tag along.

The regal grand finale of “Magic Happens” celebrates magical moments from several
classic Disney stories. The start of the finale brings together a collection of many iconic
magical characters, including Genie, Aladdin, Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, Blue Fairy,
Pinocchio and Fairy Godmother. These characters lead the way as more floats are
introduced, each highlighting the moments of magic that changed the characters’ lives.

  • From “Cinderella,” guests watch the moment of “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo” as
    Cinderella is seen inside a grand pumpkin, just as it magically transforms into a
    glistening carriage to whisk her off to the ball.
  • From “The Sword in the Stone,” Merlin wisely leads the way for young Arthur,
    who finds the magic within himself as he pulls the sword from the stone, claiming
    his place upon the throne.
  • Tiana and Naveen from “The Princess and the Frog” are seen amidst a swirl of
    golden flowers where they share a kiss, completing their transformation back into
    human forms.
  • The happily-ever-after scene from “Sleeping Beauty” features the three good
    fairies and Princess Aurora, whose gown shimmers between hues of pink and
    blue.

Spring is a great time to visit the Disneyland Resort and experience the new “Magic Happens” parade, as the resort is offering special, limited-time ticket and hotel offers. Kids everywhere* along with Southern California residents** may visit the theme parks for as low as $67 per person, per day with 3-day, 1-park per day tickets through May 21, 2020, which you can read more about HERE.Are you as excited as I am about the debut of the all-new “Magic Happens” parade  at Disneyland Resort? Tell me about your plans to visit and experience it.

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

Celebrate Lunar New Year and the “Year of the Rat” at Universal Studios Hollywood Starting Jan. 23

/ Family Fun, Los Angeles, SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 
Universal Studios Hollywood ushers in the “Year of the Rat”,  the first of the Chinese zodiac animals, as the theme park celebrates with the Lunar New Year event from Thursday, January 23 through Sunday, February 9. Lunar New Year is included in the price of admission to the theme park.

This spectacular themed Lunar New Year event will take place within Universal Plaza, located at the heart of the theme park. Under a curtain of traditional red Chinese lanterns and stunning plum blossom Wishing Trees, the festivities will come to life as guests discover the 12 zodiac animal signs accompanied by their symbolic attributes. Guests with birthday years that correspond with the “Year of the Rat” are said to be intelligent, witty and charming.

The immersive event will feature Po and Tigress from the thrilling “Kung Fu Panda Adventure” attraction who will greet guests and pose for engaging photos; Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop returns by popular demand to serve up delicious culture-themed food, and Mr. Ping himself will be on hand to interact with guests and take memorable souvenir photos. Guests can learn how to draw Po and take home the drawing as a keepsake memento and, on select days, community cultural performances featuring traditional lion dances will round out the program.

Beloved global pop icon Hello Kitty, created by the lifestyle brand Sanrio, further complements this year’s Lunar New Year celebration when she steps out in style wearing her signature red bow and specially designed Lunar New Year attire. Hello Kitty will be available to meet guests at the Hello Kitty Shop located within the Animation Studio Store.

Keeping with Universal Studios Hollywood’s Lunar New Year tradition, MEGATRON from the TRANSFORMERS franchise will be speaking Mandarin while interacting with guests at the entry of the festivities. The imposing robot leader of the DECEPTICONS will engage attendees in real-time conversation reflective of his persona and will be sure to entertain TRANSFORMERS fans visiting the park. MEGATRON is one of the stars of Universal Studios Hollywood’s thrill ride, “Transformers™: The Ride-3D.”

Illumination Entertainment’s Minions from the theme park’s popular Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride will add to the festivities, entertaining guests in their brightly colored traditional Lunar New Year attire.

The world-famous Studio Tour is available in Mandarin at select times throughout the day. Featuring expertly-trained Mandarin-speaking tour guides, the experience provides insight into the world of movie-making magic as guests enjoy behind-the-scenes access to one of the largest production studios in the world. In-language park maps are also available for guests.

Guests can continue their Lunar New Year celebration at Universal CityWalk’s Dongpo Kitchen restaurant which features upscale and modern Sichuan cuisine. Inspired by China’s premier restaurant Meizhou Dongpo, Dongpo Kitchen offers the comforts of a casual dining environment with both indoor and al fresco seating and caters to an eclectic palate with a variety of signature dishes.

For more information, please visit HERE. Mandarin-speaking guests can learn more about the Lunar New Year event HERE.
Some images and video are property of Universal Studios Hollywood and used with permission. 

Disneyland Resort Announces Limited-Time Ticket Offers for Kids Everywhere and SoCal Residents

/ California, Disney, Disney, Disney, Disneyland Resort, Family Fun, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

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

It’s back! Once again, for a limited time, Southern California residents can visit the Disneyland Resort theme parks for $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket. (Park Hopper options also are available.) The tickets are available for purchase Jan. 7 through May 18, 2020.

Eligible guests may purchase up to five tickets per person, per day, and prices are the same for adults and children. This special ticket also includes one Magic Morning, which gives admission to select attractions on select days at Disneyland park one hour before the park opens to the general public. Southern California residents may redeem their tickets on any three separate days through May 21, 2020. These special tickets may be purchased HERE or through a travel agent.

Special Ticket Offer for Kids Everywhere
For families visiting from outside of Southern California, there’s a special value for kids. For a limited time, guests can save on Disneyland Resort park tickets for children ages 3 to 9 for $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket. Park Hopper options also are available. The tickets are available for purchase Jan. 7 through May 18, 2020. Guests may purchase up to eight tickets per person, per day. This special ticket also includes one Magic Morning, which gives admission into select attractions on select days at Disneyland park one hour before the park opens to the general public. This three-day ticket expires 13 days after first use or on May 21, 2020, whichever occurs first. Purchase these special tickets may be purchased HERE or through a travel agent. Do YOU have a visit planned soon to the Disneyland Resort? If not, why not plan one around these great offers?

*Characters image property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Disneyland Resort’s Lunar New Year Celebration: the Year of the Mouse January 17 to February 9, 2020.

/ California, Disney, Disneyland Resort, Family Fun, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

This is not a sponsored post All opinions are my own. 
This Lunar New Year, Disneyland Resort will celebrate “the Year of the Mouse” at Disney California Adventure Park from January 17 through February 9, 2020. The 24 day, multicultural celebration, will have exciting live entertainment and musical performances, including “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” and the return of the heartwarming “Hurry Home – Lunar New Year Celebration” prior to the “World of Color” nighttime spectacular, for guests to enjoy.This unique Lunar New Year celebration comes alive with a touch of Disney magic as transformative Asian celebrations dedicate the new year. Guests will experience inspired food, music and entertainment with loved ones as they celebrate the Year of the Mouse together. Lunar New Year, traditionally celebrated within Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures, celebrates the celestial journey of the sun and the moon on their journey towards another year. Highlights of the Lunar New Year celebration this year at Disney California Adventure include:

  • “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” is a celebratory parade led by Mulan that honors Lunar New Year and dedicates the new year’s blessings to family and friendship. As a special treat for the Year of the Mouse, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse join the procession in new celebration attire, along with Goofy in his “god of Good Fortune” attire and Chip ‘n’ Dale in their red vests. Talented performers bring dance, martial arts and drumming to enhance the beautifully colorful procession. “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” will run several times, daily.
  • “Hurry Home – Lunar New Year Celebration”, is a heartwarming nighttime water show at Paradise Bay prior to “World of Color” which tells the tale of a little lantern’s quest to reunite with family for the annual celebration of good luck and fortune. Guests will be delighted to see Mulan as a part of the little lantern’s journey.
  • Beloved characters Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will don new festive Lunar New Year attire this year as they greet guests at Paradise Gardens. Other characters guests may find in this area include Mulan, Pluto, and the Three Little Pigs who also join in the Lunar New Year celebration.
  • Guests will enjoy four festive marketplaces to experience delightful food and beverages inspired by Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures, including the new smoked beef bulgogi short rib and the peach sojito, as well as many other new and returning favorites. The popular Sip and Savor pass* is available for any guest to purchase if they wish to get the best value as they taste their way through the festive Asian marketplaces, Longevity Noodle Co., Lucky 8 Lantern, Prosperity Bao & Buns and Red Dragon Spice Traders.  A special Lunar New Year menu at Paradise Garden Grill offers items inspired by traditional Asian fare, plus a Festival Cart inside Paradise Gardens and special food options at Lucky Fortune Cookery in Pacific Wharf.
  • Live, daily performances by authentic Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese dancers and musicians will take place throughout Paradise Gardens Park.
  • Enjoy areas for guests to try complimentary arts and crafts. One area features a complimentary dragon’s pearl coloring craft, and another features Chinese calligraphy with local artisans. Plus, new face painting opportunities have been added to the Lunar New Year celebration, available for purchase.
  • A Lucky Wishing Wall, located in Paradise Gardens, is where guests may write down wishes and tie them to the wall in hopes for a prosperous future.
  • The educational art walls provide guests with information about the festival, including fun details such as “What Year Are You?” as well as the unique story of Lunar New Year in each culture that celebrates the sun and moon festival.
  • Inspiring Lunar New Year décor symbolizes good luck, fortune and happiness in bold red and brilliant gold. Guests will see ornamental lanterns and banners wishing guests a Happy Lunar New Year in English, Chinese, Korean and New Lunar New Year merchandise inspired by different cultures of East Asia will be available for purchase. This year, guests will find all-new spirit jerseys, fun bobble-head figures with Chip and Dale, a traditional red envelope set, themed Minnie Mouse ear headbands and more.

In addition, the Disneyland Resort is offering special hotel offers during the Lunar New Year celebration, making this an ideal time for guests to visit Disney California Adventure. Guests may find more information at Disneyland.com.

*Sip and Savor Pass entitlements may only be redeemed during regular Lunar New Year celebration operating hours, and the Pass expires on February 9, 2020. Each coupon may be redeemed for one (1) food or nonalcoholic beverage item at a participating Marketplace location. Excludes novelties including souvenir tumblers. No discounts apply. Nonrefundable, nontransferable, may not be redeemed for cash (in whole or in part), no substitutions and no change given. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required.

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

Celebrate the Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood

/ SoCal Fun

I was invited to spend a day in the park with my family guests of Universal Studios Hollywood. All opinions are my own. 

I get excited about all things holiday-related, so when our family was invited to spend a day out at Universal Studios Hollywood to experience their take on the holidays, I couldn’t wait. As you walk up to the front of the park, you can see that the whimsical spirit of the holidays has transformed it into a winter wonderland, bringing merriment and cheer to all who visit from now through Sunday, December 29, 2019 and it’s included in the price of your park ticket.

Celebrate Grinchmas in Who-ville
I was most excited to stop by Who-ville for Grinchmas™ first. I grew up loving Dr. Seuss books and one of my favorites to read as a child was “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”. Well, I was amazed when I first walked into the area and spotted the giant, the topsy-turvy “Wholiday” tree! Oh my goodness! It’s so beautiful.

Twisting and turning over 55 feet in height, the tree is adorned with hundreds of ornaments and thousands of white and multi-colored LED lights, which are choreographed to music, when it’s lit up.

In Who-ville, there’s an area set up for guests to write a letter to Mr. Grinch. You can “grow your heart 3 sizes” by writing to him & sharing about 3 good deeds you’ve done recently.  After you finish your postcard, you can drop it into the Who-ville Post Box, too! For every postcard sent, Universal Studios Hollywood’s Discover a Star Foundation will make a donation to School on Wheels.

If you’re hungry while you’re visiting Who-ville, you’ll find plenty of Who-bilicious treats and Wholiday confections. I couldn’t resist taking a few of them home, too. How cute are these Grinch cotton candy bags and this giant Grinch donut?

While you’re in Who-ville, you can meet and take a photo with The Grinch, himself. Just across the way from him, you can also visit “Max” and get a picture taken with Who-ville’s favorite furry friend!

Once nightfall hits, you can attend one of the nightly “Wholiday” tree lightings. (weather permitting) I especially loved the finale, which was accompanied by a snowfall flurry, bringing the story to life! It’s a really special experience and will definitely get you in the holiday spirit!

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
As night falls on Hogsmeade village, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle” illuminates Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with colorful imagery and impressive dimensional animations that dance across Hogwarts castle in tandem to a musical arrangement from the Harry Potter movies.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” adds holiday warmth and cheer to this beloved land as the quaint town of Hogsmeade village is enchanted with seasonal décor uniquely themed to each of the individual storefronts and a dazzling light projection spectacular brings the iconic Hogwarts™ castle to life. Enjoy musical performances from the a cappella Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant throaty frogs, entertain guests with their harmonized holiday themed songs and fill the land with holiday cheer. Holiday-themed fare and hot Butterbeer further complement the overall experience.

Other Merriment in the Park 
Spirited holiday décor and festive whimsy is also present throughout the theme park, bringing a crew of very merry and mischievous Minions to “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” to gleefully spread Christmas cheer to visitors of all ages.

Know Before You Go

  • Grab a park map as you enter the front gate. Inside you’ll find attraction and showtime information, food choices and locations and
  • I highly recommend dressing in layers for your visit, as Southern California weather often goes from cool to warm (or hot) this time of year, but then back to cool by nightfall. You’ll want to bring along a jacket if you’re planning to stay for Who-ville Tree Lighting and Hogwarts
  • If you’re planning to watch one of the Who-liday Tree LIghtings or the nighttime spectacular at Hogwarts, get there early for best spots.
  • Consider purchasing your tickets online before your visit to save time waiting in line at the ticket booth. You can save some money this way, too!
  • If you’re looking for a sit down meal, check out the restaurants located in Universal CityWalk, which is adjacent to the park, and call ahead in the morning to book a reservation that day. It was so easy for us to leave the park to go eat and then return afterwards, as it’s a very short walk.

Holiday Offerings in Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk’s spectacular 40-foot tall Christmas tree will once again glisten with 200,000 LED icicles choreographed to the lights and sounds of the season as the magic of the holidays comes to life in the “5 Towers” outdoor plaza along with a slate of free concert performances and an eclectic ensemble of talented street performers.

CityWalk’s iconic, dancing water fountain with over 230 individual power jets will continue to mesmerize guests when it projects streams of choreographed water into the air complemented by red and green LED lights and an array of holiday-themed music.

Holiday Gift Idea: a 2020 Universal Studios Season Pass
With so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood, the California Neighbor Pass makes the perfect holiday gift, providing guests with the opportunity to experience 175 days of fun for $149 when purchased online. For more information about passes and to see all of the ones they offer, please visit http://www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more details. Blackout dates and restrictions apply.

 

All-New “Magic Happens” Parade Will Debut at Disneyland Park on February 28, 2020

/ Uncategorized

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

Any day an all-new parade is announced is an extra exciting day!Jan.17. Also at
Disneyland, the “Magic Happens” parade debuts on Feb. 28 with multiple floats including one
inspired by the blockbuster film, “Frozen 2,” and a “Moana” sequence that includes Moana on
her voyager canoe, followed by her pet pig, Pua, and legendary demigod, Maui, on his own
magical island.

The all-new “Magic Happens” parade will come to life for guests at Disneyland, beginning Feb.
28, 2020. “Magic Happens” will feature an energetic musical score and a new song, cocomposed by singer-songwriter Todrick Hall. Celebrating awe-inspiring moments of magic that are at the heart of so many Disney stories, this new daytime parade will feature stunning floats, beautiful costumes, and beloved Disney characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Frozen 2” and “Moana,” plus “Coco,” “Sleeping Beauty” and more, all led by Mickey Mouse and his pals.Traveling down Main Street, U.S.A., “Magic Happens” will remind guests they don’t need wings
to fly, that shooting stars were made to wish upon, and that magic doesn’t stop at midnight.
Highlights of the parade include:

  • From “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa explore the mysteries of an enchanted forest protected
    by Nokk, the mystical water spirit, as their friends Kristoff, Sven and Olaf tag along.
  • On her voyager canoe, Moana journeys forth on the crest of a towering wave, inspired
    by beautiful koa wood carvings, and inset with dazzling, animated glimpses into the
    magic the ocean holds.
  • Guiding Moana on her journey is Maui, who travels along on his own magical piece of
    the islands with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua.
  • Miguel appears in person for the first time, celebrating the magic that happens when he
    strums the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Disney and Pixar film “Coco.” This
    spectacular float bridges the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead with vibrant
    marigolds, and fantastical alebrije spirit animals join the procession, along with Miguel’s
    dog Danté.
Set to debut Feb. 28, 2020, at Disneyland Park in California, the new “Magic Happens” parade will come to life with an energetic musical score and a new song co-composed by singer-songwriter Todrick Hall. The parade will feature stunning floats, beautiful costumes, and beloved Disney characters. Depicted in this image, guiding Moana on her journey is Maui, who travels along on his own magical piece of the islands with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua. (Disney)

The regal grand finale of “Magic Happens” celebrates magical moments from several
classic Disney stories, including the happily-ever-after scene from “Sleeping Beauty”
with a trio of fairies and Princess Aurora’s gown shimmering between hues of pink and
blue.

For more information, including showtimes and tickets, please visit https://disneyland.disney.go.com/

Images are property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Build-A-Bear Launches New Subscription Box: A New Surprise Delivery Every Season

/ Lifestyle

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 
Build-A-Bear is now bringing exclusive furry friends and Build-A-Bear-themed items to doorsteps as a new seasonal subscription box. The Cubscription Box by ​Build-A-Bear ships quarterly with an assortment of exclusive products that are not available anywhere else. Each box contains a 12-inch exclusive bear and 5-8 items that will have cubscribers twinning with their new best friend. The Build-A-Bear-themed items include kids’ apparel, accessories, stationery, and more!Items in the Cubscription Box by Build-A-Bear are made by the subscription box experts at CultureFly, who have developed a mix of fun, functional products and uniquely Build-A-Bear. Each box is produced in limited quantities exclusively for subscribers, or Cubscribers.
Build-A-Bear is excited to reveal the adorable, exclusive Build-A-Bear furry friend and coordinating kids’ apparel, accessories, and more in the Winter 2019 Cubscription box. The inaugural Cubscription Box by ​Build-A-Bear for Winter 2019 is themed “Magical Winter.” Subscriptions are open with the first box shipping in early December 2019 just in time for the holidays. Subscriptions are $29.99 per box. Those who subscribe to an annual plan will get a special FREE Birthday Box that will be delivered just before the subscriber’s birthday.

Subscriptions are open now at Cubscription.com. There is a limited supply so make sure to sign up for yours right away!

Images are property of Build a Bear Workshop and used with permission. 

Lazy Dog Restaurant’s Partnership with Habitat for Humanity This Holiday Season

/ Food, Lifestyle

I was invited to dine as a guest at Lazy Dog Cafe in exchange for this  post. All opinions are my own. 

This holiday season, Lazy Dog Restaurant is partnering with Habitat for Humanity on a very special project, in hopes of making the season a little bit brighter for those in need. From now through December 31, you can stop by your nearest Lazy Dog location and ask for one of their festive gingerbread house kits, which can be built at at the table, while you enjoy your meal. This adorable activity is just $5.95 and the best part is that 100% of net proceeds will go toward building homes in the Habitat for Humanity communities.Every day, Habitat for Humanity strives to help folks build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. Assisting families in communities across the U.S. who are in need of decent places to live, Habitat for Humanity helps put a roof over their heads and give them a home for these and all the other holidays. Santa Claus himself couldn’t imagine a better gift.

“For me and my family, the best part about this time of year is being able to slow down and spend time around the table. At Lazy Dog, we’d love nothing more than to be a place where you and your family can do the same.” – founder and CEO Chris Simms said while announcing the partnership with Habitat.

Of course these little gingerbread houses are fun to build and delicious to eat afterwards (or as you build them) but they’ll also make you feel content knowing you’re doing it for a good cause.

For more information about the partnership between Lazy Dog Restaurant and Habitat for Humanity, and to find the Lazy Dog Restaurant nearest you, please visit HERE.

Some images are property of Lazy Dog and borrowed with permission.