Disney News Blog

27 October 2009

Photo © Disney

New Entertainment, Cherished Favorites Bring Holidays to Life

ANAHEIM, Calif. – When it comes to celebrating the magic and sparkle of the holidays with friends and loved ones, there’s no place like the Disneyland Resort where, from Nov. 13 through Jan. 3, 2010, the holidays will shine more brightly than ever.

Guests will enjoy the return of the Disneyland Resort’s most popular offerings, including special holiday versions of “it’s a small world” and Haunted Mansion, along with colorful holiday décor and a nightly snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A.

Other holiday highlights at Disneyland will include the traditional snowdrifts and icicles adorning Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle. After dark a sensational holiday lighting and special effects show will carry the magic of the holidays from the castle all the way to the Christmas tree in Town Square. The Disneyland Christmas tree is specially designed to present a nightly holiday light show like no other with more than 62,000 energy-efficient LED lights.

The Sleeping Beauty Winter Castle presentation unfolds throughout the evening in three acts, each of them featuring a touch of winter snow on Main Street, U.S.A. The finale of the show includes the legendary “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks show, which takes guests on a journey of sights and sounds of the season and ends with a touching rendition of “White Christmas” along with a climactic snowfall swirling down on Main Street, U.S.A., “it’s a small world” Mall and New Orleans Square.

Themed entertainment, sparkling decorations and tasty treats add festive warmth to holiday fun at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. Guests will also be able to book guided holiday tours that provide entry into the “it’s a small world” holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, reserved seating for the Disneyland “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a keepsake remembrance, and entertaining information about the history behind Disneyland holiday traditions. For information and reservations guests can visit Disneyland City Hall or call 714/781-4400.

Other returning holiday favorites at Disneyland park include:

• “it’s a small world” holiday transforms “it’s a small world” into a worldwide celebration of the season, boasting more than 300,000 glittering lights on its facade.
• Haunted Mansion Holiday presents a madcap celebration as the traditions of Halloween and Christmas collide. The ghoulish but well-meaning Jack Skellington from the film “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” has come to the Haunted Mansion to transform it with his skewed vision of the holidays.
• “A Christmas Fantasy” parade will be presented daily, Nov. 13 through Jan. 3, on Main Street, U.S.A. This ever-popular procession depicts an enchanting collection of holiday scenes, music and a cast of Disney characters and performers in yuletide vignettes.
• Santa Claus and his reindeer will return to greet Disneyland guests in Frontierland at Big Thunder Ranch. Kids and their families will chat with St. Nick and see real reindeer grazing in a corral

Disney’s California Adventure celebrates the season with fanciful park-wide decorations and lively entertainment.

• Guests approaching the park will immediately get in the holiday mood as they encounter the iconic “CALIFORNIA” letters transformed to appear as swirling red and white peppermint sticks.
• “a bug’s land” transforms as Flik and his bug buddies spread giant Christmas lights and oversized ornaments throughout their realm.
• The holiday scene along the Paradise Bay boardwalk includes a beautifully decorated Christmas tree and lampposts decorated with seasonal wreaths.
• The ever-popular “Disney’s Electrical Parade” will be presented nightly at the height of the holiday season, Dec. 18 through Jan. 3, 2010.

• “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!,” which begins daily performances Nov. 6 in New Orleans Square in Disneyland, will be a rousing, colorful show with a jazz-filled holiday celebration vibe. It will begin as guests are invited to join a Mardi Gras-style cavalcade in New Orleans Square. The cavalcade will lead guests to the waterfront where Princess Tiana and other “Princess and the Frog” characters will board the Mark Twain Riverboat. The boat will then take to the river where Tiana and company will entertain guests on shore with a musical show including songs from the motion picture.
• In Disney’s California Adventure, the “Pixar Play Parade” is complemented by performances of the energetic, traveling rock and dance concert show, “High School Musical 3: Senior Year-Right Here! Right Now!”
• In Blue Sky Cellar at Golden Vine Winery, the Imagineers’ workshop offers guests a preview of new attractions coming to Disney’s California Adventure over the next few years.
• Guests along Paradise Pier in Disney’s California Adventure will also enjoy such new and refreshed attractions as Toy Story Mania!, Mickey’s Fun Wheel and the Games of the Boardwalk.
• At Disneyland in December, guests will explore the newly relocated Disney Gallery on Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A. Next door, The Disneyland Story featuring Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln is scheduled to reopen in late December with new technology and an enhanced presentation.

The Downtown Disney district and the Disneyland Resort hotels will join in the merriment with twinkling lights and ornaments, special entertainment and holiday dining. Expanded hours at both Disneyland Resort theme parks will extend the holiday fun. For more information about holidays at the Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com/holidays.

ANAHEIM, Calif., Oct. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- George Kalogridis, a 38-year Disney veteran and former Disneyland executive, has been named president of the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Kalogridis most recently served as chief operating officer for Disneyland Resort Paris, where he was responsible for leading the operations team and overseeing the highly successful 15th anniversary celebration of the resort.

Kalogridis, 55, will report to Al Weiss, president of Worldwide Operations for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. He replaces Ed Grier, who is retiring from the company.

"George is a proven strategic thinker whose operational expertise and strong leadership skills will serve him well in leading the Disneyland Resort," said Weiss. "We are excited to welcome him back to California and look forward to his leadership as we continue to expand and grow this beloved place."

From 2000 to 2002, Kalogridis served as senior vice president of Resort Operations for the Disneyland Resort, where he played a significant role in the first expansion of the resort - the opening of Disney's California Adventure park and Downtown Disney. In addition, he was responsible for the daily operations of both theme parks and three hotels, as well as Downtown Disney.

"I am thrilled to be returning to Disneyland, particularly during this exciting time of significant expansion," said Kalogridis. "I look forward to working with the Cast who make the magic for our Guests everyday and partnering with the Orange County community to ensure the Anaheim Resort Area continues to thrive."

During Kalogridis' tenure with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, he has held numerous executive positions, gaining a breadth of experience beyond operations and sales. In addition to his leadership roles in both Paris and Anaheim, Kalogridis served as vice president of Travel Operations at Walt Disney World in Orlando. Kalogridis also served as vice president of Walt Disney World's EPCOT park, where, in addition to overseeing park operations, he led the Millennium Celebration for The Walt Disney Company.

Kalogridis started his career with the company in 1971 as a busboy at the opening of the Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World. For more than five years, he served as general manager of the Grand Floridian Beach Resort. He has held executive roles in Human Resources at Walt Disney World and served as one of the original Cast Members on the Disneyland Resort Paris development team in 1988.

ANAHEIM, Calif., Sept. 23, 2009 – Disneyland Resort today unveiled a stunning new addition to its Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, including 203 new guest rooms and 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club villas, the first Disney Vacation Club property on the West Coast. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa immerses Guests in the magic of the Disneyland Resort by capturing the spirit of early California through design and architecture. Many of the new vacation villas offer Guests spectacular views into Disney’s California Adventure Park.

“This expansion reinforces Disney’s long-term commitment to investing in Anaheim’s Resort District,” said Ed Grier, president of Disneyland Resort. “Since opening in 2001, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa continues to impress our Guests with its timeless sophistication and exquisite service. The new villas and hotel rooms will give more Guests the opportunity to enjoy the immersive vacation experience Disney is known for.”

The 2.5-acre addition to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which increases accommodations by more than 30 percent, is part of ongoing Resort expansion work. Currently underway is a multiyear expansion of Disney’s California Adventure Park, which will add new attractions, entertainment experiences and an entirely new 12-acre Cars Land. In addition, the Resort’s historic Disneyland Hotel also began a major three-year renovation last month.

"We are so fortunate to have a wonderful partner in the Disneyland Resort,” said Anaheim Mayor Curt Pringle. “Disney’s continued investment in Anaheim benefits the entire Resort District as well as the surrounding community. This grand addition to the city’s only four-diamond hotel will encourage even more visitors to come to Anaheim and experience a vacation in our great City.”

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa mark the 10th property for Disney Vacation Club, Disney’s innovative vacation-ownership program. As with all Disney Vacation Club properties, Guests are able to experience the comforts of home, such as a fully equipped kitchen, living area, dining area, washer and dryer, whirlpool tub and other amenities, depending on the size of the accommodations. Guests can choose from four different room categories including a studio (sleeps 4), one-bedroom villa (sleeps up to 5), two-bedroom villa (sleeps up to 9) and the three-bedroom, two-story Grand Villa (sleeps up to 12).

“It is exciting to witness the incredible growth of Disney Vacation Club, because not only are we creating new accommodations here in Anaheim, we are creating new experiences,” said Disney Vacation Club President Jim Lewis. “Now Disney Vacation Club is part of the place where it all started, a place known worldwide as the Happiest Place on Earth.”

Other new amenities at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa include the Mariposa swimming pool, the Grizzly Game Arcade, a Guest laundry facility, two gas barbeque grills, the Paradise View Terrace on the 6th floor, overlooking the Paradise Pier area of Disney’s California Adventure Park, underground valet parking spaces, and an expanded Pinocchio’s Workshop – a licensed child activity center. The hotel now boasts 948 guest rooms, which includes 44 guest suites, as well as 50 Disney Vacation Club two-bedroom equivalent vacation villas.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

The only AAA Four-Diamond hotel in North Orange County, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is an architectural and artistic celebration of California’s renowned Arts & Crafts style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

One of three hotels at the Disneyland Resort, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is home to the nationally renowned and award-winning Napa Rose restaurant, where Wine Country cuisine tempts taste buds and expert sommeliers help Guests make selections from one of the world’s finest collections of California wines. The nearby Storytellers Café lets kids and adults alike enjoy a dining experience that only Disney can do, complete with an array of popular Disney characters. These dining experiences, coupled with a luxury spa, onsite shopping and other amenities, helped the hotel earn the No. 3 spot on Travel & Leisure Family magazine’s list of the top family-friendly resort destinations.

Disney Vacation Club

Disney Vacation Club is a vacation-ownership program that helps families enjoy flexibility and savings on vacations for decades to come. By purchasing a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club resort, families enjoy memorable vacations at Disney destinations worldwide as well as more than 500 other popular Member Getaways vacation locations around the globe.

Disney Vacation Club, currently celebrating its milestone 18th anniversary, has grown to serve more than 420,000 individual members from approximately 100 countries and all 50 states. The expansion project marks the latest growth for Disney Vacation Club, which recently opened Kidani Village, part of the popular Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge at the Walt Disney World Resort. Plus, plans are underway to open Disney’s family-friendly mixed-use resort in Hawai‘i, which is scheduled to include 350 traditional hotel rooms and 481 Disney Vacation Club villas built on 21 acres of oceanfront property on the island of O‘ahu. For more information please visit www.disneyvacationclub.com.

Winner leads field of nearly 12,000 through Disneyland Resort and Streets of Anaheim

Photo ©Disney

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Sept. 6, 2009) – Jaeyung Hyung, 38, of Las Cruces, N.M., celebrated his first-place finish at the fourth annual Disneyland Half Marathon Sunday, crossing the finish line with a time of 1:10:44 to lead the estimated field of nearly 12,000 participants.

“I really enjoyed running the race here,“ Hyung said. “There were so many people, and Disney made it a lot of fun.”

Placing overall second was Benjamin Gomez-Gutierrez, 32, of Jalos, Mexico, with a time of 1:12:46. Dennis Hong, 17, of Chino Hills, Calif., finished third with a time of 1:13:10.

Mandy Grantz, 23, of Pasadena, Calif., celebrated as the women’s champion with a time of 1:26:00. Grantz, a second-year graduate student at California Institute of Technology, was running her first Disneyland Half Marathon.

“I’ve never been the winner of any race before,” Grantz said. “And I’ve never been to Disneyland before, so running through the parks was so much fun.”

The women’s second-place finisher was Stacy Schafer, 42, of Carlsbad, Calif., with a time of 1:26:32. Angela Bestwick, 33, of Las Vegas, Nev., took third place with a time of 1:28:06.

Kevin Broady, 47, of Orange, Calif., earned a notable Master’s Division (age 40+) victory for the second year in a row and a fourth overall ranking with a time of 1:13:25. Edith Martinez, 41, of Brea, Calif., was named the top women’s Master’s Division finisher with a time of 1:27:33.

In the men’s wheelchair division, Scott Parson, 50, of San Jose, Calif., crossed the finish line first with a time of 48:55. There were no participants in the women’s wheelchair division this year.

Approximately 13,500 runners from 50 states and 13 countries registered for the magical 13.1-mile Disneyland Half Marathon this year, putting the race at full capacity. The field included first-time half marathoners as well as veteran runners. The course traveled through two Disneyland Resort theme parks and along Anaheim streets with landmarks such as the Honda Center and the Angel Stadium of Anaheim, while Disney characters and festive entertainment inspired them along the way.

Runners who completed the half marathon received a commemorative Sleeping Beauty Castle medal, the signature medal of the Disneyland Half Marathon and one in the Disney’s Endurance Series collection.

The second annual Coast to Coast Challenge Race medal was presented to approximately 1,751 runners who completed the Walt Disney World Marathon, Half Marathon or Disney’s Princess Half Marathon this year at Walt Disney World Resort and then also completed the Disneyland Half Marathon. The Coast to Coast medal showcases the iconic “Partners Statue” of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse.

The 2010 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend is scheduled for Sept. 3-5, with the Half Marathon being held on Sunday, Sept. 5.

The Half Marathon is just one of 11 weekend events that make up the Disney’s Endurance Series, which gives recreational athletes of all ages and abilities the chance to walk, jog, run, bike and swim their way “around the world.” From running marathons to road races and triathlons, participating athletes at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World compete to stay in shape, achieve personal-best times and raise donations for charitable causes.

Photo © The Walt Disney Company

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Aug. 24, 2009) - A full field of more than 18,000 participants is gearing up for the fourth annual Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Sept. 4-6. The weekend features activities for the whole family, including a Health & Fitness Expo, Mickey's Main Street, U.S.A. 5K, Kids' Races and the main event -- a 13.1-mile half marathon affectionately dubbed "The Happiest Race on Earth."

Participants from all 50 U.S. states and 13 countries are set to compete in weekend races. More than 13,500 are registered to participate in the Half Marathon Sept. 6, and 5,000 are registered in the Family 5K and Kids' Races Sept. 5.

The Disneyland Half Marathon features a course unlike any other in the world. Passing through the two Disneyland Resort theme parks - Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure - and the streets of Anaheim, participants will experience a race full of inspiration only Disney can provide. There are flaming cannons at the start, live entertainers along the route and Disney characters as cheerleaders. Many participants come dressed in costume, and some might even stop mid-race to pose with their favorite Disney characters.

"We've had tremendous success with the Disneyland Half Marathon, reaching capacity months before the race for the fourth year in a row, said Ed Grier, president of the Disneyland Resort. "In partnership with the City of Anaheim, we provide a unique and entertaining Half Marathon course, giving participants another reason to celebrate during this year's 'What Will You Celebrate?' initiative."

In 3 1/2 hours or less, runners will pass Disneyland icons such as Sleeping Beauty Castle and the Matterhorn, and Anaheim landmarks such as the Anaheim Convention Center, Honda Center and the Angel Stadium of Anaheim, before finally crossing the finish line in the Downtown Disney District.

The road race has become popular for its flat loop course and mild climate - ideal for personal best times. Hosted by the Disneyland Resort and the City of Anaheim, it reached registration capacity in July.

Half Marathon race finishers will earn a commemorative medal depicting Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, one in a series of Disney race-specific medals. An estimated 1,751 runners are also eligible to earn a special medal for the second annual Disney's Coast to Coast Challenge Race.

To be eligible, runners must have completed the Walt Disney World Marathon, Half Marathon or Disney's Princess Half Marathon this year at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla., in addition to completing the 2009 Disneyland Half Marathon. The Coast to Coast medal showcases the iconic statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse (known as the Partners Statue).

The Anaheim Community Foundation (ACF) will receive a monetary donation as part of this year's race.

The Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend builds off the successful 16-year history of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend held annually in January at Walt Disney World Resort. More than 225,000 runners, joggers and wheelchair athletes have successfully participated in the previous Walt Disney World Marathon Weekends.

To kick off the weekend, participants can check out the Health & Fitness Expo at the Disneyland Hotel starting Sept. 4. The two-day expo features information sessions on last-minute race tips and exhibits related to training, nutrition and the latest running equipment. Expo hours are 2 p.m.-8 p.m. Sept. 4 and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 5.

The Half Marathon is just one of 11 weekend events that make up the Disney's Endurance Series, which gives recreational athletes of all ages and abilities the chance to walk, jog, run, bike and swim their way "around the world." From running marathons to road races and triathlons, participating athletes at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World compete to stay in shape, achieve personal-best times and raise donations for charitable causes.

The next Disneyland Half Marathon will take place Sept. 5, 2010.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Aug. 12, 2009) – Value-minded vacationers have plenty to celebrate this fall with a special travel offer: savings of $400* at the Disneyland Resort in Southern California.

From Aug. 12 through Dec. 19, 2009, guests will save $400 when they book a 4-Day/4-Night Disneyland Resort vacation package, featuring Disneyland Resort hotel accommodations – Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Paradise Pier – and park hopper tickets. The offer is valid for arrivals Aug. 23 through Dec. 20, 2009. Pricing starts as low as $87 per person, per day, at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel.*

Each package includes four-day park hopper tickets and many extras, such as one Magic Morning admission per person. Magic Morning admission allows families to enjoy select Disneyland attractions – including Finding Nemo’s Submarine Voyage, Peter Pan’s Flight, Dumbo the Flying Elephant and King Arthur Carrousel – before the park opens to the general public. The new package also provides guests the opportunity to interact with some classic Disney characters in Mickey’s Toontown Morning Madness one hour before Mickey’s Toontown opens to the general public. (Mickey’s Toontown Morning Madness and Magic Morning early entry do not operate daily and are subject to restrictions.) Preferred seating at select attractions and restaurants in Disney’s California Adventure are also included.

Seasonal Fun
Beginning Sept. 25 through Nov. 1, the resort celebrates Halloween Time, a season filled with whimsical décor, a new fireworks show and some traditional spooky fun. This season of tricks and treats will feature some of Disney’s most popular villains and will unveil Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, a themed experience with haunting music and ghoulish sound effects. A new, nightly fireworks display will light up the autumn sky with a wicked sense of fun, while the traditional giant Mickey Mouse jack-o’-lantern returns to Disneyland Town Square. Also, the eerily popular Haunted Mansion Holiday attraction in New Orleans Square and Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tours will return for guests to enjoy.

Disney Difference
Park hopper tickets included in the special fall savings offer make it easy to experience the best of both theme parks. Guests can aim for the highest scores aboard the exciting new Toy Story Mania! attraction at Disney’s California Adventure park. Then they can hop over to Disneyland park for a journey aboard the recently enhanced “it’s a small world” attraction – the happiest cruise that ever sailed. Guests will enjoy riding “it’s a small world” again and again as they search for the 29 Disney and Disney•Pixar characters now represented in the classic attraction.

Whether it’s discovering whimsical Disney art at Disneyland Hotel, stepping back in time to the golden days of California beachfronts at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, or indulging your senses at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, staying at any of the resort hotels provides the Disney magic from check-in to check-out. Guests are steps away from two of the world’s most famous theme parks and a vibrant dining and entertainment district, Downtown Disney.

Its been 40 years since the Grim Grinning Ghosts first opened their doors and invited guests into the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland. Take a look back to the beginning with Walt and the Imagineers who created the beloved attraction. From stretching rooms to hitch hiking ghosts the 999 Happy Haunts never disappoint and always invite guests to hurry back!

(AUG. 6, 2009): Tony Award winner Anika Noni Rose (left), who provides the voice of Disney's newest princess, Tiana, in the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated feature film "The Princess and the Frog," poses with the new Princess Tiana character (right) as she will soon appear at Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Thursday night's event marked the very first public appearance of the Princess Tiana theme park character and took place during the 2009 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Annual Convention in Tampa, Fla. In addition, Rose performed a song from the film for convention-goers. "The Princess and the Frog" film will premiere in theaters nationwide Dec. 11, 2009. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

On the 54th Anniversary of Disneyland, Disney Legend and Imagineer Marty Sklar receives one of the highest honors at Disneyland- a window on Main Street, U.S.A. Disneyland Resort Ambassador Danielle DuBois interviews Sklar and shares the history behind window dedications.

July 17 Commemorates the Thrill Ride’s 20th Anniversary

Photo © Disneyland/Paul Hiffmeyer

ANAHEIM, Calif. (July 17, 2009) – The thrill of plummeting down a water chute, screaming and making a giant splash are just as exciting today as they were on July 17, 1989, when Splash Mountain opened in Critter Country at Disneyland park. Guests continue to celebrate the journey through a magical world in a hollowed-out log, singing along with characters on classic songs such as “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” and enjoying this very special “laughing place.”

Splash Mountain opened its gates as a groundbreaking attraction, becoming one in a line of treasured “mountains” at the Disneyland Resort. With innovative technology and Disney creativity, the lavish production gives guests an escape from reality and immerses them into a fantasy world.

Guests board one of the logs and begin their journey, twisting and turning through sparkling waters and climbing to the top of the 87-foot tall mountain. Along the way, guests are greeted by more than 100 characters who are playing and singing time-honored classic songs from Walt Disney’s 1946 animated film, “Song of the South.” While ascending to the top, playful vultures taunt riders about their fast-approaching and imminent decline. Once at the peak, riders take a thrilling five-story, 52-foot drop down a steep descent, making a huge “splash” into the awaiting pond below. Once safely at the bottom, and with “plenty of sunshine” headed their way, guests are treated to what is commonly known as the Disney “national anthem”, “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah.” Here, riders are encouraged to sing along, come again and have some more fun with the mischievous, yet comical characters.

When it opened, Splash Mountain starred one of the largest casts of animated characters of the time. Today, Splash Mountain continues to be a favorite attraction, partly because it reaches the fastest speed of all rides at Disneyland Park, at approximately 40 miles an hour. With its rich heritage, cast of characters, catchy songs, and white-knuckle adventure, “Splash Mountain” continues to be a thrilling journey.

All-new Web Site Keeps Visitors Up to Date On Expansion at Disney’s California Adventure

ANAHEIM, Calif. (July 16, 2009) – Fans of Disney’s California Adventure can explore coming attractions and exciting plans for the park during its expansion at a new, interactive Web site, starting July 16.

The site, hosted at www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com, will serve as an online preview center, taking visitors behind the scenes of the multiyear expansion at Disney’s California Adventure. It features videos, photos, renderings, interviews and other assets to keep users up to date on the progress of attractions and entertainment coming to life in the park.

Like the Disney parks themselves, the site will “continue to change and add new things” with regular updates.

Among the highlights at www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com:

· What’s New – link to the latest information on new developments at the park

· Big Plans – see the “big picture” approach to the ambitious expansion project

· Pictures and Videos – link to renderings, photos and exclusive, behind-the-scenes views of works in progress

· Individual Attractions – click on the pictures of “World of Color,” Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Buena Vista Street or Cars Land for more details about those exciting attractions

In addition to www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com, guests can visit Blue Sky Cellar at Disney’s California Adventure to see concepts and models, or play trivia games related to the expansion. Guests can also find information about other Disneyland Resort attractions, or plan a celebration or vacation at Disneyland Resort, by visiting www.disneyland.com, calling 866/60-DISNEY or contacting local travel agents.

Disney Imagineers reveal details of ‘World of Color,’ a nighttime water spectacular coming in spring 2010

ANAHEIM, Calif. (July 16, 2009) – Nestled in the Golden Vine Winery at Disney’s California Adventure, Blue Sky Cellar is a place where guests get a sneak preview of what’s new and what’s next during the expansion of the park. Beginning July 16, guests will see the first in-depth look at “World of Color,” the next major milestone in the expansion of Disney’s California Adventure, opening in spring 2010. Disney Imagineers, the creative minds behind the design and construction of Disney theme parks and attractions, are sharing their models, concepts and sketches to reveal the development of this spectacular water, animation and special effects show.

At Blue Sky Cellar, guests are invited to preview works in progress at Disney’s California Adventure by immersing themselves in a facsimile of an Imagineering workspace. Based on the belief that idea gathering is best when “the sky’s the limit,” Blue Sky Cellar is designed to resemble an Imagineering “charette,” an extended creative idea development meeting. Guests receive an inside look at how Imagineers take “blue sky” ideas and refine them into the classic storytelling that characterizes Disney theme park attractions and adventures.

In this whimsical immersive setting, Imagineers have taken over a former wine cellar and set up shop. Wine barrels have turned into work stations and the former wine tasting room has become a screening room where a video showcases the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into the creation of new and upcoming attractions for Disney’s California Adventure. Additionally, guests in Blue Sky Cellar will have fun testing their knowledge of Disney trivia at one of the interactive workstations.

The video seen in the screening room features Imagineers describing the approach and vision of the Disney California Adventure expansion. Guests will see footage of model-making, sculpting, Blue Sky meetings and all the aspects of bringing a Disney concept to life. In the latest video, Imagineer Steven Davison and others show guests some of the astounding animation and water effects they can expect to see in “World of Color” in 2010.

Included in the original announcement of the multi-year expansion of Disneyland Resort in fall 2007, Blue Sky Cellar is part of the overall commitment to keep the community and Disneyland Resort guests informed of the exciting new and upcoming plans for the resort. Guests are encouraged to check back for updates on additional exciting developments and attractions, both at Blue Sky Cellar and online at www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com.

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Opened on Feb. 8, 2001, Disney’s California Adventure anchored a major expansion of Disneyland Resort. The expansion included Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Downtown Disney, a 300,000-square-foot shopping, dining and entertainment district.

Building this expansive project took more than three years and resulted in an additional 6,000 jobs, bringing the total employment at Disneyland Resort to 20,000, making Disneyland Resort Orange County’s largest single-site employer.

The expansion was a catalyst for transforming the Anaheim Resort Area into a multiday destination that attracts millions of visitors from around the world who spend billions of dollars each year. Hundreds of millions of dollars in additional tax revenue, generated by the expansion, help fund vital services for the city of Anaheim.

Disney’s California Adventure has become one of the nation’s most visited theme parks. The 55-acre park is filled with dozens of shows, adventures and attractions that appeal to guests of all ages. Through Disney’s legendary storytelling, the fantasy of California comes to life in four themed lands – Golden State, Paradise Pier, a bug’s land and Hollywood Pictures Backlot.

Resort Expansion

In 2007, a significant multiyear expansion of Disney’s California Adventure was announced including new family-oriented attractions and shows that feature more stories and characters from both Disney and Pixar.

The park expansion began with the 2008 opening of Toy Story Mania! This interactive 4-D ride-through attraction transports guests into a carnival midway hosted by beloved “Toy Story” characters.

In early 2009, Mickey’s Fun Wheel, a 150-foot-diameter attraction that features a new Mickey Mouse marquee, reopened along with the Games of the Boardwalk, carnival-style games that now showcase some of the most beloved Disney and Disney•Pixar characters.

Opening in spring 2010, “World of Color” will bring nighttime excitement to Paradise Pier with a panorama of spectacular water effects, dancing fountains and music that will bring Disney animation to life with a new creative and technical approach. “World of Color” boasts a 9,000-guest viewing area.

The first major attraction based on Disney’s classic “The Little Mermaid” is coming to the park’s Paradise Pier area with leading-edge animation and special effects. Guests will be able to dive into the magnificent scenes and magical songs from the movie when The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure debuts in 2011.

In 2012, a brand new gateway to Disney’s California Adventure will welcome guests into the Los Angeles that Walt experienced as a young artist arriving with big dreams in the 1920s. Red Car Trolleys reminiscent of the old Pacific Electric Red Car Line will travel up and down Buena Vista Street alongside new dining, shopping and entertainment experiences. A new visual icon inspired by Los Angeles’ historic Carthay Circle Theatre, which premiered “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” in 1937, will draw guests into the heart of the park.

Culminating the major expansion is the entirely new, 12-acre addition: Cars Land, which recreates the town of Radiator Springs as inspired by the hit Disney•Pixar film “Cars.” Cars Land will feature three immersive family attractions, Radiator Springs Racers, Luigi’s Flying Tires and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree. Radiator Springs Racers will be one of the largest and most elaborate attractions ever created for a Disney park. This major E-ticket attraction will place guests in the middle of a twisting, turning, high-speed adventure.

Walt Disney Imagineering’s Blue Sky Cellar, a preview center located near the Golden Vine Winery, showcases the expansion plans for Disney’s California Adventure. Here, guests can take a sneak peek at models, concepts and sketches and view a video of what’s new and what’s next. An online version of Blue Sky Cellar launches July 2009 at www.DisneysCaliforniaAdventure.com.

Continued Investment

Investment in Disney’s California Adventure has continued since its opening, broadening the appeal to guests of all ages. Guests have been further immersed in thrilling new attractions and shows, giving them compelling reasons to stay longer and visit often.

* Based on the Disney•Pixar movie “a bug’s life,” a bug’s land was added in 2002. This land added several new rides and shows designed for younger guests.
* “Disney’s Aladdin-A Musical Spectacular” debuted at the 1,800-seat Hyperion Theatre in 2003. This 40-minute, Broadway-quality musical entertains thousands of people every day.
* The Twilight Zone® Tower of Tower opened in 2004. The 13-story attraction encourages guests to leave reality behind as they experience a new dimension in fun and sheer thrills.
* “Turtle Talk With Crush” was added in 2005 inside the Disney Animation building and continually amazes guests with its interactive technology.
* In 2006, “Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!” featuring more than 40 animated figures, opened to rave reviews.
* Toy Story Mania! opened in 2008, adding another immersive family experience to the park. The 4-D ride-through interactive attraction is hosted by favorite characters from the Disney•Pixar “Toy Story” films.
* Joining the lineup in 2008, “Pixar Play Parade” brings together the energy and excitement of beloved films in a unique, dynamic and water-filled spectacular.

Continued investment also is being made at the award-winning Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, adjacent to Disney’s California Adventure, with 200 new rooms slated to open in fall 2009 along with 50 vacation villas, the first Disney Vacation Club villas on the West Coast.

Home to Popular Attractions

Disney’s California Adventure is home to some of the highest-rated attractions at Disneyland Resort, based on guest satisfaction ratings. Among them are:

* “Soarin’ Over California”: This exhilarating airborne adventure takes guests soaring over the wonders of the Golden State, from the beaches to the mountains.
* California Screamin’: The 6,000-foot-long roller coaster, inspired by the “golden age of coasters,” thrills guests as they experience sharp turns, go upside-down and make sudden drops. At launch, guests go from 0 to 55 miles per hour in less than five seconds.
* The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror: This thrilling and chilling supernatural adventure, based on the classic “Twilight Zone” television series, surprises guests with a series of faster-than-gravity drops and amazing special effects.
* “Disney’s Aladdin-A Musical Spectacular”: With dancing genies, soaring carpets and imagination taking flight, this amazing musical production brings favorite characters from Disney’s “Aladdin” to life.
* Toy Story Mania!: One of the most engaging, dynamic attractions at Disney parks, this next-generation interactive ride-game experience is fun for the entire family.

With dozens of highly entertaining shows, adventures and attractions, Disney’s California Adventure appeals to guests of all ages, and takes them to a California that could only be Imagineered by Disney.

ANAHEIM, Calif., July 16, 2009 – Elaborate preparation is underway for “World of Color,” the spectacular nighttime water show that will astound guests with its magnitude and creativity when it debuts in spring 2010 as the next major milestone in the expansion of Disney’s California Adventure park. Surpassing all Disney water productions, “World of Color” will bring Disney animation to life with powerful fountains that become stars of the show as they create the world’s largest projected water screen.

For months now, guests at Disney’s California Adventure have been peering into the lagoon near Paradise Pier as Walt Disney Imagineering and Creative Entertainment have installed the massive infrastructure and innovative technology that will create the stage for this extraordinary combination of music, animation and stunning water effects. Teams of Disney workers have built nearly an acre of superstructure to support the complex “World of Color” production.

“World of Color” will combine hundreds of magnificent fountains, dazzling colors and an all-new kaleidoscope of audio and visual effects, to take water-infused entertainment to a new level of artistry. The production will flood the senses, taking audiences on an imaginative journey into the colorful worlds of animated Disney classics such as “Alice in Wonderland,” “The Lion King” and “Pocahontas,” along with Disney•Pixar films “Toy Story,” “WALL-E” and many more.

Disney’s newest production features an unprecedented infrastructure of water effects, larger-than-life projections, lasers, fire, fog, surround sound, and stunning images. This technical wizardry, combined with classic Disney film sequences, will create a breathtaking emotional experience for guests, as jaw-dropping effects sweep across the lagoon, soar into the sky, and rush toward the audience.

A newly designed 9,000-capacity viewing area will provide Disney’s California Adventure guests the best view in the park of this exciting nighttime extravaganza. The show lasts approximately 25 minutes.

Some of the technical magic behind ‘World of Color’ includes:
• Nearly 1 full acre of engineered superstructure, longer than a football field and capable of settling on three levels – one for the performance, one under the water surface and one for maintenance
• More than 1,200 powerful and programmable fountains
• A vast underwater grid with more than 18,000 points of control. Each fountain has multiple points of control for lighting, color intensity, water angle, height and more.
• Fountain heights that range from 30 feet to 200 feet in the air (by way of comparison, Mickey’s Fun Wheel reaches a height of 150 feet, some of it below the edge of the lagoon)
• A precise system of flame projections, lasers, and special effects that will flood the senses as guests experience the animation
• Scenic elements that rise more than 80 feet above the lagoon
• The world’s largest projected water screen — a wall of water 380 feet wide by 50 feet high for a projection surface of 19,000 square feet
• Nearly 30 high-definition projectors

Disneyland Resort Opens New Immersive Makeover Experience
Exclusively at Downtown Disney District

Photo ©Scott Brinegar/Disneyland

ANAHEIM, Calif. (June 26, 2009) – A stylish and unique makeover experience premiers at the Disneyland Resort with the debut of Studio Disney 365. Opening June 26 in the Downtown Disney District, the dazzling new makeover boutique is a one-of-a-kind specialty store offering guests a unique chance to rock out like some of their favorite Disney Channel stars.

From the moment they step into the Studio Disney 365 “sound stage,” guests will see lights, cameras, and a lot of action! Talent agents and stylists will help these “stars of tomorrow” undergo a complete transformation, getting them camera-ready to walk the carpet and preparing them for their grand entrance onto the set. Studio Disney 365 is the place to be for emerging stars, with so much to do and so much to see!

Studio Disney 365 guests can choose from five different Studio Star makeover packages. All packages include a talent contract, choice of hair makeover, complete cosmetic makeover, deluxe make-up case, a downloadable photo file, a customized lanyard with photo and a photo shoot.

* From The Top –Your hair, our unique style,$29.95.
* Color Cue – Includes a unique twisted pony design and choice of up to four colored streaks, $39.95.
* That’s A Wrap – Includes five front braids and high pony twists, your choice of faux hair tousled pony and a lace stretch headband, $49.95.
* Spotlight – Includes two French braids wrapped to each side, your choice of faux hair pony tail and a flower hair accessory, $49.95.
* Secret Star – Includes a Hannah Montana-inspired wig with sequined headband, rocker light-up headset and a themed face gem, $59.95.
* Rock Star –Studio Disney 365 also features a special treatment for those upcoming rock stars. The “Rock Star” look for boys is $18.95 plus tax and includes a slicked-back or spiked hairstyle with colored gel tips, smokey eyes, a downloadable photo file and a customized lanyard with photo.

Wardrobe options befitting a true superstar await guests at Studio Disney 365, where they can take center stage dressed from head to toe in today’s hottest fashions.**

* Studio Rocker – Includes choice of trend T-shirt, fingerless gloves, tutu and colored ankle tights.
* Trend Setter – Includes choice of trend T-shirt, sunglasses, scarf and fedora.
* Scene Stealer – Includes complete Hannah Montana costume, featuring gold lame jacket, tank, black leggings, black and purple tutu and light-up guitar sticks.

Studio Star makeovers are designed for children ages three and older, who must be accompanied by an adult age 18 years or older. Studio Disney 365 is located in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort. Operating hours vary. Advance reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 714/781-STYLE (714/781-7895).

** Wardrobe package price may vary based on style, size and price of apparel and accessories. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Guest information: www.downtowndisney.com/disneystudio365.

ANAHEIM, Calif., June 18, 2009 – Celebrating the best in basketball, the Disneyland Resort saluted the 2009 World Champion Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday with a victory parade down Main Street U.S.A, in Disneyland park. Kobe Bryant, MVP of the recent NBA Finals, smiled and waved to fans as he rode on a float to represent the Lakers in the special, celebration parade.

Some favorite Disney characters joined the magical parade as Disneyland guests cheered for the Lakers and their 15th NBA championship. The Lakers defeated the Orlando Magic to win the title in a “Fairytale Series” that matched up teams located near Disneyland Resort, in Anaheim, and Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

“It’s like a dream come true to be here and celebrate at Disneyland, coming down Main Street U.S.A. with all the fans cheering,” Bryant said after the parade. “It’s a tremendous honor to represent my team.”

The presidents of the two Resorts, Ed Grier at Disneyland and Meg Crofton at Walt Disney World, made a friendly wager on the NBA Finals. On Thursday, Meg Crofton fulfilled her pledge by donning a pair of Lakers’ purple and gold Mickey Mouse ears and walking down Main Street, U.S.A., in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Each of the Resorts also turned the lights of their respective castles to the team colors of the Lakers and the Magic, in celebration of the historic pairing. Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland park was glowing with Lakers purple and gold during the NBA Finals and will stay that way through Thursday night.

“I heard there was a little competition with Disneyland and Disney World and we won,” Kobe Bryant said, “so our colors are staying up a little bit longer.”

Two of the many Lakers fans at Disneyland on Thursday were selected to ride the Matterhorn Bobsleds with Bryant after the parade. David Guerrero and his son Jonathan, 4, of Pomona, are Annual Passport holders and they came to Disneyland in their team jerseys to celebrate the Lakers’ World Championship.

“They just picked us out of the crowd and said, ‘Do you want to ride the Matterhorn with Kobe?’ I’m shaking, this is so exciting,” David Guerrero said as Jonathan jumped up and down. “In Southern California, being a Disney fan and a Lakers fan, it just goes together and that’s why we wanted to be here today.”

The Disneyland Resort victory parade provided yet another reason for dancing in the streets as Disney Parks asks guests, "What Will You Celebrate?" in 2009. Guests are celebrating birthdays, graduations, engagements and more at Disney Parks and they are utilizing an unprecedented offer good throughout 2009 – the opportunity to visit a theme park at Disneyland or Walt Disney World Resort free on their birthdays.*

The summer of celebration continues at Disneyland Resort with special vacation offers and Summer Nightastic! The exciting, after-dark entertainment includes a new fireworks spectacular, "Magical," starring Dumbo the flying elephant; Tinker Bell's "pixie magic" in "Disney's Electrical Parade"; and sensational new characters and special effects in "Fantasmic!" Residents of Southern California can purchase the Summer Fun Pass and visit the parks on three days for $99.** Guests who pay for a three-night vacation package get an extra two nights free for arrivals through September 26, 2009.+ For details, visit www.disneyland.com and www.disneyland.com/summer

*No cash refunds or credits will be given. Valid ID including proof of birth date required at ticket booth. Visit disneybirthdaytreat.com for details and to register your birthday.

**Must provide proof of residency within Zip codes 90000-93599 and 21000-22999. Tickets valid 45 days from first use and first use must occur on or before 8/23/09. Tickets blocked out on 7/4/09.

+Must book by 8/11/09. Number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Landmark Disneyland Hotel to Undergo Significant Renovation

ANAHEIM, CALIF. June 16, 2009 - Beginning in August 2009, Southern California's landmark Disneyland Hotel will start a significant renovation project that will include major improvements to its guest rooms and considerable changes to the exterior of the hotel. The hotel will remain open during the renovation, which will be conducted in phases, and is scheduled to be completed in 2012.

"We are excited to embark on the largest and most extensive renovation of one of Disney's classic hotels," said Disneyland Resort President Ed Grier. "This renovation provides us with the opportunity to bring new magic to this historic hotel, which enables us to enhance the Disney experience that our guests have come to expect. "It also reinforces our ongoing commitment and investment in the Anaheim Resort District - working with the city and area businesses to continue to evolve the District into a world-class, multiday tourist destination," added Grier.

Significant Guest Room Upgrades, New Room Amenities and Exterior Enhancements
Disneyland Hotel's renovated guest rooms will feature an all-new contemporary look with exquisite Disney touches woven into the décor. A stunning new headboard that features an artistically carved representation of Disneyland Park's famous Sleeping Beauty Castle will serve as the focal point in each guest room. The background on the headboard uses fiber optics to create a magical skyline with fireworks - bringing the immersive park experience into the room. Rooms also will feature black and white art that will take guests back in time, reinforcing the nostalgia and history of

Walt's first theme park.
When completed, guest rooms will boast new flat screen TVs, mini-refrigerators, coffeemakers, safes capable of holding laptop computers and new state-of-the-art telephone, cable and wireless Internet connections. Upgrades to plumbing, electrical and heating and air conditioning systems also are included in the project.

Disneyland Resort's original hotel, built in 1955, also will experience a noteworthy change to its exterior. All of the three towers will feature an updated look, with large windows that will give the outside a sleek, radiant blue tint. The windows will replace the current sliding doors and faux balcony railings and are specially designed to be energy efficient and to extensively filter outside noise.

"The new design for the hotel's exterior will enhance the existing towers and compliment the Resort as a whole. The windows will feature a sky blue reflective glass that channels the feel of our bright California sky," said Mike Montague, director of resort development for Walt Disney Imagineering. The Disneyland Hotel is composed of three main structures - the Magic, Wonder and Dreams towers. Construction will take place in one vertical half of a tower at a time - leaving the rest of the tower open for guests. The Dreams tower will be the first to be renovated and is scheduled to be completed in June 2010.

Popular Choice for Convention Visitors
In addition to being a top choice for vacationing families, the Disneyland Hotel has long been a favorite for meeting and convention planners because of its prime location and size - and direct access to more than 136,000 square feet of convention space. Anaheim hosts hundreds of groups each year and the renovation will help maintain the city's premiere position as a meeting destination. "We are thrilled with Disney's plans to renovate the Disneyland Hotel," said Charles W. Ahlers, president of the Anaheim/Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau. "With the renovation of the hotel and the expansion of Disney's Grand Californian, coupled with other new hotel developments that are coming to Anaheim over the next few years, our city will continue to be a premier destination for convention and meeting planners."

Energy Efficient Enhancements
As with other construction and enhancements that are underway throughout the Disneyland Resort, the renovation will include energy efficient upgrades. The most notable feature will be the hotel's new windows. With their reflective capabilities and double-pane glass, the windows will change the look of the exterior of the hotel dramatically, while reducing energy consumption by keeping guest rooms at the desired temperature. The use of occupancy sensors in guest rooms, low-flow toilets, energy efficient light bulbs and paint low in volatile organic compounds are just a few more of the ways that the hotel will offer guests a "green" lodging experience.

Renovation is Part of Larger Resort Expansion
The Disneyland Hotel renovation is a part of a larger expansion project underway throughout the Resort. Disney's California Adventure Park is undergoing a multiyear expansion project that includes new experiences, attractions and night-time spectaculars, culminating in 2012 with the opening a brand new land - Cars Land. The four-star Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is also undergoing an expansion, adding 200 hotel rooms and 50 two-bedroom villas that are part of the Disney Vacation Club, which will make its first West Coast debut when it opens in the fall of 2009.

* Flotsam and Jetsam, Ursula’s eels from “The Little Mermaid,” are each eight feet tall and 37 feet long.
* Central to the magic of “Fantasmic!” are the three mist screens, each 50 feet wide by 35 feet tall, upon which the films are projected.
* Approximately 9,000 guests can view “Fantasmic!” at each performance. The audience is approximately 70 feet from the main stage on Tom Sawyer Island.
* Each night, more than 100 cast and crew members bring “Fantasmic!” to life, in the
23-minute show.
* Additional water effects include 21 fountains and six “whale tails” in the scene when Monstro the whale charges across the Rivers of America.
* At the beginning of the show, two light towers appear on either side of the main stage. During the day, these towers rest 26 feet underground. They rise to a height of 40 feet in less than a minute.
* The audio surrounding the “Fantasmic!” spectators is created by four speakers on Tom Sawyer Island and three on the mainland.
* Kaa, the conniving snake from “The Jungle Book” who slithers across the “Fantasmic!” stage, is 100 feet long.
* The “crew” of Captain Hook’s ship (the Sailing Ship Columbia by day) is composed of professional stunt performers who execute all the spectacular duels and falls.
* As part of the “Fantasmic!” story, the wicked Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty” will rise to a height of 35 feet in 17 seconds, before transforming into a new dragon.
* The new dragon is a fully animated three-dimensional design that replicates the movements of the dragon in “Sleeping Beauty.” The dragon is 40 feet tall by 28 feet wide and weighs approximately 10,000 pounds.
* The dragon lights the Rivers of America on fire for 25 seconds.

HISTORY

* “Fantasmic!” officially opened to the public on May 15, 1992, at Disneyland.
* The main stage on Tom Sawyer Island, including underground housing for many special effects, was specially built for “Fantasmic!” By day, it is a boat dock and “cider mill” visited by guests on the island.
* In 1992, the original estimate for the prospective audience size was 6,500. It became clear on opening night that the audience for each performance would be much larger. Spectators found every space they could cram into, and the average number of guests per performance was 11,000 that first summer.
* Within days, the area was re-landscaped to accommodate more guests in the viewing areas. “Fantasmic!” was scheduled for three shows per night that year, and extended to four shows on July 4 and New Year’s Eve. Before summer 1993 arrived, the walkways and planters in New Orleans Square had been redesigned in the “terrace” style from which today’s guests view the show.
* One special feature of “Fantasmic!” is the way it uses existing Disneyland attractions – Tom Sawyer Island, the Mark Twain Riverboat, the Sailing Ship Columbia – as elements of the show. It is unique in that regard.
* A different version of “Fantasmic!” premiered in October 1998 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (then Disney-MGM Studios) at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. A 6,900-seat amphitheater was specially built for the show off Sunset Boulevard in the park.

Tinker Bell and Dumbo Take to the Skies

Photo © Disney

ANAHEIM, Calif. (June 12, 2009) – Tinker Bell is helping Disneyland guests celebrate the nights of summer with “Magical,” the new fireworks spectacular presented by Honda. Tink’s sparkling touch will awaken favorite Disney moments and memories from movie classics such as “Pinocchio,” “Mary Poppins” and “Cinderella.” And, in a very special debut, Dumbo proves that elephants can fly as he joins Tinker Bell in a “Magical” flight over Sleeping Beauty Castle.

WHAT: “Magical” is a dazzling new fireworks spectacular in which colorful, precisely choreographed pyrotechnics burst and soar to a soundtrack of celebratory Disney songs. With a wave of her wand, an airborne Tinker Bell ignites the night with a myriad of light and sends guests on a journey of magical Disney celebrations. As beautiful beams of light dance in the sky, Dumbo the flying elephant appears for the first time in a Disneyland fireworks show, flying over Sleeping Beauty Castle.

WHEN: Nightly, beginning Friday, June 12, and continuing through Monday, Sept. 7, at Disneyland. “Magical” may be viewed from Main Street, U.S.A., the mall in front of “it’s a small world” and locations throughout the park.

A PYROTECHNIC SYMPHONY IN FIVE MOVEMENTS: “Magical” is composed of five sequences, each celebrating a different magical experience. It begins with “The Magic of Childhood,” represented by the appearance of Tinker Bell waving her wand to launch the fireworks. Next, Geppetto is heard wishing that Pinocchio could become a real boy; sparkles in the sky announce that the Blue Fairy is near to demonstrate “The Magic of a Wish.” The voice of Mary Poppins teaches “The Magic of Imagination.” Then “The Magic of a Mother’s Love” inspires little Dumbo to fly. Music from the tales of Disney princesses leads into “The Magic of Love’s First Kiss.” And the show concludes with a truly spectacular finale: “It’s Magical.”

THE “MAGICAL” VOICE: Broadway star Eden Espinosa is the soloist on the all-new soundtrack for “Magical.” Prior to a Broadway career that has included the role of Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch of the West” in “Wicked,” both on Broadway and at the Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles, Espinosa delighted Disneyland Resort guests in stage shows and special events at the parks. She attended Canyon Hills High School in Anaheim and Fullerton College. Eden’s performance on the “Magical” soundtrack features an original “Magical” theme along with versions of such beloved melodies as “Baby Mine” from “Dumbo,” “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from “Cinderella,” “The Second Star to the Right” from “Peter Pan” and “Chim Chim Cher-ee” from “Mary Poppins.”

“MAGICAL” – FIREWORKS BY THE NUMBERS

* The pyrotechnic devices are fully choreographed to “Magical’s” musical soundtrack, using 750 discreet digital control channels.
* Guests see the burst of fireworks before hearing it because light travels roughly a million times faster than sound.
* The Disney Air Launch system installed in 2004 creates less ground level smoke than the former system that used black powder.
* Disney is recognized as the world’s largest producer of fixed-base fireworks shows, at its parks in the United States, France, Japan and China.

A SPARKLING HISTORY OF FIREWORKS AT DISNEYLAND

* Disneyland opened to the public in July 1955. There was no fireworks show that year.
* In 1956, after seeing fireworks tests in the Disneyland parking lot when the park was closed, Walt Disney said, “Let’s give it a try.”
* Mickey Aronson, who worked in Disneyland Resort Entertainment for more than 50 years (originally as an outside fireworks consultant), began “shooting” Disneyland fireworks the summer of 1956. In those days, Aronson fired the show by hand, touching off the fuses with a flare.
* Beginning in the late 1960s, Disneyland Entertainment developed a system for firing the shells electronically, synchronized to a musical soundtrack.
* During this period, the fireworks “choreography” was storyboarded like an animated cartoon. At one time, the storyboard artist was Roy Williams, the “Big Mooseketeer” from “The Mickey Mouse Club.”
* The current system, with its multiple fireworks launch sites, special lighting and lasers, and high-tech marriage of music and choreographed pyrotechnics, was first installed for the 2000 Bicentennial/Disneyland 45th Anniversary show, “Believe…There’s Magic in the Stars.”

More information about “Magical” and other special Summer Nightastic! shows can be found at www.disneyland.com/summer.

Photo © Disney

ANAHEIM, Calif. (June 12, 2009) – Everything about “Disney’s Electrical Parade” has a new glow this summer as Tinker Bell sprinkles her pixie dust to illuminate the classic parade, presented by Sylvania. Even the parade’s highly recognizable musical theme is brightened by new technology, adding to the excitement of Summer Nightastic!

Tinker Bell leads the procession on an all-new float and her trail of pixie dust enchants all the parade floats with new beauty along the way. The popular pixie waves from the basket of a balloon floating gracefully above a magical garden shimmering with fairy light.

In addition, enhanced versions of two classic favorites will return to the lineup after a 13-year hiatus – the shimmering diamond mine of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and the Pleasure Island haunts of Pinocchio.

Photo © Disney

WHAT: The parade twinkles with approximately half a million lights. Of those, nearly 10,000 are new “pixie dust” lights spread over the 17 floats. The new LED lights use one-quarter of the power of incandescent lights. The “Tinker Bell” float alone has more than 25,000 points of light and 75 percent are powered by an LED source.

WHEN: Nightly at 8:45 p.m., beginning Friday, June 12, and continuing through Sunday, Aug. 23, at Disney’s California Adventure.

LIGHTS ON DEMAND: A new control system makes it possible, for the first time, for each light to be programmed individually. One example is the new Tinker Bell float, which has 160 dimmers, by far the most of any parade float, to control the lighting. Programming for this parade took approximately two months.

AN EVEN BETTER HOEDOWN: The unforgettable musical theme of the “Electrical Parade,” which has inspired several generations of Disneyland Resort guests to clap along, was adapted from a synthesizer piece known as “Baroque Hoedown,” written in 1967 by Gershon Kingsley and Jean-Jaques Perrey. Disney themes are superimposed over the original piece. For Summer Nightastic!, the distinctive “electro-sytho-magnetic” “Baroque Hoedown” has new audio technology that gives it a richer, fuller sound.

FUN FACTS

* More than 80 performers appear in each presentation of “Disney’s Electrical Parade.”
* There are 11,000 lights on the dancers’ costumes alone. Thanks to the energy-efficient LED lights, some of the dancers’ costumes now carry only one battery pack instead of two.
* All the floats are battery-powered. More than 500 batteries supply power for lighting, propulsion, audio and special effects.
* Approximately five miles of wire is used throughout the floats.
* The tallest float in the parade is the Cinderella clock tower, at 18.5 feet tall.
* The “Fireworks Finale” float, the longest in the parade, has seven cars that span 118 feet.

HISTORY

* Summer Nightastic! 2009 will mark the 30th summer of the “Electrical Parade” performances at Disneyland Resort.
* The original “Main Street Electrical Parade” premiered at Disneyland on June 17, 1972.
* The parade has been performed more than 5,000 times at Disneyland Resort.
* It has been presented nearly every summer, with the following exceptions: a 1975-76 hiatus for the Bicentennial “America on Parade”; the 1983-84 break for “Flights of Fantasy” parade; and the “Electrical Parade” retirement from Disneyland following the summer of 1996. Renamed “Disney’s Electrical Parade,” it premiered at Disney’s California Adventure in July 2001.
* The original “Main Street Electrical Parade” floats were “flatter” and less three-dimensional than the current floats. New floats have been added through the years and some – “it’s a small world” float, “Briny Deep” float, and special anniversary floats for Disneyland’s 25th Anniversary (1980) and Mickey Mouse’s 60th Birthday (1988) – have been retired.
* One of the original floats, the “Title Drum Unit” near the beginning of the parade, was created using an actual bass drum, one of the world’s largest in 1972. This drum had been used in Disneyland parades in the 1960s, when Mickey Mouse used to beat it using large drumsticks.
* Versions of the parade have been presented at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida (premiering 1977), Tokyo Disneyland (premiering 1985) and Disneyland Paris (premiering 1992).

Photo © Disney

Photo © Disney

Photo © Disney

ANAHEIM, Calif. (June 12, 2009) – Summer nights at Disneyland Resort will sparkle with more pixie dust than ever this year as Tinker Bell and her fairy friends unite to create an iridescent light show in their first appearance under the stars, at Pixie Hollow Enchantment.

WHAT: Tinker Bell and her friends have been welcoming guests into their Pixie Hollow home, tucked into the glen near the entrance to Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, since fall of 2008. This summer, for the first time, nighttime visitors will find magical surprises at Pixie Hollow and see the nearby pond come to life in twinkling light shows.

WHEN: Nightly, at 15 minute intervals, beginning Friday, June 12, and continuing through Sunday, Aug. 23, at Pixie Hollow.

THE MAGIC: Pixie dust cascades across the landscape and radiates down into the pond. Even the water becomes enchanted as playful fountains spring to life, pop jets perform with whimsical precision and sparkling strobes shine throughout Pixie Hollow.

LUMINOUS COLORS: The dazzling light show features an array of luminous colors, from the deepest blues to brilliant reds to the most marvelous whites.

PIXIE MUSIC: The magical score transforms the fairy land after dark and includes all-new songs inspired by the film score from the popular movie, “Tinker Bell.”

LED LIGHTS: Sparkling, dazzling and twinkling effects are created by 1,000 LED strobe lights that use as much as 50 percent less energy than regular incandescent lights. In addition, the attraction is enhanced by colored LED fixtures both in the landscaped areas and in Pixie Dust Lake. While using less energy, the LED fixtures allow the color of the landscape and water to interact with the music.

SHOW DIRECTOR’S COMMENT: “Everyone will be swept away by the great music and shimmer of pixie dust at Pixie Hollow this summer,” said Denny Newell, show director for Pixie Hollow. “This little gem of an addition to Nightastic! combines so many of the elements that make Disneyland the place where dreams come true – great storytelling, cutting-edge technology and, of course, heart.”

Photo © Disney

ANAHEIM, Calif. (June 12, 2009) – This summer guests at the Disneyland Resort will celebrate life’s milestones in a huge party under the stars, Summer Nightastic!, and Disneyland will rock like never before at the new, exciting TLT Dance Club in Tomorrowland.

WHAT: Tweens, teens and families will be drawn to the TLT Dance Club at Tomorrowland Terrace in Disneyland. Dazzling décor includes an illuminated DJ console, where the TLT Dance Club DJ will spin the hottest dance tunes, guaranteed to keep Tomorrowland rockin’ all night.

THE SCENE: The music is pulsing, lights are flashing and Disney performers keep the energy flowing and the moves going. Summer nights get a lot hotter as guests get their groove on at this smokin’ summer hotspot. What’s more, guests can snag giveaway items and also test their Disney knowledge in a variety of fun trivia contests.

WHEN: Nightly, beginning Friday, June 12, and continuing through Sunday, Aug. 23, at Disneyland park.

THE MUSIC: Popular Top-40 bands—including Suburban Legends, Reunion, Tomasina and The Bolts—and DJs from the hottest radio stations in LA and San Diego crank up the music and pump up the energy from a stage flanked by flaming columns. The dance floor will be as jam-packed as the schedule:

June 12 to 13 – Suburban Legends
June 15 to 18 -102.7 KIIS-FM
June 19 to 20 - Reunion
June 22 to 25 – Star 94.1 San Diego
June 26 to 27 - Tomasina
June 29 to July 2 - Latino and La Raza
July 3 to 4 – Suburban Legends
July 6 to 9 - 104.3 MYfm
July 10 to 11 – The Bolts
July 13 to 16 - POWER 106
July 17 to 18 - Tomasina
July 20 to 23 - Super Estrella
July 24 to 25 – Reunion
July 26 – Instant Replay
July 27 to 30 - 102.7 KIIS-FM
Aug. 3 to 6 - Channel 933 San Diego
Aug. 10 to 13 – 104.3 MYfm
Aug. 14 to 15 - Reunion
Aug. 17 to 20 - POWER 106
Aug. 21 to 22 - Tomasina

Performances on other dates to be determined

GET YOUR GLOW ON: Guests will light up the night and the dance floor with glow-in-the-dark necklaces and flashing bracelets available at the TLT Dance Club.

VIRTUAL SHOUT-OUTS: Teens and tweens can give virtual “shout-outs” to friends and family by texting the TLT Dance Club, and the texts will appear on giant plasma screens.

“TOP 8@8” COUNTDOWN: What’s more, club-goers can text their favorite songs to TLT Dance Club and the top tunes will be played in a totally cool countdown, “Top 8@8” countdown.

ANAHEIM, Calif./LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (June 3, 2009) – Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton and Disneyland President Ed Grier are squaring off – all in fun – as their local teams, the Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Lakers, head for the NBA Finals.

With both Disney parks asking guests “What Will You Celebrate?” in 2009, Grier and Crofton are getting in the act, making a celebratory wager on the outcome of the NBA Finals:

If the Magic win, Grier will walk down Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park wearing a pair of specially made Mickey Mouse ears in Magic blue and silver. If the Lakers win, Crofton will don a pair of Lakers’ purple and gold mouse ears and walk down Main Street, U.S.A. at Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom.

“The Lakers are going to make your team very Grumpy this week,” predicted Grier to Crofton.

“But we have ‘Magic’ on our side,” countered Crofton. “And isn’t that what Disney is all about?”

Crofton and Grier went through their respective parks Wednesday looking for supporters. Grier shot some hoops with Donald and Pluto in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, while Crofton (along with Minnie, Goofy, Chip and Dale) drummed up Orlando Magic support in front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort.

The park presidents even pledged to turn the lights of their respective castles to their team colors in celebration of the historic pairing.

Anaheim, Calif. April 30, 2009 - For the fourth consecutive year, the Disneyland Resort presented a total of $50,000 in scholarships to 10 exemplary high school seniors for outstanding community service, academic excellence and overall leadership.

Each student receives a $5,000 scholarship to be used toward furthering their education. This year, the selected students were surprised at their schools by a "prize patrol" led by 2009 Disneyland Resort Ambassador Danielle DuBois. The scholarship recipients were congratulated with personalized 2009 mortarboard Mickey Mouse ears and an invitation to a celebratory dinner at the Disneyland Resort May 6, at which they will dine with local government officials, nonprofit leaders, judges and Disney executives.

"Disneyland Resort is proud to recognize these future leaders who share our passion for community service and volunteerism," said Ed Grier, president of Disneyland Resort. "Collectively, these 10 outstanding students have volunteered an astonishing 8,000 hours of service while maintaining a focus on their education. Through these scholarships, we are happy to contribute to their continued success."

The recipients of the 2008-2009 Disneyland Resort scholarship program include:

Aiyana Bobrownicki of Irvine - attends Sage Hill School, Newport Coast

Lauren Brashears of Orange - attends Lutheran High School of Orange County, Orange

Joanna Chen of Anaheim - attends Loara High School, Anaheim

Tiffany Chen of Brea - attends Troy High School, Fullerton

Trevor Geller of Foothill Ranch - attends Trabuco Hills High School, Mission Viejo

Amanda Jeries of Orange - attends Orange County High School of the Arts, Santa Ana

Shelby Kwait of Laguna Niguel - attends Dana Hills High School, Dana Point

Andrew Morrow of Newport Beach - attends Corona del Mar High School, Newport Beach

Aditya Pai Dhungat of Irvine - attends Northwood High School, Irvine

Malinda Seu of Orange - attends El Modena High School, Orange

A distinguished panel of judges reviewed more than 130 applications and selected the 10 college-bound students to receive the scholarships. The judges included:

Ralph Brennan - President, The Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group

Lou Correa - California State Senator

Eileen Frere - Orange County Bureau Chief, ABC

William Habermehl - Orange County Superintendent of Schools

Sandra Hutchens - Orange County Sheriff

Andrea Manes - Owner, The Fun Starts Here!

Bobby McDonald - President and Executive Director, OC Black Chamber of Commerce

Tim Mead - Vice President of Communications, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Jeremy Yamaguchi - 2007 Disneyland Resort Scholarship Recipient and Placentia City Council Member

David Zschernig - 2008 Disneyland Resort VoluntEAR of the Year

All scholarship applicants were recognized for their commitment to community service - their combined efforts totaled a staggering 83,000 hours of volunteer time. In recognition of their efforts, each qualified applicant received two Disneyland Resort park hopper tickets. Each applicant also received The President's Volunteer Service Award (PVSA), which recognizes individuals, families and groups that have achieved a minimum number of community service hours during a 12-month period. The PVSA is designed to thank and honor those who inspire others to engage in volunteer service through their community involvement. Recipients receive an official PVSA pin, a personalized certificate and a note of congratulations from the President of the United States.

"We are grateful to the Disneyland Resort for its long-standing and strong support of education in Orange County," said William M. Habermehl, Orange County Superintendent of Schools. "The Disneyland Resort continually establishes impactful programs that celebrate the educational and community achievements of our students."

ANAHEIM, Calif. - April 24, 2009 - /PRNewswire/— Disneyland guests are dancing down Main Street, U.S.A., with Mickey Mouse and the gang in a high-energy show that celebrates spring at the Disneyland Resort. The party rocks with a new street show, revs up with a new dining experience and swings for six full weeks with Disney's California Food & Wine Festival. Valuable ticket offers and vacation packages add a big bonus to the new entertainment, making this one of the best times ever to experience the magic in Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure parks.

Whether guests are marking a birthday, anniversary, graduation, family reunion, quinceañera or any special occasion, they'll discover that Disneyland Resort is the perfect place to celebrate with favorite characters, world-class attractions and entertainment, and legendary guest service - all the ingredients to make magical Disney memories.

To top it off, some extra-special travel and ticket values are available for a limited time.

"Disneyland Resort has always been a popular destination for celebrations, and we've seen all kinds of celebrations here in 2009," said Ed Grier, president, Disneyland Resort. "With new entertainment and adventures appearing this spring and summer, along with our special vacation value packages, we're offering guests more reasons than ever to celebrate today."

Now through June 3, Southern California families (zip codes 90000-93599 in California, 21000-22999 in Baja California) will find the best value at Disneyland Resort by purchasing the "Southern California 2fer Ticket," which enables guests to visit either Disneyland or Disney's California Adventure one day, then come back on another day to play in the other park, for free! Information is available at www.disneyland.com or by calling (714) 781-7290.

For those planning a multi-day getaway at Disneyland Resort, there's the "2 Nights Free" offer. Guests who purchase a three-night summer vacation package - three nights of hotel accommodations and three days of theme park admission - will receive two more nights at the hotel and two more days of theme park admission. That's a total of five days and nights of Disneyland fun for the price of three. Details on these packages are available at www.disneyland.com or by calling (800) 854-3104.

These travel values are in addition to the first-of-its-kind "Free on Your Birthday" offer - one day's free admission to a Disneyland Resort park with valid ID. More details and online registration for Free on Your Birthday are available at www.disneyparks.com.

Guests who take advantage of these value offers will find plenty of fun at Disneyland Resort, including new celebration experiences.

The whole family can join the action with two new immersive shows this spring at Disneyland. Celebrate! A Street Party is a dazzling street show featuring a cast of nearly 100 dancers, DJs and Disney characters inviting guests along the Disneyland parade route to celebrate with them as they perform more than a dozen musical numbers in a lively presentation that allows some guests to show off their own dance moves in a conga line or twist party.

The best place at the Resort for hearty mouth-watering barbecue fare is Celebration Roundup and Barbecue, a spot where guests can celebrate their special occasions ranch-style with Woody and Jessie from "Toy Story," Chip 'n Dale and festive, country entertainment with live musicians. Located at Big Thunder Ranch in Frontierland, Celebration Roundup and Barbecue features family-style table service with a menu of barbecue chicken and ribs, corn cob wheels, ranch beans, cole slaw, cornbread, watermelon slices and a unique surprise dessert.

At Disney's California Adventure park, guests will enjoy the fourth annual Disney's California Food & Wine Festival, a celebration of the international cultures, people, food and traditions that have made California one of the most diverse culinary destinations in the world. From April 24 through June 7, the Festival features more than 600 experiences, many of them complimentary, including wine and spirits seminars, culinary demonstrations and a Junior Chef program for children. Food and wine aficionados will get tips from award-winning Disneyland Resort chefs, noted winemakers and celebrity chefs such as Guy Fieri. Unique ticketed events include "World Celebration" dinners, two nights of the gala finale "Taste, Food-Wine-Life" and intimate receptions with stars of the food and wine world. Information and reservations for ticketed events are available at www.disneyland.com/foodandwine.

Aspiring young princesses (and knights) will get the full fairy-tale treatment at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, new in Fantasyland at Disneyland. Young girls are greeted by their very own Fairy Godmother-in-training who will magically transform them into the princesses of their dreams with a makeover including hairstyles, make-up and jewels. For boys, a magical experience transforms them into gallant young knights.

At Disney's California Adventure park, guests will find a new lineup at Games of the Boardwalk, along the Paradise Pier Midway. The games, themed to Disney characters for the first time, include "Goofy About Fishin'," a ball-pitch "Casey at the Bat," a "Bullseye Stallion Stampede" horse race, and a water-spray "Dumbo Bucket Brigade."

The Disneyland Resort features two theme parks plus the Downtown Disney District comprised of unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort's three hotels are the luxurious 745-room Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the magical 988-room Disneyland Hotel and the "day-at-the-beach" fun of the 489-room Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. For information on new attractions and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com.

2fer Ticket Details: 2fer tickets are valid for Southern California residents within ZIP Codes 90000-93599 and Northern Baja California residents within ZIP Codes 21000-22999. Proof of residency is required for admission. Admission is valid for one Park each day, but not for both Parks on the same day. Tickets are valid 30 days from first use. First use must occur between 1/6/09-6/3/09. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. Guests may purchase up to 8 tickets per person per day with valid ID. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use. The offer may not be combined with other discounts or promotions. The offer is not valid before 1/6/09 and is subject to restrictions and change without notice. $35 message is based on the purchase price of an adult 2fer Ticket, which is $69. Tickets are $59 for guests ages 3 through 9. Check for entertainment show times. For more information on the 2fer, visit www.disneyland.com or call (714) 781-7290.

"Get 2 Nights Free" offer is valid for bookings from 3/24/09 through 8/11/09 for arrivals at a Disneyland Resort hotel from 4/1/09 through 9/26/09 with travel being completed by 10/1/09, and is valid from 5/1/09 through 9/26/09 at participating Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor hotels with travel completed by 10/1/09. Upon the purchase of a 3-night package, with 3-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets, at a participating hotel for a family of four (2 adults, 1 junior (ages 10 to 17) and 1 child (age 3-9), two (2) consecutive free nights will be added to the hotel stay and two (2) days added to the tickets. Limited to two (2) free nights per package / reservation and not valid for previously booked rooms. Check for offers associated with longer night stays. The Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets expire 13 days after first use or 10/13/09, whichever occurs first, and each day of use of a ticket constitutes one full day of use. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial purposes. Offer subject to availability and blockout dates; advance reservations required. Not valid with any other discount or promotion. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Walt Disney Travel Company CST: 1022229-50, NYST # 2006-0198.

Free on Your Birthday Details. To receive free admission to one of the Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks on your birthday in 2009, guests must bring valid ID including proof of birth date. Guests who have purchased a valid multi-day ticket they will use on their birthday may choose from other birthday treats instead. No cash refunds or credits will be given. To register your birthday and find out more details, visit www.disneyparks.com. For terms and conditions of the Birthday Fun Card and details on participating locations visit disneyparks.com/birthdayfuncard.

ANAHEIM, Calif., April 24 – Disneyland Resort will glow like never before this summer as it debuts an all-new fireworks show, Magical, along with sensational new characters and effects that will brighten the Summer Nightastic! lineup of after-dark entertainment.

WHAT: Guests can see Disneyland Resort in a whole new light as Summer Nightastic! brings nighttime shows and parades to life – bigger, better and brighter. A huge new dragon and other special effects will highlight Fantasmic! Explosive surprises will illuminate the night sky in the all-new fireworks spectacular, Magical. Guests can rock the night away at a new dance club in Tomorrowland. Sparkling new magic comes to “Disney’s Electrical Parade,” as well as to Pixie Hollow, the enchanting home Tinker Bell inhabits with her fairy friends.

WHEN: Nightly, beginning Friday, June 12, and continuing through Sunday, August 23, at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks. All shows and immersive experiences are free with park admission.

A BOLDER FANTASMIC!: Guests will find new thrills at the popular Fantasmic! on the Rivers of America in Frontierland. The evil Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty” transforms into a 40-foot tall, fire-breathing dragon. Ursula the Sea Witch from “The Little Mermaid” introduces her pet eels, Flotsam and Jetsam, who slither into the show with new power. In addition, the Fantasmic! video projections practically leap off the giant mist screens, thanks to HD (high-definition) technology … (in this case, HD takes on a new meaning - Huge Dragon).

AN EXPLODING CELEBRATION IN THE SKY: Magical is a new Disney fireworks spectacular created especially to celebrate Summer Nightastic! at Disneyland. Tinker Bell is once again your host, waving her wand to ignite the brilliant color, stunning special effects and charming music. But she won’t be alone in the sky this summer. Dumbo will make his surprise airborne debut in the new show. Tink’s sparkling touch awakens a fantastic array of Disney’s most magical characters, from Pinocchio to Mary Poppins to Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother, and the Three Good Fairies from “Sleeping Beauty.”

NEW FLOATS BRING NEW MAGIC TO ‘DISNEY’S ELECTRICAL PARADE’: Everything about “Disney’s Electrical Parade” will have a new glow as Tinker Bell leads the way, waving from the basket of a magical balloon aboard a new opening parade float. The parade’s beloved music and floats will feature electrifying audio and lighting technologies, with sparkling pixie dust added to all the parade floats. Snow White and Pinocchio return to the parade this summer as well, after several years’ absence, riding bright new versions of their classic floats.

AN EXCITING NEW DANCE CLUB ‘IGNITES THE NIGHT’ IN TOMORROWLAND: Tweens, teens and families will be drawn to the TLT Dance Club at Tomorrowland Terrace in Disneyland. Dazzling décor will include an illuminated DJ console where the TLT Dance Club DJ will spin the hottest dance tunes, guaranteed to keep Tomorrowland rockin’ all night. Live bands and the hottest Southern California radio stations will appear on select nights throughout the summer.

PIXIE HOLLOW ENCHANTMENT: Tinker Bell and her friends have been welcoming guests into their Pixie Hollow home, tucked into the glen near the entrance to Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, since fall of 2008. This summer, for the first time, nighttime visitors will find magical surprises as Pixie Hollow and the nearby pond come to life in iridescent light shows. Pixie dust cascades across the landscape and radiates down into the pond. Even the water becomes enchanted as playful fountains spring to life, pop jets perform with whimsical precision, and sparkling strobes shine throughout Pixie Hollow.

More information about Summer Nightastic! can be found at www.disneyland.com/summer.

ANAHEIM, Calif., April 24 — Just in time for summer, the Disneyland Resort announces a valuable ticket offer – the 3-Day Summer Fun Pass, available exclusively for residents of Southern California and Northern Baja.

With this special ticket, local residents can play at the Disneyland Resort for three days within a 45-day period, for just $99. Guests who live in zip codes 90000 through 93599, and 21000-22999, will be able to enter both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, enjoying three days of fun for only $33 per day.

The 3-day Summer Fun Pass is available for sale at Disneyland.com, Disney Stores and at the Disneyland Resort box office. Resident ID is required. To skip ticket lines and enjoy straight-to-the-gate convenience, the 3-Day Summer Fun Pass is also sold at local supermarket and retail chains such as Vons, Albertsons, Ralphs, Stater Bros., Food 4 Less, Gelsons, Dearden’s and Toys ‘R’ Us.

Since the first use of the pass must be between June 1 and August 23, 2009, it’s just the ticket for local residents to see Disneyland Resort in a whole new light during SUMMER NIGHTASTIC! Nighttime shows and parades come to life – bigger, better and brighter in this special summer event. Spectacular, state-of-the-art effects, plus an all-new fireworks show highlight the sparkling summer entertainment that runs June 12 through August 23.

"When you combine our Summer Fun Pass with our Summer Nightastic! entertainment, guests get a great value when they visit the Disneyland Resort this summer," said Jill Estorino, senior vice president of marketing for Disneyland Resort. "New energy, new entertainment and a whole new feel will make Disneyland the hottest spot in Southern California this summer for kids of all ages."

Fantasmic! ignites the night with awesome, lifelike creatures and HD takes on a new meaning: Huge Dragon. Appearing in amazing HD animation, the 40-foot tall, fire-breathing dragon practically leaps off the giant mist screens.

A more-dazzling-than-ever “Disney’s Electrical Parade” is now led by Tinker Bell in a new scene, and two classic parade scenes – Snow White and Pinocchio - make their triumphant return to this fan favorite.

Magical is a new, breathtaking fireworks spectacular filling the night sky over Sleeping Beauty Castle. Bursts of color and brilliant visual effects dance in the evening air accompanied by beloved Disney songs. Tinker Bell is once again your host, and Dumbo will make his surprise airborne debut in the new show.

In Tomorrowland, DJs and live bands will play the hottest summer tunes at the TLT Dance Club, and a twinkling trail leads to Pixie Hollow, where Tinker Bell and her Disney fairy friends can be met in a sparkling fantasy world.

# # #

* Summer Fun Pass is a 3-Day Park Hopper® Ticket valid for Southern California residents within ZIP codes 90000-93599 and Northern Baja California residents within ZIP codes 21000-22999. Proof of residency required for admission. TICKET IS NOT VALID ON 7/4/09. Tickets are valid 45 days from first use. First use must occur between 6/1/09 through 8/23/09. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. Limit 8 tickets per person per day with valid ID. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use. Offer may not be combined with other discounts or promotions. Ticket not valid before 6/1/09. Other restrictions may apply. All offers, events, tickets, services, attractions and entertainment are subject to change

Anaheim, Calif. April 22, 2009 - The new central bakery at the Disneyland Resort, used by Cast Members to create the delicious treats Disneyland guests enjoy, opened last month boasting numerous environmentally friendly features.

As with all new construction at the Disneyland Resort, various environmental tactics were researched and implemented. One such initiative is the use of 14 solar tubes that provide natural lighting into the building, significantly reducing the need for electricity. Another effort in energy reduction is the use of ice makers that form an ice block over night and then send chilled water to the air conditioning system to help cool the entire building during the day.

In addition to saving energy, the building uses porous asphalt paving in the parking lot, which captures, filters and returns rain water back into the ground, serving as a natural recycling system. Water reduction is also a part of the conservation program with an underground sprinkler system that is used for the surrounding landscape. The system prevents water evaporation and works on a time clock with humidity sensors - reducing water usage.

"Being environmentally conscious is extremely important to us and we are proud that this new addition to the Disneyland Resort helps conserve resources in so many ways," said Disneyland Resort President Ed Grier.

The new, larger bakery was constructed in response to the Resort's continued growth. The new space is four times the size of the existing pastry kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel. Approximately 8 million products, ranging from wedding cakes to parfaits, are expected to be produced at the new bakery each year.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (March 25, 2009) – With free admission to a theme park on your birthday throughout 2009, new adventures and entertainment at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks, and a special travel offer that will add two free nights to your three-night stay, a visit to the Disneyland Resort this summer offers value-minded vacationers plenty to celebrate.

By purchasing a three-night Disneyland Resort vacation package this summer, guests can magically extend their visit with an offer worth celebrating: Get two more nights free! This special Disneyland summer vacation offer provides a magical and affordable way for families to take in all the new fun and adventures at the Happiest Place on Earth this vacation season.

“We know travelers are looking for great value in their vacations,” said Ed Grier, president, Disneyland Resort. “With the new ‘2 Nights Free’ offer and all of the new entertainment and attractions at our parks, we are providing our Guests with even more reasons to come celebrate with us this summer.”

With the new summer vacation packages, guests pay for three nights of hotel accommodations and three days of theme park admission, and then receive two more nights at the hotel and two more days of theme park admission. Together, the special deal provides guests five days and nights of Disneyland fun, for the price of three.

Bookings for this limited-time offer must be made between March 24 and August 11, 2009. The summer vacation package offer for two more nights free is valid at all three Disneyland Resort Hotels – Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa for arrivals between April 1 and September 26, 2009. Beginning May 1, the offer is also available at participating local Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor Hotels, providing guests with a wide range of hotel accommodations and prices to fit every budget. Guests at a Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor Hotel must also begin their travel by September 26.

New Entertainment and Experiences

In 2009, the Disneyland Resort is pulling out all the stops by asking guests, “What Will You Celebrate?” As part of the yearlong celebration, guests will enjoy many new magical experiences. “Celebrate! A Street Party” launches this spring at Disneyland Park. A cast of dancers, DJs and Disney characters invite guests to join the celebration as they take to the street for a high-energy street party featuring lively music, colorful costumes, confetti and streamers. Guests will join in twist dancing, a conga line and all the colorful fun of a celebration on Main Street, U.S.A., or at “it’s a small world” mall.

Meanwhile, because there’s so much in life worth celebrating, in April, Disneyland Park will also present the Celebration Roundup and Barbecue at Big Thunder Ranch, a good ol’ cowboy-style hoedown featuring food and fun for the whole family.

This summer the Happiest Place on Earth will be the Most Exciting Place on Earth! At Disneyland Park, Fantasmic! is bigger, brighter and bolder than ever before. And the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle will come to life with a spectacular new fireworks show that will have guests celebrating across the Magic Kingdom. Over at Disney’s California Adventure Park, Tinker Bell works her pixie magic and brings a bright new sparkle to the guest-favorite and classic Disney’s Electrical Parade.

In 2009, guests can also visit a Disney park for free on their birthdays. For guests who wish to visit on their birthdays and also take advantage of the paid summer treat of two more nights free, the Resort offers a selection of birthday treat options available with the packages. Just present your valid Park Hopper ticket on your birthday at the Main Entrance ticket booths and receive one of the following options instead of the free theme park birthday admission:

* A birthday FASTPASS ticket for certain attractions for up to six people in the birthday party (the number of birthday FASTPASS tickets is limited and may not be available after 11am; all guests must have valid Theme Park admission). Or…

* A Birthday Fun Card in an amount equal to the price of a 1-Day/1-Park Disneyland Resort ticket (based on general admission price or the reduced admission price for Guests ages 3-9 at the Main Entrance ticket booth, respectively). The Birthday Fun Card can be used at participating locations in the theme parks for select merchandise, Disney’s PhotoPass on-site services and tours. Or…

* A 1-Day/1-Park Ticket that can be used anytime in the next 12 months, starting from the celebrant’s date of birth. This ticket may be used by the Birthday celebrant only.

To book a Disneyland Resort vacation package, visit www.disneyland.com, call (800) 854-3104 or visit your local travel agent. For general Disneyland Resort information, park hours and entertainment schedules, call (714) 781-4565 or visit www.disneyland.com. The summer vacation offer cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Free theme park admission details: To receive free admission to one of the Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks on your birthday in 2009, guests must bring valid ID including proof of birth date. Guests who have purchased a valid multi-day ticket they will use on their birthday may choose from other birthday treats instead. No cash refunds or credits will be given. To register your birthday and find out more details, visit www.disneyparks.com. For terms and conditions of the Birthday Fun Card and details on participating locations visit disneyparks.com/birthdayfuncard.

“Get 2 Nights Free” offer is valid for bookings from 3/24/09 through 8/11/09 for arrivals at a Disneyland Resort hotel from 4/1/09 through 9/26/09 with travel being completed by 10/1/09, and is valid from 5/1/09 through 9/26/09 at participating Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor hotels with travel completed by 10/1/09. Upon the purchase of a 3-night package, with 3-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets, at a participating hotel for a family of four (2 adults, 1 junior (ages 10 to 17) and 1 child (age 3-9), two (2) consecutive free nights will be added to the hotel stay and two (2) days added to the tickets. Limited to two (2) free nights per package / reservation and not valid for previously booked rooms. Check for offers associated with longer night stays. The Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets expire 13 days after first use or 10/13/09, whichever occurs first, and each day of use of a ticket constitutes one full day of use. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial purposes. Offer subject to availability and blockout dates; advance reservations required. Not valid with any other discount or promotion. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Walt Disney Travel Company CST: 1022229-50, NYST # 2006-0198.

Resort donates more than $12.4 million, providing support to tens
of thousands of individuals and families in Southern California

ANAHEIM, Calif. - March 19, 2009 -- The Disneyland Resort has published its 2008 Community Report, which highlights the company's approach to addressing crucial issues related to the environment, the workplace, and the community - with a special emphasis on children and families. The report details the combined outreach efforts and contributions of the Disneyland Resort and its Cast Members, including cash, in-kind donations and volunteer time that totaled more than $12.4 million and touched tens of thousands of lives.

"We are a company known for creativity and innovation and we've applied these concepts not only to our operations and attractions, but also to our approach to community involvement and corporate responsibility," said Ed Grier, Disneyland Resort president. "We give back in a variety of ways that benefit the environment, the community, and our own Cast. I am particularly proud of our 20,000 dedicated and diverse Cast Members who spent nearly 82,000 hours helping others last year."

Disneyland Resort's commitment to assist those in need and to protect the environment was evident through the company and Cast Members' involvement. In 2008:

• Cast Members and Guests recycled more than 5,269 tons of materials.

• Blood donated at Disneyland Resort drives saved 3,306 lives.

• More than $8.6 million of in-kind merchandise and equipment donations were made to schools and community groups and diverted from landfills.

• Disneyland Resort executives served on 47 non-profit and industry boards.

• Nearly 600 children with life-threatening illnesses were granted "wishes" at the Disney Wish Lounge.

Since the company's earliest days, a tradition of community service has been integral to its culture. Walt Disney himself frequently visited children in hospitals and guided resources toward supporting organizations that helped children. The dedication of the new Disneyland Resort Ambulatory Clinic lobby at Children's Hospital of Orange County last May exemplifies this philosophy. The new clinic, funded in part by a $1 million donation from the Disneyland Resort in 2006, continues Walt's legacy of generosity and helps to ensure that children throughout Orange County will continue to receive the critical care at first-rate facilities. Other community partnerships, along with examples of local economic support, can be found in the report.

Disneyland Resort is making concerted efforts to embed environmental stewardship into the decisions and actions of its Cast Members and Guests through its programs and policies. Teams work diligently to identify and understand the impact that Disneyland Resort facilities, operations and products have on the environment. The cornerstones of the Resort's approaches - conserving water, energy and ecosystems, reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions, and inspiring others to take action for the environment - are detailed in the report.

Cast Members' growth and success is encouraged and supported through a number of training and development opportunities. In addition, the Resort offers programs that encourage a healthy and balanced lifestyle both in the workplace and at home. The report highlights several initiatives including the "Disney College Program" and "One Simple Change," demonstrating why working for the Disneyland Resort can be a positive, life-changing experience.

Please click here to see Disneyland Resort's 2008 Community Report. <http://ts.go.com/bk?bs=1&bj=42998666&bu=9448309&bt=170038262> To see additional details of Disneyland Resort community involvement or to obtain a copy of the 2008 Community Report, please visit http://www.disneyland.com/publicaffairs.

Disney's First Official Fan Organization Launches with New Quarterly Publication, Web Site, Fan Events and Collectibles Line
First Quarterly Publication Features Exclusive Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, as well as behind-the-scenes visit to Pixar Animation Studios

Oakland and Burbank, CALIFORNIA (March 10, 2009)/PRNewswire/— Disney today announced the launch of D23 (www.Disney.com/D23), the first official community for Disney fans in the Company's 85-year history. Through D23, fans will go backstage and behind closed doors to get the inside scoop from every part of Disney, while experiencing the nostalgia, adventure and fantasy of Disney as never before.

"We have a fantastic legacy that started in 1923 and is based on timeless stories, beloved characters and unforgettable experiences, but it's our fans that keep the spirit of Disney alive year after year, generation after generation," said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger at the Company's annual shareholder's meeting. "D23 is our way of saying 'thank you' and celebrating our fans, who bring the magic of Disney to life every day in every corner of the world."

As a part of this new Disney fan experience, today also marks the launch of D23's new quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the all-new D23 Web site at Disney.com/D23; and a new collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection, which was created specifically with D23 members in mind. D23 also will host special events for its members throughout the year, highlighted by the organization's signature event, the D23 Expo, which will be held in Anaheim this September 10-13.

A one-year D23 membership ($74.99) includes:

* Disney twenty-three quarterly publication: A one-year subscription (four issues) to D23's new collectible magazine filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and the ultimate Disney insider perspective. This advertising-free keepsake is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney's past, present and future.
* Membership Certificate and Card: The D23 membership card and suitable-for-framing member certificate — both specially created for D23's Charter Year — feature many of Disney's most beloved characters.
* Surprise Collectible Gift and Member Merchandise: Each member who joins D23 will receive an exclusive collectible gift from the new Walt Disney Archives Collection. This merchandise line was created specifically with D23 members in mind, and each piece is authorized by the Walt Disney Archives. D23 members will have exclusive or early access to a wide assortment of Walt Disney Archives Collection pieces.
* D23 Expo and Member Special Events: The D23 Expo — to be held at the Anaheim Convention Center from September 10-13, 2009 — will be "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience," featuring incredible speakers, celebrity appearances, breathtaking exhibitions, interactive experiences, sneak peeks, film screenings, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and much more. All Disney fans are welcome, but D23 members will receive a discount on Expo admissions and early access to the show daily. D23 also offers unique members-only special event opportunities throughout the year.
* Disney.com/D23: All fans can stay connected to Disney every day through D23's new Web site, featuring up-to-the-minute Disney news, feature stories, event info and more, but only D23 members will receive regular email updates on special event and merchandise opportunities exclusive to them.

Disney twenty-three quarterly publication

Disney today launches its new quarterly publication Disney twenty-three, a hybrid entertainment and lifestyle magazine that is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney's past, present and future. Its name pays homage to 1923, the year The Walt Disney Company was founded.

The premiere issue of Disney twenty-three includes exclusive features such as:

* Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens
* Inside look at the new Disney/Pixar animated film Up, featuring interviews with Director Pete Docter and Producer Jonas Rivera, concept and production art, and a look at the new animated short Partly Cloudy.
* A rare look inside Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California. Meet the Pixar team and learn the secrets behind the success of their films.
* The doors open for two of the most exclusive, magical suites in the world: the Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Dream Suite overlooking New Orleans Square and the Rivers of America at the Disneyland Resort.

Disney twenty-three's regular featured departments include:

* A Walk with Walt: A look back at the trials and triumphs of the man who made dreams come true and whose imagination started it all.
* D Society: From gala movie premieres and grand openings to candid Disney moments and memories, D Society takes readers backstage and onto the red carpet.
* PHOTOfiles: The legendary Walt Disney Archives Photo Library houses millions of Disney's most cherished photographic memories, and the Archives team shares its Top 100, five in every issue. Let the countdown begin!
* Where in D?: Try to identify where in the world of Disney each issue's mystery photo was taken.
* The Funny Pages: For the first time in decades, enjoy the vintage newspaper comic strips that helped make many of Disney's most popular characters famous.
* Making Magic: Crafts for children of all ages, inspired by Disney's favorite stories and experiences.
* Recipes from Disney's most popular restaurants and eateries, past and present.

Disney twenty-three subscriptions are available only by becoming a member of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans. Individual issues of Disney twenty-three retail for $15.95 and are available exclusively at all U.S. Barnes & Noble booksellers, all domestic Disney Stores, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, and Disneyshopping.com.

DISNEY.COM/D23

The D23 site on Disney.com will serve as the premier online destination for Disney fans, highlighted by breaking Disney news, exclusive feature stories, blogs, historical retrospectives, a collectibles boutique, special event information, and other content. The D23 online experience includes News & Features, Walt Disney Archives, Disney twenty-three, Expo & Events, and Boutique23. Highlights include:

NEWS & FEATURES

* Late-breaking news, press releases, and photos of interest to fans from every part of Disney.
* "Twilight Bark" — inspired by the Disney animated feature 101 Dalmatians — offers up the latest tidbits and news "bites" from all around the world of Disney.
* Feature articles and interviews on current Disney topics from theme parks and animation to television and motion pictures, as well as historical retrospectives.
* Official Disney Bloggers — Get regular updates on films in production at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, current Walt Disney Imagineering projects, and the Walt Disney Archives.

WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES

* "This Day in Disney" — A daily walk down memory lane.
* "What's Old Is News" — Go back in time and enjoy rare, vintage and classic articles, stories, interviews, press materials and other highlights from deep within the Disney Archives.
* "Ask Dave" — Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Dave Smith answers your questions about Disney history.
* "Archives Library" — helpful Disney reference tools including biographies, filmographies, award chronologies, Disney A to Z updates, historical profiles and other archival information.

DISNEY TWENTY-THREE

* The online home of Disney twenty-three, D23's quarterly publication.
* Expanded stories, interviews and imagery.
* "D Society: Online Edition" — regularly updated photo gallery.
* "The Funny Page: Daily Edition" — a delightful daily dose of vintage Disney comics that haven't been seen outside the Disney Archives in decades.
* "Making Magic" — An archive of the unique crafts featured in Disney twenty-three.
* "Disney Dish" — Always be able to find your favorite recipes from Disney twenty-three.

EXPO & EVENTS

* "D23 Expo" — The official Web site for everything you need to know about "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience" September 10-13, at the Anaheim Convention Center, including programming, show hours, celebrity appearances, keynote speakers, ticket information, vacation packages, and more.
* "D23 Member Special Events" — Throughout the year, D23 hosts special events created just for its members. Members can find out which ones they want to attend and how to register.

BOUTIQUE 23

* D23 merchandise and collectibles, including D23 member-only offerings from the Walt Disney Archives Collection
* Hosted by Disneyshopping.com

D23 membership

D23 membership is not required to visit Disney.com/D23, but some merchandise and special event opportunities are exclusive to D23 members.

Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, all Disney Store locations within the United States, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, and www.DisneyShopping.com/D23.
About D23

The name "D23" pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. Through the years, Disney has captured the imagination of millions around the world, and, as requested by Disney fans everywhere, D23 gives them a greater, richer connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic.

Photo © Disney

(February 23, 2009) Child actors from "Slumdog Millionaire" celebrate the film's Oscar win for Best Picture with Mickey Mouse at Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., on Monday. Pictured: Ayush Mahesh Khedekar (Young Jamal), Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail Sheikh (Young Salim), Rubina Ali Rafiq Qureshi (Young Latika), Tanvi Ganesh Lonkar (Middle Latika), Ashutosh Lobo Gajiwala (Middle Salim), Tanay Hemant Chheda (Middle Jamal) and Madhur Mittal (older Salim). (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland)

'What Will You Celebrate' Kicks Into High Gear This Spring at Disneyland Resort; Special Vacation Packages Add Value Now Through April

Anaheim, CA / FEBRUARY 5, 2009 /PRNewswire/ — A favorite Disneyland attraction returns to Fantasyland, Friday, Feb. 6, when "it's a small world" opens with some new storytelling magic. With the premiere of a new "Spirit of America" scene, new musical enhancements and a new look for some of the attraction's familiar child dolls, "it's a small world" will once again take guests of all ages on "the happiest cruise that ever sailed."

This classic attraction has been renovated and enhanced while retaining the world-renowned charm that holds such a special place in the hearts of Disneyland guests. The "it's a small world" journey continues to celebrate children of the world and their message of harmony and friendship. And now, for the first time, guests will be able to find some of the child dolls dressed as their favorite Disney characters, in the countries where their stories take place. For example, dolls dressed in Aladdin and Jasmine costumes are in the Middle East scene, and a doll dressed as Alice from "Alice in Wonderland" appears in the Great Britain scene.

Guests will enjoy riding "it's a small world" again and again as they search for the 29 Disney and Disney·Pixar characters now represented in the attraction. The new doll costumes and playful toy decorations are fashioned in the same artistic style that was created by art director, color stylist, Disney Legend and Imagineer Mary Blair, whose sense of design shaped "it's a small world" from the beginning.

Also among the enhancements is an entirely new "Spirit of America" scene. It's based on original concept art by Mary Blair and maintains the "it's a small world" theme that friendship crosses all nationalities, including that of the United States. Additional fresh touches may be found in the augmented "it's a small world" soundtrack. As the familiar "it's a small world" plays throughout the attraction, now some subtle film music is seamlessly woven into the song as counterpoint melodies fitting the characters represented in certain scenes.

The "it's a small world" attraction made its debut as an exhibit at the 1964-65 New York World's Fair. After two hit seasons at the fair, the attraction moved to Disneyland in California where it was expanded and then dedicated by Walt Disney himself on May 28, 1966.

The refreshed "it's a small world" is just one highlight of the year in which guests are invited to celebrate milestones, large and small, at the Disneyland Resort. The year will also see a variety of new shows and other immersive experiences in Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure parks as the Resort asks, "What Will You Celebrate?"

In addition, now through April 30 the Resort offers special travel values that make celebrating easier than ever.

Guests may book a three-day vacation package for as little as $68 per person, per day with the "Everyone Plays for the Kid's Price" package. Travel must be completed by April 30. Each package includes two-night hotel accommodations at a nearby Good Neighbor Hotel, three-day Park Hopper Tickets, Magic Morning entrance (to enjoy select theme park attractions before Disneyland opens to regular guests), an interactive Disney character experience in Mickey's Toontown, and preferred seating at select attractions and restaurants at Disneyland Resort. For more information, contact your travel agent, visit www.disneyland.com or call Disney at 1-866-276-6780.

Now through April 30, guests who stay at one of the three on-site Disneyland Resort hotels – Disneyland Hotel, Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – will receive a Disney Gift Card: $50 for a two-night stay, $100 for a three-night stay, or $150 for a four-night stay. The gift cards are provided upon check-in and available for use at any of the Disney-owned restaurants and stores located inside Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure theme parks, Disneyland Resort hotels and Downtown Disney.

New This Spring, as Disneyland Resort asks "What Will You Celebrate?"

Throughout 2009, Disneyland Resort will introduce new experiences and planning options to help guests celebrate the special moments in their lives, including birthdays, anniversaries and graduations. Mementos, souvenirs, food and dessert options will be introduced throughout the year.

Free On Your Birthday – To put everyone in a celebration mood, for the first time ever Disneyland Resort is offering guests free admission to one theme park on their birthdays. Guests can register at www.disneyparks.com.

Celebrate! A Street Party – Beginning Friday, March 27, at Disneyland, a cast of dancers, DJs and Disney characters will invite guests to join the celebration as they take to the street for a high-energy street party featuring lively music, colorful costumes, confetti and streamers. Guests can join in twist dancing, a conga line and all the colorful fun of a celebration on Main Street, U.S.A., or at "it's a small world" mall.

Celebration Roundup and Barbecue at Big Thunder Ranch – Disneyland guests can celebrate any occasion cowboy-style when the Celebration Roundup opens this April at Big Thunder Ranch in Frontierland. Disney characters will join in the rootin' tootin' entertainment, while diners enjoy Western-style ribs and chicken in the new outdoor Big Thunder Family Barbecue restaurant.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Every little girl's dream of becoming a Disney princess can come true in this magical makeover location, opening in April in Fantasyland. Fairy Godmothers-in-training will transform would-be princesses with makeover options including hair, makeup and nail polish designs.

Blue Sky Cellar – As the multi-year expansion continues at Disney's California Adventure Park, the Walt Disney Imagineering preview center/workshop inside the park will be changing and adding new concept art and other sneak peeks at the exciting new projects coming soon. Meanwhile, some newly transformed attractions will reopen this spring.

Mickey's Fun Wheel – The thrilling giant Ferris wheel attraction (formerly the Sun Wheel) on Paradise Pier will return this spring with a new look and a fun new Mickey Mouse theme. Riders will board newly redecorated cars to swing along the circular route around a giant replica of Mickey's face.

Games of the Boardwalk – The Paradise Pier Boardwalk games, closed for renovation when the dazzling, immersive Toy Story Mania! attraction opened in summer of 2008, will return this spring with a colorful new look featuring, for the first time, Disney characters as part of the play experience.

Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney's California Adventure park – plus the downtown Disney District composed of unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort's three guest-welcoming hotels are the luxurious 745-room Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the magical 988-room Disneyland Hotel and the "day-at-the-beach" fun of the 489-room Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. For further information on attractions, events and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call (866) 60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.

Free theme park admission details: - To receive free admission to one of the Disneyland or Walt Disney World theme parks on your birthday in 2009, guests must bring valid ID including proof of birth date. Guests who already hold a valid multi-day ticket they will use on their birthday may choose from other birthday treats instead, however, no cash refunds or credits will be given. To register your birthday and find out more details, visit www.disneyparks.com.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. / ANAHEIM, Calif. (Jan. 5, 2009) – As Disney Parks ask “What Will You Celebrate?” and invite guests to turn their personal milestones into magical family vacations in 2009, America’s military personnel will have one more reason to celebrate: Free multi-day admission to Disney’s U.S. theme parks.

With the “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” offer, active and retired U.S. military personnel, including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard and activated members of the National Guard or Reservists, can enjoy complimentary, multi-day admission into Disney’s U.S. theme parks, great rates at select Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort hotels, and additional special ticket offers for family members and friends.

“For so many of the men and women who serve in our U.S. military, time together with their families is cause enough for celebration,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “We are grateful for their service and hope ‘Disney’s Armed Forces Salute’ will allow our troops to create wonderful, magical memories with their family and friends.”

At the Disneyland Resort in Southern California:

Through June 12, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military can receive one complimentary three-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” Park Hopper ticket valid for admission to both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks. During the offer period, active or retired U.S. military personnel also may make a one-time purchase of an adult or child three-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion” Park Hopper ticket for up to five family members (including spouse) or friends for the price of an adult 1-Day Park Hopper ticket.

Disneyland Resort hotels are also offering special room rates for active or retired military personnel. For example, at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, active or retired members of the military and their families may find hotel rooms starting at $119 per night during value season, with great savings during other times of the offer period. This offer is available through June 12, 2009, and the number of rooms available at these special rates is limited.

For information regarding “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” at the Disneyland Resort, or to make reservations, military personnel may call 714/956-6424.

At Walt Disney World Resort in Florida:

Through Dec. 23, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military may obtain one complimentary 5-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” ticket withPark Hopper andWater Park Fun & More options. This ticket is valid for five days of admission into the four Walt Disney World theme parks, plus a total of five visits to a choice of a Disney water park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park or certain other attractions. During this offer period, active or retired U.S. military personnel may also make a one-time purchase of up to a maximum of five 5-Day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion” tickets(one theme park per day) for $99 per ticket, plus tax, for family members (including spouse) or friends. Although this ticket for family members and friends does not include either the Park Hopper or Water Park Fun & More options, this ticket can be upgraded to add either such option, or both, for an additional $25, plus tax, per option. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by Dec. 23, 2009.

Ask about the great rates that may be available at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for active or retired U.S. military personnel during this offer period.

For information on the “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” offer at Walt Disney World Resort or the Disneyland Resort, or to make reservations, active and retired U.S. Military personnel may call the ITT office on their base. Information about “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” offer at Walt Disney World Resort is also available at www.disneyworld.com/military.

Through the years, The Walt Disney Company has demonstrated its support of United States’ servicemen and women through a variety of initiatives. Disney’s support for the U.S. Marines’ Toys for Tots program started 58 years ago – when Walt Disney became one of the original sponsors. Since 1995, Disney’s Operation Uplift program has sent over 90,000 postcards to troops worldwide, thanking them for their service. The company also supports U.S. service members and their families as a sponsor of the USO and its centers. Each year, Operation Disney Care packages, containing Disney DVDs, books, magazines and games, are sent to centers around the world to help entertain the servicemen/women and their families, Disney Minnie Grants are used to host family appreciation events, while Disney VoluntEARS donate many hours participating in local USO projects.

Other Offer Details:
· Complimentary "Disney’s Armed Forces Salute" tickets may be obtained only by active or retired U.S. military personnel, including activated members of the National Guard or Reservists (with orders showing active status after Jan. 1, 2008) and active or retired members of the United States Coast Guard. Spouses are not eligible.
· Complimentary “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute" tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort can be obtained only at participating U.S. military base ticket offices (including at the Shades of Green Resort at the Walt Disney World Resort), or at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows. Military personnel will need to activate those tickets at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows in order to use those tickets (no more than 1 such complimentary ticket per service member will be activated).
· Please see a participating U.S. military base ticket office for an exchange certificate for the complimentary “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” ticket for the Disneyland Resort. The exchange certificate will need to be redeemed for such ticket by the active or retired military personnel at a Main Entrance theme park ticket window (maximum of 1 such complimentary ticket per service member).
· "Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets for family members and friends may be purchased only by active or retired U.S. military personnel, including activated members of the National Guard or Reservists (with orders showing active status after Jan. 1, 2008) and active or retired members of the United States Coast Guard (or, in each case, their spouses, but not both).
· "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort can be purchased only at participating U.S. military base ticket offices (including at the Shades of Green Resort at the Walt Disney World Resort), or at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows. “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort can be purchased only at participating U.S. military base ticket offices.
· Military personnel (or their spouses) who purchase "Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion” tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort for family members and friends will need to activate those tickets at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows in order for those tickets to be used (regardless of where those tickets are purchased). Actual prices for such tickets may be less than prices shown above.
· Military personnel (or their spouses) who purchase "Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion” tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort for family members and friends will receive exchange certificates to be redeemed by such military personnel (or their spouses) for tickets at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows (one ticket per exchange certificate).
· The military personnel (or spouse) will be required to present valid military identification (which, for activated members of the National Guard or Reservists, also includes orders showing active status after Jan. 1, 2008) for all ticket transactions (including to activate tickets, and/or redeem exchange certificates for tickets, at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows). A valid ID may also be required for admission.
· "Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion” tickets are limited to five per service member (regardless of place of purchase and whether purchased by service member or spouse) and all five must be purchased at the same time. Accordingly, no service member (or spouse) will be permitted to activate, and/or to redeem exchange certificates for, more than a total of five "Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets for the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort (regardless of whether activated or exchanged by the service member or spouse).
· First day of use of “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” complimentary tickets and "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets at the Disneyland Resort must be no later than June 12, 2009,and tickets expire 13 days after the first day of use or June 25, 2009, whichever occurs first. Last day of use on “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” complimentary tickets and "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets at the Walt Disney World Resort is Dec. 23, 2009.
· Tickets must be used by the same person on any and all days. "Disney’s Armed Forces Salute" complimentary tickets may be used only by the service members to whom they are issued. "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets may be used only by the friends and family members for whom they are purchased.
· This offer may not be combined with any other offer.

“What Will You Celebrate?”

Military personnel taking advantage of this offer will find even more to celebrate during their stay. Beginning now, Disney Parks is embracing a newly identified nationwide travel trend called “celebration vacations,” in which Americans mark special occasions in their lives with a family vacation.

In 2009, Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resorts ask guests “What Will You Celebrate?” and lead this growing trend with new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones –a birthday, an anniversary, Quinceañera or any special occasion – into magical Disney experiences.

ANAHEIM, CALIF, December 15, 2008 - As Disneyland Resort celebrates the holiday gift-giving season, a newly launched Monthly Payment Program for Annual Passholders will make it easier for Southern California residents to have their own frequent Disneyland Resort celebrations in the year to come.

This new program lets Southern California residents enjoy the Disneyland Resort magic throughout the year with an Annual Passport, while paying in 12 monthly installments.

By selecting the payment option, Guests will pay for the cost of a 1-Day, 1-Park ticket upon purchase and will pay the remaining amount over the next 12 months, with no finance charges applied. For example, a Guest purchasing a Southern California Select Annual Passport for $134 would pay $69 at the time of purchase - with the remaining balance of $65 spread out over the next 12 months.

"Annual Passports provide a great entertainment value and flexibility for our Guests who make frequent visits to our parks throughout the year," said Jill Estorino, senior vice president of Marketing for the Disneyland Resort. "Through this new program, Guests can literally turn a one-day ticket into an Annual Pass for less than $6 a month.

"This program was based on feedback from our current Annual Passholders - and we're excited to provide them with this new option just in time for the holidays," added Estorino.

The Monthly Payment program for Annual Passports is offered only to Southern California residents within the 90000 and 93599 zip codes.

All Annual Passport options are available through the program, including Premium, Deluxe, Southern California and Southern California Select Annual Passports. The program is available only at the ticket booths. Next year, it will be offered for online purchases.

The interior of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, long closed to guests, will "reawaken" in time for Thanksgiving. A vibrant new version of the classic walkthrough attraction features colorful scenes of Aurora, her gallant prince, the evil Maleficent and other characters from the beloved fairy tale film.

The attraction is scheduled to open at 5 p.m. Wednesday, kicking off the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

This revived Sleeping Beauty Castle "show" differs from the window-display dioramas which could be seen in the castle during the 1980s and '90s. It takes its inspiration from the unique style of the original Disneyland castle walkthrough attraction of 1957, co-designed by animation art director and color stylist Eyvind Earle, who was credited with giving the motion picture "Sleeping Beauty" its distinctive and colorful look of storybook illustrations in medieval style.

Enhanced with new scenes and special-effects magic, the re-Imagineered attraction employs technology not available in the 1950s to tell the story of Sleeping Beauty, including the magic of good fairies Flora, Fauna and Merryweather, and the more sinister spells of the evil Maleficent.

For the first time, guests who are unable to climb stairs or navigate the passageways of the Castle will be able to experience the walkthrough "virtually" in a special room on the ground floor of the Castle.

REAWAKENED BEAUTY -- In time for the Thanksgiving holiday, Disneyland guests will once again experience the story of "Sleeping Beauty" inside the new walkthrough attraction located inside the famous Disneyland castle. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland)

The Merriest Of Holiday Celebrations Make Spirits Brighter Than Ever At Disneyland Resort

ANAHEIM, Calif. (November 11, 2008) – When it comes to celebrating the magic and sparkle of the holidays, there’s no place like the Disneyland Resort, the Merriest Place on Earth. From November 21 through January 4, the annual Disneyland Resort holiday celebration will be more dazzling than ever.

Guests will enjoy the return of the holiday’s most popular offerings as well as be immersed in new entertainment at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks.

Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, first introduced in 2007, will be decorated even more elaborately this holiday season with additional snowdrifts and icicles. After dark, a sensational new holiday lighting and special effects show will carry the magic of the holidays from the Castle all the way to the Christmas Tree in Town Square. And, for the first time in 53 years, the Christmas Tree will be completely artificial, which enables Disneyland to present a holiday light show like no other with more than 62,000 energy-efficient LED lights.

The Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle presentation unfolds throughout the evening in three acts, each of them featuring a touch of winter snow on Main Street, U.S.A. The finale of the show includes the legendary “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks show, which takes guests on a journey of sights and sounds of the season and ends with a touching rendition of “White Christmas” along with a climactic snowfall swirling down on Main Street, U.S.A., “small world mall” and New Orleans Square.

New this year, just in time for the holidays and for the first time in seven years, guests will walk through the iconic home of Sleeping Beauty. A “reawakened” Sleeping Beauty Castle show tells the story of “Sleeping Beauty” in a style reminiscent of the Disneyland Castle walkthrough of earlier years, but enhanced with 21st-century special effects.

Themed entertainment, sparkling decorations and tasty treats add festive warmth to holiday fun at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. Guests can also book guided holiday tours that provide expedited entry into the “it’s a small world” holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, VIP seating for the Disneyland “A Christmas Fantasy” parade and entertaining information about the history behind Disneyland holiday traditions. For information and reservations guests can visit Disneyland City Hall or call (714) 781-4400.

Other returning holiday favorites at Disneyland park include:

• Santa’s Reindeer Round-up, which transforms Big Thunder Ranch into a “West Pole” getaway where Santa can unwind with Mrs. Claus and his team of reindeer. Kids and their families will chat with St. Nick, see real reindeer grazing in a corral, play some reindeer games, create take-home Yuletide souvenirs and join in holiday line dances with music from a Western trio.

• “A Christmas Fantasy” parade will be presented November 21 through January 4 on Main Street, U.S.A. This ever-popular procession depicts an enchanting collection of holiday scenes, music and a cast of Disney characters and performers in Yuletide vignettes.

• Haunted Mansion Holiday presents a madcap celebration as the traditions of Halloween and Christmas collide. The ghoulish but well-meaning Jack Skellington from the film Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas has come to the Haunted Mansion to transform it with his skewed vision of the holidays.

• “it’s a small world” holiday transforms “it’s a small world” into a worldwide celebration of the season, boasting more than 300,000 glittering lights on its facade.

Disney’s California Adventure celebrates the season with fanciful park-wide decorations and lively entertainment.

• Guests approaching the park will immediately get in the holiday mood as they encounter the iconic “CALIFORNIA” letters transformed to appear as swirling red and white peppermint sticks.

• “a bug’s land” transforms as Flik and his bug buddies spread giant Christmas lights and oversized ornaments throughout their realm.

• The holiday scene at Paradise Bay includes a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, hundreds of sparking lights on nearby trees, and lampposts decorated with seasonal wreaths.

The Downtown Disney District and the Disneyland Resort hotels will join in the merriment with twinkling lights and ornaments, special entertainment and holiday dining.

Just in time for the holidays, new entertainment comes to life in both parks. At Disney’s California Adventure, the daily “Pixar Play Parade” is joined three times each day by performances of the energetic, traveling rock and dance concert show, “High School Musical 3: Senior Year – Right Here! Right Now!” Also new to Disney’s California Adventure is the Blue Sky Cellar, a Walt Disney Imagineers’ workshop that offers guests a preview of new attractions coming to the park over the next few years.

At Disneyland, in addition to the reopening of the doors to Sleeping Beauty Castle, guests have a new opportunity to explore the world of Tinker Bell inside Pixie Hollow, a magical place where visitors meet “Tink” and her pixie friends.

Expanded hours at both Disneyland Resort theme parks will extend the holiday fun. For more information about holidays at the Disneyland Resort, and to send Disneyland Resort e-card holiday greetings to friends and relatives, visit www.disneyland.com/holidays.

Disneyland Resort A Great Spot For Holiday Shopping, From Passes To Unique Gift Items

ANAHEIM, Calif. – As the 2008 holiday season approaches, Disneyland Resort offers magical gift ideas for all ages. The Resort gift list includes toys, dolls, collectible art and unique items such as personalized mouse ears and toy light sabers. Shoppers can find everything from stocking stuffers to the ultimate gift for a Disneyland fan: the Disneyland Resort Annual Passport.

The Annual Passport is an ideal and practical gift for anyone who visits the Resort more than two or three times per year … or would like to! The gift of a Disneyland Resort Annual Passport will enable the recipients – family members, friends and Disney fans in general – to celebrate throughout the year with the magic of Disneyland Resort.

Along with admission to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, the gift of an Annual Passport entitles the Passholder to attend special Annual Passholder events, enjoy discounts at many Resort food locations and Downtown Disney vendors, take advantage of special rates at Disneyland Resort hotels, and receive regular updates on new events and Annual Passholder benefits through the exclusive Annual Passholder Web site, the collectible “Backstage Pass” newsletter and e-mail. In 2008, Annual Passholder benefits included exclusive opportunities to preview the new Toy Story Mania and Innoventions Dream Home attractions, the Pixar Play Parade and the one-of-a-kind Disneyland Dream Suite.

Disneyland Resort offers an Annual Pass option for every lifestyle and budget. The Premium Annual Passport is valid every day of the year. Other Annual Passports have “blockout dates” but entitle the bearer to purchase discounted “blockout day” tickets.

• The $134 Southern California Select Annual Passport (for California residents living in zip codes 90000-93599) offers 170 pre-selected days of admission to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure.

• The $174 Southern California Annual Passport (for California residents living in zip codes 90000-93599) offers 215 pre-selected days of admission.

• The $269 Deluxe Annual Passport offers 315 pre-selected days of admission.

• The $389 Premium Annual Passport offers daily admission to both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure and includes parking in the Mickey & Friends parking structure off Disneyland Drive. Premium Annual Passholders also enjoy special discounts at many Resort food and merchandise locations.

(Passholders of the Southern California Select, Southern California and Deluxe Annual Passports may purchase a $59 annual parking pass for Mickey & Friends.)

Disneyland Resort Annual Passports may be purchased at Disneyland Resort ticket booths or online at www.disneyland.com.

More Gift Ideas - Shopping at Disneyland Resort

From the long-established Disneyland Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A., to the numerous specialty shops in Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, Downtown Disney and the Resort hotels, Disneyland Resort offers many options for the holiday shopper.

Personalized Mouse Ears and Tomorrowland Light Sabers can be fashioned especially for that Disneyland or Star Wars fan. Design your own Light Saber grip and select the color of your energy beam! Limited-edition holiday plush toys and bean bag toys will be available for holiday gift-giving, including Mickey and Minnie beanies in holiday attire embroidered with holiday messages. An all-new line of Princesses and their pets premiers in November, featuring plush versions of Cinderella with her dog Bruno, Jasmine with her tiger Rajah, etc. Specially designed pens, PokitPals (to carry pills and other small objects), collectible pins and Disney’s Wild Racers (“Cars With Character”) will make ideal stocking-stuffers.

For the serious Disney fan and collector, there are limited-edition holiday art works, the annual holiday edition Marie Osmond doll, and Vinylmation “mystery pins,” available only at Disney theme parks in a variety of offbeat character designs.

Each of the shops at Downtown Disney will have its own holiday offerings. As usual, Disney Vault 28 will be on the cutting edge with apparel and accessories by jewelry designer Tarina Tarantino, Billy Martin (guitarist for Good Charlotte) and others.

Companies Align to Bring Unprecedented New Experiences to Guests at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort…and Right on Their Verizon Wireless Phones

November 12, 2008 - Marking a first in both the travel and mobile industries, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Verizon are teaming up for a multi-year relationship designed to enhance the guest experience – before, during and after guests arrive at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. This alignment allows guests to have a personal tour guide right in their wireless phones along with reliable new services at the parks. Early next year guests will also use Verizon Wireless’ technology when experiencing Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, an ultra-interactive attraction coming to Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort.

“With more than 90 percent of families bringing a mobile phone into our Parks, our objective was to enhance the magical Disney experience through innovative wireless technology,” said Jay Rasulo, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Imagine receiving up to the minute tips on special Park activities with just the touch of a button or receiving a call from Buzz Lightyear welcoming you to the Magic Kingdom.”

Beginning next year, guests will be able to access an array of features on their Verizon Wireless phones while at the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort to help them make the most of their Disney experiences. Planned services include an exclusive mobile application that will give guests with Verizon Wireless service the ability to easily locate shows, restaurants and the Disney characters anywhere inside the Parks; get real-time attraction availability information; access mobile games; receive messages from characters and more. Verizon Wireless is also continuing to invest in its wireless network from coast to coast, and the relationship with Disney means the wireless users will benefit from further enhancements to the Verizon Wireless network in the Parks.

John Harrobin, senior vice president of digital media and marketing for Verizon, said, “All of our efforts focus on one goal: making the Disney experience even better for our customers. There are few life experiences that are more memorable than visiting a Disney Park, and now guests with Verizon Wireless service will unlock even more magic from their visit – by navigating the Parks easier and faster with instant access to key information such as ‘Where’s Mickey now?’ and other special features – even when they travel home and share their experiences with family and friends.”

In addition, guests visiting Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort in early 2009 will be among the first to experience Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure. An ultra-interactive attraction, Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure invites guests of all ages to team up with members of Team Possible to save the world from various comical villains and their mad inventions. Armed with an official Verizon Wireless “Kimmunicator,” guests will use these handheld devices to help maneuver through the mission. The interactive wireless theme park game was inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy® Award-winning animated series, “Kim Possible.”

While Verizon Wireless customers will have exclusive access to an array of enhanced features, Disney and Verizon are also working to ensure that some mobile information such as dining locations, show times and locations will be available to all Parks visitors, regardless of their wireless company.

Additional details will be available next year as the companies expect to add a suite of services and functionalities to help guests at Disney Parks have the most magical experience. For more information about Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, visit www.disney.com. For more information about Verizon, visit www.verizon.com.

Disney Parks and Resorts – Taking Guests to New Frontiers

The agreement between Disney and Verizon is another step in a series of new initiatives that highlight the latest technologies from Disney Parks and Resorts with a continued focus on improving guest experience and providing immersive entertainment. Disney Parks and Resorts continue to exemplify how technologies can be used to build new connections and redefine how guests plan and enjoy their vacations. From the time guests begin planning their vacation using Walt Disney World Resort in 3D on Google Earth or tuning into Disney Travel on Demand, the experience is designed to make their lives easier. Guests can take their vacation experience to a new level with Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, an interactive wireless theme park game for families, and by personalizing and sharing their Disney experiences when they return home, using DisneyLink, a desktop application.

About Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts is where dreams come true and magic comes to life. This segment of The Walt Disney Company encompasses 11 theme parks at five of the world’s leading family vacation destinations – Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Resort Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland. It also includes: Disney Cruise Line; Disney Vacation Club; Adventures by Disney; Disney Regional Entertainment, which operates the ESPN Zone sports dining and entertainment centers; World of Disney stores in New York, Orlando and Anaheim; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions. Walt Disney Parks and Resorts had approximately $10 billion in revenues in fiscal 2006. More information about Disney Travel on Demand and all of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts can be found at www.DisneyParks.com.

About Verizon

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a leader in delivering broadband and other wireline and wireless communication innovations to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving nearly 71 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations include Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world, and Verizon Telecom, which brings customers the benefits of converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 228,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of $93.5 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

ANAHEIM, Calif., Oct. 17, 2008 –- Before an audience of more than 1,000 Cast Members, media and former Ambassadors, Disneyland Resort President Ed Grier announced the 2009 Disneyland Resort Ambassador Team at Disneyland today. Cast Members Danielle DuBois and Quinn Shurian will serve as the 44th team to represent the resort and its Cast as the 2009 Disneyland Resort Ambassadors.

“Being chosen to represent 20,000 Disneyland Resort Cast Members is an incredible honor and one of the highest achievements of a Disney Cast Member. This program is a unique and important part of our company’s heritage,” said Disneyland Resort President Ed Grier. “These two Cast Members will take the magic and good will of Disneyland throughout our community and beyond in the coming year.”

The prestigious honor of being selected as a Disney Ambassador began during the 10th anniversary of Disneyland, when Walt Disney realized the need for an additional representative to help fulfill the many media, public appearance and VIP hosting requests he received. He selected the very first Ambassador in 1965 and the tradition has continued ever since.

Today, the Ambassador selection process involves months of preparation and interviews with fellow Cast Members and executives where candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate the depth of their Disney knowledge and their passion about being a Disney Cast Member.

The new Ambassador team will represent the company during the recently announced “What Will You Celebrate?” campaign. The celebration runs through 2009 and invites all guests to mark their special occasions at a Disney park in a way only Disney can provide. Their full-time duties include participating in more than 200 events from - Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2009 - including Cast Member recognition ceremonies, grand openings, marketing events, special promotions and media interviews. They will also host dignitaries and other VIPs at Disneyland Resort.

In 2006, DuBois began her career at the Disneyland Resort as a lead and trainer in the imaging department. Prior to that, DuBois lived in Yokohama, Japan and served as an English teacher to students that ranged in age from 3 to 80 years old. After attending California State University, Chico, where she received a degree in communication design, DuBois participated in the Up With People Worldsmart program – an international community service youth group. For one year, DuBois dedicated her time to giving back through performances and activities in 18 countries. DuBois attended College Park High School in Pleasant Hill and currently resides in Irvine, Calif.

Shurian began his career at Disneyland in attractions in 1994 and had roles in Guest Relations and Guest Communications before reaching his current position as a communications specialist in Cast Communications. He also is an Adventure Guide for Adventures by Disney – traveling around the world sharing his passion for Disney with families on vacation. Shurian has been a Disney VoluntEAR for nearly 10 years – dedicating time to various projects around the community. Two of those years he has held spots on the Disney VountEARS Leadership Council. Shurian attended Newbury Park High School and currently resides in Orange, Calif.

Abundance of Fall Fun at Disneyland Resort as New Shows and Attractions Enhance Traditional Halloween and Holiday Seasons

ANAHEIM, Calif. (October 2008) - The giant Mickey Mouse Jack-o’-Lantern and the Town Square Christmas Tree will be the symbols of celebration for their respective holidays at Disneyland this fall. But the traditional fan favorites are only the beginning as Disneyland Resort welcomes new shows and immersive experiences, along with an exciting preview of things to come at Disney’s California Adventure park.

It’s all part of the fun as Disney Parks poses the question to guests: “What Will You Celebrate?” Whether it’s the holidays, an anniversary, a family reunion or another special occasion, there’s something for everyone at Disneyland Resort.

Beginning later in October, guests can enjoy an array of new attractions at Disneyland Resort, adding to the fun of the Halloween and Holiday seasons.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3: On Friday, Oct. 24, “High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!” premieres at Disney’s California Adventure. The new street show celebrates the infectious energy of the upcoming theatrical motion picture “High School Musical 3: Senior Year.” Featuring a cast of 14 dynamic singers and dancers, the show takes place on a traveling “rock concert” stage with stacks of speakers and rows of lights. Interactive sequences featuring hot new songs from the movie will draw guests into the streets of Disney’s California Adventure for an exciting live concert experience.

PIXIE HOLLOW: The magical realm of Pixie Hollow appears in Disneyland on Tuesday, October 28. Entering along a pathway with an enchanted pool, between the entrances of Fantasyland and Tomorrowland, guests are gradually immersed into the community of fairies. Guests will get the strange feeling that they are shrinking to fairy size as they encounter statues of Tinker Bell and her friends, and spot other evidence of the pixies’ presence. When guests arrive at Tinker Bell’s home, they will meet some of the pixies in person.

BLUE SKY CELLAR: For those who want to stay in-the-know about the expansion of Disney’s California Adventure park, a preview center opens Monday, Oct. 20 at the Golden Vine Winery in Disney’s California Adventure. The Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar – named for the Imagineers’ ‘blue sky’ creative process – displays never-before-seen models and art outlining the concepts and design for the park’s coming attractions, along with a video presentation. The showcase will be updated regularly so that fans can stay abreast of developments.

SLEEPING BEAUTY CASTLE WALKTHROUGH: Sleeping Beauty Castle, a beloved Disneyland landmark since the park’s debut in 1955, will open a “reawakened” version of its classic Castle walkthrough in time for the December holiday season. The new scenes inside the corridors tell the Sleeping Beauty story with modern special effects technology that recreates the look of the original Sleeping Beauty Castle walkthrough of the 1950s through the 1970s.

The new attractions and shows offer added value for Disney fans this fall as they enjoy all the traditional holiday attractions at Disneyland Resort.

Halloween highlights at Disneyland include the 16-foot-tall Mickey Mouse Jack-o’-Lantern on Main Street, U.S.A.; Woody’s Halloween Roundup at Big Thunder Ranch; and Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by Tim Burton’s “Nightmare Before Christmas,” which continues into the Christmas season.

At Disney’s California Adventure, Halloween is celebrated at Candy Corn Acres, featuring Goofy’s whimsical candy corn “crops.” Families also will enjoy a fun and safe trick-or-treating experience at the separate-admission nighttime Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat party, with treat locations throughout the park.

The Christmas holiday season gets underway on Friday, Nov. 21, when the traditional “A Christmas Fantasy” daily parade and “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks make their seasonal debuts. The towering Christmas tree appears on Main Street, U.S.A., and the décor and nighttime show surrounding Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle will be will be more spectacular than ever. The lights and effects that appear after dark extend into Disneyland Central Plaza, down Main Street, U.S.A., and to the Christmas tree at Town Square for a sparkling transformation that sets the scene for “Believe … In Holiday Magic” fireworks with their magical snowfall finale.

Additional holiday highlights include the return, Nov. 21, of the “it’s a small world” holiday attraction, celebrating holiday traditions around the world. Guests will visit Santa Claus throughout the season at Santa’s Reindeer Round-up in Big Thunder Ranch, and those looking for a unique experience may book time with a guide for Disney’s Holiday tours.

ANAHEIM, Calif. – The giant Mickey Mouse Jack-o’-Lantern and the Town Square Christmas Tree will be the symbols of celebration for their respective holidays at Disneyland this fall. But the traditional fan favorites are only the beginning as Disneyland Resort welcomes new shows and immersive experiences, along with an exciting preview of things to come at Disney’s California Adventure park.

It’s all part of the fun as Disney Parks poses the question to guests: “What Will You Celebrate?” Whether it’s the holidays, an anniversary, a family reunion or another special occasion, there’s something for everyone at Disneyland Resort.

The fall season kicks off with a very special event: a once-in-a-lifetime private party in Disneyland for teen sensation Miley Cyrus. “Miley’s Sweet 16 – Share The Celebration” will take place Sunday evening, Oct. 5, inside Disneyland. (The ticketed event is sold out). Miley will celebrate with family, friends and fans, perform a couple of songs, and recognize the outstanding contributions of Youth Service America, an organization that seeks to improve communities by increasing the number and diversity of young people serving as volunteers.

Beginning later in October, guests can enjoy an array of new attractions at Disneyland Resort, adding to the fun of the Halloween and Holiday seasons.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3: On Friday, Oct. 24, “High School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!” premieres at Disney’s California Adventure. The new street show celebrates the infectious energy of the upcoming theatrical motion picture “High School Musical 3: Senior Year.” Featuring a cast of 14 dynamic singers and dancers, the show takes place on a traveling “rock concert” stage with stacks of speakers and rows of lights. Interactive sequences featuring hot new songs from the movie will draw guests into the streets of Disney’s California Adventure for an exciting live concert experience.

PIXIE HOLLOW: The magical realm of Pixie Hollow appears in Disneyland on Tuesday, October 28. Entering along a pathway with an enchanted pool, between the entrances of Fantasyland and Tomorrowland, guests are gradually immersed into the community of fairies. Guests will get the strange feeling that they are shrinking to fairy size as they encounter statues of Tinker Bell and her friends, and spot other evidence of the pixies’ presence. When guests arrive at Tinker Bell’s home, they will meet some of the pixies in person.

BLUE SKY CELLAR: For those who want to stay in-the-know about the expansion of Disney’s California Adventure park, a preview center opens Monday, Oct. 20 at the Golden Vine Winery in Disney’s California Adventure. The Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar – named for the Imagineers’ ‘blue sky’ creative process – displays never-before-seen models and art outlining the concepts and design for the park’s coming attractions, along with a video presentation. The showcase will be updated regularly so that fans can stay abreast of developments.

SLEEPING BEAUTY CASTLE WALKTHROUGH: Sleeping Beauty Castle, a beloved Disneyland landmark since the park’s debut in 1955, will open a “reawakened” version of its classic Castle walkthrough in time for the December holiday season. The new scenes inside the corridors tell the Sleeping Beauty story with modern special effects technology that recreates the look of the original Sleeping Beauty Castle walkthrough of the 1950s through the 1970s.

The new attractions and shows offer added value for Disney fans this fall as they enjoy all the traditional holiday attractions at Disneyland Resort.

Halloween highlights at Disneyland include the 16-foot-tall Mickey Mouse Jack-o’-Lantern on Main Street, U.S.A.; Woody’s Halloween Roundup at Big Thunder Ranch; and Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by Tim Burton’s “Nightmare Before Christmas,” which continues into the Christmas season.

At Disney’s California Adventure, Halloween is celebrated at Candy Corn Acres, featuring Goofy’s whimsical candy corn “crops.” Families also will enjoy a fun and safe trick-or-treating experience at the separate-admission nighttime Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat party, with treat locations throughout the park.

The Christmas holiday season gets underway on Friday, Nov. 21, when the traditional “A Christmas Fantasy” daily parade and “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks make their seasonal debuts. The towering Christmas tree appears on Main Street, U.S.A., and the décor and nighttime show surrounding Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle will be will be more spectacular than ever. The lights and effects that appear after dark extend into Disneyland Central Plaza, down Main Street, U.S.A., and to the Christmas tree at Town Square for a sparkling transformation that sets the scene for “Believe … In Holiday Magic” fireworks with their magical snowfall finale.

Additional holiday highlights include the return, Nov. 21, of the “it’s a small world” holiday attraction, celebrating holiday traditions around the world. Guests will visit Santa Claus throughout the season at Santa’s Reindeer Round-up in Big Thunder Ranch, and those looking for a unique experience may book time with a guide for Disney’s Holiday tours.

As part of Disney Parks “What Will You Celebrate?” campaign, Disney fans of all ages will now be able to celebrate their birthdays with a personalized virtual party delivered right to their computers.

The all-new Disneyland Birthday Club, available online, adds to the fun of the magical offer announced on Sept. 18: Everyone who visits a Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free.

The Disneyland Birthday Club is a virtual club that offers Disney fans a complimentary Virtual Birthday Party via e-mail. After registering at www.Disneyland.com/BirthdayClub, they'll receive a “Happy Birthday” e-mail with birthday greetings from one of their favorite Disney characters, complete with “virtual" balloons and streamers, catchy birthday music and even a fantasy birthday cake with candles to "blow out," along with some additional birthday surprises.

The Disneyland Birthday Club Web site features birthday party planning tips, available upon registration.

The Disneyland Birthday Club is an at-home online feature, free with registration. Guests can also opt to join the Club when they register for the "Free On Your Birthday" ticket using the "What Will You Celebrate" link at www.Disneyland.com. Guests can begin using "Free On Your Birthday" tickets on Jan. 1, 2009.

Disneyland Birthday Club registration is now open. The first birthday e-mails will be sent in November. A Spanish-language version of the Birthday Club site, www.DisneylandEspanol.com/BirthdayClub, will go online in late September.

The offer for free admission on your birthday in 2009 is also good at Walt Disney World Resort, as Disney Parks embraces a new trend in family travel called “celebration vacations.” This newly identified national trend shows that American families are hitting the road to mark life’s special occasions – birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, reunions and more – with a “celebration vacation.”

In 2009, Disney Parks will champion this growing trend with new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences. Disney presented the trend to guests with a first-ever opportunity to visit free on their birthday.

“Birthdays are the one occasion that we all share every year,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, at an announcement event today in New York. “We thought a free birthday ticket would be the icing on the cake as we extend this new ‘celebration vacation’ trend to Disney Parks.”

To help guests plan their celebrations, the magic-makers at Disney are prepared to make it easier than ever for guests to plan celebrations large and small, customizing and personalizing each experience. New Web tools can help customize any celebration.

Anaheim, Calif. – Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort will fill Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks with not-so-scary spook-tacular entertainment beginning Friday, Sept. 26 and continuing through Sunday, November 2.

The season of tricks and treats will be celebrated at Disneyland Resort with the traditional giant “Mickey Mouse” jack-o’-lantern in Disneyland Town Square, Haunted Mansion Holiday in New Orleans Square and Candy Corn Acres in Disney’s California Adventure, along with festive foods, a lively mix of Disney characters in Halloween costumes and year two of Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tours.

During regular park hours at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort offers parents and children plenty of family-friendly fun in addition to the parks’ many popular adventures. Halloween Time activities include special shows, meet-and-greets with Disneyland characters in spirited costumes, along with opportunities to decorate Halloween cookies and listen to storytellers at “Woody’s Halloween Roundup” at Big Thunder Ranch.

Dedicated fans of Halloween and the Disney parks will want to sign up to experience all the “hot and cold running chills” of the season on Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour, an expanded version of the Halloween tour launched in 2007. From Sept. 26 to Oct. 31, the three-hour Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour will be offered twice a day, beginning at the “witching hours” of 5:15 and 5:30 p.m. The tour, conducted by a “unique” Disneyland Resort tour guide, includes the stories behind some of Disney parks’ spookiest attractions, told from the perspective of Disney villains. Stops at thrilling attractions including the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Haunted Mansion Holiday, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Snow White’s Scary Adventure are among the highlights of the tour.

Disney’s Happiest Haunt Tour is darkly humorous and spooky and is not recommended for young children or for those who might not enjoy the featured attractions (or might not meet the 40-inch height requirement for Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad). The tour fee is $59 and does not include park admission. Guests who take the tour receive an exclusive collectible remembrance and a Halloween treat. Each tour group has a maximum size of 20 guests. Tours may be booked up to 20 days in advance by calling (714) 781-4400.

Popular, family-friendly entertainment also returns for the Halloween season. At Disney’s California Adventure Sunshine Plaza is the Candy Corn Acres, where Mickey Mouse’s pal Goofy sets out to grow the West’s biggest and most unusual candy corn, including candy corn coconuts, candy corn carrots and candy corn pumpkins. The Plaza will be overgrown with the “fruits” of Goofy’s labor.

Also returning for the season is Haunted Mansion Holiday. Inspired by the innovative animated film, Tim Burton’s “Nightmare Before Christmas,” Haunted Mansion Holiday comes to life when Jack Skellington and his friends create holiday mayhem at the Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square.

A perfect way to celebrate Halloween in special Disney style is the one-of-a-kind Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party. This private costume party lets little ones laugh and play with some of their favorite Disney Characters—including Mickey himself—and ride select attractions as they trick-or-treat through Disney’s California Adventure park. The experience also includes interactive games, “spirited” music, and a nightly character cavalcade. It’s an unforgettable evening of Halloween fun for everyone. Dates for Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party are Oct. 3, 10, 16. 17, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31. Tickets are $29 per person when purchased at least one day in advance, $37 per person for tickets purchased day-of and for all Oct. 31 tickets. They may be purchased online at www.disneyland.com or by calling (714) 781-4400.

Throughout the Disneyland Resort during Halloween Time, families can enjoy unique Halloween-themed food items including Zero’s Ghostly Ghoulash, a favorite of Jack Skellington’s pet in “Haunted Mansion Holiday,” and merchandise including Disney costumes, collectible pins and coins and a special set of Halloween-themed Mickey Mouse ears resembling the Mickey jack-o’-lantern in Town Square.

For more information about Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort and new attractions, visit www.disneyland.com/halloween.

LET THE CELEBRATION BEGIN: In a New York City ballroom on Sept. 18, 2008, Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Jay Rasulo (pictured) announced that Disney Parks will welcome guests in 2009 with free theme park admission on their birthday. The free one-day, one-park ticket is good for birthday celebrants in 2009 at any theme park at Disneyland Resort in California or Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. In 2009 during "What Will You Celebrate?", Disney Parks will roll out new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences. Guests can get more details at www.disneyparks.com. (Diane Bondareff, photographer)

A BIG APPLE CELEBRATION: A Disney balloon vendor, Mickey Mouse and a group of children join Jay Rasulo (center), chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Sept. 18, 2008 during an impromptu visit to New York City’s Times Square. The visit followed Rasulo's announcement that Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will welcome guests in 2009 with free theme park admission on their birthday. Disney Parks have embraced a new travel trend called "celebration vacations" by adding new entertainment and add-on services that allow guests to turn personal milestones such as birthdays and anniversaries into magical Disney memories. (Diane Bondareff, photographer)

ANAHEIM, Calif. (August 22, 2008) – The Disneyland Resort is celebrating health, fitness and family fun with more than 18,000 participants who registered for the third annual Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, August 29-31. The highlight of the weekend is a 13.1 mile event affectionately dubbed “The Happiest Race on Earth.”

Participants in the Disneyland Half Marathon will travel a course unlike any half marathon in the world. It passes through the two Disneyland Resort theme parks – Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure – and it’s full of Disney inspiration with flaming cannons at the start, live entertainers all along the route, and Disney characters as cheerleaders. Many of the participants will be dressed like their favorite Disney characters, including Minnie Mouse and Tinker Bell, and some even stop mid-race to pose with Mickey Mouse and his pals for photos commemorating both the race and Disney Parks’ ongoing Year of a Million Dreams celebration.

In three and one-half hours or less, runners will pass Disneyland icons such as Sleeping Beauty Castle and the Matterhorn, and they will also pass Anaheim landmarks such as the Honda Center, Angel Stadium of Anaheim and the Anaheim Convention Center before finally crossing the finish line in the Downtown Disney District.

The Disneyland Half Marathon has become a popular road race for its flat loop course and mild climate, ideal for personal best times. Hosted by the Disneyland Resort and the City of Anaheim, it reached registration capacity in July. More than 13,500 runners are scheduled to participate in the Half Marathon on August 31, and 5,000 participants will be competing in the Family Fun Run 5K and Kids' Races on August 30, with participants from all 50 U.S. states and 16 countries.

"We are excited to welcome guests from all around the country to the third annual Disneyland Half Marathon," said Ed Grier, president of the Disneyland Resort. "By joining together with the City of Anaheim and other partners, we are able to provide participants with a unique race around the Anaheim Resort Area that will benefit the Anaheim Community Foundation." A monetary donation will be made to the Anaheim Community Foundation, the 2008 beneficiary of the Disneyland Half Marathon.

The Disneyland Half Marathon weekend is full of activities for the whole family, beginning on Friday, August 29, with the opening of the Disneyland Health and Fitness Expo. The two-day celebration of health and fitness features celebrity runner appearances and seminars on training, racing and nutrition, along with opportunities to experience the latest in running and fitness equipment. Expo hours are noon to 8 p.m. on Aug. 29, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Aug. 30.

This year’s Family Fun Run 5K celebrates the debut of Toy Story Mania!, an immersive attraction that opened in June at Disney’s California Adventure. Runners in the 5K will encounter their favorite characters from the Toy Story films, from Green Army Men marching off the start to Woody and Buzz at the finish line. Little runners (8 and under) will join in the fun with sprints, a 400-yard-dash and a Diaper Dash for crawlers.

Disneyland Half Marathon race finishers will earn a special commemorative medal depicting Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, one in a series of Disney race-specific medals.

A new award, the Disney Coast to Coast medal, will be presented to an estimated 1,000 runners who complete the 2008 Disneyland Half Marathon and who also completed either the Walt Disney World Marathon or Walt Disney World Half Marathon in January, 2008. Awarded for the first time this summer, the Coast to Coast medal showcases the iconic “Partners Statue,” of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse.

The Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend builds off the successful 15-year history of Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which is operated by Disney’s Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla. and is traditionally held in January. More than 195,000 runners, joggers and wheelchair athletes have successfully participated in the previous Walt Disney World Marathon Weekends. For more information, see www.disneyworldsports.com.

The Disneyland Half Marathon is part of the Disney’s Endurance Series, which gives recreational athletes of all ages and abilities the chance to walk, jog, run, bike and swim their way “around the world.” From running marathons to road races and triathlons, participating athletes from around the (Disney) world compete to stay in shape, to achieve personal-best times and often to raise donations for charitable causes.

The next Disneyland Half Marathon will take place on Sept. 6, 2009.

ANAHEIM, Calif.—August 19, 2008— When it comes to magical vacation experiences at the Disneyland Hotel, it’s character that counts. That’s why the famous resort hotel, located next to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks, is now featuring the opportunity to book Character Quarters – connecting rooms for children that are specially themed with Mickey Mouse or Disney princess décor.

Character Quarters are standard, smaller guest rooms that have a connecting door adjacent to a standard guest room. By reserving Character Quarters and a standard guest room, guests can guarantee connecting rooms, which are ideal for families traveling with younger children. (Character Quarters cannot be booked without a connecting standard guest room.)

Each Character Quarters room features a themed television set and two twin beds. The Mickey Mouse-themed quarters have flat screen televisions, floor-to-ceiling Mickey décor, furnishings, fixtures and amenities that match the rich, blue carpeting with lively “hidden Mickey” swirls and bright golden stars.

The Disney princess-themed rooms offer furnishings fit for royalty. The rooms are beautifully adorned with carpeting, wall coverings, Cinderella comforters and other amenities fit for a princess.

“The all-new Character Quarters allow our guests to immerse themselves in character magic typically only found in our theme parks,” said Tony Bruno, vice president of Disneyland Resort Hotels.

The Disneyland Hotel is the only hotel where guests can stay the night completely surrounded in the world of Mickey Mouse and Disney princesses, extending the magic of their experience at the Disneyland Resort.

For more information, please visit www.disneyland.com or call (714) 956-MICKEY.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (August 21, 2008) – When the world’s most popular teenager turns “Sweet 16,” it’s cause to celebrate. And when that teen is Miley Cyrus – star of Disney’s “Hannah Montana” – there’s no better place to celebrate than at a Disney Park.

To honor the occasion and Miley’s philanthropic passion, Disneyland Resort in California has created “Miley’s Sweet 16 – Share The Celebration,” an unforgettable event for Miley and her fans that also will serve to recognize Youth Service America and help drive awareness of the need for youth volunteerism.

The Hollywood-style bash is planned for Sunday, Oct. 5, from 6 to 11 p.m., with ticket sales limited to 5,000 fans.

Tickets, priced at $250, go on sale at 9 a.m. PDT, Saturday, Aug. 30, at www.disneyparks.com/miley.

For Miley, the birthday bash is a once-in-a-lifetime event and she plans to make new Disney theme park memories during the evening. “I only turn 16 once, so it’s going to be an awesome party with my favorite rides, hanging out with friends, fireworks and more,” she said. “I’ll even get to sing a couple songs.”

The evening will celebrate Miley’s career as a Hollywood Records solo musical artist and as the “secret pop star” she portrays on the wildly popular Disney Channel series, “Hannah Montana.”

Miley’s Sweet 16 at Disneyland will feature a medley of party elements, large and small, that will allow guests to join in the celebration of Miley’s magical milestone. Special Party Zones will highlight the music and fun of Miley and Hannah Montana with themed activities and entertainment. Some of Miley’s favorite attractions will be open in each Party Zone, and the party will end with a bang as fireworks fill the Disneyland sky.

Sharing the Celebration with Youth Service America

In addition to all the birthday fun, Miley’s Sweet 16 will shine a spotlight on Youth Service America, an organization that seeks to improve communities by increasing the number and diversity of young people, ages 5 to 25, serving as volunteers. (For more information, visit www.YSA.org.)

In keeping with Miley’s passion for youth volunteerism, Disney Parks will make a significant contribution to Youth Service America.

With the organization’s involvement in “Miley’s Sweet 16 – Share The Celebration,” Miley said she hopes that other young Americans will be encouraged to volunteer in their own hometowns.

“The best part of the party is we’re going to recognize some really cool kids from Youth Service America who are giving back to their community,” she said. “That’s so awesome because I think it’s really important for kids like us to volunteer.”

For More Party Information

For ongoing information about “Miley’s Sweet 16 - Share The Celebration” party at Disneyland Park in California, as well as details on how to obtain tickets, fans may go to www.disneyparks.com/miley for details.