DISNEY ON ICE: Let's Celebrate! A Review!

A few nights ago, our blogs had the opportunity to attend Disney On Ice:  Let's Celebrate at Philips Arena here in Atlanta.  I was lucky enough to have a Guest with me that (hopefully) will be joining our family of websites, as a future writer and contributor.

Please help me in welcoming, Lindsey, to our family of sites, as she presents her very first review for us!  Take it away Lindsey!

Disney On Ice: Let's Celebrate lives up to its title - in itself, the show is a reason to celebrate!  The show featured different segments on reasons to celebrate, including a Very Merry Unbirthday with Alice and the Mad Hatter; a Halloween Town celebration with Jack Skellington and the Disney Villains; Valentine's Day with the Princesses and their Princes; summer vacation in Hawaii with Nani, David, Lilo, and Stitch, which lead to Japan with Minnie, and China with Mickey, Mulan, and Li Shang; Mardi Gras with Tiana and Naveen; and finally, Christmas with Buzz, Woody, Jessie, and friends.  If you're feeling homesick for the happiest place on earth, I highly recommend Let's Celebrate!  Fun for the entire family, it is the perfect touch of the Disney Parks close to home.  If you're seated close to the ice, the characters may interact with you!  Even if you are seated far away from the arena, the characters on ice still make attempts to bring the audience into the show, such as saying the magic words with Fairy Godmother (Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo!) or saying "Aloha!" along with Lilo and friends to kick off the Luau in Hawaii.

Some underappreciated characters made an appearance, including Pinocchio, Geppetto, and the Blue Fairy; Mowgli and Baloo; Jack Skellington; Alice and Mad Hatter; Cruella De Ville; and many others.   It was nostalgic to see the characters that aren't often included.  The Halloween Town party was haunting in the most theatrical and fun-filled way.  The Jack Skellington figure skater was phenomenal - the movements were whimsical, fun, and daring, much like Jack himself.  The Valentine's Day segment with the Princesses was gorgeous.  All of the Princesses were included, with the exception of Pocahontas, Aurora, Rapunzel, and Merida.  The princesses had an individual dance to a contemporary remix of their signature song with their prince.  The final dance with everyone was to Enchanted's "That's How You Know," which had everyone wanting to clap and sing along.  After a short intermission, the show returned with summer vacation in Hawaii.  The theatrics in this were amazing.  Be surprised for some daring stunts and pyrotechnics from David.  The best part of summer vacation was the very end - Louisiana with Tiana and Naveen had everyone clapping along and having a great time.  The bluesy melody of The Princess and the Frog soundtrack along with the fast paced skating and dancing was well received by all.  The final Christmas segment had kids of all ages in the audience enthusiastic - "The toys are back in town!" Toy Story is a timeless classic, and I loved seeing them out on the ice!  I was most impressed by the costumes for Hamm and Rex.  Their costumes were very cumbersome, but they still engaged with the audience (Hamm let the kids pet him!) 

Overall, Let's Celebrate is one of the most interesting Disney On Ice productions.  What appeals to the audience is that it's suitable for kids of all ages.  Parents and grandparents will enjoy it just as much as the little ones will.  The timing of the production is also convenient.  It's the perfect event to bring in the holiday season.  Regardless of holidays and celebration, it's the perfect event to get your fix of Disney (I know that I suffer from Disney withdrawls!) If it's coming to a city near you, don't miss out on the opportunity to see this production! Bring some good company, and Let's Celebrate!

 

*Disney On Ice:  Let's Celebrate will play Atlanta's Philips Arena through Sunday, October 13th.  There are still seats available, and all our readers can get a 20% discount by using the code GASSOUTH when checking out!  Visit the Ticketmaster website to purchase yours today.

Give Kids The World - BigFatPanda.com Team (In Memory of Matthew DeSantis)

A fellow blogger and Disney friend of mine, John Saccheri, has joined the 2013 Give Kids the World Attrations Blogger Bowl.  His goal is to reach $5,000.

Please read his story below.  It's a touching tale of John and his cousin Matthew.  If you'd like to help John (a.k.a. BigFatPanda.com) reach his goal, you can donate at FirstGiving.com.

Not familiar with Give Kids the World?  Here is their mission statement:

"Give Kids The World is a non-profit organization that exists only to fulfill the wishes of all children with life-threatening illnesses and their families from around the world to experience a memorable, joyful, cost-free visit to the Central Florida attractions, and to enjoy the magic of Give Kids The World Village for as long as there is a need.

Over 122,000 children have had their dream come true at Give Kids The World. No child in need has ever been turned away – and no child ever will. Give Kids The World is a place where families find joy, laughter, serenity, and a lifetime of memories. Through the tireless support of our volunteers, employees and generous partners, we dedicate each and every day to these special families."

You can also visit the Give Kids the World website to learn more about them, their events, and to hear wonderful and personal stories about the children and their families.

Now, on to John's story.  I hope after reading this story, you too will be encouraged to help John reach his personal goal of $5,000 for Give Kids the World!  Enjoy!

"Matthew was only 12 years old when he passed away of Leukemia. He was my cousin.

I was 19 at the time. Seven years doesn't sound like a lot of years, but at that age, it was enormous.

He looked up to me soooo much I can't write this without tears streaming down my face. Ya see, as you might know, I am a Disney maniac fan and Matthew picked this up from me, always wanting to know about the rides and shows.  He thought the Electrical Parade Music was great.

His family had little means, and he had never been to Disney World or even on a vacation at all for that matter.  I thought I would be able to take him one day.
I just didn't know under what gloomy circumstances.

Procedure after procedure, things were looking bad.  He underwent a Bone Marrow transplant in the state of Washington.  I remember him calling me while he was on his way back home to New York, "Uncle John, they say I am going to die!"  (Yes, he called me Uncle even though I was his cousin.)

I was not prepared or briefed on how to respond to this 12-year old that flat out told me, in all calmness, that he was going to pass soon.  I simply said something to the effect of, "No you're not" and continued to plan his return visit home.

The Make A Wish Foundation and Give Kids The World contacted the family, and I was thrilled to find out that Matthews wish was to see Walt Disney World.  But get this - I was part of his wish.  It was not just to visit Disney World but I was listed as needing to come along.  I saw the paper that read "I want to visit DisneyWorld with my family but we must have Uncle John included."  (It took me 10 minutes to type that line - this is hard - even 20 years later - WOW!!!)

Without detailing everything, I remember the GKTW Village was amazing and accommodating to the family.  Matthew was weak and in a wheelchair at this time.  He had a mediport installed close to his heart for easy access to giving him medicines.  I remember his mother Camille, whom I love dearly, happy that the shower had some mediport cleaner and all.   The Village just screamed "Relax, let the sickness be put on hold for this week."

The highlight for me was the Haunted Mansion.  He wanted to go in the worst way even though I felt the subject matter might be macabre at this time.  He separated it and wasn't thinking bad in the midst of Disney.   BUT, he wanted to see the whole thing.  He didn't want to skip the "stretching room" as all wheelchair guests did at that time.  I lifted him out of the wheelchair, and we laughed like crazy.  He was in my arms like a big baby being held the whole time.  It didn't matter how much my arms hurt - he was doing it the regular way and that's all that mattered.

It was an amazing time - and the memories would never have been possible without the help of the GKTW Give Kids The World organization, and they never made you feel anything but welcome.

Reality quickly set in upon returning home - Approximately 3 days after our Walt Disney World extravaganza, Matthew simply let go and passed away.  I still don't quite understand what happened or why and will always question how the God I believe in allows such things, but I realize it's not for me to know everything and I go on.

With that, I ask you to PLEASE donate SOMETHING (any amount) in Matthews memory to give another child an AMAZING experience with his or her family.  The details of the event are also in the link.  THANK YOU SO MUCH! BIG HUGS!

**********

GKTW is a 70-acre resort that fulfills fantasy vacations for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.  Since its founding in 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed over 122,000 families from all 50 states and over 70 countries.  Each year over 7,000 children from all 50 states and over 70 countries experience the Village.  Give Kids The World has made a promise to never turn a child away.

I am participating in the Attractions Blogger Bowl, benefitting Give Kids The World Village.  Your donation will help provide special families with a cost-free magical vacation to Give Kids The World, where the families can create memories at Central Florida's beloved attractions.   With your support, we can make a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Donating through this site is simple, fast, and totally secure.  Your contribution to my personal fundraiser for Give Kids The World will make a difference in the lives of these special children.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to share this opportunity with anyone who you think might want to donate to the Village as well!"

Sad Coffee News from Disney Parks Today...Disney to Close Main Street Bakery and Replace with Starbucks

We all know how much I love Disney.  We all know how much I love coffee.

But if I have to choose one or the other, I am always going to choose Disney.  That's why today's news from Disney Parks has me confused, dumbfounded, and just plain SAD.

Instead of me trying to explain the debaucle of this Disney decision, let me allow the The Disboards Blog to speak for all of us here at The Coffee Blog....

"That’s right, folks, you read the headline correctly. Tonight Disney Parks announced that the first ever Starbucks inside Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom will replace the iconic Main Street Bakery. As an avid lover of both Disney and Starbucks, I’m both conflicted and shocked at this news. It’s time that I weigh in.

Image: The Main Street Bakery in Walt Disney World will shut its doors this January and be remodeled into a Starbucks.

The Main Street Bakery is a charming eatery that fills Main Street USA with the scents of brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. With wrought iron chairs, brass light fixtures, dark oak cabinets, and walls covered in mirrors and tile, the bakery fits right in with Main Street’s turn-of-the-century atmosphere. Guests line up immediately after park opening to splurge on an early morning treat such as a warm, gooey cinnamon roll or freshly baked croissant. In the afternoons and evenings, those looking to satisfy their sweet tooths frequently stop by for a homemade ice cream cookie sandwich, cupcake, danish, or piece of cake. Sandwiches are also available and make for a relaxing break from the business of the Magic Kingdom.

Image: The charm of Main Street Bakery brings us back to days of the past.

However, Disney Parks has decided to shut the doors of our beloved bakery this January so that it may be transformed into the first Starbucks location inside a Walt Disney World theme park. When the company first announced the addition of Starbucks last year, I was thrilled. We all have our own opinions about the coffee served at Disney Parks. If you have listened to one of many episodes of the DIS Unplugged podcast, you’ll know that it’s been coined a few not-so-nice, but deserving nicknames. By adding the option of the Seattle-based coffee chain, guests can avoid choking back watered down coffee grinds and select a beverage from the largest java company in the world.

With this being said, I never would have imagined that such a permanent part of Main Street like the bakery would be removed to provide space for an eatery that can be found in nearly every town in the U.S. and several areas around the world. Why would Disney take away the nostaligic surroundings of a bakery from the past? Why would the company do this to replace it with such a commercial chain? I’m completely baffled and can imagine that you are too.

Image: Starbucks is a Seattle-based coffee chain known throughout the world for its caffeine-filled concoctions like this iced green tea latte.

Many of the changes Disney fans have seen in the parks over the past few years have been deemed questionable. Still, most agree that such “improvements” were related to Disney’s bottom line. Could that be the case with Starbucks? Some might believe so. However, I find it very difficult to believe that the Main Street Bakery did not hold its weight in coin. Every time I walk by the line is long and guests are snatching every goodie imaginable. So if the eatery was successful, why would Disney jeopardize it by falling for the commercialized logic of today?

This summer, Disney California Adventure opened the first Starbucks location inside a Disney theme park. I had the chance to frequent it on several occasions. I thought that Disney Imagineers did a fantastic job blending the eatery in with the theming of the newly remodeled Buena Vista Street. Everything from the signage to the chairs to the decorations fit the atmosphere. As a result, one might guess that this could very well be done on Main Street. Yet, I’m finding myself to be less confident. How could one combine the charm of old time USA with such a modern coffee shop – one that prides itself in frappes, lattes, and liquid gold? I just don’t think it can be done.

Image: The first Starbucks inside a Disney park at Disney California Adventure.

In terms of food options, Disney has said that baked goods will be offered at the new Starbucks location. The types of offerings have not been expanded upon much though; Disney stated today that:

The Starbucks locations at Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot will both offer the full complement of Starbucks® signature beverages, artisan breakfast sandwiches and a wide selection of baked goods, including muffins, scones and specialty treats.

All of the above can be found at Starbucks shops around the country including the artisan breakfast sandwiches and scones. This doesn’t give me much hope for finding the treats we have come to love at Main Street Bakery once the remodel is complete.
In addition, the majority of sweets in Disney California Adventure’s location were also the normal treats found in any Starbucks. A few Mickey Mouse cookies (which a cast member told me were not made in the bakeries on-site, by the way) were available, but that’s it. Again, does this mean we will no longer see what the bakery currently offers? What will happen to the cinnamon rolls? The freshly baked cheesecake? The enormous ice cream sandwiches? Should we have predicted this when the infamous French toast loaf was recently taken off of the bakery’s menu?

Image: Food Offerings at Starbucks, Disney California Adventure

All in all, Starbucks is a welcome addition to Disney Parks. However, I don’t feel that something as iconic as the Main Street Bakery should be removed for this to happen. Walt Disney World has several acres to build upon; taking out the bakery will definitely impact the overall feel of Main Street. If the intent for the area is to mimic Walt Disney’s beloved Marceline hometown, smacking a modern-day establishment in it might put a dent into the nostalgia bubble if you ask me. I guess time will only tell how this will pan out, but for now, I’m going to make sure to stock up on bakery treats during my next trip."

Image Credits: N. Mancini & wdwinfo.com

Disney Travel 101: Best Places to Get Coffee at Walt Disney World

*Courtesy Examiner.com

This article from the Examiner's website is a few years old, but it's still a good read on coffee at Disney.  Enjoy!

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"Coffee lovers who visit Walt Disney World (WDW) need to plan if they want to enjoy a good cup of java. While many places in WDW serve coffee, most of it isn’t good coffee.

This lack is most evident in the theme parks, especially Magic Kingdom, where many coffee carts, quick-service places, and even table-service restaurants serve Nestle® Nescafe prepared from coffee concentrate. While some people enjoy Nescafe – for those who do, order it in Norway’s Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe in Epcot – many guests prefer other options.

So, where’s the best place to get coffee at Walt Disney World? This article identifies several places where guest can get good coffee at Disney World, but one location in particular stands out.

Best WDW coffee – Kona Café and adjacent Kona Coffee Bar

Located in the Polynesian Resort near the Magic Kingdom, the Kona Café and its quick-service kiosk serves 100% Kona coffee and Kona coffee blends. Coffee services include press pots for the dining table, and both venues offer coffee, espress, and espresso drinks.

Officially, the Kona Coffee bar (which becomes Kona Island Sushi Bar for dinner) is open during the morning. According to Disney Moms panelist Kathy F., however, guests may order Kona Café press-pot coffee through the coffee bar during the café’s dining hours.

In addition to the quality of the drinks, other factors make Kona Café and Kona Coffee Bar a gem for coffee-seeking guests. Steps away from the monorail, Kona is a relatively convenient stop for those traveling to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Grand Floridian, and Disney's Contemporary Resort. The Kona Café also offers quality food and a good value, which makes it a solid choice for a mealtime park break.

Tips for Getting a Coffee Fix at Walt Disney World

Guests generally can’t plan their Disney vacation around one coffee place but luckily there are options.

• Choose coffee carts run by Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Company for a quick caffeine fix. They are found in the theme parks – although none in the Magic Kingdom – and Downtown Disney, as well as some WDW resorts.
  
  
• Downtown Disney provides several coffee options, including Ghirardelli’s and The Earl of Sandwich. These shops are particularly good options for arrival, departure, and rest days spent away from the theme parks.
  
  
• Signature restaurants, with press pot coffees, are worth considering for breakfast or lunch – not simply for the coffee, but because meal prices are less expensive at these times.
  
  
• Starbucks is served at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, Downtown Disney area’s Regal Sun and Hilton Walt Disney World, and the military resort Shades of Green.

Of course, what’s the best Walt Disney World coffee for some guests may not be the same as for others. What’s your favorite place to get coffee at Walt Disney World, and why? Other suggestions for fellow java junkies? Disney Travel 101 would love your tips!"

**FREE** Coffee at Disneyland?

*Photo courtesy OC Register

This article is pretty old by now, but the OC Register claims you can get **FREE** coffee at Disneyland?

Wanna know how?  Here's what they say:

"Did you know that you can get free refills on coffee at Disneyland?

Since 1955, Main Street‘s Market House has given free refills on coffee.  Purchase a cup of coffee (regular, decaf, vanilla, or hazelnut) for $2.59 and save your receipt.

There’s no need to keep the cup. Just bring back the receipt and enjoy free refills all day.

At other food venues, visitors can get free refills only as long as they are continuing to dine at the location, said David Gill, a Disneyland Resort spokesman. They can’t come back later for free refills. That’s a unique deal at Market House only.

Market House sells mostly standard coffee."

Hmmm...didn't know this.  But glad to hear it!  Wish there was a place at Disney World like this...

Late Night Coffee at Disney

*Photo courtesy of ME!

Waiting for a friend one late night at Disney's Epcot theme park, I spotted this little counter service building right outside the gates.

What a great concept.  Coffee, espresso, and pastries before (or after) entering Epcot.  I love when my worlds collide.

Southern Living's Picks - Best Tea & Coffee at Walt Disney World

*Courtesy Southern Living

Southern Living gives us their best picks for coffee and tea at Walt Disney World:

"Coffee and tea are hot these days. Wherever you travel, it seems another shop spouts the beverages. So we're not surprised that Walt Disney World stirs their own versions into the pot. Here are some of their best.

Coffee Shops at Walt Disney World

Drop in at Epcot's Tangierine Café for a dark Moorish espresso at the Morocco pavilion. Its aroma warms you like a tempered breeze blowing in off the Sahara.

Rumor has it that Mickey Mouse even takes coffee breaks in the winter. Although he probably goes home to Minnie for his, you should try the Sunshine Tree Terrace in the Magic Kingdom. This Adventureland stop serves invigorating espressos as well as frothy cappuccinos and lattes.

For a frozen slurp of mocha, head over to Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at the Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. Request a drizzle of chocolate in a wonderful coffee milk shake.

True coffee aficionados will find several heavenly java treats. At Kona Cafe, the breakfast spot at the Polynesian Resort, order a press pot of smooth Hawaiian coffee for a memorable brew.

Both Boma and Jiko, the Animal Kingdom Lodge's restaurants, serve a nutty Kenyan roast.

Fans of Cuban coffee should go have a cup of joe at Bongos Cuban Café in Downtown.

The fanciest coffee service, however, is offered in the exclusive Victoria and Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. The Cona brewing method removes any bitter taste, leaving purest bean flavors.

Tea at Walt Disney World

Enjoy a British tea at the Garden View Lounge in Disney's Grand Floridian. In addition to the soothing cups, choose dainty sandwiches and sweet scones for a proper afternoon snack.

Epcot rounds out the tea selection with mint tea served piping hot at Restaurant Marrakesh in Morocco and green Chinese teas at Nine Dragons at China pavilion.

This article was updated in May 2011. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.

Annette Thompson"

Disney Does Alice in Wonderland

*Courtesy Disney Parks Blog

Disney is switching up how they do coffee mugs.

What do you think of these new and clever designs?

Disney Park Coffee Souvenirs

*Courtesy Disney Parks Blog

Coffee mugs, particularly the morning-themed mugs shown above, are some of the most popular selling items at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts.

Click on the link above to see more fun and whimsical Disney coffee cup designs.

Top Coffee Spots Around Walt Disney World

The Best Places to Find Coffee at Disney.l

Wondering where you can find the top coffee spots while at Walt Disney World?

Laura Spencer, one of Disney's Social Media Managers, tells us where on the Disney Parks Blog.  Click on the link above to find out where the best places are located.