Disneyland Resort Offers Southern California Residents Special Prices on Tickets for a Limited Time, Beginning Jan. 6

ANAHEIM, Calif. – The Disneyland Resort is kicking off the new year with a special ticket offer for Southern California residents, just in time to enjoy the thrilling Star Wars Season of the Force at Disneyland Park, all the nighttime excitement of the 60th anniversary Diamond Celebration and the opening of Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters at Disney California Adventure Park.

The Southern California Resident ticket offer* provides flexible options for two or three days of magic and adventure at special prices. Available for a limited time, the offer has four purchase options:

  • 2-day ticket with choice of one park per day for $149
  • 2-day Park Hopper ticket for $189
  • 3-day ticket with choice of one park per day for $179
  • 3-day Park Hopper ticket for $219.

Guests who choose to visit Disneyland will enjoy all the thrills of Star Wars Season of the Force, an exciting lineup of experiences that celebrate the Star Wars film saga. The lineup includes the Star Wars-themed transformation of Space Mountain into Hyperspace Mountain; new characters and a new adventure among the destinations at Star Tours – The Adventures Continue attraction, and an exciting short film, “Star Wars: Path of the Jedi,” which relives highlights of the Star Wars films. In addition, Star Wars Launch Bay invites guests to encounter that favorite Star Wars pilot Chewbacca, visit a Star Wars-themed cantina, discover authentic replicas of film props, and more.  And younglings will learn about conquering their fears in a new show, Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple.

At Super Hero HQ, also in Tomorrowland, guests will learn more about some of their favorite Super Heroes and even encounter Spider-Man and Thor, in person.

After dark in Disneyland, the 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration comes to life with the dazzling “Paint the Night,” an all-new electrical parade, and the spectacular “Disneyland Forever” fireworks, an immersive street-to-sky experience like nothing seen before at the Disneyland Resort. The night skies light up in Disney California Adventure with the exciting “World of Color – Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney,” a spectacular that combines water, light, color, lasers, animation, projections and nearly 1,200 dancing fountains.

In Cars Land at Disney California Adventure, Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters will open in early 2016. On this fun, family attraction, guests will join the exciting festivities created by Luigi, a beloved character from the Disney•Pixar blockbuster “Cars” films. Luigi has invited all his cugini (cousins) from Carsoli, Italy, to visit Cars Land and demonstrate the traditional dances of their village. Park guests will hop aboard miniature Italian roadsters – in the style of micro cars — to enjoy the dance and the upbeat singing of Luigi and his cousins. The dance is precision-choreographed across what appears to be a trackless “dance floor.” Each car has its own routine, so guests will be able to enjoy different ride experiences depending on which car they board.

Beginning Jan. 6, 2016, Southern California residents will be able to experience all these attractions and entertainment, along with other beloved experiences at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks, with the special ticket offer.

The 2-day and 3-day Southern California Resident tickets are an ideal way to make unforgettable memories, and are available for a limited time.  Southern California residents must purchase tickets from Jan. 6 through May 19, 2016. Tickets expire after May 26, 2016, and blockout dates apply.  They can be purchased at http://Disneyland.com/flex, The Disney Stores, Vons and other retail locations, as well as any Disneyland Resort ticket booth.  Guests who purchase tickets online may print their tickets at home. When purchased in advance, 3-day tickets include one Magic Morning** early entry to Disneyland Park, which provides an extra hour of play on select days before the park opens to the general public. This benefit is not available to tickets purchased at Disneyland Resort ticket booths.

For restrictions, visit http://Disneyland.com/flex. For park hours and entertainment schedules, guests may review the resort’s daily calendar at Disneyland.com.

Hotel Offers: Special hotel offers are available for guests who want to turn their Disneyland Resort visit into a getaway, including a stay in the middle of the Diamond Celebration at any of the three Disneyland Resort hotels. Guests may save up to 20 percent on premium rooms for select nights at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa or the Disneyland Hotel, and up to 10 percent at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel for travel between January 3 and March 31, 2016, if booked by March 10.***  Disneyland Resort hotel guests also may enjoy Extra Magic Hour** morning admission to a Disneyland Resort theme park on applicable days (valid Theme Park ticket and active hotel room key card required for each guest).

About the Disneyland Resort The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and the reimagined Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, recently renovated, 973-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel with its “day-at-the-beach” fun. For information on attractions and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.

Star Tours ©Disney/Lucasfilm Ltd.

* So Cal Resident Ticket Offer:
Valid only 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 purchase and admission. 1-Park Per Day tickets are valid for admission to either Disneyland® or Disney California Adventure® park each day of validity, but not to both parks on the same day.  Park Hopper® tickets are valid for admission each day of validity to both Disneyland® and Disney California Adventure® park on the same day. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. Tickets expire May 26, 2016.  Blockout days of 3/20/16-4/2/16 apply.  May purchase up to 5 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 ticket discounts or promotions. Tickets not valid before 1/6/16.  Subject to capacity, restrictions and change without notice.
**Magic Morning and Extra Magic Hour
Magic Morning admission allows admission to selected attractions at Disneyland® Park before the park opens to the general public on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday. Each Guest must have valid, eligible theme park admission.  Extra Magic Hour currently allows registered Disneyland® Resort hotel guests admission into select attractions at Disneyland® Park on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and Disney California Adventure® Park on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday before the applicable park opens to the general public.  Each registered hotel guest (ages 3 and older) must have a valid theme park ticket and active hotel room key card.  To enhance the Magic Morning and Extra Magic Hour experiences, it is strongly recommended that Guests arrive at least one hour and 15 minutes prior to regular park opening.  Applicable theme park, days and times of operation and all other elements of the admissions including, but not limited to, operation of attractions, entertainment, stores and restaurants and appearances of characters may vary and are subject to change without notice.  Subject to capacity, other restrictions and cancellation.
***Resort Hotel Offer
Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room and the same hotel for most Sunday through Thursday nights. Valid for travel January 3, 2016 to March 31, 2016. Book through March 10, 2016, with travel completed by April 1, 2016. Savings on premium rooms are available on Premium, Deluxe and Woods/Garden/Courtyard rooms; select Concierge rooms; and Paradise, Artisan and Regal suites. Not valid on previously booked rooms. Advance reservations required. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Excludes applicable fees and taxes. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required to enjoy the Parks.

Christmas In Our Time

By Margie Anne Clark

“God offers to every mind its choice between truth and repose.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

As I look forward to the advent of another Christmas season spent with my ever growing  family, I am reminded that life with its challenges is always renewing itself. Even in the face of triumphs and tragedies, I know this to be true.  Okay, so I’m an optimist.  Always have been. But even I know that time marches on. We grow up, our kids grow up, neighbors come and go, close friends move away …

But there are some things I hope will remain constant in life, like love of family, dear friends, cherished memories, and of course, Christmas. In these modern times, it seems that the season of Christmas has managed to transcend religious beliefs to include a universal celebration of the human spirit and good will.

I was raised with basic Christian tenets, but I have always believed in the importance and commonality of all religions which espouse the concept of good will towards all people. A great world leader, Pope John Paul II addressed this issue in his 1994 book, “Crossing the Threshold of Hope.” In it, Pope John Paul II cites in his excerpts a church document entitled, “Nostra Aetate,” (In Our Time).

“From the beginning, Christian Revelation has viewed the spiritual history of man as including, in some way all religions, thereby demonstrating the unity of all human kind with regard to the eternal and ultimate destiny of man … There is only one community and it consists of all peoples. They have only one origin, since God inhabited the earth with the whole human race …” (Nostra Aetate I-2).

Pope John Paul II wrote: “Thus instead of marveling at the fact that Providence allows such a great variety of religions, we should be amazed at the number common elements found within them.”

In this day and age of post-9/11, the War in Iraq and conflicts around the world , it’s easy for us to forget the common bonds of humanity that bind us.  Pope John Paul II cites another expert from the Nostra Aetate:

“Even if over the course of centuries Christians and Muslims have had more than a few dissensions and quarrels, this sacred Council now urges all to forget the past and to work toward mutual understanding as well as toward the preservation and promotion of social justice, moral welfare, peace and freedom for the benefit of all mankind (Nostra Aetate 3).”

But the world is a complicated place.

When you look at difficulties and suffering that sometimes arise within families, communities and between friends, one wonders how in the world the many diverse people of the world can ever get along in peace and harmony.

And one wonders if there are those who are not deserving of any respect.

But as it says in Galatians, all of us are “children of promise.”

Christ himself addressed this issue when he said to the apostles: “Take courage, I have conquered the world (John 16:33). But he also cautioned:

“When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke, 18:8).

Life is a paradox. In Christian faith, we are taught that Christ was born to save mankind from sin. Yet, in sin comes the opportunity for grace. The birth of Christ in a lowly manger was honored in grace and profound respect by wise men and kings who brought gifts to herald in His sojourn on Earth.

Because of this, gift-giving seems to be a big part of the Christmas celebration. It’s a way to take time out and give tokens of thanks to those who have touched our lives. In this sense, gift giving takes on a universal spirit. But in the hustle and bustle of finding just the perfect gift, or being stressed out, it’s important to take time out to simply be a friend.

A kind word, an act of thoughtfulness and courtesy can mean just as much or even more than an expensive gift. Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently pointed this out in his essays on spiritual laws:

“Let us lie low in the Lord’s power and learn that truth alone makes rich and great. For it is only the finite that has wrought and suffered: the infinite lies stretched in smiling repose.”

Emerson goes on to write: “If you visit your friend, why need you apologize for not having visited him, and waste his time and deface your own act? Visit him now. Let him feel the highest love has come to see him … be a gift of benediction. Shine with real light and not with the borrowed reflection of gifts …”

While gifts are an important part of the holiday season, friendship, love and respect for our fellow human beings are by far the greatest gifts of all.

Margie Anne Clark is a writer based in Los Angeles.  All rights reserved.

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD Now at the Reagan Library

Back by popular demand the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is pleased to announce that  Christmas Around the World is back after a six-year hiatus.  Itincludes 26 exquisitely decorated trees representing the 26 countries that President Reagan visited while in office, as well as a White House Tree. Decorations encompass the bright and festive colors of the Caribbean, the crystals of the Nordic countries and the traditional decorations of England and Europe. Of particular note is the Vatican tree decorated entirely with white ornaments featuring a life-size white peacock that adorns the tree’s branches. The featured tree is an elegant reproduction of President and Mrs. Reagan’s White House tree complete with “Reagan Red” decorations and dozens of hand-blown glass ornaments.

The Reagan Library has once again partnered with Toys for Tots! Please bring an unwrapped toy, valued at $10 or more, and receive $2 off general or senior admission that day.  Offer good only November 14, 2015 through December 15, 2015.

PURCHASING TICKETS

Your admission fee includes all exhibits and galleries at the Museum, including the main Reagan Museum, the Air Force One Pavilion. To purchase your tickets online, you must select the date and time you would like to visit.

While you are purchasing your tickets, you will also be given the opportunity to:

Pre-purchase a Reagan Museum Souvenir Book exhibit catalog, learn more.

Pre-purchase a Presidential Library Passport – the perfect keepsake of your visit to the Reagan Library.

To guarantee the day and time of your visit, we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance online. Because they are timed-tickets, gallery entry times will be subject to availability.

Tickets are valid for single entry. No early entry permitted and tickets are valid only for the date stated..

For More information, please visit: http://www.reaganfoundation.org/details_f.aspx?p=LM2024ETEX&h1=0&h2=0&lm=libraryandmuseum&args_a=cms&args_b=35&argsb=N&tx=3267&sw=3267

The Legendary Dick Van Dyke will be 90 years young on December 13th! Celebrate in the parks dressed as your favorite Dick Van Dyke character or a chimney sweep.

“A sweep is as lucky as lucky can be…” The Legendary Dick Van Dyke will be 90 years young on December 13th! Celebrate in the parks dressed as your favorite Dick Van Dyke character or a chimney sweep. Come celebrate with us as chimney sweeps take over Disneyland! This is an unofficial fan event, but we are working with Disney as well! Dick Van Dyke will have a couple of special appearances that day; we will be sure to post the schedule as soon as we have it from Disney. This event will be in the original Disneyland park (not California Adventure). For those of you who would like to share a special birthday wish or message for Mr. Van Dyke, we will have details on how you may do so in a few short weeks. See below posts for special fan based activities. We are certain that your participation in this event will make this day extra magical and a great time will be had by all.

The Dazzling Adventures of the Disneyland Resort Come to Pasadena in a Float Entry for 2016 Rose Parade

DISNEYLAND RESORT DIAMOND CELEBRATION TO DAZZLE AT 2016 ROSE PARADE (December 2, 2015) – The magic of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration will come to life in the Rose Parade, broadcast live from Pasadena, Calif., on January 1, 2016. This year’s parade theme is “Find Your Adventure,” and the Disneyland Resort will celebrate 60 dazzling years with a float honoring some of the exciting adventures that await guests at the Happiest Place on Earth. A sparkling recreation of Sleeping Beauty Castle sits at the heart of the float, with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse welcoming guests to the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Flanking the castle are two adventures that are brought to life at the Disneyland Resort. The first comes from the world of “Frozen,” featuring Elsa’s ice castle accompanied by Anna, Elsa, Olaf and Kristoff. Then, the float travels to a galaxy far, far away for a thrilling adventure dedicated to the Star Wars films and exciting new Star Wars experiences at Disneyland park. (Disney Parks)
DISNEYLAND RESORT DIAMOND CELEBRATION TO DAZZLE AT 2016 ROSE PARADE (December 2, 2015) – The magic of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration will come to life in the Rose Parade, broadcast live from Pasadena, Calif., on January 1, 2016. This year’s parade theme is “Find Your Adventure,” and the Disneyland Resort will celebrate 60 dazzling years with a float honoring some of the exciting adventures that await guests at the Happiest Place on Earth. A sparkling recreation of Sleeping Beauty Castle sits at the heart of the float, with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse welcoming guests to the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Flanking the castle are two adventures that are brought to life at the Disneyland Resort. The first comes from the world of “Frozen,” featuring Elsa’s ice castle accompanied by Anna, Elsa, Olaf and Kristoff. Then, the float travels to a galaxy far, far away for a thrilling adventure dedicated to the Star Wars films and exciting new Star Wars experiences at Disneyland park. (Disney Parks)

ANAHEIM, Calif. – The magic of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration will come to life as a float in the 127th Rose Parade, broadcast live from Pasadena, Calif., on Jan. 1, 2016. The parade will step off at 8 a.m. (PST) with the theme “Find Your Adventure,” and the Disneyland Resort float honors some of the most exciting adventures awaiting guests at the Happiest Place on Earth.

At the heart of the float will be a sparkling recreation of Sleeping Beauty Castle, complete with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse welcoming everyone to the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Flanking the castle are two adventures that are brought to life at the Disneyland Resort. The first comes from the world of “Frozen” and depicts Elsa’s ice castle – straight out of Arendelle – accompanied by Anna, Elsa, Olaf and Kristoff. A separate adventure depicted on the float makes the jump to hyperspace and travels to a galaxy far, far away for a thrilling adventure dedicated to the Star Wars films and exciting new Star Wars experiences at Disneyland Park.

Since its premiere in spring 2015, the 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration has thrilled resort guests with sparking décor and spectacular entertainment, including the after-dark “Paint the Night” parade, “Disneyland Forever” fireworks and “World of Color – Celebrate!’ The celebration will continue to dazzle Disneyland Resort guests through Sept. 5, 2016.

Since the blockbuster success of the Disney animated motion picture “Frozen” in 2013, Disneyland Resort guests have enjoyed multiple opportunities to relive the adventures of Anna and Elsa – in character encounters at Disney California Adventure Park, on floats in “Mickey’s Soundsational Parade” and “Paint the Night” in Disneyland, in a live “Frozen” show at Fantasy Faire in Disneyland, and in a “Frozen” sing-along celebration. An all-new “Frozen”-inspired stage musical will open in summer 2016 in the Hyperion Theater at Disney California Adventure.

The recent debut of Season of the Force in Tomorrowland at Disneyland has taken guests into the Star Wars galaxy with new experiences as well as enhancements to popular attractions. Star Wars Launch Bay immerses guests in familiar Star Wars-inspired locations where they may encounter favorite characters, take a peek behind-the-scenes of the Star Wars films, and find special exhibits and collectibles. Hyperspace Mountain and a new Star Tours destination from Star Wars: The Force Awakens take guests on thrilling journeys. Additional highlights include “Star Wars: Path of the Jedi,” a short film connecting iconic scenes from the Star Wars saga, and a reimagined “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple” show featuring new characters and a new villain. Star Wars fans are anxiously awaiting the Dec. 18 release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, as well as the new Star Wars-themed land coming to both Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts. Work on the new land will begin in 2016.

The appearance of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration float in the 2016 Rose Parade marks the continuation of a tradition Disney relationship with the Tournament of Roses that began in 1938.

  • The relationship began when characters from the newly premiered “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937) were prominently featured in the parade.
  • Each year since 1960, the Rose Queen and her Royal Court, along with the competing Rose Bowl football teams, have visited Disneyland Resort.
  • In 1966, Walt Disney served as Grand Marshall of the parade. Roy E. Disney, Walt’s nephew and the head of Disney Animation, served as Grand Marshall in 2000. Members of the Disney creative team from Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney Entertainment have served as float judges numerous times.
  • In 2004, Disneyland Resort presented “A Sudden Drop in Pitch.” At the time, it was the tallest float in Rose Parade history (110 feet, with live performers at the top). The float’s title played off that year’s theme of “Music, Music, Music,” and the float was inspired by The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror” attraction, which opened in Disney California Adventure that spring.
  • In 2005, the 50th Anniversary of Disneyland was celebrated with both a dazzling Rose Parade Opening Show and a spectacular castle float called “The Happiest Celebration on Earth.” Mickey Mouse served as Grand Marshall.
  • In 2006, the longest float (150 feet) in Rose Parade history, entitled “The Most Magical Celebration on Earth,” celebrated Disney Parks around the world.
  • In 2013, the characters and fun of Cars Land raced into Pasadena for “Destination: Cars Land,” a float showcasing the landmarks of the newly opened land in Disney California Adventure. The 125-foot long float featured replicas of Lightning McQueen and Sally recreating their fun-spirited road race from the first “Cars” movie. Mater, the tow truck, followed along behind the float.
  • In addition to Rose Parade float entries, Disney has presented many Rose Parade Opening Shows through the years, celebrating such milestones as the 35th Anniversary of Disneyland in 1990, the debut of the Indiana Jones Adventure in Disneyland in 1995, and the motion picture premiere of “Fantasia 2000,” in 2000.

Just in Time for the Holidays, Star Wars Launch Bay, Hyperspace Mountain, Star Wars Characters and More Debut at Disneyland Park

STAR WARS SEASON OF THE FORCE AT DISNEYLAND PARK -- As the Force awakens at the Disneyland Resort, Star Wars Season of the Force brings exciting new experiences to Disneyland Park to celebrate all things Star Wars. Season of the Force in Tomorrowland entertains fans of the famous film saga and guests looking forward to the future Star Wars-themed land. Among the elements entering this galaxy are Star Wars Launch Bay, an interactive space in the newly named Tomorrowland Expo Center; Star Wars: Path of the Jedi, a cinematic overview of the Star Wars saga; a new adventure in Star Tours Ð The Adventures Continue, and the reimagined attraction, Hyperspace Mountain. Opening Dec. 8, Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple enhances this popular show with new characters and a new villain. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland) -
STAR WARS SEASON OF THE FORCE AT DISNEYLAND PARK — As the Force awakens at the Disneyland Resort, Star Wars Season of the Force brings exciting new experiences to Disneyland Park to celebrate all things Star Wars. Season of the Force in Tomorrowland entertains fans of the famous film saga and guests looking forward to the future Star Wars-themed land. Among the elements entering this galaxy are Star Wars Launch Bay, an interactive space in the newly named Tomorrowland Expo Center; Star Wars: Path of the Jedi, a cinematic overview of the Star Wars saga; a new adventure in Star Tours Ð The Adventures Continue, and the reimagined attraction, Hyperspace Mountain. Opening Dec. 8, Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple enhances this popular show with new characters and a new villain. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland) –
STAR WARS LAUNCH BAY — In the heart of Tomorrowland, Star Wars Launch Bay is the central locale for guests to celebrate all things Star Wars. Disneyland park guests are welcomed to this multi-sensory space with the iconic phrase, ÒA long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.ÉÓ Once inside, they may encounter beloved Star Wars characters, play the latest Star Wars interactive video games, explore galleries full of treasured memorabilia and authentic replicas of large-scale Star Wars artifacts, step into a Star Wars-themed cantina, and have access to Star Wars merchandise. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort)
STAR WARS LAUNCH BAY — In the heart of Tomorrowland, Star Wars Launch Bay is the central locale for guests to celebrate all things Star Wars. Disneyland park guests are welcomed to this multi-sensory space with the iconic phrase, ÒA long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.ÉÓ Once inside, they may encounter beloved Star Wars characters, play the latest Star Wars interactive video games, explore galleries full of treasured memorabilia and authentic replicas of large-scale Star Wars artifacts, step into a Star Wars-themed cantina, and have access to Star Wars merchandise. (Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort)ANAHEIM, Calif. – As the Force awakens at the Disneyland Resortdebuts Nov. 16, bringing exciting new experiences to Disneyland Park to celebrate all things . Adding to the annual Holidays season and the dazzling 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration, Season of the Force in Tomorrowland will entertain fans of the famous film saga and guests looking forward to the future -themed land.

 

ANAHEIM, Calif. – As the Force awakens at the Disneyland ResortStar Wars Season of the Force debuts Nov. 16, bringing exciting new experiences to Disneyland Park to celebrate all things Star Wars. Adding to the annual Holidays season and the dazzling 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration, Season of the Force in Tomorrowland will entertain fans of the famous film saga and guests looking forward to the future Star Wars-themed land.

Among the elements entering this galaxy are Star Wars Launch Bay, an interactive space in the newly named Tomorrowland Expo Center; Star Wars: Path of the Jedi, a cinematic overview of the Star Wars saga; a new adventure in Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, and the reimagined attraction, Hyperspace Mountain. Opening Dec. 8, Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple enhances this popular show with new characters and a new villain.

To further immerse guests in the saga, Star Wars-themed décor will celebrate iconic characters and moments from the films, and Star Wars-inspired food and beverage will be available.

Season of the Force arrives just in time for the holidays, giving guests in Tomorrowland a glimpse into the world of the upcoming film, Star WarsThe Force Awakens, which is scheduled to premiere Dec. 18, 2015. The Holiday season at the Disneyland Resort runs from Nov. 13, 2015 through Jan. 6, 2016.

The new Season of the Force Star Wars experiences include:

Star Wars Launch Bay: In the heart of Tomorrowland, Star Wars Launch Bay is the central locale for guests to celebrate all things Star Wars. Guests will be welcomed to this multi-sensory space with the iconic phrase, “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.…” Once inside, they may encounter beloved Star Wars characters, play the latest Star Wars interactive video games, explore galleries full of treasured memorabilia and authentic replicas of large-scale Star Wars artifacts, step into a Star Wars-themed cantina, and have access to Star Wars merchandise.

  • Special Character Encounters – After entering a themed atrium with authentic replicas of Star Wars props, guests may Journey to the dark side and come face to face with Darth Vader, or they may choose the light side by stopping in at a makeshift Rebel base to meet the most famous co-pilot in the galaxy, Chewbacca.
  • Launch Bay Theater – Guests will hear directly from the creative minds behind the Star Wars saga in a short video that includes exclusive interviews with the directors, writers, producers and other key crew members who continue to bring the saga to life.
  • The Cantina – This setting, inspired by the unsavory “hives of scum and villainy” in the Star Wars galaxy, is a fun place to explore and take photos near elements of the cantina, such as a holochess game table.
  • Star Wars Game Center – Guests will play the latest and greatest video games, including Disney Infinity 3.0 with park-exclusive Toy Box levels.
  • Themed Galleries – Special galleries will be located throughout Star Wars Launch Bay.
    • The Dark Side Gallery features pieces of Stormtrooper armor and Sith lightsabers.
    • The Light Side Gallery displays rebel flight helmets and Jedi lightsabers.
    • Authentic replicas of props and costumes from both the light and dark sides of Star Wars: The Force Awakens will appear in the Preview Gallery.
    • Models of famous starships and their pilots will be on display in the Starship Gallery.
  • Star Wars Launch Bay Cargo – Guests may bring home high-end artifacts and treasures, including signed memorabilia, studio models and personalized D-Tech on Demand mobile device cases.

Star Wars: Path of The JediIn the Tomorrowland Theater, guests will relive stories from the Star Wars saga – or discover them for the first time – in this short film compilation. “Star Wars: Path of the Jedi” connects iconic scenes from the films in fun new ways, following the journey of Luke Skywalker. It includes moments from the new movie Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue: Fans of this popular attraction will experience journeys involving new characters and adventures from Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Based on the Star Wars films, Star Tours takes guests to multiple Star Wars destinations where they interact with characters from throughout the saga. And it is all in 3D. With an eye-popping digital presentation leveraging Dolby 3D to deliver a vivid and realistic experience, a dramatic musical score and motion simulator-based technology, guests are immersed in the Star Wars galaxy like never before on a theme park attraction.

Jedi Training: Trials of the TempleThis popular interactive show is being reimagined, and a new version will open in Tomorrowland Dec. 8 with Darth Vader and the Seventh Sister Inquisitor, a new villain from the popular Disney XD series Star Wars Rebels.

Hyperspace Mountain:  The classic Space Mountain attraction is reimagined as Hyperspace Mountain, thrusting guests into the darkness for an action-packed battle between Rebel X-wings and Imperial TIE fighters. A new soundtrack, inspired by the films’ musical themes, adds to the thrills.

Stormtrooper Patrols: In Tomorrowland, guests may to come face to face with First Order stormtroopers who will patrol the area near Star Wars Launch Bay and Star Tours – The Adventures Continue.

Galactic FoodGuests will experience Star Wars through their palates, as well, with tasty food and beverages inspired by a galaxy far, far away. The Galactic Grill, in the Tomorrowland Terrace location, will feature a dark side and a light side menu, and Pizza Port will offer new Star Wars-inspired menu items.

Season of the Force at Disneyland, along with Season of the Force experiences at Walt Disney World Resort in December and January, will further expand the Star Wars presence at both resorts ahead of the new Star Wars-themed lands coming to Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

Also at the Disneyland Resort, guests continue to enjoy the 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration, with sparkling décor in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, plus a dazzling array of after-dark shows, all of which are presented nightly. In Disneyland, “Paint the Night – All-New Electrical Parade” creates a river of color down Main Street, U.S.A., with spectacular special effects, sensational floats, energetic performances and unforgettable music. The “Disneyland Forever” fireworks show in Disneyland lights up the resort with dynamic pyrotechnics and magical projections that surround the audience. In Disney California Adventure Park, the magical water, film and special effects presentation “World of Color – Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney” pays a fun, surprise-filled tribute to Walt Disney, whose fertile imagination led to the creation of Disneyland.

For more information about the Disneyland Resort, see www.Disneyland.com or visit www.DisneyParksBlog.com. These sites are updated regularly.

About the Disneyland Resort The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and the reimagined Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical 973-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel with its “day-at-the-beach” fun. For information on attractions and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.

Disneyland Kicks off the Holiday Season with Disney magic and fun.

12208257_10208456056385190_180368202392096293_n11040372_10208456059185260_5018750826291241078_n12227058_10208456057225211_8713943587893081000_n

Disneyland's 'Small World' rings in the holidays. The Holiday season kicked off on Friday, November 13 in tandem with Disneyland's 60th anniversary celebration.
Disneyland’s ‘Small World’ rings in the holidays. The Holiday season kicked off on Friday, November 13 in tandem with Disneyland’s 60th anniversary celebration.  Photos by Margie Anne Clark/Los Angeles Life and Style, City Life Communications

Anaheim, Calif. Disneyland kicked off the holiday season on Friday, November 13, all decked out in celebration of the holidays.

To add to the excitement, the park is still celebrating its 60th Diamond Anniversary with fun parades and pretty decorations.

The Haunted Mansion got into the spirit, pun intended, with a fun elaboration of "The Nightmare Before Christmas theme.
The Haunted Mansion got into the spirit, pun intended, with a fun elaboration of “The Nightmare Before Christmas theme. Photo by Margie Anne Clark

 

Pantages Theatre in Hollywood Presents The international Irish dance phenomenon returns by popular demand with RIVERDANCE – The 20th Anniversary World Tour. December 1- December 6

The international Irish dance phenomenon returns by popular demand with RIVERDANCE - The 20th Anniversary World Tour will open at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood on Dec. 1 and will run through Dec. 6.
The international Irish dance phenomenon returns by popular demand with RIVERDANCE – The 20th Anniversary World Tour will open at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood on Dec. 1 and will run through Dec. 6.

RIVERDANCE – The 20th Anniversary World Tour

December 1 – December 6, 2015
Recommended for Ages 5 and Up. In consideration of audiences, no one under 5 admitted to the theatre. All patrons must have a ticket.

The international Irish dance phenomenon returns by popular demand with RIVERDANCE – The 20th Anniversary World Tour. The production, which is composed by Bill Whelan, produced by Moya Doherty and directed by John McColgan, is currently celebrating a sold out, critically-acclaimed run across Europe and Asia and will arrive in North America in Fall 2015.

RIVERDANCE – The 20th Anniversary World Tour is an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song. Drawing on Irish traditions, the combined talents of the performers propel Irish dancing and music into the present day, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures.

Harry Potter Icon, Daniel Radcliffe to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood, Calif. – The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Daniel Radcliffe will be honored with the 2,565th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday, November 12th at 11:30 a.m. PST. The star in the category of Motion Pictures will be dedicated in front of The Dolby Theatre at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard. “Fans of all ages have been waiting in anticipation of Daniel’s star ceremony. They are constantly asking when it will happen. Finally, we have him here in Hollywood, and we are proud to dedicate his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame,” stated Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremonies.

Helping emcee and Hollywood Chamber President/CEO Leron Gubler to unveil the star will be Chris Columbus and Chris Hardwick.

Hollywood Chamber to Honor Daniel Radcliffe with Walk of Fame Star

Daniel Radcliffe was born in London, England and began his career at age nine as the young David Copperfield in the BBC/PBS presentation of the classic Charles Dickens novel.

Radcliffe’s current film is the 20th Century Fox thrilling adventure “Victor Frankenstein” which will be released worldwide on November 25th. His next feature is “Now You See Me: The Second Act” in June 2016 for Lionsgate. This year he wrapped two independent films, “Swiss Army Man” and “Imperium.” He was most recently seen in the BBC telefilm “The Gamechangers.” In 2014, he starred in the horror-thriller “Horns,” and the romantic comedy “What If.” His other films include Sony Pictures Classics’ “Kill Your Darlings,” He starred last year as Billy in  Martin McDonagh’s comic masterpiece “The Cripple of Inishmaan.” The play made its way to Broadway from London’s West End, where it debuted in 2013.

Since completing the final installment in the series of eight “Harry Potter” films in 2010, Radcliffe has become a diverse and acclaimed talent. In 2011, he starred in a ten-month sell-out run of the Broadway musical “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.” In 2012, Radcliffe starred in “The Woman in Black,” which has become the most successful British horror film of all time. In 2013, Ovation aired Radcliffe’s four-part TV mini-series, “A Young Doctor’s Notebook,” a wildly original comedy drama based on a collection of short stories by celebrated Russian author Mikhail Bulgakov. Radcliffe portrayed the younger doctor, who has exchanges with his older self, played by Jon Hamm. Season two aired in 2014.

In 2012, Radcliffe hosted “Saturday Night Live” and was voted “Entertainer of the Year” by Entertainment Weekly, as the most talented and original performer of 2011. He also won two Teen Choice Awards and a Scream Award, as well as two nominations for the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Movie Actor and Favorite Movie Star Under 25.

Radcliffe starred as Alan Strang, in both the 2007 West End and 2008 Broadway productions of Peter Shaffer’s “Equus,” winning the award for Best Leading Actor at the Annual Theatre Fan Choice Awards, organized by Broadway World, as well as Best Leading Actor and Breakthrough Performance Awards at the Broadway.com Audience Awards. He also garnered Drama League and Drama Desk nominations for his performance in the play. The London and Broadway productions of “Equus” were directed by Thea Sharrock and also starred Richard Griffiths.

A lifelong fan of “The Simpsons,” Radcliffe has lent his voice twice to the show. First, to the character of a brooding vampire named Edmund for the show’s “Treehouse of Horror XXI” special, entitled “Tweenlight,” which aired in 2010. He then voiced the character Diggs, a new transfer student whom Bart befriends. Previously, Radcliffe made a guest appearance as himself in the award-winning HBO/BBC series “Extras” starring Ricky Gervais. He recently lent his voice to “Robot Chicken” and “BoJack Horseman.”

Radcliffe is a spokesperson for The Trevor Project which awarded him the Trevor Hero Award. He recorded several PSAs and met with their volunteers and participated in training with the Trevor Youth Advisory Council. He is actively vocal about equality and suicide prevention in LGBT youth.

Watch LIVE as the Hollywood Chamber honors Daniel Radcliffe on www.walkoffame.com.

Cirque Du Soleil’s Kurios, Cabinet of Curiosites Premier coming to Dodger Stadium on Dec. 10, 2015, Now Playing at he OC Fair and Event Center through Nov. 29

KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities

Los Angeles, OC, Calif. – Cirque Du Soleil’s Kurios, Cabinet of Curiosites Premier is coming to Dodger Stadium on Dec. 10, 2015.  The fantasy is Cirque Du Soleil’s 35th production since 1984 Kurios is now playing at he OC Fair and Event Center through Nov. 29.

In an alternate yet familiar past, in a place where wonders abound for those who trust their imagination, a Seeker discovers that in order to glimpse the marvels that lie just below the surface, we must first learn to close our eyes.

In his larger-than-life curio cabinet, the Seeker is convinced that there exists a hidden, invisible world – a place where the craziest ideas and the grandest dreams lie waiting. A collection of otherworldly characters suddenly steps into his makeshift mechanical world. When the outlandish, benevolent characters turn his world upside down with a touch of poetry and humor in an attempt to ignite the Seeker’s imagination, his curios jump to life one by one before his very eyes.

What if by engaging our imagination and opening our minds we could unlock the door to a world of wonders?

About the show

KURIOS™ – Cabinet of Curiosities is Cirque du Soleil’s 35th production since 1984. Cabinets of curiosities are the ancestors of museums, also known as cabinet of wonder in the Renaissance Europe. Aristocrats, members of the merchant class and early practitioners of science formed collections of historical relics, works of art or mysterious travel souvenirs or artifacts. KURIOS™ – Cabinet of Curiosities has a cast of 46 artists from 15 different countries. About 60 percent of the artists have already worked with Cirque du Soleil before.

https://nliven.cirquedusoleil.com/tickets/Series/KURLA

 

Cirque Du Soleil's Kurios, Cabinet of Curiosites now playing at the OC Fair and Event Center through Nov. 29. Premier event is coming to Dodger Stadium on Dec. 10, 2015.
Cirque Du Soleil’s Kurios, Cabinet of Curiosites now playing at the OC Fair and Event Center through Nov. 29. Premier event is coming to Dodger Stadium on Dec. 10, 2015.KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities.

 

Tickets for KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities in Los Angeles
at Dodger Stadium

From December 10, 2015 to February 7, 2016

Los Angeles Life and Style – City Life Communications – L. A. Life and Style – SCV Style – Entertainment Magazine