Events: EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival

A Look Beyond the Flowers and Seminars

FGF Beauty and the Beast Topiary

And beyond the awesome topiaries too!

Today we are discussing the Flower and Garden Festival held each year in Epcot at Walt Disney World.

My wife and I have only attended this event once, back in 2010. Karen had always wanted to see the flower displays and topiaries but I was unsure if the extra trip was necessary, being as Epcot always had such beautiful floral displays anyway.

I was pleasantly surprised at how much more beautiful the park was, and had to agree that it was indeed worth visiting during the festival. But I’m not here to highlight the flowers, topiaries, seminars, or exclusive merchandise. I always like to see what’s off the beaten path! And when we wandered off that path, here is what we found:

EPCOT 56

Butterfly Tent

Each year, just beside and slightly behind the Canada Pavilion, Disney sets up a butterfly tent where you can enjoy interacting with many different species, including the Floral Gigantes pictured above!

EPCOT 66

Disney also likes to use these special events, such as the FGF, to promote the latest movie or franchise offering. This particular year, the festival featured the new Fairy series based on Tinker Bell’s early life and adventures:

EPCOT 70 +

Welcome to the Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden

This garden area featured many little fairy houses and sitting and play areas. There had been a contest to design a fairy house, and the winner had her entry featured for all to see at the festival. There was also a small area to promote The Princess and the Frog movie, but it wasn’t very impressive:

EPCOT 101 +

Simple flat cut-outs of some of the characters

The theme of the 2010 Flower and Garden Festival was Celebrate the Great Outdoors, and I thought I’d finish my post with an aerial view, taken from the Monorail, of the topiaries just inside the main entrance. These change every year to reflect that year’s theme:

EPCOT 165

So if you’re intending to visit the 2015 Flower and Garden Festival, be sure to veer off the beaten path and see what else you can discover!

Posted in Events, Magical Blogorail, Special Events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

In the Wild: Snow White Toy Sink

I used to buy just about anything Disney I found so that I could feature it on my old site, Disleelandia, the Virtual Disneyana Archive. But now that I’ve rebooted my blog, I’ve slowed down in my purchasing of Disneyana. But that doesn’t mean I don’t still love Disneyana!

But now, instead of buying an item, I might just photograph it. Like this little piece:

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 031

Snow White is still trying to get the Dwarfs to clean up!

This is a small tin toy that is about 11″ cubed. It has great character designs on the front but is non-functioning and hollow inside.

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 032

The top seems to have sustained the most damage/aging

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 033     The sides are rather plain

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 034

Inside (no plumbing hookups available)

I found this at a large antique barn in Peterborough, ON. It has been there for a long time, even though the price of $18.00 CAN is not that bad. This toy dates from the 1970’s. It was made by Wolverine Toy (company) of Booneville, Arkansas 72927 and is branded ‘Walt Disney Productions’.

To see more of these Snow White kitchen appliances, visit Filmic Light.

Posted in Animation, Characters, Collectibles, In the Wild, Kitchen, Princesses, Toys | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Found Disney: Snow White Toy Sink

I used to buy just about anything Disney I found so that I could feature it on my old site, Disleelandia, the Virtual Disneyana Archive. But now that I’ve rebooted my blog, I’ve slowed down in my purchasing of Disneyana. But that doesn’t mean I don’t still love Disneyana!

But now, instead of buying an item, I might just photograph it. Like this little piece:

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 031

Snow White is still trying to get the Dwarfs to clean up!

This is a small tin toy that is about 11″ cubed. It has great character designs on the front but is non-functioning and hollow inside.

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 032

The top seems to have sustained the most damage/aging

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 033     The sides are rather plain

iPhone Disney Cruise Pictures 034

Inside (no plumbing hookups available)

I found this at a large antique barn in Peterborough, ON. It has been there for a long time, even though the price of $18.00 CAN is not that bad. This toy dates from the 1970’s. It was made by Wolverine Toy (company) of Booneville, Arkansas 72927 and is branded ‘Walt Disney Productions’.

To see more of these Snow White kitchen appliances, visit Filmic Light.

Posted in Animation, Found Disney | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Which of Disney’s FAB FIVE Are You?

Each of Disney’s characters has a distinct personality and qualities unique to themselves. Now you could waste your time taking an Internet Buzz Quiz to find out which Disney character you are most like… or… you could waste your time reading this post. I recommend the latter.

In this post I will summarize the primary reasons why you might like to be either Mickey or Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, or Pluto. Then, rather than having some randomizer program pick a character for you, you will have the information you need to make your own informed choice. Well, at least a choice. So here we go!

MICKEY MOUSE

Mickey

Mickey is a little guy in a big world. He’s spent his fair share of time being picked on and laughed at, but despite that, he always comes out on top. He’s a natural leader with the charisma to draw almost anyone to his side. From humble beginnings as a steamboat Pilot to rising to become the world’s most well-known corporate Icon, Mickey’s done almost everything in-between.

And how about that love life? A one-woman man who’s earned the love and respect of one of the world’s sweetest females! And although he hasn’t been able to seal the deal with a proposal, you’ve gotta admire his stick-to-itivness!

And let’s face it, if your obituary could start with “It all started with… YOU!” how could you not choose to be Mickey Mouse?

MINNIE MOUSE

Minnie

Minnie is one of the world’s first independent women. She has had many suitors over the years, but has decided to remain single. She has made it on her own in a variety of occupations, owning some of the most desirable real estate along the way. And when it comes to personality, who has more kindness, compassion, and love than our polka-dot Queen?

Although a modern woman, Minnie has made no secret of her love for that one special someone, but is content to wait until the time is right to press for committment.

Do you have a song written about you? Minnie does! And it’s a chart topper to remember. So if you choose to be Minnie Mouse, the song can be about ‘Yoo Hoo’ too!

GOOFY

Goofy

What can we say about the Goof? He’s a fun-loving free spirit with no clue that he’s a fun-loving free spirit. In fact, he hasn’t got a clue… about anything. But that’s OK! Goofy knows the world owes him a living but has the class to never show up to pick up the pay check. He’s too busy being loyal, helpful, and the best friend anyone could ever hope for.

Goofy isn’t overly good with the ladies. Always a gentleman but never a boyfriend, Goofy is just satisfied to show respect and to lend a helping hand. How this guy ever ended up with a son will forever remain one of life’s little mysteries, right up there with the Bermuda Triangle and spam.

So far you may not think that Goofy is a contender for your vote. But imagine going through life without a care, with nothing bothering you, and being regarded as loveable by millions. Are you sure you don’t want to be Goofy?

DONALD DUCK

Donald

Certainly the most explosive personality on our list, Donald certainly knows how to blow off a little steam! And just steam in general. And steam in excess. Not one to hide how he feels, everyone around him always know exactly where he stands on the issues. There are no shades of gray for Donald, everything is just plain black.

His long-time and long-suffering girlfriend Daisy Duck knows the other side of Donald, though. Behind the bluster and blasting lies a heart of gold that motivates him to go above and beyond for his friends. A more loyal friend to have at your side one could not ask for, even if he would be cowering behind you instead.

Donald has stepped up and taken care of his three young nephews for years, and that has to be a big factor in making him a contender for your vote!

PLUTO

Pluto

Sometimes it’s a dog’s life, and no one knows that better than Pluto. Starting out as a nameless mutt and finally finding a home with Mickey Mouse himself, this canny canine has defined loyalty for us all! From protecting his master from danger to saving kittens from certain death, this pooch has proven his prestigious pedigree.

Unfortunately ladies, Pluto has been known to play the field as the original Playa of the animal kingdom. Seen with many different partners, usually with more than just a few pups around, Pluto may have a problem with monogamy. But on the upside, he likes big families!

CHOICE TIME

Time to choose! Now that you know the pros and cons of each character, which one would you like to be?

  • Mickey Mouse: The little guy living big?
  • Minnie Mouse: The independent success?
  • Goofy: The oblivious free-spirit?
  • Donald Duck: The explosive heart of gold?
  • Pluto: The loyal playa?

Please take a moment to share your choice in the comment section. And if you have just a moment more, please let us know why!

Psst! I chose Goofy!
Posted in Humor | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Mickey Mouse Character Subway Bag

The other day I had a craving for a sub sandwich so made my way to the local Subway Restaurant. While I was paying I just happened to notice this little Disney promotional item behind the Cashier:

Mickey Mouse Bag 004

Subway Mickey tote

This picture is from a scene in the new series of Mickey Mouse Shorts called Croissant de Triomphe. It was the first episode of Season One. If you haven’t seen these great reimagined shorts yet, you should pick up the DVD:

Mickey Mouse Bag 002     Mickey Mouse Bag 003

Subway has replaced McDonald’s as the ‘fast-food’ marketing tie-in restaurant with Disney and often has cool promotional stuff, although usually it’s a bag with an image from the latest Disney property. But in this case, it also had a toy:

Mickey Mouse Bag 009 Mickey Mouse Bag 007

Packaging and puzzle

I almost missed this toy and only saw it as I opened the bag to set up this shot:

Mickey Mouse Bag 008

These bags aren’t made very well and won’t hold up to much abuse but do still make a cute little keepsake.

The tag on the bag says “Watch new Mickey Mouse Shorts on Family (Network)”. Season Two is underway and I can’t wait for the DVD! Are you and you’re family enjoying this new take on the Fab Five?

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Places: The Most Romantic Disney Restaurant – Sci Fi Diner

Today we are discussing one of the most romantic Disney restaurants:

I’m not the most romantic guy in the world, Walt Disney World included, because I’m not really the tuxedo type. Expensive restaurants with microscopic food portions just don’t do it for me! Fortunately, they don’t do it for my wife either, which makes us a perfect fit.

So what we look for in a romantic setting is something that harkens back to a simpler time with loads of nostalgia and fun. So which restaurant in all of Walt Disney World would fit such a description? Let me narrow it down for you: Which restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios would fit such a description? Well, let me show you…

Sci Fi Signage

Sci Fi Dine In Theater Restaurant

Sci Fi Restaurant Interior

(picture from official website)

Sci-fi. Bad movie trailers. Sitting in a fake car. Good food. Yup. This has romantic written all over it! Oh, and great mood lighting:

Sci Fi Inside Cars

So keep in mind, if you are so inclined, you can sit in the back seat. Hint, hint. Just keep the intimate moments to a PG level, please. People are trying to eat. And speaking of eating, why not take a look at the excellent menu. I recommend the burgers, both regular and gluten-free. My wife tells me that as far as gluten-free goes, the burgers served here are far and away among the best in all of WDW.

The entertainment is also fun (but admittedly, not very romantic):

Sci Fi Screen

How did he know we were kissing in the back seat???

Here’s how Disney describes the overall experience: “Watch campy clips as you picnic under the stars in a classic car-shaped booth or table. It’s always nighttime at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, and there’s always something savory—and spooky—headed your way: attacking aliens, marauding mummies, rampaging robots and more! Enter the Hollywood-style soundstage as a classic car hop guides you to your very own automo-booth or table. Kitschy vintage memorabilia, the illuminated tail lights of your fellow drive-in diners and a sky full of twinkling stars set the mood as you place your order. Road-ready picnic tables are located at the back of the theater, where there’s even an old-fashioned, drive-in-style concession stand!

Again, this might not be everyone’s idea of a romantic evening, but it is for us! Oh, and be sure to take a picture with your sweetheart in the car parked outside:

Sci Fi Outside Car

Thank you for joining me today. Now get out there and make a reservation for dinner with your significant other!

Posted in Food, Places, Restaurants | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

‘Walt Disney Presents’ Long Play Record

For most reading this post, I hope you still remember what LP means and what a ‘record’ is! In North America these vinyl discs are making a comeback. New recording acts are using this format to tap into the nostalgia of the recording industry and it’s a trend I appreciate!

I have many vintage vinyls in my personal collection and am always looking for more, especially Disney titles that will never be re-released in any other format. Titles like A Child’s Introduction to Melody and the Instruments of the Orchestra:

Disney Record FC

Disney Record BC

This is based on a Disney Short called Toot, Whistle, Plunk and Boom which was later run on the Disney’s Wonderful World of Color television show. It featured an Owl who was trying to teach a room full of feathered pupils about music. You can imagine how this went when one of the pupils had the name of Bertie Birdbrain and another had to take off her dunce cap in order to hear the teacher!

A standout feature of this record is that it is narrated by Thurl Ravenscroft (of Haunted Mansion and Tony the Tiger fame, among others.)

Disney Record S1 Disney Record S2

Disneyland Records

I bought this at the last Sam the Record Man that just happens to be where I live. They carry movies and all of the latest music but with a selection of used vinyl as well.

If you still have a record player in your home, do you collect old Disney vinyl too?

Posted in Music, Shorts | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Disney Cruise Line Model – Concept vs. Reality

Back in 2013 I visited Disneyland for the first time and just had to tour the Disneyland Hotel, although I was not able to stay there. Interestingly, I found a model of the Disney Fantasy ship on display in one of the hallways. I’ll post the photo below along with an actual photo of the real ship for comparison:

DLH 29

Disney Fantasy

(stock image from Internet)

We all know that between the time a concept is released to the public and the actual thing gets produced, many changes usually happen.

The main difference I see in this case are the decks are more open amidships, instead of being portholed from bow to stern. This breaks up the pattern a bit and makes for  a better look.

But otherwise, the model is pretty much bang on!

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Found Disney: El Capitan Hidden Mickey

You just never know where you might find a Hidden Mickey. I guess that’s why they call them ‘hidden’. But while attending an event in the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood I had to navigate through some back hallways and stairwells to get to an interview.

On the way, this is what I saw:

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OK, not very well hidden!

If you have a chance to visit the El Capitan, it’s unlikely that you would ever see this Hidden Mickey. Normally guests aren’t allowed in these backstage areas.

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Presents ‘The Gorilla Moon’

It could be a movie title, but it’s not:

Gorilla Moon

Here’s looking at you!

I took this picture while visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom back in 2007. At first I didn’t know what I was seeing, but then it became obvious! I don’t know what this gorilla was looking for in those bushes, but he wasn’t to concerned about dignity while he was doing it.

You can now lay claim to the dubious honor of having been mooned by a gorilla!

Posted in Photography, Theme Parks | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments