Disneyland Park Update

Update for December 11-17, 2006

Go directly to: News & Views | Current Refurbishment/Attraction Closures | Park Events | Discounts and Promotions | Park Schedule/Blockout Dates

News and Views

A late addition

Last week, MousePlanet photographer sent along a quick note on an event he attended up in Sacramento and we forgot to include it when we published this update yesterday. Better late than never, though, and it is always great to see the faces behind the voices, so here it is.

Last Friday (dec 1), “Stage Nine” in Sacramento had a VIP reception for a
special commissioned piece [litho] of Disney art, “Arriving in Style.” It was commissioned by the Sacramento
Convention & Visitors Bureau and Stage Nine Entertainment Store….

I was invited, so I took my camera too.

The VIPs. From left to right: Troy Carlson (store owner), Bill Farmer (Pluto and Goofy), Manny Hernandez (artist), Tony Anselmo (Donald Duck), Russi Taylor (Minnie Mouse), Steve Hammond (convention bureau), and Wayne Allwine (Mickey Mouse). Photo by Frank Anzalone.

“…Disney’s Collector’s Edition authorized and commissioned this piece to
show this unique vision celebrating Old Sacramento and its railway’s
connection with the ‘Fab Five’ arriving in style.”

The art portrays the Old Town Sacramento and the train influence it
had on Walt, together with the Disney characters. The artist is Manny
Hernandez was on hand to show his work… The character voices were also
there (the first time they have ever done a gallery signing all together) –
Wayne Allwine (voice of Mickey – also celebrating his 30th year doing the
voice), Russi Taylor (Minnie), Bill Farmer (Goofy & Pluto), and Tony Anselmo
(Donald – also Donald’s animator!).

Artist Manny Hernandez with his painting of the Fab Five in Old Town Sacramento. Photo by Frank Anzalone.

They had a quick Q&A session and then a signing event.

Stage Nine Entertainment Store
102 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
916-447-3623

After the presentation, there was a Q&A session with the voices of the Fab Five. Photo by Frank Anzalone.

An unprecedented signing opportunity. Photo by Frank Anzalone.

Russi Taylor and Wayne Allwine, aka Minnie and Mickey Mouse, posing together. Photo by Frank Anzalone.

Construction Update

More of the old show building has been torn out. Photo by David Michael.

Not a whole lot of change out California Screamin’. Photo by David Michael.

There’s still quite a bit of work and cleanup that needs to be done if the Disneyland Monorail is going to return to service by this Friday, as scheduled. Photo by David Michael.

Be a part of Pirates

Somehow we had missed this, but as part of the DVD release of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest you can win having your likeness caricatured as a new pirate inside the ride. Despite some qualms about repeatedly making alterations to existing rides a salable gimmick the prize sounds pretty cool.

You can enter the drawing once per day per person through January 31, 2007 at the Disney Pirates Web site. The grand prize winner will get:

• A 3 day/2 night trip for four to Glendale, California where all members of the party 16 or older will receive a tour of Walt Disney Imagineering, the winner will sit with an Imagineer to do the artwork necessary, and the party will have lunch with an Imagineer.

• A 3 day/2 night trip for four to Disneyland, including the Pirates of the Caribbean suite at the Disneyland Hotel, use of a VIP tour guide at the park, park hopper tickets, covered meals (including one lunch at Blue Bayou), and a $100 gift card for buying merchandise.

The two trips must be taken at least six weeks apart. The prize value is listed as $20,398 so if you win be sure to share with us all of the details but keep in mind the tax bill you’re going to have.

Remember the Rams?

It’s short notice but if you’re reading this on Monday and are still holding onto your increasingly dim memories of professional football in Los Angeles, you may want to head out to ESPNZone in Downtown Disney this afternoon.

Beginning at 4:30 several stars of the Los Angeles Rams will be on hand to pose for photographs and sign autographs for donations. The event is tied to the Monday Night Football game between the St. Louis Rams and Chicago Bears and is a fundraiser for the Aliah Sweet Fragile Hearts Foundation. The foundation helps children cope with a sibling suffering life-threatening illness.

The Rams, an original American Football League team, moved from Cleveland to Los Angeles in 1946 and them relocated to St. Louis following its 49th season in the region (1995). From 1981 through the teams departure, the Rams actually played in Anaheim (at Anaheim Stadium) but kept the Los Angeles Rams name.

Players scheduled to be on hand for the event include (as always, subject to change):

• Vince Ferragamo, quarterback (1977-1980, 1982-1984)
• Ron Brown, wide receiver (1984-1989, 1991) and Olympic gold medalist
• Duval Love, offensive lineman (1985-1991)
• Buck Lansford, offensive lineman (1958-1960)
• LeRoy Irvin, defensive back (1980-1989)
• Joe Sweet, wide receiver (1972-1973)
• Carver Shannon, cornerback (1962-1964)
• Reggie Doss, defensive end (1978-1987)
• Anthony Davis, running back (1978)

We haven’t seen any information on what kind of “donation” will be expected.

This and that…

…They’ve been running test vehicles through Matterhorn Bobsleds in the last week and everything looks good for the attraction to open by the end of the week, if not sooner. Rumors have come and gone of soft openings over the last few days and so far they haven’t happened. Unless you see something saying “I’ve seen it and it is open” you probably shouldn’t make a special trip.

If it hasn’t already reopened for guests, Matterhorn Bobsleds will definitely be running by Friday. Photo by David Michael.

…A new cart called “Houdini’s” and selling magic tricks has opened in Downtown Disney across from World of Disney. Two magic stores within 500 feet of each other (counting the one on Main Street) seems like a higher density that can readily be supported but time will tell.

Don’t keep it to yourself! Send us your news tips, rumors, and comments. E-mail us here.

Current Refurbishments and Attraction Closures

Disneyland

• Disneyland Monorail closed August 21 – December 14 for station remodel and queue construction for Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. Will likely close again in January.


• Matterhorn Bobsleds closed September 5 – December 15 for complete refurbishment of track and ride systems.


• Dumbo the Flying Elephant closed January 8 – January 17 for refurbishment.
• Haunted Mansion closed January 8 – January 18 for removal of Christmas Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay.
• it’s a small world closed January 22 – February 1 for removal of Christmas overlay.
• Gadget’s Go Coaster closed January 22 – February 2 for refurbishment.
• Splash Mountain closed January 23 – early May for major refurbishment. No major changes are expected but lift mechanics are being replaced.


• Professor Barnaby Owl’s Photographic Art Studio closed January 23 – early May due to closure of Splash Mountain (store is primarily for sale of Splash Mountain ride photos).
• Disneyland Railroad closed February 5 – March 29 for track work and to allow heavy equipment access to Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage.


• Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride closed February 19 – March 29 for an extensive refurbishment.


• Fantasmic! closed February 20 – March 16 likely due to other construction on the Tom Sawyer Island.


• Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage is currently under construction and will open sometime around summer 2007.

Disney’s California Adventure

• Events

  If you know of any events, official or unofficial, that should be listed here, let us know.

  December

  
  
  • Lion King returns to Pantages Theater. Beginning November 16 for eight week run. Call 323-463-4367 for details and tickets. Perusal tickets are available to Annual Passholders and Disney Visa members through June 10.
    
  • Nightmare Before Christmas at El Capitan Theater. October 19-January 4. (link). After November 3, it is only two late shows per day.
  
  
  • The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause at El Capitan Theater. November 3-January 4 (link). Screening includes a stage musical show before each show.
  
  
  • Believe Holiday Fireworks show. Beginning November 9 for daily holiday fireworks show that will run through the end of the year.
    
  • A Christmas Fantasy parade. Beginning November 17 for daily parade that will run through the end of the year.

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    Current Discounts & Promotions

    This section is taking a week off (just one this time, we promise!) while we get it current again.

    Several current promotions offer discounted admission to the Disneyland Resort. For convenience sake, we have grouped the discount offers based on the number of days the tickets are valid. Check out the category that best matches the amount of time you plan to spend at the resort, and pick the offer which works best for you. And keep those tips coming ? let us know if you find a better / different offer, so we can share it with other readers!

    This first section is a list of discounts on ticket only purchases. Though it has become more common in recent years, Disneyland tickets are still rarely see deep discounts unless you are a resident of Southern California or Northern Mexico. For residents outside that area, the best discounts available tend to be simple advance purchase discounts.

    As we are approaching the end of the year, the information below is for 2007 tickets. These tickets and prices are effective for first use after January 2, 2007. If you are still planning travel for the end of December, make sure you purchase 2006 tickets, which must have a first use of January 2, 2007. As of January 3, 2007, prices for multi-day parkhopper tickets will increase.

    This information is pulled from many sources but much thanks must go to MousePlanet sponsor MouseSavers.com for providing the bulk of the information. If you know of any additional discounts, offers, promotions, or contests that should be listed in this section, drop us a line (link).

    
    
    

    One Day Park Hoper Regularly $83/$73	Southern California 1?Day Park Hopper ? Disney is not currently offering a Southern California 1-Day Park Hopper at the Web site. Southern California AAA offices and Vons Supermarkets may be selling these tickets, but call ahead to confirm. Proof of residency will be required when redeeming them at Disneyland (Vons will happily sell you the ticket voucher regardless of where you are from but you still need to be an appropriate resident to use it. If you do see these available anywhere, email us to let us know.
    Two Day Park Hopper Regularly $122/$102	AOCVCB 2-Day Bonus Ticket ($119/$100) ? The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $3 (adult) and $2 (child) and shipping on all orders is at least $10 (link). So if you are ordering more than 10 days in advance and your discount would be less than $10, you’ll still come out ahead by ordering at the Disneyland Web site.
    Three Day Park Hooper Regularly $179/$149	Advance Purchase 3-day Park Hopper Bonus Ticket ($159/$129) ? A discounted price for advance purchase through the Internet or select dealers. Available at the Disneyland Web site (link) where shipping is included if you order more than 10 days prior to your travel date. Also available from AAA offices in Northern California, Nevada, and Utah (not currently listed at the AAA Web site, you may need to call your local office). Disney Stores (California), Safeway grocery stores (California and Arizona), and certain travel agents may also sell these tickets. It is best to call and confirm before visiting a location, however. “Bonus Tickets” include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday). If purchased from AAA, the tickets come with free parking at the Mickey ∧ Friends parking garage (an $11/day value) Southern California CityPass($235/$189) ? This pass includes a 3-Day Disneyland Resort park ticket (including one early-entry day). It also includes one day admissions to SeaWorld San Diego, Universal Studios Hollywood, and either the San Diego Zoo or San Diego Wild Animal Park. The CityPass expires 14 days after first use at any location. Purchase CityPass through the Disneyland Web site (link) or onsite at the ticket booths of Disneyland Resort or the other theme parks included in the pass. You can also purchase directly from the CityPass Web site (link) though this has a minimum $7.50 shipping charge (no shipping charge from the Disney Web site if purchased more than 10 days in advance). The Southern California City Pass can also be purchased online from Costco at a cost of $209.99/$169.99 (adults/child), 5% surcharge if not a Costco member and shipping fees apply. Booklets may be available for sale in some stores but varies widely. If you want to buy in person it would be best to call ahead and confirm availability. If you do buy at a Costco, you will initially purchase a large plastic container which you must trade for ticket books prior to leaving Costco! AOCVCB 3-Day Bonus Ticket ($155/$126) ? The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $4 (adult) and $3 (child) and shipping on all orders is at least $10. So if you are ordering more than 10 days in advance and your discount would be less than $10, you’ll still come out ahead by ordering at the Disneyland Web site. Tickets include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link). Everybody Plays for the Kid’s Price ($129/$129) ? A special off season promotional ticket direct from Disney. First day of use must be on or before April 26, 2007. If you have the tickets shipped to you (as opposed to Will Call), you’ll also receive a coupon for discounts on Disneyland merchandise. “Bonus Tickets” include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link).
    Four Day Park Hopper Regularly $209/$179	Advance Purchase 4?Day Park Hopper Bonus tickets ($179/$149) ? A discounted price for advance purchase through the Internet or select dealers. Available at the Disneyland Web site (link) where shipping is included if you order more than 10 days prior to your travel date. Also available from AAA offices in Northern California, Nevada, and Utah (not currently listed at the AAA Web site, you may need to call your local office). Disney Stores (California), Safeway grocery stores (California and Arizona), and certain travel agents may also sell these tickets. It is best to call and confirm before visiting a location, however. “Bonus Tickets” include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday). If purchased from AAA, the tickets come with free parking at the Mickey ∧ Friends parking garage (an $11/day value). AOCVCB 4-Day Bonus Ticket ($174/$145) ? The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $5 (adult) and $4 (child) and shipping on all orders is at least $10 Tickets include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link). Everybody Plays for the Kid’s Price ($149/$149) ? A special off season promotional ticket direct from Disney. First day of use must be on or before April 26, 2007. If you have the tickets shipped to you (as opposed to Will Call), you’ll also receive a coupon for discounts on Disneyland merchandise. “Bonus Tickets” include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link).
    Five Day Park Hopper Regularly $229/$199	Advance Purchase 5?Day Park Hopper Bonus tickets ($189/$159) ? A discounted price for advance purchase through the Internet or select dealers. Available at the Disneyland Web site (link) where shipping is included if you order more than 10 days prior to your travel date. Also available from AAA offices in Northern California, Nevada, and Utah (not currently listed at the AAA Web site, you may need to call your local office). Disney Stores (California), Safeway grocery stores (California and Arizona), and certain travel agents may also sell these tickets. It is best to call and confirm before visiting a location, however. “Bonus Tickets” include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday). If purchased from AAA, the tickets come with free parking at the Mickey ∧ Friends parking garage (an $11/day value). AOCVCB 5-Day Bonus Ticket ($183/$154) ? The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $6 (adult) and $5 (child) and shipping on all orders is $10. Everybody Plays for the Kid’s Price ($159/$159) ? A special off season promotional ticket direct from Disney. First day of use must be on or before April 26, 2007. If you have the tickets shipped to you (as opposed to Will Call), you’ll also receive a coupon for discounts on Disneyland merchandise. “Bonus Tickets” include one early admission day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link).

    Travel Packages

    2007 Resort Dream Vacation Package ? This official Disney travel package (link) start at $389/per person for two adults per two-nights. The $389 price is for the Paradise Pier Hotel and goes up for Disneyland Hotel or Grand Californian Hotel. In addition to the hotel room, the package includes appropriate park hopper tickets, one early admission (early admission days are currently Mondays, Tuesday, Thursdays, and Saturdays), a virtual prize for the Virtual Magic Kingdom online game, admission to Mickey’s Toontown Morning Madness (currently available Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays, and Saturdays), a collectible Dream Coin, and Walt Disney Travel Company collectible pin and lanyard, luggage tag, and California Fun Book. Travel using this package must be booked by March 10, 2007, and completed by March 15, 2007.

    2007 Good Neighbor Dream Vacation Package ? This official Disney travel package (link).

    ESPNZone MVP Club ? Membership in the MVP Club does not offer any discounts on food. However, once a member you can make an online reservation for your party up to three days in advance and will get a 25% increase in points purchased when playing games in the Sports Arena (and 40 bonus points at activation). You must register online and your membership card will then be mailed to you within 2-weeks. The card must then be activated at any ESPNZone by the person who signed up for the card and ID will be required (link)

    AAA Restaurant Discounts ? AAA (American Automobile Association) members can receive a 10% discount (excluding alcohol) at Plaza Inn, Wine Country Trattoria Ariel’s Grotto, PCH Grill, and Goofy’s Kitchen.

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    Park Schedule/Blockout Dates

    DL: Disneyland
    DCA: Disney’s California Adventure
    Annual Pass blockout dates:

    • SL ? Southern California Select Annual Pass
    • SC ? Southern California Annual Pass
    • DX ? Deluxe Annual Pass
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    

    12/3	12/4	12/5	12/6	12/7	12/8	12/9
    DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?9p SL	DL: 9a?6p DCA: 10a?9p	DL: 9a-6p DCA: 10a?9p	DL: 9a-8p DCA: 10a?6p	DL: 9a-8p DCA: 10a?6p	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?9p	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC
    12/10	12/11	12/12	12/13	12/14	12/15	12/16
    DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?9p SL	DL: 9a?9p DCA: 10a?6p	DL: 9a?9p DCA: 10a?6p	DL: 9a?9p DCA: 10a?6p	DL: 8a?11p DCA: 10a?8p	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?9p SL	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC
    12/17	12/18	12/19	12/20	12/21	12/22	12/23
    DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC	DL: 8a?Mid DCA: 10a?10p SL/SC/DX

    Visit our Annual Passholders Blockout Dates 2006 page to see more dates. You can see future calendar schedules at Disneyland. As always, specifics are subject to change without notice (or occasionally, without us noticing) so when information conflicts between what is presented here and that presented by Disney, it is best to assume Disney’s information is correct.

    Entertainment schedule: Go directly to the Disneyland Resort schedule for this week at Disneyland.com here.

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    Author

    • 
      Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix

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