Disneyland Resort Update

Update for April 6 – April 12, 2009

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

News and Views

Celebration BBQ opens at Disneyland | Disney Wonder to home port in Los Angeles | Downtown Disney Annual Passport Appreciation Days | Bitter Herbs for Mickey Mouse | MouseAdventure registration extended | This and That

Celebration BBQ opens at Disneyland

[MousePlanet’s Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix was on hand for the opening day of Disneyland’s new Celebration Roundup & Barbecue, and offers a review (and many more photos) of the new restaurant in her MousePlanet Blog (link).]

The Celebration Roundup & Barbecue opened last week at Disneyland. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

The new Celebration Roundup & Barbecue opened at Disneyland today, and I was among a group of media invited to see Disney’s replacement for the much-loved Big Thunder BBQ restaurant that closed in 2001. Big Thunder BBQ has a special place in my heart, (the early plans for the Web site that became MousePlanet were devised over many a Sunday lunch at the former restaurant), and I’ve been eagerly awaiting its replacement. The concept, and the menu, is simple: traditional BBQ food, served family style, in a casual setting with continuous entertainment.

You’ll be greeted upon arrival by a ranch hand, and directed to a counter to check in before your meal. Another trail hand leads you to your table past a character meet-and-greet area where you can snap a photo with Woody, Jessie or one of the other characters that may visit the ranch. As at Goofy’s Kitchen, these photos will be available for purchase after your meal. The photo package is $32.57 (with tax) and comes with one 6″ x 8″ photo and four 4″ x 6″ photos, packaged in a themed cover. You can select different images for each print.

The menu is presented on the back of a washboard. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Eight of the tables are designed with removable bench seats that can accommodate a wheelchair or high chair. The entire area has been repaved, and most of the tables are lit at night by solar-powered lanterns that charge all day. The fire pit that was a centerpiece of the former BBQ location is missing, and additional shade trees fill the seating area.

Your server arrives carrying a tray with plates and utensils, including a bucket filled with serving spoons, tongs and wet naps. Children also receive the Deluxe Celebration Gift Bag, which includes a souvenir sipper, punch-out paper hat, a punch-out memory card game, a magnetic playset, a coloring book and crayons and a Mickey balloon-shaped crazy straw, all packaged in a canvas sack. After setting your table, your server presents your menu, printed on the back of the washboard / tray. This little detail is perfectly suited to the overall theme of the restaurant. There are very few actual decisions to make when ordering, and most groups will need only select a beverage. The menu offers:

• Barbecue Chicken & Ribs
• Cookie’s Cole Slaw
• Corn Cob Wheels
• Ranch Beans
• Cornbread
• Miss Chris’ Cupcake Sensation
• Your Choice of Beverage

Vegetarians can order a BBQ veggie skewer with potatoes, squash, bell pepper, mushrooms and tofu instead of the ribs and chicken, and everything else on the menu is suitable for a vegetarian diet. The meal is served family style, and portioned to the size of your party. While the restaurant does not exactly advertise as an “all-you-care-to-eat” meal, passing servers may ask if your group needs anything else, or may even offer an additional serving of the side dishes. You can request an additional serving of the protein items as well, but don’t expect your server to offer to bring another bucket of ribs.

Chef de Cuisine Sean Layne, formerly of New Orleans Square’s Cafe Orleans, shared some of the “secrets” in the new recipes. The “sweet and sour” cole slaw recipe was chosen from 12 different versions Layne created for the restaurant. The vinegar-based slaw contains a blend of spices, including cayenne, paprika and celery seed. As someone who normally despises Cole slaw I took a small bite only to be polite, and was surprised at how good it was. The BBQ sauce is wheat-gluten free, making it suitable for some diners with celiac disease. (As always please contact the Resort if you have major food allergy or dietary issues, as recipes and menu items change without notice.) The restaurant can also arrange to serve the same Kosher or gluten-free meals available at other table service restaurants in the Resort, but advance notice is recommended.

The meal is served family style, and portioned to the size of your party. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

For me, dessert is the highlight of this meal. Your server will deliver a colorful gift box centerpiece, loaded with an assortment of cupcakes baked into a filled waffle cone. There are four flavors available: red velvet with cream cheese frosting and raspberry filling; vanilla with blueberry frosting and lemon-vanilla filling; strawberry shortcake with strawberry and whipped cream filling; and chocolate mousse with cherry filling. Long-handled spoons make it easier to scoop out the fillings, or you can just bite your way through the cone. Fresh fruit (currently sliced watermelon) can be substituted for the cupcake dessert on request, and Chef Layne said they are working on a gluten-free cupcake.

The Celebration Roundup & Barbecue is not considered to be a “character meal,” but rather offers continuous entertainment featuring Jessie, Woody, Bullseye and friends. The Ranch is said to be owned by “Miss Chris,” and the kitchen is run by “Cookie.” The BBQ sauce is Miss Chris’ special recipe, and is said to be so secret that Cookie must prepare it blindfolded.

Miss Chris and a few musical guests, including guitar-strumming Tex Tumbleweed, make the rounds of the restaurant to greet customers and determine which groups are celebrating an occasion. Tumbleweed has a real talent for making up catchy, rhyming songs that incorporate the names of people in the audience, much to the delight of his subjects—and their parents. The entertainment doesn’t detract from the meal, and that’s a real bonus in my book. I’ve been to some dinner-and-a-show meals where I couldn’t remember the meal because I’d been so distracted by the entertainment. The characters participate in a few short, prepared skits on the main stage at random intervals throughout the meal, and between sets visit with groups at their tables.

Be sure to save room for dessert. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

A problem with placing characters in this venue is that it’s somewhat exposed, and it’s easy for passers-by to see the characters and want to stop for a visit. Additional characters, including Chip & Dale, are now stationed over at Big Thunder Ranch, and cast members can divert non-dining visitors to that location.

The Celebration Roundup & Barbecue was conceived as part of the “What Will You Celebrate” promotion, and provides a much-needed restaurant venue capable of handling large groups. If you’re planning a birthday party, a family reunion or large celebration, this is the restaurant for you. The restaurant can book Priority Seating reservation for parties of up to 28 people; larger groups can book through the Resort Sales department.

Bottom line: is it worth it?

Before I can answer that, I need to make two important disclosures: 1) I did not pay for today’s meal and 2) I’m so happy to have something – anything – open in this venue that I would have given even a Vegan raw food restaurant a chance to win me over. That said, I think, much like the Blue Bayou, that this is an “occasion” restaurant that you should find a reason to visit at least once. The food was quite good (and the dessert is delightful) but it’s hard to justify an almost-$40 lunch more than once unless you have something to celebrate. I’m looking forward to returning with friends, and looking forward to the MousePlanet Anniversary Party on July 18th (stay posted for details), but this will never again be a restaurant that a group of friends gather at week after week “just because.”

The price is $28.99 for adults and $18.99 for kids. This does not include tax or 15% gratuity, (18% for groups of 6 or more) which are added to your total when you pay. Priority Seating “reservations” are available 60 days in advance for groups of up to 28 people by calling the Disney Dine Line (714-781-DINE).

Disney Wonder to home port in Los Angeles

Last week the Seatrade Insider Web site broke the news that that the Disney Wonder home port in Los Angeles starting in January 2011 (link). (Registration is required to read the full article) The site reported “The deployment will come as the line introduces newbuilds in 2011 and 2012. The Port of Los Angeles board will meet this week to consider an agreement for the ship at Berths 90-93 for an initial two-year period, from January 2011 through 2012, with three one-year options that could see Disney operating from Los Angeles until 2016.” According to a report published on the Port of Los Angeles Web site, the proposed permit gives Disney the “Non-exclusive preferential use of approximately 2,800 lineal feet of wharf and associated water area at Berths 93A193B; and non-exclusive secondary use of Berths 90-92.” The report also details a $2M renovation plan for the cruise terminal area, to include “new gangway system; new berth fendering system; exterior painting of the terminal facility; improved interior lighting; improved traffic plan for passenger pick-up and drop-offs, as well as rental car pick-ups; installation of new sound and video monitor system; and general interior improvements to luggage hall area and passenger terminal areas.”

The Disney Magic takes on supplies in the Port of Los Angeles in 2009. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Disney confirmed the story with a press release and press conference with Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. The Port of Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners voted to approve the contract a few days later, during a meeting on April 2, 2009, and some speculate that Disney only made a formal announcement because the proposal had become a matter of public record. No additional details were available from the Disney Cruise Line, including proposed itineraries for the Disney Wonder. The Disney Magic twice visited Los Angeles, offering 7-day Mexican Riviera cruises during the spring and summer of 2005 and 2008.
 

Downtown Disney Annual Passport Appreciation Days: April 19-25, 2009

The stores and restaurants of Downtown Disney will host Annual Passport Appreciation Days April 19-25, 2009. Click here to download a PDF containing a list of all of the specials that will be offered during this promotion. Highlights include:

• 20% off for ALL Annual Passholders at the World of Disney store, Disney Vault 28 and Marceline’s Confectionery.
• Special “Early Shopping Opportunity” with “Doorbusters” on April 19 & 20.
• 20% off lunch or dinner at the House of Blues
• Free all-day parking in Downtown Disney April 20-23 with meal purchase at a participating location.
• Private wine and cheese tasting event at Naples on April 22. ($20 per person)
   

The fine print: Annual Passholder Appreciation Days offers are only available from April 19 –25, 2009 (unless otherwise noted above) at the listed locations. Merchandise offers valid while supplies last. Offers not valid on any previous purchases nor for phone, e-mail or mail orders. Valid Annual Passport must be presented at time of purchase. Separate admission required to enter Disneyland® Resort theme parks. Other restrictions may apply. Information subject to change without notice For additional information visit the special offers page of www.Disneyland.com/AP or www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.
 

Bitter Herbs for Mickey Mouse – Local 11 stages a pre Holy Week protest

Local religious leaders and representatives from Unite HERE Local 11 staged a protest last Thursday to call attention to the union’s ongoing labor dispute with the Disneyland Resort. In a press release, the union said “April 2nd is in the week preceding “Holy Week” in the Christian tradition (the last week of lent, leading up to Easter) and Passover in the Jewish Tradition, the holiday which commemorates the Exodus from Egypt and the liberation of the Israelites from slavery. This action will combine the symbols of bitter herbs from the Sedar and milk and honey from the Exodus to highlight the struggle of the hotel workers.”

A “Dear Worker” presents bitter herbs to union representatives portraying Mickey Mouse, Disney CEO Bob Iger and Minnie Mouse look on. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

The assembled clergy and union representatives led a crowd of about 200 people in an early evening demonstration outside the Paradise Pier Hotel. The demonstrators included about 30 Disney cast members, joined by their children and families, as well as local residents, student protestors from a local college and union employees from other local hotels. After marching in an informational picket outside the hotel, participants gathered in a nearby parking lot to listen to representatives from the assembled clergy. A local pastor addressed the crowd, saying “We are gathered here today because we feel that the experiences of the workers are, in some ways, like the oppressed of Egypt, who endured hard labor building monuments of the Pharaoh.” A local Rabbi explained the symbolism of bitter herbs as a reminder of the time of suffering and oppression in Egypt, and said that the Disney workers were “crying out for release from oppression.”

As a delegation of clergy members and union representatives walked to the Paradise Pier Hotel to deliver a letter and a bundle of bitter herbs to hotel management, another group of protesters staged a brief “drama” in which two “Dear Workers” presented “bitter herbs” to a union worker dressed as Walt Disney CEO Bob Iger, and to costumed representations of and Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Snow White. The demonstrators then walked to the Anaheim Convention Center, where the participants presented “milk and honey” to employee representatives of five local companies, including the Sheraton Anaheim, Anaheim Stadium, Costa Mesa Hilton, Honda Center and Anaheim Convention Center, that the union calls “responsible employers.” At least ten officers from the Anaheim police department were on hand for the protest, and traffic at the intersection of Disneyland Drive and Katella was briefly interrupted to allow the demonstrators to cross the street.

Last week, the Disneyland Resort notified 39 workers at the Yamabuki Japanese restaurant that their location would close on April 11th. Unite HERE Local 11 represents most of the hourly cast members at this location, some of whom may lose their jobs if Disney can not relocate them to another position within the Resort. A representative from Disney stated that the company is working to place all of those workers, and that the closure is not related to the layoffs sweeping both the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. While Thursday’s action was held just yards outside the soon-to-close restaurant, no mention of the pending closure was mentioned during the protest. In a phone interview with MousePlanet, Ada Briceno, Secretary-Treasurer of UNITE HERE Local 11, said that the closure “doesn’t show a lot of regard for the workers.”

Protesters march outside the Paradise Pier Hotel. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

The protest in the latest in a string of nearly 20 demonstrations staged by the union during a yearlong contract dispute with the Disneyland Resort. In December, Disney presented the union with their “last, best and final” offer; a proposal rejected by union leadership in January without a vote of the membership. There are no additional negotiations scheduled between Disney and Unite HERE Local 11 at this time. Regarding Thursday’s protest, the Disneyland Resort issued a statement saying “During these uncertain economic times, we are surprised by union leadership’s tactics and that they continue to protest a fair and comprehensive offer, which includes yearly wage increases and healthcare security. It is unfortunate that the union rejected the offer without allowing its members the opportunity to vote on it.” Disney also stated that Unite HERE Local 11 rejected a request to bring in a federal mediator, and says the union has spent more time planning and holding protests than they’ve spent at the negotiating table. Following  this latest protest, Disneyland Resort spokesperon Suzi Brown said “For the union to compare its situation to the events that actually took place during Holy Week and Passover is inappropriate and offensive. We wish union leadership would focus on the negotiations process rather than publicity stunts.” 

MouseAdventure registration update

Registration for the second of our Spring, 2009 MouseAdventure events is still open (link), and there’s plenty of room for new teams to come play MousePlanet’s signature community event. The Day at the Park event is designed for new MouseAdventure teams as well as returning teams who play “just for fun.” This is a noncompetitive event—teams play only for bragging rights. If you’ve ever wondered what a MouseAdventure event is all about, this is the perfect opportunity to find out! We’ve heard from you that some interested players are still trying to form teams, and so we have extended registration for this event until Wednesday, April 15th.

Registration for our Inaugural Walt Disney World MouseAdventure event on Saturday, November 14th is NOW OPEN. Don’t miss your chance to be one of the first MouseAdventurers to race around Epcot. Visit our MouseAdventure information page for more information about our Fall event (link). And don’t forget to stop by our MousePad discussion boards to ask questions of the MouseAdventure crew and fellow players (link).

This and That

…April 4-18 is expected to be the busiest period of the 2009 Spring Break period, so expect larger than usual crowds over the next two weeks.

…DCA Cast members tell us that the Games of the Boardwalk, originally scheduled to reopen on April 23, may reopen as early as April 7. The Sun Wheel was also scheduled to reopen in the 23rd, but the Disneyland Resort Web site now shows the attraction closed through May 7.

…The Anaheim / Orange County Visitors and Convention Bureau Web site has just updated their very handy walking map of the Disneyland Resort Area (link). The map shows the locations of hotels, restaurants and points of interest within a 20-minute walking radius of the Disneyland Resort theme parks, and details helpful Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) routes, as well as a pedestrian path across the Disneyland Resort and a jogging route. The map is not a full representation of every business and service available in the area – most of the businesses list paid an advertising fee to be included – it will definitely help you navigate your way around the Resort. Thanks to MousePlanet reader BradK for the tip.

…The Orange County Register reported last week that the Anaheim City Council has approved a plan to build a 9-story hotel on the site of the former Zaby’s Motor Lodge, and has “authorized the use of city tax incentives to help ensure the hotel is built at “four-star” standards.” (link).

A new pin depicts the new Tinker Bell float from Disney’s Electrical Parade. Photo © Disney.

…An image of a new pin that will be released on April 26th at the Disneyland Resort depicts “the new Tinker Bell float from Disney’s Electrical Parade found at Disney’s California Adventure,” and should pretty much confirm the rumors that Tink is replacing the Blue Fairy at the head of the parade when it returns to DCA this summer.

…Layoffs continued at the Disneyland Resort last week, including the first reported layoffs of hourly “vacation planners” at the Walt Disney Travel Company. Several news agencies reported last week that a total of 1900 jobs were cut between Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

…We’ve confirmed that the split plate fee at the Blue Bayou has increased to $12, and also that the fee now provides a soup or salad per person. The Blue Bayou menu was also reworked last month, and the restaurant no longer offers appetizers. The popular crab cake appetizer is now available as an entree.

The Once Upon a Time shop has reopened as the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique features a tiny retail section. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Princess gowns and accessories are available for your pre-makeover shopping convenience. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

The cash register display evokes the jeweled box from Sleeping Beauty. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

A stained glass panel of the Fairy Godmother is displayed at the salon entrance. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

…The retail portion of Disneyland’s new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique opened this weekend, and crews are still at work to prepare the salon portion of the Boutique in time for the April 17th opening. The retail section offers a large selection of Disney princess gowns and accessories, and is charmingly decorated by Cinderella’s critter friends. A new stained glass panel featuring the Fairy Godmother decorates a wall at the entrance of the salon.

A new storage book and display stand helps you organize your Kooky Klicker Pens. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

…The merchandise buyers for the Disneyland Resort have hopped on the Kooky Klicker Pens craze, and Limited Edition sets are currently available at most merchandise locations around the park. A new storage book and pen stand are now available to help you organize and display your collection.

…Visitors planning trips to the Disneyland Resort should make a point to check the Current Refurbishment/Attraction Closures section each week for the most recent updates. The Disneyland Resort Web site is currently only publishing refurbishment information about 6 weeks in advance. Be sure to check the most recent Park Update for the latest changes, as MousePlanet does not edit past Park Updates to reflect changes.

Current Refurbishments and Attraction Closures

Disneyland

• Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years – closed through September 25, 2009 to return Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln to the Opera House.
• Peter Pan’s Flight – closes May 4, 2009 for refurbishment.

Disney’s California Adventure

• Sun Wheel – closed through May 7, 2009 for refurbishment and to install the new Mickey face.
• Redwood Creek Challenge Trail – closes April 27, 2009 for refurbishment.
• The Vineyard Room – closed. No announcement has been made about a potential replacement for this restaurant, but an employee publication lists October 4, 2009 as the return date.
• Golden Dreams – closed. This attraction will eventually be replaced with the new Little Mermaid ride.
• Burger Invasion – closed. No announcement has been made about a potential replacement for this former McDonald’s location, but an employee publication lists May 12, 2011 as the return date.
• Games of the Boardwalk – closed to install a new facade and new Disney-themed games. No reopening date has been announced, but an employee publication lists April 23, 2009 as the return date. Cast members tell us that the new games may reopen as early as April 7.
• King Triton’s Carousel – closed March 9 – May 21, 2009 for refurbishment.
• Paradise Pier Lagoon – currently drained while workers complete several construction projects in the area. The Lagoon is scheduled to be refilled after Labor Day 2009.
• Golden State Amphitheater – area closed for construction of new viewing area for Disney’s World of Color water show. The area is scheduled to reopen December 18, 2009.
• The Lucky Fortune Cookery – This restaurant area, largely unused for the past several years except during special events, is closed through June 18, 2009 for renovation into a new counter-service restaurant.

Note: Refurbishment schedules are estimates only. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, call Disneyland at 714-781-7290.

Park Events

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

Spring

• Spring Break – April 4-18, 2009. The Disneyland Resort is expecting the largest Spring Break crowds during this two-week period, though schools observe Spring Break and off-track periods throughout March and April.
• Disney’s California Food and Wine Festival – Daily, April 24 to June 7, 2009. A listing of many of the signature and complimentary events is now available on the event Web site (link). Online registration is now open for these Signature Events.
• MouseAdventure – Sunday, April 26 (competitive event) and Sunday, May 10 (noncompetitive event) at the Disneyland Resort (link). The April 26 MouseAdventure event is filled to capacity, however there are still some space available for the May 10 MouseAdventure: Day at the Park. Be sure to register for the MouseAdventure Newsletter to receive future announcements (link).
• Bats Day in the Fun Park (unofficial event) – Sunday May 3, 2009 (link).
• 2009 Grad Nite events – Thursdays, May 14, May 21, May 28 and June 4; Wednesday, June 10; Thursdays, June 11 and June 18.

Summer

• Summer Pin Festival Kick-Off Event – Saturday, June 20, 2009 (link). The event is now sold out (link).
• Summer Pin Festival – Daily, June 19 to August 9, 2009 (link).
• NFFC 25th Anniversary Disneyana Convention – July 14-18, 2009.
• MousePlanet.com “birthday” party at the Celebration BBQ at Big Thunder Ranch – Saturday, July 18, 2009. Stay posted for additional information as it becomes available.
• NFFC All Disneyana Show and Sale – Sunday July 19, 2009
• Pinbassador Inspirations Pin Release & Signing – Saturday, August 8, 2009 (link).
• SHAG “Spirited” Haunted Mansion 40th Anniversary Cocktail Reception – Saturday, August 8, 2009. Tickets are now on sale (link).
• SHAG Haunted Mansion 40th Anniversary Product Release & Signing – Sunday, August 9, 2009 (link).

Fall

• 4th Annual Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend – September 4-6, 2009. Registration is now open (link).
• Haunted Mansion 40th Anniversary Merchandise Event – Wednesday, September 9, 2009. (link). All four event packages are now sold out.
• D23 Expo – September 10 – 13, 2009 in Anaheim, California (link).
• UEA / “Utah Escapes to Anaheim” – October 1-2, 2009. (Link). Expect unusually large attendance levels as Utah students and families take advantage of an education convention.
• 12th annual Gays Days at the Disneyland Resort (unofficial event) – October 2-4, 2009. Event attendance will be higher at Disneyland on Saturday, DCA on Sunday (link).
• CHOC/Disneyland Resort Walk in the Park – Sunday, October 19, 2009. Registration will open in the summer (link). Team MousePlanet will once again participate in this event, and additional details will be announced as they are available.

Current Discounts & Promotions

Several current promotions offer discounted admission to the Disneyland Resort. For your convenience, 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 that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or 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 rarely offered at 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.

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, One Park Regularly $69/$59 One Day Park Hopper Regularly $94/$84	Southern California 1-Day Park Hopper – Disney is not currently offering a discounted Southern California 1-Day Park Hopper at the Web site. 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, e-mail us to let us know.)
Two Day Park Hopper Regularly $143/$123	2009 “Southern California 2Fer Ticket” ($69 / $59) – Visitors who live in Southern California and Baja California, Mexico can now purchase the 2009 “Southern California 2Fer Ticket.” This special ticket offers admission to either Disneyland or Disney’s California on one day and then to the other park on a second day for the price of a one-day, one-park ticket ($69 for adults and $59 for children ages 3 to 9). The 2009 promotion also features a return of the “Southern California 2-Day Park Hopper Ticket” for $94 for adults / $84 for ages 3-10. This is $25 more than the 2Fer ticket and allows you to visit both Disneyland and DCA on the same day. The offers includes much the same fine print as previous promotions: Tickets valid for Southern California residents within Zip codes 90000-93599 and Northern Baja California residents within Zip codes 21000-22999. Proof of residency required. The 2Fer ticket is valid for one day at Disneyland park and another day at Disney’s California Adventure park , but not for both parks on the same day. The 2-Day Park Hopper Ticket may be used at both parks on the same day. Tickets expire 30 days from first visit. First visit must occur between January 6, 2009 and June 3, 2009. [Note: This is a full two months longer than the 2008 promotion, and does not exclude the Spring Break period as such offers usually do.] Each use constitutes one full day of use. Limit 8 tickets per person, per day with valid ID. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use. Offer may not be combined with other discounts or promotions. [Except for the “What Will You Celebrate?” birthday admission offer as explained below.] Subject to restrictions and change without notice. You can purchase these tickets starting January 6, 2009 at the Disneyland Resort ticket booths, as well as Disneyland Resort Hotels and Disneyland.com. Vons stores, The Disney Stores and the Disney Desks at places like South Coast Plaza and The Grove may also carry the tickets, but we have not been able to confirm this yet. [Note: in past years, it has taken quite some time for non-Disney outlets to receive the tickets, so don’t be surprised if your local Vons store or mall Disney Desk doesn’t have them yet.] The 2009 offer is slightly complicated by the “What Will You Celebrate?” promotion, and special options are available to eligible residents with birthdays between January 6 and June 3. If you live within the residency area and your birthday is on or between January 6 and June 3, you will receive a “2Fer Birthday Ticket” instead of a one-day, one-park ticket. The 2Fer terms and conditions apply to this ticket. You must use the first day of your 2Fer on your birthday. You can upgrade the 2Fer Birthday Ticket to the Southern California 2-Day Park Hopper Ticket by paying $25. The 2Fer ticket is considered valid admission media for the purposes of the “What Will You Celebrate?” offer, so people who already have a 2Fer can receive one of the three Alternate Gifts. AOCVCB 2-Day Park Hopper Ticket ($141/$121) – The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $2 off the box-office price for both adults and children. You can now print these tickets at home, though a $1 per-ticket convenience fee applies. If the $1 per ticket net savings isn’t enough of an incentive to pre-purchase your tickets, think of all the time you’ll save by not having to stand in line at the Disneyland Resort ticket booths (link).
Three Day Park Hopper Regularly $199/$169	Advance Purchase 3-day Park Hopper Bonus Ticket ($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 supermarkets (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) Advance Purchase 3-day Park Hopper Bonus Ticket ($179/$149) – available through the Disneyland Web site (link). You can print these tickets at home, though the tickets from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau Web site (see below) are slightly less expensive. AOCVCB 3-Day Bonus Ticket ($174/$144) – The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $5 off the advance purchase price for both adults and children. You can now print these tickets at home, though a $1 per-ticket convenience fee applies. If the $4 per ticket net savings isn’t enough of an incentive to pre-purchase your tickets, think of all the time you’ll save by not having to stand in line at the Disneyland Resort ticket booths. Tickets include one early admission day (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link). Advance Purchase 2009 Everyone Plays for the Kids’ Price! 3-Day Park Hopper Ticket ($149) – This promotion is valid January 6 through April 30, 2009, and includes one one Magic Morning admission. Currently available for purchase through the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau Web site (link). Disney’s Armed Forces Salute 3-Day Park Hopper Ticket (Free/$94) – Through June 12, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military can receive one complimentary three-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” Park Hopper ticket valid for admission to both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks. During the offer period, active or retired US military personnel also may make a one-time purchase of an adult or child three-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion” Park Hopper ticket for up to five family members (including spouse) or friends for the price of an adult 1-Day Park Hopper ticket. Disneyland Resort hotels are also offering special room rates for active or retired military personnel. For example, at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, active or retired members of the military and their families may find hotel rooms starting at $119 per night during value season, with great savings during other times of the offer period. This offer is available through June 12, 2009, and the number of rooms available at these special rates is limited. For information regarding “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” at the Disneyland Resort, or to make reservations, military personnel may call 714/956-6424. Full details of the offer, including eligibility guidelines and other restrictions, are posted on our MousePad discussion board (link).
Four Day Park Hopper Regularly $224/$194	Advance Purchase 4-Day Park Hopper Bonus tickets ($194/$164) – 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 supermarkets (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 (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday). If purchased from AAA, the tickets come with free parking at the Mickey & Friends parking garage (an $11/day value). Advance Purchase 4-day Park Hopper Bonus Ticket ($194/$164) – available through the Disneyland Web site (link). You can print these tickets at home, though the tickets from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau Web site (see below) are slightly less expensive. AOCVCB 4-Day Bonus Ticket ($189/$159) – The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $5 off the advance purchase price for both adults and children. You can now print these tickets at home, though a $1 per-ticket convenience fee applies. If the $4 per ticket net savings isn’t enough of an incentive to pre-purchase your tickets, think of all the time you’ll save by not having to stand in line at the Disneyland Resort ticket booths. Tickets include one early admission day (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link). Advance Purchase 2009 Everyone Plays for the Kids’ Price! 4-Day Park Hopper Ticket ($154) – This promotion is valid January 6 through April 30, 2009, and includes one one Magic Morning admission. Currently available for purchase through the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau Web site (link). Costco Disneyland Resort Play 4 Days Exchange Certificate – Available through the Costco Web site (link), this $139 ticket (for ages 3 through adult) is good for four one-day admissions to Disneyland or Disney’s California Adventure. The tickets are non-transferable—the same person must use all four admissions. The ticket expires once the four admissions are used, or on July 31, 2009, whichever comes first. This is not a park-hopper pass, although you could probably use one admission per day at each park, in effect using the four admissions as a two-day park-hopper. The tickets are available only to Costco members who are residents of Southern California. Tickets must be purchased at Costco, with a limit of eight tickets per member per day. It is important to note that the item you purchase at Costco is an “Exchange Certificate,” not a valid park passport. Members must exchange the certificate at the Disneyland Resort Ticket booth to receive the Play 4 Days ticket. Proof of California residency in zip codes 90000 through 93599 is required to exchange the certificate for a valid ticket.
Five Day Park Hopper Regularly $244/$214	Advance Purchase 5-Day Park Hopper Bonus tickets ($204/$174) – 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 supermarkets (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 (Sunday, 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 ($199/$169) – The discount (from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau) is $5 off the advance purchase price for both adults and children. You can now print these tickets at home, though a $1 per-ticket convenience fee applies. If the $4 per ticket net savings isn’t enough of an incentive to pre-purchase your tickets, think of all the time you’ll save by not having to stand in line at the Disneyland Resort ticket booths. Tickets include one early admission day (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) (link). Advance Purchase 2009 Everyone Plays for the Kids’ Price! 5-Day Park Hopper Ticket ($164) – This promotion is valid January 6 through April 30, 2009, and includes one one Magic Morning admission. Currently available for purchase through the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau Web site (link). Advance Purchase 5-Day Park Hopper Bonus Ticket for the Price of 3 Days ($179/$149) – Disneyland’s new Summer promotion offers two extra days of park admisison when you purchase a 3-Day or longer Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Ticket. These tickets must be purchased before your trip, either through the Disneyland Web site or as part of your vacation package. You can NOT purchase this promotional ticket from the Disneyland Resort ticket booths, so plan ahead! The Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus tickets expire 13 days after first day of use or 10/13/09, whichever occurs first, and each day of use constitutes one full day of use.
Six Day Park Hopper Regularly $249/$219	Advance Purchase 6-Day Park Hopper Bonus tickets ($209/$179) – 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 supermarkets (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 (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday). If purchased from AAA, the tickets come with free parking at the Mickey & Friends parking garage (an $11/day value). Advance Purchase 2009 Everyone Plays for the Kids’ Price! 6-Day Park Hopper Ticket ($179) – This promotion is valid January 6 through April 30, 2009, and includes one one Magic Morning admission. Currently available for purchase through the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau Web site (link). Advance Purchase 6-Day Park Hopper Bonus Ticket for the Price of 4 Days ($194/$164) – Disneyland’s new Summer promotion offers two extra days of park admisison when you purchase a 3-Day or longer Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Ticket. These tickets must be purchased before your trip, either through the Disneyland Web site or as part of your vacation package. You can NOT purchase this promotional ticket from the Disneyland Resort ticket booths, so plan ahead! The Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus tickets expire 13 days after first day of use or 10/13/09, whichever occurs first, and each day of use constitutes one full day of use.
Deluxe Annual Passport Regulary $269	Costco $50 bonus gift card offer – Costco members can receive a $50 Disneyland gift card when they purchase a Deluxe Disneyland Resort annual passport for $269 at a participating Costco location. The offer should be available at all Southern California Costco stores that currently sell Disneyland admission, but the vouchers may not have arrived in all locations yet. [A list of the 37 Costco locations within 50 miles of the Disneyland Resort is available on our MousePad discussion board (link), and we have noted which locations are confirmed to have these tickets available. If you are a Costco member and live near one of the stores that is not confirmed, please check the next time you’re there and then let us know so we can update the list.] There are no residency restrictions on this ticket, and it can be upgraded to a Deluxe with parking or Premium passport. Better still, the $50 gift card can be applied towards the cost of the upgrades, which nearly pays for the $59 parking option or drops the net cost of a Premium Annual Passport to just $339.
2009 Southern California CityPass $259/$219	2009 Southern California CityPass ($259/$219) – This pass includes a 3-Day Disneyland Resort park ticket (including one early-entry day), and single-day admission to either San Diego Zoo or San Diego Wild Animal Park, as well as SeaWorld San Diego and Universal Studios Hollywood. 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). You can also purchase the Southern California City Pass online from Costco at a cost of $227/$192 (link), 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 Costco, you will initially purchase a large plastic container that you must trade for ticket books prior to leaving Costco!

Hotel / Travel Packages

Stay 3, Get 2 Free – Disneyland’s new Summer promotion offers 5 nights at a Disneyland Resort or Good Neighbor Hotel and 5 days of theme park admission for the price of three. The promotion is valid for arrivals between April 1st – September 26th, 2009, though the discounts are not available at the Good Neighbor Hotels until May 1st. All travel must be booked by August 11, 2009 to receive this offer.

Costco Travel Packages – Many different travel packages including visits to Disneyland and Disneyland hotels are available through Costco.com. When purchasing a Costco Disneyland travel package, extras that will be included are: Mickey’s Toontown Madness admission (currently available Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays, and Saturdays), a character breakfast collectible pin and lanyard, and a Costco luggage tag per person, plus a $20 Disneyland Resort gift card per package.

Disney’s Resort Magic and Good Neighbor Magic Packages – Package includes accomodations one of the three resort hotels or at one of 40 Good Neighbor hotels; Souvenir Park Hopper ticket with voucher for admission to Mickey’s Toontown Morning Madness, plus one Magic Morning (early entry) for three-day or longer Park Hoppers; preferred seating at four DCA attractions (Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, Muppet*Vision 3D, It’s Tough to be a Bug!, Golden Dreams); Preferred Showing of Turtle Talk with Crush (Priority Viewing at the first Turtle Talk with Crush show of the day, on any one day – one voucher per Guest); Disney Dream coin keepsake (one per package), luggage tag and lanyard with pin; a Downtown Disney Fun Card; and a “Character Call” from Mickey, Minnie, Goofy or Crush. Contact Disney Travel or your favorite travel agent.

Alaska Airlines “Kids Fly Free to the Disneyland Resort” promotion – Valid for travel between January 7 and June 17, 2009 when you also book your hotel through the airline. Significant restrictions apply to the promotion, including blockout dates. This offer can be a good deal for some families, but make sure that you compare the total quoted package price against the same elements if purchased a la carte. You may be able to take advantage of other published airfare specials and hotel discounts to create a less expensive vacation package. Unfortunately the Alaska Airlines Web site can be sluggish, making comparison shopping time consuming, but you should definitely do your homework before you buy.

Other Discounts

Disney Visa Free-Stroller Rental – If you have a Disney Visa card you can rent up to two strollers for free at either Disneyland or Disney’s California Adventure. This offer is valid only at the Main Gate rental locations at each park.

Rainforest Cafe Safari Club – Membership in the Rainforest Cafe gets you a 10% discount on entrees for up to four people. It also gets you priority seating if available, which can make a huge difference on busy days. Additionally, after signing up, your membership card will be mailed to you and be accompanied by a $10 award good for your next visit to a Rainforest Cafe. So if you know you will be eating there while at Disneyland and have a Rainforest Cafe local to you, it may make sense to prejoin the Safari Club so that you can use the award during your trip. See the Rainforest Cafe Web site for details (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 two 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.

Downtown Disney Patina Restuarant Discounts – Three Downtown Disney restaurants operated by the Patina Group are currently offering lunch and/or dinner specials. Check at the restaurant for menu and price details.

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

Disneyland Resort Special Events:

• MM – Magic Morning at Disneyland
• TT – Toontown Morning Madness at Disneyland
• Grad Nite
• MTT – Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party at DCA

Visit our Annual Passholders Blockout Dates 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.

Visit the Park Hours section of our Disneyland Park guide for additional details about Magic Morning and Toontown Morning Madness, including available attractions.

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