Disneyland Resort Update

Update for June 15 – 21, 2009

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

News and Views

Summer Nightastic! begins at the Disneyland Resort | Fantasmic! dragon not quite ready for prime time | Honda Promotion at the Disneyland Resort | Local 11 and Disney head back to the bargaining table | Studio Disney 365 to open in Disneyland Downtown Disney | This and That

Summer Nightastic! begins at the Disneyland Resort

Disneyland kicked off the summer season this weekend with the Summer Nightastic! promotion, featuring the relaunch of Disney’s Electrical Parade and Fantasmic!, the debut of the all-new Magical Fireworks show and the TLT Dance Club and Pixie Hollow Enchantment overlays. The Summer Nightastic! promotion also plays up the glow merchandise available throughout the Resort, and carts of light-up souvenirs–including new glowing Mickey Mouse balloons–are deployed around the theme parks once dusk falls. Summer Nightastic! continues through Sunday, Aug. 23.

Magical

Broadway star and former Disneyland performer Eden Espinosa provided the lead vocals for the show’s new soundtrack, and was on hand for the public premiere on Thursday night. The opening ceremony also featured appearances by Disney Channel stars Selina Gomez and Jennifer Stone.

“Magical” features new lighting effects projected on Sleeping Beauty Castle. Photo © Disney.

Dumbo takes flight over Sleeping Beauty Castle. Photo © Disney.

Several dress rehearsals of Disneyland’s new fireworks show were presented in the week before Summer Nightastic! officially debuted, and some say that the fireworks have changed a bit since the first rehearsal. You can see our videos from the first rehearsal at MousePlanet TV, and compare them to the premiere shown below. Magical is presented nightly at 9:25 p.m.

View Dumbo’s Flight over Disneyland

Disney’s Electrical Parade

No public previews were offered for the renovated Disney’s Electrical Parade, and fans of the classic Disney parade have been eagerly awaiting the debut of the new Tinker Bell float, and the return of the Snow White Mine Scene and Pinocchio Pleasure Island units to the parade. With Tinker Bell leading the parade, all of the parade units have been enhanced with a swirl of “pixie dust.” The Alice in Wonderland float also features a new Cheshire Cat figure, and Captain Hook’s ship a bright new skull.

A new Tinker Bell float leads Disney’s Electrical Parade in a hot air balloon made of autumn leaves. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Tinker Bell spreads pixie dust over the floats of Disney’s Electrical Parade. Photo © Disney.

The logo drum float sparkles with a sprinkling of pixie dust. Photo © Disney.

The parade is presented most nights at 8:45 p.m. Disney’s Electrical Parade begins at the parade gates near the Orange Stinger and ends in the Sunshine Plaza near the park’s main entrance, so if you’re hoping to watch the parade in DCA and make it to Disneyland in time for the Magical fireworks, you’ll need to catch the parade at the beginning and move quickly to get into Disneyland. Better yet, just watch the two shows on different nights to fully enjoy both.

A grinning Cheshire Cat rides on the front of the Alice in Wonderland float. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Dopey drives the mine train down the parade route. Photo © Disney.

The Mine Scene unit has returned to Disney’s Electrical Parade. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Watch the new-and-improved Disney’s Electrical Parade (presented here, and on MousePlanet.tv).

TLT Dance Club

Each night this summer, Tomorrowland Terrace will transform into the TLT Dance Club, with live DJs from local radio stations playing music on weeknights and live bands performing on weekends. The Club is geared towards teens and young adults, and offers lots of opportunities for the audience to interact with the entertainers. Using cell phones, dancers can text messages to their friends that will appear on large screens around the stage. The audience can also vote for their favorite songs, and send song suggestions to the DJ via text message. During DJ nights, dance hosts entertain from the main stage, and frequent trivia contests give dancers the opportunity to win prizes including glow necklaces and bottles of Coca-Cola.

A KISS-FM DJ controls the music at the opening night of the TLT Dance Club. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Here is the tentative schedule of DJs and bands for the summer:

June 12 and 13 – Suburban Legends
June 15 to 18 – 102.7 KIIS-FM
June 19 to 20 – Reunion
June 22 to 25 – Star 94.1 San Diego
June 26 and 27 – Tomasina
June 29 to July 2 – Latino and La Raza
July 3 and 4 – Suburban Legends
July 6 to 9 – 104.3 MYfm
July 10 and 11 – The Bolts
July 13 to 16 – POWER 106
July 17 and 18 – Tomasina
July 20 to 23 – Super Estrella
July 24 and 25 – Reunion
July 26 – Instant Replay
July 27 to 30 – 102.7 KIIS-FM
Aug. 3 to 6 – Channel 933 San Diego
Aug. 10 to 13 – 104.3 MYfm
Aug. 14 and 15 – Reunion
Aug. 17 to 20 – POWER 106
Aug. 21 and 22 – Tomasina

Disney Channel star Mitchel Musso opened the TLT Dance Club with a live concert. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Disney Channel star Mitchel Musso opened the Club with a live concert, drawing a large crowd of fans for the performance. We’ve included a short video from the concert below; visit MousePlanet TV to see the entire performance.

Fantasmic! dragon not quite ready for prime time

The launch of Summer Nightastic was not without challenges, the most serious being last-minute mechanical problems that delayed the debut of the new and improved Fantasmic! dragon. Rumors began circulating online last week with some claiming that the head of the new dragon had broken off during a dress rehearsal early Monday morning. On Tuesday, a Disneyland spokesperson has confirmed that there were mechanical issues with the 40-foot tall, fire-breathing dragon, but denied that the head of the 5-ton figure fell off. Disney says that the dragon will debut as soon as the mechanical issues are resolved, but this is a real disappointment for Fantasmic! fans. Worse, the new dragon plays a major role in the Resort’s Summer Nightastic! marketing campaign, appearing on the banners that were installed throughout the Resort last week, and on billboards along major Southern California freeways.

The new Fantasmic! dragon features prominently in the Summer Nightastic! marketing campaign, but isn’t quite ready to join the show. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Even without the new dragon, the show opened to the public on Friday with several other major enhancements, including personal watercraft-propelled puppets of Flotsam and Jetsam, and an all-new Crocodile figure. The new figures are much-needed enhancements to the 17-year-old show. The show also sports new high-definition video projected on the three giant mist screens. Fantasmic is presented most nights at 9:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The show will not be presented on Thursday, June 18 due to the final Grad Nite of the year.

A new Tic Toc Crocodile follows Captain Hook’s ship. Photo © Disney.

Flotsam and Jetsam slither around the Rivers of America. Photo © Disney.

With the return of Fantasmic! comes the return of the Premium Viewing opportunity. Tickets are $59 per person, and include reserved seating, a selection of beverages including soft drinks, coffee, hot chocolate and water, and a dessert box filled with cheese, crackers, fruit and bite-size pastries. Call (714) 781-4400, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., seven days a week to reserve your seat.

Watch the new-and-improved Fantasmic at MousePlanet’s You Tube channel (shown here and also available at MousePlanet TV).

Honda Promotion at the Disneyland Resort

The 2009 Honda Insight Promotion began at the Disneyland Resort last Friday, part of Honda’s 50th anniversary celebration. There are two components to this contest—an online “Honda INSiGHT “Celebrate the Hybrid for Everyone” Sweepstakes,” and an on-property contest with same-day prizes.

Enter at the Honda display to win prizes including souvenirs, meal vouchers, premium viewing opportunities and gift cards. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

To enter the on-property contest, visit the Honda display at the Disneyland Resort Main Entrance Plaza between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. through July 31, 2009 and fill out an entry form. You must be 18 years old, a legal resident of the 50 states of the United States or the District of Columbia, and a licensed driver in your state of residence. (These are the same eligibility requirements for the online version). You must also have a cell phone with you, and photo ID. Winners will be drawn around 3:30pm at the Honda display, but you do not need to be present to win. Winners will be notified by text message or cell phone call and prizes must be claimed at the display by 6pm each day. You can also check back at the display anytime before 6pm to see if you have won. 50 prizes will be awarded each day, including souvenirs, meal vouchers, premium viewing opportunities and gift cards. All valid entries collected throughout the contest will also be included in a drawing for one 2010 Honda Insight, with the winner to be notified in August.

To register for the online sweepstakes, visit www.disney.com/celebratethehybrid and submit your entry. The Grand Prize is a 2010 Honda Insight, and a Disneyland Resort vacation package for up to four people. You can enter online once a day for 50 days.

Local 11 and Disney head back to the bargaining table

Representatives from Disney and Unite HERE Local 11 met last week to continue negotiations on a contract that covers food service, restaurant and bell services workers at the three Disneyland Resort hotels. These cast members have been working without a contract since the previous agreement expired in early 2008, and the negotiations have been punctuated by numerous protests and actions by the union.

In December 2008, Disney presented the union with a “last, best and final” offer, a proposal that union leaders rejected in January without a vote by the membership. The two sides had not met for negotiations so far this year. The union said that Disney requested last week’s negotiation session after the union declined a second time to accept the offer, and that they expected Disney’s new offer would include additional “takeaways.” At the meeting, Disney presented the union with a “modified last, best and final” offer, which includes wage increases for non-tipped employees; an additional wage increase for room attendants, housekeeping housemen, and custodial CMs; additional pay for trainers, working leads and third-shift CMS; and a bonus of $1,000 per full time employee if the contract is ratified by June 30, 2009.

In a written statement, Disneyland Resort spokesperson Suzi Brown said “Local 11 Cast Members have been through enough and deserve greater financial security, particularly during these tough economic times. We have been trying to settle a contract with union leadership for 18 months and have put another equitable offer on the table that includes yearly wage increases, quality health care coverage and other benefits. In addition, regular full-time Cast Members will receive an immediate bonus of $1,000 as well as paid sick leave benefits (which were recently eliminated by the union), based on ratification by June 30, 2009. We have asked the union leadership to give their members the chance to vote on this fair and comprehensive offer.”

Representatives from Unite HERE Local 11 have not yet commented on Disney’s modified offer.

The sticking point continues to be health insurance, and neither side seems willing to budge on the issue. Under the expired contract, covered employees that work a minimum of 70 hours a month are eligible for free health care for their entire family. Disney, along with employers from more than 20 Orange County work sites organized by Local 11, pay for this coverage by contributing to a union trust fund that administers the health insurance benefit. Disney pays $2.55 per employee, per hour to the trust fund, and has continued to make these payments since the expiration of the former contract. Unite HERE Local 11 Secretary-Treasurer Ada Briceno says that the Disney’s contributions account for 43% of the trust fund.

Disney proposes to transfer cast members to the same Disney Signature health plan offered to most other employees at the Disneyland Resort, and would require workers to pay a “reasonable” weekly premium. Briceno argues that Disney is not only trying to save money by passing the costs of the health insurance onto the employees, but claims that the company is relying on a significant number of employees to opt out of the Disney Signature health plan because they can not afford the premiums, creating additional savings for the company.

There is probably another reason the union is so reluctant to let the 1,400 Disney employees leave the union health plan. Disney cast members represent the single largest block of employees in the union, and group health insurance rates are greatly impacted by the number of employees covered under the contract. If Disney is successful in moving almost half of Local 11 workers into Disney’s private plan, the union’s health care premiums are likely to jump substantially the next time they negotiate coverage with their health plan provider. This would in turn force other employers that participate in the union trust fund to make an even higher employee hour contribution, or pass the increased costs to their workers, effectively ending the standard of free health insurance that the union is trying so hard to maintain. Briceno would not speculate on what would happen if the Disney employees leave the union plan, but admits “it is important for us to keep them [Disney], that’s why we’re fighting, because it’s not just the Disney workers that are affected, they’re bringing everyone down with them. Even though the Hilton has paid their fair share, the Sheraton is paying their fair share… they’re riding on everyone else’s back. We’re going to hold out.”

Sick pay is another point of contention. Disney is the only employer for whom Unite HERE Local 11 administers both health insurance and sick leave, and the benefit is paid out of the same trust fund at a cost the union puts at about $74,000 per month. The union maintains that Disney’s contribution to the trust fund is not sufficient, and that the union is losing $1.35 per employee hour to provide benefits to the Disney CMs. Briceno says that other local employers, including the Anaheim Hilton and Towers and the Sheraton Park Hotel, pay as much as $4.21 per employee hour for health care alone, and that the union’s trust fund is rapidly being depleted because Disney is not “up to par” with other employers. Citing dwindling trust fund reserves, Unite HERE Local 11 notified Disney cast members last month that the union was temporarily suspending the sick pay benefit, prompting over 600 union workers to cash out their sick pay before the deadline. Briceno said “we had no choice but to cancel it, because we can’t afford it. I either send you a letter today, cutting your sick pay, or later on I’ll have to send you a letter telling you that you no longer have health care.”

Briceno believes that Disney managers encouraged and helped employees to file claims, and claims that most of the forms submitted were either faxed from Disney offices or were driven to the health benefit office by Disney’s management team, saying “it’s to their benefit for us to fail.” She also accuses Disney of refusing to help the union properly administer the sick pay benefit, and says their failure unnecessarily costs the trust fund thousands of dollars per month. According to the terms of the contract, CMs are eligible for the actual amount of time missed when they call out sick or leave work early, and can claim up to three days without presenting a doctor’s note. Briceno says that most CMs file for 8 hours per sick day, when most are actually scheduled shorter shifts. She claims that Disney refuses to verify how long or even if the employee was scheduled, or whether the employee was actually out sick, leaving the union no choice but to pay for claims that may not be valid. Briceno says that the last-minute claims before the deadline totaled $175,000, some of the payments going to “people who weren’t even sick, because Disney will not verify it.”

Some union members complained that union representatives tried to deter them from submitting their claims, and Briceno admitted that “We had conversations with people. We told them, you can either take the 24 hours that you weren’t sick for, or you can put that money towards continuing everybody’s health care.” Under Disney’s proposal, eligible cast members will be covered by Disney’s sick benefit coverage upon ratification of the contract, but the contract is contingent on the workers moving to the Disney health plan.

For the union, the pressure to reach an agreement increases as the balance of the trust fund reserves shrink. Briceno says that Disney had previously agreed to a higher employee hour contribution for 2008 and 2009, but won’t make a retroactive payment to the trust fund until a contract is signed. She believes this is part of a strategy to push the union to a financial breaking point. “Every three months, they request the status of our trust fund, because they want to drain it, because they want to break it, because they want to force us to agree to their proposal. They’re dying for this to break. They’ve done everything possible to make sure that we break, because if we break, we have no choice but to accept their proposal.”

Speaking before the meeting, Briceno said that the union is prepared to stage “huge actions” against Disney if the company will not drop the proposal to remove the covered workers from the union health care plan. Earlier this year, 81% of Local 11 union members voted to create a strike fund, and Briceno will not rule out the possibility of a strike, saying the union is “at a really good place here at the start of the summer to gain attention for our issues.” Briceno also said “we don’t want to go to strike, but we’re also not going to bring down our standards.”

Disney 365 to open in Disneyland Downtown Disney

The new Studio Disney 365 under construction at Downtown Disney, in the space formerly occupied by Club Libby Lu. Studio Disney 365 offers makeovers and clothing aimed at the ‘tween and teen crowd, those who are too old for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, but not quite ready for Sephora. The location will open on Friday, June 26, and reservations available now by calling (714) 781-STYLE (7895). The new boutique, nicknamed “SD365,” will offer makeover and wardrobe package that will transform young Guests into the “stars of tomorrow.”

Makeover Packages include:

• Rock Star – smoky eyes, slicked back or spiked hair, colored gel tips, downloadable image JPEG, and customized lanyard with photo for $18.95
• From the Top – a unique hairstyle, cosmetic makeover, deluxe makeup case, downloadable image JPEG, and customized lanyard with photo for $29.95.
• Color Cue – Guest’s choice of colored streaks, a unique twisted pony design, cosmetic makeover, deluxe makeup case, downloadable image JPEG, and customized lanyard with photo for $39.95.
• That’s a Wrap – five front braids and high pony twists, Guest’s choice of faux hair (tousled or pony), lace stretch headband (black or pink), cosmetic makeover, deluxe makeup case, downloadable image JPEG, and customized lanyard with photo for $49.95.
• Spotlight – two French braids wrapped to each side, Guest’s choice of faux hair pony tail, choice of colored flower hair accessory, cosmetic makeover, deluxe makeup case, downloadable image JPEG, and customized lanyard with photo for $49.95.
• Secret Star – Hannah Montana wig with sequined headband, rocker headset, themed face gem, cosmetic makeover, deluxe makeup cast, downloadable image JPEG, and customized lanyard with photo for $59.95.

Wardrobe Packages – Get ready for action as you take center stage dressed from head to toe in today’s fashions. Purchase a wardrobe package and save up to $10* (Wardrobe packages start at $81, plus tax). Packages include:

• Studio Rocker – tutu, trend graphic T-shirt, fingerless gloves, and ankle tights
• Trend Setter – fedora, trend graphic T-shirt, sunglasses, and scarf
• Scene Stealer – gold tank top, Hannah Montana inspired gold-lamé jacket, black and purple tutu, black tights, and light-up drum sticks

This and That

…MousePlanet’s Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix had the opportunity to interview Broadway star Eden Espinosa and Disneyland Senior Show Director John Addis about the new Magical fireworks show. We asked MousePlanet readers who follow us on Twitter to submit their questions for the singer—watch the interview to hear her answers.

…Reminder! Come celebrate the 9th Anniversary of MousePlanet.com with lunch at the Big Thunder Ranch Celebration Roundup & Barbecue on Saturday, July 18 at Disneyland. We filled the first block of seats we reserved, but will accept additional reservations as long as space is available. E-mail Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix to reserve your space today (link). For those who can’t make it to lunch, copies of a “Mini” MouseAdventure will be available at a MousePlanet meet at the Plaza Pavilion at 2:00 p.m. This just-for-fun activity is designed to give you a small sample of MouseAdventure quests. No advance registration is required for the Mini MouseAdventure.

This giant inflatable house has made quite an impression on Disneyland visitors. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

…An inflatable Up display was installed at the Disneyland Resort main entrance plaza last week, and the giant house has been a popular photo opportunity for park visitors.

…MousePlanet earned a spot on You Tube’s “Most Viewed” list this weekend. Check out all of our videos at MousePlanet TV, and subscribe to our updates to see the latest videos as they are available (link).

…MousePlanet reader Jim shared with us the news that Mary Costa, the voice of Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, will make a public appearance on Saturday, June 20 at a benefit for the Opera Guild Company in Hollywood. The event is open to the public, and tickets are $60 per person. Jim says, “Mary typically travels from her Tennessee home to California once or twice a year, so here’s a public event where Disney fans can meet Mary and support the arts at the same time.” Visit the Opera Guild’s Web site for more information (link). For tickets or details call: Jeanette Floyd (323) 876-7735

…The renovated Lucky Fortune Cookery is scheduled to reopen this Thursday at Disney’s California Adventure, likely with a new name and a new Mexican menu. Once the location reopens, Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill will close through September 14 for renovation into a new counter-service restaurant.

…Disney Vacation Club members who call Disney’s Grand Californian Villas home can now book rooms at the Resort, scheduled to open in September. Sunday, June 21 is the first day for all other DVC members to make reservations.

…Multimedia artist Dave Avanzino will release two new pieces at the Disneyland Resort this month, and shared a preview with us. The pieces can be purchased at the Disneyana shop on Main Street, and possibly at the World of Disney store in Downtown Disney.

The “Disneyland Mountain Range” paper sculpture, created in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Matterhorn, is a Limited Edition of 10 pieces. Retail: $800 Image © Dave Avanzino and Disney.

The “20,000 Leagues under the Sea” paper sculpture is a Limited Edition of 10 pieces. Retail: $775 Image © Dave Avanzino and Disney.

…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 six weeks in advance. Be sure to check the most recent Park Update (link) 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 December 16 to return Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln to the Main Street Opera House.
• Snow White’s Scary Adventures – closed June 8 – July 3 for refurbishment.
• Pinocchio’s Daring Journey – closed July 20 – August 14 for refurbishment.
• The Enchanted Cottage – closed July 29 – November 17 for refurbishment.
• Casey Jr. Circus Trains – closed August 31 – November 20 for refurbishment.
• Storybook Land Canal Boats – closed August 31 – November 20 for refurbishment.

The Astro Orbitor has reopened at Disneyland. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

The Astro Orbitor was refinished in cool metallic tones, with jewel-tone accents. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.

Disney’s California Adventure

Refurbishments: 

• Blue Sky Cellar – closed July 10-15 for refurbishment.

Construction-related closures: 

• 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.
• 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.
• Corn Dog Castle – closed because of construction in the area. An employee publication lists May 26, 2011 as the return date.
• Souvenir 66 – closed because of construction in the area. An employee publication lists May 26, 2011 as the return date.
• Dinosaur Jack Sunglass Shack – closed because of construction in the area.
• Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill – The restaurant will close once the Lucky Fortune Cookery reopens on June 18, and will be closed through September 14 for renovation into a new counter-service restaurant. 
• Orange Stinger – closed July 27, 2009 to April 28, 2010 for refurbishment and renovation into the Silly Symphonies Swings.

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

• 2009 Grad Nite events – Wednesday, June 10; Thursday, June 11 and Thursday, 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).
• Unofficial Star Wars Day at Disneyland – June 27 (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. Space is extremely limited, so reserve your space today (link).
• 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. The event is now sold out (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.
• 2009 Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party – October 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 & 31. A separate ticket costume party at Disney’s California Adventure. Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders can purchased tickets now through the Passholder Web site (link). Remaining tickets will be available to the general public starting August 1st.
• MousePlanet nights at Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Party – Thursday, October 15 and Friday, October 30. Come meet some of the MousePlanet staff, MousePad Community Leaders and your fellow readers at one of two Trick-or-Treat parties. Purchase tickets in advance through the Disneyland Web site, and be sure to let us know which night you’re planning to attend by posting on our MousePad discussion board so we can have enough treats for everyone (link).
• 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 18, 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.
• Holiday Parade Filming (unconfirmed) – Saturday, November 13th. The annual taping of the Disneyland portions of the Walt Disney World Christmas special usually involves short, live performances by various musical guests and a shortened performance of the holiday parade at or near park opening.
• Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort (unconfirmed) – November 20, 2009 – January 3, 2010

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	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	3-Day Summer Fun Pass ($99) – Southern California and Northern Baja residents can take advantage of the newly-announced 3-day Summer Fun Pass to visit the Disneyland Resort three times within a 45-day period for $99, a savings of up to $100 off of an adult 3-Day Park Hopper Ticket. Unlike the Southern California 2Fer Ticket, the Summer Fun Pass is a park-hopper ticket, which lets you visit both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure on the same day. This ticket has a 45-day “fuse,” (instead of the usual 13- or 30-day limit), giving you more time to plan your return visit, and is not valid on the 4th of July. The first use of the pass must be between June 1 and August 23, 2009. The 3-day Summer Fun Pass will be offered at Disneyland.com (link), Disney Stores and at the Disneyland Resort ticket booths, as well as participating Vons, Albertsons, Ralphs, Stater Bros., Food 4 Less and Gelsons grocery stores. Toys ‘R’ Us and home furnishings retailer Dearden’s will also offer the tickets at their retail stores. 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) – [Extended through September, 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 extended through September 30, 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 Regularly $269	Costco $50 bonus gift card offer – [Extended through October, 2009] 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. Vouchers must be redeemed by October 31, 2009. Some Costco stores may still have vouchers with the 5/31/09 expiration date; the Disneyland Resort will honor these vouchers through 10/31/09.
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 through September 26, 2009, though the discounts are not available at the Good Neighbor Hotels until May 1. 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 through 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

Mandara Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel – The spa is offering a discount on select treatments booked Mondays through Thursdays. A flyer available at the hotel details the special offers available (link). A 20% service fee is added to all treatments, and the offer is subject to availability.

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.