Includes renderings of Splitsville, Downtown Disney and b-roll of Splitsville, Tampa, FL.

A celebration of all-things-Star Wars, the special event is included in regular park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  Among the features: special Star Wars-themed parades, appearances by Star Wars celebrities, special additions to Jedi Training Academy, Star Wars-themed talk shows, behind-the-scenes presentations, limited-edition merchandise, a nightly dance celebration and more.  The centerpiece of the celebration is Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, the immersive 3-D attraction that speeds guests through worlds featured in the Star Wars saga.

This year’s event includes a nod to the 30^th anniversary of Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, which debuted in theaters in May 1983.

Two Star Wars film legends – one who portrayed a villain and one who portrayed a hero – will double the fun in two consecutive weekends.  Action star Ray Park, who portrayed the Sith warrior Darth Maul on the silver screen, is one of the celebrity guests in Weekends I and II.  Actor Warwick Davis, known to Star Wars fans as everyone’s favorite Ewok, Wicket W. Warrick, is one of the guests during Weekends II and III.

Also showcased at the event: the largest collection of official Star Wars characters gathered at any theme park in the world, roaming the areas and posing for meet-and-greet and autograph opportunities in front of themed scenery.

For more information about Star Wars Weekends and the latest event updates, guests may check the Disney Parks Blog (disneyparksblog.com — Keyword: “Star Wars”), the official Star Wars website (StarWars.com — Keyword: “Disney”) and the official Walt Disney World Resort website (disneyworld.com — Keyword: “Star Wars Weekends”).

Star Wars: © 2013 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM.

###

StarWarsWeekends2013:4-2-13:gb

Splitsville at Downtown Disney is the bowling brand’s only two-level location with 30 lanes and more than 50,000 square feet of entertainment space – twice the size of any other Splitsville – featuring billiards, live entertainment, a balcony bar with sweeping views and upscale dining options that cater to the entire family. This is not your father’s bowling alley.

“Splitsville is a perfect fit for Downtown Disney,” said Keith Bradford, vice president of Downtown Disney. “From a new twist on a beloved sport to an impressive menu you’d never expect to find in a bowling facility, Splitsville offers a great experience that complements our other unique offerings at Downtown Disney. I’m sure it will quickly become a guest favorite.”

The Splitsville concept is anchored by bowling – the largest participation sport in America – but with a modern take that brings together entertainment and upscale food in a non-traditional bowling setting. For instance, the décor is a blend of hip and nostalgic elements with the bowling lanes separated into clusters that create unexpected sight lines for guests. There are also lane concierges available nightly to help maximize the bowling experience for guests.

“Splitsville is about socialization and creating memories. In a world of smart phones, texts and social media, people need an outlet to connect in person again,” said Mark Gibson, co-founder of Splitsville. “Bowling is an activity that appeals to almost everyone and the natural gaps of time between frames allows families, friends or work mates to engage in conversation, grab some sushi or encourage guests on the next lane.”

The Splitsville menu is distinctly different than your typical bowling alley fare. Guided by award-winning chef Tim Cushman, the menu features a variety of higher-end offerings such as grilled Mahi Mahi with “Voodoo” shrimp, filet sliders and grilled chicken parmesan, plus a kids menu, in addition to traditional bowling alley food items. There are even two sushi bars where guests can get fresh-rolled sushi.

“We’ve created a collection of menu items that are perfect for sharing,” said Guy Revelle, co-founder of Splitsville. “Whether it is sushi, sliders or pizza, customers can order combinations of food and then taste a little bit of everything.  It creates a very interactive and social experience where the Splitsville concept helps ‘break the ice’ and allow guests of all ages to relax and enjoy their time at our luxury lanes!”

What’s the price to bowl?

Prices and length of play time vary based on time of day and party size, and include the cost of shoe rentals. Prior to 4 p.m., the rate is $15 per person. After 4 p.m., the rate is $20 per person. Guests visiting after 10:30 p.m. between Monday and Thursday can take a late-night spin for a special rate of $15 per person.

Guests who take advantage of Priority Bowling receive access to the next available lane upon check-in for $80 per person for one hour prior to 5 p.m. and $125 per person for one hour of bowling after 5 p.m. The wait time will vary based on volume. Maximum of 2 lanes per group. Maximum of 8 bowlers per lane. Restrictions may apply for the duration of Priority Bowling.

The addition of Splitsville builds on the expanding list of entertainment and retail options for guests at Downtown Disney. Florida’s first AMC Fork & Screen movie theatre, Characters in Flight operated by Aerophile, Sunglass Icon, and Something Silver are just a few of the other recent additions to Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort.

Splitsville at Downtown Disney is the Orlando-based chain’s fifth location joining venues in Tampa, FL, Miami, FL, Fairview, TX and Fredericksburg, VA. The expansion to Downtown Disney comes amid a growth era for the sport of bowling, which is the most popular participation sport in America with nearly 70 million people participating in the sport each year, according to the Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America. More than 60 percent of bowlers in the United States are under age 34 and nearly half are women.

###

ABOUT SPLITSVILLE LUXURY LANES

Since the opening of the original location in Tampa, Fla. in 2003, Splitsville Luxury Lanes has grown to include locations in Miami, Fla., Fairview, TX and Fredericksburg, VA. Splitsville Luxury Lanes provides a complete entertainment experience through its comfortable atmosphere, sophisticated full menu, chic bars and innovative design.  For more information, visit www.splitsvillelanes.com.

SplitsvilleFacts/12/19/2012: gg

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 14, 2013 – Walt Disney World Resort today announced the multi-year transformation of Downtown Disney into Disney Springs, a unique destination that will treat guests to significantly more shopping, dining and entertainment amid beautiful open-air promenades, meandering springs and waterfront charm.

Disney Springs will feature an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands. From boutique shops to unique flagship anchor stores, guests will be able to explore a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences and discover options unlike any other currently available in Central Florida.

“Disney Springs will be a timeless, vibrant place where Walt Disney World guests and local residents can relax, shop, dine and be entertained in an imaginative setting where they’ll instantly feel at home,” said Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Featuring distinctive brands, world-class restaurants and unforgettable entertainment, Disney Springs will be brought to life with the same focus on storytelling and attention to detail that goes into our theme parks, resorts and cruise ships, resulting in a welcoming space that only Disney could create.”

Disney Springs will double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, resulting in more than 150 establishments. In addition, Staggs noted, Central Florida stands to benefit from the expansion with more jobs, tax revenues and business opportunities.

Drawing inspiration from Florida’s waterfront towns and natural beauty, Disney Springs will include four outdoor neighborhoods interconnected by a flowing spring and vibrant lakefront. In addition to a new gateway with a signature water tower and grand entry, the destination will feature:

• The Town Center, which offers a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a promenade where guests can relax, refresh and reconnect.

• A colorful and thriving commercial district called The Landing with inspired dining and beautiful waterfront views.

• The family-friendly Marketplace that will continue to delight guests of all ages by combining new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney store.

• A West Side that provides an exuberant atmosphere with lively entertainment, along with a series of new elevated spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the activity below.

Collectively, these efforts will not only have an impact within Walt Disney World, but will also have an economic ripple effect on Central Florida. The project will create an estimated 1,200 construction jobs and nearly 4,000 operational roles.

Disney will share more details on specific experiences coming to Disney Springs in the future. Construction is slated to begin next month with new areas opening in phases. Disney Springs is expected to be complete in 2016.

###

Wearin’ of the green is encouraged, but not mandatory during the most authentic St. Patrick’s Day celebration in town March 8-10 and 14-17 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant and across Downtown Disney Pleasure Island. More than 10 top Irish bands will perform on select days during the festivities, with amped up entertainment the second weekend.

At Raglan Road, a true Irish pub with Dublin roots, it’s a “Mighty Festival” that will include Irish bands and professional dancers performing on several stages indoors and out.  Also on tap: a mighty selection of beers, food by Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon and plenty of St. Patrick’s Day memorabilia.

The spirited week of revelry will gear up March 8-10 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. with performances at Raglan Road by The Willis Clan, a family of artists and musicians who merge their Irish roots with other music genres.  Nova Celtic, with its own twist on popular Irish music, will appear on a nearby outdoor stage.  Beginning March 14 and 15 from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m., and continuing March 16 and 17 from noon until 1 a.m., a few highlights of the celebration across Pleasure Island will include:

• Performances by The Willis Clan, Girsa, Albannach and world-famous U2 tribute band Elevation
• Renowned Irish dancer and choreographer Ronan McCormack of the original Riverdance cast, leading Irish Dance Workshops Friday through Sunday
• More than 50 musicians and dancers performing, plus face painting, stilt walkers and giveaways

Guests can order from Raglan Road’s popular food and drink menus throughout the event.  The Cooke’s of Dublin counter-service eatery will offer Irish favorites like fish and chips, battered sausages and deep-fried candy bars, and guests will discover additional food offerings across Pleasure Island.

On Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated at Raglan Road on a first-come, first-served basis.  Access to select entertainment on March 16 will include a $5 cover charge for guests 18 and older; on March 17, cover will run up to $10.  Raglan Road reservations can be booked on March 14 and 15 by calling 407/938-0300.  For more information visit Disneyworld.com/StPatricksDay

At Raglan Road, a true Irish pub with Dublin roots, it’s a “Mighty Festival” that will include Irish bands and professional dancers performing on several stages indoors and out.  Also on tap: a mighty selection of beers, food by Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon and plenty of St. Patrick’s Day memorabilia.

The spirited week of revelry will gear up March 8-10 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. with performances at Raglan Road by The Willis Clan, a family of artists and musicians who merge their Irish roots with other music genres.  Nova Celtic, with its own twist on popular Irish music, will appear on a nearby outdoor stage.  Beginning March 14 and 15 from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m., and continuing March 16 and 17 from noon until 1 a.m., a few highlights of the celebration across Pleasure Island will include:

• Performances by The Willis Clan, Girsa, Albannach and world-famous U2 tribute band Elevation
• Renowned Irish dancer and choreographer Ronan McCormack of the original Riverdance cast, leading Irish Dance Workshops Friday through Sunday
• More than 50 musicians and dancers performing, plus face painting, stilt walkers and giveaways

Guests can order from Raglan Road’s popular food and drink menus throughout the event.  The Cooke’s of Dublin counter-service eatery will offer Irish favorites like fish and chips, battered sausages and deep-fried candy bars, and guests will discover additional food offerings across Pleasure Island.

On Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated at Raglan Road on a first-come, first-served basis.  Access to select entertainment on March 16 will include a $5 cover charge for guests 18 and older; on March 17, cover will run up to $10.  Raglan Road reservations can be booked on March 14 and 15 by calling 407/938-0300.  For more information visit Disneyworld.com/StPatricksDay.

###

The spirited week of revelry gears up with a multi-day celebration at Raglan Road, a true Irish pub with Dublin roots, that includes Irish bands and pro dancers performing on several stages indoors and out throughout Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney, located at Walt Disney World Resort. Also on tap during the celebration is a mighty selection of beers, specially crafted food, face painting, stiltwalkers and plenty of St. Patrick’s Day memorabilia. In 2013, the event gears up March 8-10 from 6 to 11 p.m. with performances at Raglan Road by The Willis Clan, a family of artists and musicians who merge their Irish roots with other music genres. Nova Celtic, with its own twist on popular Irish music, will appear on a nearby outdoor stage. Beginning March 14 and 15 from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m., and continuing March 16 and 17 from noon until 1 a.m., it’s a “Mighty Festival” at Raglan Road. The spirited week of revelry gears up with a multi-day “Mighty Festival”at Raglan Road, a true Irish pub with Dublin roots, that includes Irish bands and pro dancers performing on several stages indoors and out throughout Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney, located at Walt Disney World Resort. Also on tap during the celebration is a mighty selection of beers, specially crafted food, face painting, stiltwalkers and plenty of St. Patrick’s Day memorabilia. The Willis Clan performs March 8-10 and 14-17 during the Downtown Disney St. Patrick’s Day celebration. This family of musicians and dancers from Nashville, Tenn., have performed internationally for almost 10 years and recently returned from Ireland after opening for country music superstars The Band Perry and Brad Paisley at the O2 arena in Dublin. This photo of the 12 band members is from their current “Roots” CD of original Irish tunes blending the old with the new. A spirited week of revelry gears up with a multi-day celebration March 8-10 and 14-17 at Ragland Road at Downtown Disney. The festivities include popular U2 Tribute band Elevation, seen here, Irish bands and pro dancers performing on several stages throughout Pleasure Island. Also on tap during the celebration is a mighty selection of beers, specially crafted food, face painting, stiltwalkers and plenty of St. Patrick’s Day memorabilia. Downtown Disney is located at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.