HAIL TO THE CHIEF : Disney Imagineer John Cutry programs an Audio-Animatronics figure of President Barack Obama in preparation for the July 2009 re-launch of the Hall of Presidents attraction. The Magic Kingdom attraction features Audio-Animatronics figures of all U.S. Presidents. President Obama’s likeness will have a speaking role, along with the figures of President George Washington and President Abraham Lincoln.
PATRIOTIC PRIDE: A celebratory spirit fills the air every July 4th at the Walt Disney World Resort. Mickey Mouse and friends mark the holiday in grand style, with fireworks displays and special entertainment all across the Florida Vacation Kingdom.
A PIRATE'S LIFE FOR ME!: The Pirates League is the newest buccaneer adventure in the Magic Kingdom, featuring makeovers that turn theme park guests into savvy swashbucklers. Depending on the pirate package, a trained Pirate Master can transform boys, girls (ages 3 and up) and grownups into pirates, buccaneers and maidens using facial effects, fake scars, removable teeth, hats, bandanas and other costume accessories.
A PIRATE'S LIFE FOR ME!: The Pirates League is the newest buccaneer adventure in the Magic Kingdom, featuring makeovers that turn theme park guests into savvy swashbucklers. Here, a young boy receives the "Cursed Pirate" makeover. Guests can make reservations by calling 407/WDW-CREW (939-2739).
MAGICAL MOMS: Moms from every state took part in the biggest Celebration of Moms in the history of Disney Parks. Winners of the Macy's "Celebrate Mom" Sweepstakes traveled coast-to-coast on this magical adventure which began Monday June 22, 2009 with a sunrise breakfast on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Resort in California (top photo) and ended Thursday June 25, 2009 with a sunset dinner at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida (bottom photo).
UP, UP AND AWAY!: Characters from the hit Disney-Pixar animated comedy "UP" have landed at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The three stars -- (L-R): Russell, an eight-year-old Wilderness Explorer; Carl Fredricksen, a 78-year-old balloon salesman; and Dug, a dog -- pose in front of the Sorcerer Hat. The characters make meet-and-greet appearances inside the "Magic of Disney Animation" attraction.
TINKER BELL VIEWS: Downtown Disney guests get lofty, Tinker Bell views of Walt Disney World Resort and beyond as they soar to rarified heights in a new attraction now open every day (weather permitting) at Downtown Disney West Side near Pleasure Island.
WATERFUL WORLD OF DISNEY: Splashtacular smiles can be seen on children of all ages this summer at Walt Disney World Resort. Interactive fountains are featured at locations across the Walt Disney World Resort. Here, a young guest enjoys the cool fun at Epcot.
STAYING COOL IN THE POOL: Stormalong Bay, the largest and most unusual water recreation area of its kind, is as relaxing as it is breathtaking. Guests at Disney's Yacht Club Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort enjoy swimming in a 750,000-gallon, sand-bottom lagoon with bubbling fountains, whirlpools, a life-size shipwreck play area and a giant water slide.
DANCING IN THE STREETS: Magic Kingdom frolics to a festive beat during the new, high-energy “Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It!” street party. A cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers and more “move it” down Main Street, U.S.A. accompanied by festive party tunes and an open invitation to park guests to come join the fun.
LET'S CELEBRATE: Dozens of Disney characters, dancers and performers star in the new "Celebrate a Dream Come True" parade in the Magic Kingdom. The procession makes stops, during which party dancers perform and get guests into a celebratory spirit.
PRETTY AS A PRINCESS: Little girls are pretty as a princess in the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located inside Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom. There are three magical makeover packages that young princesses-to-be can choose.
FLAVORS OF AFRICA, INDIA: As part of the Kidani Village expansion of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, diners are treated to a new restaurant - Sanaa. The menu in the 150-seat, family-oriented restaurant reflects the art of African cooking with Indian flavors.
WELCOME TO HOLLYWOOD (STUDIOS)!: Confetti falls during "The American Idol Experience" at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. All the excitement of the popular "American Idol" TV show comes to life in the first-of-its-kind attraction.
CAT & MOUSE: Celebrity chef Cat Cora and Disney are joining together to open an exciting new family dining restaurant at Walt Disney World Resort, Kouzzina by Cat Cora. The restaurant, to be owned and operated by Disney, is scheduled to open by fall 2009.