Travel
Disneyland Resort Celebrates Disney100 with Grand Opening of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, New Nighttime Spectaculars, ‘Magic Happens’ Parade and More
Last Updated on August 7, 2024 by Daily News Staff
- Dazzling celebration honors 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company with décor, food and beverages, merchandise and more
- New entertainment and attractions debut Jan. 27: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, ‘World of Color – ONE’ and ‘Wondrous Journeys’ nighttime spectaculars and platinum décor
- Coming later in 2023: ‘Magic Happens’ parade returns, reimagined Mickey’s Toontown reopens and new hotel developments debut
ANAHEIM, Calif., Jan. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/– The Walt Disney Company marks its 100th anniversary in 2023, and the Disneyland Resort will celebrate the milestone with new experiences and entertainment, décor, specialty treats and more throughout the year, beginning Jan. 27, 2023. Disney100 celebrates Disney storytellers, creators and fans around the world who, together, spark the magic and wonder of Disney. This celebration will bring new experiences with beloved Disney characters along with heartwarming new stories to delight guests and audiences around the globe.
While Disney Parks around the world will commemorate the 100th anniversary, the heart of the celebration is rooted at the Disneyland Resort. The festivities at The Happiest Place on Earth begin on Jan. 27 with the grand opening of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and the debut of all-new nighttime spectaculars by Disney Live Entertainment: “World of Color – ONE” and “Wondrous Journeys.” More magic will arrive throughout 2023, including the return of the “Magic Happens” parade on Feb. 24, reopening of Mickey’s Toontown on March 8 and new developments at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort coming later this year. Disneyland Resort cast members will be among the first to experience select offerings with special #DisneyCastLife opportunities.
“We are excited to bring this milestone celebration to life right here at The Happiest Place on Earth,” said Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock. “For generations of families and fans around the world who have made Disney a part of their lives, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy all-new experiences with beloved Disney characters, our caring cast and our amazing storytelling throughout the year.”
New attractions and entertainment celebrate Disney stories
All-new experiences debuting on Jan. 27 immerse guests in beloved Disney stories and draw inspiration from the history of The Walt Disney Company.
The all-new, family-friendly attraction Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway makes its Disneyland Park debut. Inside the El CapiTOON Theater in Mickey’s Toontown, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway transports guests into the wacky and unpredictable cartoon world of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, where they board a train engineered by Goofy and embark on a zany, out-of-control adventure with surprising twists and turns.
To experience Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, guests will be required to join the complimentary virtual queue*, which is accessible only via the Disneyland app.** Upon its grand opening, there will not be a standby line for this attraction. The virtual queue enrollment times will be twice daily, at 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. PT. More information on the virtual queue system is available at Disneyland.com. Guests may also get quicker entry to this attraction with the purchase of an individual Lightning Lane arrival window, subject to availability.
“World of Color – ONE” at Disney California Adventure Park celebrates the storytelling legacy started by Walt Disney a century ago, illustrating how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. Featuring a new original song, “Start a Wave,” this new nighttime spectacular brings some of the most courageous, loving and inspiring characters to life in new ways. This is the first Disneyland Resort nighttime spectacular to feature characters, music and moments from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, the Avengers and Star Wars in the same production.
Guests will be able to access viewing areas for “World of Color – ONE” through the virtual queue* system available only via the Disneyland app. Distribution for the complimentary virtual queue will begin at noon, daily, subject to availability. More information is available at Disneyland.com. If the virtual queue reaches capacity, guests can check in with a cast member at the Paradise Bay viewing area shortly before “World of Color – ONE” begins for walk-up viewing options. Joining the virtual queue is not required, but it is highly recommended as walk-up viewing options for each performance are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland Park features nods to every Walt Disney Animation Studios film over the last century and a new song, “It’s Wondrous.” Filled with artistry, music, storytelling and heart, the nighttime spectacular builds upon the park’s state-of-the-art projection effects to turn Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, the façade of “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America into an artist’s canvas. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks.
MagicBand+ builds another dimension of storytelling to “World of Color – ONE” and “Wondrous Journeys,” with dancing lights and vibrations synchronized to both spectaculars.
A new exhibit, The Disney Gallery Presents: Disney 100 Years of Wonder, will be on display at Disneyland Park. Inspired by Walt’s vision for Disneyland to be where his films come to life in the real world, the exhibit pays tribute to Disney films that became Disneyland Resort attractions, park experiences that later inspired Disney films and the rich traditions they both share. Guests will see artwork created by original Disney animators for some of Walt’s early films, alongside artwork concepted by original Disney Imagineers to recreate those stories in the park – in addition to an animator’s desk, a model of a multi-plane camera and more.
Disney100 offerings at The Happiest Place on Earth
Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will be adorned in platinum-infused décor – including platinum statues and medallions scattered across the resort. Later in 2023, MagicBand+ will interact with and add more dazzle to select décor.
Walt Disney’s original Sleeping Beauty Castle will be dressed in elegant platinum banners and bunting, accented by a magnificent cabochon, two majestic water fountains in the surrounding moat and a wishing star shining on the tower above. At Disneyland Park, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals will don new, sparkling outfits designed to reflect the optimism and creativity that are at the heart of everything Disney.
Guests can savor a century of magic through more than a dozen specialty food and beverage items, such as the platinum trifle and old-fashioned cream soda, and novelties like the Disney100 Mickey Mouse sipper and platinum Mickey Mouse balloon bucket.
Disney fans can also bring the magic home with commemorative Disney100 merchandise and collectibles released throughout the year, including the Disney100 Platinum Celebration Collection, special MagicBand+ designs, collectible medallions and pressed pennies.
The Disney100 celebration extends to the Downtown Disney District with platinum décor, fun photo opportunities and special menu items at select dining locations.
More magic to come in 2023
The “Magic Happens” parade makes its highly anticipated return to Disneyland Park on Feb. 24. Led by Mickey Mouse and his pals, the daytime spectacular celebrates moments of magic from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films as they are brought to life with grand-scale floats, artistic costumes and an energetic musical score.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will be joined by additional new experiences and returning favorites when the reimagined Mickey’s Toontown reopens on March 8, 2023. The beloved land will feature more play activities and attractions than ever before, in addition to grassy play spaces for guests of all ages to unwind. Interactive play areas such as CenTOONial Park, Goofy’s How-To-Play Yard and Donald’s Duck Pond create more opportunities for families and young children to play together inside Disneyland Park, and guests will be able to enjoy classics like Mickey’s House, Minnie’s House and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin once again.
In the spring, guests are invited to experience seasonal offerings and returning fan-favorite events at the Disneyland Resort. Disney California Adventure Park is ringing in the Year of the Rabbit with the Lunar New Year celebration through Feb. 15, and the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival returns March 3 through April 25.
Alongside the Disney100 anniversary celebration, the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will debut new developments later this year. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will become Pixar Place Hotel, which weaves the artistry of Pixar into a comfortable, contemporary setting. The Villas at Disneyland Hotel – a new, 344-room tower – will immerse guests in decades of animated classics through a blend of contemporary designs and timeless artworks inspired by Disney Legends.
SOURCE Disneyland
Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at STM Daily News/Entertainment and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/
and let your entertainment journey begin!
Author
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Daily News Staff
(Feature Impact) To add charm to your yard, encourage local wildlife and give you a front-row seat to nature, building a birdhouse is a simple weekend project that checks all of those boxes.
Building a Birdhouse
Seasoned DIYers and first-timers alike can follow this step-by-step guide to create a functional, welcoming birdhouse.
Step 1: Choose the Right Design
Start by deciding what type of birds you’d like to attract. Different birds prefer different house sizes and entrance types. A simple, classic birdhouse design makes the project beginner-friendly and works well for common backyard birds like wrens, chickadees and bluebirds. In general, plan for at least a 1-1 2/2-inch entrance hole, a 5-by-5-inch interior space and 2 inches or more of roof overhang.
Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools
Most DIY birdhouses can be built with basic materials and tools you may already have at home, including untreated cedar or pine wood, screws or nails, wood glue, sandpaper and exterior-safe paint as well as a measuring tape, pencil, saw and drill.
Step 3: Measure and Cut Wood
Measure and cut wood to make the front panel, back panel, two side panels, floor and roof. Then sand all edges for smooth assembly.
Step 4: Drill Holes
Using a hole-saw bit, drill the entrance hole into the front panel. Position it a few inches below the roofline to keep predators out. Next, drill 2-3 small drainage holes in the floor piece to prevent water buildup and help keep the birdhouse dry.
Step 5: Assemble the Birdhouse
Attach the side panels to the back panel using screws or nails. Add the front panel then secure the floor piece, slightly recessed, so rainwater can drain. Attach the roof last, making sure it slopes slightly to allow water to run off.
Step 6: Paint the Exterior
If you plan to paint your birdhouse, stick to neutral, nature-inspired colors. Light browns, soft greens or white help regulate temperature and blend into the environment.
Step 7: Mount Your Birdhouse
Once dry, place your birdhouse in a quiet, sheltered spot away from heavy foot traffic. Mount or hang it 5-10 feet off the ground, facing away from prevailing winds.
Visit eLivingtoday.com for more DIY project inspiration.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
home gardening
Start Planning Now for a Thriving Spring Garden
Winter offers an ideal time to plan for a successful spring garden. Assess your current space, research planting ideas, and design an efficient layout. Enhance soil health with compost, start seeds indoors for stronger plants, and organize tools to ensure readiness for the growing season. Prepare now for a thriving garden.
Last Updated on March 11, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Start Planning Now for a Thriving Spring Garden
(Family Features) While winter weather puts outdoor gardening on pause in most parts of the country, the colder months offer a perfect opportunity to begin preparing for a lush garden come springtime.
With a little creativity, and some extra time spent creating a plan, you can set yourself on a path toward success before the growing season even begins.
Assess Your Space and Research Ideas
Evaluate your current garden, taking note of what worked well last season and where improvements can be made. Use this downtime to sketch an updated layout, research companion plants and decide which fruits, vegetables or flowers you want to grow next based on what did (or didn’t) work last spring.
Build an Updated Blueprint
Winter is the ideal time to upgrade your garden design and make tweaks for efficiency. Use the offseason to consider crop rotation patterns for optimal soil health as well as ways to maximize your space such as raised beds, trellises or containers. You can also make a list of materials needed for any new features you may be adding, such as an irrigation system, and map out their placement so you’re ready to build as soon as the weather allows.
Nourish the Soil
Even if the ground is frozen, you can prepare your garden beds by adding compost, leaves or organic matter in late winter, ensuring nutrients are available when spring arrives. Also remember to test your soil’s pH level now, which can help guide your fertilization plan.
Start Seeds Indoors
If you’re eager to get your hands dirty, consider starting your seeds indoors. Early seed starting gives plants a head start, allowing you to transplant stronger seedlings outdoors when temperatures warm.
Get Organized
Use the slower pace of winter to clean and sharpen your garden tools, sort through leftover seeds and make a supply checklist so you’re ready to dig in when warmer days arrive.
Find more advice to get your garden ready to burst to life in spring at eLivingtoday.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Travel Advisory
Traveling to Mexico this spring? Here’s what to know about current advisories
Traveling to Mexico this spring? Visitors should be aware of state-specific travel advisories, as safety concerns in one region do not affect major resort areas like Cancun and Los Cabos, currently rated Level 2, which encourages increased caution. Monitoring official updates is essential for informed travel decisions amidst evolving conditions.
Last Updated on March 10, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Traveling to Mexico this spring? Here’s what to know about current advisories
(Tiffany Miller for ALG Vacations) For some travelers counting down to spring break, recent headlines about violence in parts of Mexico have sparked a new question: Should I cancel my trip? Travel advisors say they are seeing a surge in calls and emails from clients trying to determine whether developments in one region affect major resort areas elsewhere.
The questions follow several days of unrest in parts of Mexico after security operations targeting organized crime leaders prompted temporary flight disruptions and shelter-in-place guidance for U.S. government personnel in areas including Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. In this article, ALG Vacations explains what current travel advisories mean for spring break travelers heading to Mexico.
The U.S. State Department evaluates Mexico state by state, not as a single destination, and advisory levels vary by region. Many major beach destinations, including Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum and Los Cabos, are currently under a Level 2 advisory, which encourages travelers to exercise increased caution. It does not discourage travel.
Part of the confusion stems from geography. Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific coast, is roughly 1,300 miles from Cancun and the Riviera Maya on the Caribbean side, about the distance between New York and Miami. Because advisories are assigned state by state, developments in one region do not automatically alter another.
In recent days, that uncertainty has translated into additional inquiries about whether specific resort areas are experiencing disruptions. U.S. Embassy security alerts issued this week indicate that temporary shelter-in-place guidance affecting Puerto Vallarta was lifted and that flight operations resumed. The advisory level for the Mexican state of Quintana Roo remains unchanged.
Some clients are asking about alternatives, advisors say, but many are continuing with their plans after reviewing official updates. Travel patterns often shift in response to breaking headlines, they add, before stabilizing as clearer information becomes available.
The State Department assigns travel advisories on a four-tier scale ranging from Level 1, exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, do not travel. While Level 2 encourages increased awareness, Level 3 and Level 4 carry stronger language discouraging or restricting travel.
Advisories are reviewed regularly and can be updated as conditions evolve. The State Department’s Mexico advisory page breaks down conditions by state, reflecting the country’s federal structure rather than issuing a single national designation. Travelers can also enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which provides real-time security updates and allows U.S. officials to contact citizens in an emergency.
Embassy notices state that airports, hotels and tourism services in Quintana Roo are operating normally. Security conditions across Mexico vary widely by state, with some regions carrying higher advisories and others designated Level 1. Most destinations popular with U.S. travelers are currently classified as Level 2.
As spring break approaches, advisors say informed decision-making depends on reviewing the advisories assigned to a specific destination and monitoring official updates, rather than reacting to national headlines alone. Travel decisions ultimately depend on individual comfort levels, they add, but advisory levels are assigned regionally and should be evaluated accordingly.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
