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Tag Archives: 2010s

May 7

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May 7, 2012 – The Disney Wonder Stops in Hawaii for the First Time

“Let us know…if you wish you were saying ‘aloha’ to these gorgeous islands today or if you’re saying on our next Hawaiian cruise in October.”

On May 7, 2012, the Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Wonder, was the first Disney Cruise Line ship to sail to the Hawaiian Islands. The 15-night voyage took guests through Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach. Soon after, a 14-night voyage was also offered, departing from the Port of Los Angeles.

May 4

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May 4, 2012 – A Male White Rhino is Born in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

“A rhino birth is a significant event because at one time the species was nearly extinct.”

On May 4, 2012, it was announced that a male white rhino calf was born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This was the fourth white rhino born to 13-year-old Kendi, who was the first rhino born in the park. His birth is also significant as being the third generation of the line that started at the park. Disney is part of specialized conservation efforts to help save the declining rhino population, which has grown to over 20,000 worldwide.

April 30

April 30, 2017 – The Disney Explorers Lodge Opens in Hong Kong Disneyland

“Take a break from your exciting adventures and join fellow explorers in this respite surrounded by the wonders of nature and diverse cultures.”

On April 30, 2017, the Disney Explorers Lodge resort opened in Hong Kong Disneyland. The resort is designed to represent several cultures and the spirit of exploration, and features 750-rooms that represent four climates from four areas: Asia, Oceania, South America, and Africa. The resort features three restaurants (Dragon Wind, World of Color, and Chart Room Café) that feature cuisines from the five continents.

April 27

April 27, 2015 – Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Opens in Walt Disney World

“You grotto check out this tropical tiki bar that captures the romance of the South Seas through unique food and drinks.”

On April 27, 2015, the lounge Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto opened in the lobby of Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort. Named for the character in the Jungle Cruise attraction, the grotto provides guests a place to unwind and relax with a specialty cocktail and appetizer, which includes the Headhunter Sushi Roll, Hawaiian Poke, and the Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum cocktail. The grotto is similar to the Trader Sam’s Enchanted TIki Bar that opened in Disneyland in 2011.

April 24

April 24, 2017 – The Disney Springs Restaurant Portobello Closes

“Country Italian Trattoria”

On April 24, 2017, the Italian restaurant Portobello officially closed. The restaurant, operated by Levy Restaurants, originally opened as Portobello Yacht Club on May 1, 1989. The restaurant was renamed on October 12, 2008, becoming Portobello Country Italian Trattoria. A star feature of the restaurant was its waterfront patio. The restaurant was eventually closed to make room for the new Terralina Crafted Italian restaurant.

April 23

April 23, 2015 – Doc McStuffins Wins Peabody Award

“Charming, sweet and gently humorous, this animated series, featuring an African-American physician’s daughter who attends to damaged stuffed animals and other broken toys, allays children’s fears about doctor visits even as it promotes medicine as a profession.”

On April 23, 2015 ,the 74th Peabody Awards were held, and the Disney Junior show Doc McStuffins won the award in the Children/Youth category. The show has won several accolades in addition to this, including an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Children’s Program.

April 16

April 16, 2010 – The Clothing Shop D Street Opens in Downtown Disney

“…where urban inspired product ‘intersects’ with a Disney creative edge.”

On April 16, 2010, the clothing shop D Street opened in Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney shopping area. Located on the West Side, the shop featured unique clothing featuring classic Disney characters, as well as a selection of Vinylmation figures and other collectibles. While the store did transfer over to the Disney Springs expansion, it eventually closed in 2015.

April 14

April 14, 2016 – Groundbreaking Takes Place for Star Wars Land

“This is the theme park you’re looking for.”

On April 14, 2016, the groundbreaking for the new Star Wars-themed lands took place at the Disneyland Resort and in Walt Disney World. This expansion of the park is the largest single-themed land expansion for the American Disney parks, spanning 14-acres. To celebrate this event, a 360-degree photo was released online to give guests an immersive experience in the building of the park, complete with appearances by R2-D2 and BB-8.

April 4

April 4, 2011 – The House of Good Fortune Opens in Epcot

“The shop contains an incredible assortment of goods including house wares, lamps, vases, tea sets, accessories, and decorative figurines.”

On April 4, 2011, the House of Good Fortune opened in the China Pavilion of Walt Disney World’s Epcot Park. Replacing Yong Feng Shangdian, the store sells authentic Chinese merchandise ranging from traditional Chinese clothing, housewares, and panda-related knick-knacks.

April 1

April 1, 2011 – Box Office Gifts Opens in Magic Kingdom Park

On April 1, 2011, the camera supply shop Box Office Gifts opened in Town Square Theater, located in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park. The area sells gifts that help capture the memories of meeting Mickey Mouse, including MagicBands that keep track of guests’ photos. Guests can also use the kiosks to view their photos and ask for a special print out of their favorites.