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Tag Archives: Disney Park

October 1

October 1, 1982 – The Tea Caddy Opens in Epcot

“Brew the perfect cuppa with Twinings tea and tea accessories, and browse British sweets, cookies and royal memorabilia.”

On October 1, 1982, the specialty shop The Tea Caddy opened in the United Kingdom pavilion of Epcot’s World Showcase at Walt Disney World. The store specializes in tea from the British brand Twinings, which has been selling tea since 1706; the store also sells a variety of tea biscuits and assorted sweets, ranging in brands from McVitie’s to Cadbury, along with everything one would need to brew the perfect cup of tea.

September 30

September 30, 2012 – The Store Big Top Souvenirs Opens in Storybook Circus

“Come one, come all and gather ‘round this three-ring extravaganza for a magical circus packed with zesty snacks, sweet treats and unforgettable souvenirs…”

On September 30, 2012, the themed merchandise stop Big Top Souvenirs opened in the Storybook Circus area of Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World. Replacing the County Bounty store of the old Mickey’s Toontown Fair area, the store is located just outside of Pete’s Silly Sideshow. The store is a mix of merchandise ranging from Mickey ears to kitchen goods; the store also sells a variety of sweet treats ranging from special drinks to designed candy apples.

September 29

September 29, 1991 – The Studio Showcase Attraction Opens in Disney-MGM Studios

On September 29, 1991, the Studio Showcase walkthrough attraction opened in Disney-MGM Studios (now Hollywood Studios) Park in Walt Disney World. Hosted by the American Film Institute, the attraction gave guests a chance to see a variety of exhibits that featured costumes and props from famous films after going through the Studio Backlot Tour Guests also could buy items from a gift shop in the same location. The attraction closed on August 16, 2014.

September 28

September 28, 1996 – The Grand Prix Raceway Reopens as Tomorrowland Speedway

“Put the pedal to the metal in your very own hotrod and cruise along a scenic miniature motorway.”

On September 28, 1996, the Tomorrowland Speedway reopened with its new name in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park. Originally known as the Grand Prix Raceway, this new name would only last for three years, until it was renamed as the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway in 1999; the name has since been changed back to Tomorrowland Speedway. The attraction was still the same, with guests able to race in a gas-powered racecar down the scenic motorway.

September 26

September 26, 1991 – The Restaurant Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano Opens in Disney-MGM Studios

“Once upon a time, a young girl from a small Sicilian village moved from Hollywood to become a star.”

On September 26, 1991, the casual dining restaurant Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano opened in Disney-MGM Studios (now known as Hollywood Studios) in Walt Disney World. To fit with the theme of the glamor of Hollywood, the backstory of the restaurant is that a young girl came to Hollywood to make it big, but ended up creating a restaurant that caught the attention of the top industry insiders. The restaurant features Italian-themed favorites such as fried calamari, four-cheese baked macaroni, and tiramisu.

September 24

September 24, 1986 – The Shop La Boutique des Provinces Opens in Epcot

On September 24, 1986, the specialty shop La Boutique des Provinces opened in the Canada Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. It sold special upscale gifts, such as jewelry, perfume, and ornaments, from French Canada. It was located within the Hôtel du Canada, the main structure used to represent the Canadian pavilion. The store closed around 2005.

September 22

September 22, 1991 – The Surprise Celebration Parade Kicks Off in Walt Disney World

“One of 20 spectacular new reasons to visit this year!”

On September 22, 1991, the Surprise Celebration Parade began its run in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park. Thrown to help celebrate the 20th anniversary of Walt Disney World, the parade featured 40-feet-tall character balloons that celebrated different festivals from around the world. The parade ran until June 4, 1994, and was followed by the Mickey Mania Parade.

September 21

September 21, 2007 – The Merchandise Store Toy Station Opens in Tokyo Disneyland

ディズニーのおもちゃが大集合!”

On September 21, 2007, the specialty merchandise store Toy Station opened in Tokyo Disneyland. The shop, located in the World Bazaar, focuses mainly on toys, but also sells snacks, batteries, and umbrellas and ponchos for rainy days within the park. The store features a variety of Disney character toys, ranging from classic characters to Pixar favorites.

September 20

September 20, 1986 – The Television Special Disney’s Captain EO Grand Opening Premieres on NBC

“Now, join a galaxy of stars and celebrities as they gather in Disneyland for Disney’s Captain EO Grand Opening!”

On September 20, 1986, the television special Disney’s Captain EO Grand Opening premiered on NBC. It celebrated the new 3D musical attraction featuring Michael Jackson (which opened September 12, 1986), and featured Patrick Duffy and Justine Bateman as hosts. The special also featured performances by Belinda Carlisle, the Moody Blues, Robert Palmer, and Starship.

The special opens with a parade down Main Street before switching to the commentary by Bateman and Duffy, introducing many celebrities that were in attendance for the world premiere of Captain EO, including producer of the film George Lucas. The show then switches to a behind-the-scenes look of the film, along with an introduction of the characters in the film, including the villain played by Academy Award winning actress Anjelica Huston. The show also shows the complex choreography needed for the film, as it was a musical adventure experience.

September 15

September 15, 1997 – The Candy Cauldron Opens in Downtown Disney

“Satisfy your sweet tooth and watch as mouthwatering treats are made in our show kitchen at Disney Springs West Side.”

On September 15, 1997, the specialty store The Candy Cauldron opened in Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney area (now known as Disney Springs). Here, guests can purchase pre-made sweet treats while watching kitchen artisans create intricately designed candy apples and other treats in the show kitchen.