Thor arrives at Disneyland as Halloween Time comes to an end

Disneyland Annual Passholders were treated to a sneak peek of the new Thor: The Dark World movie over the weekend along with a preview of the new Thor: Treasures of Asgard experience inside Tomrorowland’s Innoventions. The new Thor exhibit showcases movie props and gives guests the opportunity to meet Thor himself. Meanwhile, Halloween might not be until Thursday, but Disneyland’s huge holiday season is quickly approaching and signs of the season are popping up everywhere in both parks. In addition to the traditional holiday offerings, Disneyland’s classic Jungle Cruise will get the holiday treatment with a new Christmas overlay, renaming the ride the “Jingle Cruise” for the holiday season.

Don’t miss your weekly Disneyland Resort crowd forecast — provided by our friends at MouseAddict — in the Weekly News and Information Roundup at the end of today’s update!

Note, October 29, 2013: We’ve corrected a couple of incorrect dates (holiday start date, “Captain America” release) that ran in this column when it was first published on Monday, October 28.

Get a closer look at today’s update!
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We’ve got another big update for you this week, so let’s get started!

Welcome to Disneyland!

The final week of Halloween Time is now underway. Your last chance to enjoy the full line-up of Halloween Time offerings will be this Thursday, October 31.

The final chance to see things like the Big Thunder Ranch pumpkin carvers is also on Thursday. Big Thunder Ranch closes Friday to make way for the upcoming holiday overlay.

Christmas Countdown

At the end of Main Street, Sleeping Beauty Castle is now covered in snow as it prepares for the upcoming holiday season, which is set to officially begin Tuesday, November 12.

Guests visiting this week will see a lot of overlap between seasons, with Halloween Time still going on around the park as the holidays really start to move in.

Some snow is still not yet in place…

Lots of power is needed to make this overlay work.

The big news last week was Disney’s back on October 16.

The new Jingle Cruise overlay debuts November 12. Below is Disney’s official description of the new holiday offering:

In this new seasonal storyline of the attraction, the Skippers have grown homesick for the holidays, so they‚Äôve added holiday cheer to the Jungle Cruise queue and boathouse with decorations that have been mailed to them from home (plus a few they’ve created themselves). The Skippers have also added a slew of new jokes to their tours that are the perfect way to get guests in the holiday spirit. Additionally, Jungle Cruise boats have been renamed with the holidays in mind, and if guests listen carefully, they may hear a holiday-themed radio broadcast playing in the background.

Meanwhile, New Orleans Square is also getting its first holiday decorations, with string lights going up as well as festive bunting.

The tree near the entrance to the French Market has its oversized moon-and-stars ornaments up already.

And back in Fantasyland, “it’s a small world” is now closed and drained while its major holiday overlay is installed.

Lightbulbs are now in most of the string lights along the facade.

Over at Disney California Adventure, no big holiday additions are up yet on Buena Vista Street. Holiday changes should start getting underway soon, such as the removal of these trees to make way for the Buena Vista Street Christmas tree.

Over in A Bug’s Land, we showed you the start of the holiday decorations here last week…

And now the giant ornaments are in place

In Cars Land, the star is now in place atop the Leaning Tower of Tires at Luigi’s.

Additional new offerings this season include the new World of Color: Winter Dreams show, which will include a new “Toy Story Nutcracker” segment which includes reworked and new animation from Pixar. Disney released a video about this last week:

And last year. This year, the ice rink opens November 14 and will be themed as “Olaf’s Frozen Ice Rink” in promotion of Disney’s upcoming animated film “Frozen.” Below, a file photo of last year’s ice rink

THORmorrowland

Over the weekend (and today), Annual Passholders were treated to a preview of the new Thor: The Dark World film as well as a sneak peek of the new Thor: Treasures of Asgard experience inside Innoventions. The new offering officially opens to the public November 1.

The new “Treasures of Asgard” amounts to what is essentially a movie prop exhibit and a meet-and-greet with the new Thor face character.

Some low-budget grahpics act as a marquee for the new Innoventions exhibit.

The queue for the meet-and-greet, which is housed inside the big blue box winds through display cases housing movie prop replicas.

Inside, more props are on display

…and then guests are transported to Asgard to meet Thor himself.

Next to the new Thor exhibit, the Iron Man Tech display is still here. Originally expected to close by the end of summer, the exhibit’s run has been extended indefinitely. With the increased popularity Innoventions has had with the introduction of Marvel, it’s unlikely Iron Man will go away anytime soon.

Could a Captain America meet-and-greet be coming to Innoventions next? “Captain America: The Winter Solider” hits theaters in April and Cap already meets guests in an Avengers-themed meet-and-greet on the Disney Magic cruise ship – it would make sense for Disney to bring the character to Disneyland to continue the Marvel trend in Innoventions.

Refurbishment Round-Up

Back on Main Street, the Candy Palace and Penny Arcade refurbishment is on-going.

In Fantasyland, King Arthur Carousel is still closed during refurbishment.

Not far away, the signage for the Rapunzel meet-and-greet has been removed and the space is now closed as it gets ready for the upcoming “Frozen” meet-and-greet.

But nearby, the Mad Tea Party has reopened and looks great after getting some fresh paint and other TLC.

In Frontierland, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is now testing trains on the track as it continues its major refurbishment which was originally expected to be finished by the end of this week but is now extended through February 2014.

In New Orleans Square, some scaffolding and scrims have gone up on the roof of the French Market.

Could this be related to the Club 33 expansion that will take over the second level of the French Market building for the Club’s new Jazz Lounge-themed expansion?

On the backside of the French Market, walls are still up

And of course, the Court of Angels and L’Ornament Magique are now permanently closed from the general public for Club 33 expansion.

Over at California Adventure, the meet-and-greet gazebo on Paradise Pier has reopened after refurbishment.

And the grass at the Cozy Cone Motel was recently replaced with fake grass, which is interesting.

It doesn’t stand out too bad, but once you notice it, it’s hard to miss.

Hopefully its just temporary until new sod comes in.

Safe-D Land

In Disneyland, over at Fantasy Faire, the temporary shrubs have finally been removed after the installation of new safety railing next to the waterway the runs along the path that connects Fantasy Faire with Frontierland.

The railing that has been up along the Frontierland portion of the walkway received new netting. They really don’t want you or any little ones trying to get anywhere near that water!

In Fantasyland, work is done atop Snow White’s Scary Adventures with new handrails installed along the existing handrails on the short staircase on the top of the facade.

It’s hard to see, but there’s new metal handrails added to the stairs.

This new turret above Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is all finished

Four layers of Castle walls over near Alice in Wonderland. Can’t be too safe!

A look at the new awning going in at the Monorail track over the old Motorboat Lagoon

And no changes yet on new safety work going in at Space Mountain and atop the Starcade/Star Trader complex.

Limited Time Magic

[center]Celebrate Oktoberfest at Bayside Brews
in Disney California Adventure[/center]
You can still enjoy the Oktoberfest offerings until Thursday at California Adventure. Details:

Celebrate Oktoberfest in style at the Disneyland Resort, courtesy of a little Limited Time Magic! For 2 weeks, you’re invited to don your finest lederhosen and join the fun at Disney California Adventure Park where Bayside Brews is kicking off the festivities with a special menu. From best to ‘wurst, savor the flavors from a host of special offerings, including bratwurst sausage, served in a Boursin-garlic brioche with hickory-smoked bacon and sauerkraut, and accompanied by potato chips or apple slices; a Bavarian Pretzel with your choice of mustard; and gingerbread bundt cake. Plus, be sure to top off your stein with a tasty Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Beer or Hofbrau Munchen Beer.

[center]Sway to the “Tombs” of the Cadaver Dans
in Disneyland Park
October 28 – November 3, 2013[/center]
This week you can celebrate the end of Halloween Time with a performance of the Cadaver Dans from the balcony of the Haunted Mansion. Below is Disney’s blurb on the entertainment offering.

Dig up a frighteningly fun time during Halloween week at Disneyland Park where as part of Limited Time Magic, you can uncover the most popular barbershop quartet from beyond the grave‚Äîthe Cadaver Dans! This fearsome foursome is taking a break from pushing up daisies to harmonize on a ghoulish medley of familiar “tombs.” Come tap your toes‚Äîand maybe your pulse too‚Äîas the Cadaver Dans entertain grim, grinning ghosts and Guests alike, outside of the Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square. But catch a sighting while you can‚Äîthey’re only appearing in daylight for a limited time, before they return from whence they came!

[center]Begin the New Year Glowing with the Show
at Disneyland Resort
Starting October 21, 2013 while supplies last[/center]
Starting this week you can get a free set of stickers to celebrate the new year when you buy a pair of Glow with the Show ears.

Celebrate a magical transition from this year to next with a vibrant set of vinyl ear clings for your Glow with the Show Ears! As part of Limited Time Magic, head to the Disneyland Resort where you can find all-new Ear Hat accoutrements – a special gift with the purchase of a pair of Glow with the Show Ears. Each comes complete with 2 sets of stickers, one giving a “bon voyage” to 2013, while the other welcomes 2014 with open arms. You won’t want to miss this magical chance to enhance your light-up experience like never before‚Äö√Ñ√Æwhether you’re watching along as part of the show or ringing in the New Year elsewhere in the Disney Parks!

[center]Thor: The Dark World Screening
and Thor: Treasures of Asgard Experience
A Limited Time Annual Passholder Magic Event
at Disneyland and Downtown Disney
Monday, October 28, 2013[/center]
Annual Passholders can attend an early screening of the new “Thor: The Dark World” movie and then preview the new Thor: Treasures of Asgard experience in Innoventions today.

Thor: Treasures of Asgard Experience

Prepare yourself for an otherworldly adventure as you’re treated to a special screening of Thor: The Dark World! This is your opportunity to catch the highly anticipated film before it opens in theaters everywhere on November 8, 2013.

Plus, in celebration of the film’s release, Passholders may also receive a special gift upon registering for the event! Please note that gifts may vary and will be available while supplies last.

Before the screening of Thor: The Dark World, Passholders will have access to an all-new experience where they can cross the “cosmic bridge” into Asgard‚Äîhome world of Thor, the Mighty Avenger.

Prepare for your visit first by learning about Asgard’s culture and history from the fascinating exhibit Thor: Treasures of Asgard. Then, enter the Bifrost and be transported to the throne room of Odin‚Äîruler of Asgard‚Äîwhere a familiar hero stands ready to greet you!

Date
Monday, October 28, 2013

Screening Time
4:00 PM, Movie is approximately 120 minutes.

Screening Location
AMC 12 Theatres in the Downtown Disney District

Exhibit Preview Dates & Times
October 28, 2013, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM—each registered Passholder will have a specified one-hour window to visit the experience during this time.

Event Details

• Passholders may register near the entrance to Innoventions in Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park upon park opening on one of the days of the event.
• Disneyland Park opens at 9:00 AM on October 26 ‚Äì 27, 2013, and 8:00 AM on October 28, 2013.
• With valid registration and wristband, each Passholder will be granted access to a one-hour window when they can visit the exhibit, and also access to the one (1) movie screening occurring the same day. Registered Passholders with valid event wristbands will only be allowed into the exhibit and the screening on the day they registered for the event.
• Registration and distribution of event wristbands will continue while event wristband supplies last. Space is limited to approximately 500 Passholders each event day.
• All participating Guests (3 years of age and older) must be valid Annual Passholders on the day of the event.
• Children under 3 years of age may attend the event as long as space is available and they receive an event wristband during the registration process.
• Please note that the film’s rating is PG-13, so there may be material in the film that may not be suitable for children under the age of 13.
• Registration must be completed in person at the entrance to Innoventions in Disneyland Park on the day of the event only; no phone reservations or other registration will be accepted.
• It is recommended that all members of your party register together to help ensure that everyone receives an event wristband.
• All participating Annual Passholders must present their valid Annual Passport to the event Cast Member, who will check event availability. Photo ID may be required.

More information

This and That

In Downtown Disney, the construction on the new Starbucks location continues to move along slowly…

Some construction walls up…

And over at the WonderGround Gallery, some character maquettes and costumes are on display from the hit “The Lion King” musical, which is back in Los Angeles for a limited run. I love the idea of displaying costumes and art from the show here, but the costumes and character moquettes are on display in such a way that your best view is looking through a window from outside the store. Not exactly ideal.

Some art prints and merchandise from the show is available in WonderGround.

Dateline Disneyland is sponsored by our good friends at the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel & Water Playground. A short walk from the park, HoJo Anaheim is conveniently located next to Matterhorn Mountain at Disneyland with nearby dining, freeway access, FREE parking and FREE Wi-Fi. For more information on HoJo Anaheim, room rates, or to book your stay today, visit HoJoAnaheim.com/MiceChat MiceChat.com and Annual Passholder Discounts Available Every Day! The HoJo Anaheim is now offering deeper discounts for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders! On select nights, Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders can get rooms for as low as $59 per night, plus tax. For more information visit the HoJo Anaheim Innsider Boards which features an up-to-date listing of available nights, or call (714) 776-6120 and ask for In-House Reservations to book. If your date isn’t listed, the HoJo Anaheim still offers rooms for 20% off their best available rate if you call (714) 776-6120.

Weekly News & Information Round-Up
Weekly Theme Park Hours October 28 – November 3, 2013
[B]Disneyland Park[/B]	[B]California Adventure[/B]
Monday: 8 am – 6 pm Tuesday: 10 am – 8 pm Wed.-Thurs.: 8 am – 6 pm Fri.-Sun.: 9 am – 12 am	Monday: 8 am – 8 pm Tuesday: 10 am – 8 pm Wed.-Thurs.: 8 am – 8 pm Fri.-Sun.: 9 am – 10 pm
[CENTER]For a complete listing of theme park hours, visit the Disneyland.com Theme Park Calendar[/CENTER]
[center]Closure and Refurbishment Schedule[/center]
[b][center]Disneyland Park[/center][/b]
[b]Big Thunder Mountain Railroad:[/b] Closed for extensive refurbishment through February 2014. [B]King Arthur Carrousel:[/B] Closed through November 4 for refurbishment. [B]”it’s a small world”:[/B] Closed through November 7 to install holiday overlay. [B]Dumbo the Flying Elephant:[/B] Closed October 28-November 14 for refurbishment. [B]Big Thunder Ranch:[/B] Closed November 1-7 for refurbishment. [B]Space Mountain:[/B] Closed November 4 to remove Halloween overlay. [B]Storybook Land Canal Boats:[/B] Closed December 2-12 for refurbishment. [B]Casey Jr. Circus Train:[/B] Closed December 2-12 for refurbishment. [B]Alice in Wonderland:[/B] Expected to close early 2014 to install permanent safety railing on outdoor ride portion.
[b][center]Disney California Adventure[/center][/b]
[B]Flik’s Flyers:[/B] Closed October 21-November 14 for refurbishment. [B]Radiator Springs Racers:[/B] Closed November 4-7 for refurbishment. [B]Disney Animation:[/B] Partially closed September 30-November 12 for refurbishment.
[b][center]Downtown Disney and Disneyland Resort Hotels[/center][/b]
Starbucks Coffee: New Starbucks store under construction in former BLINK by Wet Seal location. Opens this winter.
[center] A weekly look at projected crowd levels at the Disneyland Resort.[/center]
October 28 – November 3, 2013 MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN About This Week’s Estimates Our Addictometer™ crowd estimates are designed to give you an idea of how busy the resort feels. These estimates are an average for the day — levels will go both higher and lower during the day. Expect larger crowds than the average in the evenings. Believe it or not, our numbers show that this is off-season! Take advantage of it before the holiday crowds arrive in force in a few weeks. The last three Halloween Parties takes place Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday night. This will only have a minimal impact on the daytime crowds, but numbers will increase toward the late afternoon. This is the last week of Halloween Time, which ends Thursday. Things move quick these days, so there’s only one week before Holiday Time starts on November 8. Are you already a Mouseaddict? Your wait time submissions helped us with these projections. Thank you! Keep those submissions coming! Download the free Mouseaddict app for iPhone and iPad for current crowd estimates, crowd maps, and wait times along with 60 categories of searchable resort information and your favorite MiceChat blogs.
[center]Headline Roundup A quick look at noteworthy Disney theme park headlines from around the web.[/center]
Disneyland Resort VoluntEARS build fifth Orange County-area KaBOOM! Playground. (Disney Parks Blog)

OK – That does it for this week’s edition of Dateline Disneyland. Did you meet Thor this weekend? Are you excited for the upcoming Jingle Cruise holiday overlay? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below! We’re only here because of generous readers like you. Do you enjoy reading Dateline Disneyland every week? Consider helping us out by donating so we can pay the bills and keep the weekly updates coming! You can donate with a click of a button via PayPal, click here! For more Disneyland news, be sure to read MiceChat’s weekly In the Parks blog. And be sure to check out our sister blog, Dateline Disney World – a fantastic weekly photo blog covering Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida! Thanks for reading. See you at Disneyland! [B]- Andy[/B]

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FTC-Mandated Disclosure: Promotional consideration for this edition of Dateline Disneyland was provided by the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel & Water Playground.