Resort Updates – July 2021

I truly cannot believe it’s already August. This summer is just racing by – and Disneyland is chugging along fairly quietly, without much drama or major construction. Still, there are a few things in the works at the resort, so let’s take a look back at July at the happiest place on earth.

JUNGLE CRUISE PREMIERE TAKES OVER THE PARK

It seems only fitting that a movie based on an attraction have its premiere at a park. And what better park than the home to the original Jungle Cruise? Before the premiere party, stars Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt stopped by Downtown Disney, where The Rock’s tequila brand parked a food truck.

 Source: @thecalibae

Then, it was party time. The stars arrived in the only acceptable fashion: aboard a Jungle Cruise boat.

 Source: @rachmeetsworld

After arriving, the party moved across the park to Fantasyland, with the screening taking place in the Fantasyland Theater. If you missed the live stream of the event (sorry, actual movie not included!), you can watch the replay here.

 Source: Disney Parks

Jungle Cruise is now available in theaters and on Disney+!

 Source: Disney Parks

FESTIVITIES ON THE 4TH…AND A POWER OUTAGE

Who else could kick off the 4th of July but Sam Eagle? Here his message from Main Street USA:

A salute to Sam Eagle! Our patriotic compatriot stopped by @DisneyParks TikTok to show how he’s celebrating his favorite day of the year at @Disneyland Resort. Happy #FourthOfJuly! pic.twitter.com/yV28soAg2Z

— The Muppets (@TheMuppets) July 4, 2021

In addition to Sam’s celebration, this month also marked the return of Disneyland’s daily flag retreat ceremony. This short ceremony is worth stopping to watch; it’s a really nice moment toward the end of the day with a little bit of pomp and circumstance.

 Source: MouseInfo

And finally, the 4th did bring a hiccup: a power outage! Most of Pixar Pier, Cars Land, Frontierland, Adventureland, and New Orleans Square went down in the afternoon, though the park appeared to be back to normal operation before the end of the night.

CAST MEMBER APPRECIATION WEEK

Every July, Disneyland celebrates cast member appreciation week, with festivities like canoe races and riding attractions when guests are not in the park. One of the most popular events every year is the rubber duck race!

 Source: Disney Parks Blog

Cast members each decorate a $5 rubber duck and set them loose in It’s A Small World. The duck that completes the ride circuit first is declared the winner – and all proceeds from duck sales go to Orange County Goodwill. This year’s winner was an Ahsoka (from Star Wars: The Clone Wars) duck, decorated by Ruth, a merchandise host. Congrats Ruth!

 Source: Disney Parks Blog

OTHER UPDATES

This month, Disneyland officially announced this year’s Halloween offerings, including the return of Oogie Boogie Bash! For more information about the lineup, check out my previous post here.

The Disneyland Hotel has officially reopened! Guests can now book a stay, explore the grounds, and of course, Trader Sam’s is back in business.

If you visit California Adventure this summer, keep your eyes out for a limited-time Luca photo op. You’ll be able to pose in Luca’s home town with Machiavelli, the angry cat that has quickly become a fan favorite. The photo op is currently in Paradise Gardens Park – no word on how long it will be there.

On July 19, Disney marked its first official Dole Whip Day. Check out the Tropical Hideaway or Tangaroa Terrace for a new selection of Dole Whip flavors, including swirls (and rum varieties at the terrace!).

We finally have a vague opening date for the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage – winter! With walls currently up around the lagoon, I’m guessing there will be some new enhancements or at least a nice refresh to the longstanding attraction.

And finally, in accordance with updated CDC guidelines, Disneyland has once again modified its mask policy. As of July 30, masks must be worn indoors (including on attractions), but can be removed outdoors or while dining.

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