Happy 19th birthday, and Earth Day to Disney's Animal Kingdom! 

There are several Party for the Planet stops around DAK for Earth Day . Here you can choose an animal and have fun with photos!

​We picked the shark, let's give this a try!

There is also an Earth Day cupcake that you can find at a few locations today, including Starbucks.

​That's quite a large selfie stick, and they're all the way in the back of the park! I'm impressed they made it this far.

​Tiger shark?

​New lighting installed behind the Tree of Life

​Expedition Everest. 

​Dinosaur. 

Another Party for the Planet stop in Dino Land. 

Some Earth Day inspired products being sold around the park.

​Highly recommend going for a walk through the Tree of Life Garden for some amazing up close views of the incredible detail on it! 

​Some more fun with our new shark friend around DAK.

​Expedition Everest through the shark.

There is a nice view of kangaroos lounging if you walk through the Tree of Life Garden. 

Flower Shark 

Medal Shark 

​Happy birthday, DAK! Hope it's a wild one! 

As you can see, it was a pretty busy day (this was taken at around 1:00pm). 

Seriously, if you can get away on a weekday to visit the park the next 4-5 weeks do it. 

They've finally added some signs to keep people off of the bus route, that they weren't paying attention to. 

Moving inside the park, they are still working on Justice League (obviously). 

Most of the work is probably going on inside right now. At least one would hope. 

Most of the remodeled food locations have opened and look great. 

Apparently we missed the re-paint of Studio 6F and Gold Rusher's station that took place a couple of months ago. Oops. 

The new entrance for Tidal Wave is done, going to be interesting how the route the line and if they make one long switch back in the old queue. 

(still think this is more work than just making some new DC signs, but we aren't in the theme park business) 

A look at the rest of Metropolis, Apparently Riddlers got pressure-washed last week so painting should be starting soon, if it hasn't already. 

No work yet on JB's, but new tables are there. 

Moving on to Apocalypse, the last word we got from the park was they were hoping the ride would reopen on Easter Weekend. Obviously that didn't happen so we're hoping they decided to re-track more of the ride. Originally it was only supposed to be a couple hundred feet of track. 

It does appear some work is going on here at the final turn around. 

And it definitely looks like some work has been done to the first turn around and drop. 

Alright, that's going to wrap it up for this update, we hope you enjoyed. 

We've been asked a couple of times when Justice League is going to open, we have no clue. At this point our best guess would be sometime in June (probably when we're in Texas for CoasterCon lol). 

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​Universal City, California, April 20, 2017 – Ron Meyer, Vice Chairman, NBCUniversal; Academy®, Emmy, Golden Globe and BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Steven Spielberg; Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Jordan Peele (Get Out); Emmy Award-nominated filmmaker Will Packer (Straight Outta Compton); Academy Award®-nominated and Emmy Award-winning producer Jason Blum (Get Out); and Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood, celebrated the grand opening of Universal CityWalk’s multi-million dollar AMC Theatre renovation to create an all-new state-of-the-art Universal Cinema. 
​
With its proximity to the Universal Studios’ production lot and filming locations for many blockbuster movies, these award-winning filmmakers helped call “action” and shine a spotlight on the Universal Cinema as the place to “see movies where movies are made.”

“The new Universal Cinema is a spectacular place to enjoy blockbuster films and we’re thrilled to have such acclaimed filmmakers join us to commemorate the occasion,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO, Universal Studios Hollywood. “As The Entertainment Capital of L.A., we’ve entertained guests for generations, taking them behind-the-scenes of movie-making and placing them in the heart of the action with our incredible attractions, so it’s only fitting that we create the ultimate movie-going experience giving fans access to a movie theatre where they watch films in Hollywood screening rooms the same way filmmakers do.”

Universal Cinema’s top-to-bottom makeover coincides with Universal Studios Hollywood’s ambitious epic transformation to reimagine the world-class entertainment destination.

For film buffs, Universal CityWalk has long been the epicenter for fans seeking an environment that matches the excitement of their favorite blockbuster movies. Delivering modern, high-tech elegance and chic sophistication, the renovation of the split-level movie theatre offers a stylish and inviting place that captures the spirt of the glamourous movie studio—complete with screening room quality theatres and ultra-plush reclining seats.

The Director’s Lounge Cocktail Bar—an all-new upscale and stylish second-level retreat, flanked by the upper level theatres—adds a charismatic new dimension to the space for casual pre- and post- movie-going fun.  Beverages served at the lounge can also be taken into the second level theatres.

Each redesigned theatre has been fully upgraded with the most technologically advanced sight and sound achievements. The Universal Cinema represents the first multiplex in the United States to incorporate Christie laser projection, Christie Vive audio sound system and Dolby ATMOS with recliner seating to deliver maximum-impact movie presentations in 18 auditoriums. The installation of new state-of-the art screens, perforated to enable 360 degree audio, complement the overall enhancements.

The recent upgrade to the IMAX theatre features IMAX’s next-generation 4K laser projection and 12-channel sound systems designed to enhance the entire movie-going experience and provide an audience with sharper, brighter, clearer and more vivid digital images than ever.

A departure from traditional movie concession stands, the completely redesigned AMC Marketplace offers movie-goers a contemporary grab-n-go, self-service experience, featuring a delectable new take on concession favorites, including specialty popcorn, gourmet foods, real fruit smoothies, café style coffees and a Coca-Cola Freestyle self-service touch screen soda fountain featuring 165 different Coca-Cola drink products. 

A box office and guest services concierge is now located inside the venue, with convenient automated box office kiosks situated adjacent to the venue by the “5 Towers” outdoor concert stage. Additionally, movie-goers can enjoy $5 Movie General Parking with the purchase of a movie ticket. 

Since 1993, CityWalk has boosted the city’s rhythm through a foundation built on providing memorable entertainment experiences.  With a series of dramatic enhancements currently underway from the introduction of new dining experiences such as the recently opened Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Voodoo Doughnut, and LudoBird, shopping experiences and visually aesthetic design features, CityWalk continues to resonate as one of L.A.’s most influential lifestyle centers.

More information on CityWalk is available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com. Regular updates can also be found on CityWalk’s Twitter @CityWalkLA,Facebook-Universal CityWalk Hollywood and Instagram @CityWalkLA.

Universal Studios Hollywood™ is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter TM” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster, as well the all-new “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction.  Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM”. The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s flagship attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television studio where they can also experience such authentic and immersive thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”  The destination also features the Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex, including the Universal CityWalk Cinemas and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue.

Day One kicked off with an EPIC 40 years of Star Wars panel which had some hilarious moments, some classic moments, cast from all era's of the Star Wars Saga and of course a touching tribute to our Princess. 

Unfortunately Day One also had some issues in the morning with lines but thankfully they had them all handled by Day Two. We didn't get a chance to see any panels on Day One, but had an epic day exploring Celebration and of course with the awesome fans. 

Speaking of epic moments, #GarthVader pretty much took Star Wars Celebration by storm, Cosplay In America picked up on our picture, found the person behind Garth Vader and here is his story. 

My buddy and I have done Wayne & Garth a few times for Halloween and some special events. I went to Star Wars Celebration in 2012 (Orlando) not in costume. I was a big fan of the cosplay mash ups! Got tickets for SWCO 2017- originally did not think about doing a costume - but then it came to me. I have Garth - just need to add Vader = Garth Vader.
I already have a great Garth Algar costume. Original thought was to get a movie quality Darth Vader suit. That didn't pan out. Plan B - What would the real Garth get for Darth costume at Halloween? So, I ordered a Deluxe Darth Vader costume from Rubies - and tossed the helmet mask. Had to order some good Vader gloves and a decent red light saber. The shoes are Star Wars Skechers - Darth Vader checkerboard.
Non stop looks, comments, and photos - from the first moment to the last.
In the lines to get in, lines to meet celebs, I think it helped keep people from thinking about the lines. I visited the 501st room - took tons of photos - great sets and props! It was so crazy, every where I went, non stop. Right up to the end of the day. We were trying to leave, getting stopped by people everywhere to take photos. My friend Greg said, "I bet 1000 people took you photo today!"
Many people (attendees, exhibitors, and crew) made positive comments all day. That made me feel great and it didn't matter that my Vader was not movie quality. One guy stopped me for photo and told me he has been to many SWC, and my Garth Vader was the best thing had ever seen. I was actually blown away by that!
There was a guy walking with this daughter. He saw me and did a double take. He asked for a photo, then had me pose with his daughter (maybe 7 years old). She had long blond hair and glasses, like Garth Algar. She told me her dad calls her little Garth - so cute! Got a big high five from her.
The best reactions were from Mark Hamill & Hayden Christensen. They both had the biggest smiles and laughed when I asked them, "Have you seen Obi Wayne Kanobi?" Mark said to me, in all the years of Star Wars Celebration he never met Garth Vader.

Day Two once again saw huge crowds but the lines were much better managed and everybody was super excited for The Last Jedi panel. We again didn't quite get into the panel (it seemed for this celebration you pretty much had to camp out to get into any of them) but they did show the panel and trailer on the main show floor which was awesome. 

Day Two also had some more amazing Cosplay on the show floor and some shopping in the Celebration store where Renée likely broke at least one Credit Card. =) 

Unfortunately we didn't have anybody who could attend on Day 3 but that doesn't mean we weren't keeping an eye on all things going on at Celebration. The biggest thing, for us at least was the release of the Star Wars Battlefront II trailer. 

Gregg: I'll be the first to admit I'm a HUGE fan of the first Battlefront although I definitely see why people have issues with it. There's no story mode and some of the game modes **cough**Fighter Squadron**cough** are used WAY too much in the expansion levels. But even with that I totally love the game. 
That said, after seeing the trailer below I'm super excited for Battlefront II. Not only is there a Story mode, but it's told from the perspective on The Empire after the events of Return of the Jedi, which is AMAZING. Plus it's got the multiplayer mode included. We can't wait to get our hands on this in November. 

In addition to that awesome trailer, we also got a look at the 4th and final season of Star Wars Rebels. Seriously, if you aren't watching this show you really need to. The writing is excellent, the characters are fascinating and it's definitely not just a "Star Wars Cartoon". 

We found ourselves back at Celebration on day four. For anybody who's ever done all four days of any convention you know that by the last day everybody is exhausted, needs to get their last minute shopping in but that's when you also find it easiest to get some amazing pictures, especially when the last day falls on a holiday. And that's just what happened. 

Some awesome pictures from Morgan of the Sunday fun at Celebration. 

I think for us, as "older" fans of Star Wars, seeing younger people get into the series now is amazing. Some awesome Cosplay here. 

So that's going to wrap it up for our Star Wars Celebration Orlando coverage. A HUGE thanks to Renee and Morgan for putting this all together, it was amazing to be able to follow along. 

We hope you all enjoyed. May the force be with you ... 

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Welcome to a beautiful (and quite crowded) Six Flags Great America 

Because it was so crowded we just did a lap around the park, enjoyed the beautiful weather and of course checked out Joker progress. 

Trains are being loaded which means testing should be starting soon. 

The Joker sign 

And because RD, and the Whizzer is awesome ... 

Thanks for reading, now that the park is open we should be having some more updates soon. 

​If you enjoyed this update please share with your friends and make sure you "like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

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zWritten by Renée ​Girard
Click any of the pictures below for a larger version
​
Over the next few days we'll be bringing you all the news and fun from Star Wars Celebration Orlando. Keep track of the goings on here and on our social media. 

Day Two - Friday April 14

Joining the Dark Side this morning with my dark roast @Wawa coffee to get me started on day 2 

​I have to say that even with the west lot full, parking in north/south lots at @OCCC with the free shuttles has been super easy.

​It's amazing how the line situation has changed since yesterday. Today it is light years better! 

​Current wristband availablity.

I​t's kind of unclear which line is which.

​Finally found the right line to get to the show floor. Getting inside @OCCC was much better than yesterday but indoor lines are worse today

​At least we're seeing some awesome cosplay while in line. 

​Giant Ewok! 

​The aftermath of the overnight queue.

Well we didn't get into the Last Jedi panel but they'll be showing it on a screen on the show floor. 

In case you live under a rock, here is the first teaser trailer for The Last Jedi. 

After you watch it, watch it again with headphones, there are so many amazing audio cues in this trailer, which probably tells more of what's coming than the visuals do. Trust us. 

Also, some stills from the trailer courtesy of LucasFilm. 

And seriously, does it get any better than this poster? 

Scott also created a couple of phone wallpapers of the poster, feel free to download them. 

​I did score a Lightspeed Lane pass for the store later.

​Josh Gad is hosting the Last Jedi panel.

​Rian Johnson talking about Carrie Fisher.

​Daisy Ridley takes the stage at #TheLastJedi panel. 

​The show floor is packed with fans watching #TheLastJedi panel. 

​BB8 has joined the others on stage.

​John Boyega is here too! 

​Kelly Marie Tran will play a new character in #TheLastJedi . 

​The one and only Mark Hamill! 

​Mark Hamill in #TheLastJedi . 

​The Last Jedi trailer! It looks amazing! Seeing it in a room full of fans watching it for the first time was epic.

​Great Disney storm trooper with Mickey ice cream!

​Some more cosplay on the show floor. 

​Missed out on the Jabba tiki set yet again. 

​Getting the Hallmark Popminded exclusives. Blue Snaggletooth sold out already, only 250 per day. 

​This kid is expressing how all of us are feeling here today.

​Death Star Christmas tree topper that lights up and plays music. Awesome! 

​Cantina band, and they actually play their own instruments.

​Lines for the Funko exclusives are long and they're nearly sold out! 

​Current wait time for the #StarWarsCelebration store!

​Good thing I got a ticket this morning. Lightspeed! 

​Some of the shirts available at the Celebration store. 

​And more shirts.

​Plush and things. 

​Patches and magnet. 

​Death Trooper costume hoodie. Pants optional.

​Lots of room to walk around in the store. 

​Really cool set of pint glasses. 

​The Last Jedi shirts appear to among one of the most popular items. 

​Also inside the store is Salacious Crumb's Bakeshop. All but one variety is sold out for today. 

​Of course I had to get one of the cupcakes.

​Storm Troopers need vacations too.

​Really creative Disney/Star Wars cosplay.

​These guys were taking photos forever! Great job! 

​Droid racing was a lot of fun to watch. 

​Lego storm trooper! 

I never get tired of awesomely creative cosplay!

​Muppets, yes!!

​Droid parade going through the show floor.

​I caught the Running of the Hoods at #SWCO . Hilarious! 

So some back story on this courtesy of Wookieepedia, this is apparently in tribute to Willrow Hood, a background character in The Empire Strikes Back and is a Star Wars Celebration tradition. 

​Too funny when this Slave Leia met another one.  (What is the dude Slave Leia looking at? Lol) 

​The variety of cosplay is amazing. You'll see a little bit of everything here. 

​A very popular photo op spot throughout the Celebration.

​When it comes to sleeping during #StarWarsCelebration , sometimes you just need a quick nap on the sidewalk. 

​And so ends our day 2 coverage of #StarWarsCelebration . We'll be taking a break tomorrow but should be back for the final day.