Take note. Here’s exactly what to pack for Disney.
Spring break is coming. Warmer weather. Vacation. And like thousands of families, you’re starting to plan the trips you’re hoping to take. Disney is an iconic family vacation spot, of course, so if that’s where you’re headed, we’re here to help you plan. One of our own Tinybeans moms just got back from Disney World. Literally, just two weeks ago she was touring the park with her husband and two young kiddos (we saw the pictures!). So who better to ask exactly what we’re supposed to pack for Disney? In short, she knows. So we’re about to let you in on all the secrets, tips, and tricks.
These are the things we wouldn’t have thought of. We’re guessing you might not have either. Planning a Disney vacation is essentially like a full-time job all on its own. Things are bound to slip through the cracks. Using this list of goodies from a mom who knows as a basis, you won’t miss anything! In other words, consider us your fairy godmother of travel plans. Whether you’re finishing up your packing, or just starting, we promise this roundup of must-have products is going to help. So bippity-boppity-boo, we’ve done the work for you! Take out your checklist, Mouseketeers. Here’s exactly what you need to pack for Disney vacations!
The Family’s Packing List
Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Double Stroller
Supports children up to 50lbs per seat and meets Disney size requirements!
Order this and have it shipped to the hotel. We're serious. Because otherwise you'll spend $300.00 on bottled water over 5 days. We did it. Learn from us.
We seriously can't stress the comfort of these sneakers. Nothing compares. (If these aren't up your alley, we have a list of the best mom shoes right here!)
This is one of the best dry shampoos out there! It's also unlikely you'll want to wash your hair every day—you want to have as much time at the park as possible.
MILK MAKEUP Mini Hydro Grip Setting + Refreshing Spray
Keep your skin from getting parched in the sun (you're wearing sunscreen, though, right?) and refresh your complexion with this Setting + Refreshing Spray!
Normally, we wouldn't suggest disposable if it can be avoided, but when you're in the park, you can't do a load of laundry, and you'll likely eat more than once during the day. This way, your little one's clothes are protected and you don't have to stuff a dirty or wet bib back into the bag.
What if you could improve their reading during long flights and keep them entertained? Sneak in some educational screen time and you have Readability! Readability uses AI-interactive technology to keep kids engaged, allows you to track their progress through the platform, build vocabulary lists, and foster a lifelong love of reading!
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Support local businesses while ticking off your shopping list at these independent toy stores in Washington DC
No need to worry about shipping delays or supply chain strains when you can shop local and support businesses that give back to the communities they serve. Who doesn’t love a special gift from an extra-special store? These independent toy shops throughout Washington, DC and the surrounding suburbs have something for every kid (little to big) on your list, so you’ll be able to fill up the space under the tree with a well-curated selection of gifts.
Beautifully curated, sustainable, thoughtfully-designed children’s goods are always in stock at Three Littles. The shop, located in the Union Market district, is a place where families can find necessities and gifts. With an emphasis on items for babies through early elementary, the shop also features carefully chosen items for parents.
Serving DC since 1984, Fairy Godmother has an array of choices for kids from infant to teen and everything in between. Check out their collection of Steiff plush toys and collectables, as well as book-themed onesies for the literary lovers on your list. The store also offers craft and science kits as well as books, including some in Spanish. You'll feel as if your fairy godmother sent you here!
For a store with an emphasis on wooden toys and dolls you and your mom would recognize, Kinder Haus is a terrific place to shop. They sell Plan, Haba, Nilo, and RC2 wooden toys, Gund plush toys, and doll lines such as Corolle and Madame Alexander.
1220 N Fillmore St. Arlington, VA Online: kinderhaus.com
4. Doodlehopper
Let the delightful staff at Doodlehopper help you find the perfect gift for kiddos on your list, from infant to tween. At this Falls Church staple, you'll find a well-organized and carefully chosen selection of great toys, games, puzzles, and crafts.
This fun shop offers an extensive collection of toys for kids of all ages and a great arts and crafts section. Don't forget to check out their inventory of beloved miniature rubber figures—bring one home for each of your littles!
Insider Tip: Pop into Pastries by Randolph around the corner for a post-shopping coffee and Napoleon and bring home a box of tea cookies for the kids.
Enjoy classic toys alongside the newest releases available in a curated shop! They stock everything from Brio trains for your toddler to Exploding Kittens for your Tween and a huge variety in between.
Insider Tip: Try out the "Birthday Vault" with your little one. Simply visit the store two weeks before their birthday and help them fill the birthday basket with all of the items they're wishing for. When the basket is full, Go Bananas will write your child's name on it and secure it in their Birthday Vault. The "wishes" will be held on reserve for your child—or for friends and family in search of an approved gift—up until a day after their birthday party or birthday.
In Takoma Park, this shop specializes in toys with exceptional educational value for all ages. Owner Lisa Ripkin works with customers to find toys that best match their interests and can order specific products just for you if you can’t find what you’re looking for in store.
Insider Tip: Fair Day's Play partners with Art for the People, a non-profit that brings art to communities. Check out their website to find out about upcoming crafting events!
Anglo Dutch Pools and Toys was founded in 1985 as a mom-and-pop pool maintenance store, which quickly expanded into carrying pool toys. Before long, customers wanted "land" toys, too. Today, the business carries a huge variety of toys, games, books, and puzzles. True to their roots, they also have a wonderful selection of aquatic toys and swimming necessities like goggles and suits.
Aptly named, owner Michelle McNaughton has plenty of toys out for your kiddos to test-drive, which makes for a shopping experience that is so much more than basic browsing—you can really uncover the items your little ones will actually love. In fact, it's so interactive, you may have a hard time getting the kids to leave! With loads of unique, hard-to-find, and classic toys, the PLAYroom earns its moniker.
Insider Tip: Really having a hard time making an exit? Don't worry, you can tempt them with a horse cookie from The Upper Crust, an old fashioned bakery just around the corner.
This toy store opened its doors in 1956 when there was nowhere in Middleburg to buy children’s clothes or toys, The Fun Shop is chock-a-block with excellent toy and gift options. Their 6,000-square-feet of merchandise also has great gifts for the grown-ups on your list.
115 W. Washington St. Middleburg, VA Online: thefunshop.com
11. Dancing Bear Toys and Games
Founded with the goal of creating a happy place to spark inventive play and imagination, The Dancing Bear in Frederick is worth the drive, especially when you also visit its sister bookstore, The Curious Iguana. If you have the kids in tow, there is a little play area that keeps small hands busy.
Insider Tip: Walk up a block to N. Market St. and you'll find sweet teacher gifts at Perfect Truffle.
15 E. Patrick St. Frederick, MD Online: dbeartoys.com
12. Curious Iguana
For an independent bookstore with an incredible children's section, head around the corner to Dancing Bear's sister store, Curious Iguana.
Across Maryland and Virginia, the DMV’s best pumpkin patches have all the autumnal elements you need to celebrate fall with the family this year
If you’ve already decorated your home with fall everything, it’s time to pick out that perfect pumpkin that steals the show! Patches are mostly all open by now, so get ready for autumn fun in DC! From Montpelier Farms in Maryland to Wegmeyer Farms in Virginia, here are the DMV’s best pumpkin patches—all within an hour’s drive of Washington, DC—to visit this weekend. Happy pumpkin picking!
Sharp's at Waterford Farm This 530-acre working farm offers nine pumpkin-punctuated open house events in October. Admission includes a hayride, pumpkin picking and feeding the animals. On the Day In The Life Of a Farmer tour, kids 2-10 will learn about beekeeping and how crops are grown, feed goats, navigate a mini corn maze, and take a hayride.
Butler's Orchard Festival The Fairy Godmother may have turned a pumpkin into Cinderella’s carriage, but here pumpkins become fairytale characters who populate the orchard’s popular Pumpkinland. The farm also features hayrides. This farm often sells out, so purchasing your ticket online prior to arriving is recommended (bonus: you score a savings by buying in advance).
Homestead Farm Looking for something a little more straightforward? Skip the extracurriculars and head here for some simple pumpkin picking. On weekends through Halloween, the farm offers hayrides to the patch, where shoppers can take their time deciding on their favorite member of the cucurbitaceae family, to which pumpkins, squash and gourds belong.
Clark’s Elioak Farm Known for its Enchanted Forest, this petting zoo farm has hayrides, cow trains, pony rides and more. If your pint-sized princess loves Cinderella, this is the perfect place to take a stroll through fairy tales and castles and leave with a pumpkin of your own.
Montpelier Farms If you're looking for a pumpkin patch with all the bells and whistles, head here where admission includes corn mazes, hayrides, hill slides and an area for tikes 48 inches and smaller. Extra fees apply for duck races, pumpkin chunkin’ (yes, using slingshots!), and a scarecrow workshop. Stop at the pumpkin patch for an orange orb of fall goodness.
Fall Fun Festival at Gaver Farm Before you pick a pumpkin to schlep around, cover the 45-plus attractions such as the jumping pillow, a petting zoo, giant slides, mini mazes, duck races and photo centers. When the sun goes down, Fall Fun Nights get started with a Moonlight Corn Maze, campfires, and s’mores.
5501 Detrick Rd. Mount Airy, MD Online: gaverfarm.com
Larriland Farms Get into the spirit with ghost and goblin decorations at the farm, which offers 20-minute weekend hayrides through woods (please note: these no reservation tours are open to the public and do not include a stop in the pumpkin patch. If you would like to include a trip to the pumpkin patch, you must reserve a private hayride this year. You can also enjoy sunflower and apple picking on this farm!
Summers Farm This farm boasts over 45 family activities and attractions. Check out Summer’s 12-acre cornfield maze, slides, farmer golf, and pumpkin and apple cannons. Candy lovers take note: the pumpkin cannon blasts out wrapped goodies one day a weekend. Fireworks can be viewed on Saturdays from Sep. 30 - Oct. 30.
Shlagel Farms Put your thinking caps on for this one. Kids and adults alike can get a better sense of the path food takes from the farm to the table while also enjoying a wagon ride, petting zoo and, of course, the pumpkins.
Queen Anne Farm A tractor-pulled hay wagon will give your crew a ride to a pumpkin patch, which has squashes ranging in size from two ounces to more than 200 pounds. You can also make a free stop at the Insta-worthy Pumpkin House.
Fall Pumpkin Harvest Festival at Great Country Farms There’s a giant jumping pillow, slides and putt-putt. Take a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch and get picturesque views of the mountains. Don't forget to head back on weekends in November for Pumpkin Chunkin'.
Wegmeyer Farms You can choose from over 50 different varieties at this u-pick field in Hamilton. These pumpkins are grown with a no-till process, so these fields don't get muddy! There is plenty of space to socially distance while picking your pumpkin off a vine. Reservations are required.
Wayside Farm During the fall, the 120-acre working farm hosts pig races, pumpkin drops and a corn maze. In the patch you'll find gladiator, full moon, fairytale and Cinderella varieties.
Our world has changed a lot in recent years. Things parents only dreamed about having delivered to their doorstep just a few years ago are now a reality. Likewise Seattle families can now rent all kinds of stuff that makes life easier and a little less expensive. It kind of makes you wonder, why buy big ticket items if you’re only going to use them once in a while? Whether you’re looking for a private swimming pool to help you stay cool on Seattle’s hottest days, unicorns for parties, free museum passes or adorable sleepover supplies, our list of unique things to rent is here to help.
It might seem like a dream, but unicorns are real. Sort of. Whether you are looking for a guest star at your kid's next birthday party or are looking for a perfect model for a special photo portrait, there's a pony for you. Dreamland Ponies has a whole fleet of unicorns to choose from including solid white, rainbow, mini, pony, full-size and everything in between. They are available for hand-led pony rides at their home in Maple Valley or your home. They can bring the ponies to just about anywhere from a private residence to a local park. They will dress up the pony to fit your party theme from Pegasus to a western cowboy theme. And yes, they do offer "grown up" parties as well, but your kids will never forgive you (although, they don't have to know, right?)
According to Dreamland, all of their ponies are "super sweet, gentle, safe, sparkling clean and healthy." You may book up to a dozen different ponies at a time! The service providers also donate a portion of all pony party proceeds towards rescuing horses and ponies in need and other therapy services for children and seniors with chronic and terminal illnesses.
While it would be nice to own your own swimming pool, the investment might not be worth the actual splash time your family would use it. That's where swimply.com comes in. Their business model is similar to AirBnb but for pool owners and the people who would like to rent them. The website features hundreds of private pools available to rent right now, including a large handful in the Seattle area, like this one which charges a weekday rental fee of $63 an hour for up to 10 guests. Just like the homes and owners that offer them, each pool and setting is uniquely different. Some come with all of the bells and whistles (think: large patio with picnic tables, barbecues, playgrounds, pool toys, private bathrooms). Rentals range from $49-$149 per hour, and a few even allow up to as many as 40 guests during the rental. Sounds like a birthday party in the making.
Good to Know: You will need to reserve your spot ahead of time, but often arrangements can be made for the same day. Some pools will require you to rent it for more than one hour.
NetBricks was launched in 2015 with the goal of providing an exceptional LEGO-building experience to kids (or their parents, or both) who might not be able to afford every set they want. They are LEGO fanatics themselves, so they understand what LEGO-maniacs want. They have hundreds of LEGO sets of which to rent from on a subscription basis. Pick the set and they'll send them out to your family one set at a time. Start with one, build it, send it back and they'll send another one to your residence, just like the old Netflix movie rental model! ("It's a constant flow of fun" they say.) Or, go for the Pro Membership Experience where NetBricks will send multiple sets at one time and get another new batch 30 days later. And so on, and so on...
NetBricks offer sets that are new, hard to find or retired and range from "Junior" to "Master Builder Academy." Sets offered include the "The Simpson's" House (2523 pieces), "Star Wars" Death Star (3803 pieces), the famous Tower Bridge of London, England (4287 pieces) and many others.
Good to Know: NetBricks plans start at $24 a month (plus shipping) to $65 a month (including shipping).
Hosting that sleepover party at your place just got a whole lot easier because Daydream Teepee delivers everything you need to make it a smashing success. The centerpiece of this delivery service is the individual A-frame tents where kids will slumber (if you’re lucky). Each party package comes with expertly-styled set-up that includes airbeds, sheets (and liners), fairy lights, trays and all the color-coordinated banners and cushions needed to make the sleepover space Pinterest worthy. There are seven kids themes to choose from, each one as detailed as the next. And when it’s all over, the team comes back to whisk everything away, fairy-godmother style. It’s the dreamy rental you need for your next bash.
You know about Free First Thursdays and Free Last Fridays, but sometimes you want to check out your favorite Seattle museums on your terms. Make it happen through the Seattle Public Library, where you can reserve free passes to the Seattle Children’s Museum, The Museum of Flight, MOHAI, even the Woodland Park Zoo (and more!) with just a few clicks. Passes can be reserved up to 30 days in advance of your visit (passes go quickly so reserve them as early as possible), and each pass includes at least two admissions but many include up to four.
If you’re a King County Library cardholder, you can reserve passes through their system. This is a great spot to snag free passes to BAM, KidsQuest and the Seattle Aquarium, to name a few. Families can reserve up to two museum passes per month (with the exception of KidsQuest and BAM that only allow one every 90 days) and can sort by museum or date to make their plans.
We’re buzzing with excitement over this Seattle rental service—mason bees. When it comes to pollinating flowers and crops, they get the job done (at a rate 100 times that of honeybees), and you can help them do it by renting a mason bee kit to host in your yard. It’s as easy as hanging up your mason bee block, letting the bees do their pollinating thing and waiting for them to lay eggs in the block, that you then mail back. Those eggs are shipped to farmers around the country where they’re used to pollinate some of your favorite foods like blueberries, cherries and almonds.
The coolest part of this rental kit is the experience you give your kids. Mason bees are docile and non-aggressive, so stinging isn’t something you have to worry about. That means your kids can watch the bees work and lay their eggs, packing them with mud, mason-style. It’s a fascinating interactive experience that directly connects kids with the foods they eat and the eco-system around them. Just think how different those cherries, pears and blueberries will taste to them this summer!
Good to Know: Although Rent Mason Bees 2022 season is over, you can keep the 2023 season in mind. Pick up takes place in March and the kits get returned in June.
If you're itching to take the kids for a night in the great outdoors, but don’t know where to start when it comes to gear—no problem. Get everything you need for the perfect car camping or backpacking experience from Back 40 Outfitters. Simply choose your camping adventure and they’ll pack a kit that has the equipment you need to make it successful. Car camping kits ($270-$440) include your tent, sleeping bags, air mattresses, a kitchen kit, cooler and more. All you need to do is reserve the perfect campsite. Plus, with pick up/drop off locations in Kent and South Seattle, you can easily grab your stuff on the way out of town. Yep, it’s that easy.
Good to Know: You can add on extras like sunshades and pillows to make it that much easier. Just bring your crew and your sense of adventure.
Maybe you don’t get quite the right sun. Or your postage-stamp city yard won’t support the garden of your dreams. Whatever the reason, you crave fertile space where you and the kids can grow veggies, herbs and flowers. So why not rent some through the city’s P-Patch garden program? With 90 gardens throughout the city and over 3,000 plots, totaling 15-acres of grow-able land, you’re sure to find a garden spot that’s right for you. Can you dig it?
If you’re used to checking out books from your local library, get ready for something different. Seattle is home to five tool lending libraries that (you guessed it) lend tools to members for free or next to nothing. Like a library, tool libraries require a membership. Once you’ve joined, members have access to the library inventory where (between the five) you’ll find every tool you’ve ever needed and them some, including typical household tools, garden and automotive tools, even odds and ends like juicers and sewing machines. Memberships are free, but most suggest a donation between $20-$60 with flexibility, as each library is committed to making tools are accessible to all community members. Additionally, each library has different rental limits, but a week is pretty standard.
Good to Know: The West Seattle, Southeast Seattle and Capitol Hill tool libraries have workshop space members can use too. And many of these tool libraries host fix-it workshops where people can bring broken appliances, toys and clothes in need of mending in an effort the keep them out of the landfill and practice sustainability.
Now that your kids are avid readers, they’ll need bigger books to sink their teeth into. Enter: chapter books. With more developed characters and plots, these novels lend themselves to flights of fancy and often turn into series your kids can read for years to come.
Ema has always been different from her family, and it takes a trip to stay with her uncle in Prague to meet someone who finally sees her for who she is. Silvie is everything Ema needs until she goes missing. Can she follow the clue Silvie has left her to find her in time? Ages: 8-12
With a storyline that hits close to home, Gabe is learning to navigate a post-pandemic world. As he and the 20-ish other survivors carry on, they came across a girl they've never met who sparks joy in their tiny community. Who is she? Ages: 10-14
Young suspense enthusiasts will love this first book in a new series that's packed with suspense and drama. Agatha Christie-lover, Alice Ogilvie, has plenty of secrets of her own but the biggest mystery of Castle Cove is missing Brooke Donovan. Can our protagonist use her knowledge from her fave author to solve the question of what happened to Brooke? Written for mature audiences, this book is just as fun for moms and is the perfect beach read. Ages: 14+
Budding naturalist Algie Emsworth may love exploring, but his asthma is keeping him from living his best life. Set in the late 19th century, he's sent to a health resort where things aren't as they should be. Amidst the mysterious dead carcasses surrounding the property, Algie also comes face to face with a new species and forces who yearn to extinguish it. Ages: 8-12
The Wind in the Willows in 20 Minutes a Day: A Read-With-Me Book
Introduce readers to the classics with this intuitive "Read with Me" format that uses discussion questions and definitions to bring the story to life! In 20 minutes a day, kids will love digging into each story in a meaningful way that isn't overwhelming. Ages: 8-12
OG Mr. Lemoncello fans will love this origin story prequel. Readers will get the entire backstory on the everyone's favorite game maker, Luigi Lemoncello, and his rise to stardom. Ages: 8-12
Inspired by the hit documentary, "Life in the Doghouse," this series of chapter books brings real-life rescued pups to life. Perfect for puppy lovers, each book focuses on a wild and crazy dog who's found their furever home. Ages: 7-10
June, Maybelle and their mom have just lost their home and can't believe they've found themselves at Huey House, the local shelter. When June can't even bring her prized viola inside, she doesn't think their new accommodations will work. Then she meets Tyrell, a long-term resident. Together, they form a fast friendship that comes in handy when a new policy threatens to oust them from Huey House. Ages: 9-12
Zara and Zayd are excited when a new family moves in across the street, until Naomi seems to want to take over. Ever the neighborhood fun queen, Zara isn't so sure she wants to play by newcomer Naomi's rules. So she creates her own way for record-breaking fun: setting a Guinness World Record. Hena Khan's newest book is a fun read that moves fast and evokes tons of laughter. Ages: 7-10
The Einstein's are all living in the wake of tragedy when they move to Vista Point. As 11-year-old Zach settles into the new, small town with mysterious landmarks, he makes a new friend in Ann. But is Ann holding back secrets? Ben Guterson's story is deep, meaningful and poignant and an excellent read for young and old. Ages: 9+
The Fairy Godmother of Womanhood has finally paid Tahlia a visit––right before the famed upcoming class party. In addition to the zit adorning her chin, she just can't catch a break. Together with her friend Lily, Tahlia embarks on a journey to get to the party no matter what (oh yeah, and find some feminine protection) in this hilarious, coming-of-age story by Karina Evans. Ages: 9+
Willis has just finished third grade and he's ready to take the world––and the summer––by storm. Too bad his best friend won't be there like they planned. So instead, our main man decides he's found his calling as the new neighborhood life coach. Author Lindsey Leavitt's new book in the forthcoming series is the perfect summer read for youngsters, with plenty of laughable moments and tons of gumption. Ages: 8-12
It's always just been Bo and her mom living in the Bronx, but now, things are changing. The two of them are moving to Harlem to live with Bill, her mom's boyfriend and the rest of the "house family." Oh, and a wedding is on the horizon. Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich weaves a beautiful tale of change, Black girlhood and the comforting communities found within the colorful streets of a New York City summer.
Ages: 9+
An important story for young adults, Amina Luqman-Dawson's story on a slave's journey to freedom is told through various narrators. Homer and his sister Ada have only known slavery, which is all the more reason to leave the plantation behind. When they find themselves in a secret community, Freewater, they almost forget the horrors of their past. But Homer has an important decision to make when their lives once again become threatened. Can he make it back to his mother to free her, too? Ages: 10+
Hector is a troublemaker, but when he takes it too far, he's committed to turning his life around. When he pranks a homeless person and is seen by a classmate, Hector embarks on a journey of meaning as his story introduces readers to bullies and the problem of homelessness. Ages: 10+
Abby has a lot going on in life. Between her best friend moving away, her mom going back to work and being forced to join the running club, her life feels a bit chaotic. On top of everything, it's time for a BRA. Megan E. Bryant's coming of age novel is the first in a series that young readers and moms alike won't be able to put down. Ages: 9+
Will is devastated when his mom moves the family out of New York to East Emerson, a small town in the middle of nowhere. He's even more upset when he discovers the town is full of monsters. Yep, real-life zombies, minotaurs and mummies. When the pets in town start disappearing, Will has to team of up with his new friend Ivy and her brother Linus to figure out what's really going on, and if the monsters are to blame. Ages: 9+
Maizy has found herself in Last Chance, Minnesota for the first time. When she and her mom travel there to take care of her sick grandfather, she not only finds that her family are the only Asian Americans in town, but that her family's restaurant, the Golden Palace, has lots of secrets to unravel. Ages: 8-12
Lark has found herself on Swallowtail Island for the summer with her sister, stepdad and stepbrothers, along with a summer job helping to research a book. When she starts to uncover the mysteries of an unsolved boat crash, what results is a revelation involving murder and so much more. Michael D. Beil's first novel in the new series is intriguing for any mature reader who loves mysteries. Ages: 11+
Sofía comes from a family of dancers, but she just doesn't have the feet to become a professional like her parents. As a Cuban-American fifth grader, she's learning to navigate her own worldview, understand who she wants to be in life and what it means to be an immigrant family. Emma Otheguy's coming of age novel addresses racism and so much more that will keep young readers riveted. Ages: 9+
Fans of Zeta Elliott's acclaimed series continue the story with book number three. Jax is navigating all sorts of things: from his lessons as a witch's apprentice, his friends Kenny and Kavita and the biggest of all: a phoenix egg! Ages: 8-12
Cornbread and Poppy are best friends, but they're very different. Where Cornbread is ready to weather the winter, Poppy has just realized she is not prepared at all. In this three-chapter book, follow along as Caldecott Medalist Matthew Cordell takes the pair up Holler Mountain where they find a new friend. Ages: 6-8
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It’s been a few years since Disney’s famed Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique has taken reservations thanks to the pandemic, but the wait is almost over. The one-of-a-kind experience is getting ready to re-open its doors on August 25!
Reservations for the boutique are set to open up in early August, and once guests return, they will be able to embrace a more gender-neutral experience. Disney Parks have announced that the old “Fairy Godmothers in Training” will now be known as “Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices.”
The new moniker is a big step in making sure all cast members feel included and that everyone is welcome when it comes to dressing up and embracing the magic that Disney is known for. For the first time, men will be able to work at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique!
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a magical, one-of-a-kind Disney Parks experience that allows young Guests to transform into princesses and shining knights! https://t.co/E7L0A8rQqa
Until now, only female cast members could hold the title ‘Fairy Godmothers in Training.’
KTLA reports that “Disney had actually made a decision to switch over to the new titles in 2020, but the implementation was delayed when the boutiques were shuttered amid the pandemic. The new titles were chosen to allow cast members of any gender to feel accepted and welcome while working at the shops, according to the representative.”
If you aren’t familiar with the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, it’s a royal experience where young princes and princesses have the opportunity to get pampered. Kids can choose hairstyles, makeup and accessories to transform into the character of their dreams.
Apprentices at the boutique help young guests choose the services they want, and now they can do it in a more inclusive environment. Disney Parks have been updating their language for years to ensure all guests feel welcome, and this new change is a welcome addition for its cast members, too.
Emmy-winning actor Billy Porter is making his directorial debut with a film about a trans high school senior navigating friends, family, and new love.
Porter is best known for his work as Pray Tell on Pose and most recently as the fairy godmother in Amazon’s musical movie Cinderella. But he’s stepping behind the camera to put the spotlight on a “delightfully modern coming-of-age story” titled Anything’s Possible.
The official trailer shows trans senior Kelsa (Eva Reign), who is navigating her first boyfriend, Khal (Katy Keene actor Abubakr Ali), her family, and her final year of high school.
“When her classmate Khal gets a crush on her, he musters up the courage to ask her out, despite the drama he knows it could cause,” the trailer’s description reads. “What transpires is a romance that showcases the joy, tenderness, and pain of young love.”
“I ain’t Barbra Streisand yet,” Porter told Variety. “It’s like, let me do one thing at a time. Let me direct something first. Then I’ll direct something and be in it, too.”
He continued: “This is an aspirational story. It’s almost like a fairytale,” Porter says. “We know that. It’s a look at what we can be. That’s what we as artists get to do—look at what we can be and what we should be.”
For her part, the actress shared information about the film on Instagram, writing “Hey y’all, meet Kelsa. Check out these first-look images from #AnythingsPossible, the movie I’m starring in. I am so honored to help tell this story. There’s so much to say, but for now, I’ll just reiterate how excited I am for you all to see this beautiful story unfold!”
Talking with Them earlier this year, Reign said of the film, “It’s ironic: The movie’s called Anything’s Possible, but I didn’t believe it. My whole life, I’d wanted to be an actress, but even after I got that call I was telling myself, ‘I’m a Black trans girl—I’m not going to be the lead in a movie. That’s not feasible. I’ll be lucky to play someone’s friend.’”
Anything’s Possible will be available on Prime Video on July 22.
It’s been quite the journey from 2015 for Mal and King Ben, but the time has finally come for a royal wedding! The Descendants: The Royal Wedding is airing this Friday!
The summer special is a new take on the fan fave movie series––an animated show that has everyone heading back to Auradon with nearly the entire cast voicing the OG characters.
You’ll hear Dove Cameron as Mal, Sofia Carson as Evie, Booboo Stewart as Jay, Mitchell Hope as Ben, Sarah Jeffery as Audrey, Melanie Paxson as Fairy Godmother, China Anne McClain as Uma, Jedidiah Goodacre as Chad, Anna Cathcart as Dizzy, Dan Payne as Beast, Bobby Moynihan as Dude the Dog and Cheyenne Jackson as Hades.
Notably missing is the late Cameron Boyce who voiced Carlos. His absence will be acknowledged in the story and he will be honored in the telecast.
The Descendants: Royal Wedding will air on Fri. Aug. 13 immediately following the premiere of Disney Channel’s new film, SPIN, around 9:40 p.m.
As theaters slowly continue to reopen, studios are starting to release movies they’ve pushed back over the past year. That’s great news for fans of family movies because there are tons of awesome flicks to look forward to this summer and beyond. Plus, even if you’re not ready to go to a theater yet, there are also plenty of new movies to choose from on streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Keep reading to find out what’s in store for the rest of 2021.
What makes one of Disney’s most infamous villains just so villainous? And what’s with her obsession with dalmatians? Find out in Cruella, the origin story of Cruella de Vil, which is based in 1970’s London and features Emma Stone as the title character.
Directed by: Alex Timbers and Craig Gillespie Starring: Emma Stone, Joel Fry, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, Paul Walter Hauser, Emma Thompson Studio: Disney Opening on: May 28, 2021
Friendly dragons are having a moment, and we’re not mad about it! This movie follows Din, a college student who’s desperate to reconnect with his childhood best friend with help from a wish-granting dragon.
Directed by: Chris Appelhans Starring: John Cho, Jimmy Wong, Constance Wu, Jimmy O. Yang Studio: Netflix/Sony Opening on: June 11, 2021
Luca
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Follow along as an unusual friendship develops along the Italian Riviera between a local human and a sea monster in this new original movie from Pixar.
Directed by: Enrico Casarosa Starring: John Ratzenberger, Drake Bell Studio: Disney Pixar Opening on: June 18, 2021
Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway
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Everyone’s favorite talking rabbit will find himself in new surroundings in this sequel, having left the farm for the big city. You can bet the beloved rabbit will be knee-deep in mischief and will find some pretty hilarious ways to get out of trouble. The movie is currently slated to open in theaters, but given the uncertainty of Covid restrictions this, as well as the release date, can change.
Directed by: Will Gluck Starring: James Corden, Rose Byrne, Domhnall Gleeson, David Oyelowo, Elizabeth Debicki Studio: Sony Pictures Entertainment Opening on: June 18, 2021
LeBron James and Bugs Bunny star in this long-awaited sequel which puts LeBron and Company up against an evil A.I. basketball team. In order to get back home, they must win the game.
Directed by: Malcolm D. Lee Starring: LeBron James, Don Cheadle Studio: Warner Bros Opening on: July 16, 2021, with a simultaneous release on HBO Max
Cinderella
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This reimagining of the fairytale features Camila Cabello as Cinderella, Billy Porter as her genderless fairy Godmother, and Idina Menzel as the stepmother. With musical powerhouses like that, it’s sure to be a fantastic live-action version of the classic. Plus, James Corden is producing and starring as one of the famed mice, along with John Mulaney. Music, laughs and magic? Sign us up.
Directed by: Kay Cannon Starring: Camila Cabello, Billy Porter, Idina Menzel Studio: Sony Pictures Opening on: July 16, 2021
Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans
Executive producer Guillermo del Toro brings this popular trilogy to a close with Rise of the Titans. The heroes are back for another epic adventure in Arcadia. Your favorite characters are reunited on a quest to control the magic that connects them.
Directed by: Johane Matte, Francisco Ruiz-Velasco, Andrew L. Schmidt Starring: Nick Frost, Nick Offerman, Diego Luna, Steven Yeun, Kelsey Grammer, Charlie Saxton Studio: Netflix Opening on: July 21, 2021
Hotel Transylvania: Transformania
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We can safely say this fourth installment makes Dracula and fam an official franchise. Expect more “bleh bleh bleh,” but specifics for the plot aren’t being released just yet. But really, who doesn’t know what to expect from these fun films by now?
Directed by: Derek Drymon, Jennifer Kluska Starring: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez Studio: Sony Pictures Opening on: July 23, 2021
This long-awaited movie, which was originally pushed back because of the pandemic, will be released in theaters this summer Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt will take fans on quite the adventure down the Amazon in this movie based on Disneyland’s ride. In an alternate move, Disney is so far only releasing this one in theaters and not on Disney +.
Director: Jaume Collet-Serra Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Édgar Ramírez, Jack Whitehall, Jesse Plemons, Paul Giamatti Studio: Disney Opening on: July 30, 2021
Paw Patrol: The Movie
It was only a matter of time before everyone’s favorite furry pals got their own movie. Kids can follow Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky, Zuma, Everest and Tracker as they head out on a major rescue mission.
Directed by: Cal Brunker Starring: Dax Shepard, Iain Armitage, Tyler Perry Studio: Paramount Opening on: August 20, 2021
The sequel to the Oscar-nominated blockbuster Boss Baby brings the Templeton brothers back together and on a mission to start a family business (with some direction from a new boss baby).
Directed by: Tom McGrath Starring: Amy Sedaris, James Marsden, Jeff Goldblum, Alec Baldwin Studio: Dreamworks Opening on: September 17, 2021
Featuring an all-star cast headed up by Charlize Theron and Oscar Isaac, this sequel to the popular 2019 animated film follows everyone’s favorite spooky family as they encounter more crazy adventures.
Directed by: Greg Tiernan, Conrad Vernon Starring: Charlize Theron, Oscar Isaac, Chloë Grace Moretz Studio: Universal Pictures Opening on: October 1, 2021
This sci-fi story takes a look at friendship in the social media age. Follow awkward middle schooler Barney and his new best friend: a walking, talking, digitally connected device named Ron.
Directed by: Sarah Smith and Jean-Philippe Vine Starring: To be announced Studio: Twentieth Century Studios Opening on: October 2021
Clifford gets a live-action computer-animated makeover in this new film that follows a young girl and her giant puppy.
Directed by: Walt Becker Starring: Darby Camp, Sienna Guillory, Rosie Perez Studio: Paramount Opening on: November 5, 2021
Encanto
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This film follows a magical family in Colombia where one daughter doesn’t have any magical powers like the rest of her family. With songwriting brilliance from Lin-Manuel Miranda, we’re sure this movie will boast quite a few songs to remember.
Directed by: Jared Bush Starring: Stephanie Beatriz Studio: Disney Opening on: November 24, 2021
This sequel to the toe-tapping 2016 film follows Buster Moon and his friends as they try to persuade a reclusive rock star to join them for the opening of a new show. We're betting that this one will have an amazing soundtrack!
Directed by: Garth Jennings, Christophe Lourdelet Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Selena Gomez, Shawn Mendes, John C. Reilly, Idina Menzel, Reese Witherspoon, Nick Kroll, Scarlett Johansson Studio: Illumination Opening on: December 22, 2021
Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Adventure
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This animated feature from Netflix will tell the story of the 1969 moon landing from two very different points of view.
Directed by: Richard Linklater Starring: Zachary Levi, Jack Black, Glen Powell, Josh Wiggins, Samuel Davis Studio: Netflix Opening on: 2021
Vivo is an animated musical adventure featuring songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and tells the story of music and friendship. Specific plot points are being kept under wraps, but expect dazzling locales not seen before in animated film.
Directed by: Kirk DeMicco Starring: To be announced Studio: Sony Pictures Opening on: 2021
Have you ever wished that you had a fairy godmother? Today, Disney+ shared the new trailer for its all-new enchanted Christmas comedy, Godmothered, starring Isla Fisher and Jillian Bell. This new film will debut exclusively on the streaming service Fri., Dec. 4, 2020.
Set at Christmas time, Godmothered is a comedy about Eleanor, a young, inexperienced fairy godmother-in-training (Jillian Bell) who upon hearing that her chosen profession is facing extinction, decides to show the world that people still need fairy godmothers. Finding a mislaid letter from a 10-year-old girl in distress, Eleanor tracks her down and discovers that the girl, Mackenzie, is now a 40-year-old single mom (Isla Fisher) working at a news station in Boston. Having lost her husband several years earlier, Mackenzie has all but given up on the idea of “Happily Ever After,” but Eleanor is bound and determined to give Mackenzie a happiness makeover, whether she likes it or not.
Godmothered is directed by Sharon Maguire (Bridget Jones’s Diary, Bridget Jones’s Baby) and produced by Justin Springer (Dumbo), Diane L. Sabatini (Lady and the Tramp), Tom Pollock (Ghostbusters: Afterlife), Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters) and Amie Karp (Ghostbusters: Afterlife) served as executive producers.
Godmothered also stars Santiago Cabrera, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Jane Curtin, June Squibb, Jillian Shea Spaeder, Willa Skye, Artemis Pebdani, Utkarsh Ambudkar and Stephnie Weir.