Tradition

Traditions, no matter how big or how small, can be hard to maintain. As generations go by, individuals' circumstances will change; and it can sometimes be difficult to celebrate the ways of the past. But it's a special experience when an old tradition for someone else can become a new tradition for you. At Epcot's World Showcase, guests have an opportunity to witness pieces of heritage from all over the world. From the kumi-daiko in Japan, to Oktoberfest in Germany, to the celebrated street performers of Italy; this display of cultural customs can spark a newfound love for the old ways.

Kumi-Daiko
Japan Pavilion
Epcot World Showcase
Walt Disney World, FL

Bringing In The 4th

Every year at the Magic Kingdom, Disney puts on a SPECTACULAR fireworks display; with 360 degrees of pure goodiness!!!!!! And if you don't want to brave the crowds on the 4th, you can even check out the same show on the 3rd (as I did here). ;)

As this was my first visit to the Magic Kingdom for this event, I'll admit that I was being a little pouty as we were moving further and further from the castle as the fireworks were about to begin. As you can see, we didn't end up in the greatest of spots, but the show took an amazing turn; and fireworks were going off all around us. So we were still able to really enjoy this magnificent display.

4th of July Fireworks, on July 3rd ;)
Main Street, U.S.A.
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

View The World

Epcot's World Showcase. A beautiful place to just relax and take it easy. Although crowds can get somewhat insane here; it's always easy find a nice spot to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle. And where else can you sit and just enjoy the view of 11.5 countries??? (I don't know what to call that sad showing of Africa)

Epcot World Showcase
Walt Disney World, FL

The Art of Disney

Imagine Bud Light's "Real Men of Genius" Commercials:

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Disney Presents... Real Men of Genius
"Real Men of Genius"
Today we salute you, Mr. Water Artist

When Disney needs save a few bucks
You're the one for the job
Animatronics???? .... No Way
Fancy Lights??? ... Don't Even Think About It
Just water and a bag; and you're the Picaso of the Parks
"Artsy Fartsy!!!!!"

Who cares if you're blocking sidewalks
Hey kid!!! Move that foot. You wouldn't step on a painting would you?
"This Ain't A Twister Board!!!!!"
You're supplying smiles with your cool style
So keep working on that Ground Gallery Mr. Water Artist
You show that low tech, is simply cool as heck

"Mr. Disney World Water Artist!!!!!!"
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P.S. I am in NO WAY trying to mock what they do. I think it is absolutely amazing. And I was totally surprised the first time I saw this. I actually felt bad that most people weren't stopping to admire the kid's work. It was at Downtown Disney during a crowded night though. So you could barely see what was going on.

Water Art
Liberty Square
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Behind the Phenomenon

Ever since the first installment of this series hit the scene, fans have been enamored with its presence at the parks. Whether not being able to turn around without seeing High School Musical merchandise, or constantly seeing this show (which seemed like every hour), or having "What time is is!?!?!" or "We're all in this together!!!!" unfortunately stuck in our heads; you can't deny that this is a force to be reckoned with.

High School Musical 3: Senior Year - Right Here! Right Now!
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

Traditional Magic

Animation drawings were once hand-inked or photocopied onto clear pieces of celluloid - or cels - and then hand-painted. Today, using computer technology, character and effects drawings are inked and painted digitially. Here in our Ink and Paint department, Disney artists carry on the tradition by creating hand-painted limited editions.
- The Signage Above This Area ;)

Theodora DeLaney
Ink and Paint Department
The Magic of Disney Animation
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

Geeked For Geekdom

I can't help but to be reminded of the hilarious meeting of Triumph the Insult Comic Dog & Star Wars Nerds ;)

For almost every year since 1997, the Star Wars faithful have traveled to Disney's Hollywood/MGM Studios to celebrate their love for that glorious franchise. Only the craziest of craziest (and me) get there before the break of day, for the chance to acquire exclusive merchandise, or those highly sought after autographs.

You are looking at the early arrivals for the merchandise line. This was taken at 5:24 AM, from my 4:00 AM arriving spot in the Temuera Morrison autograph line. Hey... I gotta get it all out before the baby comes. ;) .... excuses, excuses

Star Wars Weekends 2010
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

Familiar Strangers

Disney is the new Center of the Universe!!!! HA HA!!!!

Where else in the World do familiar strangers actually plan trips to meet in person!?!?! .... Or just plan to meet after already booking their vacation!?!?! It's Florida... It's Fun... It's Sun... It's Fun IN the Sun... It's finally meeting others who share the same passion as you. Whether at a Disney park, or on a Disney Cruise (Go B.O.B.'ers!!!), strangers from all over will congregate for the Love of Disney!!!!

Flickrite Photowalk ....... with the coolest people EVER!!!!
Sunset Blvd.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

Game Face

"Terrified... mortified... petrified... stupefied... by you."
- Russell Crowe as John Nash in "A Beautiful Mind"

As happy-go-lucky as most Cast Members are, they definitely know when to bring out their game face. When it comes to crowd control, safety, or other serious situations; the job is no laughing matter. >:-[

Josh here, is blocking off traffic before the Flag Retreat ceremony starts.

Josh
Flag Retreat
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Flag Retreat

The Flag Retreat is performed daily at 5:00 PM, at the Magic Kingdom. This ceremony includes members of Disney Security, The Main Street Philharmonic marching band, The Dapper Dans barbershop quartet.... and of course, a park guest!!!!!! Anyone can sign-up to participate, but Veterans are definitely preferred.

This was the first time I've ever witnessed this ceremony. And I must say, Disney does a spectacular job; and they take this very seriously. So if you're anywhere near Main Street at 5:00, I'd suggest you check it out. :)

Flag Retreat
Town Square
Main Street, U.S.A.
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL