Joie De Viv

finding the joy in every day

” Mickey’s Search Party!” – Disney On Ice 2019

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It’s the happiest time of the year!  It’s time for Disney On Ice to skate back into town in the Greater Los Angeles Area!  Disney On Ice has become a cherished holiday tradition in our family now, and we look forward to it all year long!  This year’s show, “Mickey’s Search Party!”, is sure to dazzle and capture the hearts and awe of guests of all ages!  * Be sure to scroll down to the end of the post for a DISCOUNT CODE!*

SHOW INFO:

This brand-new immersive ice skating experience brings the magic closer to fans than ever before throughengaging elements that take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats, as performer athleticism
mixes with acrobatic and aerial stunts to bring skating skills to new heights. An exciting
participatory adventure told through multi-leveled performances that immerse fans into the
fantastic worlds of Disney-Pixar’s Coco, Frozen, Moana, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Toy Story and
The Little Mermaid, this all-new show will be skating into the Southland playing L.A, Anaheim,
Long Beach and Ontario from December 12 th – January 5 th !


Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for
clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. Journey across the Marigold Bridge
with Miguel from Disney-Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and
discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the
audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and
sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice
palace. Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice for
onlookers seated above and below. Board the Jolly Roger and laugh hysterically as the hilarious
pirates flip, tumble, and twist on air tracks, stilts and more in an effort to showcase their talents for
Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter
the fiery wrath of Te Ka. And make memories with your whole family during Aladdin, Toy Story and
The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out magical celebration!


Join this magical search and help look for clues to unlock an epic journey when Disney On Ice
presents Mickey’s Search Party delivers an unforgettable experience with your family!

TICKET INFO:

L O S A N G E L E S
WHEN: Thursday, December 12 – Sunday, December 15
o Thursday, December 12 7:30 PM
o Friday, December 13 7:30 PM
o Saturday, December 14 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, December 15 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
WHERE: STAPLES Center – 1111 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015
TICKETS: Ticket prices start at $15!

Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $16 each on select seating (not valid for
premium VIP/Front Row seating)
Tickets available for purchase online at AXS.com, charge by phone at 888-9AXS-TIX or in-
person at the venue Box Office. *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

A N A H E I M
WHEN: Thursday, December 19 – Monday, December 23
o Thursday, December 19 7:00 PM
o Friday, December 20 11:00 AM & 7:00 PM
o Saturday, December 21 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, December 22 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Monday, December 23 11:00 AM & 7:00 PM
WHERE: Honda Center – 2695 E. Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806
TICKETS: Ticket prices start at $15!

Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $16 each on select seating (not valid for
premium VIP/Front Row seating)
Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue Box
Office. *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

L O N G B E A C H
WHEN: Thursday, December 26 – Monday, December 30
o Thursday, December 26 7:00 PM
o Friday, December 27 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Saturday, December 28 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, December 29 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Monday, December 30 7:00 PM
WHERE: Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
TICKETS: Ticket prices start at $15!

Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $16 each on select seating (not valid for
premium VIP/Front Row seating)
Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue Box
Office. *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

O N T A R I O
WHEN: Wednesday, January 1 – Sunday, January 5
o Wednesday, January 1 7:00 PM
o Thursday, January 2 7:00 PM
o Friday, January 3 7:00 PM
o Saturday, January 4 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, January 5 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

WHERE: Toyota Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

(formerly Citizens Business Bank Arena)

TICKETS: Ticket prices start at $15!

Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $16 each on select seating (not valid for
premium VIP/Front Row seating)
Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue Box
Office.

*** USE DISCOUNT CODE: MOM20 for select dates! ***

 

Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $16 each on select seating (not valid for
premium VIP/Front Row seating)
Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue Box
Office. *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

*** USE DISCOUNT CODE: MOM20 for select dates! ***

“Dare To Dream” – Disney On Ice 2018

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year: it’s time for Disney On Ice to skate into town in the Greater Los Angeles area!  We have been to two shows now, and she talks about it with so much anticipation for it all year.  This year’s presentation named, “Dare To Dream”, is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!  Moana will be voyaging onto the ice this year, for the first time ever, and a pre-show sing-along with Miguel from Coco, is going to have the audience belting out their favorite tunes!  * Be sure to scroll down to the end of the post for a DISCOUNT CODE!*

SHOW INFO:

Celebrate what’s possible as five daring Disney Princesses spark the courage
inside us all in Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream, skating into the Southland this holiday
season from December 13 th – January 6 th ! Featuring Disney’s Moana for the first time in a live
production, hosts Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse bring the Disney magic to life and take
audiences on an expedition across raging seas and snow-covered mountains in this action-
packed extravaganza with the beloved characters from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Frozen,
Tangled and Cinderella.


In her Disney On Ice debut, see how far Moana will go in a high-seas adventure with demigod
Maui, to save her island and discover her true identity. Join Belle as she fearlessly befriends the
enchanted castle staff and reveals the Beast’s gentleness. Experience Anna’s devotion to her
sister, Elsa, on her life-changing journey to stop an eternal winter. Explore with Rapunzel, Flynn
Ryder, Cinderella and friends from around the Disney Kingdom as they find the heart and
determination to overcome obstacles and make their dreams come true.

 

TICKET INFO:

L O S A N G E L E S
WHEN: Thursday, December 13 – Sunday, December 16
o Thursday, December 13 7:30 PM
o Friday, December 14 7:30 PM
o Saturday, December 15 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, December 16 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
WHERE: STAPLES Center – 1111 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

A N A H E I M
WHEN: Wednesday, December 19 – Sunday, December 23
o Wednesday, December 19 7:00 PM
o Thursday, December 20 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Friday, December 21 11:00 AM & 7:00 PM
o Saturday, December 22 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, December 23 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

WHERE: Honda Center – 2695 E. Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806

O N T A R I O
WHEN: Wednesday, December 26 – Sunday, December 30
o Wednesday, December 26 7:00 PM
o Thursday, December 27 7:00 PM
o Friday, December 28 7:00 PM
o Saturday, December 29 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, December 30 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

WHERE: Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

L O N G B E A C H
WHEN: Thursday, January 3 – Sunday, January 6
o Thursday, January 3 7:00 PM
o Friday, January 4 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Saturday, January 5 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, January 6 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

WHERE: Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

 

TICKET INFO: Ticket prices start at $25!

*** USE DISCOUNT CODE: MOM20 for select dates! ***

Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $16 each on select seating (not valid
for premium VIP/Front Row seating)
Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-
3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office.
*prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

 

SoCal Kid Spot: Great Wolf Lodge & Tips

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A couple of years ago, Great Wolf Lodge opened a new location in Garden Grove, CA, JUST down the street from Disneyland! We have just spent our second “staycation” at the resort, and I hope I can share some of our experiences and tips we’ve found with other families who are considering this super fun family attraction!

The 105,000-square-foot indoor water park is exclusively for hotel guests and boasts over 600 suites. Our first trip was for Kaitlyn’s 4th birthday. We booked a standard suite and invited family to come along. We were able to purchase guest visitor passes for $50/pp and kids with 4 little toddlers, 3 of whom did not require a wristband. Despite their young age (3 under 3), the kids all had a blast! This year, we booked 2 suites for both families and the kids (5 under 5!) – and again all throughly enjoyed the park!

For the toddlers, we’ve always packed their Puddle Jumpers, because they are all familiar and comfortable with them. The resort does provide complimentary life vests and suggest all children under 48″ wear them.

The water park itself is indoors, heated to a comfortable 84F, with water temp at 82F. Fresh, dry towels are limitless – my how this was important with so many kids! The large number of employees and life guards on watch was reassuring as well.  With our group’s young ages, we typically spent a lot of time in the Cub Paw Pool.  Even our littlest (10 months) enjoyed the shallowest of waters, with a beach style-slope entry, water fountains, water tables, and the tiniest of slides.  The older toddlers also loved the slides in the Cub Paw Pool and overall semi-freedom of being able to bob, walk, and paddle in the shallow waters.  Our toddlers also LOVED Fort Mackenzie and all the water slides it offered. Even our 2 year olds could slide down solo, with a parent waiting at the bottom.  The lazy river and wave pools were also a huge hit with the older toddlers, accompanied by adults of course.  The adults took turns supervising little ones and going on the big slides for some thrills as well.

We made a point to attend their famous Bedtime Storytime in the main lobby. We had missed it on our first trip because we were still playing in the water. Plan accordingly if you want to attend this FREE nightly event. We set enough time to get up to the rooms, shower, get the kids in PJs, and scope out good seats. The kids got a kick out of going downstairs and seeing everyone else in their jammies as well. The stage involved moving characters, screens, a live storyteller, and a large character for meet-and-greet afterwards. If your child is timid, it may be better to choose a spot further back from the stage.

To save some serious dough, book a weeknight stay. The second best alternative, as we have done both times – book a Sunday/Monday stay. Groupon also regularly has deals for Great Wolf, so be sure to check it out. You are allowed to use the waterpark as early as 1pm on the day of your stay, with check-in typically around 4pm. You can also pre-check in and they will send a text to let you know when your room is ready. For the day of checkout, check out is at 11am. You may pay an additional fee for a later check-out if space is available. You are also able to use the water park the FULL day until closing, on your check out day. Plan ahead and pack a change of clothes and toiletries. There are showers and changing rooms in the water park.

We have yet to try the interactive MagiQuest game that is a huge hit with the resort, but we did see many groups throughly enjoying it! Be warned though, if you decide to partake, from my “interviews in the elevators”, the game requires a lot of elevator trips, and approximately 6 hrs to complete in entirety. It is also not free. I heard it cost about $40 ($20 per wand, and $20 for the game). It was conclusive by all participants we saw, that they thought it was completely worth it! When our kids are old enough to enjoy, I am sure it will be an activity we do as a family!

Additional Tips:
* A refillable souvenir cup for drinks can be purchased for $14.95 plus tax and includes free refills for the duration of your stay.
* Dunkin Donuts (on main lobby level) also has a refillable coffee cup for $9.95 plus tax.
* Guests celebrating birthdays can request a special “wolf ears” headband, as long as available. Our first year, they were all out. All children guests receive complimentary wolf ears.
* There is a Target within 1/2 mile down the street for anything you may need or forget.
* McDonald’s is across the street.
* The Great Wolf “story” and an accompanying episode can be found in animated version on the in-room tv station.
* There is a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker in the room. We also received a couple of free bottles of water.
* Though the signs state no outside foods can be brought in, we never had any trouble with the snacks and milk we packed for the kids.

* GWL provides a limited number of complimentary shuttles to and from Disneyland Resort.

 

Years ago, we never would have thought we would have needed or found a reason to stay locally at an indoor water park.  However, Great Wolf Lodge really has become such a treat that we’ve all fallen for.  Have you stayed at a Great Wolf Lodge?  Please feel free to share any of your tips as well!

***ALL OPINIONS AND TIPS ARE MY OWN.  NO COMPENSATION WAS PROVIDED FOR THIS REVIEW.***

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Review: Disney On Ice “Follow Your Heart”

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Last night was a most magical and memorable evening!  I got to take Kaitlyn, my sister, and my niece, H, to Disney On Ice to watch the new Follow Your Heart show!  It was a first for H and my sister, and the looks on their faces were worth the drive in L.A. rush hour(s) traffic!  Kaitlyn and I went to our first Disney On Ice show last year, and it is likely a new favorite tradition!  The show was also completely different, so we were mesmerized by all the different acts.

The beginning of the show focused on the character, Riley, from Inside Out.  The girls were SO excited to see the emotion characters, especially fan favorite, JOY.

2017 was the year of Beauty and the Beast in my humble opinion. Oh what fun to see “Be Our Guest” enacted right in front of us, especially as Kaitlyn has been very fond of Lumiere recently.

It was incredible to see how Disney On Ice was able to bring us under the sea with Finding Dory, and to see our favorite sea life characters come to life!  I especially loved the voice of Baby Dory and the realistic “kelp forest” scenery.

There was a portion for almost each princess, and a program featuring Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.  The MOST incredible parts of the night included aerial feats performed by Princess Ariel, Princess Rapunzel, and Flynn Ryder.  I was definitely in awe!  Pure Disney Magic! (You can see a couple of video clips on my Instagram!)

Of course the girls were ecstatic to see Arendelle brought to life with the mid-show scene from Princess Anna, as well as the duets with Queen Elsa.  The finale was electrifying!

The girls were up way past bedtime, but the experience was so memorable and special.  They kept thanking us for bringing them and saying it was “the best day ever!”  Talk about thawing a frozen heart!

A few additional notes:

  •  We watched the 7pm showing and got out around 9:30pm.
  • Parking at L.A. Live/Staples Center parking was $30.  Cash or CC.  I found the extra $ worth it for not having to walk too far with the little girls at night.
  • Strollers need to be parked at stroller parking areas designated inside the arena areas (walkways with food counters and restrooms).
  • No foods or drinks are permitted.  You can however bring your own beverage containers and there are water fountains located outside of restrooms.
  • Medium to Large bags may be denied and/or subjected to additional screening in a separate room.
  • The areas gets pretty chilly with keeping the ice cool.  We made our girls wear a couple of layers, as well as coats.
  • There will be plenty of vendors selling food, drinks, snacks, and merchandise.  There will also be photo booth stations, for a charge ($25 on the night we went).
  • Many of the little girls in attendance came dressed in princess or Disney garb.  Our girls love dressing up, so it was a no-brainer for the special night!

The holiday season has become synonymous with Disney On Ice for us now. It’s a tradition we will look forward to for years.  How about you?  Have you, or will you be attending a show this season?

Shows run in the Greater Los Angeles Area from December 14 through January 8, 2018 in Los Angeles (STAPLES Center), Anaheim (Honda Center), Long Beach (Long Beach Arena) and Ontario (Citizens Business Bank Arena).Tickets and show date information can be found on Disneyonice.com!  Don’t forget to use code MOM20 for 20% off on select dates!

 

 

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Disney On Ice: Follow Your Heart!

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The holiday season tradition of Disney on Ice is upon us again in the Greater Los Angeles area!  Last year was the first time we went to a Disney on Ice production, and my what a favorite memory it is!  This season brings new adventures with Disney Pixar characters from Finding Dory and Inside Out.

Of course, no winter-season fun would be complete without everyone’s favorite sister duo, Elsa and Anna, and their magical snowman friend, Olaf!  Princesses Cinderella, Rapunzel, and Tiana make their dreams come true through their virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And the Toy Story gang with Buzz Lightyear and Woody help celebrate the meaning of true friendship! Every Disney fan will be sure to be pleased!

Disney On Ice: Follow Your Dreams – Coming to the Southland December 14, 2017 through January 7, 2018

L O S   A N G E L E S

WHEN: Thursday, December 14 – Sunday, December 17

    • Thursday, December 14   7:30 PM
    • Friday, December 15 7:30 PM
    • Saturday, December 16 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
    • Sunday, December 17 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

WHERE: STAPLES Center – 1111 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

A N A H E I M

WHEN: Wednesday, December 20 – Sunday, December 24

    • Wednesday, December 20   7:00 PM
    • Thursday, December 21 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
    • Friday, December 22 11:00 AM & 7:00 PM
    • Saturday, December 23 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
    • Sunday, December 24 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM

WHERE: Honda Center – 2695 E. Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806

 

L O N G   B E A C H

WHEN: Wednesday, December 27 – Monday, January 1

    • Wednesday, December 27 7:00 PM
    • Thursday, December 28 7:00 PM
    • Friday, December 29 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
    • Saturday, December 30 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
    • Sunday, December 31 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM
    • Monday, January 1 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

WHERE: Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

 

O N T A R I O

WHEN: Wednesday, January 3 – Sunday, January 7

    • Wednesday, January 3 7:00 PM
    • Thursday, January 4 7:00 PM
    • Friday, January 5 7:00 PM
    • Saturday, January 6 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
    • Sunday, January 7 11:30 AM & 3:30 PM

 

WHERE: Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

TICKETS: Ticket prices start at $25!

Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $15 each on select seating (not valid for premium VIP/Front Row seating)  Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000   or in-person at the venue Box Office.             *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

 

COUPON ALERT!

Use code: MOM20 to save 20% off on select show dates!

I know I’m so excited about seeing the show with Kaitlyn!  Are you planning to go?!