Hi all,

Yesterday the Disney Parks Twitter account very subtly announced that on October 1st - just 3 days away (and after much fan speculation) - there would be a character cavalcade, a sing along at the Castle and special merchandise "and more".

This is the first and only time this has actually been announced in any official form, but finally ends the months of speculation that something might happen in the Magic Kingdom on that day.

Sadly we can't be there, but will be watching the events unfold, and hope to bring you all the latest information when we have it.

Over in Disneyland Paris, fans who may (or may not) have some inside information have suggested that the Central Plaza Stage will be completely de-constructed (though we heard from the inside that it is just being reduced) and that the new show, titled 'Dreams', will involve fountains, characters, fireworks and projections. I cannot see how they can have a character element to the show without some sort of stage, as it would have to be at ground level in front of the Castle, which just wouldn't work. Besides, having a fountain in the middle of Central Plaza while having the rest of the show at the Castle (projections, fireworks etc) would be somewhat awkward for Guests to view. Either they would be in front of the fountain and not see the action at the Castle, or they would be at the Castle and have their back to the fountain.

It has also been suggested that FantIllusion is now staying, and will run through the year next year. Although I don't completely dismiss this one, again I think it is unlikely it will run year round.

I had already said this a long time ago, but it also now seems that Mickey will be moving into the Fantasy Festival Stage. I had mentioned this quite some time ago here on the blog, and it seems to have some weight behind it now, so I would say that this rumour is probably fairly accurate.

Please remember that these are just rumours (about Paris) and things can always change at any time. I don't tend to share pure rumours very often, but some of these were quite interesting, so I just thought I would share them.

Loren has posted his weekend updates from the Disneyland Resort, so be sure to check out all the cool character happenings over there. Loren also confirmed that the unannounced closure of the Pooh meet 'n' greet area is just for refurbishment.

Finally, our friend Drew on WDWMagic Forum posted that Duffy appear on Mickey's float at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party this year in the Magic Kingdom. I do wonder if he will have a Christmas outfit, seeing as he does have a special Halloween one for MNSSHP...

Ok, that's all for now,

Dan.