Disney4me
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Avast there! Ye come seeking adventure and salty old pirates, eh? Beginning March 16, you can celebrate 50 years of Pirates of the Caribbean with new Food and Beverage items, inspired by the beloved attraction at Disneyland Park!
Start yer mornin’ with a Caribbean Breakfast Burrito, filled with scrambled eggs, Andouille sausage, rice, sweet potatoes, black beans and cheddar cheese available at Mint Julep Bar and Royal Street Veranda. At lunchtime, Royal Street Veranda and Harbour Galley will serve a hearty Calypso Caribbean Chicken Stew featuring Caribbean-spiced chicken stewed with carrots, onions, celery, potatoes and yucca. At French Market Restaurant, the Buccaneer Pulled Pork Sandwich is piled high with jerk-spiced pork, topped with sweet and tangy barbecue sauce and pineapple Caribbean-style slaw, and served with fried yucca.
If ye be seekin’ gold, the Lost Treasure Beignets are for you! These lemon-flavored beignets shimmer as good as gold, and can be found at Mint Julep Bar and Café Orleans. Or try the Golden Churro, from the nearby churro cart—it’s said to lure the most stubborn sailor to its call.
At Café Orleans, try the Steak Sandwich, topped with white cheddar sauce, bacon jam, arugula and cherry tomatoes, and served with sweet potato waffle fries.
For an extra special treat, try Fruits de Mer at the Disneyland original, Blue Bayou Restaurant – featuring pan-seared red snapper, sautéed shrimp, scallop and hush puppy, served on a bed of spinach with spicy shrimp sauce and rémoulade.
Drink up me hearties, yo ho! The Jolly Roger Punch features a blend of tropical fruit juices—pineapple, orange and mango. You can find the special punch at French Market Restaurant, Mint Julep Bar, Harbour Galley and Royal Street Veranda. A limited edition, souvenir Pirates of the Caribbean stein will also available at the same locations.
These specialty items are only available for a limited time – so be sure to drop anchor in New Orleans Square soon!
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The popular basketball player Al Horford enjoyed a quick getaway with his familia to Walt Disney World Resort where he created endless and magical memories.
Along with his wife, Miss Universe 2003 Amelia Vega and his two-year old Ean, the Dominican player enjoyed Disney’s Hollywood Studios through the eyes of his son for the first time, an experience he won’t soon forget.
The Boston Celtics center and his family met Mickey Mouse, saw Disney Junior – Live on Stage! and even rode Toy Story Mania! He also had time to do a little photo shoot for ESPN Magazine.
Here’s a backstage look at Al and Amelia’s visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
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We are otter-ly excited to announce that the otter triplets at the Tree of Life in Disney’s Animal Kingdom now have names! The playful pups are Asian small-clawed otters which are the smallest of all otters, and the least aquatic. They spend most of their time on land, but when in the water, they can hold their breath for six to eight minutes. If you have visited the otters at their habitat you may have noticed they each have very unique personalities that have contributed to their names.
Raakshas is a Hindi word meaning monster. This young male’s favorite pastimes include exploring his enrichment and food with his mouth (unlike his siblings who use their paws) and pouncing on his brother and sister. In the video below you can see him playing and pouncing with his dad, Luke.
Pintar is Indonesian for smart or clever. The second male was the first one to discover that if he moved away from his siblings he could catch more fish with less competition. The Care team expects great things from this smart boy.
Pitakee Pyaaree (or Pitakee for short) is Hindi for daddy’s girl. Like her father, she was the least enthusiastic about learning to swim. Luke would pull the pups out of the water while Nitnoy (mom) was teaching them to swim. Once she was big enough, Pitakee followed her father¹s example by attempting to pull her brothers out of the water when they were swimming. She also solicits food from her father often, and he willingly obliges (which is a big deal for him).
Asian small-clawed otters are vulnerable in the wild due to habitat loss. Many of the wetland areas they call home are in decline because of a lack of water. One way we can help is by reducing our water usage with actions like turning off the faucet while using the sink to wash hands, brush teeth, and wash dishes and also reporting any leaking faucets or broken sprinkles that you may see. Making sure our local rivers and lakes are clean and healthy is another way to help protect natural habitats. Visit the otter habitat located on the left side of the Tree of Life to meet the family and continue on to the Discovery Island Trails to see more Disney animals.
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While Mother’s Day is officially on May 14, one day simply isn’t enough to celebrate our moms. For guests staying at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawai‘i during the month of May, we will have special offerings and fun activities to say “mahalo” – or thank you – to moms!
Here are a few things to fill mom’s perfect day at Aulani Resort during Mahalo Mama Month:
Morning: Our chefs have a special room service treat just for moms: a decadent French Toast stuffed with chocolate and strawberries. Be sure to plan ahead and surprise mom with breakfast brought right to her bedside!
Late Morning: Moms can visit the award-winning Laniwai Spa to indulge in a special Mahalo Mama Spa Package. The package starts with a Lomilomi Massage, followed by a Cinderella Facial and a Yummy Mummy Organic Pedicure.
Afternoon: While mom is enjoying “me time” at Laniwai Spa, the rest of the family can head to the Pau Hana Room for craft time. Our friendly cast members will provide all the supplies needed to create photo frames and other keepsakes for mom.
Early Evening: Picturesque Hawaiian sunsets are the perfect backdrop for family photos. As a special offer in May, guests will receive 15% off Family Portrait Sessions—capturing your Hawaiian vacation memories forever.
For more information on Mahalo Mama Month, click here. And if you haven’t booked your Hawaiian vacation yet, we have a great offer this spring. When you book before April 4, you can save up to 30% on 5-night stays. This offer is valid for most stays April 13 through June 12, 2017.* Click here to book.
How will you say mahalo to the moms in your life?
*Savings based on the non-discounted rate for the same room. The number of rooms allocated for this offer may be limited. Limit 2 rooms per reservation. Excludes suites and 3-bedroom Grand Villas. Additional charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room. Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. Advance reservations required.
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The beloved swashbuckling voyage to a long forgotten time when pirates wrought havoc on the high seas celebrates its 50th anniversary this year at Disneyland Resort. The Pirates of the Caribbean attraction opened on March 18, 1967, in New Orleans Square, and quickly became an instant classic. To celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are releasing commemorative apparel and collectible pins this month in Disneyland park. I recently spoke with Graphic Designer Quynh Kimball, an 18-year Cast Member who works for Disney Design Group, about the inspiration behind the pin collection.
“We wondered what kind of pins would be released if Disney Pin Trading had been available in 1967,” explained Quynh. “The merchandising team and I watched the ‘Wonderful World of Disney’ opening day television special. We loved seeing pirates invading New Orleans Square to officially open the attraction. I could only imagine the delight guests felt as they experienced for the first time what have become iconic Disney attraction scenes. We included several of those scenes in the pin designs.”
Guests will find several individual limited edition pins, each with an edition size of 2,500. The individual limited edition pins will also be offered in a boxed set containing one completer pin (500 edition size).
“My favorite scenes include the man playing a banjo on his porch and the plunge down two waterfalls into Dead Man’s Cove,” said Quynh. “I thought the treasure chests with colorful gems were a great nod to the pirates in the latter scene. Those pirates are frozen in time and will never take home those chests filled with jewels, but our guests can with these pins [laughs].”
In addition to pins, guests will find two commemorative “I Was There” shirts.
One shirt was designed specifically for Annual Passholders, who may also find a collectible limited edition pin (3,000 edition size). Passholders should present a valid Annual Pass in order to purchase the exclusive shirt and pin.
The limited edition pins, Annual Passholder pin, and boxed pin set will be released on March 16 in the following Disneyland park locations: Westward Ho located in Frontierland; 20th Century Music Co. on Main Street, U.S.A.; and Little Green Store Command in Tomorrowland. Guests may also find these items at Disney’s Pin Traders in Downtown Disney District.
The “I Was There” Shirts will be offered in both Disneyana on Main Street, U.S.A., and Pieces of Eight in New Orleans Square on March 18. Guests may also find a version of the red-colored shirt via DisneyStore.com/ParkEvents from March 20-26. Please allow 3-5 weeks for delivery.
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Miss Adventure Falls | Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
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I recently shared an update on one of my favorite annual traditions – The Raglan Road Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival. While that’s certainly the biggest party on our block, and the most authentically Irish celebration you can expect this side of the Emerald Isle, it’s not the only way that Disney Springs will be joining the March 17th festivities. In fact, many of our offerings are already available, and everything noted below will be featured through Friday, if not the end of the month:
Food and Beverage: I don’t know about you, but I welcome any excuse to indulge in limited-time treats during special holidays. Here at Disney Springs, selections abound for St. Patrick’s Day, including a few of my favorites which follow in no particular order: Corned Beef Poutine from The Daily Poutine – fresh frites smothered in beer cheese and shaved corned beef; seasonal ganache flavors from The Ganachery including Irish Cream, Stout, and Irish Whiskey; green waffle cones and an Irish chocolate cupcake with Belgian dark chocolate cake and a Baileys Irish cream cheese frosting from Sprinkles Cupcakes; Mickey Mouse “St. Patrick’s Day” specialty apples from Goofy’s Candy Co. and Candy Cauldron; chocolate mint milkshakes from D-Luxe Burger; and last, but certainly not least, green beer and Sham-Rock-Aritas from Dockside Margaritas. (Of course, this is in addition to all the Irish fare you’ll find at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant!)
Special Keepsakes: If you mark your memories with trinkets from your travels, Disney’s Days of Christmas is a must-visit stop – here, you can find St. Patrick’s themed Mickey plush, ornaments that can be personalized with clovers, dates and green ink, and even a fun antenna topper (look for the holiday pack!). Just a few steps away, Disney Design-A-Tee presented by Hanes offers T-shirts that can be customized … I’m a fan of matching designs for the family, but maybe that’s just me?
Entertainment: St. Patrick’s themed songs? Performers in green? PhotoPass props and photo buttons? Check. Check. And Check. No need to follow the rainbow – live entertainment is likely around the bend, no matter which Disney Springs neighborhood you visit. If you’re looking for a sure thing, your best bet for Irish performances is Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, where a diverse medley of live acts will take the stage throughout the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival.
Whether you’re Irish 365 days a year or just on St. Patrick’s Day, there’s plenty to celebrate this week at Disney Springs. Which activities are you looking forward to the most?
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Are you getting excited for the release of the live-action film, “Beauty and the Beast” this friday, March 17? I cannot wait! Luckily, there are plenty of ways to experience the “tale as old as time” here at Walt Disney World Resort every day. Here are our top five must-do’s:
1. Catch the Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage! show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. During this 25-minute Broadway-style show, Belle, Gaston, Beast, Mrs. Potts and all of your other favorites perform songs and scenes from the classic film multiple times each day.
2. Sample from a scrumptious menu of French and American cuisine at Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park. Open for quick-service breakfast and lunch and table-service dinner, you can dine inside of some of the iconic scenes from Beast’s Castle, including the Grand Ballroom, the Castle Gallery or the West Wing. Also, Beast meets with you in his study after your meal.
3. For little princesses, they can receive the royal Belle treatment at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, located at both Disney Springs and inside Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park. Little ones ages 3-12 have the chance to be transformed with a Belle dress, special hairstyle, nail designs and more. Call (407) WDW-STYLE for reservations.
4. Relive the timeless tale during a magical reenactment at Magic Kingdom Park at Enchanted Tales with Belle. You will get to share special moments with Belle inside Beast’s library as you have a role in helping to tell this classic story.
5. Visit Gaston’s Tavern, an ode to the over-the-top man himself, at Magic Kingdom Park. Decorated with hunting trophies and tons of keepsakes dedicated to Gaston, you can grab a variety of pastries and snacks, including LeFou’s Brew, a delicious frozen apple juice beverage infused with a hint of toasted marshmallow.
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There are so many reasons to visit Walt Disney World during the slightly less busy month of March. But if you’re asking us to help you justify a trip during this time of year, we have only one thing to say: the 2017 Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant!
We know Disney Springs is a hotbed of activity lately, with so many new restaurants opening in the last year, but Raglan Road remains one of our favorite spots. And that’s doubly true during the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival, Orlando’s premier celebration of all things Irish.
Raglan Road in Downtown Disney
This year the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival runs March 16-19, with an incredible line up of entertainment, family-friendly fun, and a special craft beer debut. We have all of the details for you here!
Paddy’s (Not Patty’s) Pilsner
In keeping with their commitment to feature local purveyors and flavors, Raglan Road has once again partnered with a local brewer, Orange Blossom Brewing Company, to debut an exclusive beer just in time for the Mighty Festival.
Paddy’s (Not Patty’s) Pilsner is the handiwork of OB’s founder, Tom Moench, and is brewed with Orange Blossom Honey. The crisp pilsner is finished with Blood Orange, and the slight sweetness from the fermented honey against the mildly bitter and sour blood orange achieves a balance of flavors.
Paddy’s Not Patty’s Pilsner
In fact, Raglan Road offers an extensive collection of local craft beer.
Of course, there’s also plenty of Guinness and Craft Cocktails, in addition to a full menu of Irish-inspired favorites by Master Chef Kevin Dundon to enjoy for lunch, dinner, and late night dining.
Don’t Miss the Killer Irish Egg!
And don’t forget Brunch, served from 10:00AM-3:00PM Saturday and Sunday.
Mighty Festival Entertainment
But while we love the food, the entertainment is great as well.
New to the Festival in 2017, Raglan Road welcomes The Byrne Brothers from County Donegal. The boys are award winning Irish Dance competitors as well as accomplished musicians.
The Byrne Brothers Performing at Raglan Road
Other acts include the Young Dubliners, Hanalena, and Raglan house bands The Raglan Roots Coalition and Swingin’ on the Gate.
Live entertainment takes place on two different stages over the course of the four-day event. Check out the full schedule below. Just click to enlarge so that you can see all of the detail.
Full 2017 Raglan Road Mighty St. Patrick’s Day Festival Schedule — Click to Enlarge
In addition to the big events, revelers can also enjoy complimentary face painting from noon to 8:00PM each day of the festival.
So here’s the good news: it’s not too late to make an advance dining reservation to get in on the fun. Reservations are available for March 16, 18, and 19. However, on St. Patrick’s Day, seating will be first come/first served with a cover charge of $10 for guests 18 and older.
Full Irish Breakfast
Go early. It’ll be packed.
Now, we’d love to hear from you! Will you be heading to Raglan Road as you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in 2017? Leave a comment and tell us which act or what beer you’re looking forward to the most!
Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and:
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For the first time this summer, we are taking guests to Alaska’s Icy Strait Point as part of new seven- and nine-night itineraries on the Disney Wonder. Departing from Vancouver, British Columbia, these voyages also sail to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Tracy Arm Fjord – giving Disney cruisers the ultimate Alaskan experience in America’s Last Frontier.
Located in the world’s largest native Tlingit village of Hoonah, Icy Strait Point offers a variety of cultural experiences, wildlife exploration and nature adventures. Today, I’ll give you my recommendations for Port Adventures that will immerse you in the culture and heritage of this Alaska native owned-and-operated port of call.
Hoonah Sightseeing & Tribal Dance – Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the Tlingit settlement, with the chance to gain perspective into the area’s past and present through narration by a local guide. You’ll learn interesting aspects of life about this small heritage-rich village before arriving at the Native Heritage Center Theater for a lively performance from the Huna Tlingit. Through interpretive song, dance and storytelling, they will proudly share the history and tales of their people.
Ancient Oceans & Newborn Forests Walking Tour – On a 2-mile guided walking tour from the beach to rainforest, you’ll discover the fascinating geology, history and culture of Icy Strait. Your guide – a Tlingit carver and local teacher – will relate the history of the cannery buildings and how the Tlingit people live off the abundant sea. You’ll learn about the Hoonah Tlingit’s use of resources, the coastal rainforest, the origins of plant-based medicines and even how to track animals by observing footprints and vegetation.
Icy Strait Kayak Adventure – This once-in-a-lifetime kayaking experience is a great opportunity to learn more about the area’s history and culture. As you kayak to beautiful Pitt Island and around the Hoonah waterfront, where you may see humpback whales, orcas, seals, sea lions and other marine wildlife, your knowledgeable guide will tell you about the native culture of the Tlingit and the authentic Alaskan village of Hoonah. Guests with an appreciation for culture, wildlife and nature will love this adventure.
In my next post, we’ll look at a few of my favorite Port Adventures where wildlife is the main attraction. Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore!
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In this episode of “Every Role a Starring Role,” you’ll meet Kat Powell, a Machinist at Mickey’s Fun Wheel in Disney California Adventure park. Kat completed a four-year machinist training program through Fullerton College, funded by the Disneyland Resort, which allowed her to pursue an advanced certificate while working on one of her favorite attractions. Kat now works after hours with her fellow maintenance professionals, maintaining the iconic Ferris wheel at the center of Paradise Pier!
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Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade | Magic Kingdom Park
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This coming Saturday, March 18, 2017, marks a very special anniversary: the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction will celebrate 50 years. And lucky for us landlubbers, we’re invited to join the party in Disneyland with special entertainment, merchandise, and FOOD!!
©Disney
Starting this Thursday, March 16th, specialty food items will be available at several restaurants for the occasion, and we’ll be listing those in a moment. But we’ve simply GOT to start with one item in pARRRR-ticular (see what I did there?): GOLD-DUSTED CHURROS are coming to Disneyland for the celebration!
Disneyland Churro — Picture this, only dusted in GOLD!!
You’ll also want to keep your eye (the one that’s NOT covered by your Pirate patch) peeled for specialty Pirate-themed menu items at French Market Restaurant, the Mint Julep Bar, Harbour Galley, Royal Street Veranda, Café Orleans, and Blue Bayou Restaurant (which will likewise celebrate its 50th anniversary!).
Blue Bayou Sign
Pirates of the Caribbean Boat as seen in The Blue Bayou
Items – which will vary by location – will include a Buccaneer Pulled Pork Sandwich made with Jerk-spiced pork and sweet-and-tangy barbecue sauce, pineapple Caribbean-style slaw and fried yucca; and Lost Treasure Beignets (lemon-flavored with gold shimmer dust). Jolly Roger Punch will feature spiced tropical juices with pineapple, orange, and mango; and Calypso’s Caribbean Chicken Stew will be made with Caribbean-seasoned chicken with onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, potatoes, and yucca.
The French Market Sign in New Orleans Square
While these items will be available beginning on the 16th, pirate-themed entertainment will begin in New Orleans Square on Friday, March 17th, with the Bootstrappers and Lucky the Pirate. Additional entertainment – including appearances by Captain Jack Sparrow, and even more surprises — may be in store for the official celebration on March 18th. Seek your treasure (otherwise known as limited-edition anniversary merchandise) in New Orleans Square on the 18th as well, along with Pirate Speak collectible cards.
Yo Ho!!!!
Will you be lining up for a Gold-dusted Churro? Please let us know with a comment!
Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and:
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A delightful new apparel and accessories collection called The Dress Shop is coming to Walt Disney World at the end of March. Created by Disney Parks Merchandise, this whimsical collection is filled with nostalgia that fans of Disney Parks will love. I recently spoke with merchandiser Donna Sorrow about designing this new collection.
“We designed The Dress Shop collection for guests who want to emulate their favorite Disney characters or theme park attractions in a fun, retro way,” explained Donna. “These items aren’t costumes, rather the collection contains perfect outfits for guests who have a passion for Disney style.”
In development for a little over a year, The Dress Shop collection drew inspiration from popular nostalgic design trends. The design team also considered guest feedback about beloved Disney attractions.
“The dress styles are classic in design and contain incredible little details,” continued Donna. “Yet all the styles have modern fits which make them wonderful outfits to wear when visiting Disney Parks.”
Outfits include nods to Disney attractions such as Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, “it’s a small world,” The Haunted Mansion, and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Disney Parks Blog fans may also recognize the Orange Bird dress from a sneak preview we shared last December.
Other dress designs were inspired by classic Disney characters and stories including Minnie Mouse, Snow White from Walt Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” and Alice from Walt Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland.”
Matching accessories, such as handbags resembling an apple, the White Rabbit, or a Hollywood Tower Hotel suitcase, will also be released.
Guests can view the entire collection when The Dress Shop on Cherry Tree Lane opens inside the accessories boutique at the Marketplace Co-Op in Disney Springs on March 31. We’ll have special activities that day and throughout the weekend to celebrate the new addition including a trunk show of vintage-inspired apparel.
Select items from this collection will also be released on March 31 at Vault 28 in Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort. There will be a limited time offering of select items from the new collection beginning mid-April in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.
This collection will not be available via the Shop Disney Parks app or Disney Parks online store at time of launch.
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In just a few short weeks, the fan-favorite Disney’s Easter program will return to Tokyo Disney Resort, and this year it’s even more egg-stravagant with celebrations at both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea! For the first time, you’ll also encounter the mischievous, bunny-eared Usatama egg characters, who bring with them a whole lot of mayhem and springtime fun.
A new parade – Usatama on the Run! – will debut as part of the celebration at Tokyo Disneyland, featuring Mickey and his pals chasing after the park’s newest troublemakers. Plus, catch a first glimpse of the legendary Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde on their own parade float. You can join in on the fun by participating in a special Usatama dance as the parade makes stops along the way.
You can also take part in an exciting new egg hunt at Tokyo Disneyland, following the clues on a special map to search for the hidden Usatama. And don’t forget your sticker reward when you find them all!
Head over to Tokyo DisneySea for the special Fashionable Easter show, performed by our Disney friends at the Mediterranean Harbor as they dance to music from four different ports. You’ll also find plenty of Easter decorations and exclusive merchandise all over the resort, including the must-have item of the season: an adorable bunny-eared Easter “Bunny” Bonnet.
All the fun begins on April 4! In the meantime, be sure to check out all our offerings in honor of Tokyo DisneySea’s 15th anniversary before the celebration ends this Friday. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more news from Tokyo Disney Resort.
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The chaotic, pushy remake of Disney’s 1991 screen musical “Beauty and the Beast” stresses the challenges of adapting a success in one form (animation) for another (live-action). We’re in for a long line of Disney remakes in the coming years: Everything from “Dumbo” to “Aladdin” is headed for a...
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It’s the week we’re all seeing GREEN… for St. Patrick’s Day! And if you’re in Disney World on March 17th (and even before), there are plenty of ways to celebrate the love of all things Irish.
St Patty’s Day Mickey Apple
Let’s start at Magic Kingdom, where the current Specialty Hot Dog at Casey’s Corner (available throughout the rest of March) is topped with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and wholegrain mustard.
©Disney
Follow it up with a St. Patrick’s Day Cupcake at the Main Street Bakery, which will be topped with a green and white vanilla buttercream frosting (and four leaf clover sprinkles to bring you a little luck o’ the Irish).
©Disney
Consider the Contemporary Resort for your next cupcake stop where Contempo Café will be serving the Leprechaun’s Pot of Gold Cupcake. This vanilla cupcake will feature lemon filling (tinted green, of course), with a dollop of yellow “gold” filling. The finishing touches will be green-swirled buttercream decorated with chocolate coins and sprinkles.
Contempo Cafe Entrance
Keep an eye out for another Leprechaun-themed cupcake at Epcot’s Fountain View.
Fountain View
Staying with sweets, The Ganachery in Disney Springs will offer Irish Stout Ganache, Irish Cream Ganache, and Irish Whisky Ganache all week through March 18th.
The Ganachery sign
But without a doubt, the biggest draw in Disney Springs for St. Patrick’s Day remains the Mighty St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Disney’s own Irish pub, Raglan Road.
Raglan Road
Celebrate with authentic Irish food, live music and dancers, beer, specialty cocktails, and more from March 16-19th.
Oh, did somebody say “BEER”?
Rose and Crown
Look for beer to be sporting the color green at the Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room in Epcot’s United Kingdom Pavilion throughout the day!
Green Cider in Epcot for St. Patrick’s Day
Happy St. Patrick’s Day to you, no matter where you’re celebrating!
Will you be wearing green at Disney World this St. Patrick’s Day? Please let us know with a comment!
Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and:
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The forecast of colder weather has prompted the closure of water parks at Walt Disney World and SeaWorld Orlando.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, which reopened Sunday after its annual maintenance period, and Disney’s Blizzard Beach, will not be open to guests on Wednesday or Thursday. It is scheduled...
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Yo ho, me hearties! This Saturday, March 18, marks 50 years of “rascals and scoundrels … villains and knaves” with the anniversary of Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland park, and we’re planning to celebrate with scoundrels and scallywags alike!
Beginning Thursday, March 16, guests can feast upon special pirate-themed grub at French Market Restaurant, Mint Julep Bar, Harbour Galley, Royal Street Verandah, Cafe Orleans and the one-of-a-kind Blue Bayou Restaurant.
Then the party really sets sail Friday, March 17, and on the attraction’s official anniversary, March 18. Guests will find pirate-themed entertainment throughout New Orleans Square by the likes of Bootstrappers and Lucky the Pirate. They can also plunder limited-edition anniversary merchandise, available in New Orleans Square while supplies last. And ye landlubbers who wish ter talk like a pirate – aye, ye’ll getcher chance … with pirate speak collectible cards. And stay sharp, because there will be even more to discover!
Since its March 18, 1967, debut, Pirates of the Caribbean has become a Disneyland park classic and fan favorite. This iconic attraction has gone on to pillage and plunder at Disney Parks around the world, with Pirates of the Caribbean attractions at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris and most recently, the award-winning Pirates of the Caribbean – Battle for the Sunken Treasure at Shanghai Disney Resort.
Come celebrate Pirates of the Caribbean with us at Disneyland park!
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Did you know that you can search previously asked questions on DisneyParksMomsPanel.com? This is a quick and easy way to find relevant information in a pinch. One of the most popular searches is for information on strollers at Walt Disney World Resort.
With strollers and stroller rentals being such a hot topic here at Disney Parks Moms Panel, we pulled together some top stroller tips from the moms, dads, and grandparents of the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
- Use your stroller to carry all your heavy items like cool drinks, sunscreen and extra clothes, instead of carrying it around on your back. But make sure valuables are packed in an easy to grab bag, so you can take them with you into line when you utilize stroller parking. – Andrea H.
- For kids under five, bringing your stroller from home is suggested, but for older ones, see how they do walking through the parks first. You can always rent a stroller later if you need to. – Jodie H.
- Make sure your stroller folds easily for quick boarding of busses or trams. – Jodi G.
- Bring an extra disposable rain poncho with you. Most stroller parking locations are outside, so you can throw it over your stroller, just in case, if it looks like rain while you are in line for an attraction. – Wilma N.
- It’s a good idea to pay for your whole stroller rental upfront, if you will be renting a stroller for multiple days, because you will receive a small discount for doing so. Plus, it makes picking up your stroller in the morning much simpler. – Todd D.
For more tips or to ask questions about planning your upcoming Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel.
Photo Credit: Lindsey P.
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Mysterious forces are converging upon Disney California Adventure park as The Collector’s arrival is imminent. Throughout the coming months, changes are underway as Taneleer Tivan, The Collector, prepares to welcome guests to view the newest acquisitions in his extensive collection: the Guardians of the Galaxy.
One of the first signs of The Collector’s arrival appeared recently, which we’ve caught this glimpse at, flying at the site of his emerging fortress. This shining flag bears the Tivan symbol and signifies his arrival. We hope to hear more from the Tivan Group throughout the coming months, as The Collector’s Fortress continues to emerge.
Explore this mysterious collection yourself when Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opens May 27 at Disney California Adventure park.
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Greetings from sunny California! We’re coming to you from Disneyland where the 2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival is in full swing!
The 2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Has Begun!
And the Festival is running EVERYDAY this year. So that means you’ve got from now through April 16th to try your top picks at this year’s FOURTEEN Festival Marketplace Booths.
To help you make your list, I’ve tackled each and every food item at ALL of them. Well, with the help of our Dining in Disneyland columnist and best west coast dine-around pal, Heather Sievers, of course!
Click here to check out photos AND prices of ALL the food at the Festival! (Allergy-Friendly Menus, Too!)
Overall, we found the food to be fantastic. It was much better than last year, and much MUCH better than Festival of Holidays. They’re thinking outside of the box and experimenting a little with flavors, and I commend that.
PLUS — prices are down and portion sizes are up. Both things that will definitely bring this festival back in line with expectations as opposed to last year.
2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Giftcard
We also found Cast Members to be completely awesome — well informed, knowledgeable, and gracious with all the opening day kinks. They were truly excited to talk to us about the food.
Off the Cob
While we found a LOT to love, there were also some dishes that didn’t impress us… .
Let’s take a look at the Best, Worst, and Weirdest (no joke) of the Fest. Read our thoughts below, or watch the video here to get a condensed version!
Best of the 2017 DCA Food and Wine Festival
These are all the dishes that had us at hello. We were mostly agreed, and when the vote was split between Heather and me, I’ll be sure to come clean!
Baked Ham and Swiss Cheese Croque Monsieur
The Baked Ham and Swiss Cheese Croque Monsieur Roll with Smoked Pistachios at the Nuts About Cheese Booth had SO much going on!
Baked ham and Swiss cheese croque monsieur roll with smoked pistachios
The Swiss Cheese is strong, but not necessarily sharp. The Ham was also remarkable — not the garden variety deli ham we anticipated. Everything was warm and all kind of melty together. I know! It totally doesn’t look like it! — which made for a nice surprise. The extra pop of salt, smoke, and color from the Smoked Pistachios elevated the pinwheel to something a little extra special.
Creamy Artichoke and Dark Chocolate Cake Pop
My next choice, the Creamy Artichoke and Dark Chocolate Cake Pop from I Heart Artichokes was a little, well, controversial.
Creamy artichoke and dark chocolate cake pop
That’s because I really, really loved it, and Heather, well…notsomuch. But I spoke to a few other folks who felt the same way as me, so it’s making the cut!
So — what do you get when you make Artichokes creamy and turn them into a cake pop? You might be surprised to find out that this tasted a lot like cookie dough to me!
Creamy artichoke and dark chocolate cake pop
Except…softer. Super soft cookie dough.
Orange Iced Tea with Orange Pearls
I hate iced tea. All iced tea. Except, apparently, for this one. The Orange Iced Tea with Orange Pearls tasted like a melted Orange Popsicle.
Orange iced tea with orange pearls
The Orange Pearls are the popping kinds, and gave us a little extra burst of flavor that made the drink even better.
And seriously, Disneyland, what is up with ALL the pearls??? Nearly every booth seemed to have a drink featuring those popping pearls. (We’re not talking about the candied ones or Boba, but the ones that you see above, which pop and contain liquid.) While we’re not exactly complaining, it was a little strange. I mean, did they get a deal at Costco or something? Weird.
Smoked Bacon Mac and Cheese with Barbecue-Seasoned Crispy Onions
Smoked Bacon Mac and Cheese with Barbecue-Seasoned Crispy Onions at Bacon Twist is super awesome. Of the two mac and cheese dishes at this year’s Festival (don’t worry; you know we’re gonna get to the other one in a sec), this was probably my favorite.
Smoked Bacon Mac and Cheese with barbecue-seasoned crispy onions
While the orange color may seem a little vibrant to have occurred in nature, the flavors are fantastic. But the toppings are what took the dish to the next level. Those Crispy Onions and Bacon were EVERYTHING. A marriage made in food heaven. Ask for extra topping if you can get it!
Maple-Bacon Whoopie Pie
Just like its predecessor last year, the Maple Bacon Whoopie Pie from Bacon Twist is a can’t miss.
Maple-bacon Whoopie Pie
The VERY moist cake features both Bacon and Apples in the perfect proportions, so the texture is spot-on. Besides, the lovely pillowy Icing at the heart of the matter is Cream Cheese. So. You know. This is basically killer.
Duck Confit on Potato Mash and Meyer Lemon Preserves
We have reached the point where I tell you what the Best of the Best is, and its name is Duck Confit with Potato Mash and Meyer Lemon Preserves. Find this amazing dish at Lemon Grove.
Duck confit on potato smash with Meyer lemon preserves
Duck Confit is one of my favorite things in the whole world when it’s done well, and this is perfect. The “smash” uses those yummy Tater Tots from DCA’s previous festivals, so the flavor is through the roof there. I didn’t taste a lot of Lemon in here, but never mind that. It’s a great portion size and an amazing dish. If you’re like me, you should plan to get this one more than once.
Meyer Lemon Ginger Mule
By and large, I say skip the cocktails at the Festival this year. The prices are completely ridiculous, and most of the portions are ludicrously small. (Seriously. I’m looking at you, Vodka Martini.)
But the one notable exception is the Meyer Lemon Ginger Mule at Lemon Grove.
Meyer Lemon Ginger Mule Cocktail
I’m not a huge Mule or Ginger fan, but the flavors were perfectly balanced here. It’s like a carbonated lemonade with a little ginger zing. Get it.
French Onion Mac and Cheese
Next, we arrive at our second Mac and Cheese item of the day, the French Onion Mac and Cheese at the Onion Lair. Super saucy Mac and Cheese is topped with Caramelized Onions, Parmesan Crumble, and Chives.
Seriously — how could we not?? Just look at it.
French onion mac and cheese topped with parmesan crumble and chives
This is CRAZY rich — like I don’t want to know how much Heavy Cream and Butter is happening here — and savory. Your kids might not love it, but YOU sure will. The Onions made the dish, so be sure to distribute them through the mac before you dig in.
Sweet Corn Nuggets with Beef Chili, Spring Onions and Sour Cream
Sweet Corn Nuggets with Beef Chili, Spring Onions and Sour Cream from Off the Cob is so unfancy, you guys. I mean, we ate an Artichoke Cake Pop a minute ago, and now we digging into Chili Cheese Fries?
It’s total pub grub! And we’re in love.
Sweet corn nuggets with beef chili, spring onions and sour cream
Despite the GIANT Scallions, the flavors are incredible. The Nuggets are wonderful little sweet-savory bites, but it’s the Chili that makes this dish.
White Cheddar Lager Soup Topped with Bacon, served in a Mini Boudin Sourdough Boule
Next, we come to Festival history and royalty: the White Cheddar Lager Soup Topped with Bacon, served in a Mini Boudin Sourdough Boule at Sweet & Sourdough.
This dish, in one form or another, has been at every single DCA Food and Wine Fest, right from the beginning. And with the Lager twist this year, it’s just as good, if not better.
White cheddar lager soup topped with bacon, served in a mini Boudin sourdough boule
We do miss the Bacon topper (looks a little boring, eh?), but the flavors don’t suffer. This is a hallmark festival dish. Do not miss it.
Milk Chocolate Sourdough Bread Pudding with Vanilla Bean Sauce
Time for more sweets — and the Milk Chocolate Sourdough Bread Pudding with Vanilla Bean Sauce, also at Sweet & Sourdough, fits the bill nicely. It’s sweet and pretty…just how I like my desserts! ;-D
Milk chocolate sourdough bread pudding with vanilla bean sauce
This simple Bread Pudding has rockstar flavors, and it’s not at all dry — which is the worst thing a bread pudding can be, imo. A big thumbs up for this one.
Dole® Pineapple-Strawberry Float with Vanilla Ice Cream and Strawberry Pearls
While we recommend you skip pretty much all of the cocktails at the Fest, there are some notable non-alcoholic drinks that are worth your time, money, and stomach space. One of our favorites is the Dole® Pineapple-Strawberry Float with Vanilla Ice Cream and Strawberry Pearls at LA Style.
Dole® Pineapple-strawberry Float with vanilla ice cream and strawberry pearls
This is a HUGE portion and packs a lot of flavor. While the Pineapple-Strawberry Juice on top is likely just something you can buy in the store, this one has SO MUCH Ice Cream! In fact, I have a feeling this portion size will be reduced before the Festival is over. We also really loved the little strawberry pearls in the mix. (Again. Pearls.)
If the portion is reduced, I’d leave it off the must-buy list. But for now, it’s a good option!
Worst of the 2017 DCA Food and Wine Festival
So yes, here’s where we tell you the truth: it’s not all fantastic. Read on to learn about the dishes we think that when you see them, you should just just Keep. On. Walking. The good news is the list is short.
Still. Take heed.
Almond Milk Tea with Pudding
We found the Almond Milk Tea with Pudding at Nuts About Cheese to be… confusing. To be more blunt, we all took one taste and started looking for somewhere to spit it out.
Almond milk tea with pudding
The offputting flavor combined with the gelatinous chunks of Pudding (more like a very stiff Panna Cotta, and we all know how I feel about THAT) at the bottom just did. not. work.
Almond milk tea with pudding
We get that this is a Hot New Thing. And we don’t have a problem with the drink-dish hybrid concept. But the flavors here were just…bad.
Jackfruit Carnitas Banh Mi Nachos with Cilantro Crèma and “Pickled” de Gallo
Next, we come to the Jackfruit Carnitas Banh Mi Nachos with Cilantro Crèma and “Pickled” de Gallo from Off the Cob. Our vote is in. This one is…disturbing.
I’m sorry. But just NO.
Jackfruit carnitas banh mi nachos with cilantro crèma and “pickled” de gallo
Yes, I get that some consider Jackfruit to be a vegan equivalent to pulled pork. But we stand confidently behind our assessment: This Should Not Be a Thing.
If anyone tells you that they can dress up jackfruit to make it savory and that it will taste just like carnitas….never believe them. Never. This was probably a victim of incorrect expectations, but if you call something carnitas nachos, it shouldn’t taste sweet.
I can’t be clear enough here without using much stronger language. We enjoyed nothing about this dish. Please, for the love. Skip it.
Weirdest of the 2017 DCA Food and Wine Festival
Garlic-Rosemary and Avocado Oil Ice Cream Pop
Finally, we arrive at our vote for the Weirdest Dish at the Fest: Garlic-Rosemary and Avocado Oil Ice Cream Pop from Garlic Kissed. This one was…fascinating.
We get it. Chef-types and the West Coast in particular are known for flavor innovation. And anyone who’s watched a Food Network competition has seen someone sneak garlic into ice cream before.
Garlic-Rosemary and Avocado Oil Ice Cream Pop
It was a little bit sweet and a little bit savory. More than anything, the pop is suuuuuper creamy, so thumbs up for that. The flavor, on the other hand, was, um, interesting. We definitely tasted the Rosemary as the prevalent flavor note, but neither of us could have eaten a whole ice cream pop. Or even half.
As we polled our fellow Festival goers, we found many people who loved it, and just as many who hated it. If you’re adventurous, don’t miss this one. But if you’ve got little kids, we’re pretty sure they’re not going to be into it.
And that’s a wrap on what you MUST eat — and what I think you should TOTALLY skip — at the 2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival!
Be sure to check out our photos of ALL THE FOOD at the Festival by clicking here!
We’ll be back with more from Disneyland soon!!
2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Index
2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index — NOW WITH PHOTOS AND PRICES FOR EVERYTHING!
2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminar and Demonstrations
2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Special Events
Epcot Festival Fans Facebook Page
2016 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Menus and FOOD PHOTOSHow to Book Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Events
Booking is available as of February 1 for all Low-Cost Seminar and Demonstrations as well as Premium Special Events! To obtain tickets, go to Disneyland.com or call (714) 781-DINE. (Please note: some events may only be available to book by calling.)
What are YOU most excited to try at this year’s Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival? Please let us know with a comment!
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