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Last month, on her 90th birthday, Irene Jewell, legendary dancer and wife of Disney cinematographer Stuart Jewell, visited Disneyland park for the first time. Known for her impressive height, Irene performed under the name Ricki Covette in the course of her 30-year career. She later met Disney cinematographer Stuart Jewell, known for his camera work on Disney’s “True-Life Adventures,” including “The Living Desert” and “The Vanishing Prairie.” He also produced much of the now-iconic time-lapse footage from the construction of Disneyland. But despite her own legendary status and connection to Disneyland history, Irene had never visited the park! So she thought her 90th birthday would be the perfect occasion. Irene arrived with her “Special Complimentary Main Gate Admission” ticket in hand, which she held onto for years. (She got to keep it, by the way.) She went on to enjoy a day of fun, including Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean and “it’s a small world” – three attractions she had specifically been looking forward to. When I asked whether Stuart has shared any of his Disneyland memories with her, Irene said, “He told me about opening day – they didn’t expect so many people! It was getting crowded, so he grabbed a camera and took a picture of Ronald Reagan, Bob Cummings and Art Linkletter that appeared in the paper.” If you’d like to see some of Stuart Jewell’s work, take a look at this time-lapse video, which we shared earlier this week. In the first few seconds, you can even see Stuart and his team prepping and installing the cameras! Irene Jewell Celebrates 90th Birthday with First Visit to Disneyland Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

OK — so you have a Walt Disney World Trip on the books for this year — Woohoo!! There’s nothing more exciting than counting down the days to when you’ll be back in the ‘World! But, even the most spontaneous Disney fan knows that planning ahead is the key to a stress-less vacay. And that mantra is absolutely true when it comes to dining. I know, I know. It’s hard to know what you’ll want to do in 3, 6, or even 12 months down the road. But knowledge is power! And when you know all about your choices, you can turn a great trip into a fantastic one! Besides, if you really want to dine in the hottest restaurants, you pretty much have to plan ahead. Be spontaneous, sure. But get a couple Advance Dining Reservations in place. But which ones? That’s where Disney Food Blog comes in! You already enjoy our reviews, news, and tips daily on our Blog. But did you know — that’s JUST the tip of the iceberg. Because we have lots more to share with you in our complete line of DFB Guides. Want to see the last petal drop at Be Our Guest Restaurant? Planning ahead is key! If you’re ready for a fun, easy way to personalize eating and drinking your way through Disney, then check out the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book. The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015Fully updated for your 2015-2016 adventures, the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 490 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subject — Disney foooood! So you save time and money as you enjoy planning one of the most important parts of your trip. And to thank all of you for your support of DFB, we are offering extra savings on our most popular DFB Guide today. Just enter promo code 2015 at checkout and you’ll save $4 off of our cover price of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book! But if you’d like to enjoy even more detail, check out another great offer. DFB Everything Bundle SALE!Want even more great information, pictures, and tips? Then the DFB Everything Bundle may be just the right fit for you. And to get you ready for that next big trip, we are offering the DFB Everything Bundle for $15 off the already low price! It’s like getting an entire book for free. Just enter promo code Everything15 at checkout to take advantage of this offer. The Everything Bundle includes, well, Everything! When you purchase this special bundle of DFB Guides, you’ll get it all: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 EditionThe Updated DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks The Updated DFB Guide to Epcot SnacksThe Updated DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios SnacksA Pre-Order of the 2015 DFB Guide to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadA Pre-Order of the 2015 DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays, and the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadDFB Dining AdventuresThat’s every book in our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides. And with the convenient e-book format, you can load your books onto as many electronic devices as you want. Have them at your fingertips, ready to plan and take with you into the Parks. Just download and off you go! The DFB Everything Bundle is already a terrific bargain at well below 40% off the individual prices of the books, but we’re excited to offer you these additional savings for a limited time. Enter promo code Everything15 at checkout to take advantage of this offer. Shop in confidence, knowing that all of our DFB Guides are 100% guaranteed. As always, we thank you for your continued support of Disney Food Blog! We couldn’t do this without all of you! 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: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Grand Launch Sale! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book: Pre-Order the 2015 Edition and Get the 2014 Edition FREE! Grand Launch Sale! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2013 e-Book View the full article

Recently in a kingdom not so far away, more than 24,000 Princesses and Princes made a 13.1-mile journey through Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot at the Disney Princess Half Marathon presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Some runners took just over an hour to complete their journey, and for others it took a little longer. No matter their ability they all followed the same path, triumphantly ran through Cinderella Castle, celebrated at the finish line, earned the coveted Disney Princess Tiara Finisher Medal and created runDisney memories that will last a lifetime. What was their experience like? With the help of 6 photographers from the Disney Yellow Shoes team, 13 cameras and tens of thousands of images, we can share their journey in just over two minutes. Once upon a time …… A special thanks to Disney photographers David Roark, Matt Stroshane, Kent Phillips, Ryan Wendler, Chloe Rice, Todd Anderson, and editor Bryan Smoker for their creativity in bringing this story to life. For more information on runDisney event weekends, I invite you to visit runDisney.com. Video Captures the Royal Experience of the Disney Princess Half Marathon at Walt Disney World Resort by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Once upon a time in a kingdom not so far away, more than 24000 Princesses and Princes made a 13.1-mile journey through Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot at the Disney Princess Half Marathon ...From:Disney ParksViews:7707116ratingsTime:02:35More inTravel & Events

I’m not sure what it feels like in your neck of the woods, but the calendar says it’s officially SPRING! And the season is ON at Walt Disney World, with new food items to help feed those spring break crowds (did somebody say “Grilled Cheese”?), as well as an egg-stra special Easter display at the Grand Floridian Resort. But that’s not all! There’s much more in store… so let’s hop to it, as we take another trip around the World to see What’s New! MAGIC KINGDOMBe Our Guest BreakfastHey, has anyone heard of some little dive by the name of Be Our Guest Restaurant? Be Our Guest in the First Light of Morning Well, in case you didn’t know about the Advance Dining Reservations heard ‘round the World, the popular restaurant is now open for BREAKFAST! Huge hits on the all-new prix fixe menu include the Open-Face Bacon and Egg Sandwich and the Croissant Doughnut. Open-Face Bacon and Egg Sandwich Croissant Doughnut and fresh fruit You can read our Opening Day Everything on the Menu review HERE! Sweet Treat MakeoversNot sure how long this gem will be around, but the Cinderella Coach Apple celebrating the recently released live-action “Cinderella” film sure is a beauty! Cinderella Coach Apple You can find it for a limited time at the Main Street Confectionery and Big Top Treats. (Keep an eye out at spots outside of Magic Kingdom like Goofy’s Candy Company and Sweet Spells, too!) A few of the Krispy Treats have joined in on the fun, as well… Cinderella Coach Apples and Krispy Treats Snack Location SwitcheroosLooking for your favorite Dole Whip or Citrus Swirl over in Adventureland? Citrus Swirl at Sunshine Tree Terrace Well, the homes for these beloved snacks have changed places. You see, Sunshine Tree Terrace — home of the Citrus Swirl — is now located where Aloha Isle used to be. And Aloha Isle, boasting its signature Dole Whip? It’s now located where Sunshine Tree Terrace used to be. New Aloha Isle location New Sunshine Tree Terrace location Confused? Fret not — you can read all about it here! Rumor has it that this all has something to do with a new restaurant on the horizon for Adventureland. (And what’s this we’re hearing about a possible Jungle Cruise theme?!) Time will surely tell! Speaking of location changes… If you’re hoping to enjoy a Jumbo Turkey Leg in Magic Kingdom, they’ll be available at Cool Ship in Tomorrowland starting TODAY. Cool Ship area Walt Disney World Turkey Leg This temporary move will allow for some regularly scheduled maintenance for the kitchens that provide the Turkey Legs to their typical locations in Frontierland and Liberty Square. They’ll return to their standard locations later this year. Fireworks PartyBooking has opened up for the new Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party. Wishes at Magic Kingdom Offering enhancements to what is currently the Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party, this new version of the party will debut on July 5th. (The final date of the Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party is the 4th of July.) Fun Test ItemWe tried some Cheeseburger Spring Rolls at the Adventureland Egg Roll Wagon! Adventureland Egg Roll Wagon Cross section of Cheeseburger Spring Rolls We’re not sure how long this test item will stick around, but we sure hope these tasty rolls make the cut! Magic Kingdom HubSome of the results of the Magic Kingdom hub construction are starting to be seen. Magic Kingdom Hub Magic Kingdom Hub Magic Kingdom Hub Magic Kingdom Hub The new strolling areas and fountains are beautiful, and while construction is still ongoing in other spaces around the hub, it’s wonderful to know guests have some more walking space in the area again. EPCOTTaste TrackOh, my… Gourmet Grilled Cheese has found its way to Future World!! Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich You can find these grilled gems at Taste Track (a temporarily open location outside of Test Track)… but only while they last! Taste Track Taste Track Menu — Click to Enlarge The Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon, Fontina and Tomato Basil, and Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches recently made their appearance for the spring break crowds, but we hope to see them pop back up in busier seasons throughout the year! Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Side of Tomato Basil Soup Fontina and Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese Sandwich — Cross Section Sunshine SeasonsWe’ve also recently enjoyed (and by “enjoyed,” I mean “fell madly in love with”) the Warm Peanut Butter Brownie at Sunshine Seasons in The Land Pavilion. Warm Peanut Butter Brownie in the Container Warm Peanut Butter Brownie — Cross Section You know how in the movies, some underdog gives a great speech and it’s all quiet — ‘cuz NO ONE expected it — but then one person sloooowly starts clapping and then another, and before you know it there’s all this thunderous applause? I kinda feel like we should all virtually band together and do that for Future World in honor of these treats. But that’s not to say that World Showcase, as per usual, doesn’t have its own trick up its sleeve… La Cava del TequilaI know, I know… La Cava del Tequila comes up a LOT in “What’s New!” But that’s because they always seem to be introducing some incredible new concoction, and why should this round be any different? La Cava del Tequila Sign La Cava del Tequila entrance inside the Mexico Pavilion It seems the great team over at La Cava is trying out a new La Cava Mango Sangrita chaser for those ordering up a tequila shot… or two. Or… . It’s made with mango, pineapple, orange, and habanero. DOWNTOWN DISNEYDisney Food TrucksThere have been changes to some of the menus at the Disney Food Trucks. While Superstar Catering has kept its awesome Pot Roast Sandwich, one of its new offerings is in very good keeping with this truck’s Hollywood Studios theme. Superstar Catering Food Truck “A Taste of Disney’s Hollywood Studios” serves a tomato-based soup in honor of Sci-Fi Dine-In, along with Cobb Salad and Grapefruit Cake from The Hollywood Brown Derby. Also look for a Pork Shank served with mac & cheese and topped with smoked bacon, and a Sausage and Caramelized Onion Flatbread. Grapefruit Cake at Hollywood Brown Derby Fantasy Fare (home of Hand-dipped Corn Dogs here on the east coast) has added a snack to its offerings: Sweet Potato Tots with Fluff and Candied Pecan topping. Sounds like all the great taste of Sweet Potato Casserole, with all the fun of Tater Tots! Fantasy Fare Food Truck Sugar-dusted sweet potato nuggets And the Sticky Chicken and Waffles received a makeover: Now they are “Game Day Waffles,” served as Buffalo-style chicken with Sriracha maple and blue cheese sauce, served with cornbread waffles. Remember: your best shot at catching the trucks is at their home base at Exposition Park in Downtown Disney’s West Side, but keep an eye out in various areas of Downtown Disney (a popular spot is outside the World of Disney Store in the Marketplace) in case you don’t see the one you were hoping for! Raglan RoadA new brew has debuted at Raglan Road in honor of… Raglan Road! Say hello to Raglan Red. Brewed in Ireland for Raglan Road! RESORTSPolynesian Village ResortThe Mixed Greens Salad is back at ‘Ohana, replacing the Lettuce Wraps that have been available since last June. ‘Ohana sign ‘Ohana menu Oh, and what’s behind this mysterious door knob? Trader Sam’s door knob I guess we’ll find out soon enough, when Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto opens its doors at long last — anticipated to happen before month’s end! Grand FloridianAnd last — but certainly not least — guests can enjoy the Fourth Annual Grand Floridian Easter Eggs Display in the lobby of the Resort through April 10th. Cinderella’s Coach Egg Enchanted Rose Egg Peacock Egg Can’t make it to this year’s display of edible artistry? Keep an eye out for an upcoming post here on DFB featuring the full display soon! Thanks for joining us on this little springtime stroll… And until next time, Eat and Be Happy! Have you spotted anything new during a recent trip around the World? We’d love to hear about it in 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: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: What’s New Around Walt Disney World: March 3, 2015 What’s New Around Walt Disney World: March 19, 2014! “Is This Place Ever Open?”: Sunshine Tree Terrace View the full article

Daytona Beach Police said they arrested one of two shooters in a Feb. 23 gun fight that injured three people at Bethune-Cookman University. View the full article

A newspaper is reporting that the voice recorder indicates that one of the pilots of the German plane that crashed in the French Alps was locked out of the cockpit before the jetliner plummeted into a remote mountainside. View the full article

A southbound SunRail train was involved in a crash with a Ford Freestyle in Maitland this evening. View the full article

KISSIMMEE — Cowboys on horseback, a cattle drive and rodeo queens — the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo is officially in town. View the full article

There's no Quantum love for Florida as Royal Caribbean has announced the home for Ovation of the Seas, and it's in China. View the full article

Julie Lopez-Elias spent the last moments of her life trying to save her children as the car they were in sank to the bottom of a Kissimmee retention pond. View the full article

The family of an 11-year-old boy is suing the Publix grocery chain, saying the child was allergic to nuts and died from a severe reaction after eating a cookie despite a worker's assurance it was safe. View the full article

If you haven’t experienced all of the frozen fractals during “Frozen Fun” at Disney California Adventure park, there’s still time! Whether you’re planning a spring or early summer visit to the Disneyland Resort, or you want to see “Frozen Fun” before its limited-time engagement ends May 15, this new Disneyland Resort Hotel offer puts you closer to the magic. Make reservations at any Disneyland Resort hotel from March 25 through May 7, 2015, to save 20 percent on premium rooms and 15 percent on standard rooms on Sunday through Thursday nights from April 5 to June 16, 2015. Don’t let the “Frozen” fun and this great offer melt away! Click here for more details. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at the same hotel. Travel must be completed by 06/17/15. Ask about savings in other room types. Not valid on previously booked rooms. Advance reservations required. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Excludes applicable fees and taxes. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required to enjoy “Frozen Fun” and the Parks. Enjoy ‘Frozen Fun’ Before it Melts Away and Stay Close to the Magic with Disneyland Resort Hotel Offer by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Two West Palm Beach men apparently got a hoot out of driving around with a wounded owl while they were purportedly drinking — and capturing it all on film, according to wildlife authorities. View the full article

Perhaps the most celebrated athlete in Orlando during the past month, Orlando City Lions soccer star Kaká purchased a $3.4 million house in the exclusive Isleworth neighborhood. View the full article

Great news, Disney fans! The merchandise event team just revealed details about their special Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration kick-off event taking place May 20-21, 2015. What will it entail? Shopping, seminars and entertainment are in the mix, but here’s the breakdown on everything else. Diamond Package – $100 Event admission includes panel discussion, signings and other entertainment and activities as follows: Merchandise Pick-up & Event Store ShoppingMerchandise Artists & Authors SigningsSilent AuctionTrading AreaEntertainment/Panel Discussion – “Disneyland Dreamers & Doers” with Mouseketeers Bobby Burgess and Sherry Van Meter, among othersOther event offerings include: ONE (1) Commemorative Disney PhotoPass Digital DownloadTWO (2) Commemorative GiftsFirst opportunity to pre-purchase select Diamond Celebration-themed merchandise via the Random Selection Process. View Merchandise Catalog here.Tickets for the Diamond Package are $100 per person and are limited to availability. No discounts apply. Reservations for the Diamond Celebration Merchandise Event will be accepted only via www.DisneyParksMerchandise.com beginning Thursday, March 26, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. (Pacific Time). Tip: Only one (1) Guest per reservation is allowed. It will be necessary for each Guest to register individually. So join us as we reminisce amongst friends, share cherished memories of the first 60 years and look forward to the next dazzling decades of our beloved Resort. Will you plan to go? Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration Merchandise Event Details Revealed by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Guests of Disney’s Hollywood Studios will want to “take five” at Studio Catering Company to check out the tasty new menu. The first new entrée is a braised pulled brisket sandwich with Munster cheese, arugula, and a creamy horseradish. If you are looking for a hearty sandwich to keep you full between takes (or attractions), try the Deli Sandwich with ham, salami, pepperoni, Provolone cheese, creamy pesto spread, pepper relish and Balsamic glaze. Guests looking for lighter fare will love the vegetable wrap with garlic herb spread. My favorite of the new entrees? The Panini with turkey, Swiss, Provolone and honey mustard with tomato basil soup. There are also two new sides available, in addition to French fries and apple slices, guests will also have the choice of house-made chips and tomato basil soup. These entrees join other new menu items throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner recently added gourmet macaroni and cheese—one featuring buffalo chicken and crumbled blue cheese and the other featuring barbecued pulled pork and crispy onions to the menu. The barbecued pulled pork wedge salad with bacon, roasted corn tomato salsa, crispy tortilla strips, cheddar, and jalapeño ranch dressing at Fairfax Fare is also not to be missed. That’s a wrap! New Menu to Debut at Studio Catering Company at Disney’s Hollywood Studios by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This summer is shaping up to be the Coolest Summer Ever at Walt Disney World Resort, with Frozen Summer Fun returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios among other exciting offerings at our parks. Now might be the perfect time to book your summer vacation, too, as our latest offer could save you up to 30% on select Walt Disney World Resort hotel rooms. Guests booking stays with this offer must book between March 23-June 12, 2015 for trips taking place between June 16-August 27. Click here for full details. Save Up To 30% On Select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels This Summer by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Here we goooooo, Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans! We’ve got the first word on a few Eat to the Beat concert line-up listings ALREADY for 2015! For those of you who may not know, Eat to the Beat is an Epcot concert series that takes place during the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, running this year from September 25-November 16. The series features musical acts from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and 00s each year, and concerts take place throughout most evenings of the Festival. Since this partial list is preliminary, be sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for additions and/or changes to the schedule! We will bring you all the latest news first! Eat to the Beat concerts are performed three times per evening, so you have three chances each night to see your favorites — 5:30PM, 6:45PM, and 8:00PM! 2015 Eat to the Beat Concert Line Up!Note that this schedule is subject to change. October 2-4 – Starship Featuring Mickey Thomas October 10-11 – 38 Special October 19-21 – Air Supply Taking in an Eat to the Beat Concert is a great way to unwind and continue the fun of the Food and Wine Festival into the evening. All concerts take place in the American Gardens Theater at Epcot’s America Pavilion. Concerts are free — included in the price of your Epcot admission! Many folks plan their trips around which bands will be playing, so we’ll be bringing you the bands and dates as soon as we get our hands on them! Check back with our 2015 Eat to the Beat Concert schedule frequently to see updates. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Performing at Eat to the Beat We can’t wait for more Food and Wine info to be released! Be sure to join our DFB Newsletter for Epcot Food and Wine Festival details! News! The DFB Guide to the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival e-Book is now available for Pre-Order! This 200+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Pre-order your 2015 edition today, and download the 2014 guide for FREE — immediately! Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Use code Chefs at check-out for a $3 discount!  What group do you enjoy seeing at the Festival? What group do you hope to see this year? Let us know in the comments below!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: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule 2011 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Announced Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Series Announced! View the full article

I am honored to announce that Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge were granted official accreditation once again by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The AZA accredits only those zoos and aquariums that meet the highest standards in animal management and care. Late last year, we hosted an AZA inspection team who assessed everything from the enrichment our animals receive (that stimulates their natural behaviors and provides them variety in their daily routines), to our veterinary program, our conservation and research and education programs, as well as our safety policies and procedures, security, physical facilities, guest services and the experience and quality of our staff. They look at everything from each part of the operation not only in animal care but from food and beverage to merchandise. It’s quite the process! After this review, the AZA Accreditation Commission deliberated and shared their decision to accredit Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge this past Sunday. Being accredited allows us to create and continue to nurture our relationships with other accredited organizations to work toward a common goal of conservation and saving species. Here are some of the wonderful and humbling comments AZA left with us: “The level and commitment to animal care sets the gold standard for our community. Veterinary, nutrition, training, browse program and enrichment programs are state of the art.”“The keeper staff is professional, passionate and engaged.”“Overall safety culture is extraordinarily strong across the organization, and staff training exceeds all expectations.”“Disney’s Animal Kingdom staff has been successful in making conservation a key value of The Walt Disney Company. The current positive impact and future potential of this change cannot be overstated.”“New interpretive programs, including Wilderness [Explorers] and Wild Africa Trek, add both breadth and depth to program offerings.”They also recognized the amazing amount of work going on with our upcoming expansion and praised our efforts to maintain a strong focus on animals, nature and conservation at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Renewing our accreditation also speaks to the importance we place on connecting kids and nature. Both the park and resort provide a quality experience to learn about animal and conservation in a fun, engaging environment. Congratulations to the Cast of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge once again. Wildlife Wednesday: Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Set ‘Gold Standard’ for Animal Care by Jackie Ogden, Ph.D.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Celebrate Magical Moments with your Family | Walt Disney World Being together as a family is what truly matters. But when you meet at Walt Disney World Resort, being together is not only special…it's magical! Let Walt Disney World show your family...From:Disney ParksViews:97664ratingsTime:00:32More inTravel & Events View the full article

Universal Orlando has begun testing the use of metal detectors at its roller coasters, the company confirms. Potential passengers for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit coaster at Universal Studios theme park started walking through detectors Wednesday morning. View the full article

I’m happy to announce the return of Art in The Garden to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. This annual artist showcase will be held from March 27-29 in several areas throughout World Showcase. Here is a brief listing of which artists will be featured during this year’s event. Guests can meet David Doss and Greg McCullough on the World Showcase Promenade from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day. David will release one of his newest images featuring Olaf enjoying summer, while Greg will have artwork featuring Winnie the Pooh and Friends. In the Puffin’s Roost at Norway Pavilion, guests can meet Larry Dotson from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day. I love his artwork featuring the Stave Church from the World Showcase Pavilion. Artist Reinhard Herzog will be in Glas Und Porzellan at Germany Pavilion from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. each day. Known for creating amazing glass-blown keepsakes, Reinhard will release two new ornaments that resemble a bride and groom. He will also have other glass-blown items available for personalization during the event. Finally, while not art related, I encourage you to attend the free cooking demonstrations held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Port of Entry at the entrance to World Showcase. The 15-minute demos begin at 3:00 p.m. each day and offer guests an opportunity to meet a Disney chef. Art In The Garden Returns to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 27-29, 2015 by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As a part of my job I occasionally get to spend some time sorting through our photo archives here at Walt Disney World Resort, and every time I do, I seem to stumble upon something I just have to share with you Disney history fans. Such was the case when I came upon this rare photo of Orange Bird at Magic Kingdom Park. Over the years, we’ve released several pictures of Orange Bird in his native environment of Adventureland (and during his brief stint at Downtown Disney), but what’s unique about this photo is that it was snapped on June 11, 1971 – several months before the park’s October 1 opening. You can see that construction on Tropical Serenade (now Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room) was still underway in the background. Maybe he was looking for the perfect place to build his own birdhouse? After the park opened, Orange Bird greeted families near Sunshine Tree Terrace for several years, where guests could also buy citrus drinks and Orange Bird merchandise. Orange Bird also once had his own record, which was released in 1971 to feature a tune called “The Orange Bird Song” that was composed by the Sherman Brothers (of “Mary Poppins” fame). Orange Bird returned to Magic Kingdom Park in April 2012, when an Orange Bird statue was retrieved from the WDI Sculpture Studio in California and returned to the land’s Sunshine Tree Terrace. Today, guests can still find Orange Bird cups and merchandise at Magic Kingdom Park. For more Orange Bird, check out the posts below: Disney Parks Blog Team Unveils Orange Bird Photo OppHistoric Orange Bird Returns to Adventureland at Magic Kingdom ParkRare Photos Found of Historic Orange Bird at Downtown DisneyVintage Walt Disney World: The Orange Bird Then and NowFound Photo: Orange Bird Visits Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park, 1971 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Frozen Fun has taken over the Backlot area of Disney California Adventure, and with it come some pretty tasty snacks. Let’s head inside of Olaf’s Snow Fest and see what Arendelle has to offer. Olaf’s Snow Fest The lighting inside of Olaf’s Snow Fest is very pink, so it made for a tough photo spot. Adorable nonetheless though! A snack area in the corner is set up so that visitors to Arendelle can recharge after playing in the snow. Although there is only one spot to order, the area is organized to look like separate food booths with different offerings. Arendelle Eats The menu is set up in the center of the snack area. Snow Fest Menu Board On my recent visit, I tried just about everything they had to offer! Arendelle Offerings The first cooler in the snack area of Olaf’s Snow Fest consists of a few prepackaged eats and bottled soda & water. Here you can grab a Crunchy Snowman Veggie Cup. The “Snowman” is filled with fresh veggies like jicama, carrots, celery, and cauliflower. It’s packaged to look like a snowman and comes with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. Crunchy Snowman Veggie Cup Not in the mood for jicama? Grab a Duke of Cheeselton Cheese Platter. I swear, that’s what it’s really called. This snack will set you back $7.99. It’s filled with cheese, crackers and some grapes. Duke of Cheesleton Cheese Platter In this same area you can find Olaf’s Just Chillin’ cupcakes. Olaf Cupcakes The cupcakes are vanilla cake with vanilla frosting and an edible chocolate Olaf face. I thought the head/body proportion was a little bizarre on these. I do love the striped cupcake wrappers though. I don’t think I’ve ever seen them used at the resort before. Just Chillin’ Next to the refrigerated case you’ll find the sign for Arendelle Warmer Uppers. Arendelle Warmer Uppers I will tell you right now that Gunvar’s White Hot Chocolate is a MUST try when you hit Olaf’s Snow Fest. The menu board calls it Warm Hugs Hot White Cocoa, but I prefer using the Gunvar moniker. The white hot chocolate comes with House Made Minty Marshmallows that will instantly beautify your tasty warm beverage. On the day I visited, the minty marshmallows were blue, but I’m told that they have been spotted in pink as well. Gunvar’s White Hot Chocolate Here are the lovely marshmallows on display. With each order of White Hot Chocolate you are given two marshmallows to put into your drink. House Made Minty Marshmallows I took a bite of one before dropping it in! Squishy, minty & delicious. Taste Test! Your white hot chocolate will instantly start to turn a beautiful shade of blue! White Hot Chocolate Transforming to Blue Hot Chocolate Looking for something cold to sip on? The Summertime Blues Frozen Cooler will satisfy your icy craving. Summertime Blues Frozen Cooler Served in a double sided souvenir cup featuring Olaf on one side and Anna & Elsa on the other, this generously portioned blue raspberry slushie is a really sweet treat! And I mean that literally, very very sweet! Yummy, but sweet. Did I mention it was sweet? Also, please note that the base on the photo below is not how thick the actual base of the cup is. It’s displayed here on a rotating stand. Summertime Blues Frozen Cooler Souvenir Sipper There are a few “Warm and Delicious” (per above menu) snacks to choose at Olaf’s Snow Fest: Rock Troll Festival Meat Balls and Kristoff’s Corn Dog Bites. They also serve the amazing Snowberry Twist that we previously reviewed from Maurice’s Treats. Warm Snacks at Olaf’s Snow Fest I did try both the Kristoff’s Corndog Bites and Rock Troll Festival Meatballs. Of the two I preferred Kristoff’s Corndog Bites. For $5.49 you get 5 corndog bites Kristoff’s Corndog Bites Signage Kristoff’s Corndog Bites are by no means comparable to the hand dipped corndogs served at Corn Dog Castle, but they are pretty great! Perfect for sharing, the not so mini corn dog bites have a crisp outside and a juicy center. Ketchup and mustard packets are available for your dipping pleasure. Kristoff’s Corn Dog Bites If you’ve ever had the meatballs at Ikea, then you’ll know exactly what the Rock Troll Festival Meatballs taste like. Rock Troll Festival Meatballs Signage I’m seriously wondering if they are purchased straight from Ikea; very much a cafeteria type dish. The description reads “Creamy sauce melted over Scandinavian meatballs served with a lingonberry drizzle.” I thought they were just ok, a little too bland. I’d choose the corndogs over them any day. Rock Troll Festival Meatballs In addition to the savory treats, there are lots of sweet treats to choose from. Olaf’s Snow Fest offers the super refreshing Olaf Frozen Lemonade Strawberry Bar. I was able to try this at the Frozen Dessert Party during my December visit to Walt Disney World. I’ve also seen them around the Disneyland Resort at the frozen treat carts. They are tart, but delicious! Olaf Lemonade Strawberry Frozen Bar I did not try the Caramel Corn or Fluffy Snowy Cotton Candy, but I did think the packaging was cute! Caramel Corn with Olaf Packaging The Fluffy Snowy Cotton Candy is white in color and I was told it is “regular” cotton candy flavor. Cotton Candy You can never go wrong with a Crisp Rice Treat. They come in two fun designs, both featuring Olaf. Olaf Crispy Rice Treat We chose the one with a close up of Olaf. I LOVE Disney’s Crispy Rice Treats, but I’m not a fan of the edible images. I usually peel them off. Olaf’s Snowflake Crisp Rice Treat Ok… Let’s talk about the “Royal Sisters” Shortbread Cookie. It was the only item I tried that I actually did not like at all. Royal Sisters Shortbread Cookie Although it is gorgeous, this cookie was really dry and had very little flavor. The cookie consisted of two pieces of shortbread sandwiched together with an edible image in the center. The snowflake cut out made the image visible and the two pieces were “glued” together with an unrecognizable fruit flavor spread. I dissected the cookie to try and get a better look at what was in the middle. I was really hoping for this cookie to be delicious, but it was very sub par. More fruit filling would have improved it a little bit! Dissected Royal Sisters Shortbread Cookie Looking for a little hands on activity? Grab one of the tables at Olaf’s Snow Fest and check out the “Do you want to build a snowman?” Cookie Kit. For $5.59 you get everything you need to build and eat your own snowman cookie. Cookie decorating supplies include frosting, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, candy corn and pretzel sticks. Do you want to build (and eat) a snowman? Over in the merchandise area of Olaf’s Snow Fest, you can grab Olaf Caramel Apples and Olaf Marshmallow Wands. I did not have them on this trip, but I have had them in the past and both are great! Olaf Caramel Apples and Olaf Marshmallow Wands Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Olaf’s Snow Fest. If you’re a Frozen fan or have one in tow, the area is not to be missed. It’s themed perfectly, you can meet Olaf himself, snack on some tasty eats and there’s snow to play in, REAL snow! I don’t know an exact date, but I believe that Frozen Fun including Olaf’s Snow Fest will be at Disney California Adventure through mid May. I do know that the Mad T Party is returning as part of the Disneyland 60th Anniversary on May 22nd, so I am guessing the area will close down a bit before that to prepare for the new Mad T Party reveal. There’s still plenty of time to visit Olaf’s Snow Fest, and in this current So Cal heat, it’s a great place to cool off! Have you been to Olaf’s Snow Fest? Did you try any of the food offerings? What did you think? Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here! 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