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TAVARES — A 20-year-old Tavares High School student was arrested Friday morning after a handgun was found in his vehicle on campus, according to a Lake County Sheriff's official. View the full article

I’m beyond excited to give you a first look at some new merchandise coming this year to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort at Walt Disney World Resort. I’ve been looking forward to this story for months as my entire apartment is decorated like a Polynesian paradise. You may remember the sneak preview I shared this past January of the Tiki figurine shown above. I recently visited the resort to capture an image of that same figurine in a lush, tropical setting. I also found a few other things that I’m sure you’ll enjoy! Disney Design Group artists created a comprehensive style guide for this resort logo program. This guide contained Disney character sketches, patterns, backgrounds and more that were applied to a variety of items. The adult and kids shirts pictured above utilize some of those style guide elements. The Minnie Mouse image from the T-shirt was also used on a long-sleeved hoodie (I love the resort logo name on the sleeve). I was delighted to see new Aloha shirts for adults and kids (now my son and I can match while enjoying Dole Whips from the Pineapple Lanai). Those shirts combine character sketches from the T-shirts along with the Tiki figurine. The tote bag also contains an image of that Tiki figurine and it’s perfect! Other souvenir items will include a key chain, a decorative frame, and window decals. The resort will have an open edition logo pin. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto will have an open edition logo pin and a limited edition pin for the grand opening. Some of my favorite items, however, are the amazing Tiki mugs that are coming to the resort. There will be two different mugs, each with the resort’s logo found on the back side. The first two colors for these mugs are shown in the image above. Look for three additional color variations for each mug to be released throughout this year at the resort’s merchandise shops. Besides the Tiki mugs, I can’t wait to get my hands on the Aloha shirt inspired by Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. The shirt’s colors were inspired by colorful tile once used inside Great Ceremonial House. As you can tell from this image, I’m already waiting to enjoy this happy hideaway that is soon to become my second home away from home. These items will be released at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort this year; we will not be carrying them on our Disney Parks online store. Preview of New Merchandise Coming to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort at Walt Disney World Resort by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The 73-year-old man who disappeared a week ago is enjoying a morning with his family today. View the full article

Just a few weeks ago, as the sun started to rise on a cool day in late February, Disney’s Animal Kingdom welcomed its second white rhino calf of 2015 into the herd! This one’s a girl and it’s the tenth white rhino baby to be born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! As we welcome this newest baby and work to deliver uncompromising excellence in animal care for the animals here at the park and across The Walt Disney Company, we haven’t forgotten about their relatives in the wild. Last year, rhinos faced the worst poaching in history, so we continue to support conservation efforts for this and many other vulnerable species around the world. Much long term work to save this species is needed in the wild, but it’s important to celebrate small victories and our animal care team definitely has much to celebrate with seemingly back-to-back white rhino calves born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom this year. While our newest mom and calf won’t make their debut out on the savannas of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve for a couple of months, our newest calf needs a name and this time the choice is yours! The animal care team narrowed it down to four options, so please help us choose which name you like best for her. Take a look at the heart-warming pictures in the photo gallery and choose your favorite name below. Be sure to rally your friends to make sure your favorite name wins! Vote to Name a New Baby Rhino Girl at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!GallerySpecial Edition Wildlife Friday: Vote to Name a New Baby Rhino Girl at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! view allVoting will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, March 26. We’ll reveal the winning name soon after that! Tell us which name you voted for and why in the comments below. Special Edition Wildlife Friday: Vote to Name a New Baby Rhino Girl at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! by Karen Jasmin: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

A NEW VERSION of the Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party will make its debut on Sunday, July 5th, at Magic Kingdom! ©Disney The “Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party” will offer enhancements to the very popular Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party (the final date of the Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party will be July 4th). You can see our review of the Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party here. Guests will experience reserved seating areas and raise a sparkling cider toast as “Wishes” begins. Wishes at Magic Kingdom Of course, desserts will remain a key factor in the celebration, and Disney has revealed plans for offerings such as chocolate-dipped strawberries, chocolate mousse, and ice cream. New menu additions will include seasonal fruit and cheese assortments along with Disney character cupcakes. Additions to the beverage line-up will include hot chocolate and signature lemonades. Dessert Parties have become a popular enhancement to fireworks at Disney World The price for the new dessert party is $49 for adults, and $29 for children (including tax). Reservations for this experience open on Friday, March 20th, via the Walt Disney World website or by calling (407) WDW-DINE. Did you attend the current dessert party in the Magic Kingdom? Would you pay twice as much for extra menu items? 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: Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party Photos! Wishes Dessert Party Extended Through December 2010 Magic Kingdom Wishes Dessert Party Extended into January 2010 View the full article

A 58-year-old woman was arrested Wednesday after authorities found out her grandchildren were sleeping on the floor with their arms chained to a washing machine with dog collars, an arrest affidavit said. View the full article

Just before sunrise, I was looking for silhouettes of Sleeping Beauty Castle to photograph for a Disney Parks After Dark blog post. I was pretty happy with the photos I had taken thus far, but I was still trying to find something more interesting. Then suddenly, without being cued, a flock of noisy crows flew by on the other side of the castle. I was glad I didn’t stop shooting when they flew by, because I like how the photograph turned out – especially their silhouettes in the sky. GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allDisney Park After Dark: A Photo to Crow About from Disneyland Park by Paul Hiffmeyer: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

What happened this morning at Magic Kingdom Park was really cool: to the cheers of thousands of guests gathered on Main Street U.S.A. and in front of Cinderella Castle, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels performed two flyovers of the theme park. Six F/A-18 Hornet jets that were traveling from their home base in Pensacola, FL, to an air show in the state, used the opportunity to entertain and inspire guests. Traveling more than 250 mph, these jets capable of super sonic speeds roared down Main Street U.S.A. holding the tradition Delta Formation on their first pass. After quickly turning around the jets returned and executed a Delta Break over Cinderella Castle. This was a magical flight these pilots and park guests will not soon forget. Your chance to experience the excitement is one click away on the video box above. U.S. Navy Blue Angels Roar Down Main Street, U.S.A. at the Walt Disney World Resort by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

To the cheers of thousands of guests gathered on Main Street U.S.A. and in front of Cinderella Castle, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels performed two flyovers. http://di.sn/60072Wb1 Read more on...From:Disney ParksViews:21949381ratingsTime:01:17More inTravel & Events

Belle Vue Lounge is one of those Disney spots. Learn About: Belle Vue LoungeBoardwalk Restaurants Disney World RestaurantsYep — it’s a hideaway…that only the cool kids know about. True, I love Disney Bars and Lounges. A lot. They’re some of my favorite spots on property, and they’re awesome for some many reasons. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax after a long day, meeting friends, or even grabbing a bite to eat without an Advance Dining Reservation. Well, Belle Vue is a bit different than some of my other favorites, like Territory Lounge or Tambu Lounge. Belle Vue doesn’t serve food, except at breakfast, when they offer light continental options, coffee, and a few other beverages. So you won’t find signature Pub Grub like Fondue or Pulled Pork Nachos here. But you will find loads of relaxing, beautiful atmosphere. The Belle Vue Lounge in Disney’s BoardWalk Inn And if you happen to encounter a helpful bartender (and the long-time bartender here is always helpful), you may be able to enjoy a Belle Vue classic. The Shadow at Belle Vue LoungeYou’ll mostly find the Standard Disney Bar Menu here. It’s a little sad…because this place could be even more awesome with an inspired drink menu. But there is one bright spot. And oddly, it’s called The Shadow. This drink is Belle Vue’s claim to fame, even though it’s not officially on the menu anymore. A mixture of Chambord, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, Vanilla Vodka, and Heavy Cream, it’s as much dessert as it is a cocktail. The Shadow at Belle Vue Lounge It’s not really my kind of drink. I don’t usually go in for sweet and creamy in the cocktail department. But I can see the appeal. And honestly, it is just fun to take part in what has become a classic at this long-time favorite lounge. So if Disney food and drink history is your thing, and you like a decadent nightcap, drop by Belle Vue for The Shadow the next time you get the chance. Want to Know More About Disney’s Wonderful Bars and Lounges?We’ve got TONS of Disney World Dining Tips — including a Comprehensive Index of All of Disney World’s Spectacular Bars and Lounges! — in our big, bold, 490-page DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 — and the guide is your ticket to planning your best Disney trip yet! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With sample dining itineraries, plus our “Disney Dining at a Glance” section, featuring “Where Can I Find?” options, you’ll have everything you need to plan the best vacation ever. Click here to get your copy of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 E-book — and use code 2015 for an extra $4 discount for a limited time! Have you experienced the Shadow at Belle Vue for yourself? Leave a comment and tell us what you think of it! 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: Review: River Belle Terrace Breakfast at Disneyland Park News! Dates for the 2015 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Announced Review: The Tambu Lounge in Disney’s Polynesian Resort View the full article

A child's first Disney visit is full of wonder. And for a limited time this summer at Walt Disney World® Resort, they can also experience special Frozen fun, including a sing-along stage...From:Disney ParksViews:208163ratingsTime:00:46More inTravel & Events

Imagine enjoying an exclusive, unforgettable view of the fireworks over Cinderella Castle while you indulge in a decadent dessert experience. The newly enhanced Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party at Magic Kingdom Park allows you to do just that. Beginning July 5, 2015, Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party at Magic Kingdom Park will be enhanced and transformed into the Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party. Relax in a reserved seating area with family and friends over delicious desserts and beverages. GalleryReservations Open March 20 for the Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party at Magic Kingdom Park view allDelight in a selection of themed desserts prepared daily by our pastry chef including chocolate-dipped strawberries, chocolate mousse, and ice cream. Delectable new additions to the menu include a variety of seasonal fruit and cheese, Disney character-themed cupcakes, and more! As the fireworks begin, celebrate with a sparkling cider toast and create a special memory with family and friends. Throughout the evening, you can now enjoy hot drinking chocolate and signature lemonades as well as coffee and tea. Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party is $49 for adults, $29 for children, tax included. Reservations can be made beginning on March 20 by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine, or calling 407-WDW-DINE. Remember, you can also make your next visit to Epcot extra sweet by making a reservation to enjoy the IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party during the Epcot nighttime fireworks spectacular. Reservations Open March 20 for the Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party at Magic Kingdom Park by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Two years ago this month, we were looking forward to exciting things at Disney Parks, but we were also looking back at some memorable milestones. Take a look at these three trips back in time that we took our readers on in March 2013. Today in Disney History: Journey Into Imagination Opens at Epcot Jennifer took us back to March 5, 1983, for the opening of Journey Into Imagination at Epcot. Vintage Walt Disney World: Building an Animal Kingdom Nate took us back in time for a look at the construction of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. A Look Back: 1958 Opening of the Grand Canyon Diorama at Disneyland Park George shared these rare photos of Walt Disney at the 1958 opening of the Grand Canyon Diorama. Disney Parks Blog Time Capsule: March 2013 by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Little ones share their favorite memory from Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World! http://di.sn/60012bcU SUBSCRIBE: http://di.sn/q7h About Walt Disney...From:Disney ParksViews:225564ratingsTime:01:01More inTravel & Events

This week, our Learn to Draw animation series continues with a lesson on how to draw the lovable scoundrel Flynn Rider from “Tangled.” Check out the video below for step-by-step instructions from artist Mike Chovanec of the Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For previous animation tutorials on some of your favorite Disney characters, check out the list below: Learn to Draw Aladdin’s Pal, Genie, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Tinker Bell at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Buzz Lightyear from ‘Toy Story’ at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Special Edition: ‘Frozen’ Voice Actor Josh Gad Tests His Skills at Drawing OlafLearn to Draw Mickey’s Pal Pluto at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Hiro from ‘Big Hero 6′ Learn to Draw Baymax From ‘Big Hero 6’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Rapunzel’s Buddy, Pascal, at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Stitch at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Winnie the Pooh at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Jack Skellington at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Oswald the Lucky Rabbit at Disney’s Art of Animation ResortLearn How to Draw ‘Frozen’s’ Anna at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Disney Characters at Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosDo You Want to Draw a Snowman? Learn How at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw: Flynn Rider from ‘Tangled’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This week, our Learn to Draw animation series offers up a lesson on how to draw the lovable scoundrel Flynn Rider from “Tangled.” http://di.sn/60062Wa0 Read more on the Disney Parks Blog:...From:Disney ParksViews:1884100ratingsTime:21:03More inTravel & Events

Public service announcement: this Sunday is National Goof Off Day. Do not let the opportunity to act silly pass you by! In its honor, I offer this photograph of Goofy from 1984 at the Tomorrowland Speedway. But just like Goofy, no matter how silly you may be, safety first! He’s even buckling up for his race around the speedway. He’s one smart guy. Disney Days of Past: National Goof Off Day by Nate Rasmussen: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Many of us have been there — you’re trying to plan the best and most delicious vacation, but when it comes to Disney Kids’ Meals, the options can seem pretty ho-hum at first glance. But there’s more to eating with small fry in Disney World than meets the eye! We first told you about Unique Kids’ Meals a while back in a Tip from the DFB Guide. But times marches on, and menus evolve. And since we first visited the subject, Disney has committed to offering guests healthier eating options — and that includes Kids’ Meal reforms. We’ve fully updated the DFB Guide again this year, and I thought it was the perfect time to revisit Unique Kids’ Meals at Walt Disney World! These tips come to you courtesy of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2015! And if they’re helpful to you, pick up your copy of the Guide today for $4 off using code “2015” right here! Mickey Check MealsWe can’t begin to discuss Disney World Kids’ Meals without at least touching on the biggest change to come to children’s menus in the history of the Resort. We’re talking about Mickey Check Meals. Part of the Disney Magic of Healthy Living Initiative, the meals are designated on Disney restaurant menus with the “Mickey Check” Symbol. Meals earning the Mickey Check meet the Disney Nutrition Guidelines and limit the amount of sodium, sugar, and saturated and trans fats. In addition, they must also include at least three of the following: fruits and vegetables,low-fat dairy,whole grains, and/orlean protein, beans, eggs, and/or nuts.So what’s the bottom line? The guidelines have certainly challenged Disney chefs to come up with some interesting meals as a result. Turkey Meatloaf at Be Our Guest Restaurant…Super Cute! But Not So Delicious But how do they taste? Wellllll…my jury is still out on that one. While I commend Disney for offering healthier options to guests who are in search of them, the Disney Check Meals that I’ve seen and tasted personally…let’s just say they have a long way to go before taste catches up with the requirements. A la Carte and Appetizers as Kids’ MealsIf you aren’t using a Disney Dining Plan, then another great idea for a Unique Kids’ Meal option is to order a la carte sides or appetizers instead of something from the Kids’ Menu. This strategy works great for a couple of different reasons. Even with all of the improvements to kids’ meals across the parks and resorts, some Disney restaurants lag behind a bit, and the options can be a little, well, boring. After all, you can only eat Chicken Nuggets so many times. So it’s a great way to get your young, adventurous eater something tastier and more satisfying. Smoked Chicken Quesadillas, a Whispering Canyon Cafe Appetizer, is a Great Meal Choice for an Adventurous Kid It’s also a great idea when kids aren’t hungry enough to do a full meal justice. After all, a day of Disney Parks usually means, meal, snack, meal, treat, snack, meal! (Oh, and don’t forget special drinks!) The chances of getting to meal time with a not-so-hungry kid in tow are pretty excellent. Some More Interesting Kids’ Meal Menu OptionsBut where does this leave us when it comes to actual Kids’ Menu meals? Well, there are some pretty good options — especially in the realm of table service restaurants. If Junior has carnivore tendencies, check out the St. Louis Style Pork Ribs at Rainforest Cafe. (Check out our review of the ribs as part of an adult entree here.) For kiddos with vegetarian leanings, I love the option of a half-size Grilled Vegetable Sandwich at Studio Catering Company. (I review the same sandwich at Backlot Express in this post.) A Half Portion of the Grilled Vegetable Sandwich at Studio Catering Company is a Great Kids’ Meal Option! Raglan Road Irish Pub at Downtown Disney offers a kids’ version of their popular Dalkey Duo — Battered Sausages with a Creamy Mustard Sauce for dipping. And don’t forget dessert! Some of the most creative sweet endings at Disney restaurants are found on Kids’ Menus. The Spaghetti and Meatball Cupcake at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is a showstopper! Spaghetti and Meatball Cupcake at Mama Melrose’s! So Fun! And I wanted my very own Peanut Butter Turtle during dinner at Sanaa recently. Peanut Butter Turtle at Sanaa. I Want My Own Seriously. Grab your own serving on this one. Your kid isn’t gonna wanna share. Ready for All of Our Best Tips?We’ve got TONS of Disney World Dining Tips — including great information for scoring healthier eats for you and your kiddos — in our big, bold, 490-page DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 — and the guide is your ticket to planning your best Disney trip yet! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With sample dining itineraries, plus our “Disney Dining at a Glance” section, featuring “Where Can I Find?” options, you’ll have everything you need to plan the best vacation ever. Click here to get your copy of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 E-book — and use code 2015 for an extra $4 discount for a limited time! Now let’s hear from all of you! What are your best tips for providing kids with interesting eats around Walt Disney World? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts! 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: Unique Meals for Kids: A Tip From the DFB Guide Tips from the DFB Guide: Healthier Options in Walt Disney World Tips from the DFB Guide: The Best Spots for Coffee and Tea in Walt Disney World View the full article

It’s that time of year the temp is going up, up, up! Summer is right around the corner. And that means gathering with friends and family for fun in the sun — Disney style! We are super psyched that Summer is almost here! And we don’t want you to miss a single second of all that’s happening during this busy season. And that’s why we’d love to have you join the DFB Newsletter today! But AJ, Why Should I Join the DFB Newsletter?You and I know all about it: there’s a LOT to cover when it comes to Disney Food. Throw in the busiest time of the year, and you kick it up — well, a bunch of notches! And to cover all that’s happening at all of the Disney Parks this time of year on the Blog is a tall order. So we offer even more Disney Food News to you via our Newsletter. What makes it even better? It’s delivered straight to your inbox! If you love Disney Food, then you’ll love our Newsletter. Twice a month, we’ll send it to you, brimming with full-color photographs and exclusive content. A Delicious Bite of Warm Peanut Butter Brownie at Sunshine Seasons in Epcot You’ll enjoy features like our Munch of the Month Series, and we’ll also keep you in the know about breaking news and events, like free dining announcements, in special editions! Our Newsletter community is also the first to hear announcements of special offers and events, such as DFB Guide Sales and Snack Attack Events! Join today and you’ll receive an email from me welcoming you onboard. Then stay tuned for more DFB goodies! As always, we appreciate your support of DFB! 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: Join the DFB Newsletter TODAY for Exclusive Holiday Deals! Sign Up for the DFB Newsletter and Stay in the Know! Know Before You Go! Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter! View the full article

We've all felt that rush of excitement or burst of childlike enthusiasm that is your Disney Side — that part of your personality that only comes out when you're in a Disney Park. http://di.s...From:Disney ParksViews:3735103ratingsTime:00:34More inTravel & Events

The last time we visited Animal Kingdom’s Dawa Bar here on the DFB, it was to show you a little bit around what was then its new location. Learn About: Dawa BarAnimal Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsIt hadn’t moved very far… you can still find the Dawa Bar tucked under the same roofing that provides shade for guests waiting to dine at Tusker House, though now — facing Tusker House — you’ll see the Dawa Bar on your right instead of your left. Aside from the small location switch to accommodate Animal Kingdom construction and a fresh coat of paint, not much has changed at the Dawa Bar (with the exception of the Bloody Mary menu added last fall). And I’m inclined to say that’s a pretty good thing. Today we’re trying some of those classic drinks that bring guests back to the Dawa Bar time and time again (and grabbing one of those Bloody Marys while we’re at it). Dawa Bar AtmosphereI’d mentioned the high rate of return for Dawa Bar guests, but I think over the past year some new folks have made the discovery, too. Maybe I’m just imagining it, but it does seem to me that the new location has brought more guests to this fabulous little oasis. Dawa Bar It’s just a lot easier to see the bar while strolling in Harambe Village from its current location, whereas previously it was tucked toward the back and somewhat hard to spot unless you knew it was there. For that reason, it seems to have lost just a bit of its “hidden gem” status, but it’s managed to keep that “this is my Disney vacation home away from home” feel — in no small part thanks to the great bartenders and relaxing vibe. Bartender at Dawa Bar Dawa Bar-tender ! The cooling shade is another draw here, and the stools and neat chairs invite you sit and stay a while. Mismatched chairs Even though it’s probably the least comfortable, you’ve gotta love the conga chair. Even if you don’t sit in it, you can still appreciate the artistry of the carvings on the bottom. Conga Chair! But no matter where you sit, it’s much more about what you sip! EatsThe “eats” here are actually nothing but beverages. And though today we’ll be focusing on the specialty drinks, you’ll always find a terrific selection of African wines and beers here, proudly featuring Tusker Lager. Menus and bottle assortment You can have any of the drinks you’re about to see served to you in a Mask Tumbler if you’re looking for a souvenir from your time at the Dawa Bar. These hit the scene around the same time the Musical Tumbler arrived at various spots around Animal Kingdom. It’ll up your beverage cost by about $6 per drink. Mask Tumblers One of the cocktails that has been a hit for a long time here is the Sugar Cane Mojito. Now, one reason I personally haven’t sampled the Sugar Cane Mojito previously is because I’m really not into mojitos in general. But this drink’s reputation precedes itself, and from the moment it was placed in front of me I started to understand why. It’s a gorgeous drink — strikingly clear. I was mesmerized by the sunlight shining through the drink. (And, no, I hadn’t started drinking, yet. ;-D) Sugar Cane Mojito Even though the general components are the same as a typical mojito (plenty of mint, and in this case the rum is African Starr mixed with Sugar Cane Syrup — complete with a stalk of sugar cane), I really did enjoy this one. As mentioned above, the Dawa Bar added Bloody Marys to the mix last fall, and the different twists are pretty unique. Bloody Mary menu My friend chose the African Bloody Mary: vodka, Loaded Bloody Mary Mix, and spicy African berbere sauce garnished with berbere-rubbed beef jerky, a celery stalk, carrot, and parsley. African Bloody Mary I stepped out of my norm with the mojito for you, but I’m just not willing to do the same with a Bloody Mary ;). I can tell you, though, that it got high marks from its consumer, with plenty of heat from the berbere spice. If anything’s going to wake you up while you’re waiting for the Animal Kingdom Starbucks to open, this oughta do it! Note that the bartenders may not have the ingredients to make the Bloody Marys after 11AM. The African Margarita deviates from a traditional margarita thanks to the addition of Van der Hum —a tangerine liqueur from South Africa. (Mine pictured below is saltless per my regular request). African Margarita That hint of tangerine citrus brightens up an already lime-heavy drink. Overall, it’s just different enough from a typical margarita to give it a try if you’ve never visited the Dawa Bar before and are looking for something familiar with just a hint of  something new. There are two rum cocktails on the menu made with the house beverage mix: Pangani Punch. You can pick up a Harambe Cooler or a Lost on Safari. Never one to resist a good name, I went with the Lost on Safari, which mixes Captain Morgan Spiced Rum and Pink Pigeon Mauritian Rum with the punch. Lost on Safari While it was fine — and I always enjoy the fruity Pangani Punch — I found it to be a bit watery. Strength isn’t something I’ve ever had reason to complain about with any Dawa drink before, so here’s hoping it was just an off-day for the mix. OverallAll in all, though, it was another great visit! I’ve long loved this gem of a bar from my very first visit years ago, and it continues to be a special place to me. Here’s hoping you have a chance to relax, drink, and sit for a spell at the Dawa Bar. And if I see you there, we’ll go heads-or-tails for the conga chair! Do you have a favorite drink at the Dawa Bar? 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: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Guest Review: Dawa Bar in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Friday Happy Hour: Animal Kingdom’s Dawa Bar Review: Animal Kingdom’s Newly Renovated Dawa Bar View the full article

Bears have been a part of the Bentley family's life for seven years, and that's long enough. View the full article

In a one-bedroom apartment near a bus stop in south Orlando, Army veteran Michael Bailey has found nirvana. Tidy but simple, his home has one overwhelmingly attractive quality. View the full article

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said Tuesday that minimum wage increases should be left to businesses and state governments, opposing a hike in the federal pay floor as an impediment to individuals trying to escape from poverty. View the full article

Revved up by the buzz he created by unveiling an all-new 19641/2 Ford Mustang, Tom Scarpello is looking for factory space in Central Florida and plans to hire workers to build more of the $119,500 cars. View the full article