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Eight cold-stressed Kemp’s ridley sea turtles were treated in recent weeks by Disney Animal Programs cast members. These were among hundreds of cold-stunned turtles that washed ashore at Cape Cod Bay, Massachusetts, following a sudden cold spell. The turtles were collected by volunteers from Massachusetts Audubon, and then taken to the New England Aquarium’s Rehabilitation Center in Quincy, Massachusetts, to be stabilized and warmed. When the turtles were ready for travel, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, with support from the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF), transported and loaded 193 critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles into a US Coast Guard plane for the trip south! Kemp’s ridleys are the rarest sea turtles in the world. The turtles being treated and warmed at Disney each weigh about five pounds and are two to three years old. This is an age at which little Kemp’s ridleys have just moved into coastal waters from the open sea. Most Kemp’s ridleys grow up in the Gulf of Mexico, but some are carried out of the Gulf and up the Atlantic coast by strong currents. These little turtles move into bays and estuaries from Massachusetts to Florida. During warmer months, there are lots of blue crabs and other crustaceans for ridleys to eat in these waters. When winter arrives, the turtles typically swim south to avoid cold water. However, if there is a sudden cold snap, the turtles can become trapped in the bays. Sea turtles enjoy warm water and have a body temperature about the same as the water that surrounds them. When the water temperature dips below 45 degrees, turtles get chilled, lose their ability to swim, and immobile turtles begin to wash ashore. Normally, ridleys and other sea turtles anticipate cold weather and move south in the fall. But the sandy spit of Cape Cod makes this seasonal migration a special challenge. The cape hooks out into the Atlantic and catches southbound turtles, which collect within Cape Cod Bay. Turtles caught in the bay can find their way back out, except when the onset of frigid weather is rapid, like it was in recent weeks. Under these conditions, turtles in the bay are literally caught out in the cold, and a sea turtle cold-stunning event occurs. Emergencies such as this cold-stunning event often require a fast response. Through the DWCF Rapid Response Fund, we are able to provide emergency support to help animals when they need it most, like we did for these young endangered turtles. The young Kemp’s ridleys taken in by Disney are now swimming in a backstage location at The Seas with Nemo & Friends to regain their strength. Plans are to release these rare turtles into warm Florida waters as soon as they are well. Here at Disney, we hope to make an impact that will ensure that future generations will continue to be inspired and delighted by sea turtles. To that end, we have worked to protect endangered sea turtles by providing grants to conservation nonprofits through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund. Disney has helped support 115 projects protecting sea turtles and their habitat, with more than $1.8 million in funds since 1998. Check out this for behind-the-scenes footage of this rescue effort! Special Edition Wildlife Friday: Cold Sea Turtles Cared for By Disney Animal Programs Cast Members by Blair Witherington: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Three weeks ago, I wrote about the latest fringe idea to hit Florida -- a proposal that would force schools to show an Obama-bashing movie to all students. Twice actually. Once in 8th-grade and again in 11th to make sure it sank in. ("Mandatory movies: Florida's newest nutty idea".) View the full article

Last month, Thomas Smith kicked off a new series on the Disney Parks Blog we’re calling “Room with A View.” It’s a fun way to take a peek inside some Disney resorts that offer amazing views of Walt Disney World Resort. Today, I want to take you into another favorite view – the savannah room on the second floor of the Jambo House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. From the savannah room, you can see African animals and tropical birds on the nearby savannah. There’s actually 30 species of African wildlife including giraffe, zebra and greater kudu that roam right before your eyes. GalleryRoom with a View: ‘Safari View’ Suite at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge view allIt’s so serene and exotic – unlike any other resort in Orlando. And the view inside this room is pretty amazing too. It feels authentic and captures the artistry of African craftsmanship with hand-carved woodwork and rich colors woven in textured fabrics. You can book this room now at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. To find prices and availability, visit our Disneyworld.com page. There are so many views to share with you so stay tuned to the next resort we showcase in our Disney Parks Blog Room with a View series. Room with a View: ‘Safari View’ Suite at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge by Michelle Baumann: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We will be featuring suites at Walt Disney World Resort that have something special in common – a spectacular view. See what makes the Jambo House at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge so magical.From:Disney ParksViews:209442ratingsTime:00:45More inTravel & Events

Orlando-based SeaWorld Entertainment Inc. has laid off 311 people throughout the company, a spokesman said Friday. View the full article

Earlier this week, the stars came out at the Walt Disney World Resort as production continued on Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration on ABC. “Good Morning America” anchor Robin Roberts was joined by Anna and Elsa while hosting from Magic Kingdom Park. Singing superstar Ariana Grande caught up with Mickey Mouse after her performance of “Last Christmas” and her newest holiday hit, “Santa Tell Me.” Singer-songwriter Prince Royce took to the stage to sing “Feliz Navidad.” ESPN and SEC Network personality Tim Tebow met up with Louis the alligator from “The Princess and the Frog” during the taping. YouTube sensation Lexi Walker delighted the audience with her performance of “Let it Go.” Don’t forget to tune in to ABC on Thursday, Dec. 25: Eastern Time Zone: 10 a.m.Central Time Zone: 9 a.m.Mountain Time Zone: 9 a.m.Pacific Time Zone: 9 a.m.You can also join the conversation by using the hashtag #DisneyParade. First Look: Robin Roberts, Ariana Grande, Tim Tebow, Lexi Walker, Prince Royce and More at the Walt Disney World Resort for Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration on ABC by George Savvas: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We have some fun new updates for you today of what’s soon to be at Walt Disney World — but they’re coming to us from Disneyland! Intrepid Dining in Disneyland columnist Heather Sievers attended the fun Mahaloween Luau event earlier this year at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar in the Disneyland Hotel. While there, she grabbed a sneak peek of what we can expect at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. We also gleaned a few more details from The Atomic Grog! Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Concept Art — Coming Soon to Walt Disney World! While details have been kept mostly under wraps since we were given our first glimpse of concept art last Spring, the presentation by Imagineers Brandon Kleyla and Kyle Barnes at the Mahaloween Luau served to add a few more pieces to the puzzle. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Although we know that Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto will be similar to the wildly popular Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar in Disneyland Hotel, we’re also starting to get an idea of how they’ll differ. And the key is right here in some of the photos we are sharing with you today. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village ResortThe most interesting thing to come out of the presentation is the subtle difference in themeing between the two different Trader Sam’s locations. While the Disneyland Trader Sam’s has a style more reflective of Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise ride — think African Queen — Imagineers have something entirely different in mind for the Grog Grotto. At the Polynesian, Trader Sam’s will celebrate more of the nautical aspect of the intrepid head salesman’s adventures. Look for the primary themeing cues to come courtesy of the celebrated Disney classic film, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. The film inspired one of the most iconic — and fondly missed — rides at Walt Disney World. So suddenly, that giant squid tentacle mounted on the wall in the first rendering above makes sense!!! As do some of the photos of merchandise we spied. Check out the t-shirt, which features said squid. Concept Art Trader Sam’s The footed mugs and tiki glasses are pretty rad, too! With each new detail that’s revealed, we’re more excited to see just how Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto will take shape! What are you looking forward to the most at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto when it debuts at the Polynesian Village Resort? Leave a comment and tell us what you’re most excited about! 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 FanRelated posts: News! Trader’s Sam’s Grog Grotto is Coming to Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort!News: Tangaroa Terrace and Trader Sam’s to Open in Disneyland HotelMust-Try Eats at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar in DisneylandView the full article

Last month, Rachel Brent gave us a sneak peek at the new, enormous gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort. Today, I’ve got photos to share with you from this 7 ½ feet-tall and 12 feet-wide wonder. GalleryGingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort view allThe house is made of more than 500 pounds of gingerbread and took a team of 25 artists, engineers and bakers to create. But it’s not just there for looks! Guests can purchase gingerbread shingles, assorted holiday cookies, holiday cookie-decorating and gingerbread house kits, and specialty hot chocolate and cider at this gingerbread house. Check it out before Holidays at the Disneyland Resort ends January 6! Gingerbread House Wows at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This past year, my fiancée has been participating in a lot of runDisney races in both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. One thing I’ve learned while cheering for her is that the right race attire can make all of the difference. Today, I’m excited to announce a new Minnie Run collection by Champion Athleticwear that is coming to the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in January 2015. Inspired by Minnie Mouse, this new collection features a new “Run Your Ears Off” tee-shirt, a seamless bra and seamless capri pants. I spoke with the Champion Athleticwear team who provide the official performance apparel for runDisney. They said they designed this new collection after extensive research and feedback from runDisney participants over the past few years. The bra and Capri are chafe resistant through innovative seamless technology, which they said is perfect for running. The new tee has Champion Vapor Technology which dries faster as you heat up (I need that kind of shirt for summers in Florida!). The Minnie Run collection will be sold at the Champion Athleticwear booth during the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo from January 7 – 10 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Stay tuned in the coming weeks as I’ll offer some additional looks at other items coming to this exciting race weekend at Walt Disney World Resort. Minnie Run Collection By Champion Athleticwear Coming to 2015 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

A crowd gathered in Washington on Saturday, with thousands expected to march through the avenues of the city to the Capitol to protest recent police encounters that claimed the lives of unarmed black men across the country. View the full article

If you’re looking for a festive signature cocktail to serve at your holiday party, our Poinse-tini is the perfect choice! Offered during our Very Merrytime Cruises, along with the Christmas Cookie cocktail I shared last week, the sweetness of this easy-to-make concoction makes it a favorite among many. Give it a taste this weekend, and let me know in the comments what you think! 2 oz gin1/2 oz Chambord1 oz fresh lemon juice1 oz cinnamon syrupBlack cherry syrupBittersSugarShake and strain gin, Chambord, fresh lemon juice and cinnamon syrup.Moisten the rim of a martini glass and dip it in sugar.Layer bottom of martini glass with black cherry syrup.Pour drink into martini glass and top with a dash of bitters.Disney Cruise Line Recipe: Poinse-tini by Salah Chetbi: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

On December 3rd, Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All Star Music Resort reopened after a four-month long refurbishment. Learn About:Intermission Food Court Disney World RestaurantsWe were excited to see the results, and — of course — excited to taste the food! We shared a photo tour of the whole space just after the food court reopened. But there was so much to see that we couldn’t fit it all in one post. So today we’re back at Intermission Food Court to explore the food options a little more in depth, from a full rundown of the menus to sampling a few of the items ourselves (as we so love to do!). Still, just as a reminder, we’ll begin by taking a quick peek at the updated design of Intermission Food Court. AtmosphereFor those familiar with the All Star Food Courts, you’ll notice the changes immediately. First off, bold primary colors have given way to earth tones. Intermission Food Court Entrance Intermission Food Court Intermission Food Court The larger-than-life murals of musicians are gone, but that doesn’t mean the nods to music have disappeared… they’re just more subtle. Some of my favorite features include the guitar fret wall, the “drum kit” over the beverage station, and the woodwind instruments surrounding the Singing Spirits Bar. Guitar wall Beverage Station Singing Spirits Bar And, of course, some Disney pals have joined in on the fun, too… Character Pane Character Panes But now it’s time to explore the food options a little more in depth, so here we go! EatsLet’s take the food court station by station… and grab a bite or two while we’re at it ;). We aimed to get a small sampling from each station — or “shop” — on our visit, but I don’t want to miss the chance to point out the Pizza and Pasta Shop, which was one station we didn’t try. Pizza and Pasta Shop menu Pizza and Pasta Shop menu So, yeah, there’s pizza here ;). Or you can grab a Hot Italian Sub. The pasta might be the more noteworthy option, though, since the Create-Your-Own Pasta trend that guests are enjoying at Landscape of Flavors and End Zone Food Court (in addition to other resort food courts) has made it’s way here. The variety of choices for your pasta, sauce, and protein can be seen in the photo below. Create Your Own Pasta options Right next door is the Grill Shop, where you’ll find basic food court favorites (burgers and hot dogs… and what’s a Disney food court without Chicken Breast Nuggets?). Create-Your-Own is the name of the game here, too, for both the burger options (angus beef, chicken, or veggie) and the hot dogs. Options for sides include fries, of course, but also cucumber salad and coleslaw. Grill Shop menu Grill Shop menu This is where we grabbed a Create-Your-Hot Dog. No matter what you’re topping at this station, choices remain the same, as listed on the photo below. Create Your Own topping options By the way, if you’re thinking, “Okay, great, but can’t a guy or gal just top their burger with ketchup, lettuce, and onion, like in the good ol’ days?” Yes, you can . You’ll find more traditional condiments and toppings outside the ordering area as part of the beverage station, where you can help yourself. Additional toppings at beverage station Condiments at beverage station We went with chili sauce, plastic cheese (okay, fine — it’s just called “Cheese Sauce,” but we prefer the DFB term of endearment ), and fried, breaded Onion Petals. Create-Your-Own Hot Dog Before you get your create-your-own-what-have-you, something to know is that every item is made to order, just like at End Zone Food Court at All Star Sports. While that’s great from a taste perspective, it’s not so great from a wait perspective. We all know resort food courts can get awfully busy. I wasn’t even there at high lunch time — my visit was somewhere around 3 pm, and there was still a fair wait. Just an FYI. But at last, we had our dog, and the end result was pretty good. There is nothing especially noteworthy about the dog itself — just your regular, tasty hot dog. But the chili sauce packed a decent amount of flavor (a little less dense than a regular chili for easier spreading), and the choice of plastic cheese was inspired, if I do say so myself ;). But it was the onion petals that really made the difference. Hopefully you can see in the photo how nicely browned and seasoned they are, and super crisp to add texture variety. I honestly could have made an entire side of those alone. Closeup on toppings Oh, and the fries? Create-Your-Own Hot Dog and fries on the side These are the shoestring cut that have made their way all across Disney World counter service restaurants in recent weeks. Same flavor as the standard Disney fries, with a hint of potato skin on them from the natural cut, but thin. For some reason, this bums me out a bit. But moving on… The Grill Shop’s next door neighbor is the Specialty Shop. This is the station where you’ll encounter the most changes at lunch versus dinner. For lunch, options included Create-Your-Own Salad, Turkey and Muenster Focaccia, Beef and Blue Focaccia, Chicken Quesadilla, Taco Salad, and Nachos Supreme. Specialty Shop Lunch Menu Specialty Shop Lunch Menu Dinner options include Shrimp Creole, Carved London Broil, Baked Chicken, Carved Roast Turkey, and Salmon. The Create-Your-Own Salad remains on the menu for dinner as well. Specialty Shop Dinner Menu Specialty Shop Dinner Menu Our visit was during lunch, so we chose the Taco Salad. Mainly because those gigantic fried tortilla shells looked pretty irresistible. Crispy, light, and bubbly — perfecto! Taco Salad shells Even though it doesn’t say “Create-Your-Own,” the taco salad kind of is, since the Cast Member will take your requests for toppings after filling your shell with lettuce on the bottom, and then a helping of seasoned, very finely minced ground beef. I opted for salsa, shredded cheese (the plastic cheese here is reserved for the Nachos), jalapeños, onions, and sour cream (on the side per request). Other toppings are guacamole, cilantro, diced tomatoes, and mushrooms. Taco Salad toppings Taco Salad If you’ve had taco salad at Pecos Bill’s or Tortuga Tavern, this is pretty much the same thing except you don’t top it yourself. And I don’t know if my eyes deceived me, but the shells here seemed absolutely huge. Huge shell I love me a Disney taco salad. I like that they’re so customizable everywhere they’re offered, but it also has something to do with the fact that it is really two meals in one, since your shells converts into chips as you finish off the bowl . Taco shell DIY nacho Next to the Specialty Shop is the Bakery, featuring breakfast items such as muffins and bagels, and desserts like cookies and brownies. Several items aren’t listed on the menu, such as croissants and cinnamon rolls. Bakery menu Bakery menu Bakery case Our final station is the Gelato Shop, which also features a selection of smoothies and iced coffee throughout the day. Gelato Shop menu Gelato Shop menu But we were after one thing, and one thing only: the Mickey Gelato Sundae. You start with your choice of gelato. While options will change frequently, on our visit flavors choices were vanilla, chocolate, raspberry, and mango, while seasonal options were pumpkin spice and peppermint. Gelato Next up? A generous pile of whipped cream and caramel sauce (the caramel sauce is a given, but the Cast Member kindly confirmed that we wanted it before pouring it on). Then you get to choose your garnish: currently these include some festive holiday sprinkles (a must!), red hots, chocolate chips, and — my favorite — toasted coconut. Gelato toppings So where’s Mickey in all this? Mickey Gelato Sundae He’s underneath, in waffle form! Mickey waffle Even better, he’s sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, so it’s churro-meets-Mickey-waffle for what comes together in the sundae as a fun mix of cold and warm, fun and decadent. Highly recommended! OverallI believe guests at All Star Music have a lot to look forward at Intermission Food Court both from an atmosphere and a food perspective, thanks to this refurbishment. True, fare is pretty much standard for a resort food court, as expected. But I do think they’ve managed to sneak in a few surprises, and I’m happy to say that everything I tried was tasty, and certainly does the trick. I think it was a job well done. For those keeping score, that’s two All Star Food Court refurbishments out of three. Will All Star Movies undergo a refurbishment of its own next year? We’ll be excited to see what the new year brings, to the All Stars and the rest of Disney World. From the potential for new eateries at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to Trader Sam’s making it’s way to the Polynesian Village Resort, and — yep — another Starbucks , and so much more, there’s plenty to look forward to for all of us Disney food fans everywhere, and we can’t wait to keep you posted! What would you like to try at Intermission Food Court? 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 FanRelated posts: Guest Review: Intermission Food Court Lunch/Dinner at Disney’s All Star Music ResortPhoto Tour: All Star Music’s Intermission Food Court in Walt Disney World Reopens After RefurbishmentGuest Review: Intermission Food Court Breakfast at All Star Music ResortView the full article

Go behind the scenes with Lee Corso and see the magic behind the commercial he starred in taped at the Magic Kingdom Park. Visit http://di.sn/swP to see the Four Finalists in ESPN's Cheer...From:Disney ParksViews:124352ratingsTime:02:58More inTravel & Events

Tonight’s “After Dark” image clearly shows that the holiday season is shining bright at Magic Kingdom Park. This depicts “Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the special fireworks show you can only see during a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allDuring this show, the castle is covered with snowflakes, wrapped like a present – and even Santa makes a special appearance. What’s your favorite part? Tell us in the “Comments” section below. Thanks to photographer Tom Bricker for the terrific image. Disney Parks After Dark: ‘Holiday Wishes’ at Magic Kingdom Park by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

In the video I shared this week, you got a first look at our brand-new Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball. Today, I want to share even more details about this spectacular event during our Very Merrytime Cruises. Created especially for the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus to the ship, Disney cruisers are invited for a celebration in the atrium lobby hosted by the Cruise Director. From time-to-time, special guests like the captain of the ship, or two royal sisters from a far away frozen land, join the winter wonderland fun! The festivities begin with a performance by our holiday dancers, the Snowbelles, dressed in their holiday finest and kicking up their heels to your favorite holiday tunes. Next to show up to the party are Mickey and the gang, who raise the energy in the room even more, just in time for the guests of honor to magically appear. As you can imagine, once jolly old Saint Nick and Mrs. Claus are in the room, our littlest cruisers can hardly contain their excitement! And right when you think the celebration can’t get any better, a magical snowfall overtakes the atrium. That’s right, a flurry of frozen fractals will make you feel like you’ve been transported from the Caribbean right to Arendelle! If you’ve been on one of our Very Merrytime Cruises this year, tell us, what was your favorite part of the celebration? Disney Cruisers Celebrate Santa’s Arrival with Frozen Flurries by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

AAAAAH!! I am so excited to share this DFB exclusive! We may have closed the books on the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, but we’re still reliving the memories of one of the best Festivals we remember from recent years! And, NO JOKE, I get emails, tweets, facebook messages, what-have-you EVERY SINGLE DAY from readers asking me for the recipe for the Sweet Corn Cheesecake, the dessert item featured at this year’s Mexico Marketplace Booth. Sweet Corn Cheesecake The sweet, rich, creamy dessert was the perfect marriage of the familiar and the unexpected for our readers, and everyone’s all about figuring out how to make it at home. Sweet Corn Cheesecake — Cross Section Well, the wait is over! Thanks to the super generous and ever accommodating Chef Gerardo Gonzalez (a.k.a. Chef Jerry), who oversees all of the restaurants in the Mexico Pavilion (and who I may have bugged a little incessantly about giving me this recipe…and the one for the amazing Crema de Elote at La Hacienda de San Angel…still waiting on that one, Chef Jerry…), for sharing it with us and allowing us to print it for you lot! Sweet Corn Cheesecake2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, Mexico Marketplace Booth Serves 8-12 Ingredients: For the Crust: 1 pound crushed graham crackers (2 cups worked for us when we tried the recipe) 1 stick (4 oz) unsalted butter For the Cheesecake Filling: 1 8 oz package of cream cheese, at room temperature 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk 1 can (12oz) evaporated milk 2 cans (12 oz each) sweet corn, drained of excess liquid 6 tablespoons (3 oz) unsalted butter, at room temperature 3 eggs Instructions:Preheat oven to 335° F. To Make the Crust: 1. Spray an 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray. 2. Melt butter. Mix with the graham crackers and press into the bottom of the pan, covering the bottom and sides. Set aside. To Make the Cheesecake Filling: 1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat cream cheese and butter until fully combined and soft. 2. Add sweetened condensed milk, scraping down sides to make sure the mixture is fully blended. 3. Add eggs, one at a time, scraping down sides after each addition to make sure the mixture is fully blended. 4. Add in evaporated milk a little at a time, scraping the bowl down often. 5. Add corn to the mixture. Blend all ingredients and pour into the springform pan. 6. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until just set. 7. Cool cheesecake until it reaches room temperature. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Woo-hoo! You’re welcome! Will you be making this delicious Sweet Corn Cheesecake this holiday season or just because it’s Tuesday? Leave us a comment and tell us 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 FanRelated posts: Epcot Food and Wine Festival Pictures and Review: France and Mexico Marketplace Booths2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Vegetarian Moussaka at the Greece Marketplace Booth2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Kielbasa and Potato Pierogies at the Poland Marketplace BoothView the full article

Generally speaking, Floridians are pretty stressed out, as I've told you before. View the full article

Our How to Draw animation series from Disney's Animation Studios in Walt Disney World continues with a lesson on how to draw another one of the stars from Disney's “Big Hero 6.” http://di.s...From:Disney ParksViews:183156ratingsTime:23:27More inTravel & Events

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights during Holidays at Walt Disney World will thrill you with dazzling displays, delightful music and sheer magical magnitude! http://di.sn/g02F ...From:Disney ParksViews:919290ratingsTime:03:09More inTravel & Events

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from Disney World!! The season is rolling right along with festive treats and special events. And, as always, there’s plenty of other food news to go around: menu changes, new eats (did somebody say “Barbecued Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese?!”), completed refurbishments, ongoing Downtown Disney construction, and more. So join us on another trip around the World to see What’s New… EPCOTHolidays Around the World is in full swing at Epcot! This annual festival shares holiday traditions from around the globe through story, music, and — our favorite! — FOOD! Happy Holidays from EPCOT! Epcot Christmas tree ornaments Holiday Storyteller in Japan France decoration Remember, this is the only time of year to grab such treats as Happy Face Fried Cakes at the Joy of Tea in China, Gingerbread Ice Cream at L’artisan des Glaces in France, and Panettone sweet bread at Italy’s Gelato Stand. Happy Face Fried Cakes Gingerbread Ice Cream Panettone Sweet Bread display But there’s plenty of non-holiday food news as well… Starting in Morocco, Spice Road Table has not only started taking Advance Dining Reservations — they’re also now accepting the Disney Dining Plan. To offer guests the ability to maximize their one Table Service plan credit, this tapas-based restaurant is now also serving full-sized entrees, including Coriander Crusted Rack of Lamb, Roasted Chicken, and a Mediterranean Vegetable Platter, among others. Spice Road Table Spice Road Table menu Staying in Morocco, Tangierine Cafe debuted new entrees as well: a Meatball Platter and Saffron Rotisserie Chicken. Tangierine Cafe menu Tangierine Cafe entree display At the United Kingdom’s Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room, the corned beef dinner dish has had a makeover: it’s now Strongbow Cider-braised Corned Beef, served with English Baked Beans (which is also a new side item on the menu) and Root Vegetable Slaw. Rose and Crown Pub and Dining Room Rose and Crown menu For lunch, the English Breakfast Burger has been replaced with a Welsh Pub Burger (Angus Beef Patty with Bass Beer, Irish Cheddar Gratin, Bacon, and Battered Leeks). Ciao from Italy! Tutto Italia has a few menu changes: a new appetizer is Fior di Latte Calda (mozzarella, pomodorini, foccacia, and olive oil). Recent entree additions or makeovers include Lasagna al Forno (previously Bolognese), and Risotto Gamberi e Aragosta (previously featuring shrimp, this dish now includes both shrimp and lobster). Tutto Italia The Norway Beer Stand is now serving Einstok White Ale. Norway Beer Stand Norway Beer Cart menu Among a few seasonal offerings, the Refreshment Cool Post has added a Frozen Elephant to their beverage options: Frozen Coke and Amarula Cream Liqeuer. Refreshment Cool Post Refreshment Cool Post menu It appears to be similar to the (non-frozen) Brown Elephant that we enjoyed at the Cool Post during the 2013 International Food and Wine Festival, so it’s fun to see this on the menu! Sundaes here have been updated, too, featuring Dutch Chocolate and Dulce de leche frozen yogurt and a choice of white chocolate pearls or pretzels for garnish. White Cosmopolitans are now available at the Refreshment Port. Epcot Refreshment Port And we’re thinking there’s just a bit of time left to try the current seasonal offerings at Joffrey’s Coffee Carts around the World, like this one between the UK and Canada Pavilions. Espresso and Pastries stand between the United Kingdom and Canada Pavilions in Epcot Seasonal specialty selections include a Gingerbread White Mocha Latte, Peppermint Mocha Latte, and an Eggnog Latte with Bailey’s. HOLLYWOOD STUDIOSMin & Bill’s Dockside Diner has added a couple of artisan Macaroni and Cheese dishes to their menu: Buffalo Chicken and Barbecued Pulled Pork (Hello!). Min and Bill’s featured items Barbecued Pulled Pork Macaroni & Cheese and Buffalo Chicken Macaroni & Cheese Be sure to check out our full review of each of these new items! At 50s Prime Time Cafe, Dad’s Stuffed Pork Chop (with Gouda cheese, cranberry, apples, and herbs) is now on the menu. And Cousin Brandon’s Grilled Salmon (with maple bourbon butter sauce, broccolini, and sweet potato-bacon hash) replaces Cousin Barry’s Poached Salmon. 50s Prime Time Cafe menu Sorry, Barry… we hope you’ll still visit the family. If you’re watching the Osborne Lights dance on the Streets of America, you can stop by Herbie’s Drive-In for the new S’mores (they look like little “hot pockets” for easier carrying). Herbie’s Drive-in Herbie’s Drive-in menu S’mores on the menu And you can now add a shot of Bacardi Superior Rum, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, or Three Olives Cherry Vodka to your Coke or Lemonade Frozen Cooler. DOWNTOWN DISNEYExposition Park in Downtown Disney’s West Side is now open! This is the new location for the four Disney Food Trucks (though they’re still apt to roam, as trucks will!). Entrance to Food Truck Park Food Truck Park Take a photo tour of the park here (and check out our review of Superstar Catering’s Slow-cooked Pot Roast Sandwich)! Of course, even as projects are realized, work continues all over Downtown Disney as it transitions to Disney Springs. Here are a few recent shots of what will be The Hangar and The Boathouse restaurants. The Boathouse construction Amphicar sign for The Boathouse Hangar construction And the Springs Bottling Co. sign now rises above what will be Morimoto Asia, anticipated to open summer of 2015. Springs Bottling Co. sign Springs Bottling Co. sign What’s better than hanging out with friends, enjoying a pint (or two!), and listening to live music at Raglan Road? Raglan Road Be sure to check out Raglan’s newest band, Reel Ó Gránde. Showtimes for all the excellent music and dancing at Raglan Road can be found at the Raglan Road website. © Raglan Road And a big CONGRATULATIONS to Raglan Road’s Chef Kevin Dundon for winning a Taste TV Award for his PBS television series, “Modern Irish Food”! Master Chef Kevin Dundon RESORTSAll Star Music ResortIntermission Food Court is open again after a four-month long refurbishment. Intermission Food Court Entrance Beverage Station Intermission Food Court See the results here! Grand FloridianA Holiday Turkey Sandwich featuring Roasted Turkey, Stuffing, Gravy, and Cranberry Sauce can currently be enjoyed at the Grand Floridian’s Gasparilla Island Grill. Gasparilla Island Grill entrance Is this a temporary addition, or will it find a home on the regular menu like the Holiday Sandwich at Downtown Disney’s Earl of Sandwich? Time will tell! Thanks so much for joining us on another trip around the World! 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 FanRelated posts: What’s New Around Walt Disney World: May 6, 2014What’s New Around Walt Disney World: June 4, 2014Top 5 Must-Try NEW Restaurants in Walt Disney World for 2014View the full article

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