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One of the most fun things to do with little ones at Walt Disney World Resort is take them to meet the characters that they enjoy from beloved stories and films. It is one of those magical moments that you never forget as a parent, and it creates a memory that kids can relive at home by looking at photos and autograph books from your trip. From Disney Junior characters and Pixar friends, to fairytale princesses and the Fab 5, there is no shortage of opportunities for kids to interact with their favorites. Parent tips: Utilize FastPass+ to bypass lines at select locations, and have Disney Photo Pass photographers capture shots of the entire family that can be added to you’re My Disney Experience account via your MagicBand. Here’s a roundup of some of our guests’ top meet and greet locations in all four theme parks. Magic Kingdom Park For Disney’s Hollywood Studios, click here. For Epcot, click here. For Disney’s Animal Kingdom, click here. #DisneyKids: Meeting Characters at Disney Parks by Jamie Langdon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With just one week left in the legislative session, these bills appear to be dead: Guns in schools and on college campuses, allowing adoption agencies the right to turn away gay couples, limiting which bathrooms transgenders can use. View the full article

Daredevil/high-wire artist Nik Wallenda is nervous. He’s entering unfamiliar territory: A walk atop the new Orlando Eye. View the full article

Take in the sights along the Danube River on a family bike ride in Austria on our all new Adventures by Disney river cruise! Now, experiencing four European countries with your family couldn't...From:Disney ParksViews:474ratingsTime:00:47More inTravel & Events

" 'Grey's Anatomy' is dead to me," a friend wrote Friday. "Without McDreamy I can't go on. Sad. Meredith is annoying." View the full article

A University of Florida fraternity expelled three of its members Friday after allegations that they spat at a group of disabled military veterans at a Panama City resort. View the full article

UPDATE: Please note the second “World of Color” showing is scheduled for 10:15 p.m., not 11:15 p.m. as previously listed. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the all-new “World of Color – Celebrate!” during the 24-Hour Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration kickoff event, May 22-23! Additional “World of Color” dining packages have been added for the event at select restaurants at Disney California Adventure park. Ariel’s Grotto and Wine Country Trattoria will feature special 2-course, prix fixe breakfast menus from 12 a.m. to 1:45 a.m. on May 23, with reserved viewing for a special 3 a.m. showing of “World of Color.” “World of Color” lunch and dinner packages with reserved viewing for the 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. 10:15 p.m. shows on May 22 are available at Carthay Circle Restaurant and Golden Vine Winery and will feature regular menu items. For reservations, visit Disneyland.com/dine or call 714-781-DINE. Learn more about the all-new “World of Color – Celebrate!” coming for the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, featuring hosts Neil Patrick Harris and Mickey Mouse, in this article by my fellow author, Shawn Slater. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog – soon I will be sharing a full listing of specialty food and beverage items for the 24-Hour Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration kickoff event! ‘World of Color’ Dining Packages Available for Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration 24-Hour Kickoff Event by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

YouTuber, Mike, from Drinks Made Easy, explores Walt Disney World in search of his Top 5 favorite drinks! What do you think of his list? http://di.sn/6005fURh SUBSCRIBE: http://di.sn/q7h ...From:Disney ParksViews:16827ratingsTime:02:52More inTravel & Events

Leslie Grubl loves formal dinners with her husband, Gary, giving her a chance to put on a cocktail dress, high heels and jewelry. View the full article

In what could signal a shift in emphasis from marine animals, SeaWorld revealed Friday it will open a 200-foot-tall roller coaster next year at its Orlando park. View the full article

Looking for a new activity to do on your next Disney cruise with your love? Our decadent Chocolate and Liquor Tasting is a popular choice for couples and a fun way to indulge together. First, our sommelier will introduce you to the history of chocolate and its production method. Next, you’ll dive into pairing premium chocolate with alcoholic beverages. The sommelier will explain the way to taste white and dark chocolate, including melted chocolate, with wine, Champagne and scotch, explaining the reaction of sweet or bitter chocolate on the palate. Up next, I’ll give you taste of our Tequila and Margarita seminar, another great date option for couples and a fun activity for friends. For more about the beverage tasting experiences on a Disney cruise, visit the posts below: From Stem to Stern Wine Tasting on a Disney CruiseMartini and Champagne Tastings on a Disney CruiseWhiskey and Cognac Tastings on a Disney CruiseChocolate and Liquor Tasting on a Disney Cruise by Salah Chetbi: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Here at DFB, we talk a little about sweet snacks. You know, now and then. Ok. We talk about them a LOT. And when we aren’t talking about them, it’s probably because we’re eating them. So we can talk about them some more. But that shouldn’t lead you to believe that we love savory snacks any less. I’ve talked about many of my favorite sweets, and even a few sweet and salty options. But today, I’m giving the post over completely to the non-sweet team. These guys can double as a meal if you’d like them to. Or they can just give you that little boost between breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Let’s take a closer look at some of my favorites. Flavored Popcorn at Cozy Cone MotelRecently, I discovered a stand in Epcot that’s offering one of the best things ever — Flavored Popcorn! While we’ve seen the reports of such delights from Tokyo Disneyland, it’s the first time something besides Caramel Corn has made much of a splash at Walt Disney World. But that isn’t the case at Disneyland, where Flavored Popcorn has been a mainstay of at the Cozy Cone Motel since it opened! Popcone at Cozy Cone Motel And inside that Popcone, there are some yummy Flavored Popcorn options. They change up every once in a while, so you’ll never know what you might get! Flavors of the Day Personally, I’d be pretty happy with either Dill Pickle OR Nacho Cheese! Dill Pickle Popcorn! Which one would you choose? Skewers and Tiger Tails at Bengal BarbecueBengal Barbecue is one of my favorite stops for a quick bite in all of Disneyland. In fact, it made my Top 10 List of Favorite Disneyland Fast Food Joints. Don’t Look for Much in the Way of Seating at Bengal Barbecue The spot is little more than a stand with a grill. Don’t look for scads of seating; there’s not much. But what they do have plenty of are delicious savory bites that can serve as either a snack or a meal. And the name of the game here is Meat on Skewers. (Okay…there are a few veggies, too.) I have a hard time choosing a favorite at Bengal, so I’ll show you a bunch! I like to get a few of the different options and share. (Or not.) I recommend starting with the Chieftain Chicken Skewer. Chunks of Chicken Meat are grilled and then smothered in a sweet, slightly spicy Chili Sauce. Chieftain Skewer But then, ya gotta try the Banyan Beef Skewer too. The rich, spicy sauce on this one is killer! Banyan Beef Skewer Sample the Safari Skewer if you want a side of Veggies. So what if the asparagus comes wrapped in bacon?  And don’t forget an order or two of Tiger Tails! Tiger Tails The grilled Bread Knots are perfect for catching all of that leftover sauce from the skewers. Cheddar Cheese StickMuch has been made of the legendary Disneyland Corn Dogs. And with good reason. If you’ve never tried one, you need to fix that right away. But we can’t forget its equally delicious cousin, the Cheddar Cheese Stick. Oh no, it’s not that kind of cheese stick — the kind your mom put in your lunch. It’s more like this: Disneyland Cheese Stick! Yep, that, my friend, is a stick of Cheddar Cheese dipped in Sweet Cornbread Batter and fried to a beea-utiful golden brown. Never did a vegetarian treat taste so very decadent. Find them — along with Corn Dogs and the equally beloved Hot-Link Corn Dog — at Disney California Adventure’s Corn Dog Castle. ChimichangasThere are certain snacks that you must indulge in — just so you can say you’ve properly visited Disneyland. Chimichangas are just such a snack. Corn on the Cob and Chimichangas in Disneyland For the uninitiated, you should know that Chimichangas are nearly as popular at Disneyland as Turkey Legs. In fact, you normally see them sold together. The deep friend burritos are filled with a smooth mixture of Meat and Beans, and pack a protein wallop. Whole Chimichanga They’re great for fueling up for not a lot of cash. And the filling is just right — not too spicy. In fact, you can grab some sauce to punch up the heat if you’d like. Chimichanga Split it to make a snack, or eat it on your own for a quick meal. It will keep you going for hours. Corn on the CobWhether you consider Corn on the Cob a grain or a veggie, I think we can all agree on one thing — it’s yummo. And at Disneyland, you’ll find it at carts, available as a snack. I’ve spied plain Buttered Corn, but my favorite is the Chili Lime variety. The slightly sour flavor of the lime is fantastic with the mild heat from the chili. Chili Lime Corn on the Cob It’s a nice alternative to other more traditional salty snacks, like popcorn or pretzels. Mickey Shaped PretzelsBut…speaking of pretzels… There was a time in the past when you could only get Mickey Shaped Pretzels in Disneyland. Part of me is happy that I can enjoy this iconic snack on both coasts these days, but I never see one without thinking of the original that I enjoyed in Disneyland first. Mickey Pretzel with Plastic Cheese And there’s no better way to enjoy these big boys than with a side of plastic cheese! Wetzel’s Pretzels at Downtown DisneyOk…so it’s not strictly Disney. But it’s so delicious that it’s mention-worthy. I’m talking about the savory options you can enjoy at Wetzel’s Pretzels in Downtown Disney. Check out their interesting takes on Flavored Pretzels. I rate the Pepperoni Twist as one of my favorites! Pepperoni Twist And it’s even better with a dipping sauce! Bread ConesFinally, let’s head back over the Disney California Adventure to round out this collection of savory snacks. Because there’s something here ya just gotta try. Besides, we started at the Cozy Cony Motel — so we might as well wrap up our journey here too! But this time, we’re checking at Chili Cone Queso. Cone Queso at the Cozy Cone Motel Because this is our headquarters for amazing “sandwiches” of sorts — Chili creations that come in Bread Cones. My pick is the Chili Cone Queso, which is Beef Chili and Corn Chips, topped with Shredded Cheddar Cheese. Chili Cone Queso at Cozy Cone There’s also a Chicken Verde version that’s topped with Queso Fresco! So there you have it! The equally crave-able, no less important line up of savory snacks in Disneyland! I’m already planning my next savory snack crawl. How about you? What are your favorite Disneyland savory snacks? Leave a comment and tell us what you can’t pass up! 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 Are Your Favorite Disneyland Snacks? Chili “Cone” Queso Now Available in Walt Disney World Best Unique Disneyland Snacks View the full article

Tonight’s “After Dark” image was shot at Hong Kong Disneyland of the park’s nighttime fireworks spectacular, “Disney In The Stars.” The show is an illuminating celebration that combines music with fireworks that brighten the sky above the park’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Favorite Disney character images and lighting effects are also projected across the castle’s walls and turrets during the show. GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allHave you seen “Disney In The Stars”? Tell us what you liked about it in the comments section below! Disney Parks After Dark: Fireworks Brighten Hong Kong Disneyland by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Last week, we shared that Dockside Margaritas would be opening soon at Downtown Disney. Today is opening day, and we’re sharing the first photos of the cool, laid-back new location. Sit back and enjoy the relaxing things in life — Florida style — while you take a look through the gallery below. GalleryDockside Margaritas Opens Today at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort view allPHOTOS: Dockside Margaritas Opens Today at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Broadway's own Mary Poppins, Ashley Brown, took a minute out of her family's visit while at Magic Kingdom to answer your questions about Walt Disney World. Check out the video below to...From:Disney ParksViews:208477ratingsTime:02:20More inTravel & Events

A federal lawsuit against Walt Disney Co. claims its attendance tracking and MagicBands illegally use technology developed by a California company called InCom Corp.. View the full article

In today's Friday Files, we're talking soccer, snakes, political gifts and more. View the full article

A Daytona Beach woman was found dead in the back yard of an abandoned house Wednesday evening, police said. View the full article

CBS' "48 Hours" this weekend will explore the saga of an Oviedo woman given a 40-year sentence in the second-degree murder of her estranged husband. View the full article

Former CIA Director David Petraeus, whose career was destroyed by an extramarital affair with his biographer, was sentenced Thursday to two years' probation and fined $100,000 for giving her classified material while she was working on the book. View the full article

An Orlando judge has refused to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority against Uber, the ride-sharing company. View the full article

Darden Restaurants is continuing to battle the EEOC in a federal lawsuit filed in February where the government alleges age discrimination in hiring at Seasons 52 restaurants. View the full article

Looking to treat Mom to an extra special meal this Mother’s Day? We have a few great options for you at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Restaurants! Garden Grove CafeYou’ll feel like you’re in a garden, with all the comforts of being in the a/c! Garden Grove Cafe at the Walt Disney World Swan Resort is the perfect spot to spoil Mom this Mother’s Day. Feel Like You’re Outdoors with the Comfort of Indoors! And with two different options, there’s something for early risers as well as those who plan to let her sleep in a little. If it’s breakfast you’re after, enjoy Garden Grove’s special Mother’s Day Breakfast Menu. When: Sunday, May 10, 7:00 — 10:00AM Where: Garden Grove Cafe, Walt Disney World Swan Resort Cost: $35.99 for Adults, $19.99 for children ages 3-9, children under three eat for free Garden Grove Mothers Day Breakfast Menu Garden Grove Mothers Day Breakfast Menu Menu highlights include Open-Faced Crab Sandwiches, Hand-Crafted Bacon with Accompaniments, and Potato Gratin Dauphinoise. Enjoy many of these items and more on the special Mother’s Day Brunch Menu. When: Sunday, May 10, 10:00AM — 6:00PM Where: Garden Grove Cafe, Walt Disney World Swan Resort Cost: $35.99 for Adults, $19.99 for children ages 3-9, children under three eat for free Garden Grove Mothers Day Brunch Menu Garden Grove Mothers Day Brunch Menu Hot Items and Children’s Menu Brunch is heartier, with Herb-Crusted Prime Rib, Quiche Lorraine, and Green Bean Almandine joining the line up. And don’t forget — the whole family will also enjoy interaction with Disney Characters as they dine! Celebrate Mom with Your Disney Friends at the Garden Grove! Reservations are strongly recommended for this buffet-style dining experience. Call 407-934-1618 for more information. Todd English’s bluezooBut if you’re looking for a dinner option, consider sophisticated Todd English’s bluezoo. Seating at Todd English’s bluezoo The sleek restaurant is tops for handcrafted beverages and fresh takes on regional seafood dishes. Be sure to try the Low Country Shrimp and Grits — they’re outta this world! Low Country Jumbo Shrimp and Grits at bluezoo–YUM! And when you order two adult entrees, you’ll receive a $25 gift card and a rose for Mom! To book your table, call 407-934-1111. Will you be enjoying a special meal at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin this Mother’s Day? Leave a comment below and tell us which option sounds best for your family! 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! Disney World Swan and Dolphin to Host a Mother’s Day Brunch Fourth of July News! Regional Craft Beers This Week at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel WDW Swan & Dolphin Offer Pre-Race Menus During Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend View the full article

Polk County deputies are searching for a father and his 8-year-old son after the two were seen fleeing the scene of a crash on Interstate 4 at Mile Marker 51, Thursday morning. View the full article

Broadway’s own Mary Poppins, Ashley Brown, took a minute out of her family’s visit while at Magic Kingdom Park to answer your questions about Walt Disney World Resort. Check out the video below to see if she responded to you! VIDEO: Disney Actress Ashley Brown Answers Reader Questions by Anne Macklin: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article