Disney4me

In her native Indiana, Madison Cunningham failed to graduate from two high schools. When she later failed the General Educational Development test, she thought it might be her third strike. View the full article

Do you know why rhinos roll around in the mud or what elephants can do to lower their body temperature? Did you know that one shark can have as many as 30,000 teeth during its lifetime? There’s a fun new way to find these answers and learn a lot more about some of the animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Epcot and what we are doing to protect them in the wild! The Walt Disney World Resort website has introduced a new Disney Animals section that provides a wealth of information about 10 species that are a very special focus for us. You can go to DisneyAnimals.com to read about African lions, Asian tigers, rhinos, African elephants, Western lowland gorillas, sharks, cotton-top tamarins, sea turtles, coral reef and migratory birds. While it’s not a complete list of all the animals you can see at Disney’s Animal Kingdom or at The Seas with Nemo at Epcot, it represents 10 conservation species Disney is working to protect and provides a valuable connection to nature. We hope this fun animal information inspires you to action! All of the species you read about are endangered, which makes it even more important for us to understand them and to learn more about what we can do to help save the species. You also can read a bit of behind-the-scenes information about how we care for these animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Epcot, as well as some fun facts like the ones that appear at the beginning of this story. Speaking of those, do you know the answers? Rhinos roll in the mud to keep themselves cool, get rid of parasites and prevent sunburns.Elephants can flap their ears to lower their body temperature.Sharks can have as many as 30,000 teeth over their lifetime because their teeth are not rooted in their jaws or gum lines. They can lose teeth when they take a powerful bite out of their prey. But don’t worry! New teeth can grow in just two to eight days.Now it’s your turn. Pop quiz! Here are a few questions, and the answers can be found by reading our new Disney Animals pages. When you’re finished, you can check your answers here. How many lions typically make up a family group, or pride? Guests can see a critically endangered Sumatran tiger on the Maharajah Jungle Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. How many of these tigers exist in the wild?How can you tell the difference between a black rhino and a white rhino? (HINT: It’s not the color of their skin; both are gray.) Other than humans, elephants do something that few other animals are known to do. What is it?Gorillas share 98.3 percent of humans’ DNA. However, gorillas have two things humans do not. What are they? How many species of sharks are there in the world? Where do cotton-top tamarins live in the wild? How do female sea turtles choose where to lay their eggs? Corals provide a home for what percentage of the oceans’ fish? Name a significant threat to migratory birds. How many birds are killed each year because of this threat? Wildlife Wednesday: New Disney Animals Fact-Filled Pages Debut Online by Dr. Jill Mellen: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Thanksgiving has passed, which means the countdown to Christmas has officially begun! Here’s the first gift we have to offer our readers – a brand-new Disney Parks Blog wallpaper. I have to say that I adore this design, which was pulled together by Disney Artist Mike Britton. Click here to find the perfect size for your desktop or mobile device. Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. And check out our complete gallery of wallpapers on our special page. Celebrate the Season With This Holiday Desktop/Mobile Wallpaper by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As you all know, I’m an avid fan of ALEX AND ANI! So, when I see new bangles on the horizon that are what I consider ‘must-haves’ for the holidays, I want to share them with all of you. Here’s your first look at some of the new styles headed to Disney Parks. Your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you! It All Started With A Mouse and Hakuna Matata are the first pieces in a new collection, Words Are Powerful, inspired by Disney sayings. These bangles will be available in Shiny Silver and Yellow Gold finishes beginning December 15. Also debuting is the 2015 Dated bangle featuring Mickey Mouse, a perfect way to commemorate your visit to the parks next year! This bangle will be available beginning December 15 in Rafaelian Gold and Rafaelian Silver finishes. Look for these new bangles at locations throughout the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. Disneyland Resort Disney California Adventure park – Elias & Co.Disneyland park – New Century JewelryDowntown Disney District – Disney Vault 28 and World of Disney StoreWalt Disney World Resort Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Disney OutfittersDisney’s Contemporary Resort – Bayview GiftsDisney’s Hollywood Studios – KeystoneDowntown Disney Marketplace – Tren-D and World of Disney StoreEpcot – Mouse GearMagic Kingdom Park – EmporiumCharmed? I know I am! Which bangle will you add to your collection this holiday season? New ALEX AND ANI Bangles Debut in Time for the Holidays at Disney Parks by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Do you want to build a snowman … gingerbread display? Chef Jeff Barnes and his pastry team at Disney’s Contemporary Resort have done just that. This year’s spectacular display combines two beloved Disney stories — “Frozen” and “it’s a small world.” Want a behind-the-scenes look at how the “cool” gingerbread display was created? Check out the video below! While you’re taking in the majesty of this whimsical confectionary creation, take home a “taste” of the magic with specialty cookies, blue raspberry-cake gelato, ornaments and “Frozen” merchandise. Some cookies are worth melting for! For more about the ‘Frozen’ Gingerbread Display at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, visit the posts below: Disney Magic Creates Spectacular ‘Frozen’ Gingerbread Castle at Walt Disney World ResortOver-the-Top Gingerbread Creations Wow Walt Disney World Resort GuestsWhat’s That Amazing Smell? Chocolate! It’s Gingerbread Display Time at Walt Disney World ResortVIDEO: The Magic Behind the ‘Frozen’ Gingerbread Display at Disney’s Contemporary Resort by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how the “cool” Frozen gingerbread display was created at Disney's Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort! http://di.sn/g01Y To read more, visit...From:Disney ParksViews:52852ratingsTime:01:32More inTravel & Events

The annual Holidays Around the World returns to Epcot from November 28 to December 30, 2014. This is one of my favorite holiday events at Walt Disney World Resort. Between the amazing Candlelight Processional and the entertainment commemorating the international spirit of the season, this event puts me in such a good holiday mood. I recently visited World Showcase to check out some of the unique shopping experiences created especially for this year’s event. This year, we are offering some Disney pins to celebrate the season including a limited release logo pin. There are also two different pins created for guests who are Annual Passholders or Disney Vacation Club members. I love the Figment ornament pin which can be added to a tree. At Germany Pavilion, guests can visit the Christkindlmarkt. Located next to the pavilion, artist Reinhard Herzog will create some beautiful glass-blown ornaments each day now through December 23 (the snowman is adorable). You can also try some traditional German holiday treats such as Glűhwein or Hot Salted Caramel (the latter beverage is one of my favorite holiday drinks at Epcot!). I also stopped in Karamell-Küche in Germany Pavilion to survey the newest treats made with Werther’s Original Caramel. The location is now offering a caramel gingersnap and a caramel S’more. My son tried, or should I say devoured, the s’more during a recent visit to Epcot; he said it was delicious! Guests visiting the American Adventure will find Santa’s Village. This outdoor market offers holiday gift items including character ornaments or festive holiday trimmings. Santa’s Village will also carry Precious Moments including one of their newest dolls that looks like Maleficent. You can also find Mickey’s Merry Christmas Village products from Department 56. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog as I’ll soon provide my annual World Showcase holiday shopping guide. Holidays Around the World Returns to Epcot With Unique Shopping Destinations by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Booking for Star Wars Weekends Dining Packages will return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in 2015 and booking begins December 3, 2014. Dinner at the Hollywood & Vine restaurant and breakfast at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater will offer these galactic experiences May 4th through June 14, 2015. Note that the character meals are available all week — not just on weekends! Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine at Hollywood and VineAt Hollywood and Vine, Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine will feature Disney characters wearing their Star Wars best as they celebrate the greatest saga ever told! See our review from this year’s experience here! You may get the chance to meet Ewok Chip & Dale, Jedi Mickey, Leia Minnie, Darth Goofy, and/or Stormtrooper Donald. Star Wars décor, themed foods, and music create a galactic experience. Advance Dining Reservations will be offered from 4:15-8PM. Ewok Chip and Dale welcome you! Cost: $57.99 Adult, $34.99 Child, or two Disney Dining Plan Entitlements per person. Star Wars Dessert Plate Or opt to plus your Star Wars dinner with the Fantasmic Dinner package. Fantasmic Dinner Package reservations will be offered 4:15-7PM at Hollywood and Vine for $63.99 Adult, $38.99 Child, or 2 Disney Dining Plan Entitlements per person. Star Wars Dine-In Galactic Breakfast! at Sci-FiAnd guests can start their day (8-11AM) with the Star Wars Dine-In Galactic Breakfast at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. Star Wars Pastries Discover an out-of-this-world breakfast while you watch memorable movie scenes from the “Star Wars” films. Encounter Darth Vader along with a gallery of infamous “Star Wars” characters. Watch out for stormtroopers guarding the Galactic Empire! Will you join the Dark Side? Cost: $49.99 Adult; $31.99 Child or Two Disney Dining Plan Entitlements per person Please note that characters, menu items, pricing, and hours are subject to change. These will be popular so we recommend dialing (407) 939-5277 or making online reservations at lightspeed. Are you planning on attending a Stars Wars Weekend? 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 FanRelated posts: News!! Star Wars Themed Character Meals at Disney World During Star Wars WeekendsNews! Star Wars “Feel the Force” Dining Event and Dessert Party in Walt Disney World NOW BOOKINGStar Wars Weekends Darth Vader Cupcake and Other Specialty FoodsView the full article

Attention fans of The Force – get ready to plan your trip to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in spring 2015, because today, we’re unveiling the dates for next year’s Star Wars Weekends. Star Wars Weekends will be held every weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) from May 15-June 14, 2015. Weekend I: May 15-17, 2015Weekend II: May 22-24, 2015Weekend III: May 29-31, 2015Weekend IV: June 5-7, 2015Weekend V: June 12-14, 2015Star Wars Weekends combines the fun and adventure of the Star Wars film franchise with the magic of Disney Parks. The event features the largest collection of official Star Wars characters found at any theme park in the world, conversations with Star Wars celebrities, a Star Wars motorcade through the park and much more. Be sure to stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog and disneyworld.com/starwars for more. Star Wars Weekends Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios May 15-June 14 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Could it be true? We’re stopping by the Gelato Stand in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion and not having gelato?! Learn About:Italy Gelato Stand Epcot RestaurantsDisney World Restaurants If you’re not familiar with this understated kiosk, the main draw here is, obviously, gelato . You can have your choice of flavor served in a cup or cone, or enjoy one of the “Gelato Creations” like the Coppa Delizia or the Espresso Gelato Affogato. There’s also the gelato sandwiches, made with chocolate chip cookies. And a selection of wine and beer is also available, along with a few specialty coffee beverages and Italian sodas. But there are a couple of sweet concoctions here that tend to fly under the radar against all that gelato goodness, so we thought we’d shine a light on one of those today: the Tiramisu. Italy’s Gelato Stand Alongside the Cannoli also found at this spot, Tiramisu is a well-known Italian dessert featuring layers of mascarpone cream and Savoiardi biscuits (ladyfingers) dipped in espresso and dusted with cocoa. Tiramisu This tiramisu is light and creamy, but packed with flavor thanks to the espresso and the layer of cocoa on top. Side view of Tiramisu I don’t think there’s much middle ground when it comes to Tiramisu. It seems to be one of those desserts that people love or hate, without much room in between. Personally speaking, I’m not crazy about it. While I enjoy the coffee flavor and the not-overly-sweet factor, it’s the texture of the soaked lady fingers that doesn’t sit well with me. I didn’t find these to be overly soggy, it’s just a personal preference. View of layers of the Tiramisu However, I DO love mascarpone cream, and I can’t complain about a serving that’s this generous (and I love seeing that thick layer of cocoa sitting on top). Coming in around five bucks, this is a pretty terrific portion for those who are fans of this classic Italian dessert. Bite of mascarpone cream layer Regardless of your thoughts on tiramisu, now is an especially good time to check out this unassuming little stand in the Italy Pavilion. With Holidays Around the World in full swing at Epcot, holiday traditions from Italy are marked at this kiosk with Panettone (a sweet bread loaf), as well as Ciocolata Calda (hot cocoa). So, be sure to swing by on your next trip around World Showcase and say “Ciao,” since there’s bound to be something here to strike just about everyone’s fancy! Have you tried the Tiramisu in the Italy Pavilion? Please let us know what you thought 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: Review: Espresso Gelato “Affogato” in Epcot’s Italy PavilionSnack Series: Coppa Delizia from Italy’s Gelato Stand in EpcotSnack Series: Gelato Ice Cream Sandwiches in Epcot’s ItalyView the full article

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort are well underway, and for many visitors the first stop in their holiday visit is Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park. The street is covered with holiday cheer and what seems like thousands of ornaments, ribbons and lights. But do you ever find yourself asking exactly how many thousands there are? I did, so I wanted to share my findings with you! Throughout Main Street, U.S.A. … 79,000 – Total number of ornaments 10,000 – Total number of lights 7,400 – Length in feet of ribbon (that’s more than 1.4 miles) used to make more than 800 bows 2,000 – Length in feet of garland And on the Main Street Christmas tree … 6,000 – Total number of decorative lights 1,800 – Total number of ornaments 1,200 - Total number of branches 60 – Height in feet of the tree By the Numbers: Holidays on Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Celebrate the season with our new holiday Disney Gift Card designs! Find your holiday-themed Disney Gift Card throughout Walt Disney World Resort, the Disneyland Resort, or online at DisneyGiftCard.com. It’s the gift that is simple for you, and perfect for everyone on your shopping list. Select your favorite design and activate your Disney Gift Card with as little as $15! Join Mickey and Minnie as they deck the halls with this new holiday design. You’ll get all wrapped up in the spirit of Christmas when you give this Disney Gift Card to someone special! If you’re celebrating at Walt Disney World Resort or the Disneyland Resort this year, be sure to grab a festive souvenir with one of these designs, which feature Mickey and Minnie celebrating the holidays at Cinderella Castle and Sleeping Beauty Castle. The Disney Gift Card can be used for practically all things Disney at Walt Disney World Resort, the Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Club Penguin, Disney PhotoPass, DisneyMusicOnline.com, DisneyStore.com, and Disney Store locations in the U.S. Shop for these three designs and many other holiday options at DisneyGiftCard.com. New Holiday Disney Gift Card Designs Available at Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort by Virginia Scanlon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s time to pop in and see what’s what at one of the best Disney spots for treats, BoardWalk Bakery! Learn About:Boardwalk Bakery Boardwalk RestaurantsDisney World Restaurants The Bakery has always been one of our favorite spots for sweet treats, but it’s a can’t-miss every trip since it reopened after a major overhaul last year! The Cheesecake Brownie and Peanut Butter, Banana, and Candied Bacon Pie are some of our favorites! And their Lemon Meringue Tart is probably my favorite pastry treat in all of Walt Disney World. But Boardwalk Bakery is also one of our favorite stops to find those amazing Disney World Cupcakes. The Mickey Oreo CupcakeThe Mickey Oreo Cupcake captivated me at first glance because it’s just so darn cute. Underneath all of the fun trimmings, it’s a very simple cupcake — Chocolate Cake and Vanilla Icing, with a little surprise inside — and trimmed with Red Candies. But the garnish, though simple, adds something pretty special. It also bears a striking resemblance to another BoardWalk Bakery Mickey Oreo Cupcake from the past — the Oreo Bon Bon Cupcake. Mickey Oreo Cupcake Sitting on top is an Oreo Cookie, half-dipped in Red-Colored White Chocolate to resemble Mickey himself! Add a couple of Chocolate Discs for ears and Yellow Candies for buttons, and voila! Mickey Oreo Cupcake — Up Close But tucked inside, there’s another item of interest — a thick, mousse-like Cookies-and-Cream Filling. I love this! It’s a great way to offset the cake, which is moist, but still. Cake vs. Frosting…guess which one I’m picking?? Mickey Oreo Cupcake — Inside And after enjoying the mammoth cupcake, I took the Oreo with me for a fun snack later! I think the Mickey Oreo Cupcake is a great choice for celebrating a trip to Disney. And with the cute, understated Mickey motif, it’s a fun, “I’m really in Disney World!” choice for kids and grown-ups alike. Will you be stopping into BoardWalk Bakery to sample the Mickey Oreo Cupcake on your next Disney visit? Comment below and share with 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: Snack Series: Oreo Bon Bon Cupcake and Peanut Butter CupcakeSnack Series: Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake at Boardwalk BakerySnack Series: Mickey Mouse Cupcake (and More!) at Art of Animation ResortView the full article

Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink takes shape at the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort in this time-lapse video! Come to Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink and the Downtown Disney Winter Village...From:Disney ParksViews:373163ratingsTime:00:59More inTravel & Events

There’s more gingerbread in store for you at Walt Disney World now that the season is in full swing! Let’s take a look at a couple of the most anticipated displays of the holidays… Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Gingerbread HouseThe Grand Floridian Gingerbread House is open for the season! Grand Floridian Gingerbread House 2014 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House 2014 Just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, the Gingerbread House began celebrating its 16th year. Grand Floridian Gingerbread House operating hours It’s always fun to see the massive ingredients list! Gingerbread House ingredients Open daily for the remainder of the year from 10 am to 10 pm (though it will likely close early on New Years Eve), the unique thing about the Grand Floridian’s gingerbread display is that it is a fully functioning snack stop, with Cast Members serving up gingerbread and other sweet treats through this cheerful window. Treat window The traditional Gingerbread Shingles return, along with some other familiar seasonal treats like Peppermint Bark and boxes of Stollen Bread (with a printed history of the traditional German treat attached). GF gingerbread shingle Stollen Bread and Peppermint Bark Mickey Pop The beautifully detailed Gingerbread Ornaments are probably my favorite things to look at. Large Gingerbread Ornament Mickey Gingerbread Ornament Red Velvet Cupcakes are available alongside White Chocolate Snowmen. White Chocolate Snowman and Red Velvet Cupcake Gluten-free choices include Gingerbread Men, but also Ginger Chocolate-Chip Bread, Cinnamon Toastie Bread, and Brownie Bites. Gingerbread Men And if you had any doubt whether the cast of “Frozen” could be found at the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House, too, then doubt no more! You can find Anna and Olaf Chocolate-covered Cookie Pops, Olaf Dark Chocolate Snow Globe Ornaments, Elsa White Chocolate Pops, and large Elsa Gingerbread Ornaments. Anna and Olaf Cookie Sandwich Pops Olaf Dark Chocolate Snow Globe Ornament Elsa White Chocolate Pops Large Elsa Gingerbread Ornament The sisters even got a spot on the House this year… Gingerbread House window You can see the full list of available treats here, along with prices. Just click the image below to enlarge. Grand Floridian Gingerbread House Treat Menu — click to enlarge Disney’s Beach Club Resort Gingerbread CarouselMeanwhile, over at the Beach Club, they were putting the very final touches on the Gingerbread Carousel during my visit. I guess you could say it was a Carousel in Progress. (Bah-DUM-pah! Thanks, folks… I’ll be here all week!) Creating the Gingerbread Carousel Though the chefs were busy at work decorating the display, the main cast of characters was well in place: Fleet, Splendor, Mistletoe, and Snowball! Fleet Splendor Mistletoe Snowball And it was pretty fun seeing some behind-the-scenes magic taking place. Final touches on the Carousel Here’s something good to know about the Beach Club: most of the annual gingerbread displays have the snacks right there at the display, similar to the Grand Floridian above, or the Contemporary Resort’s display. There are gingerbread snacks at the Beach Club, but they are found in the Beach Club Marketplace, the resort’s Quick Service location (which is also the gift shop). Beach Club Marketplace It’s there you’ll find Gingerbread Shingles, this time decorated with the Yacht & Beach Club logo, or Disney Vacation Club logo (for the Beach Club Villas). Yacht & Beach Club Gingerbread Shingle Stollen Bread can be found here as well. Stollen Bread Here are some examples of the cute gingerbread houses that you can purchase at a few of the resort displays. Gingerbread House Gingerbread House Gingerbread Houses Mickey Butter Cookies and Gingerbread Snowflake Cookies are here, too. Mickey Butter Cookie and Gingerbread Snowflake Cookie Unique to the Beach Club are some of the characters you’ll find on their Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pops, like Ariel, reflecting the resort’s nautical theme. Ariel Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pops And here’s a guy you don’t see nearly enough of ‘round the holidays… Captain Hook! Captain Hook Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pops Tinkerbell and Olaf (What? No way! ) round out the batches. Tinkerbell Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pops Olaf Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pops I grabbed an Ariel Cookie Sandwich Pop to give it a go. Pretty cute, right? Ariel Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pop Ariel Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pop And it’s pretty much exactly what the name tells you: a chocolate and cream sandwich cookie covered with a thick layer of white chocolate. And I do mean thick — a little white chocolate goes a loooong way. It was so rich that I found this little treat to be a lot more filling than I expected. Ariel Chocolate-covered Cookie Sandwich Pop inside Be prepared to ring in the holiday sugar rush with one of these! And so it’s gingerbread all over the place here at Disney World… but let’s not forget to polish off what’s left of all that turkey in the meantime . Here’s hoping you had a very happy Thanksgiving, and a terrific start to the holiday season! Which Gingerbread treat would you like to pick up at the resort displays this year? 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: Grand Floridian Resort Gingerbread House2014 Gingerbread House Displays at Walt Disney WorldNews: Gingerbread House at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Debuting November 27thView the full article

The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the newest addition to the growing Disney Vacation Club portfolio at Walt Disney World Resort, offers Victorian elegance close to Magic...From:Disney ParksViews:907580ratingsTime:01:14More inTravel & Events

Ho Ho Ho! We’ve been offering you awesome savings on some of our most popular DFB Guides this weekend — but we aren’t finished yet! In honor of Cyber Monday, we’re bringing you another irresistible sale, just in time for your Disney Trip Planning and Gift Giving Needs! The DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle — 1/2 Off for Cyber MondayWe kicked off our holiday savings with a special 1/2 off deal on our most popular e-book, the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World. Use Promo Code TURKEYLEG to secure this great deal. And on Black Friday, we offered you everything — The Everything Bundle, that is — for 1/2 off! You can STILL take advantage of these savings with Promo Code Everything50 at checkout! Today, we’re bringing you great savings on our most popular combination of DFB Guides, the DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle. Normally, we offer this collection at an already low cost — nearly 40% off of the combined cover prices. But in honor of this, the biggest day of the year for online shopping, we’re saving you even more by offering you 1/2 off the Bundle price! In order to take advantage of these special, limited time savings, just use Promo Code Monday14! Our DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle includes all of the following: A Pre-Order of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition, Due Out Early Next Year — AND the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadThe DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom SnacksThe DFB Guide to Epcot SnacksThe DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios SnacksWith this Bundle of e-books, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips to plan the best Disney World vacation ever. And with our handy e-book format, you can download the Guides to all of your electronic devices and take them with you wherever you go! Sample Page from the DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks And don’t forget — pre-ordering the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition, means that you’ll receive the 2014 Edition for free! That’s five great books for less than $20.00. Give Them the Gift of Disney Knowledge with Our DFB Guide Gift CertificatesIf you’d like to give this great deal as a gift to your Disney-loving friends and family, we have you covered there, too! Check out our line of DFB Guide Gift Certificates, available for our most popular Guides and Bundles! And you can enjoy the same great savings on the DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle Gift Certificate that we’re offering above! Just use Promo Code Monday14 and enjoy major savings on the Bundle when you give it as a gift! The DFB Snacks Bundle Gift Certificate We’ll only have this offer for a limited time, so be sure to take advantage of it before it’s gone! Give — and get! — the gift of great Disney Planning advice this Holiday Season. With our 100% money back guarantee that you’ll be satisfied, you have nothing to lose! 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: Disney Food Blog Cyber Monday Deals!!DFB Disney Dining Guide Independence Weekend Sale!DFB Black Friday Sale: Our Best Deal Ever!View the full article

The construction walls are down at long last, and Food Truck Park is open in Downtown Disney’s West Side! Learn About:Downtown Disney Food Trucks Downtown DisneyDisney World Restaurants Nestled between Bongos Cuban Cafe and the West Side Starbucks, Food Truck Park provides a home base for the four Disney Food Trucks. The cuisine of each food truck reflects that of a Disney Park, with Superstar Catering representing Hollywood Studios, and Namaste Cafe for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. World Showcase of Flavors bring tastes from Epcot’s annual International Food & Wine Festival to Disney guests year round, while Fantasy Fare features dishes from “Magic Kingdoms Around the World,” most notably the Hand-dipped Corn Dogs in honor of Disneyland. Originally slated to open this past summer, Food Truck Park is open at last! Entrance to Food Truck Park AtmosphereThe actuality of Food Truck Park differs somewhat from the original artistic renderings. Food Truck Park concept art The elevated structure that serves as a de facto entrance to the area was anticipated to provide raised seating that guests would reach via a glass elevator. Elevated structure What has come to pass (at least, at this point in time) is a bit more low-key, but still an attractive and open space providing nice waterfront views nonetheless. Food Truck Park Food Truck Park Food Truck Park Waterfront views View of Characters in Flight Balloon Standing tables abound, along with more traditional tables and chairs for those wishing to linger and relax awhile. Standing tables Standing table Tables with seating There are two cool bonuses, I think, that come along with this dedicated space for the food trucks. First, let’s say you were hoping to try the Dipping Safari at Namaste Cafe. Instead of searching high and low all over Downtown Disney for Namaste Cafe, your chance of locating it easily in a specific spot just got a lot higher. Superstar Catering and Namaste Cafe Of course, there is caveat to that statement: the trucks are mobile ;), and therefore still have the potential to be used in other areas — not only in Downtown Disney, but across Disney World. (For instance, while All Star Music’s Intermission Food Court has been undergoing a refurbishment, the Food Trucks have been used at that resort as an additional resource for meal options, including breakfast.) Even so, chances for finding a specific truck or dish have been raised significantly. For a reminder of the offerings, here are the current menus for the trucks: Disney Food Truck Menus — click to enlarge Second, it furthers the opportunity for Disney to partner with some local food trucks. On the day of my visit, I was happy to see that the fun Yum Yum Cupcake Truck was operating alongside three of the four Disney Food Trucks. (You may have come across Yum Yum at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports Complex on occasion as well). The Yum Yum Cupcake Truck The Yum Yum Cupcake Truck This past June, Downtown Disney hosted the “Trucks on the Town” event, featuring not only the four Disney Trucks, but also ten local truck eateries. It will definitely be interesting to see if other local trucks are hosted here in the future, since it’s a pretty cool opportunity for partnership. As was the case with the trucks previously, the operating hours of Food Truck Park will vary based on anticipated crowd levels at Downtown Disney, opening at either 1 pm or 4 pm most days. Closing time will remain consistent at 11 pm. The Disney Food Trucks accept the Disney Dining Plan. EatsNow, I couldn’t be surrounded by four food trucks and just walk away without a bite ;). I hadn’t had a chance to sample the current Superstar Catering menu, which was revamped earlier this summer from it’s original meatball sandwich variety concept. Superstar Catering is the truck which represents eats from Hollywood Studios, and I think the current menu is in better keeping with the park, featuring a Margherita Flatbread and Turkey Sausage Meatball Sub (nods to Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano), and the dish I chose: the Slow-cooked Pot Roast Sandwich (in honor of all the comfort food goodness at 50s Prime Time Cafe). Superstar Catering menu The Slow-cooked Pot Roast Sandwich is a generous (and I do mean generous — be sure to grab a fork!) serving of pot roast topped with caramelized onions and two slices of provolone cheese on a roll, served with a side of house made potato chips. Slow-cooked Pot Roast Sandwich Slow-cooked Pot Roast Sandwich First things first: the pot roast — it was great. Super tender and the good kind of stringy, with just enough gravy to provide an extra burst of beefy flavor without turning the sandwich into a sloppy mess. Pot Roast inside sandwich The provolone cheese and caramelized onions provided a philly-cheesteak twist on this comfort food classic, with the melted cheese serving as a great, gooey companion to the pot roast. Pot Roast and melted Provolone The roll, which I thought might be crusty and crumbly, was surprisingly soft. But the truth is that this sandwich was so huge that it was a bit hard to tackle, so I ended up eating the pot roast mostly on its own, and enjoying much of the gravy-infused bread after, like a dinner roll. I really enjoyed it, but due to the heartiness of the pot roast in combination with the rich cheese, I would opt to share this one in the future. OverallThe Disney Food Trucks made their debut almost exactly one year ago, and in that time they’ve showcased some tasty meals that provide hot food options in a grab-and-go fashion. Being scattered across Downtown Disney, though, they didn’t have much of a “place” — while that can certainly be taken in a literal sense , I mean it more in terms of establishing a developed identity in the Disney dining scene. Food Truck Park seems to have to the potential to provide some of that, while still offering the flexibility of sending the trucks out to other locations and also the chance to work with some local businesses. In any case, it’s great to see some of the construction walls come down at last as one of the first steps towards Downtown Disney’s ultimate transition into Disney Springs! Will you be visiting Food Truck Park in a future visit to Downtown Disney? 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: “Trucks on the Town” Food Truck Event Coming to Disney World’s Downtown Disney on June 21st!News! “Food Truck Park” Coming to Disney World’s Downtown Disney in Summer 2014News and Photo Tour! Starbucks at Downtown Disney’s West Side Is Now OpenView the full article

With Thanksgiving behind us, we’ll be diving into even more holiday goodies at Walt Disney World and Disneyland!! Autumn Cheesecake Of course, we just have to look one more time at some of the Fall treats that added colorful and tasty options to the bakery cases. One of our favorite stops recently — The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. We sampled two Autumn desserts, Check out the Chocolate Pecan Tart and Pumpkin Cheesecake! Visit the links below for more delicious tidbits! Disney Food NewsL’Artisan des Glaces in Epcot’s France pavilion is now offering a peppermint macaron ice cream sandwich with gingerbread ice cream.We have some delicious Fall treats for you from The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge!Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel at Disneyland debuted a new gingerbread house for this holiday season!Check out the new Big Hero 6 Teriyaki Street Dog and Coconut Milk Tea at Disneyland’s Award Wieners! Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including restaurant closures, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. DFB Reader FindsIf you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or from Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! After our Thanksgiving feasts, it’s time to look at some healthier options at Disney. First up, Cucumber Wraps aboard the Disney Fantasy courtesy of our Facebook Friend Narda. Cucumber Wraps Or how about some delicious fruit from ‘Ohana at the Polynesian Resort in Walt Disney World. Salwa, our Facebook Friend, sent in this photo. Yum! Fruit at ‘Ohana Have you enjoyed a favorite find? Send in your Disney food photos! DFB Black Friday Weekend SALE!When it came time to offer you something truly special for our Black Friday Sale, we couldn’t think of anything better…than giving you everything. Disney Food Blog Guidebooks And that’s why we’re announcing that, for this weekend, you can purchase the DFB Everything Bundle for 1/2 off the already deeply discounted price! Just enter code Everything50 at the check-out. What does the Everything Bundle include? The name says it all — Everything! When you purchase the DFB Everything Bundle, you get all of the following DFB Guides: A Pre-Order of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition, Due Out Early Next Year — AND the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadThe 2014 DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom SnacksThe 2014 DFB Guide to Epcot SnacksThe 2014 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 downloadThe 2014 DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World HolidaysDFB Dining AdventuresThat’s every single book in our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides. And with these handy, e-book format guides at your fingertips, there’s nothing that you won’t know about food at Walt Disney World! The DFB Everything Bundle is already a terrific bargain at 40% off the individual prices of the books. But for this weekend, you can pick up the entire collection for 1/2 off the regular Bundle price. That’s nine books for less than $30.00! To take advantage of this amazing deal, just enter Promo Code Everything50 at checkout! With a 100% 30-day, money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! Thanks for your support of the DFB!Apple to Apples Disney version On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix gears up for family night with a Disney Apples to Apples game. Beware the poison apple! Walt Disney World for Grown Ups announces the opening of the Downtown Disney Food Truck Park. Part of the Disney Springs expansion in Orlando! (We’ll have a review Monday!) Gorillas Don’t Blog highlights Cafe Orleans in Disneyland. Great pictures from 1976! Daveland takes a vintage look at The French Market in Disneyland. AllEars spotlights Disney matchbooks from the 1970s and 1980s. Love the restaurants like Rose & Crown that are depicted! Disney Parks Blog showcases the amazing chefs at Hong Kong Disneyland. We love how they take food as art to a whole new level! 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: Disney Food Post Round-Up: November 23, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: November 2, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: November 16, 2014View the full article

Well, we’ve officially arrived at the busiest season of the year, as we sit nestled right between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Still in need of some great gift ideas? If so, our friends at MickeyFix.com likely have just the thing for the Disney fan in your life (or the one in your mirror ). In fact, they spend all year scoping out the most fun Disney finds around… Take a look! While nothing exactly replicates the feeling of eating popcorn on Main Street, U.S.A., this Mickey Popcorn Popper may well provide the next best thing! Mickey Mouse Popcorn Popper And ditto for this Classic Mickey Waffle Iron, for those days you don’t happen to wake up at Pop Century or Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Mickey Mouse Waffle Maker This Disney Sketchbook Serveware features Mickey Mugs, Minnie Mugs, a serving bowl, and a platter available for individual purchase. They’re so reasonably priced that you could get the whole kit and caboodle for one person, or divide it among several recipients. It’s a gift and a drawing lesson all in one! Disney Sketchbook Platter Here’s a few points for us for mentioning something as healthy as apples in a post … Did you know there is a Disney version of the Apples to Apples Card Game, perfect for playing with the kiddos? Apple to Apples Disney version But we’ve gotta get some starches in, too, while we’re at it. And the Captain America Potato Head does the trick just fine… Captain America Potato Head Sure, there’s the famous Siren Mermaid found at Disney Starbucks locations like Main Street Bakery, Fountain View, and Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe, but Disney fans often have a different Little Mermaid spring to mind. How about paying tribute to her with this Little Mermaid Ariel and Flounder Tee? Ariel and Flounder T-shirt It’s GO TIME, people. So game on… and Happy Shopping! Do any of these items fit the Disney fan in your life? 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: Disney Holiday Gift Guide 2013: Great Gift Ideas!Disney Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Disney Mug-a-Palooza!Disney Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Star Wars Kitchen GoodiesView the full article

One of our favorite sweet spots year-round is L’Artisan des Glaces in Epcot’s France pavilion at Walt Disney World. Learn About:L'Artisan des Glaces Epcot RestaurantsDisney World Restaurants They’re always dreaming up awesome new treats that incorporate their fresher-than-fresh ice cream and sorbets. With decadent eats throughout the year (Ice Cream Martini!!) and specialty items for holidays, L’Artisan continually surprises us with house-made ice cream concoctions. And now for the 2014 holidays, L’Artisan has unveiled a new Peppermint Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich! This lovely treat is made with their very own peppermint ice cream. Holiday Peppermint Ice Cream Sandwich And don’t forget to indulge in their gingerbread ice cream this season as well — part of Epcot’s Holidays Around the World! Is L’Artisan des Glaces on your list of must-stop places while in Epcot? Let us know your favorite treats 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 FanRelated posts: Review: NEW Vanilla Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich at L’Artisan des Glaces in Epcot’s FranceFirst Look! Pumpkin Spice Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich Debuts in Epcot’s FranceReview: New Chocolate Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich at L’Artisan des Glaces in EpcotView the full article

Teen-Directed Film ‘Sock’ Takes Disney Side To Theaters Disney's Yellow Shoes is sharing the second of 3 short films as a part of the “Direct Your Disney Side” project, which is titled “Sock” by Jack Vinetz. How do you show your Disney Side?...From:Disney ParksViews:4545122ratingsTime:01:31More inTravel & Events View the full article

Our Learn to Draw animation series continues this week with a lesson on how to draw one of our newest Disney sidekicks – Baymax from “Big Hero 6!” Come draw your favorite Disney characters:...From:Disney ParksViews:6814148ratingsTime:14:33More inTravel & Events

Whew! I hope you had an awesome Thanksgiving Day yesterday! But today feels kind of like a sit-around-the-house-and-plan-a-Disney-trip kind of day, so it’s time to carry on the holiday weekend with a little more celebrating… . Check out our biggest DFB Guide Discount EVER! The DFB Everything Bundle — Half Off This WeekendWhen it came time to offer you something truly special for our Black Friday Sale, we couldn’t think of anything better…than giving you everything. Disney Food Blog Guidebooks And that’s why we’re announcing that, for this weekend, you can purchase the DFB Everything Bundle for 1/2 off the already deeply discounted price! Just enter code Everything50 at the check-out. What does the Everything Bundle include? The name says it all — Everything! When you purchase the DFB Everything Bundle, you get all of the following DFB Guides: A Pre-Order of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition, Due Out Early Next Year — AND the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadThe 2014 DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom SnacksThe 2014 DFB Guide to Epcot SnacksThe 2014 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 downloadThe 2014 DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World HolidaysDFB Dining AdventuresThat’s every single book in our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides. And with these handy, e-book format guides at your fingertips, there’s nothing that you won’t know about food at Walt Disney World! Holiday Guide! The DFB Everything Bundle is already a terrific bargain at 40% off the individual prices of the books. But for this weekend, you can pick up the entire collection for 1/2 off the regular Bundle price. That’s nine books for less than $30.00! To take advantage of this amazing deal, just enter Promo Code Everything50 at checkout! Want to Be Super Popular With All of Your Disney-Loving Friends and Family This Season? Give Them the Everything Bundle as a Gift!Giving the gift of Disney food knowledge has never been easier than it is with our DFB Guide Gift Certificates. And right now, you can also enjoy the same half off deal on our Everything Bundle Gift Certificate! Just enter Promo Code Everything50 at checkout! DFB Everything Bundle Gift Certificate Yep — today’s a plan-a-Disney-trip kind of day. Sounds just about perfect. ;-D So what are you waiting for? Start clicking away and take care of everyone on your shopping list while enjoying your turkey leftovers, and without the hassle of fighting the crowds! 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: Memorial Day Sale! DFB Disney World Dining Guidebook Discounts — Limited Time!Father’s Day Sale! DFB Disney World Dining Guidebook Discounts — Limited Time!Bundles of Savings: Epcot Food and Wine Festival Midpoint Sale!View the full article

See how Disneyland Resort Hotel Programs Coordinator Dave Lay and his team leads hotel guests through these one-of-a-kind activities in this “Every Role a Starring Role!” http://di.sn/qvo...From:Disney ParksViews:579391ratingsTime:02:21More inTravel & Events