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In honor of Earth Day next week and the fact that many children have an endless fascination with animals, we wanted to focus this week’s #DisneyKids story on our furry, feathered and scaled friends at the Walt Disney World Resort. There are quite a few areas both in the theme parks and at the resorts where guests of all ages can interact with their favorite animals. As the name suggests, Disney’s Animal Kingdom park is home to magnificent creatures across 250 species, and is an incredible place for little ones to learn about wildlife. Even better, there are several self-guided areas where families can go at their own pace without lines – perfect for toddlers who aren’t interested in sitting still for long. Pangani Forest Exploration Trail is a favorite of my own little girls because they can decide how long we spend checking out each animal like gorillas and hippos. For a day outside of the theme parks, another place that is a huge hit with horse lovers is the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at the laid-back Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Little ones over the age of two can enjoy pony rides, and the entire family can take a carriage or wagon ride through the beautiful resort grounds. Check out more ideas for your little animal lovers here. #DisneyKids: Enjoying Earth Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom by Jamie Langdon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

They’re finally back! All of you who love to collect the popular Starbucks “You Are Here” Mugs can now finally add the Epcot Cup to your collection. The mugs are once again being sold in the Fountain View Starbucks location in Walt Disney World’s Epcot. New Epcot Starbucks “You Are Here” Mug, Featuring a Grey Monorail (Photo Credit Steven A. Miller) Starbucks and Disney originally introduced the joint collaboration mugs earlier this year, and debuted versions for Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Epcot. (Disney’s Animal Kingdom will have a mug as well when the new Starbucks planned for that park opens soon.) However, the Epcot mug was almost immediately removed from the shelves when it was noted that the monorail featured on the mug had a purple stripe in keeping with the cup’s color scheme. Monorail Purple was one of two trains involved in the 2009 fatal accident that took the life of pilot Austin Wuennenberg. After the accident, the train was retired. Original Epcot “You Are Here” Mug with Purple Monorail When the mugs were removed, Disney and Starbucks promised to return an updated version to store shelves shortly. The new cups, which feature a grey train, went on sale earlier this week. There’s little doubt that the mugs will be popular with guests and are likely to sell well. If you’re looking to complete a collection, keep in mind that similar mugs are also available for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. Will you be adding the new Epcot “You Are Here” Mug to your collection? Let us know your thoughts in comments below! Source: Orlando Sentinel 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 Pulls Starbucks “Monorail Purple” Epcot Mug from Shelves News! Disney Park Mugs Arrive at Starbucks Locations in Disney World and Disneyland Spotted: Unique Holiday Mugs at Disney World Starbucks View the full article

Mother’s Day is around the corner on Sunday, May 10. Of course, taking mom to Disneyland Resort is a treat in itself, but if you want to make it a little sweeter, check out all our specialty offerings, available only on May 10. At Carnation Cafe, look for a delicious (and healthful) Teriyaki Honey Grilled Salmon with Spinach Orzo. Bengal Barbecue has a Jambalaya Skewer, sure to spice up mom’s day. Over in Disney California Adventure park, Carthay Circle Restaurant will be serving up the “Carthay Benedict” for lunch. Their spin on this classic brunch dish is two poached eggs served on grilled petit filet medallions, country corn bread and ranchero black beans, with poblano chili hollandaise. Blue Bayou Restaurant will be serving up a special just for the day: crayfish and herb-crusted roasted sea bass on top of angel hair pasta, tossed with vine-ripened tomato fennel sauce, asparagus spears and herb tomatoes. Over in Frontierland, try the lemon blueberry funnel cake from Stage Door Café. A specialty red velvet cupcake will also be available at Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café and Pacific Wharf Café. With white chocolate mousse frosting, white chocolate flower, heart and square garnish, and strawberry chocolate curls, it’s sure to make mom’s day extra special. If you are looking for a more traditional way to celebrate mom, try the Mother’s Day Buffet Brunch available at Storyteller’s Café, Disney’s PCH Grill and Goofy’s Kitchen. For reservations, visit Disneyland.com/dine, or call 714-781-DINE. Happy Mother’s Day! Special Treats for Mother’s Day at Disneyland Resort by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

YouTubers AJ Rafael & Roxy Darr enjoy a little Disney date at Walt Disney World in search of their Disney Side! What is your idea of the perfect Disney date? http://di.sn/6008f6aY See more...From:Disney ParksViews:6100237ratingsTime:02:19More inTravel & Events

From:YouTube HelpViews:13003690ratingsTime:03:56More inHowto & Style

Tomorrowland Vision Of Tomorrow with Walt Disney | Disney Parks According to “Tomorrowland” Director & Co-Writer Brad Bird and Co-Writer Damon Lindelof, it was Walt's vision of the future that provided them with a lot of inspiration when creating...From:Disney ParksViews:6052202ratingsTime:02:03More inTravel & Events View the full article

In 2005, actress Ashley Brown made her Broadway debut as Belle in “Beauty and the Beast,” and then in 2006, made Disney history when she originated the title role of Mary Poppins in the show’s grand Broadway debut. Talk about living out your Disney dreams! This award-winning actress is visiting the Walt Disney World Resort soon for some fun in the Florida sun – and she’s taking your questions! This is your chance to ask Ashley a question on some of her Walt Disney World “favorites,” including attractions and places to dine, shop, stay, etc. We’ll be back next week with a video as Ashley answer them to share some of her Disney Parks “favorites” with all of you. Please post your questions now in the ‘comments’ section below. Actress Ashley Brown Visits Walt Disney World, Answers Your Parks Questions by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Now that I’ve told you about the wine, martini and champagne tastings you can join on your next Disney cruise, it’s time to talk about our whiskey and Cognac seminars. These tastings give you a chance to sample spirits aged to perfection, learning to appreciate their unique characteristics and tastes. Whiskey Tasting Our Whiskey Tasting is for both those of you with experience drinking this spirit and those of you who are interested in making it your drink of choice. You’ll explore different types, including Scotch, Irish, Canadian and American whiskeys, learning what they are made from and the process of making them. The bartender will teach you how to properly drink whiskey and how to recognize its aromas and flavors. Cognac Tasting What is Cognac, and how do you actually pronounce it? This seminar dives into these commonly asked questions and so much more, including the history and production method of this smooth drink. Like all fine beverages, there’s an art to tasting Cognac, which our bartender will thoroughly explain during this interesting experience. Some of the Cognacs you’ll sample could include Courvoisier, Hennessy and Remy Martin. Now that I’ve shared seminars for all tastes, next week I’ll tell you about one that is perfect for couples…chocolate and liquor tasting! Whiskey and Cognac Tastings on a Disney Cruise by Salah Chetbi: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Senate Finance Committee hearings can often be an uptight and stiff affair, but one senator unintentionally lightened the mood Thursday thanks to an earworm from Disney's "Frozen." View the full article

What kid doesn’t love chicken nuggets? And what parent wouldn’t love for them to be healthier too? In celebration of Healthy Kids’ Day on April 17, we’re sharing the recipe for Grandpa’s Crispy Baked Chicken from 50’s Prime Time Café at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where everything on the menu is inspired by old-fashioned home cooking. The chicken is one of four kids’ meals that get the “Mickey Check” – a tool that makes it easier to identify nutritious choices, found on select kids’ meals and fruit carts throughout Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. To receive the Mickey Check, foods must meet The Walt Disney Company Nutritional Guidelines developed by health experts and align to federal dietary guideline recommendations. So while the kids are having fun at 50’s Prime Time (watching TV and being playfully scolded by the waitresses), they are enjoying good-for-you tastes like grilled salmon, turkey meatloaf, meatless meatballs over multigrain spaghetti and this healthful version of chicken nuggets that is served with mashed potatoes, carrots and fruit salad. Grandpa’s Crispy Baked Chicken Serves 6 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil2 cloves garlic, minced2 pounds chicken tenderloins2 cups panko (Japanese-style bread crumbs)Mix oil and garlic in a large bowl. Add chicken tenderloins, cover and refrigerate at least 24 hours. Preheat oven to 425°F.Press panko gently against each chicken strip until evenly coated. Lay coated chicken strips on a rack on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, turn and bake 5 additional minutes, or until chicken is completely cooked and crisp.Yummy Recipe for Healthy Kids’ Day April 17 from 50’s Prime Time Café at Disney’s Hollywood Studios by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Update: 9:35 a.m. 4/17/15 View the full article

Morning commuters are seeing pockets of fog and a handful of crashes across Central Florida. View the full article

SEFFNER — Sheriff's officials say a vehicle pulled alongside a car traveling on Interstate 4 near Tampa and fired shots, hitting the driver and passenger. View the full article

A while back I told you all about enjoying lunch recently at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe! Learn About: Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn and CafeMagic Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsAt that time, I promised to highlight a fun part of our lunch — the Slush served in a Souvenir Boot. Welp, today’s the day. Let’s take a closer look at this fun little keepsake to determine if it’s worth your time and money. Strawberry Lemonade Slush in a Souvenir BootServing drinks in boots — plastic or glass cups shaped like boots, that is — really isn’t anything new at Disney. After all, we’ve been enjoying Root Beer Floats in a similar vessel practically forever at Disneyland’s Golden Horseshoe Restaurant. Because nothing says vacay like drinking a Root Beer Float out of footwear! (Complete with Whipped Cream and a Cherry!) Root Beer Float at Disneyland’s Golden Horseshoe And just a little while back, I couldn’t wait to show you guys when the boot finally made its way East, and landed at Pecos Bill’s. It didn’t feature a root beer float, but they were serving a refreshing Root Beer Slush out of it at that time. It featured the logo from the hot Disney movie du jour at the time — The Lone Ranger. Souvenir Boot Cup With Root Beer Slush at Pecos Bill — Check Out the Clear Version When I stopped by Pecos Bill’s for lunch recently, I was glad to see that they were still featuring this fun souvenir item. After all, you’ve gotta stay hydrated, so why not? And having a swell cup to take home and remind you of all the Magic is pretty awesome. But this time around, the Root Beer Slush has been replaced with a Strawberry Lemonade version. Souvenir Boot from Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe I was surprised to see that the boot is now black instead of clear. It also features a really cool Pecos Bill Logo. Pecos Bill’s Souvenir Boot — Up Close And it’s a completely authentic cowboy boot mug — right down to the spur on the back. As for the slush — I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was. It was the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a definite hint of Strawberry highlighting the bright Lemon flavor. Pecos Bill’s Souvenir Boot — View From the Back So if you’re looking for a fun, durable Disney souvenir that won’t break the bank, and won’t just collect dust when you return home, I can definitely recommend the Slush in a Boot at Pecos Bill’s! Want More Great Magic Kingdom Snacks?Magic Kingdom Snacks are some of our favorite treats in all the World! And in fact, many of them can just about amount to a meal. And those are just a couple of the reasons we are so excited to announce that the 2015-16 Edition of The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks e-Book is now available! The Disney Food Blog Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks e-BookThe DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks e-Book is one of the many fun and informative Disney Dining e-Books offered by Disney Food Blog! Now we’ve updated our best-selling DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks e-Book for 2015-16 with even more great information, photos, and…yep!…snacks (about 30 more than the 2014 edition)! Don’t Miss Out on the Best Snacks in the Magic Kingdom!To thank you for your support of the blog, we’ll be offering the Guide for $3 off its already discounted purchase price for a limited time! Order your copy now for only $9.95 (regularly $12.95). To secure the discount, use code MK15 at the check-out. I’d love to hear from you guys about this one. Do you collect Disney Souvenir Cups from your trips? Tell us what you think about these useful collectibles in comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom New! Root Beer Slush in a Souvenir BOOT and Chicken Sandwich at Pecos Bill in Disney World New Menu Item at WDW’s Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn & Cafe View the full article

The Orlando Eye, the 400-foot observation wheel on International Drive, officially lit up for the first time Thursday night with the flip of a giant switch. View the full article

For a photographer, Astro Orbitor is one of those Disneyland park attractions that just keeps giving. I have photographed it many times – shooting photos for use in the media and riding the attraction while photographing celebrities, which is very exciting. But honestly, the most fun is when I’m photographing it for the Disney Parks Blog. These first two photos are from previous Disney Parks Blog posts, and show motion blur and excitement. The next three photos of the Astro Orbitor show the beauty of the attraction at rest, as opposed to its thrilling side. GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allDisney Parks After Dark: Astro Orbitor Revisited at Disneyland Park by Paul Hiffmeyer: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Former FSU quarterback Jameis Winston is being sued by the woman who accused him of rape. View the full article

Apparently, trees are not cool enough for Florida drivers. Neither are parents, troops and at least four professional sports entities. View the full article

The "World's Largest Entertainment McDonald's" restaurant will be torn down and rebuilt, but will keep its massive fast food presence on International Drive. View the full article

Learn more about The BOATHOUSE, an upscale waterfront dining experience showcasing steaks, chops, fresh seafood and a raw bar at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World! Read more at the ...From:Disney ParksViews:384692ratingsTime:01:56More inTravel & Events

For some time, Disney has been a leader in the hospitality industry when it comes to serving guests with food allergies and sensitivities. Today, we’re learning that they’re offering options that will hopefully continue to make Disney visits more enjoyable and worry-free for guests who live with allergies. Allergy-friendly kiosk menu After previously piloting Allergy-Friendly Menus at a number of venues, Disney has announced they will roll out Allergy-Friendly Menus to around 120 restaurants. The menus will be available at both counter service and table service locations throughout Walt Disney World and Disneyland parks and resorts. The move will include venues at Disney water parks and Downtown Disney restaurants as well. ABC Commissary Took Part Offered a Gluten Free Menu During the Pilot Program The goal is to provide a convenient way for guests to manage their food allergies while dining at Disney restaurants, and to provide more food options that are readily available. The allergy-friendly menus will focus on the most common allergens: gluten/wheat, milk, peanut, tree nut, and fish. The menus will list allergen content for each menu items — and will include appetizers, entrees, side items, desserts, and kids’ meals. Grilled Wild Boar Tenderloin at Jiko — Delicious and Part of the Allergy-Friendly Lineup The menus began appearing at signature restaurants on April 14, and rollout will continue to other table service and counter service locations through September. Want to see a sample? Check out the Allergy-Friendly menu for one of our favorite dining spots, Jiko. Beneath each item, you’ll see which allergies the dish is specifically created for. Just click each photo to see a larger view. Jiko Allergy-Friendly Menu — Appetizers — Click to Enlarge Jiko Allergy-Friendly Menu — Flatbreads and Soups & Salads — Click to Enlarge Jiko Allergy-Friendly Menu — Entrees — Click to Enlarge Jiko Allergy-Friendly Menu — Desserts — Click to Enlarge Disney will continue to offer guests the opportunity to speak to the chef or another trained cast member about menu options. Guests are also still encouraged to mention dietary restrictions when they make Advance Dining Reservations and/or when they arrive for a meal. Now let’s hear from all of you! What do you think of the Allergy-Friendly menu rollout at more Disney restaurants? Leave a comment and join the conversation! 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! Allergy-friendly Menus Currently in Testing at Select Disney World Restaurants News!: Disney World and Disneyland to Offer Braille Menus at Select Locations Starting March 1st News! New Menu at “Allergy” Kiosk in Disney’s Animal Kingdom (And You Can Still Get Babycakes!) View the full article

This week’s Learn to Draw animation tutorial series continues with a lesson on how to create your own Sorcerer Mickey. This version of the mouse made his on-screen debut in the 1940 film “Fantasia,” which went on to win two Academy Awards. Grab a piece of paper and a pencil and get ready for step-by-step instructions from Don Shane of the Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For previous animation tutorials on some of your favorite Disney characters, check out the list below: Learn to Draw Dopey from ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Aladdin’s Pal, Genie, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Tinker Bell at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Buzz Lightyear from ‘Toy Story’ at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Special Edition: ‘Frozen’ Voice Actor Josh Gad Tests His Skills at Drawing OlafLearn to Draw Mickey’s Pal Pluto at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Hiro from ‘Big Hero 6′ Learn to Draw Baymax From ‘Big Hero 6’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Rapunzel’s Buddy, Pascal, at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Stitch at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Winnie the Pooh at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Jack Skellington at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Oswald the Lucky Rabbit at Disney’s Art of Animation ResortLearn How to Draw ‘Frozen’s’ Anna at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Disney Characters at Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosDo You Want to Draw a Snowman? Learn How at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw: Sorcerer Mickey from ‘Fantasia’ by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It was a Friday night. View the full article

During a behind-the-scenes media event at the Disneyland Resort yesterday, we shared a closer look at some of what is in store for the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, beginning May 22....From:Disney ParksViews:10462144ratingsTime:01:19More inTravel & Events

Are you running on empty when it comes to something new to wear? Then take a spin with me as we take a look at some of the new Cars Land inspired merchandise hitting the streets of Disney California Adventure park. When it came to the new look for the Cars Land logo merchandise, the teams took the term, ‘put some fire in it,’ quite literally. The flame details, along with the classic Cars Land logo on the adult and kids tees, hat and drinkware, adds heat to this red-hot collection. Not your speed? Gear for ladies and kids will have you racing to the finish line. Cruising for something different? The Motorama Girls collection debuting soon will surely get you back to your ‘routes’ and looking sassy and classy for any day trip. Va-Va-Vroom! This next item will get those wheels turning! Last but certainly not least … the new Mater novelty hat! I can attest that as we were photographing the hat, kids of all ages (those adults who stopped me know exactly who they are) were asking where and when they could get it. Can you ‘tow the line’ when it hits stores in the coming months? Be sure to make Radiator Springs Curios, Ramone’s House of Body Art and Sarge’s Surplus Hut in Cars Land a stop on your next trip! Which collection is your favorite? New Cars Land Merchandise Debuts at Disney California Adventure Park by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article