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The longtime owner of the Mount Vernon Inn was "cleaning out the closets" Tuesday of his 65-year-old Winter Park hotel, which will be demolished early next year to make room for a luxury development. View the full article

If you don’t know Joe Kaminski, chances are you know his work. Joe’s amazing Disney character art has been featured on the Disney Parks Blog since launch and over the years, he’s continued to make magic while most of us sleep – he usually paints from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. As Joe prepares for appearances at this week’s Disney Artist Showcase at the Art of Disney, we wanted to share a special behind-the-scenes look at how this self-taught artist inspires others to follow their passion. Joe’s motivation to create art comes from his children’s love of Disney characters but he was originally inspired to begin after seeing another Disney Parks Blog favorite, Don “Ducky” Williams, sketching Disney characters. Art created by Joe, Don “Ducky” Williams, blog author Will Gay and others will be featured in the upcoming Disney Artist Showcase at the Art of Disney location in Downtown Disney Marketplace at Walt Disney World Resort. We’ve included a schedule of which artists will make appearances at the events. Please note that all appearances are subject to change without notice. November 14-15 – David Buckley, Joe Kaminski, Will Gay, Don “Ducky” Williams, Mark SeppalaNovember 21-22 – Darren Wilson, Tim McCloskey, Joe Kaminski, Alex MaherDecember 5-6 – Brian Blackmore, Tim McCloskey, Jason Grandt, Costa AlavezosSelf-Taught Disney Artist Inspires With Paint at Walt Disney World Resort by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Check out this special behind-the-scenes look at how Joe Kaminski, a self-taught artist, inspires others to follow their passion. See how his art has influenced Walt Disney World: http://di.sn/tvB...From:Disney ParksViews:1284157ratingsTime:05:14More inTravel & Events

The culinary teams at Magic Kingdom Park have been decking their kitchens with festive treats for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Since Disney Parks Blog readers are all on Santa’s “nice list,” here’s a peek at some of the goodies that will be available at the party. How lovely are the branches of the Christmas tree cupcake from Gaston’s Tavern? Spiced confetti cake is topped with decadent butter cream frosting and sugary sprinkled “ornaments.” Of course, no Christmas tree is complete without the glittery star on top. If you’re looking for even more holiday decadence, try the cupcakes at Main Street Bakery. The adorable reindeer cupcake is a peanut butter delight. Vanilla cake with peanut butter is topped with mocha and peanut butter frosting, it’s almost too cute to eat! My favorite? The chocolate cupcake infused with peppermint and topped with a peppermint buttercream and sprinkles—it looks just like a candy cane! I might get coal in my stocking for it, but I couldn’t resist a bite of a buttery sugar cookie from Main Street Bakery. You can also find the craveable cookies next door at Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, where you can make a sweet sandwich with your favorite flavor of ice cream. While you’re there, check out this cool treat: scoops of vanilla and mint chocolate-chip ice cream served in a waffle bowl and topped with hot fudge, whipped cream and peppermint sprinkles. If you prefer soft serve, try the waffle sundae from Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square. Infused with pumpkin, the waffle is dusted with cinnamon sugar, soft-serve ice cream and holiday sprinkles. What Disney Parks treats are on your Christmas list? ‘Tis the Season for Very Merry Treats at Magic Kingdom Park by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

I’ve seen many items and art designs during my 11 years with Disney Theme Park Merchandise. During that time, there have been a few outstanding items that have caught my attention (I’m looking at you, Disney Centerpiece). Today, I’m happy to share what I think is my favorite art program we’ve ever introduced to Disney Parks – Holidays for Your Home. This nostalgic line of holiday decorative items includes ornaments, pillows, home goods and more. I caught up with the merchandise development team to learn more about the inspiration behind the designs. “We’ve been working on this new program for about 18 months,” explained Roger Dressen, merchandiser for seasonal products. “The designs were inspired by a few things from the 1960s, including handcrafted holiday cards sent by the Walt Disney Studios and classic holiday television programming. Lately, we’ve seen a resurgence of mid-century styles in many aspects of design. I grew up in the late 1960s and early 1970s, so Holidays for Your Home is a return to the holidays of my childhood.” To create this new art program, Disney Design Group artists, Mike Sullivan and Natalie Kennedy, used a color palette that would simultaneously feel both modern and nostalgic. Packaging and product designs contain certain colors that give items the appearance of being vintage without looking old. Finally, the use of textures and patterns give many items a handcrafted look. “One of my favorite items is the woven stocking that was meticulously crafted in North Carolina,” continued Roger. “I also love the glassware box which uses the vintage Disneyland and Walt Disney World logos. The whole design of the box makes the package a keepsake in its own right.” The art team included Disney characters as they would have appeared in the 1960s in many of the designs. “We wanted to capture that retro style, while still making sure that guests could immediately recognize Mickey Mouse,” explained Mike Sullivan, Senior Character Artist with Disney Design Group. Guests will find Holidays For Your Home items in select merchandise locations at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. You may also find select products on the Disney Parks online store – DisneyParks.com/Holiday. I hope you have a swell holiday season this year! A Swell Holiday Collection For Your Home Now Available at Disney Parks by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Let’s say you’re in Hollywood Studios. It’s about a million degrees or freezing outside, and you’re hungry. You need some A/C (or heat) and food stat. So, you head right into ABC Commissary. Learn About: ABC CommissaryDisney's Hollywood Studios Disney World RestaurantsMore often than not, I think, that’s the drill for ABC Commissary. The theme (that of… well, a basic studio lot commissary) isn’t altogether exciting, and mostly it has a reputation for being a great place — above anything else — to score an easy seat in the air conditioning, and maybe grab a burger and a Coke. But there are a few dishes here we hadn’t paid much attention to previously that get a fair amount of love from DFB readers. So here we are at the Commissary, ready to try a couple of choices unique to this spot… and do a little exploring while were at it. AtmosphereThe name tells you just about everything: ABC Commissary is themed as a cafeteria on a studio lot — in this case, that of the ABC network. ABC Commissary Sign ABC Commissary Entrance Entering ABC Commissary ABC logo And this completely explains the decor: a very basic collection of insane amounts of seating, peppered with props, pics, and posters from ABC shows. ABC Commissary seating And plants and stuff. ABC Commissary seating Costumes from “Nashville” Signed pictures from cast of “The Chew” Props from “Revenge” Oh, and some palm trees, while we’re at it . Palm tree in seating area Clips from ABC shows are looped on high-hanging screens throughout your meal. TV screen For my part, I got a kick out of seeing this display of props from “The Middle” in the entryway. Did anyone watch this past season’s finale — the one where the Heck family finally gets to go on Sue’s dream vacation to Disney World? If so, you may recognize Sue’s scrapbook and Brick’s own Mickey ears. A script signed by the cast is on display, too. Props from “The Middle” season finale Fun fact! AJ and I got stuck in Epcot’s France Pavilion while Patricia Heaton (“Frankie Heck”) and Neil Flynn (“Mike Heck”) were filming a scene. Here’s the instagram pic for proof! (Not that you’ll ever hear either of us complain about being “stuck” next to Les Halles… moving on!) I believe this cross promotion totally works, because who here is ready to admit that half the reason they begged their parents to go on their first Disney vacation is because you watched the entire Full House gang — Kimmy Gibler included! — descend upon Disney World when “Jesse and the Rippers” landed a Magic Kingdom gig? Anyhoo, enough reminiscing about “Full House” (wait… is there ever such a thing as too much reminiscing about “Full House”?). On to the food! EatsWhile the surroundings here aren’t known for being remarkably unique, the menu has a couple of options that you won’t find elsewhere. Sure, you can grab a burger or a Chicken Club sandwich. A Seafood Platter has a home here, too, featuring shrimp and fish with fries. Ordering stations ABC Commissary menu — click to enlarge But on this visit, my friend and I were up for trying the Asian Salad with Chicken, and the Couscous, Quinoa, and Arugula Salad with Salmon since we’d heard good things. We also went with the Angus Cheeseburger with Horseradish Sauce and Fried Shrimp… for good measure ;). The Asian Chicken Salad comes topped with lightly seasoned chicken on top (though you can order just the salad or top it with salmon instead). At first glance, it seemed pretty plain, with just the chicken and iceberg lettuce mix greeting the eye and the tastebuds. Asian Salad with Chicken But upon digging in a littler further, the snap of the shelled edamame and crunchy noodles gave this salad a nice variety in texture, and the light hint of sesame-ginger dressing provided a boost to the flavor, too. Edamame and crunchy noodles in salad Though I enjoyed the general flavors, I appreciated the level of freshness more than anything. It’s worth noting that both salads on the menu are made “tossed-to-order.” Even though the salads we tried are quite different from each other, they have a few things in common. Like in the Asian Chicken Salad, at first I didn’t think there was much more to the Couscous, Quinoa, and Arugula Salad with Salmon other than the salmon and arugula upon first taste. Likewise, the dressing was put on with a very light touch, allowing the flavors of the salad ingredients to come through. Couscous, Quinoa, and Arugula Salad with Salmon But again, as I dug in further, I was happy to find plenty of the quinoa and couscous blend throughout. Between that and the hearty serving of salmon (tender, and not at all dry), this one is surprisingly filling. If you’ve shied away from couscous or quinoa, I think this is a great way to give it a try — there is plenty of it without being overwhelming. Couscous and quinoa blend in salad The one complaint I’ve heard about this salad is that it has too many black olives. Not being much into olives, I wasn’t looking forward to that aspect. But my salad had so few that I barely registered their presence. I’m not sure if this was unique to my salad or a recipe tweak, but I liked the general blend. In fact, I was struck by how much I enjoyed this salad, finding it to be both unique and well-prepared, and I would get it again. Finally, we tried the Angus Cheeseburger with Horseradish Sauce and Fried Shrimp, for a minor twist on a typical cheeseburger, which comes with fries. Cheeseburger with Fried Shrimp For those who aren’t huge fans of the strong, distinct flavor of horseradish sauce, you’ll be glad to know it’s served on the side. Horseradish shop Essentially, the only thing that differentiates this burger from a regular cheeseburger is the three fried shrimp on top, which you can tuck in your burger, attempt to keep on top , or use as a side item for dipping in the horseradish. Fried shrimp Cheeseburger cross-section The breading on the shrimp adds a nice flavor (can you ever go wrong with panko crumbs?), but the pieces of shrimp were pretty small and thin. While that’s good for tucking them in the burger, if you like, it didn’t lend enough uniqueness to steer me to pay the extra money for the shrimp over just getting the regular bacon cheeseburger in the future. The burger itself was pretty standard — it will do the trick if a burger is what you’re after. OverallWe (and Disney food fans all over) say it all the time: “Disney food is not just burgers and fries.” And I’d say ABC Commissary does a decent job at proving this case. Now, did my most recent visit to ABC Commissary convince me it’s a must-stop? No — I’m such a fan of atmosphere along with my food in the parks, and ABC Commissary doesn’t hold up as well as Backlot Express or even the outdoor eateries along Sunset Boulevard, like Rosie’s All American Cafe, where you can enjoy the park views and the small Victory Garden. However, having enjoyed the salads, it gave me more of an appreciation for what this spot strives to do in bringing a few unexpected items to the table for park-goers, and healthier choices at that. If those ideas strike your fancy, pull up a seat by the sparkling light of some sequined costumes from “Nashville,” and give ABC Commissary a go! Have you dined at ABC Commissary recently? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: ABC Commissary at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosReview: Lunch at The Hollywood Brown Derby in Disney’s Hollywood StudiosReview: Hollywood and Vine Lunch at Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

Starlit Hui features a celebration of traditional Hawaiian and modern entertainment, hula performers, cherished Disney Characters and delightful surprises you'll only find at Aulani, A Disney...From:Disney ParksViews:60ratingsTime:00:38More inTravel & Events

A wedding ring and a new dishwasher led to the sudden death of a Volusia County man on Thursday evening. View the full article

Orlando businessman Nik Patel's companies are being handed over to a fiduciary to continue liquidating his assets, about five weeks after Patel was arrested on charges of loan fraud. View the full article

SANFORD — Attorneys on Monday chose a jury to decide the murder case of Anita Smithey, an Oviedo woman who says she killed her estranged husband while he was raping her. View the full article

Pizza Hut will serve pizzas with a twist in its biggest-ever menu makeover, apparently aimed at wooing 18- to 34-year-old diners, after two years of sagging sales. View the full article

KISSIMMEE — Marcus Faella, head of the neo-Nazi American Front, was sentenced to six months in jail today for teaching firearms and hand-to-hand combat skills to followers preparing for an anticipated race war. View the full article

Spice Road Table in Epcot’s beautiful Morocco Pavilion is now accepting Advance Dining Reservations! Learn About: Spice Road TableEpcot Restaurants Disney World RestaurantsSpice Road Table features a variety of Mediterranean tapas and wines, and is also known for its prime waterfront location offering IllumiNations fireworks viewing while you dine. IllumiNations can be seen from both the covered outdoor seating area, as well as from the large windows in the indoor seating area. At the time of this writing, online reservations are available beginning December 2nd. While it does appear that reservations can be made throughout the standard 180-day window, we’re not certain if this advanced booking option will extend beyond this year’s busy holiday season. Find available seating at Spice Road Table Currently, guests are able to state preferences on whether they would like to sit outdoors or indoors upon their arrival at Spice Road Table, and requests are honored whenever possible based on availability. There is no option for stating preference when making your Advance Dining Reservation. Spice Road Table outdoor seating Spice Road Table Indoor View No matter where you’re seated, this opportunity for reservations will be good news for those concerned about getting a seat specifically in the hour before IllumiNations, which has proved to be the busiest time at Spice Road Table, as anticipated. Spice Road Table Samplers This is a little unfortunate, as we loved having Spice Road Table accompany Tutto Gusto in Italy as a walk-ins only restaurant. But that fireworks view really can affect everything. As always, everything is subject to change. In the meantime, pull up a chair at Spice Road Table — in advance! — while you can! Are you glad for the opportunity to book Spice Road Table in advance? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: News and Photos! Spice Road Table Soft Opens in Epcot on Saturday!Spice Road Table Signage Up in Disney World’s Epcot!Update! Spice Road Table Opening Soon In Epcot’s Morocco Pavilion! View the full article

Allen West, who rode the tea party wave to Congress and Fox News fame, is leaving liberal South Florida for the conservative promised land of Texas. View the full article

It’s the most wonderful time of the year: Holidays Around the World at Epcot where the World Showcase countries reflect the seasonal traditions – including tastes of homelands far, far away. Starting our stroll at Promenade Refreshments, try the Turkey Waffle – a filling sweet potato waffle with roast turkey and green bean casserole (all-in-one holiday dinner). Then head to Canada for pecan-maple bark, a nod to our Northern neighbor’s bounteous maple sugar production. Next door in the United Kingdom, it’s hot applejack cider with whiskey and a blend of seasonal spices – sip while you listen to stories of Father Christmas. France sweetly celebrates with the classic bûche de noël au chocolate (chocolate cake shaped like a log) at Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie, and glace au apin d’epices (gingerbread ice cream) at L’Artisan des Glaces. More sweets at Morocco’s Juice Bar, where honey walnut baklava is on the holiday menu and a Moroccan drummer reflects on family traditions commemorating the holiday of Ramadan. Japan adds teriyaki chicken karaage, a Japanese version of crispy fried chicken bites with teriyaki sauce, at Kabuki Cafe, and you can hear the story of the hollow-round Daruma doll and the Japanese customs of the New Year. Up next, American Adventure, with freshly baked gingerbread men, chocolate chunk cookies and sugar cookies, hot chocolate, hot apple cider and peppermint bark at the Sugar and Spice Holiday Bakery (perfect snacks for the Candlelight Processional). Look for Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with Hanukkah and Kwanzaa celebrations throughout the holidays, plus our favorite Voices of Liberty Dickens Carolers. At Italy you can meet La Befana, the kind-hearted witch who arrives on the eve of the Epiphany to grant gifts to good children – like panettone, the sweet bread loaf served at the Gelato kiosk, along with sweet moscato wine and ciocolata calda (hot chocolate). In Germany, listen as Helga tells the story of the first Christmas tree as you nibble on stollen fruit cake and sip glühwein (hot spiced wine). China is serving kaikouxiao (happy face fried cake) at the Joy of Tea kiosk, where nearby you can watch the agile Monkey King celebrating Chinese New Year. Learn about the Christmas gnome in Norway and indulge in the traditional rice cream at Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe (so popular they leave it on the menu year-round). Finally, in Mexico try the sweet tamales at La Catina de San Angel as you celebrate with Los Tres Reyes Mago, the three kings, as they tell of their journey and traditions. Then take another lap around the World Showcase Lagoon to burn all those calories – ‘tis the season! Tastes From Around the Globe at Epcot Holidays Around the World November 28 – December 30 by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

FSU coach Jimbo Fisher addressed an allegation quarterback Jameis Winston was involved in point shaving. View the full article

A 31-year-old Mount Dora pastor pored over more than 200 pages of notes and 600 Power Point slides as a cheerleading squad chanted and a handful of onlookers equipped with water guns squirted the exhausted man on stage. View the full article

¡Saludos Amigos! Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is returning to Disney California Adventure park later this week, but you can get a taste of the celebration now. Chefs at Paradise Garden Grill are cooking up authentic tastes inspired by Latino culture with a special Disney ¡Viva Navidad! menu. GalleryAuthentic Tastes for Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure Park view allEntrées: Torta al Pastor – Fresh made telera bread with al pastor pork, chorizo beans, lettuce, avocado mash, and crema served with tortilla chips and salsaSopes De Barbacoa – Sopes with barbacoa, chorizo beans, cabbage, cotija cheese, and crema served with achiote rice, tortilla chips and salsaStreet-style Tacos – Three barbacoa soft corn tacos garnished with cilantro and onion served with achiote rice, tortilla chips and salsaCeviche – Fresh fish and shrimp marinated in citrus juices, cilantro, onions, and chiles served with a side of tortilla chips and salsaChicken Mole – Roasted chicken topped with chocolate-infused smoked chili sauce with achiote rice, corn salad and a side of tortillasHouse-made Pozole – Mild chile and pork stew with hominy and oregano served with tortilla chipsDesserts: Buñuelos with Cajeta – Two golden-fried flour tortillas dusted with cinnamon sugar, served with a side of cajetaSweet Tamales – A pair of traditionally-made sweet tamales with pineapple and golden raisinsChampurrado – Traditional Christmas-time Mexican hot chocolate made with chocolate, milk and cornmealKids Meals: Kids’ Cheese Quesadilla – A whole-wheat tortilla with melted cheese, carrots, sliced apples, and a choice of small low fat milk or small Dasani waterKids’ Power Pack – Includes Dannon Danimals yogurt, a petite banana, whole-grain “fish” crackers, carrots, sliced apples, and a choice of small low fat milk or small Dasani waterFeatured ¡Viva Navidad! Beverages: Red SangriaCoronaNegra ModeloTip: The al fresco seating area of Paradise Garden Grill is the perfect place to enjoy a meal while taking in all the sights and sounds of Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Authentic Tastes for Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure Park by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Have you started decorating your home for the holidays yet? Our Holiday Services department works year round to make sure that everything is ready to be installed at each park and resort here at Walt Disney World Resort. Last week, they completed an overnight installation of holiday decor at Magic Kingdom Park – just in time for the park’s first Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party of the season. With the park’s new daily procession, Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade, and its sizeable floats that make their way down Main Street, U.S.A., some of the holiday decor had to be reimagined for this year. Check out this video for a behind-the-scenes look! Walt Disney World Cast Members Transform Main Street, U.S.A., For The Holidays by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Walt Disney World cast members recently decorated Magic Kingdom Park with holiday decor – just in time for the park's 1st Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party of the season! http://di.sn/a00X...From:Disney ParksViews:30158ratingsTime:01:22More inTravel & Events

Now that the holidays have returned to Disney Parks, I wanted to share my 12 favorite holiday-themed gifts from Disney Theme Park Merchandise. Disney Character Nutcrackers – We’ve carried Disney character nutcrackers for a few years at Disney Parks. This year, we introduced some new sizes for figures, ranging from 5-inches to 36-inches. Holiday Sweater T-Shirts – Building on the success from last year’s sweater T-shirts, the softlines team has four new designs including one inspired by characters and icons from “Star Wars.”Retail MagicBands and Accessories – If you are visiting Walt Disney World Resort this holiday season, look for holiday retail MagicBands and accessories such as MagicBandits. The Olaf MagicBand has an edition size of 4,000 while the Mickey and Minnie Mouse MagicBand is a limited release item. Guests must present one of the following for the MagicBand to be linked to at the time of purchase: valid theme park admission, Memory Maker card or an active MagicBand. Disney Pins For the Holidays – Disney pins make a great stocking stuffers. This year, I love the Disney Resort snowflake pins which will be released at each Disney Resort Hotel at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts starting November 13.Disney Ear Hat – Celebrate the season with this Disney ear hat complete with festive, fuzzy plush ears and glittering polka dots.Disney Gift Card Holders – Disney Gift Cards make great gifts and wrapping them is even easier with these two gift card holders.Spaceship Earth-Inspired Mickey Ornament – The seasonal team released several Mickey Mouse icon ornaments this year including one that looks like Spaceship Earth in Epcot. Hooray for Christmas Future!Disney Parks Christmas Train Set – I’ve loved trains since I was a little boy. This Disney Parks Christmas train set is pretty amazing as it includes a locomotive, four train cars with animated character surprises, plus over 20 feet of track!Wayne and Lanny Plush Set – In recent years, I’ve enjoyed watching the adventures of Wayne and Lanny in Disney’s “Prep and Landing” during the holiday season. Now, they are plush set. D-Tech on Demand Holiday Cases – D-Tech on Demand, my favorite boutique inside the Marketplace Co-Op at Downtown Disney Marketplace, will have new holiday designs. Guests can create custom and personalized cases for iPhone 4/4S, iPhone 5/5S, iPhone 5C, iPhone 6, Samsung Galaxy SIII and Samsung Galaxy S4. Look for cases for iPhone 6+ and Samsung Galaxy S5 later in November.Holiday Apparel – I already mentioned the awesome holiday sweater T-shirts but I also liked these two items. The pajamas were inspired by the retro-looking Holidays For Your Home collection.Countdown to Christmas Calendar – Milk chocolate every day until December 25. Sold!Find these items and more in select merchandise locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. You can also find select items on online at http://www.DisneyStore.com/Holiday. Twelve Favorite Holiday-Themed Gifts From Disney Parks by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As the weather cools down, I begin to crave comfort food. We all have a favorite food that is as satisfying as it is nostalgic—Walt Disney himself adored chili with beans. Some of the best memories are made around the dinner table, and I can’t think of a better way to make memories with family than sharing comfort food at Walt Disney World Resort. Here are a few of my favorite tastes of home from across property: From my childhood in Wisconsin, the first thing that comes to mind when I think of comfort food is ooey-gooey macaroni and cheese. At Columbia Harbor House in Magic Kingdom Park, they’ve upped the ante at dinnertime by adding lobster and shrimp to their macaroni and cheese. Also on the dinner menu is the piping hot chicken pot pie, filled with tender white-meat chicken, vegetables and gravy and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. Just a monorail ride away is Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which offers a savory beef pot roast with seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes and gravy. Available only at dinner, it’s just like mom used to make. Contempo Café also recently added some new flatbread pizzas to their menu. My pick would have to be the smoked pulled pork flatbread, topped with barbecue sauce, Monterey Jack cheese and vegetable-style slaw. Head over to ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk for chicken and waffles with a kick—jalapeno-cornmeal waffles topped with buttermilk fried chicken and Angry Maple chicken gravy. Brand new on the menu is a barbecue pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich served on thick-cut brioche. Trust me, it’s as good as it sounds. Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is serving up four new loaded baked potato meals, each served with a side of soup or salad. Choose from a baked potato topped with one of the following: barbecued pork; broccoli, cheddar, and bacon; chili and cheese; or chicken, bacon, and cheddar. Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong. Comfort food isn’t just for dinner. At Kusafiri Bakery in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you’ll find this Colossal Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll, which can easily serve two. Drizzled with caramel sauce and icing, to share or not to share is the only question you’ll have. What’s your favorite Disney Parks food to eat when the weather cools? Comfort Food Hidden Gems at Walt Disney World Resort by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

I can say this much about our pal, Mickey Mouse… “Celebrate the Season” with Mickey and Minnie! He sure knows how to throw a Very Merry Christmas Party! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Celebrate the Season stage show Once Upon a Christmastime Parade Once Upon a Christmastime Parade Jack Skellington as “Sandy Claws” character meet Frozen Holiday Wish Frozen Holiday Wish From the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, to Holiday Wishes Fireworks, to all the fun in between, including character dance parties and appearances, special stage shows, and a whole, huge CASTLE to light up with our Frozen friends from Arendelle… well, there’s a LOT to take in! Magic Kingdom for the holidays If you’re attending this special ticket event this year, you’ll need some nourishment to sustain you through all this yuletide cheer. So, let’s get holiday snackin’, shall we? Complimentary Holiday TreatsSeveral locations all around Magic Kingdom have been set up as Complimentary Holiday Treat Stations for the party. To find them, you can check your special party map. Party Map Holiday Treat Stations Or you can just look for these GIGANTIC candy canes marking each spot. Holiday Treat Station candy cane marker Each snack station has lots of festive Cast Members ready to hand you a couple of yummy, super soft Snickerdoodle cookies and a cup of hot cocoa! Complimentary Holiday Treat sign Holiday Treat Station Snickerdoodles and hot cocoa Apple slices and apple juice are available as a healthier option. And the apple juice is very nicely chilled, so if your party falls on a warmer night it’s good for a cool down, too. Apple slices and apple juice Guests with allergy concerns can simply ask a Cast Member for options, which include Enjoy Life brand gluten free crunchy chocolate chip cookies. Enjoy Life chocolate chip cookies Enjoy life cookies in front of Snickerdoodles Remember, you can stop by as many stations as you want, as many times as you want. It’s all included in the fun! Special Party TreatsThere are special snacks specific to the party available for purchase as well. However, they aren’t listed on the map (at least, not as of the first night of the party). And that’s why you have us — to find them for you! Storybook Treats held to tradition by offering red and green soft serve ice cream. Red and green ice cream It’s definitely fun and festive, but it is just vanilla ice cream, despite the colors. If you’re looking for a little something more, I’d suggest stopping by the Main Street Plaza Ice Cream Parlor. They’re offering two specialty snacks: a Holiday Ice Cream Sandwich, and a Peppermint Sundae, featuring vanilla and mint chocolate chip ice cream, whipped cream, hot fudge, and a little surprise all served up in a waffle bowl. Main Street Ice Cream specialty snacks Remember that you can choose your ice cream in the holiday ice cream sandwich, so keep on the look-out for the “flavor of the month” to be holiday-themed. Holiday sugar cookie for ice cream sandwiches That extra special something in the sundae is crushed candy cane sprinkled generously throughout the hot fudge and all over the whipped cream topping, and the end result is a HUGE “Wow” factor… for those peppermint fans among us, at least! To me, it tasted like Christmas in a bowl! Peppermint Sundae I loved it so much, I think it was the second best thing to happen to me at the party. What was the first best thing? Seeing Clarabelle Cow and Horace Horsecollar do the “You Can’t Touch This” Hammer dance at the Holiday Hootenanny Dance Party inside the Diamond Horseshoe. It was like watching a dream I didn’t even know I had come true. Holiday Hootenanny Stop! Hammertime! Clarabelle Cow But back to the food! AND to more ice cream… you can pick up some soft serve at Sleepy Hollow Refreshments in this Mickey Santa Demitasse mug. The Cast Member was kind enough to offer to serve the ice cream in a separate cup to keep the mug clean. Santa Mickey mug and vanilla soft serve Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe is serving up selections from their regular menu of burgers, chicken breast nuggets and rotisserie chicken from 8:00 pm until the party ends at midnight. But they’re also selling this über cute Holiday Mickey Stein for $10.00. Holiday Mickey stein Holiday Mickey stein By the way, a few other restaurants are open during the party as well, including Casey’s Corner and Pecos Bill Tale Tale Inn and Cafe. Of course, what’s a party without cake? Gaston’s Tavern is serving Holiday Cupcakes, a vanilla funfetti cupcake topped with green buttercream frosting, holiday candy sprinkles, and a golden candy star. But that’s not all… Holiday cupcake The frosting and cake were lightly infused with nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove spices, though not overwhelmingly so. It was just enough to give it a festive flavor primarily detected in the aftertaste. SO good! Holiday cupcake cross-section Main Street Bakery had a few cupcake goodies as well: a Chocolate Peppermint Cupcake, and a cute vanilla Reindeer Cupcake. Chocolate Peppermint cupcake Reindeer cupcake And with that, we’re wrapping up this year’s Very Merry Christmas Party adventures. If you’re attending this year, we think you’re in for a fantastic event! So, until next time, remember to be good, because you want to be very sure you end up on this guy’s “Nice” list… Santa Claus! That means you, too, Donald! Minnie, Donald, and Mickey And as the host of the party himself says, “We’ll see you real soon!” Thanks for ringing in the yuletide season at Disney World with us here at the DFB! Stay tuned for more great holiday snacks as the season goes on! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Holiday Fun!We’ve been hard at work, updating the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays, 2014 e-Book with all the latest holiday tips and brand new info you NEED to know before you hit the parks this November, December, and January! With 310 pages of detailed information and multiple bonus extras, it WILL save you time and money during the busiest season in Walt Disney World! And it’s here just in time! And since we want you to save some cash right NOW, we have a special discount for DFB readers (as always!). Get the brand new guide for $3 off the regular purchase price for a limited time! How? Use code JINGLE at the check-out. The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2014 e-Book features 310 pages of all the info you need to know (and not JUST food!) before you head to Walt Disney World for the holiday season, including NEW events and holiday happenings, plus over 250 photos. Don’t forget to pick up your copy for a $3 off using code JINGLE at the check-out! Happy holidays from all of us here at DFB. Are you attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party? If so, what are you looking forward to the most? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Guest Review: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party TreatsSneak Peek! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party EatsIt’s November; Merry Christmas! Holiday Treats Pop Up in Disney Parks View the full article

Florida fans are in a fix View the full article

The Disney Parks Online Store will be releasing some shirts this month that I think Disney fans will love. The first shirt was inspired by the Jingle Cruise which was first introduced in Adventureland at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts last holiday season. These shirts were designed by Disney Design Group artist Richard Terpstra and will be printed on a Hanes Nano-Tee for adults and a Hanes Beefy-Tee for kids. Look for the Jingle Cruise shirts online from November 10-13, 2014. Please allow 3-5 weeks for delivery. There will also be shirts celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”. This animated feature was first released in theaters on November 17, 1989. Shirts will be offered for both adults and kids from November 14-18, 2014. Shirts will be shipped in 4-6 weeks. To find these shirts, visit http://www.DisneyStore.com/ParkEvents on the dates listed above. Jingle Cruise and Disney’s The Little Mermaid Are Featured Online Only Shirts For November 2014 by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article