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The “Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!” Street Party stepped off at Magic Kingdom Park on Friday, offering a traveling celebration that encourages guests to party right along. Gallery‘Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It’ Street Party Livens Up Magic Kingdom Park view allThe party features Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and other favorite Disney friends. Guests get to vote on songs for the Street Party’s playlist (see Shawn Slater’s original blog post for more details on that). Our cameras were out for the inaugural Street Party – here’s what guests had to say. Want to catch a Street Party for yourself? Check the Times Guide at the park on the day of your visit for more information. ‘Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It’ Street Party Livens Up Magic Kingdom Park by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The “Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!” Street Party stepped off at Magic Kingdom Park on Friday, offering a traveling celebration that encourages guests to party right along. Who's ready...From:Disney ParksViews:204151ratingsTime:01:56More inTravel & Events

Time is running out to experience all of the Halloween Time fun at the Disneyland Resort, including the popular Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree in Disneyland park! This Halloween headquarters is found deep in the heart of Frontierland, and features Disney Villains, Disney characters in their Halloween costumes, pumpkin carvers, magicians and more. Take a look … What is your favorite part of the Halloween Carnival? Let us know in the comments! Visit the Halloween Carnival at Disneyland Park Before Halloween Time Ends by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Time is running out to experience all of the Halloween Time fun at the Disneyland Resort, including the popular Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree in Disneyland park! http://di.sn/bvB.From:Disney ParksViews:178151ratingsTime:01:24More inTravel & Events

We’re excited to announce that @DisneyCruiseLine is now on Instagram! Starting this week, we’ll be sharing your Disney memories from out at sea, just like we do for your vacations on land from the @WaltDisneyWorld, @Disneyland and @DisneyAulani Instagram feeds. In addition to featuring our favorite fan photos posted on Instagram, we’ll be sharing exclusive photos taken from crew members. I, for one, cannot wait to get this insider’s look at the fun taking place aboard our ships and in the destinations we visit around the world. Follow @DisneyCruiseLine today and start sharing photos from your last voyage with us. Be sure to include #DisneyCruise, and your photo may be featured on our feed! Disney Cruise Line Joins the Instagram Fun by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It was just announced that Chef Masaharu Morimoto, who many of you know from his appearances on Iron Chef America, is opening a one-of-a-kind dining experience in the heart of Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort. Morimoto Asia will be the Japanese master chef’s first-ever pan-Asian restaurant featuring flavors from across the continent. This Disney Springs dining destination will include unique exhibition kitchens showcasing traditions like Peking duck carving, and dim sum. “I’m very excited to bring this new concept to Disney, something I’ve always dreamed of,” said Chef Morimoto. “It’s a wonderful chance to share some of my favorite foods from across the Asian continent.” The two-story restaurant is scheduled to open in the Summer 2015 at The Landing (formerly Pleasure Island) in Disney Springs. Morimoto Asia will feature waterside seating, terraces, a grand hall and a cocktail lounge. Also today, another new concept dining experience, The BOATHOUSE, was announced for The Landing in Disney Springs. The BOATHOUSE will be an upscale, waterfront dining experience that’ll immerse guests both on land and on water with live music, guided tours aboard the Captain’s piloted 40-foot Italian Water Taxi with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries and guided Amphicar rides that launch from land, enter the water, and take guests on a 20-minute tour of the landmarks of Disney Springs. “We are very excited that the BOATHOUSE is joining the Walt Disney World family at Disney Springs,” says creator Steven Schussler. “Walt Disney Imagineering has created a wonderful, interactive, culinary and entertainment experience at Disney Springs. We are proud to be part of this magical experience.” The BOATHOUSE will open in the Spring of 2015 in Disney Springs. The restaurant’s gourmet menu (served daily until 2 a.m.) will feature steaks, chops, seafood and a raw bar. The BOATHOUSE is the latest project of Schussler Creative, the creators of Rainforest Cafe, T-Rex and Yak & Yeti at the Walt Disney World Resort. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more updates on Morimoto Asia and The BOATHOUSE as well as other new experiences coming to Disney Springs. Morimoto Asia, BOATHOUSE Dining Experiences Coming to Disney Springs in 2015 by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Only a few more days until Halloween! You have your costume ready? If not, that’s ok! You still have plenty of time left to show off your Halloween Disney Side by uploading family photos of Halloween home decor, food and drinks, carved pumpkins and costumes themed to Disney Parks attractions at DisneySideContest.com. Each photo uploaded enters you for a chance to win that grand prize of a private “Midnight at the Haunted Mansion” party for you and three guests with a spooky overnight stay in Cinderella Castle. This week’s post is all about costumes. We sent Disney Parks Blog author, Steven Miller over to the Creative Costuming “lab” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios to get some tips from Disney Costuming’s Glen Howard. (Steven showed his Disney Side this year with a magnificent costume inspired by the Epcot Millennium Celebration’s Tapestry of Nations parade. Let’s take a look at what Steven and Glen cooked up. Wow. I should get going on my costume. And you should check out DisneySideContest.com to enter for a chance to win some eerie, scary prizes, including that private “Midnight at the Haunted Mansion” party for you and three guests with a spooky overnight stay in Cinderella Castle. You can “Haunt Your Disney Side” all the way through Nov. 4! NO PURCH NEC. Ends 11/4/14 at 11:59:59 PM ET. 50 US/DC/Canada (excl. QC), 18/age of majority +. Void where prohibited. Subject to Official Rules. For more from the Haunt Your Disney Side contest, visit the posts below: Haunt Your Disney Side Contest, Week 3 (Pumpkin Carving Tips)Home Decor Experts Sabrina Soto, Michael Moloney Help ‘Haunt’ Your Disney Side For New Disney Parks Contest Haunt Your Disney Side Contest, Week 2 (Food and Beverage Tips) Haunt Your Disney Side Contest, Week 4 (Costumes) by Charles Stovall, Public Relations, manager: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Want to have the best Jungle Cruise skipper costume this year? Or maybe a Hitchhiking Ghost from the Haunted Mansion is more for you. Here are some DIY Disney Costume ideas to help you Haunt...From:Disney ParksViews:3529493ratingsTime:03:18More inTravel & Events

We are back with another delicious taste of the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Welcome to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! A big draw of the Festival is the variety of fantastic dishes you can taste from all over the world at Marketplace Booths. And this year, we’ve enjoyed some really great options. We’ve been fans of the Bobotie served at Tusker House and Boma for quite a while. The South African dish is reminiscent of a quiche with its egg base, but interesting ingredients, like raisins and traditional spices, give it a flavor that’s completely unique. This year, the Africa Marketplace Booth offers up a version made with Turkey and Mushrooms. South African Bobotie Although Bobotie normally contains bread, this is a gluten-free version that’s prepared without it. The recipe utilizes mushrooms to provide hearty flavor, and their addition allows you to use less meat. You could even omit the turkey altogether and increase the mushrooms for a meatless version. South African Bobotie with Turkey and MushroomsAfrica Marketplace Booth Serves 4-6 Ingredients: Garlic Oil: 1/4 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary Roasted Mushrooms: 1 pound button mushrooms, washed, trimmed, and quartered 2 tablespoons garlic oil coarse salt, freshly ground pepper, to taste Bobotie: 1 pound ground turkey 2 tablespoons garlic oil 1/2 cup diced Spanish onion 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes 2 teaspoons garam masala* 1 cup diced green apple 1/4 cup golden raisins coarse salt, freshly ground pepper, to taste 1 1/2 cups half and half 4 eggs 1/8 teaspoon salt Instructions:For Garlic Oil: Purée all ingredients together in food processor or blender. Set aside. For Roasted Mushrooms: 1. Preheat oven to 375° F. Toss mushrooms in 2 tablespoons garlic oil in large bowl and season with salt and pepper. 2. Spread mushrooms on a 15 x 10-inch baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes, or until mushrooms release liquid. Remove from oven and drain liquid. Return mushrooms to oven and continue to roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until mushrooms are browned but still tender. Drain any additional liquid. Cool and finely chop. Set aside. For Bobotie: 1. Preheat oven to 325° F. Spray 9-inch square baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. 2. Cook ground turkey in large skillet, crumbling into smaller pieces, until meat is cooked through. Drain and set aside. 3. Heat 2 tablespoons garlic oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, or until transluscent. 4. Add curry powder, red pepper flakes, and garam masala. Stir 1 to 2 minutes, or until lightly toasted and fragrant. 5. Stir in turkey, mixing well. Add roasted mushrooms, apples, and raisins; cook 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon mixture into baking pan using slotted spoon. 6. Whisk together half and half, eggs, and salt in large bowl. Pour mixture evenly over meat. 7. Bake 45 to 50 minutes, or until custard sets and top is golden brown. Let sit for 15 minutes before serving. *Garam Masala is a blend of ground spices common in North Indian cuisine and is available in most supermarkets. Want More Details About the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival?We are always working to bring you all of the latest and most important news and updates on the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival right here, so stay tuned for details and check out all of the info below! Be sure to join our Disney Food Blog Newsletter for the latest information and details. And keep an eye on our 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Page for updates. 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index — and FOOD PHOTOS! 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival Low-Cost/Free Seminars and Activities 2014 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule and Dining Package Information 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2014 Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend Events 2014 Tower of Terror 10-miler Events 2014 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic: Menus, Booking Info available! How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival EventsTo book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378) starting July 31 at 7AM ET. Culinary Demonstrations, Beverage Seminars, Mixology Seminars, and general admission for some special events will be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents are eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and mixology seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Discounts are by phone at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. News! The DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available! Start planning NOW for your trip with our expert advice, plus information on all of the Special Events, Low Cost Seminars and Demonstrations in a handy take-along format. Use code Chefs at check-out for a $3 discount! Return to the Main 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Page. Will you be making South African Bobotie with Turkey and Mushrooms to remind you of delicious Festival dishes? Sound off in comments below! Recipe Credit: A Taste of Epcot: Festival Food From Around the Globe Cookbook 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: 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Warm Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese IcingRecipe: Eats From the Epcot Food and Wine Festival Cranberry BogMore 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menu Items (Puerto Rico is BACK!) View the full article

This holiday season, the wintry wonder and magic of Disney’s “Frozen” is coming to Magic Kingdom Park with “A Frozen Holiday Wish.” “A Frozen Holiday Wish” features Anna and Elsa in an all-new show on the Castle Forecourt Stage. With special appearances by rugged mountain man Kristoff and lovable snowman Olaf, the show culminates in Queen Elsa using her incredible powers to present a gift to everyone in the kingdom, transforming Cinderella Castle into a glimmering ice palace for the holidays. “A Frozen Holiday Wish” begins November 5 and will be presented nightly through December 31, 2014. Will you see a performance of “A Frozen Holiday Wish” this season? Tell us in the “Comments” section below! ‘A Frozen Holiday Wish’ for Magic Kingdom Park by Shawn Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Today I’m introducing a new photo series on the construction of Walt Disney’s original magic kingdom, Disneyland park. The photos we’ll be sharing over the next several months capture the dawn of a new kind of family entertainment as dedicated, talented artists create a happy place, as Walt described it, “where parents and children can have fun, together.” A year before the park was to open, Walt made a deal with the ABC television network that included production of a new weekly anthology series where Walt himself could give updates on his special project. On October 27, 1954, he unveiled his plans to a national television audience during the debut episode of this new television show, appropriately titled, “Disneyland.” “Mickey and I started out, the first time, many, many years ago,” Walt said. “We’ve had a lot of our dreams come true. Now we want you to share with us our latest and greatest dream.” “That’s it, right here. ‘Disneyland’ … we hope that it will be unlike anything else on this Earth … a place of hopes and dreams, facts and fancy, all in one.” “Next year, our television show will be coming from this ‘Disneyland,’ but this year, we want you to see and share with us the experience of building this dream into a reality.” In that spirit, here’s a rare photo of the site Walt selected. As you can see, orange groves were still very much a part of Anaheim in 1954. The original site was made up of parcels owned by 17 different people. In just a few short months, excavation of the site was complete and the first Disney park was beginning to take shape. Check back for “construction updates” soon. Building the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park by George Savvas: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We’re kicking off Halloween week on the Disney Parks Blog with a special ghost that’d look great on your desktop or mobile device. Our newest wallpaper was created by Disney artist Mike Britton, especially for our readers. To download the art, simply click on the image below. 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 Halloween with our New Disney Parks Blog Wallpaper by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We have a treat for you today — a sneak peek at some of the food that will be served at Disney’s soon-to-be newest restaurant, Trattoria al Forno! Recently, we shared with you a first look at some of the menu items that are planned when the restaurant opens later this year at Disney’s BoardWalk (all subject to change, of course). But I was excited to find on my trip to Walt Disney World last week that the restaurant is already serving breakfast! Well. Sort of. As expected, the closing of Kouzzina left a breakfast vacuum (and a really, really devastating one at that). I was super bummed to see that the Mascarpone  Waffles and other unique offerings might be nixed when Cat Cora’s Disney restaurant would be shuttered. Breakfast at Kouzzina regularly topped our list for best ways to start the day in the World. So while I was intrigued to see that Trattoria al Forno’s breakfast menu was being served already — at its closest neighbor, Flying Fish Cafe, I was skeptical that it would even come close to Kouzzina’s breakfast. But I was eager to try it out and see what would be offered! Now, I’m accustomed to meeting friends for dinner at Flying Fish, so it’s a little strange to arrive here for a 9:00 AM advance dining reservation! Flying Fish Cafe in the Morning Hours Let’s take a look at what I found — focusing on the food, rather than the atmosphere. Menu Comparison: Trattoria al Forno Breakfast Versus KouzzinaSo here’s the good news for all of your who were super sad to hear that Kouzzina was closing. The Trattoria al Forno menu — for breakfast, at least — definitely has some of the same “feel” as the Kouzzina menu. While there are enough standard items to keep breakfast purists happy, you’ll definitely see the influence of the restaurant’s themeing in some of the dishes. To make easy work of comparing the two, let’s take a look at both new and old. Here is the menu that I received during my recent breakfast at Flying Fish. Trattoria al Forno Breakfast Menu — Click to Enlarge And here’s the menu from the last time I enjoyed breakfast at Kouzzina. Breakfast Menu — Click to Enlarge Press Pot Coffee will continue to be offered, something that Kouzzina fans often raved about. While many of the exact items from Kouzzina don’t appear, there are definitely similarities. You’ll notice, for instance, that Trattoria will continue to serve Chicken Sausage as a side item. We’ve seen it on a few other breakfast menus though, at spots like The Wave (here’s a peek at their breakfast) at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Carnation Cafe (see a breakfast review here) in Disneyland Park. Flavors shift in the Mediterranean spectrum from Greek to Italian. Pequillo Peppers give way to Roasted Red Peppers, and Feta and other Cheeses disappear in favor of Pecorino Romano and Fresh Mozzarella. We did notice that the Waffles seemed to make the trip over with a “tiramisu” type flavor — the addition of a coffee accent to the mascarpone. Yay! I was pretty sad to see the demise of one of my Kouzzina favorites, the Warm Honey Pecan Cinnamon Roll. So Far, No Warm Honey Pecan Cinnamon Roll at Trattoria al Forno I’m still holding out hope that something similar will show up when Trattoria al Forno opens its doors! It was awesome. In chatting with the staff, we do know of a few other items that will appear on the menu later that weren’t available when we visited. These include Caramel Apple Pancakes with Streusel-Like Topping, and a Fontina Fondue-Type dish with Prosciutto, Eggs, Vine Tomatoes, and several different types of Cheese. EatsNow that we’ve talked about the menu at length, it’s high time I showed you what I actually enjoyed! I decided to go with a couple of polar opposites for variety’s sake — one savory item, and one super sweet choice. To begin, I settled on the Poached Eggs, Fennel Sausage, Parmesan, and Tomato Gravy. Poached Eggs, Fennel Sausage, and Tomato Gravy with Soft Polenta Served over Soft Polenta, I thought the presentation here was excellent — a breakfast worthy of being served at Flying Fish. Poached Eggs, Fennel Sausage, and Tomato Gravy with Soft Polenta — Up Close The dish hit all the right notes. The Fennel Sausage answered to both traditional breakfast flavors as well as those I associate with Italian food. And the Soft Polenta was actually a really good base for all of this. I’m not a big poached egg fan, nor did I think I was a big polenta fan, but together they worked very well. A Forkful of Fennel Sausage and Soft Polenta The Poached Eggs were cooked perfectly, the Tomato Gravy was minimal enough that it provided a touch of flavor and acidity without being overwhelming. It unified all of the components of the dish. Poached Egg and Tomato Gravy — Up Close But I’ve saved my favorite for last! I just had to try the Waffle with Whipped Vanilla Coffee Mascarpone. As I mentioned before, this one bears a striking resemblance to Kouzzina’s Waffle that featured Whipped Mascarpone, Honey, and Chopped Pecans. Waffle with Whipped Vanilla Coffee Mascarpone The faintest dusting of Cocoa Powder here tells me that they’re going for a Tiramisu-type experience, as I mentioned. Waffle Topping — Up Close In this close shot, you can see the Vanilla Bean Specks and the slight color that the Coffee has lent to the Mascarpone. The topping is smooth and rich, tangy but wickedly sweet. Since Mascarpone is so beautifully high in butterfat, it melted atop the warm Waffles perfectly. Waffle Topping — Inside I thought I’d need syrup or a compote of some sort to “sauce it up” a bit — but I didn’t. That generous scoop of Mascarpone was more than ample to cover every bite. Waffle — Cross Section The Waffles themselves were crisp on the outside and tender inside, and the Bacon provided the perfect salty counter point. OverallKudos to Disney’s BoardWalk to start serving Trattoria al Forno’s breakfast in advance of the restaurant’s opening. First, the meal was delicious. They’ve struck the right balance between providing standard favorites, bringing along some Kouzzina classics, and staying true to the Italian theme of the new spot. Second, I think this gives the Trattoria chef and staff a chance to practice their new menu and see what resonates with guests. I know that many readers have expressed their doubts about Trattoria al Forno, but after this experience, I’m a little more hopeful that, at least for breakfast, we’ll still be able to count this spot as an eatery we’d recommend. Now that you’ve seen pictures of real dishes, what do you think of Trattoria al Forno’s foray into breakfast? Leave a comment and tell us your thoughts about the new menu and the dishes we sampled! 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: Opening Day, Reservation Date, and Menu for Trattoria al Forno on Disney’s BoardWalkFirst Look! Trattoria al Forno to Replace Kouzzina by Cat Cora on Disney World’s BoardWalkSneak Peek at Kouzzina Menu View the full article

Step inside a real race car as GC goes for the ride of his life around the Walt Disney World Speedway at the Richard Petty Driving: http://di.sn/tsX SUBSCRIBE: http://di.sn/q7h About Walt...From:Disney ParksViews:1895ratingsTime:01:20More inTravel & Events

Take a ride with Eli as he builds up the courage to go on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Walt Disney World for the first time. Learn more about visiting the Walt Disney World Resort with Preschoole...From:Disney ParksViews:1646109ratingsTime:01:20More inTravel & Events

This week, we shared an update many of you were thrilled to read – Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post, one of the most popular parts of last summer’s “Frozen Summer Fun LIVE!” event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, is back and staying through the holidays. GalleryThe ‘Frozen’ Fun Continues at Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post & Frozen Snowground! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios view allThe new Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post & Frozen Snowground! can now be found on Streets of America just steps away from Studio Catering Co. and “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show.” It features a larger-than-ever play area with real snow, plenty of “Frozen” merchandise, and those yummy “Frozen”-inspired cupcakes and other treats. To find out what else you can experience, go check out Shawn’s original Disney Parks Blog story. We also posted the finalists from each of the Disneyland Decades – 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000 to the present – for you to decide who has the top Disneyland Resort memory and will win the grand prize: a trip to Disneyland Resort to kick off the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Take a look at each memory and then go to Erin’s post to vote for your favorite. Voting will remain open until 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 29. We will announce the grand prize winner soon after, so stay tuned! For complete rules, click here. No purchase necessary. 18/age of majority+, 50 US/DC only. Void where prohibited. See Rules for details. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. #GetHappierContest Winner Shares Happy Memories from Disneyland Park – See the adorable winning photo from our #GetHappier Instagram contest. Congratulations to Mary Powell from Nevada! The Halloween Tree at Disneyland Park – Read the story behind this Disneyland landmark, inspired by Ray Bradbury’s 1972 fantasy novel “The Halloween Tree,” and dedicated to the author on Halloween night in 2007. The New Anna & Elsa’s Boutique in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort Will Give You ‘Chills’ – Get the details on an array of “Frozen”-inspired merchandise worth melting for at this new shop. Glow With the Show Evolves Into Made With Magic This Fall at Disney Parks – New Made With Magic items will include a new Minnie Mouse-inspired headband, a Mickey Mouse glove and a magical wand, all designed to light up and interact with select Disney experiences at Disney Parks. Pumpkin Carvers Show Their Disney Side During Halloween Time at Disneyland Park – Bridget McCarty, creative pumpkin carver at the Halloween Carnival in Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree, discusses her colorful creations. Another Look at PANDORA Jewelry Coming to Disney Parks in November 2014 – See the new sterling silver Disney Parks “Wonderful World” bracelet from PANDORA Jewelry, styled with Disney-inspired charms. ‘Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!’ Street Party Starts Tomorrow at Magic Kingdom Park – The “Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!” Street Party is ready to make its debut at Magic Kingdom Park! Click through for more details. Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With the opening of Memento Mori in the Magic Kingdom, Haunted Mansion fans now have a souvenir shop to explore! After meeting your Ghost Host, stop in and peruse the shelves of ghastly goodies. Master Gracey crest plate We love that many of these items are available online; just click the links provided! Halloween treats continue to materialize in the Disney parks and resorts. We’re especially thrilled with the treats in Disneyland! Plus, click below for all the details on this week’s Disney Food News… Disney Food NewsMemento Mori is now open in Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square. Take a look at some of the ghastly merchandise inspired by the Haunted Mansion!Epcot’s Liberty Inn has added regional American fare to the menu. We taste-tested the Maryland Crab Cakes with Old Bay Fries.Chocolate sculptures are featured in the “From Bean to the Bar” exhibit at Epcot’s Festival Center during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.Find out what’s inside the BoardWalk Bakery’s Ghost Cupcake!We shared lots more Halloween Treats from Disneyland, including Zero Premium Popcorn Buckets, the Pumpkin Twist from Maurice’s Treats, and lots more!! Yum! 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! DFB loves the rotational dining, specialty restaurants (Palo!!), and lounges aboard the Disney Cruise Line ships. Let’s take a look at some delicious reader finds discovered aboard the Disney ships. Facebook Friend Narda shared two desserts, including this Baked Alaska from the Disney Fantasy: Baked Alaska aboard the Disney Fantasy And here’s a dessert from Animator’s Palate aboard the Disney Dream. My favorite plates! Dessert at Animator’s Palate Do you have a Favorite Find? Please, share with us! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining On Sale!Want a huge discount on our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining? You’ve got it! This is the last day for our special sale, get $6 off the full price of the guide using code DOLEWHIP! The fully updated DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2014 e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 450 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subjects — food and dining in Walt Disney World. It’s guaranteed to help you navigate your way to delicious dining on your next trip! And if you’re ready to get yours now, head on over to DFBGuide.com to pick it up!! What’s In The Guide?As thousands of repeat customers already know, the Guide includes: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks.A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience.Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips!Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning.A comprehensive index of bars and lounges. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic.The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket!Samples Pages of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2013 Here’s Just Some Of What You Get With Our 2014 Guide:Over 450 Pages of Disney Dining and Planning information, tips, reviews, and recommendations!An in-depth Disney Dining Restaurant Reviews section, covering all Disney restaurants, food kiosks, bars, and loungesAn updated Disney Dining Plan section and price analysisNEW Disney food and restaurant photosAn updated Disney Snacks chapter, including our list of dozens of must-try snacks AND our Top 11 Must-Have Snacks for this year.An updated section on birthday parties and specialty cakes in Disney WorldA comprehensive, 10-page chapter of What’s New in Disney World, including new restaurants, menu updates, and moreDetails about how the My Magic+ Planning System and FastPass+ will affect your vacation planningOur picks for the 11 Great Snacks you must try this yearScavenger Hunts, Trivia, and Top 5 List updatesBingo CardsUpdates on all pertinent facts such as dining hours, prices, resources, phone numbers, and restaurant closures/openingsAll new restaurant additions, closures, refurbishments, and added dining experiencesAnd much more!And the best part is: the price hasn’t changed! Should I buy the Updated Guide if I have the 2013 Guide?The 2014 Guide has entirely updated information, an updated Disney Dining Restaurant Reviews section, an updated chapter on snacks, a 10-page “what’s new this year in Disney World” section, extended scavenger hunts, Disney Food bingo, added trivia, and more. If you purchased the 2013 Guide and would like to purchase the New Edition, we’ve got a special discount for repeat purchasers. Email me here to get a limited-time, one-use, exclusive discount code to purchase the 2014 Guide at an $8 discount. Please include the email address you used to purchase the 2013 Guide in the body of your email. For more detailed information and screen shots from the e-Book, head over to DFBGuide.com! With a 100% money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose! Want Even Greater Savings? Here’s How!Great three awesome e-Books bundled for over 30% off! Limited time only… Bundle for greater savings! Our DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle offers: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2014, PLUSThe DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks,The DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks, ANDThe DFB Guide to Epcot SnacksAll three are being sold together for the first time –and for a massively discounted price. Just $35.95 instead of the regular price of nearly $60.00. Our Snack Guides vibrantly display and review over 500 Disney World snacks (!!), but also showcase some our favorite under-the-radar treats and eats in the parks. Get your DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle — including the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2014, the DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks, the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, and the DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks — for over 40% off here. Find out more about the DFB Guide & Snack Bundle here! Thanks for your support of the DFB!Haunted Mansion Gifts On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix showcases creepy Haunted Mansion goodies. With the opening of Memento Mori, now is the time to stock up on ghastly gifts! Cake Wrecks shares pretty Pixar-inspired cakes! DisZine features Disney-branded produce bags for apples. Encouraging kids to eat healthy! Eating (and Drinking) Around the World gears up for the Food and Wine Classic at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resort. DisneyCaribbeanBeach.com announces Halloween events at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Look for a candy corn guessing game and trick-or-treating! Main Street Gazette enjoys steak at The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. 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: Disney Food Post Round-Up: October 19, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: October 12, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: October 5, 2014 View the full article

A crowd that gathered to watch one of the popular Festival of the Lion King shows at Disney's Animal Kingdom left disappointed one evening after it was abruptly canceled. View the full article

Devyn and Hunter do all kinds of fun things like horseback riding, archery and tubing on their first camping trip at Walt Disney World Resort. Come gather around the fire at The Campsites at...From:Disney ParksViews:7913ratingsTime:01:20More inTravel & Events

With Halloween less than one week away, celebrations are now in full swing at Disney Parks. GalleryThis Week in Disney Parks Photos: Halloween at Disney Parks view allHere at the Walt Disney World Resort, guests are enjoying Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party fun at Magic Kingdom Park. At the Disneyland Resort, families are having a blast at Mickey’s Halloween Party and Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland park, and Mad T Party at Disney California Adventure. Be sure to click through the gallery above for a look inside all of the fun. This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Halloween at Disney Parks by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Boardwalk Bakery is scaring up some Halloween fun this year. Our twitter followers wanted to see what was inside this Ghost Cupcake! (And, let’s be honest, I did, too!) Learn About: Boardwalk BakeryBoardwalk Restaurants Disney World RestaurantsNo stranger to unique treats of any sort (Peanut Butter, Banana, and Candied Bacon Pie, anyone?), the BoardWalk Bakery has earned its place as a go-to stop for cupcake gems — both seasonal and otherwise. We’re talking everything from the Red (Velvet), White, and Blue Cupcake to celebrate this past Fourth of July to the recently made-over staples: the Strawberry Cupcake and the (soon to be reviewed here on DFB) Oreo Cupcake. So, it’s not exactly a surprise that the newly renovated Bakery would conjure up a little something (see what I did there?) to commemorate Halloween. Ghost Cupcake Taking it from the very top, our little ghost friend is formed of fondant, just like the Ghost Cupcake featured at Gaston’s Tavern at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. While technically edible, it’s not recommended. He’s really there for decoration and — clearly — a super high fright factor ;). Ghost topper Also like Gaston’s version, his ghostly form is supported by a (totally edible!) marshmallow tucked underneath. Marshmallow ghost The “frosting” is whipped cream (WHY??!??!?!?!???!!!). The whipped topping has been a trend among specialty cupcakes at the BoardWalk Bakery as of late. Blergh. Whipped cream frosting They tried to hide the fact that it’s WHIPPED CREAM with a swirl of caramel and a sprinkling of candied nuts. Good effort, but still NOT FROSTING. Anyway, you know my take on the whole thing, so we’ll move on. You can’t tell from the wrapping, but the base is yellow cake. And the filling? Well, it’s called a “caramel apple” filling, but really it’s pretty much butterscotch pudding with chunks of apple in it. I have no problem with this. I like butterscotch pudding. “Caramel apple” filling CLOSE UP! “Caramel apple” but-really-pretty-much-butterscotch filling It’s cute. Sure. But all in all, as I’m sure you can tell, this isn’t my favorite effort to come from the typical greatness that is BoardWalk Bakery cupcakes. But Halloween is just days away now, which means — ready or not — the winter holiday cupcakes aren’t far behind. After last year’s Peppermint Cupcake, which was one of the greats, we’ll be stopping by BoardWalk Bakery again the minute the very first Resort Gingerbread House hits the scene to see what’s next! Love Disney Cupcakes?Check out dozens of pictures of Disney cupcakage over on our Disney Cupcake Gallery! Would you like to try the Ghost Cupcake? 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: Review: Red (Velvet) White and Blue Cupcake at BoardWalk BakeryReview: NEW Lemon Blueberry Cupcake from BoardWalk BakerySnack Series: Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake at Boardwalk Bakery View the full article

The well-known – yet much-maligned – sorcerer's hat at Disney's Hollywood Studios will come down early next year. View the full article

The magic of a vacation to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is at the top of any must-do list for families looking for a once-in-a-lifetime getaway. With included amenities designed for every age like Aunty’s Beach House, Painted Sky and the Aulani Starlit Hui, it’s no surprise that Orbitz recently recognized this beautiful Hawaiian resort with the 2014 Orbitz Best in Stay Elite Award! The 2014 Best in Stay Awards recognize up to five properties in each category, and Aulani earned the Elite Award for being the highest-rated hotel in the Family category. Each of the winners were selected based on hotel reviews submitted by Orbitz customers and travel experts, spanning 75 of the most popular destinations in the world. If your bags aren’t packed yet, there is still time to book a consecutive four-night stay at this award-winning resort and receive the fourth night free! This offer is available to book through October 30, 2014, for most vacations to Aulani through December 22, 2014. Don’t forget – you can also upgrade to a one- or two-bedroom villa and receive a $100 per night resort credit, in addition to your free night. Learn more about this limited-time offer here! What does your family love most about a vacation to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa? Tell us in the comments below! And the 2014 Orbitz Best in Stay Elite Award Goes to … Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa! by Tyler Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With some never before seen fancy footwork, unique dance moves and a cheer lift, Minnie Mouse and her spirit team recently stopped by the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort to cheer on her Disney Side. Performing never before seen moves, Minnie is looking to inspire college cheer and dance squads to show their Disney Side and compete in the nationwide Cheer Your Disney Side campaign. College cheer and dance squads have until November 10 to create and submit a 30-second Disney Parks-inspired routine using remixed Disney Parks attraction music to show off their Disney Side. Video submissions are being accepted at Espn.com/CheerMagic. Four teams will be selected as finalists and announced December 11 on ESPN around the telecast of the Home Depot College Football Awards show at Walt Disney World Resort. The winning squad will be announced January 12 on ESPN before the college football National Championship. The winning team of Cheer On Your Disney Side sponsored by ESPN working in collaboration with Disney Destinations and Varsity Spirit, wins a $100,000 grant for their college spirit program and a group trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The excitement is not limited to just cheer and dance squads. Fans can get into the action by voting for their favorite Disney Side cheer and dance routine from the four finalists. For more information, rules and to submit a video, visit Espn.com/CheerMagic. This year, Disney Parks is encouraging people to show their Disney Side – their fun-loving adventurous side that laughs more, says “yes” more and just plain lives life to the fullest. ESPN’s Wide World of Sports Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort has been the home of Varsity Spirit’s College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship, the premier athletic competition for these teams, for over 20 years. Varsity Spirit has been a driving force behind cheerleading’s dynamic transformation into the high-energy, athletic activity it is today. Focused on safety, entertainment and school leadership, Varsity Spirit conducts educational camps, administrates competitions and provides apparel for more than 350,000 cheerleaders and dancers. Cheer Your Disney Side Promotion By ESPN. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of 50 US States and DC, at least 18+ who are a School Administrator, Teacher, Coach or Administrative Director, representing a public or private, 2 or 4 year college/university located in the 50 US States or DC. Starts 9/3/14 12:00 PM EST. Ends 11/10/14 11:59 PM EST. To enter visit www.espn.com/CheerMagic and follow the directions provided to complete the Online entry form, and upload your Spirit Squad’s 30 sec videos. For prize details odds of winning and complete Official Rules go to www.espn.com/CheerMagic. Subject to Official Rules. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: ESPN Internet Ventures, 605 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10158. Minnie Cheers On Her Disney Side With Never-Before-Seen Moves by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Performing never before seen moves, Minnie is looking to inspire college cheer and dance squads to show their Disney Side and compete in the nationwide Cheer Your Disney Side campaign. For...From:Disney ParksViews:7710ratingsTime:01:10More inTravel & Events