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On Sunday nights this fall you’ll find me snuggled with my favorite blanket anxiously waiting for the latest episode of ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” to air. As a fan of Hook – I mean the show – I was excited to hear that some of my favorite “Frozen” characters would be visiting Storybrooke. In celebration of the arrival of Elsa, Anna and Kristoff Disney PhotoPass and ABC’s “Once Upon a Time” have teamed up to provide you with an exclusive “Once Upon a Time” Magic Shot at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A Disney PhotoPass Photographer will take your photo in front of a “Once Upon a Time” background, then when you visit MyDisneyPhotoPass.com and claim your photo you’ll find a magical surprise – Elsa and The Evil Queen have joined you! To make this celebration extra special, your “Once Upon a Time” Magic Shot is complimentary for a limited time! Just have your photo taken at the location at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, claim your photo at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com and download your “Once Upon a Time” Magic Shot for no charge*. Catch up with The Evil Queen, Elsa, Anna and Kristoff on “Once Upon a Time”, SUNDAYS 8|7c on ABC. Disclaimer: *Separate theme park admission required. Online registration required. Download is available only at www.MyDisneyPhotoPass.com for a limited time and is not available at any Theme Park or Resort locations. Download is restricted to personal non-commercial use only. Not responsible for lost or missing photos. Your ability to download your photo will expire based on the www.MyDisneyPhotoPass.com storage policy. Be sure to download your photo before it expires. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. New Magical ‘Once Upon a Time’ Photo Opportunity to Celebrate the Arrival of ‘Frozen’ Characters to Storybrooke by Kelly Glassburn: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Our favorite new treat this week — the Caramel Apple Funnel Cake from Disneyland’s Hungry Bear Restaurant! This is one you simply have to try if you’re lucky enough to be headed to Anaheim anytime soon. Caramel Apple Funnel Cake from Hungry Bear Plus, click below for all the details on this week’s Disney Food News… Disney Food NewsA couple of treats have recently arrived at Epcot’s Karamell-Küche: the Caramel Bacon Square and the Caramel S’more!La Cava del Tequila honors the beloved — and now retired — Maelstrom attraction with a “Maelstrom Margarita.â€Caramel Apple Funnel Cake is now being served at the Hungry Bear Restaurant in Disneyland!Get a discounted Play, Stay & Dine package at Walt Disney World! 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, Victoria Falls Lounge at the Animal Kingdom Lodge is featuring a new menu with tapas, 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 Reader Megan shared this: seasonal treat at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom: “I enjoyed a Halloween Chocolate Cream Puff with Blood Orange filling on September 28 ( a MNSSHP night). Beware: there is TONS of strongly flavored filling. The cake is excellent and the presentation is so cute, but there was definitely too much filling for my liking.” Halloween Chocolate Cream Puff with Blood Orange filling Facebook Friend, Sue, sampled this chocolate candy corn cupcake from the Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Halloween Cupcake What’s your Favorite Find? We can’t wait to see it! DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks e-BookWe’re thrilled to announce that the 2014 DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks e-Book is now available! And in honor of our grand launch, you can get the new Guide for $3 off the regular purchase price for a limited time — just use code SNACKS14 at the check-out! With over 280 pages of delicious snacks, the DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks is part of our DFB Guide Snacks Series! As always, you will enjoy an instantly downloadable PDF guide with comprehensive information and advice on well over 250 delicious snacks that you can savor at the Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios parks in the Walt Disney World resort. The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks e-Book includes:Full-color photos of well over 250 of our favorite snacksOver 280 pages of great information, tips, and insider infoCurrent prices and Disney Dining Plan snack credit statusDisney Food Blog reviews of all snacksSpecial Bonus items you’re going to love! (Of course…how could we not include these?!)Don’t forget — for easy access in the parks, put the guide on your smartphone or tablet! Get Yours At a Discounted Price for a Limited Time!To celebrate the grand launch and to thank you for your support of the blog, we’ll be offering the brand new Guide for $3 off its standard rate for a limited time! Order your copy now for only $11.95 (regularly $14.95). To secure the discount, use code SNACKS14 at the check-out. Or Bundle For Even More Savings!Headed to Disney World and want the whole scoop on snacks? Bundle four of our most popular Disney Dining Guides and SAVE! Pick up our DFB Guide and Snacks Bundle for over 40% off! This includes our critically acclaimed DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks, and DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks along with the brand new DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks. All editions have been updated for 2014! Check out how you can have the best Disney vacation ever…and pay even less! For more detailed information and sample pages from The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios Snacks, head over to http://dfbstore.com/dfb-guide-to-animal-kingdom-and-hollywood-studios-snacks/! Tote your goodies! On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix showcases a Chip ‘n Dale Tote Bag. Perfect for toting your snacks and groceries! Walt Disney World for Grown Ups dines at Epcot’s La Hacienda. Perfect place for desserts and fireworks! Mouse on the Mind bids farewell to Kouzzina at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. Designing Disney visits the Ratatouille attraction at Disneyland Paris. Disney Hipster Blog stops by Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe in the Magic Kingdom. Tampa Bay Times hangs out with Hanson while sipping their pale ale, Mmmhops. Try this brew at this year’s Epcot Food and Wine Festival! 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 5, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: June 8, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: May 25, 2014 View the full article
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This week, we captured an unusual sight in the sky above Magic Kingdom Park – a rare lunar eclipse called a “blood moon.†The moon added the perfect spooky atmosphere to our parks, especially Magic Kingdom Park, which is already decorated for Halloween. Photographers David Roark and Matt Stroshane were on hand to document the moon’s path over our parks. Check out Jennifer’s original story for more photos of the blood moon. And voting continued this week for your favorite Disneyland Resort memory from each decade of the past 60 years. Take a look above at the top Disneyland Resort memories we received from the 1990s and then go to Erin’s post to vote for your favorite. Voting will remain open until 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 15. Be sure to check back Thursday, Oct. 16, when we’ll share the top five memories from the 2000s to today. 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 How to Make the Most of Pirate Night on Your Disney Cruise – Learn how to embrace the pirate lifestyle with swashbuckling line dances, delicious pirate grub and more! Fans Show Their Spooky Disney Side Aboard the Disney Parks Blog Creepy Cruise Meet-Up – See some spooky photos from the deck of the Sailing Ship Columbia, with 200 Disney Parks Blog readers aboard. Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort Offers Shivery Tricks and Spooky Treats For Halloween Time – Get the details on some of the new seasonal offerings at Downtown Disney District, including “Frozenâ€-themed makeovers from Anna & Elsa’s Boutique. Wildlife Wednesday: Congratulations to Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Awarded Prestigious Conservation Award at AZA Conference! – Disney’s Animal Kingdom received Top Honors (1st place) as the 2014 Edward H. Bean Award recipient for our Taveta golden weaver sustainability program. Anna & Elsa’s Boutique Opens in Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort – Read more about this “cool” new shop in Downtown Disney District, offering an array of “Frozenâ€-inspired merchandise worth melting for. Today in Disney History: New Disneyland Sign Debuts, 1989 – Take a look at these past Disneyland landmarks and how the original Disneyland Sign was retired. Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Can you believe it? We are nearing the halfway point of the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival already! Welcome to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! So far, we’ve shown you delicious dishes — both brand new options and returning favorites — that are featured at the International Marketplaces located around World Showcase. But I’m thinking that leaves another question: What are some of the items that we would definitely cross off the list? Of course, in a perfect world, where there would be unlimited time, money, and stomach space, I know you’d gladly try everything on offer. But here in reality, those dollars (and Disney Dining Plan snack credits) must be spent wisely. So while we’ve told you several dishes and beverages that we don’t think you should miss at this year’s Festival, today, I thought we’d run down the list of items that we plan to cross off. Because, well, something’s gotta give. I’ll also give you some suggestions for what we’d get in place of these items. Ghirardelli Sundae at Fife & DrumIn the past, Fife & Drum Tavern in the America Pavilion has had Festival success with extra menu additions like the Frozen Red Stag Lemonade. (That one proved to be so popular, it was added to the menu permanently.) But while the Ice Cream Sundae with Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce on the menu this year is good, it’s not “skip another awesome menu item” good. The sundae is Vanilla Soft Serve with a few pumps of Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce. There are way more tempting options all over World Showcase. Ice Cream Sundae Made with Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce Instead, why not go for a frozen treat with international flair? Skip the soft serve, and go for some Kaki Gori at the permanent Japan stand, Kabuki Cafe. Guylian Seashell Truffles at the Desserts & Champagne MarketplaceSo, here’s where we make a bit of a confession. If there were one booth I’d outright skip at the Festival it would probably be Desserts & Champagne. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with it. It’s just that I find so many more compelling options circling World Showcase Lagoon. Case in point: one of the menu items here is Guylian Seashell Truffles. This is not a dish. This is something that the Cast Member takes out of the box and hands to me. Guylian Belgian Chocolate Seashell Truffles Sure, they’re only $1.75. But they can be bought at the grocery store…and when we are Food and Wine Festival-ing, we are definitely passing on this in lieu of more exotic fare. If you’re looking for a truly satisfying chocolate dish, head to the Ireland Marketplace and try the amazing Warm Chocolate Pudding with Kerrygold Irish Cream Liqueur Custard, which is more than worth the price difference. Dole Squish’Ems at Refreshment PortIf you want to stop at the Refreshment Port for a Croissant Doughnut, we are totally on board with that. But one featured Festival food we will not be making time or money for is the Dole Squish’Em. The prepackaged, applesauce-based snack may be a big hit with the preschool crowd. Dole Fruit Squish’Ems But unless you’re under 3 (or you really, really like flavored applesauce), we wouldn’t worry about checking this box off your passport. If you’re looking for a fruit fix, the Dole Whips served here for the Festival will give you that, plus a healthy dose of that Disney food-loving feeling. Dom Pérignon at the Desserts & Champagne MarketplaceAaaaaand we are back to Desserts & Champagne Marketplace. You won’t be surprised to find that they offer a selection of — you guessed it — Champagne, in addition to the sweets. Now, kudos to Disney. They’ve kept it real here by offering authentic French Champagne — the only sparkling wine that should technically be called by that moniker. But there’s a reason that Champagne is considered a luxury item: its price. A glass of bubbly will set you back here anywhere from $12 to $32. And at the upper price tier, that glass of Dom Pérignon just isn’t worth it to me. Do you know how much Griddled Greek Cheese I can get for $32?? 2014 Desserts & Champagne Marketplace Booth Menu, Featuring the $32 Glass of Dom Pérignon! I mean, we understand if you must. But if you’re simply looking for something in the bubbly and effervescent category, give the Nicolas Feuillatte Rosé a try for about a third of the price. Better yet, head to the Block & Hans Kiosk in the America Pavilion where they’re serving up a delicious, limited edition Blanc de Noir by Domaine Chandon. Chandon Blanc de Noir at Block & Hans And it will only set you back $6.25. Filetto di Pollo, con Funghi al Marsala at the Italy MarketplaceOn our recent dine around day, we knew we needed to pay attention to the Italy Marketplace, which featured some brand new savory bites. While we were sorry to see the Sausage and Peppers as well as the Cheese Ravioli with Beef Bolognese go, we were hopeful that the new dishes would be just as good or better. Not quite. While the latest Ravioli, a “Caprese” version featuring a vegetarian profile, is good, it’s not the must-have dish that the previous version was. And when it comes to the Filetto di Pollo, con Funghi al Marsala, well, we were downright disappointed. Good Chicken Marsala is awesome, but this just didn’t measure up. Filetto di Pollo, con Funghi al Marsala And the Italian Booth continues its odd aversion to salt. Really — we understand that you don’t want to make things too salty. But some salt — any! — would have helped the dish out immeasurably. Stick with the Cannoli al Cioccolato and the Italian Margarita here, and you’ll be happy. Selections from Craft BeersMy jury is still out on how I feel about the change to the Craft Beers Marketplace in 2014. Previously, Craft Beers occupied a large Marketplace at the entrance of World Showcase. This year, it’s been moved indoors to the Odyssey Center. Further, a selection of snacks have been added to the menu. Yay for air conditioning! But not so yay for it feeling out-of-the-way and not part of the Festival. The Craft Beer Snack Mix is pretty decent — after all, it’s complimentary with any Craft Beer selection. But the House-made Country Pâté with Pickled Carrots and Farmhouse Bread and the Muffuletta Pinwheels with House-Made Pickles didn’t make much of an impression on us (though the pickles are pretty cool). House-made Country Pâté Muffuletta Pinwheels Sure, this is kind of like a bar, and these are kind of like bar foods. We get that. But there are tastier ways to complement your Craft Beer throughout Epcot. If you must eat here (i.e. if you go another step without food, you’ll perish), go with the Spicy Pimento Cheese Dip. While I wasn’t thrilled that it was served with generic water crackers, it was actually pretty awesome. Dessert Trio at the Desserts & Champagne MarketplaceThe biggest reason why I’d skip Desserts & Champagne altogether? We aren’t even all that impressed with their desserts. This year’s options are particularly upscale in their presentation, with three different types of desserts represented — Passion Fruit Coconut Creamsicle, Blueberry Lime Cheesecake Roll, and Chocolate Espresso Opera Cake. Unlike other years, the desserts are not available individually. Here’s my problem. The desserts definitely have the feel of something mass-produced (my common complaint with Disney desserts in many spots). And while each name has a lot of words in the title, I just don’t feel like any of them are particularly special. Dessert Trio: Passion Fruit Coconut Creamsicle, Blueberry Lime Cheesecake Roll, and Chocolate Espresso Opera Cake I would rather indulge in something I’ve never had before, like the Cocadas, or Brazilian Coconut Candy, at the Brazil Marketplace. And for the same price, I could get two! Pavlova at the Australia MarketplaceOk, on this one, a teensy bit of subjectivity might enter into my recommendation. If you’ve been reading Disney Food Blog for any amount of time, you know that I’m not a fan of many desserts that involve egg white and sugar. Meringues are uniformly lost on me; it’s as though chefs have cleverly packaged sugar air and expect me to be excited about it. For that reason, I simply am not going to be a fan of the Pavlova served at the Australia Marketplace, since it’s little more than a baked meringue serving as a dessert cup. Pavlova If you feel the same way about pavlovas as I do, but would still like a treat involving berries and cream, check out the Berry Cream Puff at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe in the Norway Pavilion. Selections from Intermissions CafeOur thoughts about some of the food selections at Intermissions Cafe are somewhat similar. Located in Festival Center, this can be a spot for some interesting beverages, but the food selection, by and large, is a pass for us. We can think of much tastier fare than the Southwest Chicken Wrap. And while snacks like Grapes might be great for picky little ones, we don’t really feel like a stop is warranted otherwise. If you are looking for vegetarian or vegan options, however, Intermissions Cafe may interest you. Both the Fruit and Cheese Plate and the Vegan Trio are somewhat interesting. Fruit and Cheese Plate Vegan Trio (couscous, tabouleh, and hummus with pita) Our suggestion? If you’d like to include a stop at Intermissions Cafe in your passport, make it a drinks-only stop. The Caposaldo Sweet Sparkling Peach Moscato is fun, and if you like it, you can purchase a bottle at the neighboring Festival Wine Shop. And that’s a wrap! We could go down a road of personal preference and make more suggestions, but we realize that our “Skip It” may just be your “Gotta Have it”! And so, we leave you with this solid list, understanding that there will still likely be a difference of opinion. 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! It’s not to late to start planning 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. Now we really want to hear from you! What’s on your “Skip It” list? Join the conversation 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: 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth Updates: Craft Beer Moves Into Odyssey Center, and MoreTop Tips for the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth Preview: Greece and Puerto Rico View the full article
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It's one of theme parks' biggest challenges: finding ways to ease the pain of waiting in line. View the full article
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This week, some of the most unusual photos snapped at Walt Disney World Resort were taken by David Roark and Matt Stroshane at Magic Kingdom Park, where they were perfectly positioned to catch a Blood Moon move over our park. GalleryBlood Moon Sets Over Walt Disney World Resort view allBe sure to check out the full gallery above. And for full details on this rare event, click here. This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Snapping Rare Moon Photos at Walt Disney World Resort by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Walt Disney Parks and Resorts celebrates 50 years of the Disney Ambassador program, which was first introduced as part of the 10th anniversary celebration of Disneyland. Walt Disney needed someone to act as a representative of Disneyland to audiences in the community and around the world, as well as host VIP guests and foreign dignitaries. Julie Reihm Casaletto, a tour guide for the park at the time, was selected by Walt to be the first Disney Ambassador. A half-century later, in a ceremony in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland park, Julie joined more than 50 former Disney Ambassadors yesterday morning to welcome the 2015-2016 Disneyland Resort Ambassador team, Jessica Bernard and Allie Kawamoto. The 50-year tradition continued at Walt Disney World Resort yesterday, as Caitlin Busscher and Nathaniel Palma were announced as the 2015-2016 Disney Ambassador team, receiving the golden opportunity of sharing the magic of “our world†– and representing nearly 70,000 fellow Cast Members – with the Central Florida community. Rounding out the global anniversary celebration, Disney Ambassadors also were announced recently at other Disney Parks around the world. At Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, Sara Hui was selected as the next Ambassador to represent the Asia-based theme park, and Tokyo Disney Resort chose Riina Imaeda as the first ambassador to serve a two-year term in Japan. Sonia Demay and Romina Grochow were welcomed as new Ambassadors at Disneyland Paris earlier this month. The Disney Ambassador family will grow this year, as Shanghai Disney Resort, scheduled to open in 2015, and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, will for the first time name Disney Ambassadors. First Disney Ambassador Julie Reihm Casaletto Welcomes New Ambassadors by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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“America’s Funniest Home Videos,†the longest running prime time entertainment show in ABC history, celebrates its 25th anniversary season this year! To mark this occasion, the show is joining in the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration – our 60th anniversary celebration – with a special prize. Here’s Emmy-winning host Tom Bergeron with a hint for Disney Parks Blog readers! So don’t miss this celebratory season of “America’s Funniest Home Videos,†premiering this Sunday, Oct. 12, at 7|6c. ‘America’s Funniest Home Videos’ Celebrates 25th Anniversary by Joining the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Halloween memories are extra special in my family … as it’s the one time of year where I can get my boys to get in a photo without me begging them to pose! There’s something about getting dressed up in their costumes, especially if we are headed out to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to meet some of our favorite characters. This is one of my favorites, of my tough guy muscling up to meet our favorite Space Ranger and intergalactic superhero. At this year’s event, there’s an opportunity for party guests to purchase a new product that we’re currently testing – a one day Memory Maker. Now through October 31, a one day Memory Maker entitlement can be added to your Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ticket for only $39. All of your Disney PhotoPass photos taken on the day your event ticket is used, including character encounters and select dining and attraction photos are included — no matter how many you get or if they were taken earlier in the day before Mickey’s Not-So-scary Halloween Party! And don’t worry … if you aren’t able to make it to this year’s party, no trick, we’ve got a special TREAT for you! Simply log into your My Disney Experience account and claim PhotoPass ID COMEJOINTHEPARTY to receive a unique Bonus shot of some of our favorite ghosts! HINT: “We’ve got 999 happy haunts here, but there’s room for a thousand ..!†So don’t delay … visit any ticket booth at the Transportation and Ticket Center for more information and to add the one day Memory Maker entitlement to your Mickey’s Not-So- Scary Halloween Party event. (Don’t worry if you have already purchased your Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ticket – you can still add the one day Memory Maker test product the night of your event!) Capture All Your Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Memories with a One Day Memory Maker by Kelly Glassburn: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Back in August, we shared that Walt Disney Parks and Resorts was sponsoring the KaBOOM! Play Together Tour. The tour traveled to six cities across America, giving families the chance to tackle a playful obstacle course and enjoy meaningful time together. Nearly 13,000 people came out to play in DisneyDiscoverTogether.com. The KaBOOM Play Together Tour helped us to bring this work to life around the U.S. Check out the video above for highlights from the tour. Kids and Families come out to Play at the KaBOOM! Play Together Tour by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Ah. We knew the day would come…the day that we started craving some of those wonderful dishes that we’ve had a chance to enjoy at the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. Welcome to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! And we figure if it’s happening to us, it’s probably happening for you, too. While we’ve enjoyed some truly delicious flavors at this year’s festival, we had our favorites from the very beginning! And one of the sweets we don’t think you should miss is the Fresh Baked Carrot Cake with Craisins® and Cream Cheese Icing. Served at the Hops & Barley Marketplace Booth, this is one of the best entries into the Disney Carrot Cake Arena we’ve ever sampled! Fresh Baked Carrot Cake with Craisins® and Cream Cheese Icing from the Hops & Barley Marketplace Booth Warm and moist, the cake itself is chock-full of goodies. Dried cranberries give the mix an unexpected tang. And the Icing. You know that amazing Warm Cream Cheese Icing you sometimes find on cinnamon rolls? Yeah. That. Fresh Baked Carrot Cake with Craisins® and Cream Cheese Icing — Cross Section Given our love around here for Carrot Cake, we were on the fence about whether this one would be mention-worthy or a total snoozefest. I’m happy to say, it’s amazing. So here’s the recipe to make those Carrot Cake fantasies a reality. Warm Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese IcingHops & Barley Marketplace Booth Yield: 12 Mini Cakes Ingredients: Carrot Cake: 1 cup dried cranberries 1 cup orange juice 2 cups sugar 1 1/3 cups vegetable oil 3 large eggs, at room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, divided 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt 1 cup chopped walnuts 2 cups grated carrots 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple Cream Cheese Icing: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 1 1/2 to 2 cups confectioners’ sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 to 3 tablespoons milk Instructions: For Carrot Cake: 1. Soak dried cranberries in orange juice overnight. 2. Preheat oven to 325° F. Butter and flour 12 (1/2 cup) oven-safe ramekins. 3. Combine sugar, oil, and eggs in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; beat until light yellow. Stir in vanilla. 4. Sift together 2 1/2 cups flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. 5. Add flour mixture to sugar-egg mixture, mixing until just combined. 6. Drain dried cranberries (discard any remaining orange juice). Toss cranberries and walnuts with 1 tablespoon flour. Add carrots and pineapple, tossing to combine. Fold mixture into batter. 7. Ladle batter into prepared ramekins. Bake 35 to 40 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into cakes comes out clean. For Cream Cheese Icing: 1. Beat cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth. Beat in 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar and vanilla. 2. Add more confectioners’ sugar and milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until consistency is spreadable. 3. While cakes are still warm, turn out of ramekins and spread with icing. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? The individual cakes would make a delicious and comforting dessert for your Autumn dinner party…or even a glorious weekend breakfast treat! 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 Warm Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing after reading the recipe? Leave us your thoughts 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: Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Warm Chocolate Lava Cake with Baileys Ganache from IrelandEpcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Mac n’ Cheese Bundles from Chef Carla HallSnack Series: Blueberry Cupcake with Lemon Cream Cheese Icing at Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article
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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is one of the most anticipated events of the year here at the Disney Parks. It’s a guest favorite and loads of fun. But are you aware of all the eco-friendly efforts that go on behind the scenes? Lawrence Whiteside of Magic Kingdom Environmental/Recycling recently shared with the Disney Parks Blog what goes into this green endeavor and why they do it. “For the last 13 years, the MK Recycle Team and its partners have committed to support our corporate goals and standards. I hope our actions provide a deeper knowledge and understanding of our environmental efforts, and to also inspire others to take action and make even more of a difference.†Conservation at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is serious business. For instance, some of the initiatives during last year’s party included recycling 25,000 cardboard boxes and 500 pounds of shrink wrap, salvaging Craisin boxes to store over 3,000 pounds of scrap electronics and repurposing “Monsters University†cardboard boxes to help out with the Toys for Tots drive. The due diligence of the MK Recycle Team during this event just keeps getting greener, according to Lawrence. “Our environmental successes and stories are a rich part of our history and a key focus of our growth. We not only recycle on stage but, through a collaborative effort, recycling happens backstage to reduce waste and our carbon footprint.†The Walt Disney Company has a longstanding tradition of corporate citizenship. From providing children’s environmental education programs to pledges to reduce energy and waste consumption on property, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party’s goals fall right in line with this environmental stewardship. So, while you’re enjoying Mickey’s “Boo-To-You†Halloween Parade, your favorite spooktacular Disney characters, the Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular and all the rest of the festivities, maybe you can take a moment to consider the concentrated effort put forth to giving back to Mother Earth. Though he was speaking specifically of the U.S.A., Walt Disney’s words of wisdom could easily be applied to the big picture: “Its preservation and the wise conservation of its renewable resources concerns every man, woman and child whose possession it is.†Lawrence echoes those sentiments. “Personally, I think everybody needs to play a role in preserving our planet,†Making a Greener Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park by Russ J. Stacey: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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‘Tis the season – for pumpkin, that is. The ubiquitous gourd takes center stage at Disneyland Resort this time of year, flavoring everything from coffee to soups, and yes, even old-school pumpkin pie. Disneyland Resort Bakery gets in on the fun with pumpkin beignets, pumpkins twists, pumpkin muffins and pumpkin cream cheese muffins sold throughout the parks and hotels. We got hooked on this pumpkin cheesecake that you’ll find at Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta at Disney California Adventure park, Jolly Holiday Bakery Café and French Market in Disneyland park and White Water Snacks at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. The graham cracker crust with a pinch of ginger, classic cheesecake filling and a drizzle of chocolate on top create a trifecta of yum. Beyond the bakery, there’s pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks, and Boudin Bakery’s pumpkin-shaped sourdough at Pacific Wharf Café, the Pacific Wharf bread cart and Mortimer’s Market, all at Disney California Adventure park. And if you’re in search of that good ol’ pumpkin pie, you’ll find it at Plaza Inn, Carnation Cafe, Village Haus Restaurant, River Belle Terrace and French Market Restaurant in Disneyland park, and at Flo’s V-8 Café and Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta at Disney California Adventure park. Pumpkin Cheesecake Makes 9-inch cheesecake Crust 1 1/2 cups crushed graham cracker3 tablespoons granulated sugar1/2 teaspoons ground ginger1/3 cup butter-meltedCheesecake Filling 3 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened1 cup brown sugar1 cup granulated sugar2 eggs15-ounce can pumpkin purée2 tablespoons cornstarch1 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon nutmeg5-ounce can evaporated milkChocolate syrup, for drizzlingFor crust: In a bowl combine the crushed graham cracker, sugar and ginger. Melt the butter and stir into mixture.Spray bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Press crust mixture into bottom of pan using your hands.Place pan on a large piece of foil and wrap foil tightly up sides and around pan.For cheesecake filling: Preheat oven to 325°F.Beat cream cheese, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Scrape down sides of bowl.Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down sides of bowl.Whisk together pumpkin purée, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl until well combined. Add pumpkin mixture to cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined. Scrape down sides of bowl. Add evaporated milk, mixing well.Slowly pour cheesecake filling onto crust mixture in prepared pan. Drizzle with chocolate syrup.Place foil-wrapped pan inside a larger roasting pan. Place oven rack and carefully add enough hot water to reach halfway up sides of springform pan.Bake 1 hour, or until center moves only slightly when shaken.Turn oven off. Crack open oven door, and allow cheesecake to cool inside oven 1 hour.Remove pan from water bath and set on a wire rack to cool completely. Cover top of pan with foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours and up to overnight.Cook’s Notes: Wrapping foil around springform pan prevents water from the water bath from getting into the cheesecake. The slow cooling inside the oven prevents cheesecake top from cracking. Pumpkin Mania at Disneyland Resort by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa was honored as one of the Top 5 restaurants in the United States in TripAdvisor’s 2014 Travelers’ Choice awards. The Walt Disney World Resort restaurant is the only Florida restaurant on the illustrious list. “One-of-a-kind dining experience in Orlando – worth it!†and “A special meal in a special place,†reads the TripAdvisor website. Victoria & Albert’s also is a AAA Five-Diamond Award winner, one of just two in Florida. Under the helm of Chef Scott Hunnel, maître d hotel Israel Perez and Pastry Chef Erich Herbitschek, the restaurant features some of the very best seasonal ingredients from local markets, as well as from around the world. TripAdvisor branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, according to the website, reaching nearly 280 million unique monthly visitors and more than 170 million reviews and opinions covering more than 4 million accommodations, restaurants and attractions. The awards honor top travel spots worldwide based on millions of reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travelers. Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews for restaurants worldwide, gathered over a 12-month period. Congrats to Chef Scott, Israel, Chef Erich and the entire Victoria & Albert’s team! For more on Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, visit the posts below: Perfect Dish for Fall Weather from Chef Scott Hunnel at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa15 Years in a Row: AAA Five-Diamond Award for Victoria & Albert’sVictoria & Albert’s Does it Again: AAA Five-Diamond Award for 14th Consecutive Year2014 Travelers’ Choice: TripAdvisor Names Victoria & Albert’s One of Top 5 Restaurants in U.S. by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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This week’s look at the ghosts of The Haunted Mansion focuses on the Hatbox Ghost – aren’t familiar with him? That’s because he was originally planned as a part of the attraction but never, well, materialized. (Art by Austin Hillebrecht) According to Jason Surrell’s book “The Haunted Mansion: From The Magic Kingdom To The Movies,†this ghostly apparition was supposed to appear across from the Bride in the attic scene, holding a hatbox. With every beat of the Bride’s heart, the Hatbox Ghost’s head was supposed to disappear and reappear in the hatbox he was holding. Alas, the Hatbox ghost was eventually cut from the plan due to technical difficulties. Which Haunted Mansion ghost would you like to see featured here next week? Tell us in the comments section below! For more about the ghosts from The Haunted Mansion, visit the post below: 999 Happy Haunts: Meet Madame Leota999 Happy Haunts: Meet The Hatbox Ghost by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Even though Frozen Summer Fun has officially come to an end at Hollywood Studios, that doesn’t mean the fun has ended altogether! A few elements of the special event that ran throughout the summer remain, including For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, and a new home for Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post and Frozen Snowground. Sign to Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post Since there is Frozen food to be had there, we couldn’t resist stopping by its new spot across the street from Studio Catering Co. Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post Entrance into the Snowground Food isn’t the only thing you’ll find at Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post. It still remains THE place to build your own snowman in Central Florida. “Do You Wanna Build a Snowman?” Snowman! And there may be… oh, a little bit of Frozen merchandise available for purchase . Frozen Merchandise Young Elsa and Anna dolls Olaf plush But we’re here to check out the Sweet Treat Bar, tucked in the corner next to the Snowground. It maintains the same cozy, lodge feel that it did over the summer. They even brought out the snowflake decorated trash cans in honor of the wintry occasion. Sweet Treat Bar And the menu, for the most part, remains the same as well — with a few exceptions. If you missed your chance to pick up an Anna, Elsa, or Olaf cupcake, the Sweet Treat Bar is where you can still find them. Sweet Treat Bar menu We loved the Olaf Carrot Cake Cupcake with Cream Cheese Icing when it made it’s debut “in SUMMEEEEERRRRRR!!!!!†(That’s for you Olaf fans out there!) Olaf Carrot Cake Cupcake In addition to Anna and Elsa cookies, you can find some Disney staples like Mickey Pretzels and Churros. And even though it’s not as cold in the new location as it needed to be for the skating rink, it’s cool enough that the thought of Hot Cocoa still holds appeal. Sweet Treat Bar menu There are plenty of Olaf Souvenir cups to go around, which — in this location — are filled with Blue Raspberry Slush. Olaf souvenir cups Slush machines I thought I should try one of the cold adult beverages that I hadn’t had a chance to grab over the summer — and one that couldn’t be found previously in Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post. The Summer Berry Margarita has made the transition to the Winter Berry Margarita: a mix of 1800 Tequila, Triple Sec, Monin Wildberry, Sweet-and-Sour, and Cranberry Juice, all served up with a souvenir glow cube. Winter Berry Margarita and Blue Snow Dream This drink is definitely eye-catching in the dark areas of the Trading Post or in the outdoor light, and if you carry it around the park, be prepared to answer where you found it! Winter Berry Margarita Winter Berry Margarita One thing not mentioned on the menu is the topping on this concoction. Though it looks like whipped cream in the picture, it’s actually Lemon-Lime Fomz. If you’re not familiar with the light, airy substance that is Fomz, you can read a little more about it here. Lemon Lime Fomz The Winter Berry Margarita packed more than I anticipated from a flavor perspective. Right away, I detected the Sweet-and-Sour above almost every other ingredient, though I did pick up on the tequila as well. If you like a bit of a sour bite, this could be a hit with you. I found it to be much more tart than sweet, even though there was plenty of sugar from the juice and Fomz. The flavor was intense from the first sip to the last. If you haven’t had your fill of Frozen (or Fomz, for that matter), now you know where to find the treats and — in the spirit of Olaf — keep the summer/winter fun going no matter what time of year it is! Will you visit Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post on your next trip to Hollywood Studios? 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: Friday Happy Hour: Downtown Disney Margarita BarFriday Happy Hour: Moroccorita in Epcot’s MoroccoFriday Happy Hour: New Margaritas at La Cava del Tequila in Epcot View the full article
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Magic Never Stops at Walt Disney World | Play, Stay & Save | Canada Play, Stay, Dine and Save up to US$600 on a 5-night/6-day Walt Disney World room, ticket and dining plan package for a family of four at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels: http://di.sn/gus...From:Disney ParksViews:60ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events View the full article
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La magie ne prend jamais fin | Offre spéciale pour le Canada Jouez, séjournez, mangez et économisez jusqu'à 600 $US sur un forfait de 5 nuits/6 jours de la Walt Disney Travel Co. comprenant les billets, la formule repas et l'hébergement pour une...From:Disney ParksViews:20ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events View the full article
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How fun is this post-“Illuminations†shot of World Showcase Lagoon from the Italy pavilion? Photographer Tom Bricker snapped it just as the show was ending. Anyone up for a late-night gondola ride? GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allDisney Parks After Dark: Gondolas at the Italy Pavilion by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article
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Actress Jan Hooks, best known for portraying first ladies Hillary Clinton, Betty Ford and Nancy Reagan on "Saturday Night Live" in the 1980s, died in New York, the office of her agent Lisa Lieberman said on Thursday. She was 57. View the full article
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Competition among cable, satellite and other TV providers in Central Florida has become so intense that consumers are being offered more options — and often at lower prices. View the full article