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A security contractor with a gun and three prior convictions for assault and battery was allowed on an elevator with President Barack Obama during a Sept. 16 trip to Atlanta, violating Secret Service protocols, according to three people familiar with the incident. View the full article

Fall Weather Dish from Chef Scott Hunnel at Victoria & Albert’s | Walt Disney World Resort Watch as Chef Hunnel from Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa kindly shares this pan-seared sablefish that you can make at home! For the complete recipe, visit...From:Disney ParksViews:30ratingsTime:02:37More inTravel & Events View the full article

Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the crème de la crème of Disney restaurants – the only AAA Five-Diamond restaurant in Central Florida, and home to Chef Scott Hunnel, a James Beard Award-nominated pro who runs the small kitchen with his finely tuned team. With only 53 coveted seats in the dining room, plus the opulent (and even smaller) Queen Victoria’s Room and private Chef’s Table in the kitchen, we can’t all get a reservation, but Chef Hunnel kindly shares this pan-seared sablefish that you can make at home. It’s the sort of dish that tastes simple but takes some care to prepare. At Victoria & Albert’s, this dish is served with beautifully sculpted baby vegetables and garnished with delicate fried carrot curls. Sablefish is also known as black cod and butterfish. If you can’t find sablefish, a good substitution is Chilean sea bass. And if you can’t find Zellwood sweet corn, any fresh corn will work. Pan-Seared Sablefish with Fingerling Potatoes and Zellwood Corn Serves 4 Corn Relish 2 ears Zellwood sweet cornOlive oil, for roasting corn and sautéing vegetables1/2 sweet red pepper1/2 red onion, diced small1 teaspoon toasted cuminCoarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, to taste1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oilZellwood Corn Sauce 2 tablespoons olive oil1/2 onion, diced1/2 leek, white part only, diced1 stalk celery1 teaspoon minced garlic8 ears Zellwood corn, kernels removed1 cup white wine1 quart corn stock or chicken stock1 bouquet garni (thyme, parsley, bay leaves, and peppercorns tied together with string) 1 cup heavy creamCoarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, to taste6 tablespoons butterFingerling Potatoes 1 pound fingerling potatoesOlive oil, for sautéingCoarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, to taste1 tablespoon minced fresh chivesSablefish 1/2 cup olive oil4 (5-ounce) portions sablefish Fresh white pepper, Maldon sea salt, to tasteFor corn relish: Husk corn and lightly brush with olive oil. Heat a saute pan or grill over medium-high heat.Place corn in pan and rotate every few minutes using tongs. Baste with a little olive oil, as needed. Cook 7 to 10 minutes, or until corn is charred and tender. (If charring too fast, lower heat slightly.) Cool and slice kernels from the cob. Set aside. Preheat oven to 425°F. Halve pepper lengthwise; remove stems, seeds, and membranes. Place cut side down on foil-lined baking sheet. Roast 20 to 25 minutes, or until skins are blistered. Carefully bring foil up and around the pepper halves to enclose. Let stand 15 minutes, or until cool enough to handle. Loosen edges of skins from pepper halves with a sharp knife. Slowly pull off skin and discard. Dice one-half into 1/2-inch pieces. Set aside.Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a small saute pan. Saute corn, pepper, and onion until soft. Stir in cumin and season to taste. Remove from heat and toss with extra virgin olive oil. Set aside until ready to serve.For Zellwood corn sauce: Heat saute pan over medium heat. Saute onion, leeks, and celery for 1 minute.Add garlic and corn, and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in white wine, scraping bits from bottom of pan. Add stock and bouquet garni; reduce heat and simmer 35 to 40 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and season to taste.Remove from heat, purée with immersion blender, and strain through a chinois or china cap. Stir in butter. Keep warm until ready to serve. For fingerling potatoes: Wash and quarter fingerling potatoes. Place in saucepan and cover with water over high heat. Cook 4 to 5 minutes, or until tender, depending on size of potatoes. Remove from heat and cool under running water. Heat olive oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add potatoes and cook until golden and crispy, turn and cooking about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with chives. Keep warm until ready to serve. For sablefish: Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat olive oil in sauté pan over high heat.Season sablefish with salt and pepper. Place skin side down in pan and sauté for 1 minute or until golden brown. Turn and sauté for 1 minute. Roast in oven for about 2 minutes, or until desired doneness. To serve: Place roasted fingerling potatoes in center of plate and top with fish.Drizzle Zellwood corn sauce around fish and potatoes; top fish with corn relish. Perfect Dish for Fall Weather from Chef Scott Hunnel at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Olympia High School student who was found dead nearly a week after she disappeared from her Ocoee-area home would have turned 17 years old today. View the full article

It’s been just over a year now since the Gardens Kiosk opened in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Learn About: Gardens KioskAnimal Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsThis kiosk (found not too far from Flame Tree Barbecue) is unique in that its focus is on providing snack options for guests with special dietary needs or restrictions. You might know it by its unofficial name: the “Allergy Kiosk,” earned not only for having treats that are free of the most common food allergens, but also because guests can receive information from the friendly and knowledgeable Cast Members about dining all over Animal Kingdom in light of restrictions. (Oh, and also because of the “Allergy Dining Tips” sign above the menu ). Along with various pre-packaged food items, this is the main location at Disney World where you can find Babycakes items since the Babycakes store in Downtown Disney closed in order to accommodate construction for Disney Springs. I grabbed two Babycakes treats, though you’ll just see them labeled as Gluten-Free Vegan Doughnuts and Gluten-Free Cupcakes on the menu. Gardens Kiosk Menu The Gluten-Free Cupcakes come in packages of four minis, and they are not unique to Animal Kingdom. You can still find these in several Resort Quick Service locations, including (but not limited to) Art of Animation’s Landscape of Flavors and Beach Club’s Marketplace. Babycakes Brownie Cupcakes The full name of “Brownie Cupcakes” is what you’ll find on the underside of the package. Brownie Cupcakes info on package And ultimately, as you can tell, the texture and chocolate flavor (along with the mini chocolate chips) much more closely resemble brownies than cake. Brownie Cupcake So, that may come as a small surprise to some who see only the item name on the menu. The other surprise is the nice, subtle hint of mint that compliments the chocolate in the brownie. For the Gluten-Free Vegan Donuts, choices are chocolate-covered and – the one I went with — cinnamon sugar. Cinnamon Sugar Donut Cinnamon Sugar Donut package info This donut was pleasantly flavorful with a great coating of cinnamon sugar that also offered a nice bit of crunch. I was most curious about the texture, since I wasn’t sure how being gluten-free would affect it. Cinnamon Sugar donut texture As it turns out, not much at all . I found it to be a little denser than your typical cake-style doughnut, and that’s the only difference I could note. But the best indicator might not come from me… My husband is the beneficiary of much of what I can’t finish in the parks. When he tried the doughnut, he didn’t know it was gluten-free, and was really surprised when I told him. He just thought it was a great cake doughnut. I made a return trip a few days later to give their cold treat a try: “Tofutti” Dairy-Free Ice Cream. When I placed my order, I was expecting one of those mini ice cream cups. You know, like the old school kind that come in packs of ten or so, with a little wooden spoon attached to the peel-off lid? When the Cast Member placed it in front of me, I just said, “Whoa… it’s a whole PINT?” Good thing I had a friend with me! Pint (!) of Tofutti Honestly, this really doesn’t seem realistic for a family visiting the park unless they’re all ready to share the pint right then and there. This obviously isn’t a treat that you’re going to stash away in your bag and carry with you throughout the day; I imagine a lot of partially-eaten Tofutti containers get tossed regularly. That said, at $4.29 a pint, it’s probably not too far off the cost of an ice cream sundae elsewhere in the parks. So if you DO have a couple of kiddos or family members who are able to share, it’s an option. Nutritional info on Tofutti carton Tofutti is its own brand and by no means unique to Disney World, but for those who haven’t tried it (I hadn’t prior to this trip), it’s pretty much what you’d hope it would be: a cool, creamy way to scratch a chocolate itch. From a consistency standpoint, I thought it was just about on par with regular ice cream made with milk. Tofutti chocolate ice cream I must admit that ever since the Gardens Kiosk opened, I’ve been hoping to see other locations like this open in the other parks. But so far, it remains an anomaly. Still, Disney World continues to make efforts towards providing options and ease for guests with special dietary needs (like those test menus in Hollywood Studios), and we’ll look forward to seeing how these efforts continue to expand in the future. Looking for the biggest bang for your snack buck while you’re in Animal Kingdom?Check out the newly updated for 2014/15 DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks e-Book for the low-down on all the treats and snack eats in these two parks! The hot off the presses Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios guide to everything snacks is full of over 250 reviews and color photos to make sure you make the best use of your dollars in Disney world. Get yours today! Or, opt to get our specially-priced bundle of snack guides for all four parks, along with the 2013 DFB Guide to WDW Dining. Have you made a stop at the Gardens Kiosk? Please let us know about your experience with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! New Menu at “Allergy” Kiosk in Disney’s Animal Kingdom (And You Can Still Get Babycakes!)Review! New Vegetarian Fare and Allergy Kiosk at Disney’s Animal KingdomNews! Disney’s Animal Kingdom to Debut Kiosk for Guests with Special Dietary Needs View the full article

As you crawl along Interstate 4 on your way to or from work today, you may notice some people wearing bright vests and digging holes by the side of the road. View the full article

Deanna Price donned a red shirt Monday night signifying solidarity with more than 100 other concerned parents and teachers who were geared up to vent a laundry list of frustrations to Lake County School Board members. View the full article

The Mills 50 business district was awarded two of the city’s Orlando Main Street district awards on Tuesday evening, for its Dragon Parade Lunar Festival and its dumpster art project. Following is the list of the 2014 awards: View the full article

One man had a heart attack walking from his camp. A woman bled to death from cirrhosis. Two people died of cancer. And a 31-year-old man with schizophrenia was found drowned in a downtown Orlando lake — the result of an apparent suicide. View the full article

If your little ones love water, the Menehune Bridge will be a favorite destination at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. This 2,200 square foot interactive water play zone designed for keiki under 48 inches features two junior-sized water slides, spinning gourds and a climbing wall! As with most water activities in the resort’s Waikolohe Valley, it is free to guests. During a visit to Aulani, Cultural Advisor Kahulu De Santos shared with me the Menehune legend that provides the inspiration for this aquatic play structure. I’m excited to pass the story along as part of our “Unforgettable Details of Aulani” series. According to Hawaiian legend, a boy named Laka went searching for his chief-father after his mysterious disappearance. His grandmother told him to “go to the mountains and look for the tree that has leaves shaped like the Hilo moon – such is the tree for a canoe.” He took his grandmother’s advice and found and fell the tree just before sunset. When he woke the next day to work on his new canoe, the tree he cut down was mysteriously gone! This trickery happened to Laka several times, until he decided to dig a small trench and hide alongside the tree trunk. While hiding, he found the culprits taking his trees – a pair of Menehune! Once caught, they pleaded forgiveness for their mischievous actions and promised to build Laka a canoe. That evening, a multitude of Menehune carried the canoe down the mountain to Laka’s beachside home. Upon their arrival, a marvelous feast ensued and the mischievous Menehune were forgiven. Menehune Bridge celebrates the legend of Laka’s canoe but also encourages aquatic mayhem – inspired by the Menehune, of course. If you want to get a fun view of Laka’s canoe, stand beneath it as it fills with water. Be patient – you’ll be in for a surprise! What are your keiki looking forward to most during your vacation to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa? Tell us in the comments below! For more from the “Unforgettable Details of Aulani” series, visit the posts below: Unforgettable Details of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa: Menehune Adventure TrailUnforgettable Details of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa: Beginning a Journey at Laniwai SpaUnforgettable Details of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa: Imagineer Joe Rohde on Design and InspirationUnforgettable Details of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa: Menehune Bridge by Tyler Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

TV viewers in Florida this week are seeing the first attack in an ad war over medical marijuana, as polls point to a close contest on a constitutional amendment to legalize the illicit weed. View the full article

Halloween is on its way to Disneyland Park (Paris), with the return of the park’s Disney’s Halloween Festival on October 1. During the event, which runs through November 2, guests can watch The Maleficent Disney Villains Promenade or Mickey’s Halloween Celebration (which features Disney characters dressed in Halloween costumes), visit their favorite villains in Maleficent’s Court, or take photos in one of the park’s many seasonally decorated photo locations. Here’s a sneak peek at the fun. Halloween Celebration Begins at Disneyland Park Paris October 1 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Halloween has arrived at Disneyland Paris, with the return of the park's Disney's Halloween Festival. This event runs Oct 1 through Nov 2, where guests can watch The Maleficent Disney Villains...From:Disney ParksViews:3707126ratingsTime:01:26More inTravel & Events

We know how much you love the Disney Cruise Line exclusive tilt-shift videos. You can see a “miniature scale” of the fun you can have during your Disney Cruise. http://di.sn/sni Our first...From:Disney ParksViews:203982ratingsTime:02:05More inTravel & Events

We know how much you love to see our exclusive tilt-shift videos, a “miniature scale” of the fun you can have at our parks and on our cruises. Our first tilt-shift video gave you a glimpse at a journey on the Disney Wonder, and to this day, it is one of our most popular videos. Now, we want to show you some of what you’ll experience over four nights on the Disney Dream sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida to the Bahamas. From Broadway-style stage shows and meet and greets with Disney friends, to fun in the sun at Castaway Cay and a relaxing day at sea, every member of your family will find something just for them. Check it out … the magic of tilt-shift photography combined with the magic of a Disney cruise! Tilt-Shift Video: Four Nights on a Disney Cruise by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We hear it all the time, “It’s all about the bling!” Well today, Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend runners who registered for the Disney Cruise Line Castaway Cay Challenge will not be disappointed as we reveal the treasure waiting for them at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. The inaugural Castaway Cay Challenge takes place in January 2015. Hundreds of runners are combining the excitement of participating in a marathon weekend event with a four-night cruise aboard the Disney Dream. After running their event at Walt Disney World Resort, challenge participants set sail on a four-night cruise and run the Castaway Cay 5K to earn the inaugural Castaway Cay Challenge finisher medal. They will also enjoy exclusive runDisney activities throughout the cruise, including featured menu items, guest speaker session and special merchandise. Now some of you might be wondering how can I get one of these amazing medals? If you are registered for the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon you still have the opportunity to claim your treasure. Registered runners can book the four-night cruise aboard the Disney Dream departing Feb. 23 from Port Canaveral, and participate in the Castaway Cay Challenge. It’s the perfect way to extend your family trip or your ultimate girls weekend and keep the celebration going for four more nights. In addition to the Castaway Cay 5K and the Castaway Cay Challenge finisher medal, runners can purchase a trip to Senses Spa for a post-race massage, a steam bath or sauna in the Rainforest room. Continue to relax by the fresh water pools, jetted hot tubs or take an exciting ride on The AquaDuck, a thrilling transparent tube water coaster that actually goes off the side of the ship. End your days with the girls enjoying a Broadway-style show, or dancing and celebrating the night away in one of several nightclubs. For more information and to register for the Disney Princess Weekend Castaway Cay Challenge, visit runDisney.com. Set Sail for the New Castaway Cay Challenge Finisher Medal by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Say hello to Sheila Hart, whose voice reminds you to remember to tap-off and to watch your step. View the full article

John Morgan, Mickey Mouse, Chris P. Bacon and Sam Pak, the Appliance Direct Guy....these are just some of the best Central Florida celebrities. View the full article

Fall is here – the season for California apples – and elegant Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure park is taking advantage of the bounty with this beautiful Harvest Apple Salad, which also includes the richness of duck confit to match the tart, sweet apples. Confit (pronounced con-fee) may sound daunting, but it’s basically a French term for slowly roasting the duck while it’s submerged in liquid – in this recipe it’s duck fat and olive oil. This is one of those recipes that takes time, but the reward is a rich, bright salad that’s perfect for a dinner party. In case you can’t get to the beautiful Carthay Circle Restaurant, inside the detailed re-creation of the iconic Carthay Circle Theatre at Disney California Adventure park, Chef Francisco Origel shows us how it’s done. This seasonal recipe is just one of the many California-inspired dishes on the menu. Harvest Apple Salad with Crispy Duck Confit Serves 8 Duck Confit 4 skin-on, bone-in duck legsCoarse salt freshly ground black pepper2 sprigs fresh thyme, 3 dried bay leavesOlive oil for covering duck in roasting panCider Vinaigrette 1/3 cup fresh apple cider1/2 cup apple cider vinegar1/4 cup honey mustard or Dijon mustard1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thymeCoarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, to tasteSalad 4 gala apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 6 wedges per apple4 tablespoons melted butter1/4 cup brown sugar4 granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4-inch-wide sticks6 cups thinly sliced kale6 cups thinly sliced frisée lettuce10 breakfast radishes, thinly slicedFor duck confit: Generously salt and pepper duck legs and set aside at room temperature for 1 hour. Prick skin of duck legs all over with a needle or a small, sharp knife, being careful not to pierce the meat. Preheat oven to 300°F.Heat skillet over medium-high heat and sear duck legs until golden on both sides. Place in a baking dish just large enough to fit all 6 legs and cover with rendered duck fat from skillet. Add thyme, bay leaves, and enough olive oil to submerge duck.Place in oven, uncovered, and bake 2 hours. Remove from oven and allow to cool in fat to room temperature.Remove duck legs from fat; remove meat from bones, discarding bones; pull meat into shreds.Place shredded meat in a medium skillet over medium-high heat; cook just until duck is crispy. Set aside.For vinaigrette: Place apple cider and vinegar in a small saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil and reduce by half, about 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.Combine reduced apple cider-vinegar and mustard in blender; blend until combined. With blender on medium speed, slowly stream in olive oil.Removed from blender and place in bowl; stir in thyme and parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper.For salad: Smear cold butter in bottom of large skillet. Sprinkle with brown sugar. Add apples slices and turn on heat to medium-high. As butter begins to melt and sugar caramelizes, turn apples to brown both sides. Add more butter if necessary; cook apples until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes, turning often. Remove from heat and set aside.Combine kale, frisée, radishes, and gala apple sticks in a large bowl, tossing to combine. Add shredded duck.Add just enough dressing to coat, tossing to combine. Serve immediately with caramelized apple slices.Delicious and Seasonal: Harvest Apple Salad from Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure Park by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Harvest Apple Salad | Carthay Circle Restaurant | Disneyland Resort Fall is the season for California apples - and elegant Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure park in Disneyland Resort is taking advantage with this beautiful Harvest Apple...From:Disney ParksViews:49410ratingsTime:01:30More inTravel & Events View the full article

We’re back today with another delicious look at the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Welcome to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! It’s always exciting to see what new Marketplaces and other experiences pop up each year at the Festival, but I’m always eager to indulge in my tried and true favorites as well! Today, let’s take a peek at some always-busy booths — France and Mexico — to take a closer look at both classics and brand new flavors. The France Marketplace BoothWhen you visit the France Marketplace, you’re participating in Food and Wine Festival Heritage! That’s right — it’s one of the original spots from the very first event, which was held in 1996. And though the menu has changed a bit from year to year, it’s always a favorite stop for guests. France Marketplace Booth You’ll notice that the France booth has a very robust menu. With three different savory items, plus dessert, you could easily make a meal out of the offerings here. Add to that wines and cocktails, and you would definitely want to visit the Marketplace more than once to try everything. 2014 France Menu The big news at the France booth this year was a change to the classic Escargot offering. In the past, guests have enjoyed Escargots en Persillade in the perfect stroll-and-eat version; the escargots were nestled in rounds of Brioche. But in 2014, escargot became an ingredient in a savory tart. The Tartelette aux Escargots combined the Snails with Spinach, Garlic, Bacon, and Parmesan, presented in a deep, rectangular savory tart. Tartelette aux Escargots This one has probably been one of the biggest controversies of the festival this year! We’ve heard from guests who love it, and from guests who hate it. Me? While I’m not a huge fan of spinach or snails on their own, the combo of flavors is an absolute win here. But really, is there a way to go wrong when Bacon and Garlic are involved?? Cross section of Tartlette aux Escargots Also joining the line up this year is Gratin de Crozets de Savoie. The savory combination of Gruyere and Mushrooms makes this rich vegetarian dish a hit. Gratin de Crozets de Savoie The pasta used in the dish, Crozet, comes to us from Savoie. It’s a uniquely French version of pasta, customarily a whole wheat variety. Gratin de Crozets de Savoie — Inside Also on the menu is another popular option from years past: Boeuf Bourguignon is back for an encore in 2014. I absolutely love this dish. But I’m a meat, potatoes, and gravy kind of girl. Boeuf Bourguignon France is also updating things a bit in the dessert department, as the Milk Chocolate Crème Brûlée of past years makes way for a hot flavor trend: Crème Brûlée Caramel Fleur de Sel. Crème Brûlée Caramel Fleur de Sel This is another winner in my book. I’m a big fan of salted caramel, and thought this version of the dish had more flavor and appeal than the milk chocolate from past years. Crème Brûlée Caramel Fleur de Sel For those of us who are over 21, there’s also a fun new Grown Up Slush to enjoy here! The La Passion Martini Slush replaces the Cosmo Slush from the last few years. The passion fruit flavor definitely stands out, and this is a good addition to the Lemon and Orange varieties available in France year round. La Passion Martini Slush If you’ve never strolled the Promenade with a plastic martini glass in your hand, it’s time to change that. The Mexico Marketplace BoothWalk clear around to the left entrance of World Showcase and you encounter our other featured booth, Mexico. This one has been around since the beginning of the Festival as well. Mexico Marketplace Booth The 2014 Mexico menu is fairly small when compared to the France menu. But it still offers some fan favorite tacos — one seafood and one meat. Dessert and a complementary array of beverages round out the offerings. 2014 Mexico Marketplace Booth Menu Once again, they’re offering a Shrimp Taco here, but they’ve changed up the garnishes a bit. The crispy fried Shrimp are topped with Pickled Habanero Pepper and Onions this go around. The creamy Sauce and fresh Salsa temper the heat just a bit. This is one of our 2014 Best of the Fest Picks! Shrimp Taco: Fried Shrimp, Pickled Habanero Pepper and Onions The Rib-Eye Taco with Roasted Chipotle Sauce and Grilled Scallions is offered in a Corn Tortilla, which offers a contrast of flavors and textures — and also makes this a gluten-free option. This has always been one of our favorite dishes at the festival, so it’s nice to see it back in action. Rib-Eye Taco with Roasted Chipotle Sauce and Grilled Scallions The Sweet Corn Cheesecake is…interesting. After experiencing the Sweet Corn Ice Cream at La Hacienda de San Angel, I wasn’t sure what to expect. This one is mildly sweet, pleasant, and rich. Sweet Corn Cheesecake It’s not a must-have dish, but it certainly offers guests a unique dessert experience as they dine around the World. Cross section of Sweet Corn Cheesecake There are lots of different drinks to choose from here as well! I really enjoyed the Sangria this year with the Shrimp Taco. It was an excellent pairing! It’s also worth mentioning that the alcohol is a bit lighter in this one. So it’s a refreshing and less expensive option on your Drinking Around the World tour. Sangria The popular Tequila Flight returns this year. It’s a great way to compare and determine which you prefer — Blanco, Reposado, or Anejo. Tequila Flight: Tequila Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo Of course, this wouldn’t be Mexico without at least one Margarita, right? This year, the featured flavor is a fruit-flavored combo, Strawberry Mango. The more-sweet-than-tart drink is served on the rocks rather than frozen. Strawberry Mango Margarita And if none of these options appeals, there’s always the classic Dos Equis to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for Continental Cuisine with flair, or plenty of heat from South of the Border, you’ll find lots to enjoy at both France and Mexico. Definitely a couple of must-try booths. 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. What dishes from the France or Mexico Booths are your new or classic favorites? Join in the conversation by leaving 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: Epcot Food and Wine Festival Food Pictures and Review: Mexico and Germany BoothsEpcot Food and Wine Festival Food Pictures: Ireland and France BoothsEpcot Food & Wine Festival Food Pictures and Review: Brazil and Puerto Rico Marketplace Booths View the full article

Captain's Log | Disney Cruise Line | Canada When you sail with Disney Cruise Line, you'll experience an unforgettable vacation with something for everyone. Check out the exclusive Canadian Resident offer for select Miami sailings. http://di....From:Disney ParksViews:8318ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events View the full article

Living in Florida, fall is my favorite time of year. Temperatures start to dip, the humidity (sort of) takes a break and autumn is in the air. Fall has already arrived here at Downtown Disney – and I know this because I’m surrounded by pumpkin-tinged treats. See a few of my top picks below: Pumpkin Spice Caramel Squares from Ghirardelli – you can only find these bites of amazingness in September and October, so stock up while you can. My fellow Disney Parks Blog author Jennifer Fickley-Baker introduced me to these mouth-watering morsels and I love/hate her for it!Pumpkin Shampoo and Conditioner Bars from Basin – with potassium, alpha-carotene, zinc, beta-carotene and lutein, they make your hair strong, soft and silky – a perfect complement to any Halloween costume you may be considering. (Rumor has it Basin also has a “Pumpkin Patch” soap, too. So fun.)Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks – this caffeinated favorite needs no explanation; my motto: once you’ve taken your first sip of the season, cute boots, bulky sweaters and festive scarves are fair game, no matter what the thermometer reads.Sweet Treats from Goofy’s Candy Company and Candy Cauldron – luckily, we’ve got eight weeks to sample the latest concoctions from my go-to candy shops. First up? Pumpkin fudge. (Review: Amazing.) Keep up with the latest seasonal offerings from Downtown Disney via our Twitter handle, @WDWDowntown. In the meantime, tell me which pumpkin product you can’t wait to try in the comments below. Happy fall, y’all! (I’m originally from Georgia, so I can say that.) ‘Fall’ in Love with Pumpkin-Inspired Delights at Downtown Disney by Darcy Clark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Wondering what merchandise events are headed your way this October at the Walt Disney World Resort? Take a look! Satisfy your appetite and quench your thirst for merchandise during this year’s 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Fellow author Steven Miller gave you a sneak preview of this year’s commemorative merchandise, here are a few other special appearances you won’t want to miss. Learn more. Festival Center – Paola Gutierrez (October 3, 24 and November 7) and William Silvers (October 4, 18 and November 1)Art of Disney – Rob Kaz (October 24 – 26) and Michelle St. Laurent (October 30 and November 1 – 2)Coming in November! Tim Rogerson and The Beekman Boys. October 2 – 12: Beloved artist David E. Doss returns to the Walt Disney World Resort this month. Look for special appearances by David, October 2 – 12 and 23 – 29 at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Learn more. October 8 – 12: Artist Greg McCullough will be on hand for special appearances and signings this month at the Walt Disney World Resort. Meet Greg, October 8 – 12 at Art of Disney in Epcot or October 15 – 19 and October 30 – November 5 at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Learn more. October 9 – 12: Meet artist Larry Dotson who will be appearing throughout the month at the Walt Disney World Resort. Look for Larry to appear at Main Street Cinema in Magic Kingdom Park, October 9 – 12 and 23 – 26 and at Art of Disney in Epcot, October 16 – 19. Learn more. October 10 – November 3: Look for the latest releases from Precious Moments doll designer and artist Linda Rick, including her new Halloween collection. Linda will appear throughout the day October 10 – 12 and again October 31 – November 1 at Once Upon A Toy in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Learn more. Which event are you most excited about? Walt Disney World Event Snapshot – October 2014 by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We’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?!)DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks Sample Page Know what you’re getting BEFORE using a precious snack credit or spending limited vacation dollars. Whether you want sweet, salty, crunchy, healthy, or something in between, The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks e-Book tells you where to find a snack to match your craving! 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/! 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: Grand Launch! The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom & Hollywood Studios Snacks e-BookGrand Launch! The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks e-Book, 2014 EditionGrand Launch and Discount: The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book, 2014 Edition View the full article