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Today is National Hugging Day, and what better way to celebrate than with Arendelle’s most huggable snowman, Olaf? As you may know, warm hugs are one of Olaf’s favorite things, and now during “Frozen Fun” at Disney California Adventure park, guests can get a warm hug from our favorite snowman himself at “Olaf’s Snow Fest.” While you’re there, make sure to explore more of Olaf’s favorite things: Visiting Friends: Make sure to grab a Return Time ticket for “Anna & Elsa’s Royal Welcome” to give warm hugs to Anna and Elsa, two of Olaf’s best friends, on National Hugging Day.Eating: From a build-your-own snowman cookie kit to Warm Hugs Hot White Chocolate (with delicious mint marshmallows!), there are lots of tasty new treats to try at “Olaf’s Snow Fest.”Singing: Head on over to the Crown Jewel Theatre to sing along with Arendelle Historians, who tell the tale of “Frozen,” and sing some of the film’s most popular tunes at “For the First Time in Forever – A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration.”Drawing: Do you want to draw a snowman? Spend some time in the Animation Academy, located inside the Animation Building, where aspiring artists will learn how to draw either Marshmallow or Olaf.Dancing: “Freeze the Night! A Family Dance Party” is the perfect place to dance the night away, but don’t forget to check out all this ‘cool’ party has to offer! Ice sculptors, dancers and the not-so-huggable snowman Marshmallow are all invited to this nighttime celebration.Want to take some warm hugs home with you? Stop by Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post to grab your very own Olaf plush and take a peek at the rest of the “Frozen Fun” merchandise available. Happy National Hugging Day! Celebrate National Hugging Day with Warm Hugs from Olaf During ‘Frozen Fun’ at Disney California Adventure Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

One of the most popular videos we ever shared in our “Learn to Draw” series is a step-by-step tutorial on how to draw Olaf, the lovable snowman from “Frozen.” Check out what happens when actor Josh Gad, who voiced Olaf in the film, stops by The Magic of Disney Animation to test his own skills at drawing his animated friend. Josh, a Florida native, also shares what he loves about Disney Parks and talks about how it’s “surreal” to see “Frozen” characters added into the mix. For previous animation tutorials on some of your favorite Disney characters, check out the list below: Learn to Draw Mickey’s Pal Pluto at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Hiro from ‘Big Hero 6′ Learn to Draw Baymax From ‘Big Hero 6’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Learn to Draw Rapunzel’s Buddy, Pascal, at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Stitch at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Winnie the Pooh at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Jack Skellington at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Oswald the Lucky Rabbit at Disney’s Art of Animation ResortLearn How to Draw ‘Frozen’s’ Anna at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Disney Characters at Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosDo You Want to Draw a Snowman? Learn How at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLearn to Draw Special Edition: ‘Frozen’ Voice Actor Josh Gad Tests His Skills at Drawing Olaf by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

See what happens when actor Josh Gad, who voiced Olaf in Disney's "Frozen," stops by The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney's Hollywood Studios to test his own drawing skills: http://di.sn/6004xsw.From:Disney ParksViews:4280154ratingsTime:01:40More inTravel & Events

Welcome back to Pizzafari! Learn About: PizzafariAnimal Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsThe last time we visited this Animal Kingdom Counter Service spot was to try some of the breakfast offerings after they had a menu refresh. But the star of the show here is all in the name, so we’re back to review Pizzafari’s take on “Meat Lovers Pizza.” You’ll also find this item on the menu over at Pizza Planet in Hollywood Studios, and as far as atmosphere goes, that’s a pretty great spot, too. But I just so happened to be at Animal Kingdom scoping out the presumed location of the final in-Park Starbucks (the former Creature Comforts merchandise location), so Pizzafari it was! Pizzafari Pizzafari Menu Of course, it isn’t a trip to Pizzafari without checking out some of the signature murals all over the walls, no matter which room you dine in. I truly never tire of looking at these. Pizzafari mural Butterfly mural in ordering area Turtle mural Pizzafari mural But, ultimately, I strolled past the poised bobcat at the entrance (at least, I think that’s what he is) and took my pizza outside. Pizzafari entrance statue It was one of those perfect “winter” days, and you simply have to take advantage of any days you won’t melt outdoors in Florida. (Covered outdoor seating is available at Pizzafari as well.) Outdoor table View of Pizzafari from outside table Like all other pizzas served at Pizzafari, the Meat Lovers comes with a side of Caesar Salad. Meat Lovers Pizza with Caesar side salad There are just two meats to be found on the Meat Lovers pizza: pepperoni and sausage. Meat Lovers Pizza And there are a few slices of pepperoni in there, but — as you can tell — they are overwhelmed in parts by the beaucoup sausage. Closeup on toppings I like to get bad news over with first, so here goes: the Meat Lover’s Pizza is still your standard Disney World Counter Service pizza — which is to say that by and large, there’s far too much crust and not enough “center” (which typically equals not enough topping). Meat Lovers Pizza Specific to the Meat Lovers, the dough in the center that does exist isn’t hearty enough to support the heavy toppings, so it’s quite floppy — and not in the good way that a huge slice of New York pizza is floppy. I barely snapped this picture before losing some of the topping to the table. Slice of Meat Lovers Pizza The good news is that the Meat Lovers option does live up to the name (though I might call it “Sausage Lovers” over “Meat Lovers”). The flavor burst from the sheer amount of sausage and fennel did perk up what can otherwise be a pretty bland pie, making it feel like I was getting more pizza bang for the buck than the standard cheese or pepperoni. I’d go so far as to say that this is my favorite choice among the pizza options for that reason… with the caveat that it’s still counter service pizza. Oh, just a note on the side Caesar Salad: mine was nicely fresh and crisp, and not too heavy on the dressing. True, it’s just a salad, but I enjoyed it, and since it’s included as part of the meal I thought I’d give it a nod. Side of Caesar Salad I do want to say that even though Pizzafari is a typically very busy spot during lunch hours, I always meet some wonderful, pleasant Cast Members no matter how crazy it gets. And the atmosphere and color here truly is something else. For those reasons, I still think it’s a great spot to visit, but my preference remains with breakfast for my meal of choice here. Regardless of whether we’re discussing breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there are some rumors flying around Pizzafari. Will 2015 bring a Table Service restaurant to areas of this Counter Service location? If so, how will that affect the rest of Pizzafari? With these and so many other changes possibly coming to Animal Kingdom (and some changes that are certain, like the upcoming Rivers of Light evening spectacular), we’re eager to see what’s in store! Do you enjoy visiting Pizzafari? 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: Breadsticks and Salad at Animal Kingdom’s Pizzafari Review: Pizzafari Review: New Breakfast Items at Animal Kingdom’s Pizzafari and Dawa Bar View the full article

A true Disneyland park original, Mad Tea Party has taken millions of our guests for a spin over the past nearly-sixty years. Climbing inside a giant tea cup makes you feel like you’ve stepped into Wonderland and shrunk down a bit with the help of a mysterious cake or potion. But seen from a different perspective – through the lens of Disneyland Chief Photographer Paul Hiffmeyer – these could be just regular-size tea cups … take a look! A Unique Point of View: Mad Tea Party at Disneyland Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

They’re heeeeere…. Disney Parks “You Are Here” Collection As of TODAY, Main Street Bakery and Fountain View (the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT Starbucks locations) are carrying Starbucks mugs dedicated to the park in which they serve your mochas, Frappuccinos, and soy, half-caf, vanilla lattes (no whip!). We stopped by Fountain View today to see the Epcot mug. Since you can only see one side of the design in the box… Epcot “You Are Here” mug … we grabbed one to show you each side of the design (if a circular mug indeed has a “side,” that is). Epcot “You Are Here” Mug Epcot “You Are Here” Mug Epcot “You Are Here” Mug Epcot “You Are Here” Mug Bottom of Epcot mug Also at Fountain View were the travel cold cups, designed to match the regular ones you would receive if you ordered a cold beverage in Disney Parks. Travel Cold Cups Travel Cold Cups Thanks to reader Matt, we got a peek at the Magic Kingdom mug also! Magic Kingdom “You Are Here” Mug With two more Starbucks locations coming to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, it’s anticipated that each location will receive its own special mug as well. Here’s a sneak peek at the mugs you’ll find there, with photos courtesy of Starbucks. Animal Kingdom “You Are Here” Mug Hollywood Studios “You Are Here” Mug Find them in Disneyland in Anaheim, too! You may recall seeing the Orlando mug that is carried at the Downtown Disney Starbucks locations. Orlando mug It’s part of a series I always referred to as “city mugs,” and many Starbucks fans enjoy collecting these cups from their travels around the world. Well, now they can be collected for travels around “the World,” too ;). Will you be collecting the Disney “You Are Here” mugs? 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: First Disney World Starbucks Locations Announced! Spotted: Unique Holiday Mugs at Disney World Starbucks News! Downtown Disney West Side Starbucks Now Offering Starbucks Evening Menu with Beer and Wine View the full article

What do you do with your laundry lint? You may remember that Circle D Corral, a working ranch that is home to the animals of the Disneyland Resort, makes it into compost. Thanks to efforts begun four years ago by cast member Andrea Raney, Circle D Corral is now gold-level Zero Waste certified by the U.S. Zero Waste Business Council, with 99 percent of its waste repurposed, composted or recycled. In addition to recycling paper, cardboard, plastics and metal, Circle D Corral composts all animal waste and hay scraps, hand towels and laundry lint from the Disneyland Hotel and coffee grounds from Disneyland Resort restaurants. Congratulations to Circle D Corral for becoming the first Walt Disney Company location, and the first location in a theme park, to achieve this certification! Disneyland Resort Circle D Corral Now Zero Waste Certified by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

In early November, Splitsville Luxury Lanes quietly introduced a new offering inside their venue – live bands on Saturday nights. With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I only recently had the chance to experience it for myself. Three months after the first band took the stage, I can attest that “quiet” isn’t an adjective I’d use to describe it—it’s loud, bright and totally fun! On the night I visited, The Jimmy James Band covered everything from The Beatles to Taylor Swift. Taking requests and encouraging guests to sing along and get out on the dance floor, the high-energy enthusiasm in the air was contagious. My party of four was perfectly positioned to catch every shake of the tambourine, and when the bass guitarist came on the floor to rock with the crowd, I was just inches away! Of course, we bowled, too. And had dinner. And drinks. With three sushi lovers and a full-throttle carnivore, our table was covered with edamame, a variety of rolls, and the Bacon Cheeseburger. Oh, and let us not forget a few Frozen Schooners – I really do think Splitsville serves the coldest beer in town! The only downside? The food was so good that everyone missed my strike. With a new year here, Splitsville is rolling into 2015 with even more enhancements. Their menu now includes Crispy Wings, a Sushi Tuna Rice Bowl, a Foghorn Burger, Steak Alfredo and a California Crunch Roll. New drinks include a Cinnamon Toast Colada (I’m so regretting not trying that one during my last visit!) and Sangrita (Margarita meets Red Sangria). They recently expanded their first floor Bullet Bar, too, so there’s more space than ever to catch your game, people watch, or – my new favorite – enjoy live music on Saturday nights! Want to check out the bands during your next West Side visit? The Jimmy James Band, Blonde Ambition or another guest group will perform 9 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. every Saturday night. There’s no cover charge and there are plenty of tables, bar seats and lanes on the first floor with great views of the stage and dance floor. To guarantee a spot and reserve a lane, contact kingpin@splitsvillelanes.com or call 407-938-PINS; for dinner only, you can book online here. Now, more than ever, Splitsville really is my favorite Downtown Disney West Side spot to “Roll In & Rock Out!” Would you agree? Splitsville Hits a High Note with New Saturday Night Bands at Downtown Disney West Side by Darcy Clark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Wondering what the latest cupcake at Hollywood Studios is these days? Well, look no further than Counter Service spots such as Starring Rolls, ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, Pizza Planet, Rosie’s All American Cafe, and Studio Catering Co. for the Chocolate Cupcake with Banana Buttercream Icing and Caramel Drizzle! Chocolate Cupcake with Banana Buttercream Icing at Starring Rolls You’ll see it by that title in the locations above, but since that’s a suuuuper long name, let’s just call it the Big Hero 6 Cupcake, since the special guest star on this one is a white chocolate Baymax topper! Big Hero 6 Cupcake By the way, he is one hearty hero. It’s almost like getting an additional chocolate lollipop with your cupcake, like with the White Chocolate Elephant Cupcake found at Animal Kingdom’s Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery (though not quite so substantial). Baymax Topper With a HUGE mound of banana buttercream frosting and heaping coating of toppings (chocolate bits, caramel drizzle, and even more caramel clinging to the chocolate pieces), there really isn’t anything subtle here. Base of the cupcake Close-up on toppings The only unassuming thing is the nicely moist chocolate cake base, sans any hidden filling. Inside the cupcake The big question for me before digging in was the banana buttercream frosting. I thought the overall flavor combo might resemble that of the Monkey Cupcake at Old Port Royale Food Court at Caribbean Beach Resort. However, since that is a combination of banana chunks within a banana pudding center, the flavors in that one are much more natural. Frosting close-up The Banana Buttercream icing used here, on the other hand, was much closer to a candy-banana flavor (think less “Runts,” more “Laffy Taffy”). Since it was so, SO sweet (and made all the sweeter by the candy topping), I found the overall effect to be somewhat overwhelming, and after a few bites I had to wave the white flag of surrender. Still, if your little one can’t resist a photo opp with their very own Baymax cupcake (I mean, he IS pretty awesome), it could be a fun one for sharing, so everyone can have a bite or two and finish it off together. But act fast… it’s only a matter of time before a Valentine’s Cupcake is likely on the way to replace this big guy! Would you like to try the Big Hero 6 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: Snack Series: Blueberry Cupcake with Lemon Cream Cheese Icing at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Review: Banana Parfait and Vanilla Cake with Chocolate Custard at Hollywood Studios Review: White Chocolate Raspberry Easter Cupcake at Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

Recently, I was invited to dine with royalty at Cinderella’s Dining at Cítricos—Breakfast and Brunch with the Disney Princesses at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. I’m excited to share my experience with you! The magical experience begins with a photo opportunity with none other than the beautiful Cinderella. One of Disney’s signature restaurants, Cítricos is beautiful during the day, especially with the presence of the Disney princesses. The meal starts with a basket of freshly baked multi-grain croissants, apple pastries and blueberry muffins. A special touch are the wishing wands and swords brought to the table to use in the Magical Wishing Ceremony, an enchanting moment when—with a little Disney magic—your prince’s or princess’ wish can come true! Guests receive a choice of appetizer: a garden salad with artisanal greens, endive, roasted carrots, sugar snap peas and Marcona almonds with Riesling vinaigrette; charcuterie; chicken noodle soup or a fresh fruit plate. I chose the fresh fruit and was delighted with a plate of pineapple, strawberries, apple slices and more with a dollop of crème fraîche. During our meal, Disney princesses made their way to our table for photos and lively conversation about the Seven Dwarves Mine Train, magic carpets and life under the sea. For my entrée, I chose the scrambled egg whites with hot ten-grain cereal, Greek yogurt topped with granola, a whole-grain croissant and fresh fruit. The portion sizes were perfect, and it was a delicious start to my morning. Other entrées for adults include steak and slow-poached eggs, Florida shrimp with creamy cheddar cheese and smoked bacon grits, grilled ham and slow-poached eggs on top of a biscuit with gravy and more. The children’s menu is sure to delight your prince or princess—with appetizers such as bite-sized cheddar cheese and grapes and entrée choices ranging from Mickey waffles with sausage and bacon to steak with mashed potatoes and sweet corn. The meal ended with a decadent dessert trio of chocolate-raspberry cake, crème brûlée and a vanilla bean cream puff. Needless to say, I was sufficiently stuffed at the end of this meal. Reservations for Cinderella’s Dining at Cítricos—Breakfast and Brunch with the Disney Princesses can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com, or calling 407-WDW-DINE. My wish has already come true—I get to bring the magic of Disney Parks Food & Beverage to Disney Parks Blog readers around the world. May all of your wishes come true! Enjoy Breakfast or Brunch With Royalty at Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

So. If YOU had a Mine Train cart of your very own, would you fill it with jewels… Gems in the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Queue or with Disney Popcorn? Disney Popcorn! What if you didn’t have to choose? Because you can have BOTH, thanks to the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Popcorn Bucket, available at Popcorn Carts throughout Magic Kingdom!!! Seven Dwarfs Mine Train popcorn bucket This one is a beauty, and just like the cars on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Roller Coaster, the body of the cart swings from side to side. Swinging Mine Train Bucket AND if you have more than one, you can hitch the carts together to build your own train. SWEET!! Popcorn Cart Jewels For you bucket collectors out there, I’m thinking this one is probably a must-own. But what do YOU think ? We’d love to hear it! Find it for $12.50 at several Magic Kingdom popcorn carts while supplies last. Or on e-bay for, like, $50. ;-D Is owning the Mine Train Popcorn Bucket on your bucket list? Please let us know your thoughts 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: Dining in Disneyland: Zero Premium Popcorn Bucket and Other Halloween Time Popcorn Souvenirs Star Wars Weekends: Darth Vader Popcorn Bucket New! Souvenir Dumbo Popcorn Container in Disney World View the full article

We always love to talk with you about the latest and greatest of Disney food here on DFB. Learn About: Columbia Harbour HouseMagic Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsBut today we’re taking time to savor a couple of classics: the Lighthouse and Anchors Aweigh Sandwiches have been around for a long time, and they can only be found at Columbia Harbour House in the Magic Kingdom. This quaint counter service spot is a hidden gem for Disney visitors. It’s not splashy like Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, and it’s not really huge and sprawling like Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn. It’s small and understated. In fact, you could easily walk right by and not even know it’s there! Straddling Liberty Square and Fantasyland (here’s what it looks like from the Fantasyland side…) Columbia Harbour House — Fantasyland View …the restaurant offers several long-time Disney guest favorites. It’s one of those spots that first-timers don’t really know about unless they stumble upon it, but Disney vets try to visit as much as possible. Ordering Area Fish, chicken, pasta, and more are the features here, and there always seems to be one or two “specials” happening at any given time. But the best part about this spot is that the upstairs dining area tends to be blessedly quiet much of the time. Upstairs window tables at Columbia Harbour House It’s a spot I often escape to when I need a breather in the Magic Kingdom. Columbia Harbour House upstairs But we’re not here to show you pics of empty tables — we’re here to tell you all about some of those must-have eats that so many Disney fans hold near and dear. These two sandwiches have quite the following among DFB readers, but those new to Columbia Harbour House might wonder what all the fuss is about. After all, upon reading the description of Anchors Aweigh — which is basically a tuna sandwich — many may ask, “what’s the deal?” (Jerry Seinfeld voiceover in your head entirely optional). Columbia Harbour House menu And it’s true — there aren’t any super unique or wacky ingredients that you can’t easily combine in your own home. No surprises here (unless there’s some added pixie dust that my eye can’t pick up. You never know around these parts…). What you see is what you get: tuna salad, tomato, and lettuce on multi-grain bread, served with potato chips. Frankly, it’s not even the prettiest sandwich ever, from a photography perspective. Anchors Aweigh sandwich with chips Anchors Aweigh But maybe the simplicity is what makes it so good: it’s just an easy, quality sandwich for when you need a break from fried foods or sugary decadence. The cold tuna salad and veggies are basic, but fresh. Speaking for myself, what I’ve always liked most about it is the very lightly toasted multi-grain bread on which it’s served. It’s hearty without being too “seedy,” and you feel like you’re doing something a little better for yourself by going healthier than something served on a bun. Multi-grain bread Multi-grain bread Our second sandwich – the Lighthouse — is served on that same bread (hooray!). Lighthouse Sandwich Lighthouse sandwich It’s a good time to note that Columbia Harbour House is known for having a few options that are great for vegetarians (including the Vegetarian Chili), and the Lighthouse is one more. The emphasis here is on the lightly dressed broccoli slaw. Lighthouse sandwich It’s difficult to see the hummus unless you deconstruct the sandwich, but since it’s on the bottom, you can definitely taste it from the first bite. Hummus and tomato I do think this is a love-it-or-leave-it meal. Not everyone will like the texture of soft slaw and hummus on the bread. Hummus as the main source of protein is a unique choice, but for those who love it, it’s a good one. Comparing them side by side, the Anchors Aweigh is a very basic sandwich that’s just done well, while the Lighthouse is a fairly unique offering that has its own niche. But these two options just barely scratch the surface of everything on the menu. You’ll find fish (fried or grilled), chicken, the popular Lobster Roll, and even some comfort classics at dinner like Seafood Macaroni and Cheese and Chicken Pot Pie. Turns out, it’s not just an expression to say there really is something for just about everyone at Columbia Harbour House. Is Columbia Harbour House a favorite stop for you? 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: Columbia Harbour House at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Guest Review: Magic Kingdom’s Columbia Harbour House Review: Seafood Macaroni & Cheese and Chicken Pot Pie at Columbia Harbour House View the full article

Ready for some changes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios? We’ve got some updates on the facelift with these pics of the new Trolley Car Cafe (a.k.a. Starbucks) set to open in February! Trolley Car Starbucks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Also…Cannonball! While echoes of childhood splashdowns into the neighborhood pool may be ringing in your ears, what we are really happy about is the return of meatball subs or CANNONBALLS to the Earl of Sandwich menu. And did you hear?!! Make your travel plans now — we have the dates for the 2015 Epcot International Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Stay tuned for in-depth coverage from Disney Food Blog. For all the details on the above news and more, just click on the links below! Disney Food NewsCannonballs (meatball subs) have returned to the Earl of Sandwich menu in both Downtown Disney Orlando and Anaheim!Signage has been unveiled at the Trolley Car Cafe Starbucks location in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.The dates of the 2015 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival have been released!The Festival is running for seven weeks.The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort announced the dates for their 6th Annual Food and Wine Classic.L’Artisan des Glaces in the France Pavilion of Walt Disney World’s Epcot debuted a beautiful new treat — the Strawberries and Cream Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich! 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 New Look for Online Disney Restaurant Menus, 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 about Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! We’re featuring seafood finds this week. Sorry, landlubbers. First up, my awesome buddy Daniel tweeted a dish from Coral Reef in Epcot. Isn’t it gorgeous?! It’s Lobster Manicotti. Lobster Manicotti Over at California Grill in Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Cia enjoyed the Butternut Squash Lobster Bisque! Butternut Squash Lobster Bisque Do you have a favorite find? Share your Disney food photos! Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book Today with a Discount!Want a big discount on our most popular DFB Guide in time for the new year? Or, you know, just cause you want to start planning your 2015 Disney trip TODAY? ;-D It’s yours! Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code PRE2015 for $4 off! We know that when it comes to your Disney vacays, planning ahead is practically essential these days. And if you can save time and money in the process — even better! And that’s why today, when you pre-order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining and enter promo code PRE2015, you’ll save $4 off of the already low cover price! But the really cool part? You get two books for the price of one! We’ll deliver the 2014 Guide to you immediately, and email you the 2015 Guide as soon as it is available later this month. Here are a couple of sample pages for you — just click to enlarge! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Page Samples Pages of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2013 What’s in the DFB Guide?The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is stuffed FULL of helpful features to help make your trip go smoothly, like: 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!While our 2014 Guide was extensive, Disney World is always updating menus, prices, and other dining info. And we’re always finding new things to tell you about! So we’re updating this edition with brand new details and more exclusive info! With a 100% money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose! Happy New Year!Chef Mickey Wants to Cook With You! On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix showcases the Cooking with Mickey Cookbook. ‘Cause don’t we all need a little taste from Disney World! Walt Disney World for Grown Ups sips delicious margaritas at Upcountry Beverages at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Great stop for quenching your adult thirst! DisZine features new culinary offerings at Disney Cruise Line’s Remy! A dessert experience? Yes, please. AllEars reviews Epcot’s Royal Akershus Banquet Hall. Is it worth the price? Find out! Disney Parks Blog shares breakfast at Ulu Cafe at Disney’s Aulani Resort. As if we need yet another reason to dream about this Hawai’i resort?!! 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: January 4, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 11, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 19, 2014 View the full article

Two people are dead and one is injured after a shooting near the Melbourne Square mall food court this morning, police said. View the full article

Lake Eola won't freeze over because Orlando will host a hockey all-star game this week. View the full article

Republican activists rejected Gov. Rick Scott's hand-picked party chairman Saturday and instead elected Blaise Ingoglia to lead the state GOP. View the full article

Yet another Starbucks — the fifth in Walt Disney World — has a grand opening right around the corner. And today we got a glimpse of some of the fun signage for this new location in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Trolley Car Starbucks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Themed after the old time trolley cars that go hand in hand with Hollywood’s heyday, this Starbucks will be an ideal spot for Disney guests to grab coffee and a bite to eat on their way to the park’s biggest attractions. Trolley Car Starbucks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Maybe the inside will be a bit like Fiddler, Fifer and Practical Cafe in Disney California Adventure in Disneyland Resort — another location themed to about the same time in Walt’s history. Trolley Car Starbucks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Set to open next month, this new java stop comes along with a lot of other changes at the Studios — some pretty obvious… See ya later, Hat! …and some just rumored! We can’t wait to see what the latest will be with the Backlot area! Are you up for a Starbucks stop on your way to Toy Story Midway Mania? Let us know in the comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Confirmed! Starbucks Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in February 2015 News! Starbucks Signage Up in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom! News! Disney’s Hollywood Studios Buy-One-Get-One Meal Coupon View the full article

This week on the Disney Parks Blog, we shared a bunch of exciting images from the 2015 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and the inaugural Castaway Cay Challenge. This year, the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend “ran” for four full days and featured more than 26,700 registered runners competing in the full marathon. Individuals from more than 60 countries and all 50 states made the 26.2 mile trek through Disney Parks, the Walt Disney World Speedway and ESPN Wide World of Sports complex. GalleryThis Week in Disney Parks Photos: Running Around Our ‘World’ view allThe Castaway Cay Challenge was a 5K course that allowed runners to travel through a lovely island setting with themed photo stops along the way. More than 700 runners participated in this first-of-it’s-kind event. Have you participated in a runDisney event? What did you like about it? Tell us in the “Comments” section below! This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Running Around Our ‘World’ by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Despite a cool morning, the mercury could rise to a warmer 74 degrees Saturday, meteorologists say. View the full article

The measles outbreak centered in California is rapidly expanding, with officials now confirming 51 cases of the illness -- nearly double the number reported Tuesday -- and warning that more people will probably fall sick with the highly contagious virus. View the full article

The Cat Protection Society houses 400 abandoned kitties at any one time until they find their forever homes, but the Eustis shelter also opens its doors to dogs in need. View the full article

The success of President Barack Obama's new Cuba policy depends partly on hotel hand towels. View the full article

Setting the stage for a potentially historic ruling, the Supreme Court announced Friday it will decide whether same-sex couples have a right to marry everywhere in America under the Constitution. View the full article

Last week, we shared our Disneyland park must-do’s … and I’ve got to say, you all had some pretty good things to share. This week, let’s head over to Disney California Adventure park. These are my must-do’s – share yours in the comments! Stop #1 – Red Car Trolley, Buena Vista Street I love a nice stroll down Buena Vista Street, but the Red Car Trolley is the best way to see it in style. Read about the real-life inspiration behind this attraction in this post. Stop #2 – Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Buena Vista Street Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream is the only place at the Disneyland Resort where you can get a customized, hand-dipped ice cream bar! Stop #3 – Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge, Buena Vista Street Carthay Circle Restaurant is an amazing place to eat – the beautiful restaurant, the delicious food. But if you only have time for a quick stop, I recommend the downstairs lounge. I love the vintage-inspired cocktails. Stop #4- Frozen Fun, Hollywood Land This is a brand-new addition to my list. “Frozen Fun” includes so much to do – and my favorite is “Olaf’s Snow Fest.” I grew up in Florida and now I live in Southern California, so playing in the snow is a genuine novelty for me. Stop #5 – The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Hollywood Land This is one of my favorite Disney Parks attractions of all time, so yeah – must-do. Stop #6 – Cozy Cone Motel, Cars Land Some time ago, my friend Kelly and I demonstrated our love for all things at the Cozy Cone. Top of my list: Red’s Apple Freeze. Stop #7 – Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, Cars Land Did you think I was going to say Radiator Springs Racers? Well yeah, that’s an obvious one, but my absolute favorite attraction in Cars Land is Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree. It’s surprisingly intense but still great for kids … a perfect Disney Parks attraction. Stop #8 – Alfresco Tasting Terrace, Pacific Wharf I love this quiet spot, where you can almost forget you’re in a theme park. And the wonderful wines and delicious food just makes it even better! Stop #9 – California Screamin’, Paradise Pier The only roller coaster at the Disneyland Resort with an inverted loop is definitely a must-do! Stop #10 – “World of Color” Even though it’s closed for refurbishment right now, this nighttime spectacular remains on the list. It’s continued to evolve throughout its nearly five-year run, and I’m amazed by it every time I see it. That’s my list. Share yours! The Twilight Zone® is a registered trademark of CBS, Inc. and used with permission pursuant to a license with CBS, Inc. What are Your Disney California Adventure Park Must-Do’s? by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

In 1990, Amy Greenman was shot by a purse snatcher, she said Friday. And in 2001, her sister was among those who died in the World Trade Center. She said she never prayed for revenge, never hated. View the full article