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We’re sharing our favorite finds to level up your Disney vacation! PinFolio We’ve tested TONS of different gadgets and accessories to see which ones deserve a permanent spot in our Disney World park bag. Let’s take a look at the Disney finds that we give our official stamp of approval! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. A small but mighty portable charger! INIU Portable Charger Between managing dining reservations, making Lightning Lane selections, and taking allll the pictures, a portable charger is an absolute Disney World essential for us. This INIU Power Bank charged our devices surprisingly fast and held lots of power for such a compact size. It has multiple charging ports and comes with a carrying strap for ultimate on-the-go convenience! View on Amazon The best way to pin trade! PinFolio Go Pin Display Bag Keep your Disney pins safe and secure while still having easy access to them for trading with the PinFolio Go Pin Display Bag! It can hold up to 40 one-inch pins, with thin plastic dividers between each section to keep them from getting scratched. We were able to slip it inside our Loungefly mini-backpack, so it’s compact enough to carry even in a smaller park bag. The PinFolio backing that you stick the pins into is SERIOUSLY secure — we held it upside down and shook it, and none of our pins budged at all! It’s the perfect combination of easy access and secure storage. View on Amazon A waist fan that actually made us TOO cold! AMKEN Waist Fan It’s no secret that it can get HOT in Disney World. And if you tend to get especially overheated in your midsection, the AMKEN Waist Fan is a serious game-changer! It clips right on to your belt or waistband and has an impressively powerful cooling effect. In fact, when we used it, we had to keep repositioning it because we actually got too cold where it was concentrated! It’s a must-have for us on the hottest Disney World days. View on Amazon We love the convenience of a handheld fan! JISULIFE 3 IN 1 Portable Fan When the temperatures aren’t quite as hot, or we need a more compact option, this Portable Fan is our go-to! It’s rechargeable with multiple speed settings, and it also doubles (and triples) as a power bank AND a flashlight! This fan is super compact, and it folds up to a small enough size that we could even slip it into our pocket. It’s the best way to keep cool without sacrificing hardly any space in your park bag! View on Amazon Our go-to Disney World poncho! Our favorite poncho! Pop-up storms are pretty common in Disney World, which is why we always come prepared with our Frogg Toggs poncho! It’s our go-to brand because the material is just about as comfortable as we’ve found in a poncho and it’s super lightweight. Plus, it comes with a carrying pouch so we can pack it back up after the storm passes without getting everything else in our park bag wet! View on Amazon A swappable FuelRod charger so we never have to worry about a dead phone! FuelRod If you’re serious about keeping your phone charged in Disney World, a FuelRod Portable Charger is worth the investment! It’s a little pricier than the average power bank, but it comes with the massive benefit of being able to be swapped out at a FuelRod kiosk for a fully charged version if yours happens to run out of power. There are FuelRod kiosks at each of the Disney World parks, so this charger gives us total peace of mind that we’ll never find ourselves without our phone when we need it! View on Amazon Keep your MagicBands charged! MultiCharger for MagicBand+ Speaking of keeping essential devices charged, this MultiCharger for MagicBand+ is specifically designed to charge up to four MagicBands at one time from the same outlet! It’s super compact so it’s easy to pack. We also love the convenience of being able to charge the whole family’s MagicBands at once while only needing to sacrifice one outlet, since they can be precious commodities on vacation. View on Amazon These are the Disney finds that absolutely DO live up to the hype! We’ll keep testing the latest Disney World gadgets and accessories around the parks, so stay tuned to DFB for more reviews and recommendations! View the full article

You know how we love to play detective around here. Whenever Disney files a patent, we put on our Imagineer hats and try to figure out what it could mean for the parks. And this time? Disney has filed TWO brand-new patents, and they could be total game-changers. ©Disney Now, before we all start planning our trips around experiences that don’t exist yet, a quick reminder: a patent does NOT mean Disney has confirmed anything is coming to the parks. Some of these ideas make it to a ride; some stay on the drawing board forever. But it’s still a fun peek at what the Imagineers might be dreaming up! Let’s get into the latest filings. Disney is filing patents all the time — literally multiple per week. They’re always cooking something up over there, and these two updated patent filings have us wondering exactly what Imagineers have planned for future character interactions. Buckle up, because we’ve got some tech language to decipher here. DJ Rex The first updated patent is titled “Emotionally Responsive Artificial Intelligence Interactive Character,” which is, objectively, a mouthful. Don’t worry — we can explain. Essentially, the goal of this patent is to make an AI character more emotional and to relate to those who interact with it more. Let’s say a Disney AI character (a robot, animated character on a screen, a chatbot, etc.) asks you about a memory. The system in this patent could then break your story down into parts, compare it to a large library of backstory memories written for the character, and then respond to you by sharing its closest matching memory, relating to yours. ©USPTO.gov But, if none of the character’s memories is a close enough match, the system could make up a new memory that mirrors yours and permanently adds it to the character’s backstory. The patent refers to this as “hallucinated memory.” The idea is that the character can relate to whoever is talking to it. Additionally, the patent states that any stored user history would exclude personal information like age, gender, and ethnicity. A potential phone-based version of this technology would keep data on your device. ©USPTO.gov The second updated patent goes hand in hand with the previous one. “AI Generated Creative Content Based on Shared Memories” would start similarly to the first patent, but this system would match your memory and write and perform an original piece for you, like a song, poem, or choreography. The emotion in the matched memory would set the tempo, key, instruments, and even the pattern the guitar strums. The tone of your voice could also shape the mood, too. The system would then create an entire song structure, lyrics, and music to perform for you. ©USPTO.gov This patent also mentions the potential for it to be used in soundtracks, background music at sports and entertainment venues, and control signals for lighting, projections, and special effects. Now, keep in mind that just because these patents have been filed does not mean we’ll see this tech in the parks anytime soon — or at all. But, hey, never say never! Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s We’ll be on the lookout for even more new Disney patents you need to know about and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news — and check out our video on 2027 Disney changes below! Check out more patent news at the links below! This New Patent Could Be a Game-Changer for Your Disney World PhotosCould Disney’s Animal Kingdom Be Getting a MASSIVE Upgrade?Disney Just Filed a Game-Changing Patent For Ride AccessibilityDisney’s New Patent Could CHANGE How You Talk to Characters in the ParksNEW Disney Patent Reveals Encanto Ride Clue…and It Could Change EVERYTHING Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of these new patents? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

It might as well be snowing in Florida because the holidays are happening VERY soon, and we are ready. One of our favorite things to do is go to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom…where we actually DO get snow (well, snope, but that counts, too). Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party If you’re a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Member, you probably already know that you can get a discount on Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets, but did you know you can also get a FREE souvenir to take home with you at the party? If not, we’ve got all the details! DVC Members can already score a $10 discount on Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets for select evenings, but they can also get a free gift just for attending the party. A FREE holiday keepsake will be available for eligible DVC members at DVC McKim’s Mile House, a DVC member lounge in Frontierland. Disney Vacation Club McKim’s Mile House Yep, you just have to show up at the lounge during the party from 6 PM to 10 PM, and you can pick up a special keepsake on the front porch. Easy-peasy, right? This keepsake will be available for every night of the party, too, so you won’t want to miss out on it. However, note that regular lounge facilities will not be available during the party. Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Of course, there are plenty of other things to do at the party, too. The party has an exclusive parade, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, you will NOT want to miss. Plus, there’s a special holiday fireworks show: Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. Fireworks at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase exclusive party snacks and drinks, but you can also get FREE cookies, hot cocoa, and apple cider. On top of that, you’ll ride attractions with a shorter wait, and some will even have a holiday overlay. There’s also exclusive entertainment, special character experiences, exclusive party merchandise, and more. FREE Hot Cocoa Cookie made with DOVE Chocolate Pieces and Hot Cocoa We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney World holiday news, so stay tuned to DFB for more. FIRST LOOK at Exclusive Holiday Souvenirs Coming to Disney World If you’ve never been to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, be sure to check out our guide to the party in 2025!  Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

A brand-new hotel is on the way to Disney World next year, and it’s bringing a massively expensive — we’re talking over $5,000 — room type with it! Fun details On July 1st, Disney will open the new Lakeshore Lodge on the former site of the River Country water park. The hotel’s design is going to be “inspired by the majesty of nature and its enduring influence on Disney artists,” with elements of numerous films, including Pocahontas, Brother Bear, Encanto, Fantasia, and Bambi. The lodge is set to be home to a massive waterplay/pool complex known as the Wetlands, a cadre of new dining options, and 967 guest rooms, including several Lake Houses. But some of these rooms can get QUITE expensive… Here’s what a $5,195 room at Lakeshore Lodge will get you. The 2-bedroom Lake House will arguably be the star room at the hotel. Offering accommodation for eight adults, the house features a king bed, a pair of queen beds, a pair of twin-size pull-down beds, and offers views of Bay Lake and partial views of the Magic Kingdom and its fireworks. However, the rooms come with a whopping price tag, maxing out at nearly $5,200 during the 2027 Christmas season! ©Disney So, what does the $5,000 Lake House offer? According to Disney, amenities include a coffee maker, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi internet access, a dining table, dishwasher, flat-panel TV, a full bathroom with walk-in shower, a hairdryer, an in-room safe, a microwave, patio deck, plates, bowls and utensils, pots & pans, a full-size refrigerator, a stove & oven, a toaster, and a washer and dryer. Concept art released by Disney shows elements of the room. The floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the natural world are on full display, in line with the hotel’s core theme. ©Disney The open-concept seating areas accentuate that ambiance, with a color scheme of woods and natural shades. ©Disney The kitchen area, while large, seemingly sits tucked into a corner, allowing for open space for guests to move around the dining table. ©Disney Artwork inspired by the setting hangs in the room, similar to the aesthetic we’ve seen throughout concept art of the hotel’s restaurants and common areas. ©Disney The bedrooms continue the motif, highlighted by a light fixture array designed to look like a mountain, with purples, greens, and blues illuminating the peak. ©Disney The theme even extends to the spacious bathroom, complete with wood fixtures and ceiling windows allowing natural light to cascade in while keeping the space private. ©Disney The Lake House will join the ranks of Disney World’s highest-priced luxury options, including the bungalows at the Polynesian Village Resort, which are in the same price range during comparable times of year. Polynesian Village Bungalows We’re less than a year away from the opening of Disney World’s newest hotel, Lakeshore Lodge, which will be home to nearly 1,000 new guest rooms, including the $5,000 two-bedroom Lake House. Stay tuned to DFB for more on this upcoming resort! Whether you’re booking Lakeshore Lodge or another Disney hotel, you’ll still need to plan an itinerary for your trip. Let us help you out! Check out the video below! Disney World Bookings Are OFFICIALLY Open Through The End Of 2027 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you looking forward to checking out the Lakeshore Lodge? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Whoa, woah, whoa, Disney, can you PLEASE explain what was happening at Andy’s Backyard this morning?? Toy Story Land! When we visited Hollywood Studios this morning, it looked like Toy Story Land was in pure CHAOS, so let’s try to figure out exactly what was happening with Andy’s toys. When we first walked in around 45 minutes after the park opened, we saw that Slinky Dog Dash STILL had not opened for the day. And Cast Members were actually standing outside the ride encouraging guests to ride other attractions, which means they likely did not expect it to open any time soon. Slinky Dog Dash at Disney’s Hollywood Studios While a delayed opening is not rare for Slinky Dog Dash, it is always a bummer and can usually make the line longer the rest of the day. Now, not only was Slinky experiencing a very delayed opening, but it also seemed like EVERYONE in the park was trying to meet Woody and Jessie, with their line extending ALL the way back past the entrance to Toy Story Mania. Hi from Woody and Jessie in Hollywood Studios! So, what should you do if you want to visit Toy Story Land in the morning and things get weird and aren’t working out? First of all, while we usually recommend trying to rope drop Slinky Dog, if it’s a priority for your group, it’s important to consider that it does often have a delayed opening. Slinky Dog Dash So, if you get there first thing in the morning and Slinky is closed, we suggest deciding how long you are willing to wait- 10 minutes, 15 minutes, etc. and then moving on to a different ride if it does not open. There is nothing worse than spending all of your rope drop time waiting for a ride that does not open. Rope drop is the time right as the park is opening when the wait times are usually lower. Slinky Dog Dash Also, if you ever see Woody and Jessie, or any other characters, with an extremely long line, then we would suggest coming back at a different time. These characters come out a lot throughout the day; you can find the specific times in the My Disney Experience App, and if the line is very long, it’s likely to be shorter if you check back at a different time. Hi Woody and Jessie! While having a plan is important for a successful day at Disney, it is also equally important to be able to pivot and change the plan as needed since you never know when a ride closure or unusually long line will mess up the plan you had created. Toy Story Land We will continue to keep you informed of all the best tips and tricks for your Disney World vacation, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! Disney Just Quietly Made 3 Changes At Hollywood Studios If you are planning a trip to Disney World, check out the 20 things we do on EVERY trip in the video below! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What is your favorite Hollywood Studios ride? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Is this the ULTIMATE way for Disney fans to shop for souvenirs?! ©Disney If you’re a longtime Disney fan, you may have heard of Mickey’s of Glendale, which is the exclusive merchandise shop located on the Walt Disney Imagineering campus. Often, at D23 events, Mickey’s of Glendale will offer a pop-up shopping opportunity where fans can snag merchandise that you can’t buy anywhere else. But now, you don’t even have to go to D23 to get the chance to shop these rare souvenirs! Mickey’s of Glendale is hosting a pop-up shopping event in Disney World on Sunday, November 15th! This shopping event will be held in the Coronado Ballroom at the Coronado Springs Convention Center and you must be a D23 member or a guest of a D23 member to attend. The Mickey’s of Glendale pop-up at the 2025 Destination D23 event. D23 Gold and D23 general members may reserve tickets for themselves and up to one guest for this event starting Friday, October 23rd at 1 PM ET. Shopping windows are an hour long and run each hour of the day from 9 AM to 5 PM. Each attendee must possess a valid, individual ticket to be admitted, and ticket quantities are limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To get your ticket, you need to log into your D23 account and register each person with their legal first and last name. Government ID may be required for entry for those 18 and older. Mickey’s of Glendale from Destination D23 in 2025 Mickey’s of Glendale often has incredibly long lines when it’s available at D23 events, and some more popular merchandise items sell out. It’s not uncommon for influencers and Disney fans to post hauls of their Mickey’s of Glendale merchandise, and when these pop-up shops were done in the past, we’d even seen folks get a few freebies with their visit. So if the shopping is high priority for you, you may want to aim to get an earlier slot in the day. Mickey’s of Glendale 2021 And for those staying at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort on the day of the event, you’ll want to beware of crowds! You may notice more people in the common areas and at the dining locations, so it’s probably not the ideal day to have your “resort day” for relaxation. Coronado Springs To see other offerings coming soon to Disney World, check out our YouTube video below! Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more news and updates. The Disney World Mistake You’ll Make in November! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you going to Disney World for this shopping event? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Is this about to be our best ALDI haul of the year?! ALDI has the best finds! It’s almost November, which means ALDI is rolling in all of the holiday stuff! From October 28th through November 3rd, check out your local ALDI, because the store is bringing in Christmas decor, Thanksgiving accessories, and a pair of slippers with a turkey on them! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. You know what we like about eating Thanksgiving dinner at home? That you can wear WHATEVER you want, whether it’s a sweater that says “Gobble Gobble” on it or slippers that look like turkeys. There are other sweaters that you can grab at ALDI as well, starting on October 28th. ©ALDI We also thought these Thanksgiving slippers were super cute, with a turkey on one foot and a piece of pie on another. What we love the most is the price. ©ALDI There are Turkey Slippers on Amazon ©Amazon If you don’t have an ALDI near you, don’t worry, because Amazon has Turkey Slippers as well! These slippers have a cute turkey design on the outside and a soft plush feeling on the inside. Don’t your feet feel cozy and warm just by looking at them?! These make for great indoor and outdoor slippers. view ON AMAZON Speaking of Thanksgiving, there are a ton of other accessories you can grab to add to your outfit. From hair clips to headbands to earrings, you’re not going to want to miss out on this. ©ALDI Now, let’s talk about the Christmas items, because there’s never a bad time to talk about Christmas. You can grab different Christmas bedsheet sets, decorated with nutcrackers, holly, reindeer, lights, and more. When it comes to Christmas, how can you not decorate every corner of the house?! ©ALDI There are some more Christmas decorations you can grab, and they’re available at great prices. Grab mini trees, tiny friends… ©ALDI …ceramic light-up pieces, and snowman decor. ©ALDI There are also these Mini Christmas Trees ©Amazon You can also grab these Mini Christmas Trees off of Amazon! They make for great holiday decorations on table tops, desks, and other surfaces around the house. Their colors range from a sparkling white to a pretty pink. The trees are decorated with pearls and offer a fancy holiday aesthetic for your home. They’re also 20% off! view ON AMAZON We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

What started off as an iconic Disney attraction then turned into a series of movies and is now turning into a stage show. Of course, we’re talking about Pirates of the Caribbean. ©Disney Earlier this year, it was announced that Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl would be turning into an immersive theatrical experience called “Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: The Immersive Adventure”. We had some details on what the show is going to feature, and now we finally have news on the cast, including who will be playing the iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow! According to Variety, Olivier Award winner George Maguire will be playing Captain Jack Sparrow in the London stage production from Secret Cinema and TodayTix, “Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: The Immersive Adventure”. It will be fun to see if you can capture that Jack Sparrow charm, and how he portrays his own unique version of the beloved character. ©Secret Cinema Joining him will be Phil Daniels, who will play Captain Barbossa. Phil Daniels is known for his work in “Quadrophenia,” “EastEnders” and Blur’s “Parklife.” Then there’s Lily Blunsom, who will be playing Elizabeth Swann, and Harrison Wilde, who will play Will Turner. The last of the casting announcements included Gleanne Purcell-Brown as Anamaria. More of the cast will be named later. ©Disney The show will be directed by Matt Costain, who is also an Olivier Award winner. Previews will begin February 16th, with the show officially opening on March 10th at Secret Cinema’s new riverside venue on the Greenwich Peninsula in London. According to Variety, “the production is the first at the site, which the company plans to keep as its home. Strong demand has led the producers to add six weeks to the run.” So, what was supposed to be a 10-week run will be even longer! This is no surprise based on how people are reacting online. Many are excited to see George Maguire back on stage, and are anxious to see someone besides Johnny Depp step into the role of Jack Sparrow. We don’t blame them; it’s one of the most iconic characters! ©Disney What makes this show so unique is its live storytelling. Instead of screening all of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, the production uses selected clips from the film alongside large set pieces. Audiences will be able to roam the sets, meet characters, and take part in the story over the course of two hours. The show will also feature stunts and a live band. “We’ve taken everything Secret Cinema does best and pushed it further than ever before, creating a new kind of theatrical experience where the story doesn’t just happen in front of you – it happens all around you,” said Secret Cinema’s artistic director and producer and president and co-founder of TodayTix Group, Merritt Baer. “This is exactly the kind of show we’ve been building towards and opening it in our new home at Greenwich Peninsula makes it even more exciting.” Pirates of the Carribean We’re really excited to see what this will become, and it looks like a trip to London in 2027 will be on our bucket list. For more Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog. Former Disney CEO Bob Iger Comments on Retirement and New Gig as Lakers Owner Looking for more Disney news? Check out the video below! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you interested in the Pirates stage show? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Yes, Disney World food is expensive, but have you ever eaten at the AIRPORT?! Orlando International Airport Our team here at DFB does quite a bit of traveling, and we’ve had our fair share of experiences with airport pricing. Particularly with the ridiculously high cost of food when you get past security. Today, we’re breaking down some of the priciest airport breakfasts we’ve had and sharing some of our recommendations if you find yourself trapped and hungry! Some of the Pricey Meals We’ve Had I reached out to our team to see what their experiences were with pricey airport food. One of our editors said she and her husband had a delayed flight at Chicago Midway International Airport once where they sat down at a table-service restaurant to grab a meal, and there were no prices on the menu. MISTAKE. The mimosa her husband ordered? It was a whopping $28! That almost brings tears to my eyes (and not the good tears). Orlando International Airport Another coworker shared that she recently went to Starbucks at the Detroit Metro Airport and had a startling bill. She picked up a Venti iced drink, a Rice Krispie treat, and a slice of lemon loaf, and her total was nearly $25! That’s a shocking price for a breakfast/snack order for one person. Another person on our team seconded this by saying she paid over $9 for a Grande shaken espresso at their airport Starbucks. Gotta’ have our Starbucks One of our writers shared that she ordered pizza for brunch the last time she was in the San Francisco International Airport, and for one single large slice, she paid $15. No sides, no drinks, just a slice of pizza. That’s wild! Some of Our Go-To Breakfasts at the Orlando Airport Most of the time, our team’s home airport is MCO, the Orlando International Airport. We fly in and out of here quite a bit going to and from Disney World, and a decent portion of our team lives in the Orlando area. So here are our recommendations for breakfast in MCO! These are either going to be your budget-friendly options or the food that we think is truly worth the price. Orlando Airport If you’re in the area near the Hyatt Regency, you can stop by McCoy’s Bar and Grill. It’s located on the lobby level of MCO and offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet for $23.95 per person. It includes coffee, juice, and cage-free eggs made to order. There are also a variety of individually priced entrees on the menu that give those Starbucks prices a run for their money. ©Hyatt Regency And if you missed checking out Summer House on the Lake during your visit to Disney World, you can try out the Summer House location in Terminal C on your way out of town! They don’t list their breakfast menu online, but when we last visited, they were offering breakfast until 10 AM daily. The prices were shockingly affordable for airport food, particularly in a sit-down space. See Our Visit to Summer House at the Airport Here! Summer House Speaking of restaurants we know and love, Chef Art Smith (of Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ in Disney Springs) has a restaurant at Terminal C in MCO! Sunshine Diner serves all-day breakfast in a bright and charming atmosphere. Now, the prices here aren’t as low, but since it’s an Art Smith restaurant, you can be assured that the food quality is top-tier. Peek Inside the Restaurant Here! Sunshine Diner In a similar vein, Wine Bar George has an Orlando Airport location that offers a menu of three breakfast items. The Breakfast Sandwich is fairly affordable for airport eats ($12.50), or you could go a little pricier and get the panini ($15.50) or the Smoked Salmon Bagel ($17.50). Wine Bar George is another spot where we feel confident the food will be delicious. Wine Bar George at Terminal C Besides these locations, there are some popular chain restaurants that serve breakfast in the airport, including McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A. One thing our team has noticed on repeat airport visits is that you can sometimes find cheaper food BEFORE you go through security, so make sure to check out the main MCO food court and grab breakfast there if budget is a factor. MCO TSA PreCheck You should be prepared to spend a bit more on food at the airport, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. We recommend traveling with snacks, avoiding the overpriced mini-shops, and checking out the options ahead of time on MCO’s website. For more travel tips and budgeting advice, subscribe to our newsletter. And for some tips on how to improve your Disney World trip, watch the YouTube video below! Stay tuned to DFB for more! What to Do When Everything Falls Apart Before Airport Security Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s the most you’ve spent on food in an airport? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Heading on vacation soon? There are new travel advisories you should be aware of! Orlando International Airport Travel advisories are put out by the U.S. Department of State, and they typically issue warnings for areas that could be unsafe for Americans to visit. These advisories also include precautions to take when going out of the country. In the past week, some new locations have been added to the travel advisory list, so let’s take a look. You can find this list and the corresponding map under the Travel Advisories section of the U.S. Department of State website. There, you can sort alphabetically, by location, or by level of advisory. There are four levels available, with Level 1 being “exercise normal precautions” and Level 4 coming to “do not travel.” ©U.S. Department of State On October 21st, France was added to the list, given a Level 2 designation of “exercise increased caution” due to unrest and terrorism. China was also given a Level 2 designation on October 19th with “wrongful detention” as a risk indicator for Americans. Charles de Gaulle Airport in France As of October 19th, Kenya was designated a Level 3, which recommends you reconsider travel. The many risk factors in Kenya include crime, unrest, health-related issues, kidnappings, and terrorism. Its next-door neighbor, Tanzania, was given a Level 2 for some of the same risk factors. ©U.S. Department of State Then, back on October 12th, Saudi Arabia was upgraded to a Level 3. The government website states: “Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to risk of drone and missile targeting of American interests by Iran and the Iranian-supported Houthis, armed conflict, terrorism, exit bans, and local laws regarding social media activity. Some areas have increased risk.” Be careful with your travel plans! If you’re traveling abroad soon, particularly to one of the locations on the list, make sure to check out the Department of State’s website for additional information on safety precautions, how to avoid scams, and high-risk area news. This is especially relevant to Disney fans traveling abroad to visit Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disneyland. These travel advisories are reviewed on a regular basis, with Level 1 and 2 designations being reviewed every 12 months and Level 3 and 4 designations getting reviewed on a six-month basis. Castle of Magical Dreams at Hong Kong Disneyland in China We’ll keep you updated if there are more travel advisories added to the list, and we’ll share any new travel safety tips we come across to make your vacation as smooth as possible. A Popular TSA Program Just Ended at Over 100 Aiports Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW View the full article

If you’re heading to Disney World this weekend, grab your coffee and read this before you hit the road! The 2026 Wine & Dine Half Marathon is taking over the parks this weekend, which means thousands of runners will be racing through the parks, and some of your usual routes are going to look a little different. Road closures at Disney World Don’t worry, though! We’ve rounded up everything you need to know about which roads are affected, when they’ll close, and how to get around. Whether you’re running the race, cheering from the sidelines, or just trying to get to Magic Kingdom for rope drop, a little planning goes a long way. You’re going to need to do a little extra planning if you’ll be driving around Disney World this weekend, as the Wine & Dine Half Marathon will cause road closures throughout the resort on both race days — Saturday, October 24th and Sunday, October 25th. ©Disney We’ve rounded up the full list of closures you need to know about, which are primarily in place from 3 AM to 9 AM on Saturday, October 24th: Backstage Lane at Red Lot Entrance: 3 AM – 8 AM Epcot Parking Exit Loops to Epcot Center Drive East: 3 AM – 7:30 AM Overpass Road West at Bonnet Creek: 3 AM – 9 AM Woodpecker Lane (Yellow Lot): 3 AM – 9 AM Crush Lot Exit Bridge to Epcot Center Drive East: 3:30 AM – 7:30 AM World Drive South Ramp to Epcot Center Drive East: 3:45 AM – 7:30 AM Epcot Center Drive West to Epcot Auto Plaza: 4:15 AM – 7:30 AM Epcot Center Drive West (Bonnet Creek to World Drive): 4:15 AM – 7:30 AM ©Disney On Sunday, October 25th, the Half Marathon will cause road closures that are scheduled to clear between 9 AM and 10:30 AM: Backstage Lane North at Red Lot Entrance: 3 AM – 8 AM Epcot Parking Exit Loops to Epcot Center Drive East: 3 AM – 7 AM Overpass Road West at Bonnet Creek: 3 AM – 10:30 AM Woodpecker Lane (Yellow Lot): 3 AM – 10:30 AM Crush Lot Exit Bridge to Epcot Center Drive East: 3:30 AM – 10 AM Epcot Center Drive West Ramp to World Drive South: 3:45 AM – 9:30 AM Floridian Way South at Bear Island Road Exit Ramp: 3:45 AM – 9:30 AM Vista Boulevard Ramp to World Drive South: 3:45 AM – 9:30 AM World Drive South Ramp to Epcot Center Drive East: 3:45 AM – 10 AM World Drive South Flyover Ramp: 3:45 AM – 9:30 AM World Drive South to Osceola Parkway: 3:45 AM – 9:30 AM Buena Vista Drive East (Osceola Parkway to Cypress Drive): 4 AM – 9:30 AM Buena Vista Drive West Ramp to World Drive South: 4 AM – 9:30 AM Osceola Parkway West Ramp to Buena Vista Drive East: 4 AM – 9:30 AM World Drive North Ramp to Buena Vista Drive: 4 AM – 9 AM Epcot Center Drive West (Vacation Club Way to World Drive): 4:30 AM – 9 AM ©Disney Race weekend transportation runs to EPCOT from 2:30 AM – 5:00 AM, and returns from EPCOT to the resorts from 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM. Race weekend information Keep in mind that if you’re heading to the parks this weekend and aren’t participating in any races, you’ll still have to deal with an influx of people — which means crowds and wait times will also likely be much higher throughout the parks this weekend as well. A banner and all We’ll be on the lookout for more Disney World updates you need to know about and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more — and check out our video on upcoming changes in 2027 below! Check out more Disney World news at the links below! Don’t Buy the Disney Dining Plan Unless You Fit One of These 4 CategoriesThe 5 Weirdest Days of the Year in EPCOT Are Almost Here2 More Permanent Closures Hit Disney WorldA NEW (And Rare) Resident Just Moved Into Animal Kingdom and We Are FREAKING Out About Her6 Things Your Disney World Bartender Wants To Tell You But Won’t Cause They’re Too Nice Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you heading to Disney World this weekend? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

So, what’s the deal with the Disney Dining Plan these days? Seemingly everyone online says something different, and it can get confusing quick! Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Cornflake Breaded Fried Chicken and Waffle The question of whether or not to get the Disney Dining Plan is one of the most debated amongst those planning a Disney World vacation. Debates often rage about whether the plans are “worth” it, etc. However, the truth is that there’s no “right” answer across the board. Rather, it depends on what your Disney dining priorities are. Let’s run down the Disney Dining Plan options available for 2027 bookings, as there’s been a big change. There’s the Quick Service Dining Plan, which offers members of the party ages 3 and up: 2 Quick-Service Meals Per Night of Stay 1 Snack or Non-alcoholic Beverage Per Night of Stay 1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug The Quick Service Dining Plan will cost $62.78 per adult per night (ages 10 and up) and $25.82 per child per night (ages 3 to 9) in 2027. Maple Mustard Chicken Strips The traditional Disney Dining Plan offers “classic dining options at both quick-service and table-service restaurants,” as everyone in the party ages 3 and up receives: 1 Quick-Service Meal Per Night of Stay 1 Table-Service Meal Per Night of Stay 1 Snack or Non-alcoholic Beverage Per Night of Stay 1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug This plan will cost: $99.87 per adult per night (ages 10 and up) and $31.94 per child per night (ages 3 to 9) in 2027. Next year, the plan will be renamed the Table-Service Dining Plan. A Sampling of Mom’s Favorite Recipes 2027 will also see the introduction of the new Disney Deluxe Table-Service Dining Plan, which will include: Two table service entrées, dessert (lunch and dinner only), OR full buffet. Guests under 21 years of age can choose one non-alcoholic beverage with their Quick Service and Table Service meal (including specialty beverages for guests 10 years old and over — i.e., Artisanal Milk Shakes, Fresh Smoothies, Premium Hot Chocolates, or Soda, Coffee, or Tea — where offered). Guests 21 and older can choose either one non-alcoholic beverage (including specialty beverages where offered) or one single-serving mixed cocktail, beer, or wine (where offered) within their meal entitlement. One quick service meal, including entrée OR combo meal One snack/nonalcoholic drink One Resort refillable drink mug per person, per package Oysters Rockefeller The new plan will cost $163.01 per adult per night (ages 10 and up) and $46.85 per child per night (ages 3 to 9). Now that we’re clear on the Dining Plan offers, should you get it? Well, do you fit into the following categories? You Want to Have All Your Dining Costs Squared Away BEFORE Your Trip Arguably the biggest benefit for many who purchase the Dining Plan is the fact that their food is already “paid for” before their trip. No need to worry about going over budget or counting dollars and cents at Disney World. It’s all dealt with, and you don’t have to stress about it during every meal. Just remember gratuities are NOT included. Dry-Aged Duroc Pork Chop You Pour Over Menus and Choose Your Meals BEFORE Heading to Restaurants Speaking of pre-trip convenience, knowing exactly what you’ll be able to eat on each day of your trip will allow those who prefer to plan their meals beforehand to do so. You can look over menus beforehand and choose pretty much everything before even stepping foot in Disney World if you so choose. Of course, those who prefer a bit more spontaneity in their dining may not want to do that. Rigatoni alla Vodka You Predictably Like to Eat Roughly the Same Amount of Food Every Day If you’re the kind of person who consistently eats the same amount of food each day — three meals, a stable snack, etc. — then the plan will likely be a good option for you. However, if you tend to indulge more on certain days or skip breakfast on others, the plan may not be as “worth” it for you. Maple Popcorn! You’re a Fan of Disney World’s Cocktails or Specialty Drinks Alcoholic beverages — as well as specialty beverages such as milkshakes, smoothies, and various “mocktails” — are available as part of the new Disney Deluxe Table Service Dining Plan. If you’re hoping to get the best bang for your buck, this Dining Plan may be for you! Sake-Politan Cocktail Choosing the best Disney Dining Plan option — or even adding the option at all — depends on what your priorities and preferences are. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney tips! What else do you want to know about visiting Disney World? We can help you with ANY question you may have in the video below! Never Book a Disney World Trip Without Clicking This Button Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What are your thoughts on the Disney Dining Plan? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Picture this: the sun is warming the deck, a tropical breeze is floating by, and somewhere nearby a chef is pulling a tray of golden, crispy chicken tendies from the fryer. Now picture millions of other Americans doing the exact same thing. That’s not a daydream. It’s shaping up to be the biggest year for cruising yet. Disney Magic Cruise Ship According to the latest travel forecasts, a record-setting number of Americans are expected to hit the high seas in 2027, and honestly, we get it. Where else can you wake up in one port, snack your way through a second, and fall asleep dreaming about the third? It’s the ultimate all-you-can-nibble adventure, and everybody wants a seat at the table. According to AAA, more than 22 million Americans — 22.4 million — are predicted to go on cruises in 2027. This marks the fifth consecutive year that a record number of people will set sail on ocean cruises, and a 3.6% increase over 2026. More travelers are reportedly turning to cruising for its convenience, value, and variety. Quiet Cove “Cruising offers a unique type of vacation because you unpack once and visit multiple destinations with meals and entertainment included,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “The key is finding the right cruise that meets your needs, and that’s where travel agents come in. Working with an advisor ensures you’re booking a ship with amenities and activities that fit your interests and lifestyle.” The Disney Fantasy AAA reports that cruise demand in the U.S. has been rising since 2023, when it surpassed pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, 14.2 million Americans went on cruises, and that number is projected to increase by 57% in 2027, to 22.4 million. Travelers are prioritizing shared experiences with family and friends, and many like knowing how much a vacation will cost before the trip even starts. Since cruises are typically an all-in-one price, this makes them the perfect vacation for that. Disney Magic Additionally, over 90% of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experiences as good or very good, which is why the industry has strong repeat business, with 93% of travelers booking again. Shorter cruises are becoming more popular, especially for people who can’t take off an entire week of work, school, or other obligations. While 7-night cruises are still the most popular, more Americans are booking cruises that are shorter in length. Captain Minnie and Daisy In 2025, 45% of U.S. passengers booked itineraries of 6 nights or less, compared to 2019 when 39% did the same. Travelers are looking for a quick getaway, so they book shorter cruises without having to take too much time away from daily routines and responsibilities. Working with travel agents can often be the best way to book cruises, since there are so many itineraries and destinations to choose from. They can often make sure you’re getting the best deal as well! Disney Cruise Line We’ll be on the lookout for more cruise news you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest travel updates — and check out our video on the Disney Cruise Line below! Check out more cruise news at the links below! Your 2027 Cruise Is About To Be A LOT More CrowdedBREAKING: Disney Announces BOOKING DATE for New Believe Cruise ShipFIRST LOOK At Construction on A Popular Cruise Line’s New ShipI’ve Done Both: Here’s Why I Choose a Family Cruise Over Disney World Every TimeThe ONE THING Every Disney Fan Wanted To Know About The Believe Cruise Ship Has Been Revealed! If you’re looking for help planning your next Disney cruise or Disney vacation, our friends at Small World Vacations are the best of the best! They can help you plan your entire Disney vacation from beginning to end and make sure you’re getting the absolute best deals, which can save you a TON of money. Make sure you check them out if you’re planning an upcoming Disney vacation! DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Are you planning on cruising in 2027? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Something sneaky is happening over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park! Disney’s Animal Kingdom Here at DFB, we keep in the loop with all the scheduled happenings in the Disney World parks, and we’ve already got quite a bit of information about what’s going on this holiday season. But a surprising schedule change has us wondering if Disney is keeping something under wraps! One of the best perks of working in Disney World is that you get free admission to the parks. However, Cast Members’ tickets are subject to blockout dates just like some of the levels of Disney World Annual Passes. Typically, there are more blockout dates during busier times of year, but this year, something is off in Animal Kingdom. We LOVE Cast Members! In past years, Animal Kingdom has been the easiest park for Cast Members to visit during the holiday season, but in 2026, the blockout dates are STRICT. Cast Members are blocked from the parks on the following dates: Magic Kingdom: November 10th, 11th, 23rd, 26th, December 18th-31st, January 1st-2nd Disney’s Animal Kingdom: December 20th-31st, January 1st-2nd EPCOT: December 8th, 9th, 13th, 14th, 22nd, 23rd, 31st Disney’s Hollywood Studios: December 28th-30th Expedition Everest The blockout dates for Animal Kingdom last for two weeks straight, which has us wondering — is there something special happening at Animal Kingdom this holiday season that Disney hasn’t announced yet? Something that Disney expects will be very popular and draw large crowds?! So far, only the typical holiday celebrations for that park have been announced, so we’ll have to wait and see. Pandora Celebrations that we already know are happening at Animal Kingdom include the return of the Merry Menagerie, adorable animal-themed puppets that roam Discovery Island with live music. These are a big hit with the kiddos each year! And if you’re in Discovery Island at night, don’t forget to check out the holiday-themed Tree of Life Awakenings — the projections are simply stunning. Polar Bear Merry Menagerie puppets Also, you’ll be able not only to meet Mickey and Minnie in their holiday outfits at Adventurers Outpost, but Santa Claus is coming back to town! He’ll be meeting across from Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond! inside Santa’s Holiday Grove. It’s going to be a “magical trail with intermittent snow flurries.” They’ll even have specialty food and beverage available! Santa Claus at Animal Kingdom in 2024 Of course, we’ll be on the lookout for any more news about offerings coming for the holidays. We’re just a few weeks away from the season starting in Disney World, which means we’ll be seeing decorations, special snacks, and holly jolly vibes EVERYWHERE. Animal Kingdom Christmas tree Heading to Animal kingdom soon? Check out our breakdown of the rides and attractions in this park on YouTube! For more tips and Disney news, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media! Learn All About the Holidays in Disney World Here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you going to Animal Kingdom this holiday season? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

We’re really exposing the DFB team here today! Where’s the crowd? Because these are the things that we ALWAYS do in Disney World – ranging from solid pro-planning advice to…some honestly embarrassing confessions. Check out our new video: 20 Things We Always Do on Every Disney World Trip Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What video do you want to see from DFB next? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We still can’t believe how fast the year has gone by! The holidays are just around the corner, which means big changes are coming to Disney World, with MAJOR ones coming to EPCOT. EPCOT We are still enjoying eating and drinking everything that EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival has to offer, but the clock is ticking, and the festival is almost over. Once it ends, EPCOT will enter a very short period with no festival, before the park gets its final change of the year. So, what can we expect? It feels like yesterday that we were rope-dropping EPCOT, ready to run around the World Showcase to try all of the new eats and beverages that the Food and Wine Festival was bringing. Now, we only have one month left to enjoy the festival before it ends on November 21st. So, we have one month left to enjoy the food booths, the cheese crawl, and eat to the beat. 2026 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Once the Food and Wine Festival comes to an end, there will be a five-day period where there is no festival going on. Which, if you ask us, is the strangest time to be at EPCOT. It’s like a weird lull period, where you wait from one festival to the next. Also, since the switch happens so quickly, you may see a mash-up of Food & Wine and holiday decor around the park and it’s like a fever dream. After that short period, the sleigh bells start to ring, the Christmas music comes on, and EPCOT sees arguably its biggest change of the year. Of course, we’re talking about EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays, which officially begins on November 27th and goes through December 30th. The Festival of the Holidays in 2025! If you were to tell us that the Festival of the Holidays is your favorite EPCOT festival of the year, we wouldn’t be surprised. It brings festival kitchen booths around the park, holiday storytellers in the pavilions around World Showcase, a cookie stroll, gorgeous Christmas decorations, and holiday music to listen to all day long. 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Holidays Passport What may be our favorite part of the festival is the Candlelight Processional, which has a celebrity narrator retell the Christmas story. They’re accompanied by a 51-piece orchestra, the Voices of Liberty, and a choir. It’s an absolute must-do when you’re at the festival! Candlelight Processional There are also ride overlays that are coming to EPCOT on November 27th as well! Living with the Land becomes Glimmering Greenhouses, which essentially sees tons of Christmas lights and decorations added to the attraction. It’s an absolute must-do at night — trust us! Glimmering Greenhouses If you hadn’t heard, that’s not the only attraction that’s changing next month, as Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will also be getting a holiday overlay! The changes for this ride actually begin on November 25th, 2026, and will stay until January 6th, 2027. The overlay will see three holiday songs replace the regular soundtrack. The songs include: “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra 8 “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses ©Disney The park is going to look and feel completely different in one month, and as much as we love the Food and Wine Festival, we seriously can’t wait for the holiday transformation. We’re here to make sure you’re always prepared for your Disney World vacation, so make sure to keep following us at the Disney Food Blog! 2 More Permanent Closures Hit Disney World What other news should you check up on at Disney World? Check out the video below! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited for the holidays at EPCOT? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

2026 has already brought major changes to Disney World. Rides have closed and been replaced, construction has dominated the landscape, and we even learned that a new Yeti is FINALLY on the way to Expedition Everest. BoardWalk Now, with the end of the year in sight, two more permanent closures have hit the “Most Magical Place on Earth” before the calendar turns to 2027. Let’s take a look at the places you unfortunately won’t ever be able to experience again. Sunshine Churros Located at Disney Springs, Sunshine Churros was known for a unique twist on the iconic dessert, including churros topped with Pop Rocks, Dubai chocolate, and other flavor combinations. Many of these were part of the rotating Churro of the Month promotion. The two Disney Springs locations both closed on September 5th. Liberty Pop Churro Atlantic Dance Hall The BoardWalk saw the major opening of the Hurly-Burly Lounge in 2026, finally filling the gap left by Jellyrolls’ closure. However, the hotel also lost one of its longest-lasting locations. The Atlantic Dance Hall had long been a favorite of night owls at Disney World, as the hall often stayed open late into the night playing popular dance music. However, the venue closed on September 27th. As of October 1st, the venue became home to private events through Disney Meetings & Events and Disney Fairy Tale Weddings. Atlantic Dance Hall As mentioned, these closures are just two of several that hit Disney World this year. Other major ones have included: The Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, which first opened at the then Disney-MGM Studios in 1999, was beloved by fans for nearly three decades before it closed in March. The ride closed forever to make way for… the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, which is the same ride track, but now with Muppet theming and animatronics in the queue, and a soundtrack of Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem performing tracks from Def Leppard, Blur, Steppenwolf, Ohio Players, and Katrina and the Waves. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith Carousel of Progress — which has been operating in one form or another since its debut at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, meaning it actually predates Disney World by over a decade — closed for a major refurbishment that will shift nearly everything about the 60+-year-old attraction, essentially permanently closing the version of the attraction as we knew it. The new version will attempt to keep the show “relatable for today’s audiences”; the whole show is being restructured. The show will now feature a Walt Disney animatronic in the pre-show, followed by new acts based on the 1960s (itself harkening back to the decade the show originally debuted), the 1980s, the 1999-turn of the millennium, and a “possible future” that will imagine a time where “extraordinary innovation has become part of life and proves that a beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.” The new take on the classic show is scheduled to reopen in the spring of 2027. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress DINOSAUR, permanently closed in February. The opening day Animal Kingdom attraction — which was known as Countdown to Extinction in 1998 — was shuttered as part of the Tropical Americas expansion. It’s being refurbished into Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent, which will be set in the 1950’s in a South American temple where Indy finds a passageway that leads to the Mayan underworld. This is arguably a fitting full-circle moment given that the ride system and layout of DINOSAUR was essentially a clone of Disneyland’s Indiana Jones Adventure. DINOSAUR is gone, y’all In addition to those attractions, several retail locations at Disney Springs have closed this year, including clothing store Shore, cupcake location Sprinkles, and fashion retailer Francesca’s. Sprinkles Cupcakes is closed 2026 has seen a series of major closures at Disney World, with Sunshine Churros and Atlantic Dance Hall joining the ranks in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney World’s evolution. Speaking of major changes at Disney World, what exactly is going on with alcohol at Disney World? Check it out in the video below! “As Long as It’s Moving, That’s a Fix.” Joe Rohde Shares Thoughts on Yeti at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these closed attractions or locations do you miss most? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Disney Cruise Line provides unique opportunities designed to equip and prepare the next generation of Bahamian leaders. Aspiring culinary and maritime professionals from the University of the Bahamas and LJM Maritime Academy recently had the chance to step aboard Disney Cruise Line ships for exclusive tours and insights from the crew about careers at sea. From Classroom to Galley: Student Chefs Visit Disney Dream Disney Cruise Line regularly engages students from The University of the Bahamas through a variety of initiatives including the College of Tourism Hospitality, Culinary Arts and Leisure Management (The CALM), which works to inspire the next generation of chefs. Since 2019, Disney Cruise Line has hosted culinary students to learn first-hand about the culinary industry from Disney Cruise Line executive chefs and culinary leaders though in-depth career conversations and behind the scenes galley tours onboard its ships. In celebration of the University of The Bahamas Culinary Week, students recently had the opportunity to speak with Chef Andras and Chef Kamben aboard the Disney Dream where they learned more about all the possibilities of culinary careers at sea. As part of the culinary students’ shipboard experience, they participated in Disney Cruise Line’s “Anyone Can Cook” demonstration led by Chef Khemraj and Chef Antoine, where they observed the preparation of a signature dish, learned professional cooking techniques and engaged with a Disney chef to gain insights into the culinary world at sea. “University of The Bahamas is deeply grateful to Disney Cruise Line,” said Dean Mario Adderly, College of Tourism, Hospitality, Culinary Arts & Leisure Management (The CALM). “For a number of years, in addition to other areas of support, Disney Cruise Line has been a major sponsor of The CALM Week at University of The Bahamas. A beloved highlight of this support is a ship tour for our students. The opportunity allows University of The Bahamas students to see the workings of front of house, back of house and food and beverage operations in real time. This collaboration helps bring classroom learning to life and gives our students invaluable insight into the dynamic careers that await them in the culinary and hospitality industries.” Future Mariners Explore Careers at Sea Through a strong relationship with LJM Maritime Academy, Disney Cruise Line supports scholarships and summer programming, which includes welcoming students aboard the fleet to learn about maritime careers and shipboard operations. Recently, 38 LJM Maritime Academy cadets stepped aboard the Disney Destiny for a ship tour that included meeting with the Engineering Officer for a tour of the ship’s engine room and a visit to the bridge for insight into ship navigation and steering. The tour concluded with a special surprise guest from Captain Mickey Mouse. Pathways for Learning: From Disney Cruise Line’s Workforce Investments to Creating Magic at Disney Parks Through collaboration with Bahamian educational institutions, Disney Cruise Line continues to support workforce development across The Bahamas, fostering career pathways and supporting the growth of future leaders and professionals. Disney Cruise Line also works with the University of The Bahamas by investing in the Leading Light Programme, which provides hospitality, management and job-readiness courses at no cost to participants. Initially launched in Eleuthera in 2024, the Leading Light Programme has now expanded to include students in Abaco, reinforcing Disney Cruise Line’s broader commitment to long-term skills development and employment readiness in The Bahamas. Disney Cruise Line Manager HR Bahamas, Leslie Lopez, plays a key role in bringing these programs to life. “As a Bahamian myself, I understand the meaning of the opportunities provided by Disney to support the career paths of young people in The Bahamas,” shared Leslie. “Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to introducing young professionals from our islands to the hospitality and maritime industries has been incredibly impactful.” Lopez also played a key role in bringing the first-ever group of Bahamian students to participate in a Disney Program at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Disney Programs provide students and recent graduates with the opportunity for professional and leadership development through Disney’s renowned learning and internship programs, helping prepare the next generation of future careers in hospitality, tourism and beyond. The Bahamian students gained experience in roles across Walt Disney World Parks & Resorts, including food and beverage, custodial and merchandise. Beyond their roles and day-to-day work, the students connected with cast members and guests from around the world, participated in seminars featuring Disney leaders, gave back through Disney VoluntEARS, explored local Florida highlights and even toured the Disney Cruise Line’s ship, Disney Wish. Creating Lasting Impact in The Bahamas Since 1998, Disney Cruise Line has been committed to serving the port communities in which it sails around the world, including The Bahamas. While introducing countless families to the vibrant culture and natural beauty of The Bahamas, Disney Cruise Line prioritizes making meaningful community impact through a range of education, youth and local initiatives, reflecting long-term efforts making a positive impact across the islands that strengthens community connections and creates opportunities. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line news and community initiatives in The Bahamas, visit DisneyExperiences.com or Disney Cruise Line Crew & Community on Facebook. The post Disney Cruise Line Continues to Inspire the Next Generation of Bahamian Leaders appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

It’s been more than six months since Bob Iger stepped down as Walt Disney Company CEO, a job he held for nearly two decades. Though this isn’t the first time Iger has stepped down as CEO, it does seem like this time, it’s actually going to stick. ©Disney Iger had been with Disney since 1996, when ABC was acquired by the House of Mouse, and he was instrumental in much of the company’s growth and various acquisitions throughout his tenure. In a new interview with ABC News’ Robin Roberts, Iger shed some light on his newly retired — if you can even call it that — life and his legacy at Disney. Bob Iger recently sat down with Robin Roberts to talk about life after Disney and said his “life today brings a welcomed change of pace.” “It’s definitely different. The days are quieter,” he shared. “Life is in a way smaller in many respects, and I like that.” Iger led Disney’s acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, and he also spearheaded the launch of the Disney+ streaming service. His contributions to the company have already had lasting impacts that will be felt for years to come. ©Disney Roberts asked him what he considers to be his greatest accomplishment at Disney, and Iger expressed pride in maintaining the legacy of the company. “To have the opportunity not just to run the company like that, but to have the opportunity to grow the company and to strengthen the company and to hand it off to a successor, in a very healthy state, for instance, certainly, I think that would be up there,” he said. “That you know, I did no harm. In fact, I think I actually did some good.” He also said, “In addition to that, through the years of running the company, having the opportunity to bring joy to the world, to entertain the world, was extraordinary, and that’s a nice legacy to leave.” ©Disney When reflecting on things he would have changed about his tenure, Iger said he doesn’t spend much of his time “second-guessing.” “I’ve always tried to learn from the mistakes that I made. It turned out pretty well, so I probably wouldn’t want to do anything differently,” Iger said. “Obviously, if I could go back and say, ‘Well, why didn’t we make that movie?’ or, ‘Could have been better,’ there are a bunch of those. But you don’t really have that luxury.” ©Disney In his retirement, Iger is a new co-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers with Josh Kushner, brother of President Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. About his new gig, Iger said, “We really believe in today’s world in the value of convening people to have great experiences, and sports does that. We know that,” adding that his role with the Lakers is still to be determined. “People love to experience things together, and, you know, the Lakers are an incredible brand.” ©Disney He’s also continuing to promote causes close to his heart, and next week, he’ll be honored as the 2026 PAC NYC Icon of Culture at the third annual PAC NYC Icons of Culture Gala. “I’m receiving this award, in a way, as a means of recognizing the importance of culture in our world today, particularly the importance of art and culture,” Iger said. “I’m humbled by the fact that I’m getting the award, but it’s wonderful to be able to accept it as a means of helping this great organization and this great place.” He said that he continues to see the importance of arts and culture in bringing joy to people, just like he did at Disney. ©Disney We’ll be on the lookout for even more updates from former and current Disney CEOs. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news — and check out our video below on some behind-the-scenes Disney drama! Check out more Disney CEO updates at the links below! DFB Video: Disney’s MAJOR Behind the Scenes Drama“Relentless Sabotage” Sacked Disney CEO Bob Chapek Breaks Silence in New Book: “It Pisses Me Off.”Former Disney CEO, Bob Chapek, Has A New Book Coming Out Next MonthDisney CEO Lays Out Future For Disney+…And It’s Not What You’d ThinkDisney CEO Announces Goals for the Company’s Upcoming Year Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you a Bob Iger fan? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

When it comes to dining at Disneyland, there are so many different options across both of the parks. Everything from quick and easy to upscale and luxurious, you’ll be able to find on your visit. California Adventure We recently stopped by Lamplight Lounge on Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure to check out the menu, and now we’re bringing you our FULL review. Is it worth a stop on your next trip to the Happiest Place on Earth? It’s time to find out! Atmosphere Lamplight Lounge is located on Pixar Pier and celebrates all things Pixar Animation. The outside of the building is very bright and colorful, and the sign actually has Luxo Jr., the Pixar Lamp, on it! Lamplight Lounge Entrance Once you go inside, Pixar details and concept art are everywhere! So much concept art! It covers the walls, and even the Restroom sign is a reference to Up. More details! This whole space is a dream for any Pixar fans, and as you explore, you are just met with more theming and details everywhere you look. We love visiting Lamplight Lounge Although our favorite piece of atmosphere in this space is the concept art chandelier that hangs from the staircase between the first and second floor, it is just beautiful to look at! Concept Art Chandelier But enough about the restaurant — what’s on the menu here?! Menu Now let’s take a look at the lunch and dinner menu at Lamplight Lounge. This spot also serves brunch, but today we are focused on trying the lunch and dinner offerings, starting with the selection of Seasonal Offerings, Small Bites, and Bigger Bites. ©Disney There is also a selection of Plant-Based options in addition to Disney Check Meals and one kids’ offering. ©Disney There is also a Dessert and Non-Alcoholic Beverages menu. ©Disney We can’t forget about the Cocktails… ©Disney …the selection of Beer, Hard Cider, and Seltzer… ©Disney …and finally a large Wine selection. ©Disney And now, onto the main event — the food! Drinks To drink, we picked up the Scream Canister for $21. This is made with Rum, Cream of coconut, and Pineapple & Orange Juices with Bitters. The Scream Canister This was super tasty and VERY strong! It had a lot of rum, with the cream of coconut as one of the most prominent flavors. This drink was creamy but not too tart, even though there were pineapple and orange juice flavors. We loved this one, and if you enjoy rum-based tropical drinks, this will be right up your alley. The Scream Canister We also got the Secret Menu DOLE Whip Shot for $20.75. This was absolutely delicious! It was classic creamy Dole Whip with a hint of Vanilla that worked together beautifully. It’s been around for years, and we hope it never goes away. It was so fun, and we will be grabbing this again on future visits. Secret Menu Dole Whip Shot Eats First up, we grabbed the Steak Au Poivre for $40. This is a New York Steak cooked to order, served with gravy on top, and a side of Truffle Fries. It’s a special right now, so it won’t be around forever! Steak Au Poivre The steak was a bit on the fattier side, but the marbling really made it taste fantastic. The gravy on top was delicious, with a great peppery taste, and paired well with the truffle fries. The truffle fries were crispy on the outside while soft on the inside, just how you want a french fry to be! The parmesan cheese and garlic flavors complemented the whole dish well. This was a great portion size and something we would try again! Steak Au Poivre We also grabbed the Potato Skins for $18. This is made with Paprika Aïoli, House Ranch, Cheddar, Bacon, Cheese Sauce, and Chives. Potato Skins The flavor here was fantastic, with great smoky notes and a nice crunch. However, this came with cheese that we felt did not blend with the dish; it was creamy, almost like a fancier ballpark nacho cheese, and did not work well with the rest of the textures. We asked for a side of sour cream, which was a great addition. If we ordered this again, we would probably ask for it without the cheese or ask for the cheese on the side so the texture does not get muddled. Potato Skins Finally, for dessert, we tried the Seasonal Donuts for $11. These are a staple here, but when we visited, the seasonal option was Arroz Con Leche Donuts dipped in cinnamon and sugar and topped with Arroz Con Leche and candied walnuts. Arroz Con Leche Donuts These were amazing donuts that were crispy outside and so fluffy on the inside. Plus, the Arroz Con Leche on top added a great flavor and really enhanced the texture even more. These were one of our favorite seasonal donut offerings we have ever tried at Lamplight Lounge! Arroz Con Leche Donuts Nosh or Not This Disneyland restaurant is a must-visit if… You love Pixar. As we mentioned earlier, this spot truly lives and breathes all things Pixar. So, if you love Pixar or just Disney concept art and hidden details, then this should be a must-try on your next trip to Disneyland. You are looking for a fantastic drink. On this visit, we were blown away by the quality and strength of the drinks we tried. So, if you are looking to just grab a drink and enjoy some lovely ambiance on your Disney California day, this would be a great place to visit even if you don’t order any food. You are looking for a more unique menu. Lamplight Lounge is known for having a more elevated and creative menu than what you might typically find around a theme park. The menu items, especially the drinks, are all themed and designed to bring a little Pixar flair to your meal. So, if you and your party love trying new food and want something more fun and unique, this is an incredible spot to visit. You should skip this Disneyland spot if… You are looking to dine on a budget. This is definitely a more expensive dining location with many items that are much pricier than other food you might find around the park. So, if you are looking to feed a big group or want great food at a reasonable price, then this might not be the best place for you to eat on your vacation. You have pickier eaters or kids in your party. As we mentioned before, this menu is more unique, which could make it more difficult if you have a group with pickier eaters. Also, there is only one item available on the kids’ menu, so if your kiddo is not interested in that option or sharing any of the regular menu items, this would not be the best place to eat. You are looking for a quick bite to eat. This is a sit-down lounge-style experience designed for relaxing and enjoying some good food and drinks. But if you want to maximize rides and experiences on your day in Disney California Adventure, then a quick-service spot might be the way to go for your group. Overall We really love taking a visit to Lamplight Lounge! The ambiance and atmosphere are incredible, especially for Pixar lovers, and the drinks really blew us away. While the food we tried this visit was not the best we’ve ever gotten, the Steak Au Poivre was really delicious, and we were impressed by the Seasonal Donut offering. If you love Pixar, great drinks, yummy food, and relaxing while in Disneyland, this spot is worth checking out! Lamplight Lounge In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for more restaurant updates from Disneyland, Disney World, and beyond. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! The Disneyland Food Rule First-Timers ALWAYS Get Wrong Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you eaten at this Disney California Adventure restaurant before? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Disney Programs marked an exciting milestone by welcoming the first group of participants from The Bahamas. Among them was Oneiya Neymour, a marketing student from Andros Island, the largest island in The Bahamas, who spent her summer participating in the program at Walt Disney World Resort. These programs provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for college students to live and work at Walt Disney World Resort while gaining valuable experience with a global company. Participants have the chance to discover a new culture, represent their own and be part of something bigger. We sat down with Oneiya to talk about her unforgettable journey, the unexpected lessons she learned, and what it was like trading her classroom at University of The Bahamas for the heart of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park this summer. Tell us about your program and how it feels to be part of this first group from The Bahamas? Oneiya: My Disney journey has been nothing short of an incredible experience, and I owe so much of that to the amazing people I have been fortunate enough to meet and work alongside. Being part of the first-ever group from The Bahamas made it even more special, and representing my home while learning the ins-and-outs of the Disney magic is something I will always treasure. Where did you spend your summer, and what was it like stepping into your “home” park? Oneiya: No two days were ever the same—some were challenging, some were exciting, and others became memories that I will now carry with me long after this journey ends. From the moment I arrived at my “home” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, I was welcomed by an environment that made my summer internship truly meaningful and rewarding. When you first found out your placement, what were your thoughts on working in the Custodial role? Oneiya: When I found out I would be working in the custodial role, I’ll admit I was not the most enthusiastic about it. However, my perspective changed completely once I began working and experienced first-hand how friendly, supportive, and determined my coordinators and fellow cast members were. Their willingness to help, teach, encourage, and genuinely care about our success made me fall in love with the role — and more importantly, the department. Disney’s Animal Kingdom custodial truly set the bar for what teamwork within an organization can accomplish. I’ve never had a day where I felt alone or as though my work did not matter. Of course, not every experience was perfect, but the good moments far outweighed the difficult ones. Did you have any memorable moments or key takeaways regarding leadership during your time there? Oneiya: One of the moments I will always remember happened on my second day out of training. I had forgotten the location of the Kali River Rapids restroom and ended up cleaning the wrong restroom for an entire day! When I realized my mistake, I informed my coordinator, Zuli, expecting to be reprimanded. Instead, she responded with patience and understanding. She simply grabbed a pan and broom and began helping me clean the correct restroom. That moment taught me something I will never forget: that great leadership is not about standing above your team, it’s about being willing to step into the field and work alongside them. Thank you, Zuli. You set an incredible example of what it means to be a great leader, and I hope to carry that lesson with me wherever I go. Beyond the day-to-day work, what did you enjoy the most about living and working at Walt Disney World Resort? Oneiya: Beyond the work itself, I will miss the friendships I have made along the way. The people who started as co-workers quickly became friends, and those friends eventually became family. I will miss our park days filled with laughter, the shared memories, and the excitement of experiencing the magic together. I will especially miss attractions like TRON Lightcycle Run, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Expedition Everest, and of course, my all-time favorite, Avatar Flight of Passage. What’s next for you as your Disney journey comes to a close? Oneiya: I’m leaving Disney’s Animal Kingdom with more than just memories—I’m leaving with invaluable lessons about leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of having people around you who genuinely want to see you succeed. My Disney program may be coming to an end as I head back to the University of The Bahamas, but the memories, friendships, and lessons I have gained along the way will stay with me forever. I am eternally grateful that I got the opportunity to call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home, and even more grateful for the people who made it feel like one. Students Making Memories Together Each student is bringing their own Disney memories back to their homes in The Bahamas, but the best part was… doing it together! The group made visits to local Orlando hot spots, trying classic foods, shopping, chasing theme park thrills and even took a tour of the Disney Wish. For music education student, Turquoise, his experience working at Walt Disney World Resort allowed him to dream big about the magic he will bring to his future classrooms, through Disney VoluntEARS. And sisters, Bernae and Brianna, decided to jump into their Disney Programs experience as a duo, giving them extra time to bond after Bernae’s graduation! This group, made possible through strong partnership with the Disney International Programs recruitment team and Disney Cruise Line’s work with the University of the Bahamas, is another example of how we can empower Bahamian students to build their bright futures. The students are now back at university, but we can’t wait to have them back as guests, cast, crew or future leaders. Inspired by these students? Learn more about Disney Programs and how you – or someone you know – can make magic and memories working at Walt Disney World, too. Walt Disney World Resort Spring Back to Walt Disney World with Special Offers and Returning Events in 2027 Disneyland Resort Meet a Disney Artist Behind the Pixar Place Hotel Halloween Makeover Walt Disney World Resort How Cast Members Create Halloween Magic at Walt Disney World  The post Disney Programs: Q&A with University of The Bahamas Student appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

There is nothing worse than getting to your Disney World hotel after a long day of travel, only to realize that your room is in the BACK of the resort because you forgot to request the location you wanted. BUT Disney might have actually made it way easier to submit these hotel requests. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort When you are staying at a Disney World hotel, you’ve always been able to contact Disney to make certain requests, but it looks as though that whole process just got way simpler. One of our team members was looking at their upcoming Disney World hotel reservation when they noticed that there were new screens for room requests showing on the My Disney Experience App that are now much more specific. Pop Century When looking at your reservation, you can now select the specific areas of the hotel you would prefer to stay in. In this new system, you can submit up to two requests for your room right in your reservation on the app. This screen will also change depending on the hotel you are staying at. For example, if you are staying at one of the hotels on the Skyliner loop, you’ll be able to request a room close to the Skyliner, etc. ©Disney However, this update gets even better! Because there is another screen that allows you to select a checkbox that says, “Please prioritize having my room ready early over these room requests.” This gives you even more ability to choose exactly what works best for you and your group. So, if you are getting to the resort early, then your biggest priority might be getting access to your room as quick as possible. In that case, you would click that checkbox, and if a room were to pop up earlier in the day but did not meet your requests, you would still be given that room. ©Disney However, if the request, such as floor level or resort location, is very important to you, then you can leave that box blank, so Disney knows to prioritize meeting your requests over getting you a room as quick as possible. Yacht & Beach Club Now, these requests are still not guaranteed, so if you need to be on a specific floor or area of the hotel for a medical reason or accommodation, you can always reach out to Disney or call the resort to help make sure that they are aware of the accommodations you need. Wilderness Lodge This change should also make checking into your hotel easier, since all of your requests will be preset on your reservation, meaning that you do not have to make these requests as you are checking in. BoardWalk Inn Check-In Desk We love that Disney is making the guest experience even easier with this change, and we hope to see more updates like this in the future. We will continue to bring you all the news from Disney World and beyond, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more! We Are Embarrassed To Admit This Disney World Hotel Essential ACTUALLY Works If you want even more information on which Disney World hotel you should stay at on your next vacation, check out the video below! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this update? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

Something new has popped up at Animal Kingdom, and it’s the cutest thing in the world! ©Disney Ever since Bluey’s Wild World opened, all of our visits to Animal Kingdom have included us going to Jumping Junction to check out the wallabies and kangaroos. Well, it looks like we’re going to be visiting it twice as much because a new baby wallaby joey has just appeared, and we can’t stop looking at her! Disney has just introduced us to Quartz, the newest wallaby joey at Jumping Junction! There’s something special about Quartz; can you tell by looking at her? ©Disney Quartz was born with albinism, which gives her a rare appearance and makes her one of a kind at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Albinism is a genetic condition that results in little to no melanin, which is the pigment that gives animals their color. It’s a recessive trait, so an animal must inherit the genetic mutation from both parents. ©Disney Quartz is being taken care of with extra care from Cast Members. Disney said Quartz’s unique needs are closely monitored and supported. So far, it’s resulting in a happy and healthy joey! ©Disney We went to Animal Kingdom to see if we could find the baby, but Quartz and the mama were hiding while we were there. A Cast Member said that he’s only seen a glimpse of Quartz once because mama is keeping her deep in her pouch. Some of the Cast Members haven’t even seen her yet. ©Disney We talked to another Cast Member who said that she likes to hide and sleep in the afternoon, as most mamas with a little one would love to do. We heard that she is more active very early in the morning, around 6:30 AM, and that’s when they really get to see Quartz. Quartz almost glows in the dark when it’s that early in the morning. Jumping Junction Jumping Junction is located in Bluey’s Wild World, which has taken over what used to be Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Next time you’re at Animal Kingdom, try your luck at Jumping Junction to see if you can find baby Quartz. For more Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog! Why We’re Running to Magic Kingdom on November 10th Want to know what else is happening at Disney World? Check out this video! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW How long until you go to see this cutie? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Holiday shopping is in full swing, and Amazon has released the top 100 toys of the season! While digging through the list, we found some of the best Disney finds that you don’t want to miss. ©Amazon From Tonies to LEGO sets, Bluey and more, we got it all right here! If you’re shopping for toys this season, we know exactly what you need to make it one of the best Christmas seasons ever. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Check out the full list of top toys here! These will be the season’s popular picks, and you might already hear your kiddos talking about them all day long. SHOP THE TOP TOYS HERE Now on to the toys! First up, the LEGO Disney Alien and Pizza Planet Rocket Set ©Amazon If Toy Story is constantly on in your household, then you probably need this LEGO set. It features one of the green aliens inside a rocket ship ride straight from Pizza Planet. It’s a super easy display piece or something to play with, with a handle on the side that lets you move the rocket up and down. SHOP NOW You can also get your own LeapFrog Lilipad! ©Amazon It looks exactly like the movie! Check out the ABC Photo Album to practice letter skills, and hop to the Froggy 123 game to explore numbers and count to 100. It’s for ages 3 and up and can teach your kid a lot before they start school. It’s also affordable and super adorable. SHOP NOW How about this Spidey and his Amazing Friends Rescue-Webs Web-Quarters Playset? ©Amazon Say that five times fast! This playset is perfect for Spider-Man lovers and is super interactive. It includes lights and sounds, plus action figures, a firetruck, accessories, and more. It has over 20 different sounds and includes a Spider action figure. Your family will get hours of playing out of this. SHOP NOW This Tonies Cuddle Minnie Mouse takes the cake ©Amazon This Tonie fits right onto the box and teaches about friendship, community, and kindness with a total runtime of about 31 minutes. It’s neat to have a cuddly plush instead of ht etraditional plastic figure to shake up your collection, and we are sure this will be a new favorite. SHOP NOW We need this Bluey Cruise Ship Playset! ©Amazon While this is totally fun with the slide and interactive features, it’s also a great way to introduce your kids to the idea of a cruise before their first Disney Cruise. The set includes five interactive zones and Bluey and Bingo figures. When it folds up, it looks exactly like a cruise ship. SHOP NOW Finally, we have the Fisher-Price Transforming Buzz Lightyear Ship ©Amazon Back for more Toy Story love! This 3-in-1 toy turns from a spaceship to a giant robot to a rescue pod. It features light displays and ten galactic sounds, and it comes with Buzz Lightyear and an alien for extra fun. SHOP NOW Don’t forget to check out the entire top toy list right here on Amazon. SHOP THE TOP TOYS HERE In the meantime, keep following DFB for more of our favorite Disney finds you won’t want to miss this holiday season. View the full article

When it comes to reboots and remakes of old movies and shows, fans are divided. Some like them, while others wish original content would be made instead. Regardless, they just keep coming! ©IMDb The beloved musical dramedy series, Glee, is officially coming back. After premiering on Fox in 2009, the show went on for six seasons before concluding in 2015. Well, it looks like the show isn’t over quite yet, as the reboot has been greenlit and will be available on Disney+ and Hulu. If you aren’t familiar with Glee, the show follows a group of choir members from Lima, Ohio, who deal with the highs and lows of high school. We’re sure you’ve either seen the show, know someone who has, or have heard of it. It’s considered a cult classic for many reasons. Despite ending in 2015, the show is still popular today, as is its music, which averages 4.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify, according to Variety. ©IMDb We wish we could give you information on the new plot, but Disney hasn’t shared any information besides the fact that the series will be produced by 20th Television and will air on Hulu and Disney+. No, Disney also hasn’t shared any casting information, though sources say Lea Michelle will be back as Rachel Berry and Heather Morris will return as Brittany S. Pierce. We’re hoping that a bunch of the original stars will come back, and we’d honestly be surprised if they didn’t. ©IMDb “I’ve been in touch with around 10 of the original cast members,” said Ryan Murphy, co-writer of Glee, in an interview with Entertainment Tonight. The same interview where he confirmed he’d just written a reboot script with collaborators Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan. “It’s very sweet, and they all had a lot of questions, but they all were very enthusiastic about the idea.” ©IMDb Chris Colfer, an actor in Glee, pointed out that rebooting Glee would be difficult following Naya Rivera’s death in 2020. “It was a really tough show to do, and it would be really hard to do it now that Naya [Rivera] is gone. But I do know that Glee fans would probably come after me with pitchforks and jazz hands if I said no. So I don’t know, but hopefully I’ll have more information and I can actually think about it.” ©Disney We’ll be keeping an eye out for more news surrounding the reboot of this cult classic show. For all the latest Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog! Disney Drops MAJOR Dreamlight Valley Update, and It’s a Total Game-Changer What other Disney news just dropped? Check out our video below! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What are your thoughts on the reboot? Let us know in the comments! View the full article