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Christmas at Disney World comes with plenty of decisions. Which holiday snacks are worth your money? Is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party worth the ticket price? And, perhaps most importantly, where are you supposed to meet SANTA? Santa! Believe it or not, you’ve got quite a few options. Some require expensive theme park tickets, others involve elaborate holiday meals, and a few let you meet the big guy without spending a dime. We recently put together our rankings of the BEST and WORST places to meet Santa in Disney World in 2026, and one location came VERY close to taking our top spot. Disney Springs landed at #2 on our list, and we’ve got some pretty good reasons for putting it there. But before you grab your Christmas list and head out the door, keep a few things in mind. Why Disney Springs Earned Our #2 Spot Let’s start with the biggest selling point. Meeting Santa at Disney Springs is FREE! You don’t need a Magic Kingdom ticket, a reservation for an expensive character breakfast, or admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. You just need to get to Disney Springs, which also offers free parking. And when you consider that some of Disney World’s other Santa experiences can cost hundreds of dollars for a family, that’s a pretty convincing argument. Meet Santa at Disney Springs! Santa is expected to greet guests through December 24th, 2026, giving families plenty of opportunities to squeeze a visit into their holiday plans. Plus, there’s something nice about meeting Santa without sacrificing valuable theme park time. Make it a dedicated Christmas outing or work it into an afternoon of shopping and snacking. And you KNOW we’re always looking for an excuse to grab another Disney Springs snack. Where Can You Find Santa? In recent years, Santa has greeted guests in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs, near Disney Pin Traders. That’s the section of Disney Springs near World of Disney, Disney’s Days of Christmas, and several other popular shopping destinations. If you’re driving, the Lime Garage is generally a convenient parking option for reaching the Marketplace, although you’ll still have a bit of a walk. You have to come back at night Guests staying at Disney World Resort hotels can also take complimentary Disney bus transportation to Disney Springs. One important detail: Disney hasn’t confirmed all the operational details for the 2026 Santa meet-and-greet yet, so double-check his exact location and appearance times before you go. We’d hate for you to spend 20 minutes wandering around Disney Springs looking for a man in a red suit. That said, there are worse places to get lost. The Catch? EVERYONE Knows About It Here’s where Disney Springs loses a few points in our rankings. Free Santa is POPULAR Santa. Disney Springs is already a busy destination during the holidays, and adding a free Santa meet-and-greet gives families another reason to visit. That means you could encounter substantial crowds, especially on weekends and as Christmas approaches. Holidays at Disney Springs In 2025, Disney used a virtual queue for the Santa experience instead of a traditional standby line. The virtual queue helped manage crowds, but it also meant guests needed to understand how the system worked before arriving. As of now, Disney hasn’t confirmed whether it will bring back the same virtual queue process for 2026. Visit Santa in the Disney Springs Marketplace If it does, check the My Disney Experience app for instructions on joining the queue and receiving a return time. And remember, a virtual queue doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll walk straight up to Santa when your group is called. You may still have to wait. Our advice? Don’t make Santa the very last thing on your Disney Springs itinerary. Give yourself some flexibility in case the wait is longer than expected. When Should You Visit? If you have some flexibility in your schedule, we recommend visiting Disney Springs on a weekday rather than a weekend. If meeting Santa is a major priority, we’d also aim for earlier in the holiday season. The closer you get to Christmas Eve, the more families suddenly realize they haven’t delivered their Christmas lists. And while Santa might be able to visit millions of homes in one night, the Disney Springs version still has to follow regular operating hours. Santa at Once Upon a Toy in 2021 Check his greeting schedule before you go, and don’t assume he’ll be available all day. If Disney brings back the virtual queue, you’ll also want to familiarize yourself with the process BEFORE arriving. A little preparation could save you from spending your afternoon explaining to a disappointed six-year-old why Santa’s schedule is more complicated than booking a Lightning Lane. There’s Plenty More Christmas Fun Nearby One of our favorite things about this Santa location is that you can turn the visit into a full holiday outing. During the Christmas season, Disney Springs is packed with festive decorations, shopping, entertainment, and, of course, FOOD. Browse Disney’s Days of Christmas for ornaments, explore holiday merchandise at World of Disney, or grab something sweet while you wait for your turn with Santa. And don’t forget about the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll! Christmas Tree Stroll This annual holiday tradition features elaborately decorated Christmas trees inspired by Disney characters, movies, and attractions scattered throughout Disney Springs. It’s a fun way to explore the area, and it gives you something to do before or after your Santa visit. We’d much rather spend our afternoon checking out Christmas trees and eating holiday treats than standing in one spot staring at the back of somebody’s festive Mickey ears. That’s a pretty significant advantage over some of the more restrictive Santa experiences on our list. So Why Isn’t Disney Springs #1? With free admission, convenient transportation, and plenty of other holiday activities, you might be wondering why Disney Springs didn’t take our top spot. We found another Santa experience that we think offers something a little more special. Our #1 pick for 2026 is Santa’s Holiday Hangout at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin! Meet Santa Claus at the Swan and Dolphin! This experience includes Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elf Kandy Kane in a festive setting near the Swan pool. And just like Disney Springs, you don’t need a theme park ticket to attend. We love that it’s a more unusual Santa experience, and it tends to fly a bit farther under the radar than the Disney Springs meet-and-greet. There IS a catch, though. Santa on vacation Santa’s Holiday Hangout is only offered on select dates, with appearances scheduled from 6 PM to 8 PM on November 27th and 28th, December 4th and 5th, December 11th and 12th, and December 18th through 21st. That’s a much smaller window of opportunity than you’ll find at Disney Springs. So, if your vacation dates don’t line up with the Swan and Dolphin schedule, Disney Springs might actually be the better option for your family. Is Disney Springs Worth It? Absolutely, especially if you want an affordable way to meet Santa during your Disney World vacation. You don’t need to purchase park admission, commit to an expensive holiday meal, or rearrange your entire vacation around a separately ticketed event. With so many other Christmas activities nearby, it’s easy to turn the experience into an afternoon or evening. Christmas Tree Stroll Just remember that convenience comes with a trade-off. You’re probably not the only family that figured out Santa is free at Disney Springs. Plan ahead, keep an eye on the greeting schedule, and expect holiday crowds. If you’re curious about other places to meet Santa this year, including a few that landed MUCH lower on our list, check out our complete rankings of the best and worst Santa experiences at Disney World in 2026. We’ll keep you updated on all the holiday happenings at Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB! 5 Rules Disney World Is Enforcing for Christmas in 2026 Read More About the Holidays in Disney World These Three Disney World Rides Are Getting MAJOR Holiday Overlays!Why Disney World Fans Are Suddenly Changing Their Holiday PlansThis Disney World Restaurant Just Added 5 New Cocktails to Its MenuWe May Have Found an Unfortunate Side Effect of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in Disney WorldNEWS: Gingerbread Castle Display Is Now at Disney’s Contemporary Resort! DON'T MISS A MOMENT OF HOLIDAY MAGIC Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. It includes all the must-have information for navigating the holiday season at Disney World, including: The COMPLETE schedule of events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World's busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And, of course, we'll tell you where to eat! Save 20% on the Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide with code PEPPERMINT. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW MORE Disney World Holiday INFO! Learn About Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Get the Latest Information About the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Get All the Details About Disney Jollywood Nights Everything You Need to Know About Disney World Holiday Dining and Events Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest holiday news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Where is YOUR favorite place to meet Santa at Disney World? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

RAWR! Monstropolis opens in Hollywood Studios in 2026, so I’m practicing my monster speech to fit right into the city. Don’t worry, I heard there will be translators too. I have dreamed of walking into the world of Monsters, Inc., and the time is almost here, so we’re grabbing our hard hats and helping Disney get it going! Monstropolis Entrance While most of Monstropolis in 2027 is ready, the hanging door roller coaster will take a bit longer. We got the latest update on the roller coaster, and it’s looking SO good! Bioreconstruct on X shared great overhead shots of the hanging door roller coaster. Here’s a big overview so you can see where the coaster really is in Hollywood Studios. ©Bioreconstruct It looks a bit chaotic, but the main structure is taking shape. While they’re building the outdoor walls, they’re also building the roller coaster track. Isn’t it interesting that they do it at the same time, rather than building the building and then laying the track inside? ©Bioreconstruct It looks like a whole building now! Are you feeling the industrial vibes? ©Bioreconstruct Check out the track on the inside! ©Bioreconstruct Let us in, please! ©Bioreconstruct We can’t believe how big it’s looking, too. We get why it’s going to take a little longer to finish everything, but we hope we don’t have to wait much longer after the original Monstropolis opens. ©Bioreconstruct Here’s a look at the main Monstropolis area that used to be Muppets Courtyard. The roller coaster took over part of the Cast Member parking lot, but the actual Muppets Courtyard got completely replaced for Mike and Sulley. ©Bioreconstruct We can’t wait to see how the fountain looks at the end. While it’s not Miss Piggy, at least there’s still something. ©Bioreconstruct It’s pretty strange to see the whole ground be dirt right now too. We are still ways away from it opening, but it is coming along. ©Bioreconstruct Now, we’re pretty good detectives here at Disney Food Blog. We’ve searched permits and patents, along with other publicly filed documents, for any hints about what is coming to Disney World. The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, Disney World’s governing jurisdiction and special taxing district, is meeting on October 23rd to discuss “Project L.” Rumor has it that Project L is part of Monstropolis! Disney hasn’t been super clear about what it is (hence the secret name), but we’ll share all the details from the meeting, and hopefully we get some great Monstropolis news. ©Disney We’re sharing all the Disney World updates you need to know right here at DFB, so keep following for more! DISNEY FILES NEW PERMIT THAT POINTS TO MONSTROPOLIS PLAYGROUND AT HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS 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

Disney World has its rules. But since our Disney Food Blog team is in the parks EVERY SINGLE DAY, we’ve come up with our OWN set of rules. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad And if you want a great Disney World trip ahead of ya…. Then you’re gonna wanna follow ‘em, too. Check out our new video: Our Disney World Rules 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

Picture this: you are planning your perfect Disney vacation, the flights are booked, the hotel is picked out, dining reservations are made. Everything appears to be figured out, UNTIL you realize: What am I going to wear? Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom New Disney merch drops ALL the time, which means it can be difficult to know what to choose for your next Disney trip. But there’s no need to stress; we always find the cutest and best Disney merch, perfect for your next vacay. And we just found a collection you NEED to see. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Disney just dropped a new Castle Loungewear collection with the cutest and coziest clothes, perfect for your winter trip to Disney World, so let’s dive in! First up is this Fantasyland Castle Zip Hoodie ©Disney This hoodie is all things pretty and pink! The base is a very light pink that is covered with the cutest little flowers. Then it also features Cinderella Castle with a bow at the base, but our favorite detail has to be that the strings from the hood can be tied together to create a bow! Which really is the perfect detail to tie this whole design together. VIEW ON DISNEY STORE You also need to check out these Fantasyland Castle Lounge Shorts ©Disney These ones are the same design as the first pink hoodie, so if you want to grab an adorable matching set, you can with these shorts. This would be perfect for lounging in your hotel after a long day in Disney World! VIEW ON DISNEY STORE Next up is this Fantasyland Castle Pullover Sweatshirt ©Disney Now, if you loved the last sweatshirt but you prefer a pullover to a hoodie, and blue instead of pink, this is the sweatshirt for you! The designs are extremely similar; except on this one, the base color is cream, the flowers are blue, and the bow at the base of the bottom of the castle is also blue. So, if pink is not your color, grab this one instead! VIEW ON DISNEY STORE You can also match with these Fantasyland Castle Lounge Pants ©Disney These are the same design as the blue pullover and absolutely perfect if you want to match all in blue. Plus, we are slowly approaching the colder season at Disney World, so this set could be a great way to stay cozy and warm. Or, if you can’t decide between the pink and the blue, you could mix and match these options to find the best pair for you! VIEW ON DISNEY STORE You also need to see the Fantasyland Castle Wide Leg Sweatpants for Kids ©Disney Now, if you really want to lean into an all-blue design, these are the perfect sweatpants. They are light blue with a dark blue stripe, and Cinderella Castle in the same shade of blue. Plus, they are a much thicker material, perfect for when it is cold at Disney or even to wear at home! VIEW ON DISNEY STORE Next is this Fantasyland Castle Pullover Sweatshirt for Kids ©Disney If you have any younger kids who love Disney and want a cute matching outfit for their next trip, this pullover and the sweatpants from above are the perfect option. They are cute, comfortable, and will keep your kiddo nice and warm on a cold Florida winter day (which does happen occasionally!), so make sure to check out this set if you have a trip planned in the next few months. VIEW ON DISNEY STORE Finally, is the Fantasyland Castle Tumbler ©Disney We are obsessed with this adorable cup! It is cream with light pink and blue details all throughout. It, of course, features Cinderella Castle; only this time birds are tying the bow, which really is the most perfect detail. If you’re looking to bring some Disney magic into your everyday life, then this is the cup for you! VIEW ON DISNEY STORE Will you be adding anything from this collection to your cart? Let us know in the comments and stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! View the full article

We’re less than three months away from 2027 (someone PLEASE slow down time), which means it’s time to start talking about planning your Disney World vacations for next year — I know, I can’t believe it either. Magic Kingdom at Disney World You’re going to need to figure out where to stay, where to eat, what to ride, and so much more, so it’s important you know what’s going to be CLOSED on your trip. But don’t worry, we do the work for you — we have a FULL list of the rides, restaurants, and hotels that have confirmed closures in 2027. Let’s go through them, so you’re not caught by surprise on your next vacation! Rides & Attractions Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress in the Magic Kingdom has been closed for refurbishment since the beginning of July, and it will continue to be closed for about half of 2027. The show is getting an update with new scenes from the 1960s, 1980s, the new millennium, and a possible future. The pre-show of this attraction will include a Walt Disney audio-animatronic. Carousel of Progress Concept Art ©Disney At this year’s D23 Expo, Disney announced that Bryan Cranston and Jamie Lee Curtis will be voicing the roles of Father and Mother, respectively. The original voice of Patricia, Debi Derryberry, will be returning, but in a different role — Grandmother. The attraction is slated to open in late spring 2027. via @waltdisneyimagineering on Instagram Monstropolis The Monsters, Inc.-themed land in Hollywood Studios is scheduled to open sometime in 2027 with new entertainment, attractions, shopping, and dining locations. While the land’s E-ticket attraction was confirmed, it will not be opening with the land; the “Welcome to Monstropolis” theater show will! This show will welcome humans to the Glob Theater and enjoy a theater show hosted by Mike and Sulley! According to Chris Beatty, Vice President of Walt Disney Imagineering, “Sulley has been working on a small, homespun show, but Mike – ever the showman – has a few surprises up his sleeve that he thinks will bring down the house. Hopefully not literally.” ©Disney A quick-service restaurant (Archie’s Scare Pig Pizza), table-service dining location (Harryhausen’s), the Scareporium, the Monsters University Alumni Club, and more are scheduled to open with the land as well. ©Disney Pueblo Esperanza Animal Kingdom’s new land is also expected to open in 2027, and with it will come THREE new attractions. The first will be a classic carousel-style attraction called El Carrusel de los Animalitos, which translates to “The Little Animals Carousel.” The attraction will feature 22 uniquely carved characters and will have no height requirement. @bioreconstruct on X The Encanto-themed attraction will also have no height requirement. Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto will take guests through the Madrigals’ Casita just as Antonio has received his special gift and his room becomes a beautiful rainforest. The attraction will be home to over 50 animal animatronics. ©Disney Finally, Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent will be the land’s third attraction. As described by Disney, the attraction will follow “the man with the hat” during a time when he has “recently discovered a perfectly preserved Maya temple, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time to explore it. He’s heard rumors about a mythical creature deep within the temple — and he’s got to see it for himself. So, he brings us along on the adventure… but will there be snakes? We’ll just have to wait and see.” The attraction will feature the first audio-animatronic based on Harrison Ford! ©bioreconstruct CONFIRMED: Disney Drops 19 Park Expansion Announcements Restaurants Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge Both Scat Cat’s Club Lounge and Cafe have been closed for refurbishment since October 6th, 2026. The cafe has plans to reopen in December; however, the lounge isn’t expected to reopen until January 2027. During these closures, you can still get beignets, but they’ll just be at Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter’s quick-service location: Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory. A small pop-up bar is available for lounge drinks outside of the lounge in a small corner. Look hard; it may be easy to miss! Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room Starting on January 11th, 2027, both the Pub and Dining Room of Rose & Crown in the UK Pavilion at EPCOT will be closed for refurbishment. These spaces are scheduled to reopen later in 2027, though no specific reopening date has been announced. Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room I’ve Eaten at Every Fast Food Restaurant in Disney World. I Did Not Expect These 6 to Make My Favorites List Hotels Disney’s Contemporary Resort Through late 2027, both Bay Lake Tower and the Contemporary Main Tower atrium will continue undergoing construction. This construction may impact views from various locations throughout the hotel and, at times, may require alternate paths of travel. Disney’s Contemporary Resort All-Star Movies Resort The guest rooms at All-Star Movies Resort have a planned refurbishment through January 2027. At this time, there are no plans for refurbishments at the other All-Star Resorts (Music and Sports). All-Star Movies Resort Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge While Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has been undergoing refurbishments throughout their Jambo House and Kidani Village buildings, it is scheduled to continue through January 2027, specifically the guest rooms at Jambo House. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Art of Animation Resort From mid-June 2027 through October 2028, the rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will undergo refurbishment. Additionally, the Disney Skyliner will be closed for refurbishment from January 24th through January 30th, 2027. Alternative modes of transportation will be available. Art of Animation Resort Disney’s Beach Club Resort This popular EPCOT resort is currently undergoing visible exterior maintenance that will continue through late 2027. This construction may impact views from various locations throughout the hotel and, at times, may require alternate paths of travel. Beach Club Exterior Maintenance Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Several areas of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn will be closed in 2027. This includes refurbishment around the resort and Villas through 2027. And from January 11th, 2027, through April 2027, the Luna Park Pool, the Luna Park Crazy Play Area, and Leaping Horse Libations will be closed for routine maintenance. During this time, the Villas and Inn Leisure Pools will remain open for Guests to enjoy. BoardWalk Inn Coronado Springs Resort While the resort and the rooms themselves aren’t going under refurbishment, the connected convention center is. Through late September 2027, the Convention Center at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is being refurbished. The El Centro Corridor and surrounding areas will also undergo a refurbishment during this time. Convention Center Concept Art ©Disney Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Select areas, including the covered entrance, are currently undergoing refurbishment through early 2027. Grand Floridian Monorail station construction Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Room refurbishments at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside have been undergoing refurbishments since May 2025, and these renovations will continue through August 2027. For a look at some of the new guest rooms, click HERE! Royal Guest Room at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge Finally, we have a hotel closure only because it has never been open; however, that’s changing! Disney’s newest Disney Vacation Club Resort — Lakeshore Lodge — will open on July 1st, 2027. Disney shares that the brand-new hotel, which will be located on Disney World’s Bay Lake, will “celebrate the beauty and magic of nature as seen through the eyes of Disney artists and storytellers.” Several new dining locations will open with the resort as well. ©bioreconstruct We never want you to be surprised on your Disney World vacations, which is why we made this FULL LIST of closures in 2027! Stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news, updates, tips, and tricks! So many other changes coming to Disney World in 2027 have also been announced — check them out in the video below! Disney World Magic Kingdom Lightning Lane Strategy for 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 going to Disney World in 2027? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

Is it really a trip to Disney World without going to Magic Kingdom? For me, no! I have to see the castle and walk down Main Street, U.S.A., but a few other team members think Animal Kingdom is enough. But have you had an ice cream bar and popcorn while watching fireworks? Magic Kingdom Christmas Tree Magic Kingdom is the highlight of the Disney World trip, but it’s about to go through some major changes, so here’s a heads up before you throw on your Mickey ears and start walking under the train station. Starting November 1st, Disney World will begin transitioning from Halloween to Christmas! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ends on October 31st, and then it’s Christmas all the way through Magic Kingdom. CHRISTMAS! Back in the day (okay, it wasn’t that long ago, we all remember it), Disney used to rip down the Halloween decorations and completely decorate for Christmas overnight, so one day you’d see pumpkins and the next, you’d see wreaths and candy canes. While the transformation starts in the first week of November, in recent years, we’ve found they usually do it in phases instead of one overnight transformation. Toy Soldiers Some think that makes it a little less magical, but it’s pretty fun to go to the parks every day and look for new decorations. Last year, Disney surprised us by putting out themed Christmas trees and wreaths in the different lands of Magic Kingdom, which is such a nice touch. Dumbo wreath Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party runs on select nights from November 8th to December 22nd, and we usually find all the decorations are up before the first party night. That gives them about a week to get everything up in the Magic Kingdom. Spreading out makes sense because they have four theme parks and plenty of resorts to decorate, and Magic Kingdom is decked to the nines, with massive trees, tons of lights, and a few ride overlays, like the Jingle Cruise, to work on. Happy Holidays! Wait, did I say ride overlay? Sure did! The Jungle Cruise transforms into the Jingle Cruise on November 3rd, and the skippers will start telling holiday-themed jokes while you take in the scenes with new holiday additions. Jingle Cruise Back to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This event is an after-hours party, so you need to buy an additional ticket to access the exclusive entertainment, snacks, and characters. Tickets are already starting to sell out, so if you have limited dates you can attend, grab yours sooner rather than later. Holidays in Disney World We can’t wait for Magic Kingdom to go from orange and black to red and green, and we’re taking you along. We’re sharing all the holiday happenings right here at Disney Food Blog, so keep following along for more. EVERYTHING COMING TO MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY IN DISNEY WORLD IN 2026 DON'T MISS A MOMENT OF HOLIDAY MAGIC Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. It includes all the must-have information for navigating the holiday season at Disney World, including: The COMPLETE schedule of events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World's busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And, of course, we'll tell you where to eat! Save 20% on the Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide with code PEPPERMINT. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW MORE Disney World Holiday INFO! Learn About Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Get the Latest Information About the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Get All the Details About Disney Jollywood Nights Everything You Need to Know About Disney World Holiday Dining and Events Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest holiday news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you going to Magic Kingdom for the holidays this year? Tell us what you’re looking forward to in the comments. View the full article

Disney just made a major change to one of the resort’s most popular rides in hopes of fixing a controversial issue… and may have actually just made the issue WORSE! Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Since its opening back in 2022, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind has been one of the most popular rides not just at Disney World, but in the country! In fact, since the ride shifted from a virtual queue to a standby line in 2025, making it available to any guest willing to wait, it has often had the highest average wait of any attraction at the resort’s four theme parks, with times often over an hour each week. However, the ride had an issue… in its queue. During the ride’s pre-show, a video featuring Centurion Tal Mark (played by actor Terry Crews) would play. In the clip, the character was stumped as to the name of the people who live in EPCOT, name-dropping EPCOT-ians, Citizens of EPCOT, etc. Crews’ character asks someone off camera, “Does anyone know what they call themselves?” which was followed by a pause. During said pause, guests in the room would yell out answers like “alcoholics” or “drunks” in reference to people who choose to Drink Around the World. Pre-show with Terry Crews Some guests found the bit amusing, while others would groan at hearing the same “joke” over and over again, especially those put off by the subject matter not feeling very… on brand for Disney World. Things weren’t helped by the fact that the Cosmic Rewind queue is overall somewhat unpopular among fans thanks to its layout. Part of the Cosmic Rewind queue. For years, Disney left the moment alone… until October of 2026, that is! With no announcement, guests noticed a new edit of the queue video that used a quick cut to lessen the pause considerably as a way to try and discourage the yelling. However, we’d argue Disney’s move may have backfired! For starters, there’s still enough time for people to yell out even with the new edit. Beyond that move, which went a bit viral amongst theme park and Disney aficionado social media, it likely brought more attention to the act of yelling out than it had received in the last four years combined, arguably making Disney’s change an example of the so-called “Streisand Effect.” Cosmic Rewind Disney just tried to solve a big problem with the Cosmic Rewind queue… and may have just made things worse instead. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney’s changes! Speaking of changes to EPCOT, the park has transformed A LOT over its lifespan! 5 Things That’ll Make Your Ride on Cosmic Rewind in Disney World 10x Better 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 the queue change? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

For generations, Disney has proudly honored the courage, sacrifice, and service of America’s military community. As Veterans Day approaches, we’re excited to share a first look at this year’s Veterans Day merchandise collection, now available at select locations across Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort while supplies last. Featuring Mickey Mouse and patriotic designs inspired by all branches of the U.S. military, the collection includes a T-shirt, spirit jersey, mug, and baseball cap. A special commemorative pin will also be available at Walt Disney World Resort. Each item was thoughtfully designed to celebrate those who have served and the military families who stand beside them. Whether worn in the parks, at home, or shared as a gift, these pieces offer a meaningful way to recognize America’s veterans and active-duty service members. The collection will be available at select locations at Walt Disney World Resort including the Emporium at Magic Kingdom Park, Discovery Trading Company at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Creations Shop at EPCOT, Mickey’s of Hollywood at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and World of Disney at Disney Springs. At Disneyland Resort, guests can find the collection at the Emporium in Disneyland park, Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure park, and World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District. Theme park admission and reservations may be required where applicable. Honoring Veterans Across Disney This special merchandise collection is just one of the many ways Disney recognizes Veterans and military families. In November, teams across Disney will celebrate National Veterans and Military Families Month by honoring veterans, service members, and military families with special recognition, stories, and tributes. Guests visiting our parks can also experience special Veterans Day Flag Retreat ceremonies on November 11 at both Disneyland park at Disneyland Resort and Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. These cherished ceremonies offer a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in uniform. For many guests and cast members, these ceremonies have become a beloved tradition, highlighting the deep connection between Disney and the military community. A Tradition of Respect and Gratitude This annual collection continues a long-standing tradition of honoring veterans and military families while celebrating their lasting contributions to our nation. We invite guests to join us in recognizing and thanking those who have served by commemorating Veterans Day with this special collection. Walt Disney and Roy O. Disney Our admiration and support for U.S. military service members, veterans and military families is woven into Disney’s story and has been for more than a century. That legacy began with founders Walt Disney and Roy O. Disney, both of whom answered the call to serve their country during World War I. Since then, Disney has remained committed to honoring those who serve through meaningful programs, experiences, community events, and special moments of recognition. READ MORE Disneyland Resort Honors Medal of Honor Recipient READ MORE Air Force Veteran Helps Refresh the Norway Pavilion at EPCOT READ MORE A Salute to Military Service in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure The post First Look at Disney’s New Veterans Day Merchandise Collection appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

One of the best ways to commemorate your Disney World trip is by taking pictures you’ll cherish forever. Luckily for you, Disney has professional photographers all around the parks, resorts, and even Disney Springs to capture your magical moments. PhotoPass If you want some villainous photos to commemorate this spooky season, Disney has you covered. Head to Disney Springs to take photos in iconic Disney villain lairs and pose with some frightfully fun sidekicks! Head to the Disney PhotoPass Studio in the Marketplace at Disney Springs for two brand-new photo ops! Take a mini photoshoot on Maleficent’s dragon-shaped throne in your villainous best… ©Disney Or pose with her sidekick Diablo perched on your hand like the Mistress of all Evil herself! ©Disney The second new photo-op is in Hades’ lair, featuring his throne, vases, and candelabras in the background. ©Disney You can also grab a MagicShot with his sidekicks Pain and Panic freaking out. OH MY GODS! Has our evil plan gone wrong?!? ©Disney To get these villainous glamour shots, head to Disney PhotoPass Studio in the Marketplace at Disney Springs anytime from 11 AM to 9 PM. If you have PhotoPass, this experience is included! No reservations are required, and you can choose two special photo-capture experiences per visit. PhotoPass Studio Disney hasn’t announced an end date for these PhotoPass backdrops, so we recommend heading over the next time you’re at Disney Springs, just in case this is only for a short window. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on more PhotoPass experiences, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog! 7 Amazon Finds That Bring Disney World Home 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 getting these new PhotoPass photos? Comment below! View the full article

Disney fans struggle to walk past a Loungefly display without stopping. These little backpacks have become collectibles, fashion statements, and, occasionally, the reason we’re explaining another purchase to our bank accounts. Loungeflys! And if you’re looking for your next Loungefly obsession, BoxLunch has some seriously good options right now. We’ve rounded up 15 Disney Loungefly mini backpacks with loads of 5-star reviews worth checking out, whether you’re shopping for your next Disney World trip or adding another bag to your collection. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Loungefly Disney Brother Bear Koda & Kenai Mini Backpack Brother Bear doesn’t get nearly enough merchandise, so we’re giving this backpack some extra attention. Koda and Kenai are two of Disney’s most underrated characters, and a Loungefly celebrating their story feels like a win for fans who’ve been waiting for more Brother Bear love. ©BoxLunch It’s also a fun choice if you prefer Disney merchandise that doesn’t look like something everyone else in the park already owns. view ON BOXLUNCH — 110 5-star reviews Loungefly Disney Chip & Dale Bat Mini Backpack Chip and Dale dressed for Halloween? We’re listening. This backpack features the mischievous chipmunks in a bat costume, complete with embroidered jack-o’-lantern details. It’s adorable, a little spooky, and perfect for anyone who considers Halloween a legitimate year-round aesthetic. ©BoxLunch We’d bring this one to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party without a second thought. View on BoxLunch — 52 5-star reviews Loungefly Disney Sleeping Beauty Aurora Stained Glass Portrait Mini Backpack Disney’s stained glass merchandise has been having a moment, and we’re happy to let it continue. This Sleeping Beauty backpack features stained glass-inspired artwork with appliqués of Aurora, the fairies, and flowers. ©Amazon The design has a classic storybook quality that makes it feel more sophisticated than your average character backpack. It’s a particularly pretty option for Disney princess fans who want something they can wear outside the parks, too. view ON BOXLUNCH — 42 5-star reviews Disney Beauty and the Beast Belle Stained Glass Mini Backpack Speaking of stained glass, Belle deserves a place in this conversation. Beauty and the Beast practically wrote the book on gorgeous stained glass imagery, so this design feels right at home in a Loungefly collection. ©BoxLunch It’s an easy pick for Belle fans, especially anyone who loves the movie’s romantic, ornate look. And if you’re planning an outfit for a meal at Be Our Guest Restaurant, we’d start here. view ON BOXLUNCH — 25 5-star reviews Disney Pixar Cars Flo’s Cafe Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Backpack Now THIS is the kind of Pixar merchandise we want to see more often. Instead of another backpack featuring Lightning McQueen’s face, this one celebrates Flo’s V8 Cafe from Cars. The design features Flo on the front pocket, the cafe’s retro architecture, and glow-in-the-dark neon-sign details. ©BoxLunch It’s got serious Route 66 energy, and the glowing details make it even better. This might be one of our favorite choices for Disney fans who appreciate the smaller details and locations from their favorite movies. view ON BOXLUNCH — 30 5-star reviews Loungefly Disney The Emperor’s New Groove Kronk & Yzma Coaster Mini Backpack Pull the lever, Kronk! The Emperor’s New Groove doesn’t get nearly enough love in the Disney merchandise department, and we’d happily make room in our collections for more Kronk and Yzma. A backpack inspired by Kronk and Yzma’s ridiculous coaster adventure is exactly the kind of oddly specific Disney reference we appreciate. ©BoxLunch This is a fantastic choice for fans who enjoy carrying a little inside joke around the parks. Bonus points if someone recognizes it and immediately starts quoting the movie. View on BoxLunch — 35 5-star reviews Loungefly Disney Pixar Toy Story Embroidered Icons Canvas Mini Backpack Sometimes the best Disney accessories are the ones that don’t demand your entire outfit revolve around them. This Toy Story backpack features the movie’s recognizable cloud pattern with embroidered character details. ©BoxLunch It’s playful without being overwhelming, and the canvas-inspired styling gives it a more casual look than some of Loungefly’s elaborate designs. We could see this becoming an everyday favorite, especially for anyone who loves Toy Story but wants something a little more understated. view ON BOXLUNCH — 26 5-star reviews Loungefly Disney Minnie & Daisy Cowgirl Mini Backpack Minnie and Daisy have entered their cowgirl era, and we’re here for it. Western-inspired Disney merchandise is always fun because it gives familiar characters a completely different personality. ©BoxLunch This is the kind of backpack we’d pair with denim, boots, and a cute outfit for a day at Magic Kingdom. It also feels like a natural choice for fans who love the rustic atmosphere of Frontierland. view ON BOXLUNCH Disney Pixar Cars Holiday Light-Up Mini Backpack If you’ve ever visited Cars Land during the holidays, you know Radiator Springs takes Christmas decorating VERY seriously. This holiday-themed Cars Loungefly brings some of that festive personality to a mini backpack, complete with light-up features. ©BoxLunch We’re suckers for Disney accessories that do something extra, and a light-up backpack certainly qualifies. It’s an especially fun option for holiday Disney trips, when a little extra sparkle is practically part of the dress code. view ON BOXLUNCH Loungefly Disney Minnie Mouse Ears Treats Allover Print Mini Backpack A backpack covered in Mickey-shaped snacks? Well, now you’ve got our attention. This Minnie Mouse Loungefly features an allover print of Mickey-inspired treats, complete with appliqué ears and a shiny bow. ©BoxLunch It’s basically a love letter to Disney snacks, which means it speaks our language. If your ideal Disney day involves more snack stops than Lightning Lanes, this backpack might be your perfect match. view ON BOXLUNCH Loungefly Disney Minnie Mouse Floral Ears Mini Backpack There’s something timeless about a floral Minnie Mouse backpack. This design combines Minnie’s signature ears and bow with pretty floral details for a softer, more feminine look. ©BoxLunch It’s the kind of Loungefly that works for spring trips, EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival, or just about any day when you want a little Disney magic in your outfit. Unlike some character-heavy designs, this one is easy to style with everyday clothes. view ON BOXLUNCH Loungefly Disney Lilo & Stitch Pirate Stitch Figural Mini Backpack Stitch has never been particularly interested in following the rules, so dressing him up as a pirate feels appropriate. This figural mini backpack gives everyone’s favorite chaotic alien a pirate makeover. ©BoxLunch It’s a fun departure from the endless tropical Stitch designs, and we’re always interested when Loungefly does something a little different with a popular character. If you’re a Stitch collector, this is one worth investigating. view ON BOXLUNCH Loungefly Disney Minnie Mouse Key Lime Pie Lime Scented Mini Backpack Excuse me while I completely lose my composure over this backpack. If you’ve read anything from me before, you know I have STRONG feelings about Disney’s Key Lime Pie on a Stick. It’s one of my all-time favorite Disney World snacks, and now there’s a Loungefly inspired by key lime pie. ©BoxLunch This backpack features a pie-shaped front pocket, embroidered details, lime-inspired Minnie ears, and a dimensional bow. AND IT SMELLS LIKE LIME. ©BoxLunch A lime-scented Loungefly. Someone at Disney merchandise headquarters understands me. This is the kind of delightfully specific Disney accessory I never knew I needed until it existed. And yes, I’d wear it while eating a Key Lime Pop. view ON BOXLUNCH Loungefly Disney Chip & Dale Stained Glass Mini Backpack Chip and Dale are back, but this time they’re trading their Halloween costumes for something a little more elegant. The stained glass-inspired design gives these classic Disney characters a different look from their usual playful merchandise. ©BoxLunch We love seeing Loungefly experiment with different artistic styles, especially when the characters are as recognizable as Chip and Dale. It’s a fun choice for collectors who want something that feels both classic Disney and a little unexpected. view ON BOXLUNCH Loungefly Disney Lilo & Stitch Stitch & Scrump Duck Biking Mini Backpack We weren’t prepared for how cute this one is. The backpack features Stitch, Scrump, and some adorable ducks riding along on Lilo’s bike, with palm trees and a tropical sunset in the background. It’s a whole little scene from the world of Lilo & Stitch, and the details give it a lot more personality than a simple character portrait. ©BoxLunch This is an especially sweet option for Stitch fans who prefer the softer side of everyone’s favorite alien. And really, who can resist ducks? view ON BOXLUNCH Which Loungefly Would You Pick? The hardest part about shopping for Disney Loungefly backpacks is convincing yourself that you only need one. Between the gorgeous stained glass designs, nostalgic Pixar references, seasonal favorites, and that ridiculous lime-scented Key Lime Pie backpack, BoxLunch has some excellent options for Disney collectors. ©BoxLunch Whether you’re looking for a new Disney World park bag or something to add to your collection, these BoxLunch exclusives are worth a closer look. And if you happen to spot someone carrying the Key Lime Pie Loungefly while eating a Key Lime Pop, come say hello. There’s a very good chance it’s me. ©BoxLunch Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney merchandise finds, shopping deals, and everything you need to know before your next Disney vacation! View the full article

You can’t visit Disney World without traveling there first, which can often mean starting your magical vacation by arriving at the Orlando International Airport. ©Breeze Airways Although MCO is so large and serves many people traveling to and from Disney, there are still some airlines that do not offer direct flights to MCO from certain locations. However, that is all changing for one destination, on the budget airline Breeze Airways starting next year. WFTV 9 just shared that starting in May 2027, Breeze Airways will be offering non-stop flights to Latrobe, Pennsylvania on Wednesdays and Saturdays starting on May 26th! This is extremely exciting news for any Disney fans in or around Pennsylvania looking for affordable non-stop travel to Disney. ©Breeze Airways While other airlines do offer this non-stop travel, it is always nice to see it added to more budget-friendly airlines, since traveling to Disney World can get very expensive quick. It was also shared that while these flights will not be non-stop, starting on May 28th, 2027, on Mondays and Fridays, Breeze will have flights to Albany. ©Tampa International Airport While these flights do include a stop, it was made clear that passengers will not have to change plans, making for a much smoother process and no chance of missing a connecting flight during a layover. ©️Orlando International Airport Now, MCO has had some recent news as well, as it was announced several weeks ago that the Visit MCO Visitor Pass Program officially relaunched. This is a program that allows non-traveling guests beyond security to enjoy the food and shops, but also to spend more time with any family or friends who are flying out of the airport. Security checkpoint at MCO We are happy to see that Breeze is starting to create even more flights and options for guests traveling to Disney World, and we will make sure to keep you informed of any other important travel or MCO updates. So stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! I Tried The Fastest TSA PreCheck Hack, And Still Almost Missed My Flight If you are planning a trip to Disney World soon, make sure to check out our ultimate 5-day Disney World itinerary right 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 Do you fly on Breeze Airways? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Missing Disney World? You’re not alone! Magic Kingdom Whenever we’re feeling homesick for our home away from home, we often turn to Amazon for special souvenirs that bring back all the warm fuzzies you get during a visit to Disney World. From devices that make our favorite Disney snacks to decorations that make us feel like we’re enjoying our favorite rides, there are so many cool gifts. Let’s check out some of our favs! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. You can make Mickey Waffles AT HOME! ©Amazon This Mickey Mouse MIC-62 Double Flip Waffle Maker is like a dream come true! You don’t need to pony up a ton of money to stay at a Disney hotel and then wake up extra early to enjoy some Mickey waffles anymore. This waffle maker can cook up to 6 Mickey-shaped mini waffles and includes nonstick cooking plates, a variable shade selector dial, and an illuminated power switch. BUY ON AMAZON Make authentic waffles with this souvenir Golden Waffles Waffle and Pancake Mix ©Amazon You got the look right — now get the taste right with this Original Waffle & Pancake Mix from Golden Waffles! This is the same mix Disney uses in its Parks, and this 33-0z can gives you the power to literally recreate the beloved treat right at home. BUY ON AMAZON Turn your home into the Haunted Mansion with these decorations ©Amazon Who hasn’t wanted their home to give off Haunted Mansion vibes at some point? Whether you’re decorating for Halloween or just want to rep one of your favorite rides, we recommend checking out the Haunted Mansion Stretching Portraits Decorations! This set of four includes the four portraits from the stretching room on thick, durable banners that sport anti-wrinkle and weather-resistant material — so you can hang them indoors or outside. BUY ON AMAZON The four Disney World Parks will always be with you thanks to these posters ©Amazon It’s tough to resist any vintage Disney souvenirs, and these Vintage Disney World Parks Posters are no exception. They come in a set of 4 unframed 8×10 posters that sport classic looks at Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom, Spaceship Earth in EPCOT, the Hollywood Tower of Terror in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the Tree of Life in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. BUY ON AMAZON Decorate your home with Disney Princesses ©Amazon The RoomMates Disney Princess Sketches Peel and Stick Wallpaper is especially great for kids’ rooms! This souvenir features the Disney Princesses in a sketch design and can easily be placed with no paste or water. Each roll covers up to 30.75 sq. ft., and you can pick it up in charcoal, pink, or plum. BUY ON AMAZON Make your very own Disney-inspired popcorn at home! ©Amazon Missing the smell and taste of popcorn at the Disney Parks? Make it at home with this Mickey Mouse Kettle-Style Popcorn Maker! Officially licensed by Disney, this machine makes up to 6 to 8 cups of fresh kettle-style popcorn and features a tilting door, a slide-out tray, an oil spoon, a kernel scoop, and 4 Mickey character serving cups. BUY ON AMAZON Fans of Be Our Guest Restaurant will adore this next souvenir ©Amazon Glance upon Beast’s castle whenever you’d like with the Beauty and the Beast Castle Hanging Acrylic Wall Decor! This decoration sports a stained-glass design of the gorgeous castle, and really shines when light passes through it. Timeless and gorgeous, this souvenir is a must-have for fans of the animated film and the Magic Kingdom restaurant. BUY ON AMAZON What are some souvenirs you keep at home to remind you of Disney World? Let us know in the comments, and continue to follow us here at DFB for more great Disney finds! View the full article

Adorable breaking news just dropped at Disney World: we are talking about a brand-new manatee that has just arrived in EPCOT! Calfuccino! Calfuccino just made her EPCOT debut, and we are going to tell you everything we learned about the cutest new addition to the Sea Base Aquarium. On our last visit to EPCOT, we found the most adorable new manatee, Calfuccino, swimming around with the other manatees in the Sea Base. After speaking to Cast Members, we learned more about Calfuccino and her story. Hi Calfuccino! She is around two years old and came to EPCOT after her mother, Venti, got injured. However, despite her injuries, she was still able to care for Calfuccino, who came into care very well fed and healthy. Currently, Venti is being treated at the Tampa Zoo and responding very well to care. There is not currently any information from the Cast Members on whether Calfuccino will be reunited with her mother. We love her! They also shared that Calfuccino is adding a lot of excitement to the manatee tank and that the other manatees are reportedly more active. She was swimming around a lot when we visited and was definitely not shy to say hi to guests! Calfuccino can be identified by her unique white markings on her face; she is also a little smaller and darker than the other manatees. So cute! We are already obsessed with her and are happy to learn that both she and her mom are currently thriving with care. You can see even more from Calfuccino right here: We will continue to bring you all the Disney World animal updates and news, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! Basko The Tiger Just Turned 2 If you are visiting EPCOT soon, check out some of our favorite snacks right 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 Will you be visiting Calfuccino? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

The clock is ticking — these Amazon deals won’t last forever! ©Amazon We keep up with ALL the latest Disney deals on Amazon, and there are some BIG-TIME savings to be had right now! From toys to suitcases to Crocs, you can save a boatload of cash if you know where to look. Fortunately, we’re showing the way and showcasing some of our favorite ongoing Disney deals! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We’re highlighting several deals, but you can view ALL OF THEM by visiting our Amazon storefront! We update this storefront throughout the week, so you can check out all the latest deals and savings today and in the future! BROWSE OVER 120 DISNEY SOUVENIR DEALS ON AMAZON Save a ton on these Moana Crocs ©Amazon There are a variety of discounts (based on size) for these Crocs Unisex-Child Disney Moana Classic Clogs! These clogs feature beautiful Moana and Polynesian-inspired imagery, and they even come with Moana Jibbitz charms, as well as heel straps that read “Chose You” and “The Ocean.” BUY ON AMAZON — 60% Off Save on these Croc Jibbitz ©Amazon Crocs Jibbitz add 3D flair to Crocs clogs, and right now, you can save 60% on these Up Crocs Jibbitz! They’re available in a pack of five and feature characters from Pixar’s Up, as well as the famous floating house with balloons. These Jibbitz are designed for a universal fit and snap on easily to Crocs of all sizes. BUY ON AMAZON — SAVE 60% You can save a whopping 50% on this Loungefly backpack ©Amazon This Loungefly Disney: Phineas and Ferb Mini Backpack lights up and is 50% off! This water-blue mini backpack features debossed details of Phineas, Ferb, and Dr. Doofenshmirtz. Of course, Perry the Platypus is front and center with a fun light-up feature! One side of the bag sports Candace, while the other features Isabella. BUY ON AMAZON — SAVE 50% Spidey fans will fall in love with this playset ©Amazon The Spidey and his Amazing Friends Rescue-Webs Web-Quarters Playset is currently 44% off on Amazon — a 90-day low! Inspired by the Disney Jr. series Spidey and his Amazing Friends, this set includes a 3-inch Spidey action figure and a Trace-E bot figure, as well as several fun accessories like a swinging fire pole, multiple vehicle ramps, and more. Your kiddo can use the elevator to get to the secret control room, press a button to launch the mini firetruck down the ramp, or press a button to drop Spidey into the truck! The set makes sounds and lights up. BUY ON AMAZON — SAVE 44% Playtime has never been sweeter thanks to this playset based on a classic Disney treat ©Amazon Right now, you can save 36% on the Melissa & Doug Disney Tropical Soft Serve Play Food Kitchen Set! Not a day goes by that we don’t think about DOLE Whip, and your kiddo can “make” their own at home with this set — which includes three pretend flavors, cups, a mini wooden spoon, a pineapple upside-down cake, a pineapple juice dispenser, a fun umbrella straw, a reusable and removable double-sided activity card menu, Mickey and Minnie Mouse play money, and even a bank card! BUY ON AMAZON — SAVE 36% Save nearly 50% on this cookbook ©Amazon The Disney Villains Hardcover Cookbook is currently 48% off on Amazon and is inspired by the characters we love to hate! It features simple step-by-step instructions and photos of each dish, which include 50 beginner-friendly recipes like Kronk’s Spinach Puffs, Gaston’s Chicken Drumsticks, Cruella Cookies, and many more! BUY ON AMAZON — SAVE 48% Make traveling to the Disney Parks easier with this discounted suitcase ©Amazon Right now, you can save 41% on this Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase! Finding a reliable carry-on that you can take with you on your Disney vacation can be tough, but this black suitcase checks all the boxes. It features spinning wheels, elastic straps, a divider, and a pouch that ensures everything stays neatly in place during your travels. BUY ON AMAZON — 41% OFF Get ready for the holidays with this Loungefly tote bag ©Amazon This adorable Loungefly Mickey and Minnie Holiday Convertible Tote Bag is currently 30% off on Amazon and is the definition of “festive”. It can switch between a tote and a backpack, and features an image of Mickey and Minnie sledding on a hill with Pluto! This bag also features a padded, debossed pattern with Christmas elements like stockings over the fire, a Mickey-shaped ornament, a Minnie-shaped present, and wreaths, as well as quilting on the sides showcasing evergreen trees! BUY ON AMAZON — SAVE 30% And there you have it! To stay up to date on all the latest Disney souvenir deals, keep it posted right here at DFB! View the full article

If there is one thing you can always count on at Disney World, it is that there will be new food to try every time you visit. New snacks and treats drop all the time at Disney World, and we make sure to review them all. Chocolate Sugar Skull So, you know exactly what’s worth your time and money on your next visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth, and we recently tried two treats at Disney Springs and are bringing you our FULL reviews. First up, we visited Frontera Cocina to try a new version of a snack that dropped several months ago, the Chocolate Sugar Skull for $32. This is a break-apart chocolate skull that is packed with rich chocolate, sponge cake, mousse filling, candied pecans, and an orange compote. Chocolate Sugar Skull The chocolate exterior leaned into a dark chocolate flavor, so the broken-up pieces added a deep, rich cocoa flavor without a ton of sweetness. The sponge cake was soft and fluffy, and the light mousse filling had a creamy and smooth consistency and subtle vanilla flavor. There were candied pecans scattered throughout, which added a sweet crunch; the nutty flavor also balanced the sweet chocolate flavor well. Chocolate Sugar Skull The orange compote had a jam consistency with a burst of fruitiness, which added a bright citrus flavor. The strongest flavor was chocolate, followed by the orange compote. This dessert was so much fun to break apart, and this would be a really great treat to grab for the whole family to enjoy! Chocolate Sugar Skull We also stopped by Gideon’s Bakehouse to try the limited-time Caramel Apple Turnover for $9. This was a flaky turnover filled with finely diced apples and topped with a soft caramel icing. The pastry crust was very flaky and broke apart with each bite to reveal layers of an excellent, buttery crust. Caramel Apple Turnover The rich, buttery flavors paired very well with the salted caramel from the icing. The caramel icing was subtle and barely noticeable on its own, but when combined with the sweetness from the apple filling, it worked very well. The apple filling had small, evenly diced pieces that were coated in a light cinnamon sugar. Caramel Apple Turnover This would have tasted better if it were served warm, but it was very tasty and a treat everyone in the family could enjoy. If you want to try this treat, you’ll have to visit Gideon’s by October 18th, since this is a limited-time offering. Caramel Apple Turnover We will continue to bring you reviews of all the newest snacks and treats that drop across Disney World, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! REVIEW: The $22 Disney World Treat We’re Going To Be Dreaming About For WEEKS If you want more Disney Springs tips and tricks, 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 Will you be trying either of these treats? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Every single Disney World veteran was a first-timer once, so we all know the common mistakes of a rookie in the parks. First Visit Celebration Buttons We’ve all stood at the tapstiles fumbling with a phone, stopped dead in the middle of Main Street to figure out which way Tomorrowland is, or realized around 3PM that our brand new shoes were a big, big mistake. Our reporters are in the parks constantly, and that means we see the same handful of rookie moves play out over and over again. And honestly? They’re totally understandable! Disney World is HUGE, it has its own systems, its own transportation, and even its own weather patterns. Nobody’s born knowing all of that. But a little know-how can save you a whole lot of time, money, and frustration, so here are the first-timer mistakes our reporters spot most often, plus how to avoid them on your trip. 1. Holding Up the Line at the Tapstiles For a lot of guests, the very first Disney World moment happens at the tapstiles on day one, and it doesn’t always go smoothly. A ticket that isn’t linked to the right person in the My Disney Experience app, a MagicBand that was never connected, a phone sitting at 3% battery, a ticket that hasn’t been activated yet… there are dozens of little things that can go wrong. And when one of them does, the Cast Member’s arm goes up to call Guest Relations over, and the line behind you quietly shuffles off to the next lane. Tapstiles It happens to plenty of people, and Cast Members are great at sorting it out. But you can skip the stress entirely with a little prep. Before you leave for the park, open the app and make sure every ticket is linked to the correct member of your party, double-check that MagicBands or phones are ready to go (and charged!), and decide ahead of time who is tapping in with what. Having everything out and ready before you reach the front makes for a much smoother start to your day. Have your ticket ready! 2. Wasting Time Trying to Figure Out Where to Go One of the most common sights in the parks? Groups huddled together, puzzling over a map or a phone, trying to decide where they are and where to go next. That’s completely natural when the parks are new to you, but those minutes really add up over the course of a day, and they can mean missing out on short waits or extra attractions. Main Street U.S.A. A bit of homework goes a long way here. Spend some time with the park maps before your trip so you have a general sense of how each park is laid out and which lands sit next to each other. Then make a loose game plan: knock out a few big attractions early while waits are lower, try to group attractions by area so you’re not zigzagging across the park, and keep an eye on wait times in the app as the day goes on. Your plan doesn’t need to be rigid (spontaneity is part of the fun!), but having a rough idea of your next move keeps the day flowing. And if you do need to stop and regroup, stepping off to the side of the walkway makes it easier on everyone. It’s on the map! 3. Wearing Flip-Flops or Sandals Without Cushioning We totally get it. You’re headed somewhere warm and tropical, and maybe you’re coming from somewhere that isn’t quite so sunny. Of course you want to wear your cute flip-flops and your favorite sandals! But Disney World days can easily rack up somewhere between 15,000 and 23,000 steps, and you’ll likely be doing that for multiple days in a row. Unsupportive footwear can turn into sore feet, blisters, and achy legs pretty quickly. Disney’s Hollywood Studios Comfortable, cushioned sneakers or supportive sandals are your best friends here, and ideally they should be broken in before your trip (not brand new out of the box on day one). It’s also smart to pack some blister bandages and consider bringing a second pair of shoes so you can switch things up. You can absolutely still be cute; there are plenty of comfortable shoes out there that look great, too. We Spent Thousands of Hours Testing Shoes in Disney World — Here’s What You Need To Know! Entrance of EPCOT 4. Not Wearing Sunscreen Our reporters see a LOT of visitors with some seriously painful-looking sunburns, and it’s almost always guests from out of state who simply didn’t realize how strong the sun gets here. If no one has told you yet, consider this your warning: the sun in Orlando is intense, and it can be dangerous. Long lines, outdoor queues, and walking between attractions all mean many hours of direct exposure. WEAR YOUR SUNSCREEN! Apply sunscreen before you head out, and reapply throughout the day, especially after water rides or if you’re sweating (which, let’s be real, you will be). Hats, sunglasses, and cooling towels can help, too. Remember that clouds and cooler months don’t make you immune. Sunscreen is sold in the parks if you forget it, but you’ll pay park prices, so it’s best to bring your own. Sun Bum Sunscreen 5. Eating at the WRONG Time It makes sense to eat lunch at noon; that’s when most of us eat lunch at home! The problem is that a whole lot of other guests have the very same idea. On a recent busy day in Magic Kingdom, our reporter found Casey’s Corner, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, and Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe all absolutely packed during peak lunch hours. Cosmic Ray’s Seating Instead, try grabbing a snack around 10:30 AM and then holding off on lunch until at least 2:30 PM. Even better, go a little later and have one bigger meal in place of a separate lunch and dinner. Eating off-peak can save you a lot of time and spare you the hassle of fighting the biggest crowds of the day for a table. Plus, it frees up more snack opportunities, and we’re always in favor of that. Seating 6. Carrying TOO Much Stuff We see so many families carrying what looks like a full weekend’s worth of supplies through the parks, especially those with little ones. And we understand why! When you’re traveling with kids, it’s natural to want to be prepared for absolutely everything. But lugging all of those “just in case” items around all day can leave you feeling worn out and weighed down, and it may not actually make the day more enjoyable. Our Disney bag is full of essentials! Try paring down to the true necessities for your bag. If you really want backup items close by (extra changes of clothes, spare snacks, etc.), consider renting a locker for your just-in-case stuff. That way it’s there if you need it, but you’re not hauling it from land to land. A lighter load can help you feel a little more free to wander and enjoy the parks. We always come prepared! 7. Not Having Rain Gear Florida rain can pop up fast, and good rain gear can truly make or break a day, especially in a park like Magic Kingdom where you spend a lot of time outdoors. We know ponchos and umbrellas are bulky, and we know there’s a chance you won’t need them. But when that afternoon downpour arrives, you’ll be SO grateful that you thought ahead. Our favorite poncho! A sturdy poncho or compact umbrella, plus a zip-top bag to keep your phone dry, can keep you comfortable and moving. And here’s a bonus: when the rain sends some guests heading for cover, those who are prepared can sometimes enjoy shorter lines. Rain gear is sold in the parks, but bringing your own will save you some money. Our Tips and Tricks for Conquering Rainy Days in Disney World Look at this rain! 8. Not Understanding the Transportation and Ticket Center Getting to Magic Kingdom is completely different from getting to every other Disney World theme park, and that catches a lot of first-timers by surprise. Reaching the parking lot does NOT mean you’ve reached Magic Kingdom. It means you’ve reached the place where your second commute begins. LONG lines for the ferryboat After parking, you may need to walk or take a tram to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), go through security, and then choose between the monorail and the ferryboat. You still have to wait for that transportation, cross the Seven Seas Lagoon, walk to the entrance, and scan into the park. Standard rideshares also drop guests off at the TTC, so taking an Uber or Lyft doesn’t eliminate that extra leg of the journey. Monorail entrance Disney resort buses, on the other hand, skip the TTC and drop guests near Magic Kingdom’s entrance, and some nearby resorts offer monorail, boat, or walking access. Before deciding when to leave, figure out exactly how you’re getting to Magic Kingdom and work backward from the time you want to be inside the park. Don’t base your timing on when you expect to arrive at the parking plaza or rideshare drop-off, or you may find yourself arriving a lot later than planned. Why 7:30AM Is STILL So Important in Disney World Monorail 9. Not Understanding Lightning Lane Multi Pass Lightning Lane Multi Pass can be a great tool, but buying it without knowing how it works is a mistake we see often. When you purchase it, Disney does not let you start with any three attractions you want. Instead, your initial selections are divided into tiers: you can choose one Tier 1 attraction and two Tier 2 attractions. Test Track Lightning Lane That makes that single Tier 1 pick the most important decision you’ll make before you ever enter the park. Before your trip, look at which attractions fall into Tier 1 for the park you’re visiting, figure out which one matters most to your group (and which typically has the longest standby waits), and plan your selections around it. A little strategy here can help you get much more value out of what you paid. Everything You Need to Know About Lightning Lanes in Disney World Kilimanjaro Safaris Lightning Lane If you spotted yourself in a few of these, don’t worry! First-timer mistakes are part of the Disney World learning curve, and the fact that you’re reading up before your trip means you’re already ahead of the game. A little planning around tickets, shoes, sun, meals, transportation, and Lightning Lanes can make a big difference in how relaxed and magical your vacation feels. For even more tips, tricks, and the latest Disney World news, stick with DFB, and we’ll help you plan like a pro. Disney Adults, I’m Going to Hold Your Hand When I Say This… 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 first-timer mistake did YOU make on your first Disney World trip? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Wait! You can get 40% off select Halloween merch right NOW in Animal Kingdom? This sounds too good to be true, but sure enough, on our last visit we found HUGE spooky season discounts. 40% Off Disney Halloween Merch So, now might be the best time to pop over to Animal Kingdom and grab some amazing Halloween deals, even though Halloween is still over a week away! Typically, as spooky season ends and the Holidays start to take over at Disney World, we will see select discounts start rolling in through the parks on any Halloween merch that did not get sold. However, it is rare for these discounts to start when Halloween is over a week away, and guests are still celebrating all things spooky in Disney. Minnie Ghost What’s even more shocking is that the Halloween discounts we found in Animal Kingdom were for 40% off! These are very high and really INCREDIBLE savings to find in Disney World. The sales we found at Animal Kingdom were on several of the Cutie Ghost collection light-up decor items. 40% Off Disney Halloween Merch We also saw 40% off discounts on the classic light-up Mickey and Minnie Pumpkins. More Halloween Discounts! And not only are these savings really great on their own, but we found out you can stack them with other discounts like Cast Member, Annual Passholder, or DVC, meaning even MORE savings. We love Annual Pass discounts! Now, if you are visiting Disney World throughout the rest of October, don’t forget to take advantage of all the spooky fun from the Mickey Pumpkins on Main Street U.S.A. to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party before the Holiday festivities take over in a few weeks! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party We will continue to bring you all the best discounts and news from across Disney World, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! 7 MAJOR Changes Coming To Disney World In November Now, if you visit Animal Kingdom to take advantage of these discounts, check out this video below to see the BEST snacks to try while you are there! 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 discounts? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

You can eat a lot of things at Disney World. Some are things you can find at home, like chicken tenders and cupcakes, while others are things you can ONLY find on property, like Satu’li Canteen’s Cheeseburger Pods or the Adventureland Cart Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Spring Rolls. Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Spring Rolls Here at DFB, we’ve tried EVERYTHING Disney World has to offer, so take it from us: We know what you should be eating on your vacation. While some people may hate on some of the most generic — or even the most popular — foods, we say to that, “IGNORE THEM” and eat them because they’re worth it! Crisped Rice Cereal Treats This may sound silly, but these Crisped Rice Cereal Treats are actually SO delicious. People don’t tend to recommend them because they are literally something you can find at the store, but don’t knock them until you try them. There is one rule you have to follow with these treats, though: DON’T buy the prepackaged ones. The ones in the bakery case are much fresher — that’s where the good ones are at! Cereal Treats They also come in a variety of flavors, so you don’t have to get tired of having the same treat over and over again, although we’re not judging you if you do! Right now, you can find the following at the Main Street Confectionery at Magic Kingdom: Mickey Cereal Treat with SNICKERS Bar Pieces Mickey Peanut Butter Cereal Treat with M&M’s Milk Chocolate Minis Classic Mickey Cereal Treat with M&M’s Milk Chocolate Candies You can also find several seasonal specials, like the Mickey Halloween Cereal Treat and the Minnie Witch Cereal Treat! Other places you can find Crisped Rice Cereal Treats include Goofy’s Candy Company in Disney Springs, Zuri’s Sweets Shop in Animal Kingdom, Karamell-Kuche in EPCOT, and several locations at the resorts. Mickey Crisped Rice Cereal Treat REVIEW: Is This Hard-to-Get Disney World Snack Worth $5? The GOOD Pretzels There is a plethora of places you can find Mickey-shaped pretzels at Disney World, but there are so many other spots where you can find better ones. Your mind may be tricking you since it’s Mickey-shaped and that may automatically make it taste better, but why not get the pretzels that are ACTUALLY better, like the Na’vi-sized Pretzel at Pongu Pongu in Animal Kingdom… Pongu Pongu Pretzel … the Jumbo Pretzel at Sommerfest in EPCOT… Jumbo Pretzel … the Bavarian Pretzel at BaseLine Tap House in Hollywood Studios… Bavarian Pretzel … or the Jumbo Pretzel with Cheese Sauce at Prince Eric’s Village Market in Magic Kingdom. This list gives you a better pretzel in each of the parks! Yes, they may be more expensive, but they’re also larger and better quality. Jumbo Pretzel Now, there is ONE Mickey-shaped Pretzel we actually recommend grabbing in Disney World, and that’s at Silver Screen Spirits Pool Bar at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort. These pretzels are actually made-to-order, which is SO cool! This guarantees the pretzel you’ll be getting will be fresh, and THAT’s what matters most. Mickey-shaped Pretzel REVIEW: We Spent $12 on a Disney World Pretzel, but We’re Here for the CHEESE! Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars You may be able to find Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars at your local store, but there’s really nothing more magical than eating one on Main Street, U.S.A. in front of the Cinderella Castle — just ask my dad. If you haven’t taken a trip in a while or if you live locally, you really can’t go wrong with this treat. So, ignore the haters telling you that you can get this at home — they don’t know the magic you can feel while eating them in the parks. Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar REVIEW: Custom Mickey Ice Cream Bars at Disney World?! Say No More. Corn Dogs, But Somewhere Specific When you think of corn dogs in Disney World, I bet your mind automatically goes to Casey’s Corner and their Corn Dog Nuggets, but we’re telling you to head somewhere else. The better corn dogs are actually just a short walk away at Sleepy Hollow. The Hand-dipped Corn Dog here has the perfect crisp on the breading and comes with house-made chips, which are DELICIOUS! We’d grab a corn dog here over Casey’s Corner every day. Hand-dipped Corn Dog REVIEW: A MASSIVE Cheese Stick Has Landed at Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, and We’re Obsessed DOLE Whip Anyone who recommends NOT getting DOLE Whip on your Disney World vacation should be sent straight into the Pirates of the Caribbean jail. This is one of the BEST and most classic snacks in all of Disney World. There is a plethora of flavors to choose from, and you really can’t go wrong with any of them, but if you’re getting DOLE Whip, you absolutely have to get the original pineapple — that’s actually the ONLY one my mom will eat because it’s the original! So, be sure to save room for it because it’s a must-get every trip! Pineapple DOLE Whip On your next visit to Disney World, IGNORE THE HATERS and put these Disney snacks on your must-eat list — you won’t regret it! Stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news, updates, tips, and tricks! And if you’re looking for the top 10 snacks for the best value, be sure to check out our video below! We Tried 24 New Disney World Snacks This Month, and the Best One Costs $10 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 must-get snacks when you go to Disney World? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

HURRY! Today is the final day to shop the RSVLTS pop-up experience in Disney Springs. RSVLTS Pop-Up RSVLTS is a very popular clothing brand known for making unique and fun Disney merch, specifically iconic button-up shirts that are amazing to wear in the parks. And their first-ever Disney Springs pop-up is almost over. The RSVLTS pop-up is happening this weekend only, Saturday, October 17th, and Sunday, October 18th, at the Marketplace Co-Op store in Disney Springs. RSVLTS Pop-Up Marketplace Co-Op Unsurprisingly, this limited pop-up has been extremely popular and is operating on a virtual queue system to help reduce the lines and crowds of guests hoping to buy some of this merchandise. Virtual Queue Here is a look at the merchandise available at the pop-up experience this weekend: List of merchandise When we went into the pop-up, it was VERY crowded as guests waited in line to shop the merch… The line is full! … and then also crowded in the actual shopping area. So many people in the RSVLTS pop-up So, if you want a chance to shop this merchandise in person, then make sure you head over to Disney Springs today, and don’t forget to try to secure a spot in the virtual queue. If you are unable to join the virtual queue, then you can always speak with Cast Members at the store, although that does not guarantee access to the experience. Given the popularity of this brand and the pop-up experience, we hope this will be the first of many RSVLTS pop-ups in Disney Springs! We hope this pop-up returns in the future! We will continue to bring you all the Disney World news, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! 7 Major Changes Coming To Disney World in November Check out our FAVORITE Disney Springs snacks 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 Did you visit this pop-up? Let us know your experience in the comments! View the full article

Heads up: If you’re heading to EPCOT in late October, the park’s hours are CHANGING for two days! Spaceship Earth On both October 23rd and 25th, EPCOT’s opening will be delayed by an hour. The park will open to the public at 10 AM each day, with Early Entry for Disney World hotel guests beginning at 9:30 AM instead of 8:30 AM, but it’s for a good reason. These delayed openings are due to the Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend. EPCOT is the starting and finish line for runDisney races, which in turn affects the park’s operating hours. The 23rd and 25th, respectively, coincide with the Wine & Dine 5K and the Wine & Dine Half-Marathon. ©Disney Of course, these runDisney-influenced alterations aren’t the only dates on EPCOT’s calendar that guests need to be aware of in October. The month also plays host to a large chunk of EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival, which runs from August 27th to November 21st this year. As always, the event — which is included in EPCOT admission — is loaded with foods from all around the world spread across the park. October even saw the final four booths at this year’s festival — India, The Alps, Earth Eats, and Coastal Eats — open on October 2nd. Seafood Pot Pie In addition to the food, the festival is well known for the included Eat to the Beat concert series. Scheduled acts for the remainder of October include: 18th: Jaclyn Hayden 19th – 20th: Ben Rector 21st – 22nd: Allen Stone (NEW) 23rd – 25th: SoundUp 26th – 27th: Lauren Alaina (NEW) 28th – 29th: Bowling For Soup 30th – 31st: Southbound Eat to the Beat Extended Evening Hours Extended Evening Hours offer two extra hours to guests staying at Disney Deluxe Tier or Deluxe Villa resorts at select theme parks on select evenings after the park closes to the general public. October’s remaining Extended Evening Hours offering for EPCOT is October 19th from 9 PM to 11 PM. World Showcase The Extended Evening Hours perk is available to guests at the following hotels: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney’s Beach Club Resort Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Disney’s Contemporary Resort Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village Disney’s Beach Club Villas Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Disney’s Old Key West Resort Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney’s Riviera Resort Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort (The extended evening theme park hours benefit applies to Disney Vacation Club Cabins only.) The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Walt Disney World Swan Hotel Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Shades of Green on Walt Disney World Resort BoardWalk Inn EPCOT is dealing with some runDisney-influenced changes to the park’s calendar in October. Stay tuned to DFB for more coverage of Disney World’s calendar. Before you head to the park, know EVERYTHING the Food & Wine Festival has to offer this year! These Disney Adult EPCOT World Showcase Hacks Are Getting Out of Control 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 Heading to EPCOT before the end of the month? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

It’s time to deck the halls and put on your favorite festive outfit because an ICONIC Disneyland treat is officially returning this Holiday season. Candy cane That’s right, the famous hand-pulled Candy Canes are making an appearance once again at Disneyland, but if you’ve never tried to grab one of these coveted Candy Canes before, you might not realize it is more difficult than you might imagine. So we are breaking down all of the details so you know exactly how to grab a Candy Cane this year! These hand-pulled Candy Canes are a fan-favorite offering every year, and it can get difficult to try if you don’t know all the details. Thankfully, Disneyland just announced the schedule for when these 18-inch Candy Canes will be available. Disneyland Candy Cane! Starting in Disneyland Park at the Candy Palace on the following dates: November: 27th & 30th December: 2nd, 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 22nd, 24th & 25th Then, over at Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure, they will be available on the following dates: November: 28th & 29th December: 1st, 6th, 8th, 13th, 15th, 20th, 22nd & 24th Disneyland Candy Cane However, securing one of these Candy Canes is more complicated than just visiting on one of the days they will be available. Supply is limited, and they sell out fast, which is why Disneyland has implemented a wristband that will be distributed in person for a chance to purchase a Candy Cane. There will be no Mobile Order option, and each guest is limited to only one Candy Cane per day. You can watch them being made! So, if this iconic snack is on your Disneyland Holiday must-do list, then make sure you mark your calendars for the dates they will be available and head to either location first thing in the morning. Rope Dropping is the best way to try to ensure you can get one of the coveted Candy Canes. Making the Candy Canes! Now, if you are visiting Disneyland during the Holidays, don’t forget to take in all the beautiful decor all over Main Street U.S.A. and make sure to watch the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” fireworks show and the “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” to really soak up every bit of Holiday magic in The Happiest Place on Earth. Christmas in Disneyland We will continue to bring you all of the Holiday news from Disneyland and beyond, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! Disneyland Confirms Changes To Massive Expansion Project If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, make sure to check out the video below to see the BEST snacks to try on your next trip! 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 ever tried one of the iconic Disneyland Candy Canes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! View the full article

Things are ALWAYS changing in Disney World, even if it’s not as noticeable as you might anticipate! Lately, it feels like the parks are entirely new places thanks to updates like Villains Land, Piston Peak, Monsters Inc. Land, and other new lands, but it’s not just about the major changes. Disney’s Hollywood Studios Each week, it feels like Disney is constantly dropping new information, details, and more! That’s why we like to do a weekly wrap-up of the biggest news with every detail so you don’t miss a single thing. Let’s dive into this week’s latest and greatest Disney news. It was a pricey week in Disney World, and some of the biggest news is even happening around the world! Lightning Lanes Hit Record High Prices The holiday season is right around the corner, and so are the crowds! Despite the fact that Halloween isn’t until next week, prices are already hitting highs when it comes to skipping long lines. We check Lightning Lane prices daily, and this week, we noticed that Disney World has raised prices of Lightning Lane Single Pass to new record highs, with multiple rides reaching their record-high per-person costs on Sunday, November 1st, 2026. Journey Into Imagination with Figment Lightning Lane The Lightning Lane prices for TRON Lightcycle / Run, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Avatar: Flight of Passage have all increased to the highest they’ve ever been, so it will cost you to skip the crowds. Those record highs are: TRON Lightcycle / Run — $25 Seven Dwarfs Mine Train — $18 Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind — $25 Avatar: Flight of Passage — $20 TRON Lightcycle / Run The previous high prices for these rides were: TRON Lightcycle / Run — $23 Seven Dwarfs Mine Train — $15 Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind — $22 Avatar: Flight of Passage — $19 The line for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train The only Lightning Lane Single Pass ride that did not increase in price is Rise of the Resistance, which has consistently been the highest-priced Single Pass at Disney World. It’s expected for Lightning Lane prices to increase during busier times around the park so that November 1st spike isn’t a huge shock. Test Track We’re selfishly hoping that these prices remain the high point even when the Christmas holiday rolls around! You can read the full breakdown below. BREAKING: Lightning Lane Single Pass Prices Reach Record High at Disney World We Got A New Look At Monstropolis The biggest changes in Disney World these days are the several new lands in development. Magic Kingdom has two, Animal Kingdom has one, and Hollywood Studios is working on the creation of Monstropolis! We’ve been following every change regarding the monsters, and this week we got a new look at the Glob Theater coming to the land. ©Disney The latest piece of updated art focuses on the theater, which will host the “Welcome to Monstropolis” show, a presentation hosted by Mike and Sulley that will “introduce humans to Monstropolis.” According to Chris Beatty, Vice President of Walt Disney Imagineering, “Sulley has been working on a small, homespun show, but Mike – ever the showman – has a few surprises up his sleeve that he thinks will bring down the house.” We did notice that the boxes look very similar to those that were present in the theater’s former occupant, Muppet*Vision 3D. ©Disney In addition to the concept art from within the show, Disney also released updated artwork showing a preshow room that’s dressed like a concession area, complete with a snack stand. Disney had previously shown concept art of this area, and the new updates include changes to the chandeliers, posters, and more. ©Disney The new land is opening in 2027, while the big coaster (the land’s signature ride) will be delayed until a later date. This concept art makes us seriously excited for the changes coming to the area next year! Close-Up Look at the NEW ‘Monsters, Inc.’ Attraction in Disney World MAJOR Disney Cruise Line News Finally, the biggest Disney news of the week was arugaly in Japan! In huge Disney Cruise Line news, the company confirmed the name of their first-ever cruise ship sailing from Japan will be the Disney Imagination. The new ship will set sail on its maiden voyage in spring 2029! ©Disney Disney has partnered with Oriental Land Company to create the new ship with sailings in Japan. The ship is a sister ship to the Disney Wish and “will feature many guest-favorite venues and experiences from that ship [the Wish] with select modifications specially designed with Japanese guests in mind.” They also confirmed that Ariel from The Little Mermaid will be featured alongside Sebastian on the ship’s stern as well. ©Disney This ship is a sister ship, so the layout will be recognizable to cruise line fans, but we’re expecting some major changes with the themeing on the ship. We have been eagerly awaiting more news on this ship, especially because of the partnership with the Oriental Land Company. For those who don’t know, OLC owns and operates Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, which have become some of the most beloved Disney parks worldwide. Fantasy Springs Arendelle castle in Tokyo DisneySea We are hoping for BIG things on this new cruise ship! Disney Reveals NAME of First-Ever Japan Cruise Ship Woof! Did you get all of that? It was a busy week (just like any other), and we are so excited for what’s ahead. As always, be sure to keep following DisneyFoodBlog for more Disney news, updates, details, and more. 6 Game-Changing Disney Announcements for 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 Which news are you the most excited about? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

I’ve been going to Disney World’s EPCOT Food & Wine Festival long enough to know a few things. Wear comfortable shoes, don’t fill up at the first booth, and ALWAYS get in line early for the popular food booths. Well, that last rule comes with a catch. And I learned it the hard way on my most recent trip. Food & Wine Festival I followed one of the most basic pieces of Food & Wine advice, showed up EARLY to beat the crowds, and somehow STILL missed out on the exact dish I came for. And the worst part? I actually SAW the food I wanted come out of the kitchen. Just a few minutes too late. The Unspoken Food & Wine Rule If you’ve spent any time at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, you’ve probably figured out that some booths are MUCH more popular than others. And one of the busiest? France. In fact, we named France one of the BEST booths at the 2026 Food & Wine Festival, thanks to its lineup of returning favorites and delicious new additions. 2026 France Booth But that popularity comes with a price. The line can get LONG, especially as the day goes on. So, there’s an unspoken rule among seasoned Food & Wine visitors: If there’s a popular booth you absolutely HAVE to try, get there early. Ideally, before it even opens. France booth crowds It makes sense. Get your must-have food before the crowds arrive, then spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the festival without wasting precious snacking time standing in line. I’ve followed this strategy plenty of times. Until France decided to teach me a lesson. Ten Minutes Early. What Could Go Wrong? On my most recent EPCOT visit, I made a beeline for the France booth about 10 minutes before it opened. I knew exactly what I wanted: The Trio d’Escargots, Garniture à l’ail et au Persil. For $9.25, this returning favorite features three escargot bites wrapped in croissant dough and served with a garlic-parsley dipping sauce. It’s one of the returning favorites on the 2026 France booth menu, and it was at the top of my must-eat list. Escargot I was feeling pretty smug about my timing, too. I had beaten the crowds, secured my spot in line, and was about to enjoy some buttery, garlicky goodness without spending half my morning waiting for it. Or so I thought. When the booth opened and it was finally my turn to order, I asked for the escargot. The Cast Member told me it wasn’t available. Excusez-moi? Cast Members Now, I understand that things happen. Food runs out, kitchens get backed up, and sometimes a particular dish just isn’t ready. So, I shrugged it off and ordered something else. Disappointing? Sure. But there were plenty of other delicious options on the menu. And then came the part that REALLY got me. The Escargot Betrayal After placing my order, I walked over to the pickup window to collect my food. And what did I see? A Cast Member pulling out an ENTIRE TRAY OF ESCARGOT. There it was. The exact dish I’d just been told wasn’t available. Escargot Apparently, the kitchen was running a few minutes behind, and the escargot simply hadn’t been ready when I ordered. Which meant that if I’d waited just a little longer to get in line, I probably could have ordered exactly what I wanted. Instead, I’d been TOO early. Trio d’Escargots, Garniture à l’ail et au Persil I stood there watching those beautiful little croissant-wrapped snails make their grand entrance, knowing I’d missed them by a matter of minutes. I could have gotten back in line, of course. But remember that whole reason I arrived early in the first place? Yeah. The line had already grown quite a bit. Line! And while I love a good escargot, I wasn’t particularly interested in spending another chunk of my morning standing in the France line. So, I walked away without them. I had successfully beaten the crowd and somehow lost the food. Make it make sense. So, Should You Stop Arriving Early? I still think getting to popular Food & Wine booths early is a smart strategy. In fact, it’s one of the easiest ways to avoid wasting time in long lines. But my experience reminded me that being first in line doesn’t guarantee you’ll get everything on the menu. Festival booths are working kitchens, and food preparation doesn’t always line up perfectly with opening time. Some dishes might be ready to go immediately, while others could need a few extra minutes. Food and Wine booths galore Occasionally, that means people who arrive after you get access to something you couldn’t order. It’s frustrating, especially when you’ve gone out of your way to plan your festival day around a particular dish. But I’ll do a few things differently next time. France Booth Spread First, if something isn’t available when I order, I’ll ask whether it’s sold out or simply not ready yet. If the Cast Member says it’ll be ready in five or ten minutes, I can decide whether it’s worth waiting. Second, I’ll pay a little more attention to what’s happening at the booth before jumping into line. If the kitchen is still getting things ready, giving it a few extra minutes might save me some disappointment. Finally, I’ll remember that even the best Disney World strategies need a little flexibility. 2026 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival We’ve shared plenty of advice about avoiding rookie mistakes at the Food & Wine Festival, but apparently, even experienced festival visitors can get tripped up by a tray of late-arriving snails. A Lesson Learned in France I’m not giving up my strategy of getting to popular Food & Wine booths early. The lines aren’t getting any shorter, and I’d still rather spend my time eating around World Showcase than standing around waiting to order. But next time, I’ll ask a few more questions before crossing a must-try dish off my list. Knowing the escargot were just minutes away from being ready would have changed my plans that morning. Instead, I got a front-row seat to someone else’s lunch. 2025 France Booth The good news is that the France booth has plenty of fantastic options, so even if your first choice isn’t available, you’re unlikely to leave hungry. But if there’s one thing I’m taking away from this experience, it’s that sometimes the difference between getting your favorite festival food and missing out is just a few minutes. Trio d’Escargots, Garniture à l’ail et au Persil And if you’re planning your own Food & Wine visit, be sure to check out our complete guide to the 2026 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival menus before you go. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more EPCOT Food & Wine Festival reviews, tips, and Disney World dining news! REVIEW: Please Forward All DFB Inquiries To THIS Newly Opened EPCOT Food and Wine Booth If you’re not sure what should be on your buy list for this year’s Food and Wine Festival, check out our video below — we ate EVERYTHING! Read More About the Food & Wine Festival FULL LIST Of Disney’s Biggest News: 3 MAJOR Updates Confirmed For Disney World2 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Booths Open THIS MONTHThe Disney World News We CAN’T Shut Up AboutThe Most Expensive Items You Can Buy With a Snack Credit at the EPCOT Food & Wine FestivalYou’re Going to LOSE YOUR MIND When You See What Disney Did to Tiny Train Town for the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival IT'S WINE & DINE TIME! Food & Wine Festival can be a bummer. You stand in line waiting for what looks like the perfect treat, and it's a bust. But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE EPCOT Food & Wine Festival experience. If you're planning a day or a week at the festival, we've got every performance, activity, and tasty nosh detailed out so you can make the most of your time and money. Listen, it's a tough job eating and documenting the nearly 200 bites and sips, but we do it all for YOU! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Learn More About the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival! Food and Wine Festival 101 Eat to the Beat Concert Updates EPCOT Food and Wine Festival - Fans Facebook Page Wine and Dine Half Marathon Details Get More Updates, Tips, and Tricks to Help You Conquer the Food & Wine Festival Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you ever gotten to a Disney World restaurant or festival booth only to discover the food you wanted wasn’t available? Tell us about your experience in the comments! View the full article

Not only will a NEW Disney World Hotel open in less than a year, but it will also be built on Bay Lake, joining the list of iconic Magic Kingdom area hotels. Lakeshore Lodge Preview We are SO excited to experience Lakeshore Lodge when it officially opens July 1st, 2027, but we don’t have to wait any longer for new details because Disney just dropped a model of the resort. On our last visit to Hollywood Studios, we took a walk through Walt Disney Presents, which often has special displays or previews of upcoming attractions, when we saw a large model of Lakeshore Lodge! Lakeshore Lodge Model So of course, we had to get a closer look and dive into all of the details we could find. Let’s start with the main pool area, The Wetlands: Pool Area This area is set to include multiple pools, a splash pad, and a lazy river. When looking at the big pool, we even spotted what looks like a treehouse water slide! Is that a water slide? Over at the splash pad, we were able to see more details on the large-scale animals in this space. This area is themed to Pocahontas, specifically the Herons and Otters referenced in “Colors of the Wind.” We saw a video several weeks ago where Imagineers were putting in the Otters, and in this model it looks like we can see a few Herons as well. Splash Pad It looks as though one Heron will even be poking their head out over the lazy river, which we also got a closer look at. We can’t wait for the lazy river! Moving past The Wetlands, we also got a closer look at several of the buildings of the hotel, including what looks like it might be the exterior of the lobby. Lakeshore Lodge Model We also got to see a look at the exterior of the rooms where you can see tiny details down to the balcony of each room! Lakeshore Lodge Model We also got a look at the exterior of the A-Frame Cabins that will be sitting on the edge of the water overlooking Bay Lake. Lakeshore Lodge Cabins Speaking of Bay Lake, we also saw the boat dock where guests will be able to board boats that will take them straight to Magic Kingdom! Boat Dock We also saw what could be one of the quiet pools and a hot tub that appear to be next to Bay Lake, and might offer beautiful views of the water while you lounge. Pool by the water We also got a few details outside the model, including three pieces of art set to inspire the artwork we will see inside the hotel rooms. Room Artwork Inspiration There was also more concept art…. Concept Art …and even a model and concept art of a sparrow, which might be one of the animals we see around Lakeshore Lodge. Concept Art This model just gave us so much new information and hidden details that have made us even MORE excited to visit Lakeshore Lodge. Booking is now open for this resort, so if you are planning a Disney World trip next summer and want to check out this brand-new hotel, you can book your stay right now through the Disney World website! We will continue to bring you all of the news from Disney World and beyond, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything. How Much Does Lakeshore Lodge Cost? Prices Revealed For New Hotel If you want more tips and tricks to create your perfect Disney World vacation, you can check out our video breaking down the ultimate 5-day Disney World itinerary right 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 Will you be visiting Lakeshore Lodge when it opens? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Yes, we’re enjoying the spooky vibes and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, but can you not hear the sleigh bells in the distance?! That’s right, the holidays are just around the corner, and Disney World is going to look completely different! Magic Kingdom on Christmas Day Crazy enough, October is almost over, which means it’s time to start thinking about next month. November might be the biggest month of the year at Disney World, because there are a ton of MAJOR changes that take place. From decor to parties to ride closures, here are all the big changes you need to know about for next month! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party officially begins on November 8th, with the special ticketed event taking place on select nights at Magic Kingdom through December 22nd. The Christmas party has a ton of special offerings, including entertainment like Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. The party will also give access to Magic Kingdom attractions (some with special holiday overlays), exclusive character meet-and-greets, festive treats, and free cookies and cocoa all night long! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Jollywood Nights begins! There’s another Christmas party coming to Disney World, and this one kicks off November 7th. Of course, we’re talking about Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The special ticketed event takes place on select nights through January 5th, so it goes on longer than MVMCP. Echo Lake in Hollywood Studios Jollywood Nights offers Holidays in Hollywood and a Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-A-Long. You can also enjoy exclusive character meet-and-greets, an ice skating show, Jazzy Holidays at the Hollywood Brown Derby, decor, and merchandise. There’s also the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! nighttime spectacular. Powerline Max at Jollywood Nights! Tickets for both Mickey’s Very Merry and Jollywood Nights are slowly selling out already, so if you want to go, don’t wait to grab your spot! Festival of the Holidays begins! While Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios have Christmas events that require a separate ticket, EPCOT will be welcoming back the International Festival of the Holidays for all guests. The 2026 Food & Wine Festival is scheduled to end on November 21st, but then the holiday festival will start on Black Friday, November 27th. The Festival of the Holidays has a lot to offer, including holiday food booths, merchandise, a cookie stroll, and holiday storytellers around the World Showcase. Figment Holiday Sweater Liege Waffle What we love the most about the festival is the Candlelight Processional. It’s a nightly event that features celebrity narrators reading the Biblical Christmas story, joined by a 51-piece orchestra, the Voices of Liberty, and a choir of more than 150 Disney Cast Members and community singers. EPCOT Candlelight Processional Holiday Decor around Disney World Honestly, the holiday decor at Disney World alone is enough to make going worth it. Each of the four parks will see tons of lights, garlands, festive music, ornaments, and a giant Christmas tree! Disney Springs will have its Christmas tree stroll, and it may occasionally snow (wink, wink). The most underrated part of the holidays at Disney World, though, is the Disney World Resorts. From trees to gingerbread facades, you have to make sure you hop from resort to resort, checking out all the decor. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort Holiday Ride Overlays There are quite a few rides that will look completely different in a month, as they get transformed with holiday overlays. Some we’ve seen before and some are brand-new. In Magic Kingdom, the Jungle Cruise will be changed to the Jingle Cruise, while the Tomorrowland Speedway will also get a holiday overlay. Both of those rides will be for general admission guests to experience. Space Mountain, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, and Mad Tea Party will have holiday ride overlays, but those will be EXCLUSIVE to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Jingle Cruise Over in EPCOT, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will be getting a brand-new holiday track from November 25th, 2026 through January 6th, 2027. The songs will 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 Also, Living with the Land will be transformed into Glimmering Greenhouses, featuring holiday decor and lights. Trust us on this one — you need to go at night! Both of these rides overlays will be available to all EPCOT guests. Glimmering Greenhouses Then, in Hollywood Studios, we’ll be seeing two ride overlays. Alien Swirling Saucers will change its intergalactic soundtrack to one filled with holiday-themed music. At night, Christmas-colored lights will light up the attraction. The songs on the ride will include Toyland, Deck the Halls, Swirling, Swirling Saucers, and Joy To The Swirl. The other ride is Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets: Obligatory Holiday Overlay, where the entire experience gets an overlay! Festive music will play throughout the courtyard, and the entire pre-show will change! Rehearsals for the holiday spectacular have begun, and a few familiar Muppets friends will stop by the studio to offer a helping hand. Three holiday songs will be used on the ride, including: Holiday Road – The Electric Mayhem ft. Kermit the Frog and Fozzie Bear Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) – The Electric Mayhem ft. Jennifer Hudson Silver Bells – The Electric Mayhem ft. Cyndi Lauper ©Disney Tiana’s Bayou closes You’ll be able to enjoy Tiana’s Bayou Adventure on November 1st, but then the ride will be temporarily closed. The closure begins on November 2nd, and it is expected to reopen sometime in December. Disney is calling this a “routine refurbishment,” so there shouldn’t be any major updates added to the attraction. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Typhoon Lagoon closes The WHOLE of Typhoon Lagoon will be closed next month. Throughout November and the following months, Typhoon Lagoon Water Park will be closed for refurbishment. Disney has yet to announce a reopening date for the park, but guests can still enjoy Blizzard Beach during the time of closure. Typhoon Lagoon Water Park There’s a lot to prepare for at Disney World this November, and if you couldn’t tell, we can’t wait for the holidays to arrive! For more Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog. Booking for EPCOT Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Is Open NOW Have a Disney trip coming up? Check out these 50 tips! 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 Do you have a trip planned for November? Let us know in the comments! View the full article