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We went to Machu Picchu, and we didn’t even have to leave Orlando! Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City Ok, maybe it wasn’t the real Machu Picchu, but we did get to experience the city in a cool and unique way! We recently got an exclusive preview of “Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City”, a virtual reality experience that was one-of-a-kind. Of course, we’re sharing it all with you. We got the chance to do an exclusive preview of a virtual reality experience called “Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City”, and it was awesome! The experience lasts approximately 45 minutes, and you can do your tour solo or with a group of up to six people. Let’s head to the experience! You can customize your experience in four different ways: Signature Experience: English, with Terry Crews British narration with documentary tone Spanish language Portuguese language Having this customization makes it diverse and enjoyable for everyone! We can’t wait! When placing the VR goggles on, there is a team member there to assist you, making sure the goggles fit comfortably and that you can see everything. There is a blue dot that comes on to make sure that your eyes are in focus, so it is not blurry, and everything is within the frame. Once you enter the VR, you’ll meet your tour guide, Teri, the AI robot who is voiced by Terry Crews. You also have a companion along the way named Larry the Llama — we loved him! VR Goggles The experience brings you back through Inca time and history. You’ll move around villages, landscapes, temples, mountain tops, and caves. This 360 VR experience is top of the line — words can’t express it, you just have to experience it for yourself. However, if you are prone to motion sickness, this may not be the best activity for you. Also, the illusion of heights can give you that butterfly feeling in your stomach as well. The VR space The creative team behind this experience actually went to Machu Picchu to get all the content used in the experience. They went during COVID when tourists still weren’t able to go, so there was nobody in any of the footage that they got. They use photography, videography, drone footage, and other types of technology. As of right now, this experience is only going through June, but they plan to extend it depending on how well it does. ©Machu Picchu There is also a new experience coming that brings you to space through a black hole. It may be around in July, but that’s a tentative date that has not been confirmed. At this location, they also have a glow-in-the-dark type of escape room. If you do the Machu Picchu Experience, it’s at the Florida Mall in Orlando, and it ranges from $25-$29. Make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog for news and updates on more unique and cool experiences! FULL TOUR: Two Hotels in One ON Disney World Property? Yes, Please! 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 Would you try this experience? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited to attend a media preview of the Machu Picchu Experience. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article

One of the best EPCOT festivals is coming up soon Pickle Milk Shake All year long, we look forward to the Food & Wine Festival, where we get to dive into our favorites that have been our staples year after year. While the menus haven’t been released for the festival yet, there are some of our tried and true that we wouldn’t be surprised if they come back again this year. Here are some dishes we’re begging Disney to bring back (but we already have a pretty good feeling they’re on the list). Roasted Lamb Chop — Australia Roasted Lamb Chop The Roasted Lamb Chop is flavored with mint pesto and topped with crushed salt and vinegar potato chips, and this is seriously one we go back for year after year. The lamb chop is thick, juicy, and the salty crunch on top is perfect. All the flavors work so well together, and for around $9, it’s a great savory, salty, herby dish. Belgian Waffle — Belgium Belgium Waffle with Berries Belgium offers two different kinds of waffles, one with a warm chocolate ganache and one with a berry compote and whipped cream, and we love them both. The waffle is light and airy with a crispy crust, and the toppings seep into the waffle. We tend to lean towards the berry one, but if you love chocolate, you might want to go for the chocolate. Pickle Milk Shake — Brew-Wing Lab Pickle Milk Shake You either love it or you hate it, but you gotta try it. This milk shake is dill-heavy, tangy, and creamy, and if you’re someone who drinks the juice from the bottom of the pickle jar, you’re going to need to add this to your “must try” list. Cheddar Cheese and Bacon Soup — Canada Cheddar and Bacon Soup The soup comes with a pretzel roll, which is definitely the best way to enjoy it. It’s creamy and super cheesy, and the bacon flavor disperses throughout the entire soup, making it totally delicious. The cheese is a good beer cheese, and the pretzel is soft and fluffy. Smoked Corned Beef — Flavors From Fire Smoked Corned Beef The Smoked Corned Beef comes with house-made potato chips, cheese curds, pickled onions, and beer-cheese fondue, and every year, we’re in love. The corned beef is tender and flavorful, and the pickled onions and cheese curds add a nice extra texture. That drizzle of beer cheese donfue ties everything together! Griddled Cheese — Greece Griddled Cheese This dish is part of Emile’s Fromage Montage, where you get to try different cheese-themed dishes across the festival and get an additional snack in the end. It’s topped with pistachios and honey, which provide an incredible crunch on top. It’s cheesy with that perfect hint of sweetness and is a great balance between sweet and savory. Slow-roasted Pork Slider — Hawai’i Slow-roasted Pork Slider The slider is served with sweet and sour chutney featuring DOLE Pineapple and spicy mayonnaise, and while it has been called different names in the past, it has the same ingredients. This is another amazing combo of sweet and savory with super tender and juicy pork on an incredibly soft bun. Mimosa Flight — Shimmering Sips Mimosa Flight Three drinks for one price? Say less. The flight usually includes a Berry Mimosa, Blood Orange Mimosa, and Tropical Mimosa. You can also choose the drinks individually, but we like to sample them all with a flight. It usually earns a spot on our Best of the Festival. Stone-baked Moroccan Bread — Tangierine Cafe Stone-Baked Bread with assorted dips Year to year, Morocco barely changes their menu, so we wouldn’t be surprised to find the exact same dishes this year. The bread comes with three different sips, and the bread is airy and easy to pull apart. It’s a solid staple when you don’t want to make anymore decision son what to eat. Fry Flight — The Fry Basket Fry Flight Sometimes the fries change up, but recently it’s been Truffle-Parmesan Fries, Sea Salt-Malt Vinegar Fries, and Sweet Potato Casserole Fries for around $8. They all have a variety of flavors while still having that iconic fluffy inside and crispy, salty outside. Getting excited for the Food & Wine Festival? We’ll be there on the opening day of the festival, bringing back all the tips and tricks along with the best dishes right here at DFB and in our Food & Wine Festival Guide. This is the most updated information with EVERYTHING you need to know to make the most of your visit. This is usually the time of year that Disney releases information for the Food & Wine Festival, so we’re keeping our eyes out for new details. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog so you can be the first to know. OUR FAVORITE DISHES FROM FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL FOR 2025 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! 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In these trying times, we all need something to give us some joy. And this little guy just restored my faith in humanity. This little green alien has our hearts! ©Disney In a recent interview to promote the upcoming The Mandalorian and Grogu film, movie stars Pedro Pascal and Grogu sat down with Star Wars to take a friendship test. Let’s just say their friendship was definitely tested! In this friendship test interview, we learned that Grogu was cast before Pedro Pascal for The Mandalorian, but he was the reason Pascal accepted the role! In response to “Who eats more snacks?” Grogu hurriedly pointed at Pascal, who bounced back, “You wish!” Looks like it’s trouble in the Razor Crest! ©Disney Luckily, they could both agree that “Who’s the messiest?” is a tie. In response to “Who takes more naps?” Pascal responded that he “Likes a nap,” but Grogu quickly interjected that he’s the winner. Pedro agreed in response, calling him a “good, honest boy.” We agree, Baby Yoda is the best boy. ©Disney But when asked who the better pilot is, there were some differing opinions. Pascal turned to Grogu while impatiently telling him, “I’m waiting,” as Grogu raised his hand! “Grogu, we talk about honesty,” Pascal lectured the alien, as Grogu blew a raspberry at him! For the last question of who’s more protective, they agreed that it’s a tie. Finally, no more fighting! To end the friendship test, they took an adorable selfie together. ©Disney Watch Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu only in theaters on May 22nd, 2026. In this sequel film to The Mandalorian series on Disney+, the evil Empire has fallen, but Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they enlist the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin and his young apprentice Grogu. ©Disney The movie is being directed and produced by Jon Favreau, creator of The Mandalorian, and director of previous Disney titles, including Iron Man (2008), Iron Man 2 (2010), The Jungle Book (2016), and The Lion King (2019). “I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created,” when the film was announced. “The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting.” ©Disney Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm and producer of The Mandalorian and Grogu, said, “Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into Star Wars two new and beloved characters, and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.” ©Disney We were already excited to see The Mandalorian and Grogu in theaters, but now we can’t wait. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney (but mostly Star Wars) news! “Temu Solo.” Fans Are Simply NOT Having Disney’s New Han Solo Character Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited to see The Mandalorian and Grogu? Comment below! View the full article

When it comes to finding where to stay on your Disney World trip, we know the struggle of wanting to stay on property, close to the magic, but looking at your bank account and going, “Well, this isn’t good.” Wyndham Lake Buena Vista We’ve been there, trust us! That’s why we highly recommend checking out the Disney Springs area hotels, like Wyndham Lake Buena Vista and Wyndham Garden, which are connected to each other. These ARE considered Disney World hotels, and it’s a fantastic way to stay close to the magic without completely breaking the bank. If you’ve been looking into the Wyndham, this is why we don’t think you should debate any longer! Wyndham Lake Buena Vista and Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista are both located just minutes from Disney Springs in Disney World. Staying here also comes with numerous perks that other Disney World hotels give you, like Early Entry, as well as free transportation shuttles to the parks, but all for a lower price point than other hotels on property! Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Staying here also gives you access to some pretty fantastic amenities, such as: Gym Gym Arcade Arcade Sundial (quick-Service snack/coffee location) Sundial Lakeview Restaurant (the breakfast buffet is available each day for $27 for adults and $10 for kids) Lakeview Restaurant Eclipse Eclipse Outdoor Pool Bar Outdoor Pool Bar We’ve also gotta talk about the incredible POOL! This isn’t just any ol’ pool — it’s also got some super fun interactive elements that other pools on the property only wish they had. Honestly, we think it outranks a lot of the Disney-themed hotels on property, so if you and your family are people who really want a great pool experience, this is one you can’t miss. Look at that pool! Thanks to its large size, in our experience, we’ve noticed that there’s plenty of space for everyone to spread out, which is essential to make sure you don’t feel too crowded. Now, during peak summer time, this may change, but it’s still much larger than many other pool decks on the property. Lots of space to spread out Where are you actually going to rest your head at night, though? Let’s dive into the rooms, starting with the most affordable of the bunch, which are located at Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista. This is a newer addition and is more “motel style,” where the doors are all on the outside. No need to worry, though — it’s very safe! Entrance door at Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista We got to check out a Wyndham Garden Courtyard View Two Doubles Room, which gives you a look out into the courtyard below when you step out into the outdoor hallway. You can even spot a hidden Mickey in the grass! These rooms usually cost around $239 a night. Our view from the room While the room isn’t the most spacious out there, it’s a great size for a family or group of friends who don’t need a lot of space. When we walked in, there was a chair immediately to our left that you could lounge in. The lamp right beside it adds some great light, or you can rely on natural light from the window. Chair off to the left If you’re concerned about no curtains, don’t worry, some blinds can be brought down for privacy! Blinds can come down! To the left of the chair is where you’ll find both beds, with a nightstand in between. Beds The nightstand is simple, but it has all you need — two lights (one for each bed), a drawer, and outlets. Plus, there’s a small chair on the bottom you can bring out, if needed. The nightstand has all you need! Across from the bed is where you’ll find the TV and a large dresser where you can keep your clothes and other essentials! Inside the large cabinet is where you’ll find a mini fridge to keep food and drinks cool. TV and dresser On the opposite side of the room from the entrance door, you’ll find the bathroom. It’s not overly large, and there’s not a ton of counter space, but you can put additional items below with the towels, if you’d like. The bathroom! In the closet on the right is where you’ll find the iron, ironing board, and hangers. Off to the left side of the bathroom is the commode room, which is also where you’ll find the shower. Inside the closet If you’re looking for something a little more elevated, you may want to check out the rooms inside the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista hotel, which is attached. These rooms usually start around $394 a night, but the entrances to all rooms are located in indoor hallways. The first room we checked out here was the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Disney View King. Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Disney View King This room is a bit more spacious than the ones over at Wyndham Garden, so if you need a bit more space, this is the way to go. Immediately to the left when we walked in was the closet, as well as the icebox. There are also additional cubbies for storage (great for everyone’s shoes!), and two hooks. The bathroom is immediately to your right when you walk in and includes a bit more counter space. However, the sink, shower, and commode are all in one room, so that’s something to keep in mind. Closet, cubby space, and coffee station You’ll find two nightstands, one on each side of the bed, both of which have outlets available for use. Two nightstands There’s also a small couch for lounging, as well as a blue ottoman in front of it that can be used as another seat, to rest your legs, or even used as a table, if you’d like. Couch for lounging The lamp nearby can be turned on for light, or you can use the natural light from the window and look out on your stunning view! Imagine sitting here and relaxing before a busy park day! This room has a view that looks out over Disney Springs, which is pretty gorgeous, if you ask us. There’s Disney Springs! On the opposite side of the room, you’ll find a desk with plenty of outlets, along with a comfortable desk chair to sit in… Desk and Desk chair You’ll also find the TV and a large dresser. The TV Inside the cabinets of the dresser, you’ll find the coffee station, the mini fridge, and plenty of empty drawers for your stuff. Coffee station! Finally, we got to check out the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Tower Two Queen Beds Room. Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Tower Two Queen Beds The size of this room is between the two we previously saw, but it is still spacious enough for a small group to move around in. The bathroom was immediately to the right when we walked in, and was very similar to what we saw in the King room — there’s more counter space, but the commode, sink, and shower are all in one room. Bathroom You’ll find a nightstand in between the two beds, complete once again with outlets, a lamp, an alarm clock, a drawer for storage, and the hotel phone. Nightstand Across from the beds, just like in the other rooms, is the large dresser with the TV. On one side, you’ll find a lamp on top with one drawer hiding the mini fridge, while the other, long, rectangular one has the coffee station. We also love the small square seats under the smaller drawers, to allow more space for seating, as needed. Dresser with TV Next to the dresser is where you’ll find the desk and desk chair. Desk While you’re not overlooking Disney Springs with this view, it’s still beautiful in our eyes! Our view! Overall, we absolutely think this is a fantastic spot to consider for your upcoming vacation, especially if you want to stay close to the magic with some of those hotel perks, but don’t want to spend TONS of money each night. We’ll continue to bring you all the latest and greatest Disney World news to help you plan for your upcoming vacation, so stay tuned to DFB! FULL TOUR: We Went Inside Budget Friendly Hotel SUITES In Disney World 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 Would you consider staying here in the future? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

When planning a Disney vacation, one of the most important things to consider is what you’re going to wear and how you’ll stay comfortable walking miles and miles in the hot sun. Magic Kingdom means LOTS of walking Blogilates has just released a new collection of their absoluelty adorable active wear, and it might just be the perfect way to rock a Disney day in comfort and style! Plus, moms and daughters can match, making it PERFECT for Mother’s Day! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Mommy & Me Princess Bow Back Dress ©Target This is a white athletic wear dress covered in the cutest yellow and blue flowers, perfect for Spring! This dress comes with built-in shorts, pockets, and an adorable bow that ties in the back! SHOP AT TARGET Blogilates Girls’ Mommy & Me Princess Bow Back Dress ©Target Now, the exact same white dress with blue and yellow flowers, but this time for kids! This is perfect for anyone, but especially for any moms and daughters who want to match on their Disney trip in these adorable and comfortable dresses. SHOP AT TARGET Blogilates Girls’ Mommy & Me Ballerina Ruffle Dress ©Target How cute is this pink ruffle dress?? This would be PERFECT for a day at Magic Kingdom, strolling through Fantasy Land and meeting your favorite princesses! This dress also comes with built in short and pockets. SHOP AT TARGET Blogilates Girls’ Mommy & Me Ballerina Skort ©Target Now this is a great option if you want the choice to include some actual Disney merch in the outfit. With this ultra-cute and comfortable skirt on the bottom, you can pair a Disney t-shirt on top. With a little blend of Disney and comfort, you can’t lose! SHOP AT TARGET Blogilates Women’s Mommy & Me Bow Back T-Shirt ©Target Not only is this shirt the cutest color with amazing lightweight material, perfect for a hot Disney day, but it is also reversible! So you can choose which way to wear it and change up the adjustable bow strap to fit whatever vibe you’re feeling! ©Target Now it’s a whole different shirt! You can choose which you prefer or wear it both ways! SHOP AT TARGET Blogilates Girls’ Mommy & Me Tiny Bows Shorts ©Target This color is SO cute! And these shorts are high-waisted, with 2 side pockets on built-in inner shorts, and little bows on the side! SHOP AT TARGET This collection is amazing, and there are so many ways to mix and match to find something so cute and so comfortable for your next Disney vacay! Make sure to follow Disney Food Blog so you never miss out on any great deals! View the full article

There’s so much fun to be had this summer at Disney World, but fans of a couple of Disney World restaurants won’t be able to visit for a few months. Yachtsman Steakhouse While there will certainly be no shortage of FANTASTIC dining options all over Disney World, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Yacht Club will both have some limitations due to scheduled restaurant refurbishments. We’re giving you the skinny on these closures and letting you know when you can expect them to reopen! First up is Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club — which will be closed for the bulk of the summer as it receives upgrades. Yachtsman Steakhouse The restaurant is currently slated to be closed starting May 11th and will remain closed until August 2026. At this time, no specific reopening date has been announced. Spread at Yachtsman Steakhouse Yachtsman Steakhouse is known for its excellent steak and tasty dishes like Creamy Lobster Bisque and the incredible Truffle Macaroni and Cheese. Truffle Macaroni and Cheese We’re bummed that we can’t frequent this steakhouse this summer, but there are still tons of fantastic dining options in the EPCOT resort area. The BoardWalk Staying at the Yacht and Beach Club hotels, Ale and Compass, Beaches and Creme Soda Shop, and Cape May Cafe are all excellent options that offer different dining settings, menus, and budget ranges for diners. Full Spread at Ale & Compass Over by the BoardWalk Resort area, there are also TONS of great options like Flying Fish, Trattoria al Forno, and The Cake Bake Shop! The Cake Bake Shop Bakery Over at the Grand Floridian, the Grand Floridian Cafe will also be temporarily closed this summer. This restaurant is slated for a refresh from mid-July into October 2026 — with a caveat. Atmosphere Brunch will still be offered during this time, but it will be featured at Citricos. Disney has warned that refurbishment work may be seen and heard during the daytime hours. Eggs Benedict The Grand Floridian is no stranger to refurbishments, as the lobby just received new furniture and carpet, as well as the new birdcage-themed bar, The Perch. The Perch The Garden View Tea Room also recently reopened with a brand-new menu and updated Alice in Wonderland theming. Children’s Afternoon Tea As for the Grand Floridian Cafe, it appears that only dinner service will be off the table this summer. This restaurant usually offers views of the rose gardens and courtyard pool, and serves up moderately priced American Classics. Brunch includes favorites like Eggs Benedict, the signature Grand Floridian Cafe Burger, and freshly prepared salads, soups, and sandwiches. Brunch is served from 7:30 AM to 2 PM daily. Mickey waffle with chicken? Yes, please! We’ll continue to keep you posted on all the latest Disney World dining updates and developments, so make sure you keep it posted right here at the Disney Food Blog to stay in the know! I Just Ranked the 20 Best Restaurants in Disney World, and This One’s a Little Controversial 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 favorite Disney World hotel restaurants? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

If you’re anything like us, then you’re wishing you could live way closer to the Most Magical Place on Earth. Well, now you can! ©HGTV Home network HGTV is giving away a smart home in Orlando, Florida, located only 30 minutes from Disney World. The $1.3 million home is completely free for one lucky winner — and now is your chance to enter to WIN it! This smart home is a resort‑inspired retreat where thoughtful tech meets bold, curated design built for sunshine, style, and effortless living. The 3,000 square-foot home has three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The living room features walnut hardwood flooring, craftsman-style built-ins that frame a brick fireplace, and a framed mirror conceals a television behind the glass! ©HGTV The open-concept kitchen blends cottage charm with relaxed coastal style. There’s a large eat-in island, a cozy table for four, and a mix of cabinetry for both discreet storage and open display. The large wooden island paired with oversized pendants gives the kitchen a custom feel, while wicker counter stools create an easy spot for casual meals or conversation. A generous farmhouse sink paired with a vintage-inspired faucet adds character to the kitchen, and a tablet propped on the countertop keeps recipes, playlists, and the day’s schedule within easy reach while cooking. ©HGTV The downstairs lounge is filled with ample seating, abundant natural light, and smart design details throughout. A standout feature in the lounge, the viewing wall includes four televisions that can operate independently or combine to form one oversized screen, perfect for game day! ©HGTV There’s an upstairs game room with lounge seating, game tables, and a large-screen TV. In addition, the house comes with a fully stocked beverage bar and snack station with a skee-ball lane. The game room’s biggest draw is a wall-sized sports simulator that transforms the space into an interactive play zone. From football and dodgeball to arcade-style challenges, players can step up and jump right into the action! ©HGTV The resort-style backyard features a massive pool with a swim-up bar! There’s a large inflatable outdoor projector screen for movie nights, and a 7-by-14 putting green for golfing at home. But the real star of the show is the outdoor kitchen with a grill, ceramic cooker, and beverage station beside the pool’s swim-up bar. ©HGTV Want a chance to win the house? Enter twice online per day — once on HGTV.com and once on FoodNetwork.com — for your chance to win the fully-furnished HGTV Smart Home 2026 along with a $100,000 cash prize. Click here to enter! Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news! This House Inside Disney World Just Sold For $14 MILLION Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this home? Comment below! View the full article

If you’re heading to EPCOT this May, there are some major changes to be excited for! EPCOT From a patriotic new take on an iconic attraction to returning character experiences and Passholder Perks galore, a bunch is coming to Disney World’s second theme park next month. Soarin’ Across America (Opens May 26th) In celebration of America’s 250th birthday this coming July, EPCOT’s Soarin’ will receive an “all-new airborne adventure across the US, honoring the heart and spirit of the nation.” ©Disney | View of the Grand Canyon in the new version of Soarin’ Disney even brought in “aviation” legend Patrick Warburton (IYKYK) to announce the overlay, which will be opening at Disney World on May 26th. GoofyCore Returns to CommuniCore (May 26th) As part of the Cool Kids’ Summer event (May 26th – September 8th), guests can “dance and play along with the Goof Troop, DJ Dance Pants, and Goofy himself during wacky activities at CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT. Goofy’s Game Machine brings silly, kid-approved games like Goofy Says, Balloon Bonanza, and Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks. LOTS of fun here! V.I.Passholder Days Exclusives Beginning on May 1st, Disney will once again launch V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days, a “summer celebration brimming with limited-time offerings and exciting perks just for Passholders!” and plenty of those perks are coming to EPCOT! They include: A new exclusive Woody and Buzz Passholder Magnet will be available for Passholders at the Creations shop from May 1st through July 31st. ©Disney Exclusive V.I.Passholder merchandise, including a Zip-Up Hoodie, a Tee, a Loungefly Crossbody Bag, a Baseball Hat, and even a Corkcicle Canteen, will be available at Creations Shop beginning May 1st. An exclusive Popcorn Bucket featuring a design from illustrator Ashley Taylor will also be available beginning May 1st at the Popcorn Cart in World Celebration, near the Creations Shop. ©Disney Finally, Passholders can even save big on dining, with 40% off at Biergarten Restaurant (lunch only), Coral Reef Restaurant (dinner only), and Garden Grill Restaurant (lunch and dinner) on Mondays to Thursdays from May 1st through July 31st. Biergarten If you’re making your way to EPCOT in May, be aware of these NEW and exclusive experiences! Stay tuned to DFB for more. 6 BIG Changes We Want for the 2026 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you heading to EPCOT anytime soon? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

We know most people have their preferred airlines to fly, for various reasons. For some, they like the perks they get with flying, the seating layout, or maybe there’s an airline that flies in and out of their city frequently. ©American Airlines For those of you who fly with American Airlines frequently, or have been toying with the idea of doing so, there’s something new on board that may get you even more excited to fly. The airline has just announced that there are now trading cards you can get for flying on board! Starting in early May, new commemorative trading cards will arrive on American Airlines flights! Customers can collect them from the pilots on their flights, and cards will become more widely available this summer. The cards will showcase four fleet types currently flown by American: the A321neo, 737-800, 777-300ER, and 787-9P. ©American Airlines However, to celebrate the airline’s centennial anniversary, there are also three special edition trading cards available that represent the DC-3, 707-123, and MD-80, three aircraft that helped shape American history. Each trading card has an image of the aircraft, aircraft specifications, diagrams, and facts about each aircraft, plus specific aircraft registrations that give more context and historical facts about past and present aircraft. ©American Airlines While trading cards will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, so sometimes your pilots may not have any, it’s always worth politely checking with them! Seven million trading cards will be printed in time for summer, so if you’re not able to get them in the early part of the season, by the latter part, there should be plenty to go around. More Recent Travel News! Something NEW Is Coming to American Airlines This Summer!NEWS: Europe To Further Crack Down on Carry-On Bag FeesNEWS: Orlando Ranked One of the LEAST Affordable Cities in the U.S.Why You Should “Reconsider Travel” To These Popular Island Destinations4 Carry On Bag Rules TSA Is Enforcing in 2026 We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest travel news this summer, so no matter where you’re heading, you’ll feel prepared. Stay tuned to DFB! The New Rules You HAVE To Follow In the Orlando Airport 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 planning to try and grab some of these trading cards? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Flying has changed a lot over the course of the last decade. Where airlines once charged just one fee for a flight, they now all pretty much charge for everything from choosing a seat, priority seating, checked bags, and even carry-on luggage. ©United Airlines However, some airlines, at least those that fly in Europe, are facing further restrictions on at least one of those fees. Europe is in the process of further limiting airlines in charging fees for carry-on luggage. According to France 24, the European Parliament adopted a position earlier this year that all airline passengers should be allowed one free personal item and one free carry-on up to 100 cm and 7 kg. However, the position stated that airlines could still charge for larger or extra bags brought onto an airplane. Now, though, the European Council wants to make those rules a little stricter. Luggage The new position is that a free personal item should be allowed up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm, which is basically the size of a bag that would fit under the seat. Airlines can still charge for larger bags, and they have the right to gate-check bags. This would apply to all flights in Europe, but also on flights departing the European Union (which includes flights headed to the U.S.). Luggage However, low-cost airlines can often offer low airfares due to these additional fees. Some airline industry experts warn that this could drive up the cost of airfares for those airlines. Regardless, negotiations are underway with members of the European Council, and an agreement on the new rules could be reached over the next few months. We’ll keep an eye on the rules surrounding carry-on bags in Europe and keep you updated, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Destination: Disney World! Flying To and From Orlando International Airport (MCO) 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? Would you like to see similar rules applied to flights in the U.S.? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We finally have an opening timeline for Disney World’s newest hotel. We got our first look INSIDE the queue for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets—and trust me, the Easter eggs are everywhere, and I’ve also got some really sad news about a ride closure happening over at Tokyo DisneySea. Check out the latest news! All of the latest Disney and theme park news is coming up right now on DFB Guide. Check out our video below: Latest Disney News: OPENING TIMELINE for New Hotel, INSIDE LOOK at Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster & More! https://youtu.be/iuwJw6DyJ0M 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 do you think of this video? Tell us in the comments. View the full article

It’s been a while, but Virtual Queue is coming back to Disney World in ten days! Hollywood Studios Can you feel that? The force has been getting stronger as we get closer to May the Fourth! May the Fourth is getting closer and closer, and Star Wars fans already have Disney’s Hollywood Studios booked. Star Wars Day is going to bring exclusive snacks and merchandise to the park, and we’re excited to check it all out. Another thing the day is bringing is a virtual queue, something we haven’t seen at Disney World for a little bit. Let’s take a look at the details! We LOVE May the 4th at Disney World, and Disney goes all out to celebrate Star Wars at Hollywood Studios. After all, who doesn’t want to celebrate Star Wars?! Of course, we love gathering with all the fans and trying out the unique snacks and drinks. However, our favorite thing might be the exclusive merchandise — and we know we’re not alone in that feeling! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge When it comes to exclusive merchandise for Star Wars Day, it’s no secret that EVERYONE is going for it — literally everyone! So, Disney World is bringing back the virtual queue to make buying merch a little less chaotic. Both Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney Springs will have a virtual queue in place for their May the 4th merchandise events. Savi’s Workshop You’ll need to join the virtual queue via the My Disney Experience App. That will allow you to participate in the May the 4th merchandise event virtual queues that will be in place at select locations at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney Springs. Stormtroopers! If you’re hoping to join the virtual queue for merchandise at Hollywood Studios, you’ll need a valid theme park admission and reservation (if applicable). You can request to join the Disney’s Hollywood Studios virtual queue starting at 7 AM ET on May 4th, 2026. Droid Depot merchandise If you aren’t going to Hollywood Studios and you want to shop at Disney Springs, that virtual queue will open starting at 9 AM on May 4th, 2026. Disney Springs! At Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ event, you can enjoy the convenience of mobile checkout for merchandise. Just check to see what’s available in the My Disney Experience app while shopping, and scan merchandise items as you shop to pay right on your phone. It makes for a pretty smooth shopping experience. Hollywood Studios If you’re looking to get some Star Wars merchandise beforehand, so you have a fit for the big event, you’ve got to check out the online Disney Store. They have some pretty cool stuff that we’d consider to be the best in the galaxy! Check out this X-Wing Sweater. ©Disney Store Or, these Skywalker Pod Racing Jackets… ©Disney Store …and these Rebel and Imperial Jerseys! ©Disney Store There’s a lot more Star Wars merchandise online if you check out the Disney Store, so we think you should see if there’s anything you’d like to wear for the celebration. We’re looking forward to it! For more Disney news and updates, make sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog. Disney Doubles Down on Enforcing This Annual Pass Rule 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 going to the parks on May the Fourth? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Time is running out to visit one of America’s most beloved regional amusement parks! @wildwavespark on Instagram Over the last 50 years, Wild Waves Theme & Water Park — located in the Seattle-adjacent Federal Way, Washington — has gone by many names (Enchanted Village, Enchanted Parks, Wild Waves and Enchanted Village, Wild Waves Theme Park, and Wild Waves and Enchanted Village) and been owned by several owners (including Six Flags for a period in the 2000s) but through it all it has remained a constant in the lives of coaster amusement park fans in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. However, that’s all changing this coming fall. In a press release from December of 2025, the park’s current owners, Premier Parks, confirmed that the 2026 operating season — which begins on May 23rd — would be the park’s last, and that its closure would be effective as of November 1st, 2026. As of the 2026 season, Wild Waves employs about 35 full-time staff and around 800 seasonal workers each year, who operate the park’s summertime water attractions, classic thrill rides, and Fright Fest in October. @wildwavespark on Instagram In the press release, Kieran Burke, President and Owner of Premier Parks, said that the company was thankful for “guests, team members, and the community of Federal Way for supporting Wild Waves and creating so many thrills and great memories with families and friends.” Burke went on to explain that the “rising cost of ongoing operations since reopening after the COVID shutdown has generated millions in losses, which forces us to discontinue operations at the end of our 2026 season.” According to Premier, all previously purchased 2026 group events, season passes, and ticket packages will be fully honored, and the “full and vibrant” 2026 season will feature all of the park’s classic rides remaining operational and even a Fright Fest in the fall, ending on the park’s final day despite the forthcoming closure. Furthermore, the company says that the park’s final year of operation will celebrate “the memories, nostalgia, and family fun” it has brought to millions with themed events and special promotions. After 50 years of welcoming guests in the Pacific Northwest, Wild Waves Theme & Water Park is set to make one final season of memories before closing for good this November. Stay tuned to DFB for more on the amusement park industry. Why Fans Are Still OBSESSED with This Universal Orlando Ride 18 Years After It Closed 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 any memories of Wild Waves Theme & Water Park? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

While Disney World is full of lots of closures and construction projects right now, and sometimes it feels like no progress is being made, the truth is that things ARE moving along, and every now and then, we get a glimpse at that! There’s a NEW pool in Disney World! This past week, a pretty big project at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort finished up, resulting in a NEW pool that guests can enjoy! That’s not all, though, because we also got new updates on some of the big projects going on in the parks, and with each passing week, we’re moving closer and closer to those walls coming down. Some of the biggest news that happened this past week is that Fort Wilderness Resort opened up its new pool! While the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool is still under some refurbishment, this new pool allows guests to go for a swim in a new area. It’s surrounded by the woods, along with tons of boulders, and there’s even a wagon sitting next to the water that has a fun nod to River Country, Disney’s old water park. The new pool! Don’t be fooled, though, because there are still plenty of closures happening around the parks right now that you should know about if you’re heading to Disney World this week. Don’t worry, we’ve got the whole breakdown for you! Let’s take a look at the other closures taking place from April 25th through May 1st. Magic Kingdom Storybook Circus Pete’s Silly Sideshow is temporarily unavailable as of January 4th, 2026. This is the Storybook Circus meet and greet area, where you can meet Donald Duck, Goofy, Daisy Duck, and Minnie Mouse as they join the circus. Good news, though! While Pete’s Silly Sideshow will be closed, you can still meet all of the characters! You will find Goofy and Minnie at the entrance to Storybook Circus, and you can find Donald and Daisy in the back of Storybook Circus by the restrooms. Pete’s Silly Sideshow However, now there’s ANOTHER closure in the land as well. Big Top Souvenirs closed on February 20th, and Disney has said it’ll “reopen for guests to enjoy later this year,” but there’s no date in sight. When we stopped by recently, we noticed that the entire top of the store is GONE right now! Talk about a jumpscare! The tent disappeared! We’re really curious to see how this all turns out, so we’ll keep you updated! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad On January 6th, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed for an extended temporary closure. We’ve been waiting for the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” to reopen for quite some time, but now we know it’ll be back open starting May 3rd! The ride will be undergoing maintenance while it is closed. When it reopens, it will have some “new magic,” according to Disney. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Disney announced some of the new magic! Riders will see “spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools, shimmering and illuminating iridescent stalagmites (the ones on the floor) and stalactites (the ones on the ceiling)” — the Rainbow Caverns! We can’t wait to see what other changes might be coming to this ever-popular roller coaster! We spotted some ride testing, which was very exciting. Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island An iconic part of the Magic Kingdom is now permanently closed. As of July 7th, 2025, the Rivers of America, including the Liberty Square River Boat and Tom Sawyer Island, are permanently closed to make way for the new Cars area, Piston Peak. There are lots of construction walls up in the area now, and the structures on Tom Sawyer Island have been demolished. Most recently, we saw some updates to the concrete on the land, as well as leveling taking place for the new attractions — how exciting! Piston Peak construction Piston Peak National Park will be replacing this area of Magic Kingdom. Disney has not yet announced an opening date for the new Cars area, but we do know it will feature two brand-new attractions and be themed to look like a National Park. When Do Tickets for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2026 Go On Sale? Disney’s Hollywood Studios Vacation Fun Disney just recently announced that Vacation Fun, the short film that plays throughout the day in the Mickey Shorts Theater, will close for refurbishment beginning on April 29th. Vacation Fun Fortunately, the closure won’t last long, as Disney revealed the reason is that the theater will host a special May 4th Star Wars merchandise event. We can assume this means that experience will open on May 4th, but it’s unclear when the regular theater showings will resume. Animation Courtyard Animation Courtyard closed on September 25th, 2025, to make way for Walt Disney Studios. This new area will open on May 26th, 2026, and will be a special nod to the Walt Disney Studios lot. Star Wars Launch Bay will be turned into The Magic of Disney Animation. This attraction will have you interacting and exploring with this fun take on Disney Animation headquarters, complete with the return of the Sorcerer Mickey hat! Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat is back! However, most recently, we’ve seen a lot of progress on this upcoming land — new pavement is almost all set, and it’s really starting to come together. This area will also feature a new Drawn to Wonderland indoor play area and the current Disney Jr. Play and Dance! show will be getting a makeover. It’ll turn into Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live, and we just recently got confirmed showtimes for the new experience, which will open on May 26th. During the transformation, you will still be able to visit “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and Walt Disney Presents. Muppets Courtyard Muppet*Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo closed on June 8th, 2025, and Muppets Courtyard has been walled off for construction on the new Monsters, Inc. land. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano has been closed since May 11th, 2025. Most recently, we got a good look at the former Muppet*Vision 3D building, which is very gray! ©Bioreconstruct Don’t worry, the Muppets won’t be missing from Disney’s Hollywood Studios forever. The Muppets will be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster this summer! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets will open on May 26th, 2026! This new ride will feature iconic Muppets like Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Gonzo, plus a brand-new soundtrack featuring Def Leppard, Kelly Clarkson, and Jennifer Hudson! The Muppets are moving in! Disney has already made tons of progress on the new version of this iconic attraction! The previous name of the ride has already been removed from multiple locations, including on the guitar, which is now behind the scrim and scaffolding. Disney is also already putting new paint on the car at the entrance to this area to transform it into the Electric Mayhem’s iconic van! Most recently, we also got a look at the queue area for the new ride, which has us very excited. ©Disney We’ve only got a few more weeks to go, and you can bet we’re counting down! Why You’ll Have To Ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Over And Over Again EPCOT Refreshment Port Refreshment Port located near the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase closed for refurbishment on January 12th. We’ve heard nothing on it for months, but now, we know that when it reopens, it’ll become La Poutinerie! La Poutinerie Concept Art ©Disney The spot will be sponsored by Air Canada, and promises to deliver “a Canadian classic with a twist.” Disney hasn’t announced an opening date or a menu, but we’re hoping our favorite poutine will come back any day now! Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along and Impressions De France For weeks now, Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along and Impressions De France have been closed in the France Pavilion, but now we’ve got a reopening date! Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along and Impressions de France Theater Both shows will return to the park beginning on May 10th. How to Guarantee a Perfect Day in EPCOT in Under Five Minutes Disney’s Animal Kingdom Rafiki’s Planet Watch On February 23rd, Disney temporarily closed Rafiki’s Planet Watch and the Wildlife Express, which takes guests over to this part of the park, to make way for the new Bluey attraction coming to the park for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER on May 26th. For the time being, you can still visit the Wilderness Explorer badge offerings, as well as a few character meet and greets, at the train station. Rafiki’s Planet Watch is officially closed Bluey’s Wild World will become a permanent addition to the park, where you can meet Bluey and Bingo, play games with them, and even pet animals from Australia in the petting zoo, Jumping Junction! DinoLand, USA On February 2nd, DinoLand, USA officially closed to make way for the new Tropical Americas land, Pueblo Esperanza. Most recently, a new permit was filed for the new Encanto ride to install set elements, and nine new permits were filed today for electrical work. ©Disney || Tropical Americas Land coming to Animal Kingdom This new land is shaping up nicely! It will have three new rides – a carousel featuring classic Disney animals, an Indiana Jones ride where you’ll explore a Mayan temple, and an Encanto ride that invites you into the Madrigal’s home! Most recently, we saw Disney file TONS of permits for the attractions going into this new land, which means that things are certainly moving along. Disney World Is Getting NEW Annual Passholder Perks! Typhoon Lagoon On February 15th, 2026, Blizzard Beach reopened in Disney World, and Typhoon Lagoon closed for refurbishment. Typhoon Lagoon will reopen again on May 12th, 2026! Typhoon Lagoon For the majority of the summer, we’ll have both water parks open again. Typhoon Lagoon is Disney’s oldest water park with fun for both kids and kids-at-heart, plus one of the largest wave pools in the world. It’s themed to be a tropical paradise that just survived a typhoon. Disney CONFIRMS This Hotel Perk Will Return in 2027 Disney World Hotels Righteous Reef Playground — Disney’s Art of Animation Resort On April 20th, Disney temporarily closed the Righteous Reef Playground at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This is located in the Finding Nemo section of the resort, which features Squirt with coral-reef slides. Righteous Reef Playground Fortunately, we don’t have to wait long for this closure to be complete, as it’s set to reopen on April 28th. Kiddie Pool Deck — Disney’s Pop Century Resort Disney recently announced that the Kiddie Pool Deck at Disney’s Pop Century Resort will close for refurbishment beginning April 13th. Kiddie Pool Deck There’s no reopening date for the pool right now, but the current timeline is through the end of April. During the closure, every pool at the resort, minus the Kiddie Pool Deck, will remain open. Boat Dock — Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Beginning on April 13th and lasting through May 1st, the boat dock at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will be closed for refurbishment. While maintenance to the dock will last until late July 2026, boats should begin running again by May 2nd. Construction at Wilderness Lodge During this closure, the only way to get to Magic Kingdom (as well as all other locations on property) from this hotel will be by bus, unless you have your own car, so you’ll want to allow a little more time due to the higher crowds! Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa This hotel has been undergoing refurbishments for quite some time now, but some sections of the hotel — specifically the porte cochere — will continue to undergo refurbishment through at least early 2027. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort We certainly hope it’ll actually reopen on this timeline — we’re a little tired of seeing construction all over this beautiful hotel! Bay Cove Pool Area — Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort The Bay Cove Pool, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort are temporarily closed for maintenance. Bay Cove Pool construction sign From January 26th through early May 2026, the pool area will be unavailable. During the closure, guests can still use the Bay Lake Pool, the feature pool, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort For those looking to dine at this hotel, you need to know that the Turf Club Bar & Grill and Turf Club Lounge will both be under refurbishment from mid-March through mid-September 2026. Turf Club Bar & Grill In early April, the Turf Club Lounge will close for refurbishment and will reopen in early August. In the meantime, the Turf Club Bar & Grill will remain open with a pop-up bar serving a modified Lounge food and beverage menu. Then, from early to mid-August, the Turf Club patio will close for refurbishment, and finally, from mid-August through mid-September, the Turf Club Bar & Grill will be closed for refurbishment, but the Turf Club Lounge will be open. Leisure Pools — Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort Disney’s Yacht Club and Disney’s Beach Club Resort are currently undergoing visible exterior maintenance. The maintenance could affect views and may require alternate routes at times. In addition, two of the resort’s leisure pools will close for routine maintenance. Tidal Pool At Disney’s Yacht Club, the Admiral leisure be will be closed for maintenance through early May 2026. At Disney’s Beach Club, the Tidal leisure pool will be closed for maintenance through early May 2026. Guests may see or hear construction work, but it will only be done during the daytime hours. Crew’s Cup Lounge — Disney’s Yacht Club Resort On February 23rd, Crew’s Cup Lounge closed for refurbishment and will reopen on June 1st, 2026. Yachtsman Steakhouse Additionally, Yachtsman Steakhouse will close for refurbishment on May 11th, meaning these closures will overlap for a few weeks. It’s expected to reopen sometime in early August. Promenade Fine Art Gallery — Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Resort The Promenade Fine Art Gallery closed its Disney’s BoardWalk location on October 20th, 2025. However, the Promenade Fine Art Gallery isn’t closing for good, and it will just be moving to a new location. Promenade Fine Art Gallery The gallery hasn’t announced yet where that new location will be, but we will keep you updated as we learn more! Jellyrolls — Disney’s BoardWalk Jellyrolls at Disney’s BoardWalk officially closed on April 19th, 2025. This entertainment venue has provided our team with countless memories, and we know many others are also sad to see it close. Jellyrolls had its final farewell performance on April 19th. 2025 and closed its doors forever on Disney’s BoardWalk. Jellyrolls Now, we know that Jellyrolls will be moving to a new location about 10 minutes away, and a grand opening is planned for late summer or fall 2026. We also know that the new location will have free parking, be closer to the space that the original Disney location was in, and allow people to be dropped off and picked up by rideshare services right at the front door. We Just Got a FIRST LOOK Inside Disney World’s NEW Hotel We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World news, so stay tuned to DFB! We’re Embarrassed To Admit This Disney Essential Actually Works (and We Bought 2 More) 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 When is your next Disney World vacation? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

There are lots of perks to being a Disney Vacation Club member. Sometimes it’s a little difficult to understand the fine print, what it all really gets you, and if it’s worth it in the long run, but one of the perks people really enjoy is getting access to a discounted Annual Pass rate. EPCOT DVC lounge! Unfortunately, you don’t get a FREE Annual Pass with your very expensive DVC membership, but many members do appreciate the discounted rate on the Sorcerer Pass, which is the second-highest tier on the passholder program. However, it’s important to note that Disney recently changed their wording to crack down on WHO exactly can get this discounted pass. Recently, Disney adjusted the wording on their page to reflect a crackdown on WHO can purchase a discounted Sorcerer Pass with a DVC membership. The wording USED to say, “To purchase the Disney Sorcerer Pass, Disney Vacation Club Members must be eligible for Membership Extras. Membership Extras are incidental benefits — these offers are subject to availability, change or termination and may require a fee.” Map for Hollywood Studios Moonlight Magic However, the new wording has some very important distinctions. The NEW wording now reads, “To purchase the Disney Sorcerer Pass, Disney Vacation Club Members must be eligible for Membership Extras. Passes may only be purchased by eligible Members for themselves and their immediate family living in their household, up to a total of eight (8) per year. Annual pass offers are not part of the ownership interest and are an incidental benefit subject to availability, change or termination.” Disney Vacation Club This means that you won’t be able to purchase a Sorcerer Pass for extended family members or any family members who are living outside of your home. If you happen to have a large immediate family, one where eight passes wouldn’t be enough, you’re also going to be out of luck. Disney World Annual Pass It’s important to remember, though, that the Sorcerer Pass DOES still have blockout dates, mostly during holidays, and currently costs $1,099 + tax without the DVC discount. You can hold up to five reservations at a time, which is a big help for those who are coming in from out of town. There are Good to Go days, though, where no Annual Passholders need a reservation, so keep an eye out for those if you’ve already used up your five reservations. More Recent Disney Vacation Club News! Disney Doubles Down on Enforcing This Annual Pass RuleI Stayed at the Luxury Hotel Disney Fans Dream About — 7 Things Impressed Me the Most7 NEW Perks Announced for Disney Fans This MonthIf You Want To Win A Disney Vacation, Click HEREWe’re Not Gatekeeping This Secret Way To Get Extra Time in EMPTY Disney World Parks! We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest and greatest news in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB! Annual Passholders and Free Disney World Dining Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW How do you feel about this change? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Everyone’s favorite toys are coming BACK in Toy Story 5, releasing in theaters on June 19th, and to celebrate, Disney is releasing new Toy Story 5-inspired products soon! ©Disney Next week, Disney will kick off the ultimate countdown to Toy Story 5’s big-screen debut with “Roundup Reveal Week,” a week-long celebration featuring daily product reveals and teasers spotlighting exciting collaborations from global brands! We’ve got a sneak peek and all the details you need to know, so let’s get into it. The lineup of fan-favorite brands joining in on the Toy Story fun includes personal care brand Dr. Squatch (and Jukebox by Dr. Squatch), which is bringing favorite Disney and Pixar Toy Story characters to life in a brand-new collection ahead of the movie’s release in June. ©Disney x Dr. Squatch The collection features Dr. Squatch’s iconic natural bar soap and natural deodorants for men and women in new scents inspired by Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie — known as Howdy Hero, Cosmic Captain, and Cowgirl Courage, respectively. You can see a sneak peek of Howdy Hero featuring Woody below… ©Disney x Dr. Squatch …along with Cosmic Captain featuring Buzz Lightyear… ©Disney x Dr. Squatch …and Cowgirl Courage featuring Jessie! ©Disney x Dr. Squatch But, Dr. Squatch isn’t the only brand joining in on the fun — and we can’t wait to see what other iconic names will be featured in this new collaboration. What better way to celebrate the new movie than by bringing some of the fun into your home?! ©Disney x Dr. Squatch We’ll be on the lookout for even more Roundup Reveal Week updates you need to know about as we wait for Toy Story 5 to hit the big screen. In the meantime, stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney movie news and beyond! Check out more Disney shopping news at the links below! EXCLUSIVE LOOK: This NEW Disney Toy Story Collection Is EVERYTHINGAll the Disney Hallmark Ornaments on Sale on Amazon TodayWe’re Embarrassed To Admit This Disney Essential Actually Works (and We Bought 2 More)These New Disney MagicBands Are Sure to Be PopularDisney Adults Are Racing to Amazon for This New Loungefly That Just Dropped 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 grabbing anything from this new collection? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

Calling all Bluey fans! Get ready, because the Disney Parks fun and festivities are just getting started. Following the recent debut of “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!”at Disneyland park, the beloved world of Bluey and Bingo is expanding once again, this time with brand-new merchandise making its way to different Disney destinations. From park visits to everyday playtime, these new Bluey-themed items will invite families and fans of all ages to celebrate the critically acclaimed animated series and show off their love for these sweet sisters. This merchandise is a magical way to spark the spirit of creativity and imagination, just as Bluey and her family do. Bluey Merchandise at Disneyland Resort Beginning later this spring, Disneyland Resort will be the first place guests can discover the new Bluey merchandise, joining some selections now available throughout Fantasyland. Keep an eye out for new must-haves for the whole family, coming soon! A booster pin set, the popular Create-Your-Own headbands, and character plush (wearing their own detachable Mickey Mouse Ear headbands) will hit the shelves in the coming months, in addition to other playful pieces like sweatshirts, socks, T-shirts, hats, and bubble wands. There will even be a hip pack, backpack, and tote bag that you can purchase to hold all your park day essentials (plus whatever merch you acquire during your visit). The different designs featuring the Disneyland logo show Bluey and Bingo having what truly seems to be the best day ever alongside icons like fireworks, balloons, Mickey ice cream bars, and a castle. These are perfect to wear if you’re heading over to the Fantasyland Theatre to have fun with Bluey and her pals, play themed interactive games, or enjoy some provisions like the Pizza Girls Baked Potato and Poffertjes! Poffertjes! from Troubadour Tavern. When you’re done snapping some photos, showing off your dance moves, and snacking on sweet or savory treats, these items make it easy to bring home the joy of Bluey and remember your delightful day at Disneyland. Some are already available, so let the shopping spree begin! Find new Bluey merchandise while supplies last at: Fantasyland Theatre Valet at Disneyland park Fantasy Faire Gifts at Disneyland park Bluey Merchandise at Walt Disney World Resort Bluey merchandise will also soon be making its way to Walt Disney World, giving guests from coast to coast even more opportunities to celebrate their favorite family. The same collection will be stocked at Disney World, featuring the classic Walt Disney World logo! From apparel and accessories to toys and trinkets, you’ll be able to commemorate your special and silly day at the park with Bluey in so many ways. These products will be hitting stores across Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park ahead of the new Bluey experience, “Bluey’s Wild World” at Conservation Station, debuting May 26 this year. Hop off the Wildlife Express Train and dive into the world of Bluey as you laugh, dance, and play with Bluey and her little sister Bingo. We’ll have more updates to share soon about what you can expect from this experience, so stay tuned! Discover Bluey merchandise while supplies last at: Island Mercantile at Animal Kingdom Conservation Station at Animal Kingdom Bluey Merchandise on DisneyStore.com Don’t have a trip to the parks planned anytime soon but still want to show off your Bluey style? Disney Store has you covered! Starting this summer, select items from the Bluey merchandise collection will be available to purchase on DisneyStore.com, giving fans more ways to find these favorite friends no matter where they call home. Get cozy with a hoodie and keep it casual with a T-shirt, grab a cute keepsake to add to your growing Bluey collection, or stay hydrated with patterned tumblers and water bottles. Disney Store will also carry an assortment of toys like a puzzle, playground ball, pullback vehicle, and figurine set for even the littlest of Bluey lovers to enjoy. Stay tuned to DisneyStore.com’s Coming Soon page for announcements on when these items will be available. Learn more about when and where Bluey is popping up across Disney Experiences around the globe right here on the Disney Parks Blog, and keep checking back for more news about parks, products, and beyond. Bluey at Disneyland Resort: Know Before You Go READ MORE What’s Cooking With Bluey-Themed Bites at Disneyland Resort READ MORE Bluey and Bingo Coming to Disney Experiences Around the World READ MORE The post New Bluey Merchandise Coming Soon to Disney Parks and Disney Store appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

If you’re shopping for Christmas in July, then we have the sale for you! Amazon has dozens of Hallmark Disney ornaments and tree toppers on sale right now. ©Amazon We’ve found the best sales on Disney ornaments right now – these Hallmark Disney Christmas ornaments are up to 55% off! Treat yourself for Christmas in July or get your Christmas shopping in early. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We’ve compiled our picks up to 55% off below, but you can also skip to shop the full sale here! See All Disney Hallmark Ornaments on Sale HERE This Disneyland A Magical Celebration Ornament is fit for royalty! ©Amazon This Disneyland A Magical Celebration Ornament features a miniature Sleeping Beauty Castle that lights up and plays music! Press the button to play music from “When You Wish Upon a Star.” Plus, it’s 55% off! view ON AMAZON Light up your tree with this Electrical Parade Ornament for 50% off! ©Amazon This Electrical Parade Ornament features Goofy riding in the Main Street Electrical Parade. The best part is that this ornament actually lights up and plays the Disney Parks Main Street Electrical Parade theme song! view ON AMAZON Grab this Haunted Mansion Tree Topper for 1,000 happy haunts! ©Amazon This Haunted Mansion Tree Topper features the Disneyland Manor as a Christmas tree topper. Connect the tree topper to the power cord for spooky lighting and a “Grim Grinning Ghosts” sing-along! view ON AMAZON Go on a Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride with these Lilo & Stitch Ornaments! ©Amazon These Lilo & Stitch Ornaments feature Lilo in a hula outfit and Stitch playing a guitar. For 20% off, treat your Ohana to matching ornaments! view ON AMAZON Lead the club with this Mickey Mouse Club Ornament! ©Amazon This Mickey Mouse Club Ornament celebrates the anniversary of The Mickey Mouse Club featuring conductor Mickey. Press the button to make it light up and play “Mickey Mouse Club March” from the classic television show! view ON AMAZON Still haven’t found your new favorite ornament? Shop the full sale! See All Disney Hallmark Ornaments on Sale HERE We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

Let’s set the scene. The sky begins to darken, the clouds roll in, and the most dreaded part of any Disney vacation happens: the rain starts to fall. Rainy Day And oh no! Your shoes are wet, and they’ll be soggy for the rest of the day. Unless you check out our new favorite Disney essential! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. They Might Look Silly, But These Waterproof Shoe Covers Work! Silicone Waterproof Shoe Covers At first glance, we did not think that these shoe covers would work at all! We’ve seen people around the parks wearing some variation of this shoe cover, and we were always hesitant to believe they actually worked. However, after using them, we were shocked! Silicone Waterproof Shoe Covers They actually did a great job of keeping our shoes dry! Of course, they still got a little wet, but that was only from water trickling into the small gap at the top. The rest of the cover did not let any water seep in, and our shoes were much drier than if we hadn’t used these covers. Easy does it! All you have to do is keep these in your bag, and then when it starts to rain, just slip them right over your shoes! It’s super simple, and these covers don’t take up any room in your bag! If you grab these covers, we would also suggest going for the larger size because the zipper can cause a little discomfort if it’s too tight. So if you’re trying to choose between two sizes, maybe go for the bigger one! Did we just find the ULTIMATE rainy day solution? Overall, we really think these are worth it for your Disney trip. With how much it rains in Florida, especially in the Summer, you won’t be able to avoid a downpour, and these are a great way to keep your feet dry and avoid having wet, smelly shoes for the rest of your trip. VIEW ON AMAZON Let us know if you’re planning to snag a pair of these waterproof covers for your next Disney trip, and make sure to follow Disney Food Blog so you never miss out on any Disney tips and tricks! View the full article

Select Fashion Leaders to Reimagine Mickey Mouse as Part of Multi‑Year Initiative Disney and Vogue announced a multi‑year creative partnership that will spotlight Disney Mickey Mouse through the lens of some of the world’s most dynamic fashion voices in the lead‑up to the 100th anniversary of Mickey Mouse. As part of the initiative, designers are invited into Disney’s archives to explore Mickey Mouse across decades of design, using vintage silhouettes, graphics, and storytelling as inspiration for contemporary reinterpretations. Each designer will reinterpret Mickey Mouse through their distinct creative lens. Calum Harper, British fashion model and social media influencer Vogue contributing editor Mark Holgate identified notable designers known for boundary-pushing aesthetics, cultural impact, and deep affinity for Disney Mickey & Friends, saying that, “The idea of bringing together Mickey Mouse, an enduring cultural figure known the world over, with designers from around the globe was thrilling — and a reminder that creativity is always at its best when there’s an openness to reimagining what we all already know and love.” Ami Paris founder and creative director Alexandre Mattiussi brings a distinctly human warmth to the collaboration and will be the first to launch his collection in early 2027. “Working with Disney on the road to Mickey’s 100th anniversary feels both surreal and deeply personal. Growing up, Disney was a world of imagination, emotion, and timeless storytelling that shaped the way I see creativity today. To collaborate now, through Ami Paris, is a true honor, and a meaningful opportunity to connect that sense of wonder with our own vision of friendship, joy, and modern Parisian style. Mickey is more than a character, he is a universal symbol that transcends generations. Being part of this celebration is something I am incredibly proud of,” said Mattiussi. Alexandre Mattiussi, founder and creative director of Ami Paris, and Lisa Baldzicki, President, Disney Consumer Products Kicking off the countdown to Mickey Mouse’s 100th anniversary — a milestone moment to both honor his legacy and creative future — this new partnership underscores Disney’s commitment to evolving one of its most iconic characters through culture and fashion. Nearly a century after his debut, Mickey’s place across pop culture and fashion is firmly cemented, defined by a constant balance of heritage and reinvention that keeps him as relevant on the runway and the street today as ever. “This new partnership celebrates Mickey Mouse as an enduring style icon, and we’re thrilled to partner with Vogue to explore his influence through a fashion-forward lens,” said Lisa Baldzicki, President of Disney Consumer Products. “We’re honoring Mickey Mouse’s legacy as a cultural symbol while inviting new interpretations that reflect how he continues to inspire creativity and style around the world.” (L-R) Joss Hastings, VP, Marketing Strategy; Lisa Baldzicki, President, Disney Consumer Products; Bobby Kim, Global Creative Director; Claire Terry, SVP, Disney Consumer Products EMEA; Shauna McCarthy, VP, Marketing and Communications The announcement builds on Disney’s standout presence at Vogue World: Hollywood, where the brand’s lasting influence on film, fashion, and culture was celebrated through runway moments and celebrity appearances, a preview of the creative synergy now unfolding between Disney and Vogue. For decades, Disney and Vogue have shaped culture through storytelling, artistry, and a shared ability to capture the imagination of global audiences. This collaboration represents an ongoing opportunity to celebrate Mickey Mouse as a timeless symbol of joy, creativity, and self‑expression and as a true pioneer in fashion whose influence continues to resonate on the world stage. Through this multi‑year initiative, Disney will collaborate closely with each designer to bring their unique artistic perspective to the world of Mickey & Friends, unfolding through distinct collection drops and defining cultural moments. The program invites audiences to experience Mickey Mouse’s creative futurism through touchpoints that span products, experiences, and community — fostering meaningful cultural connections across key global markets. Vogue will serve as a creative consultant throughout, helping shape the cultural conversation around each launch while spotlighting the designers’ visionary interpretations. The partnership launch was celebrated on April 23 at an intimate reception hosted at Canal in Notting Hill, London. Disney Style, Disney’s official fashion news brand, will have all the coverage of this collaboration. Follow @disneystyle on Instagram and TikTok for more information on this initiative and all upcoming Disney fashion collaborations. The post Disney Unveils Visionary Designer Initiative with Vogue Ahead of Mickey Mouse’s 100th Anniversary appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

For more than four decades, Gary has watched Walt Disney World Resort grow and evolve as its magic has taken root and blossomed one season at a time. First hired as a gardener at EPCOT, Gary now serves as an Urban Forester, leading a team of arborists who care for thousands of trees across property. His work helps ensure guests can enjoy shaded walkways, immersive environments, and beautiful landscapes for generations to come. “I started because I liked being outside, working with plants,” Gary shared. “But over time, I realized the scale of what we do here is something you just don’t experience anywhere else. We’re caring for landscapes that support storytelling, guest comfort, and the overall experience. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of.” A Festival Grown from the Ground Up From relocating massive trees to supporting the immersive storytelling of alien flora in Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Gary has spent his career balancing Walt Disney World’s continued growth with environmental responsibility and care for the land. EPCOT has always held a special place in his journey. Gary began his Disney career there decades ago and has witnessed the park’s transformation firsthand, including supporting the very first EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival in 1994. “At the time, no one imagined it would become what it is today,” Gary says. “Did I expect it to grow into this? No. Not at all. But every year, it gets better.” Gary overseeing the installation of the dragon topiary in the China pavilion. While Gary isn’t responsible for planning the festival, he has supported every single one since it began. His role focuses on the behind-the-scenes work that makes the magic possible, from crane operations to large-scale installations, helping bring the festival to life safely, thoughtfully, and sustainably. Gary supporting overnight topiary installations for the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival. Over time, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival has grown from a simple plant showcase into a park-wide celebration of storytelling, craftsmanship, and horticultural artistry — reflecting EPCOT’s evolution and its continued commitment to blending innovation with nature. Protecting Disney Landscapes for Generations to Come His work reflects a core arboricultural belief: mature trees matter and protecting them requires foresight, patience, and advocacy. “They provide shade, environmental benefits, and a sense of place you can’t get overnight,” Gary explains. “You can plant new trees, but the benefits of a mature tree are exponential. They’re the backbone of the landscape.” As Walt Disney World continues to grow and EPCOT evolves, Gary and his team work proactively to inspect trees, manage risk, and preserve existing landscapes—finding thoughtful solutions that support both longstanding infrastructure and new development. The Walt Disney World Arboriculture Team. One of Gary’s proudest accomplishments is helping build an arboriculture program that prepares the next generation of cast members to carry this responsibility forward. While he’s quick to credit the teams who do the work every day, his leadership has helped ensure care for the land remains a priority as the resort continues to evolve. From EPCOT’s earliest days to its ongoing transformation, Gary has had a front-row seat to how innovation, environmental stewardship, and storytelling can grow together. And each spring, when EPCOT blooms once again, every vibrant garden reflects decades of care, patience, and dedicated cast members working behind the scenes. This Earth Month, go behind the blooms in the newest episode of Disney Unscripted to explore the greenhouses and gardens where the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival first takes root and discover the craftsmanship that transforms simple seedlings into vibrant works of art. To join the team who cares for Disney’s iconic landscapes, learn how to become an arborist at The Most Magical Place on Earth. From Concept to Cup: The Cast Behind The Garden View Lounge READ MORE 2026 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival READ MORE Dance, Play, and Chill with Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Disney World READ MORE The post Growing with EPCOT: A Cast Member’s 40-Year Commitment to Caring for the Garden appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

In case you missed it, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Hollywood Studios closed in January to be rethemed into a brand-new Muppets roller coaster. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets G-Force Records, now run by stage manager Scooter with help from Kermit, Miss Piggy, and more, is working with The Electric Mayhem Band on their biggest show. But there’s one detail that will make us ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets over and over again! Similar to the previous Aerosmith version, the ride will blast classic rock songs covered by the Electric Mayhem band, and we got the full tracklist! The songs that will play during Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets are: “Song 2” — The Electric Mayhem “Born To Be Wild” — The Electric Mayhem featuring Camilla the Chicken “Love Rollercoaster” – The Electric Mayhem ft. Jennifer Hudson & Questlove “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)” – The Electric Mayhem ft. Def Leppard “Walking on Sunshine” – The Electric Mayhem ft. Kelly Clarkson ©Disney Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets starts with your VIP pass to see Electric Mayhem at G-Force Records with Kermit and Miss Piggy. There’s just one big problem: the band has been rocking out so hard that they lost track of time and are running late for their big show! So it’s up to you to help them get there with the help of a L.I.M.O., aka Lengthy Immediate Motion Objects. Let’s hop in! But if the ride is anything like the previous version with Aerosmith, then we’ll ride over and over to get all of the songs! Back in the Aerosmith iteration, if you could spy the license plate number of your super-stretch limo, it would tell you what song you would get! Here are the songs the license plates used to correspond to as a reference: 1QKLIMO: “Nine Lives” UGOBABE: “Love in an Elevator (Rollercoaster)” and “Walk This Way” BUHBYE: “Young Lust,” “F.I.N.E.,” and “Love in an Elevator (Rollercoaster)” H8TRFFC: “Back in the Saddle” and “Dude (Looks Like a Lady)” 2FAST4U: “Sweet Emotion” Super-Stretch Limo from Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith We can’t wait to get all of the songs, but we’re even more excited to see what the license plate numbers will be. Could we spy a “KERMIT” or “GR8GNZO,” or maybe even a nod to the original Aerosmith attraction by reusing their license plate numbers? We’ll have to wait and see! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Queue ©Disney We’re so excited to ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets when it opens on May 26th. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney World news! Disney Is Set To Make 8 BIG Changes at Hollywood Studios This Summer 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 song are you most excited to get when you ride? Comment below! View the full article

Unfortunately, we’ve all been there. You’ve saved up for months for your dream Disney World vacation… just to get woken up at 7 AM every morning by the construction next door! Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle If you’re headed to Disney World this summer, then you need our free guide to everything going on in Disney World right now so you’re not caught off guard! Getting our free guide will automatically subscribe you to our newsletter, which includes many of our articles every day. You can get Disney World news, Disney discounts, Disney cruise news, airline news, our favorite Disney merch, and more! If you need anything Disney, we’ve got your back. Disney World Hollywood Studios Lightning Lane Strategy for 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite time of year to visit Disney World? Comment below! View the full article

So it’s no secret that we love the food in Disneyland, although it can be a little pricey (and granted, we’ll always pay $$$ for our favorite snacks, sorry not sorry). Magic Key Sampler Box From DOLE Whip to Mickey beignets to churros, we’re always eating our way around Disneyland. Well, we just recently discovered a sampler box of Disney snacks that we HAD to try, and when we got it…let’s just say we were VERY surprised. So let’s talk about it! There’s just one thing we have to tell you: this food sampler box is only available to Magic Key Holders at Stage Door Cafe. It’s the Magic Key Samper Box, and it comes with two servings of tenders MASSIVELY smothered in your choice of sauce (and sauce choices are hot honey and mango habanero — we got both!) and fries for $17.99. First, this is a MASSIVE amount of food, which means it’s shareable. That means this could be the best value meal you’ll find in the park. It’s a lot of food! Our biggest complaint is that the sauce leaks onto the fries and makes them soggy, but that’s a minor issue. But let’s talk about taste. The mini corn dogs are perfectly juicy and salty, all in a bite-sized form. Honestly, we could eat hundreds of these in one sitting. The fries are regular Disney fries, which we, honestly, love. Those mini corn dogs are EVERYTHING The hot honey strips are DELICIOUS, and just hot enough that they don’t hit SUPER hard. They’re sweet and spicy, and although you can taste the honey, we appreciate that you can also really taste the spiciness, too. It’s a good balance of both flavors. The mango habanero strips have that sweet mango flavor, but then the habanero comes in, and we’ll warn you that this sauce is a lot spicier than the hot honey. It will fill your whole mouth and make your lips burn, so if you’re spice-averse, you’ve been warned. It’s nice and tangy, too. But honestly, both sauces are STELLAR. Chicken Tenders soaked in sauce Overall, this is a box stuffed with enough food to feed two people, and at just $18, it’s an incredible deal. If you’re looking for a quick meal for you and a friend in Disneyland, this could be it. We’ll keep an eye out for more new food in Disneyland, so stay tuned to DFB for more. This Celebrity’;s Favorite Disney Snacks SURPRISED Us! DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO What’s your favorite go-to snack in Disneyland? Share with us in the comments! View the full article

We can’t believe we’re saying this, but we’re already starting to dust off our Halloween costumes! It might only be April, but we’re already on high alert for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party map The extra ticketed after-hours party in Magic Kingdom is returning in 2026, so it’s time to start planning. As we eagerly await more details, we’re doing some detective work. When will tickets go on sale for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party? We think we have a good guess. If you don’t know already, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is one of the most popular events in Disney World. It often sells out, especially on popular dates like opening night and Halloween. That’s why we’re so serious about our planning, because we want to make sure that we (and you!!) get the tickets we want. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Traditionally, Not-So-Scary begins in August, so that means we’re probably VERY close to tickets being on sale. Over the past few years, we’ve tracked when tickets went on sale. Here’s a look at the previous years: In 2025, Disney resort guests were able to purchase tickets on May 15, and the general public was able to purchase tickets on May 22. In 2024, Disney Resort hotel guests got first dibs starting May 8, and the general public got their shot on May 15. In 2023, ticket sales opened on April 27 for guests with a resort reservation and on May 2 for everyone else. In 2022, those dates were a little later — May 12 and May 18, respectively. Not So Scary Snacks! That means (if history is an indicator) tickets will go on sale by the end of May at the latest! Disney traditionally gives us a few days’ notice before the tickets drop online. That’s another reason we like to try and plan even before they give us exact details, because they don’t give us too long in between the news and the ticket drop. Mickey’s Not So Scary If you already know the specific dates you want to aim for (and remember, this event doesn’t happen every single night), we have a few pieces of advice for you. If you’re traveling in the fall and the Halloween party is a must-do, start checking Disney’s website and social media channels daily (or you can keep following DFB because we will also update you ASAP) Don’t hesitate if you know this party is a priority. Not every date sells out immediately, but they will sell out eventually You’ve got to be ready when that ticket page goes live and refresh like it’s the Harry Styles tour (if you don’t get this reference, it was VERY difficult to get Harry Styles tickets, so you had to be ALERT) The Evil Queen! We are HUGE fans of this party, thanks to all of the exclusive things that you can find there. There are exclusive snacks, merchandise, parades, shows, characters, and MORE at this party. This year is sure to be exciting, and we’re on high alert for more information. As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news, updates, and more. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom IT'S SPOOK-TACULAR! Get ready for the spookiest season of the year at Disney World with our guide -- Halloween at Disney World: DFB's Spook-tacular Guide! From the thrills of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to the enchanting resort decorations that'll send shivers down your spine, our guide is packed with tips and tricks to help you squeeze every ounce of ghoulish fun out of your visit. Plus, we've got the inside scoop on all the limited-time-only bone-chilling activities happening across the parks! Get the Halloween at Disney World: DFB's Spook-tacular Guide to make your frightfully delightful adventure even more magical! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Halloween at Walt Disney World Get ALL the Info on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Check Out the Disney x Halloween Items You Can Get at Target Right Now Photos AND Reviews: ALL the Fall and Halloween Treats in Disney World! Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click Here to Subscribe Have you ever been to this event? Tell us in the comments! View the full article