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#Halfway2Halloween has arrived and we have a mystery graphic that may stump you! Can you get to the root of this grinning portrait? Scroll down to find the answer. If you guessed the Pumpkin Tree aboard the Disney Dream, you are spot-on! This wooded creature is part of a very special collection of enchanted trees that adorn the Disney Cruise Line ships during Halloween on the High Seas. Every year, from early September through October, the entire Disney fleet transforms into a ghoulish wonderland filled with frightfully fun events and activities, special decorations, unique menu items and themed parties. During these special voyages, each ship boasts a signature Pumpkin Tree in the atrium. On a special evening, a storytelling caretaker enlists families to help ignite a magical transformation of the tree. Check out this video to discover the story behind the Pumpkin Trees and their names: Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for our next “Where can you ‘Sea’ this?” challenge and more #DisneyMagicMoments from Disney Cruise Line. View the full article

Disney Plus review: ‘Fun and Fancy Free’ goes Bongo, knows beanstalks View the full article

Disney World is starting a phased reopening in Disney Springs on May 20th and we recently learned more about when Disney-owned shops and restaurants will join in. Earl of Sandwich We’ve been keeping you updated with all the stores and restaurants scheduled to open May 20th, and we just learned about one more restaurant making the list! We just confirmed that Earl of Sandwich will be reopening in Disney Springs on May 20th. Earl of Sandwich in Disney Springs The restaurant will operate with similar health and protocols to other Disney Springs locations. Black and White Cookie Earl of Sandwich has not spoken out on their specific operating hours or whether the menu will be affected during the re-opening. However, we will keep you posted as we learn more! Check out ALL the Disney Springs restaurants reopening on May 2oth here! What is your favorite sandwich at Earl of Sandwich? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: News! Chicken Guy In Disney Springs Will Reopen on May 20th Have Y’all Heard? There Are FREE Souvenir Sipper Refills at Homecomin’ in Disney Springs! NEWS! The Millennium Falcon Popcorn Bucket Has Landed in Disney World (In Less Than Twelve Parsecs)! View the full article

We have been covering Universal Orlando’s phased re-opening of CityWalk — from parking to temperature checks, and doughnuts to sit-down meals. Universal CityWalk Reopening But other than shopping and eating, what was there to do in the newly re-opened CityWalk? We hope you’ve been practicing your putting while Disney World’s Golf facility has still been open, because the only attraction we found today at Universal was mini golf! Hollywood Drive-In Golf Universal’s Hollywood Drive In Golf usually operates with two courses: Haunted and Sci-Fi. But at today’s re-opening, only the Haunted course was available to guests. Hollywood Drive In Golf To encourage social distancing, Universal requires guests to leave at least one hole between you and the next party. Fore example (see what we did there?), if you just finished putting at hole one and there is a group at hole three, you must wait until they move on to hole four to proceed. That way, there is always at least one hole of space between you. Hollywood Drive In Mini Golf There were markers on the ground for parties to line up and register, but it was pretty empty when we stopped by. Hollywood Drive In Mini Golf If golfing isn’t your fore-te (we can’t stop), there are still a select number of shops and restaurants open in CityWalk. But if you choose to go, make sure you are familiar with Universal’s new safety protocols! Click here to read all about our experience at CityWalk’s first day of re-opening! Have you ever tried Hollywood Drive In Golf? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Universal Orlando CityWalk is Reportedly Planning a Partial Reopening SOON NEWS: Universal Orlando’s CityWalk Will Open for Limited Operations on May 14th We’re LIVE from the Reopening of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk View the full article

In case you’ve been too busy puzzling or baking, we’ve been moderating a showdown throw down of Disney World Rides and Attractions. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance You make a bracket, vote on your picks, and see which ride will win all the glory in the final championship round! Polling for round three just closed and this is where your champions stand! DFB Rides and Attractions Throw Down Round Three Results Big Thunder Mountain Railroad continues to crush the competition as it overcame Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad But it’s going up against The Haunted Mansion in round four, which beat out Splash Mountain!! If it’s any consolation, Splash Mountain fans, it was a super close battle! Haunted Mansion Two other winners barely beat out their competitors: Space Mountain and Frozen Ever After were almost defeated by Pirates of the Caribbean and The PeopleMover! This is why every vote counts, people! Frozen Ever After The battle in Epcot heated up as Soarin’ beat Test Track! But, Rise of the Resistance almost lost to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (we’re talking a 52/48 split)! Rock N Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios You must be shouting “Sivako!” at home because Flight of Passage was more popular than the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular! And, it will be battling Kilimanjaro Safaris in the next round — which won against Kali River Rapids! Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular Round four starts TONIGHT! And you can vote via Instagram! We’re going from eight attractions to four, so it’s crunch time! Your favorite rides and attractions need your votes! Click here for a printer-friendly bracket of the Rides and Attraction Throw Down! Who are you surprised to see move on to round four? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Eight Lessons We Learned the Hard Way About Taking a BABY to Walt Disney World The First Half of Round One in DFB’s Attraction Throw Down Is Complete! Did Your Favorite Advance? Do You Think The PeopleMover Misses Us, Too? We’re Peeking Inside Disney World’s Closure Diary! View the full article

Universal Orlando’s CityWalk has partially reopened and we’re here today to see what it’s like now that new health and safety procedures are in place. Universal CityWalk CityWalk is currently open daily from 4-10PM and only select venues are operating at this time. Parking When we arrived, there was a short line of cars waiting to enter. Since we were there well before the shops and restaurants were scheduled to open at 4 PM, we decided to drive around to another entrance to see if it had a shorter line. And, sure enough, the next entrance we checked only had a few cars queued. CityWalk Reopening Valet parking is unavailable at this time, but self-parking is complimentary. We spotted signs at the entrance which cycled through to notify guests about free self-parking, required face masks, temperature checks, CityWalk’s hours, and more. CityWalk Reopening At first, Universal team members directed guests to park in every other spot so people could leave their vehicles while maintaining a safe distance from other parties. But soon after, the empty spots between vehicles were filled. CityWalk Reopening After tackling the parking situation, we made our way towards the entrance of CityWalk. Entering CityWalk In order to be admitted to CityWalk, there are a number of safety measures that guests are required to follow. Universal asks that all guests use a face covering, have their temperatures checked upon arrival, wash their hands often, social distance, follow floor markings, and avoid people who are sick. ©Universal As we approached the entrance, we noticed a large number of signs reminding guests of the safety policies, as well as social distancing markers on the ground. The markers on the ground indicate to guests where their party should stand in order to maintain the proper distance between them and the party ahead. CityWalk Sign and Social Distance Markers By 3:50 PM, there was quite a line forming for entry to CityWalk! From what we saw, guests seemed to be doing a pretty good job of adhering to the distancing guidelines as they were waiting to enter. CityWalk Reopening We also spotted some of the increased sanitation measures in action here as well. We saw hand sanitizer stations available for guest use and noticed employees sanitizing handrails. CityWalk Reopening We also asked an employee about face masks, since they are required for entry. The employee we spoke with at the time said they had a few disposable masks available, but that they were already running low. The employee also confirmed that guests without a mask will be turned away at security. So, in order words, triple-check that you have your mask with you before you head to CityWalk because there’s no guarantee that Universal will have a backup to provide, and you’re not getting in without one! City Walk Security Waiting Area Guests are also required to have their temperature checked in order to enter CityWalk. Guests with a temperature of 100.4 degrees and higher will not be permitted to enter. Temperatures were being taken by Universal security employees who were outfitted with gloves, masks, and face shields. Universal CityWalk Reopening The employees used touchless forehead thermometers, and guests wearing hats or anything else that could block their forehead were asked to remove them before their temperature was taken. Our temperature screening was super quick and friendly! Temp Check After the temperature check, we moved along to the bag check station. The bins in which guests place their belongings were being sanitized by Universal employees. Reopening of Universal CityWalk And with that, we were cleared for entry into CityWalk! Now, let’s talk shopping and dining experiences. Read more about our experience with temperature checks at Universal here! Restaurants Not all CityWalk restaurants were reopened, and the ones that have opened are operating with limited seating and menus. These venues were open on our visit: Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant and Market, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville (outside & Lone Palm), Red Oven Pizza Bakery (mobile ordering available), and Voodoo Doughnut (mobile ordering available). Voodoo Doughnut At Auntie Anne’s Pretzel, we noticed social distancing markers in the queue, much like other locations around CityWalk. Auntie Anne’s Auntie Anne’s also had bins for sanitized and unsanitized receipt trays for employees — each payment was placed on a clean sanitized tray. Auntie Anne’s was also accepting cash payments when we visited. Auntie Anne’s We stopped by Margaritaville which had a two and a half hour wait! Employees were taking guests names and numbers in order to text them when their table is ready. Guests were only being seated outdoors and at Lone Palm. Margaritaville Once we were seated at Margaritaville, a busser dropped off a bucket with silverware and asked us to grab our own so they didn’t come in contact with our cutlery. The buckets were sanitized after each use. We were also given a plastic bag to store our face mask. Margaritaville We were given paper menus, which are discarded after each guest. There were specific runners for handling food, and they only carried one plate at a time. Our runner also pointed out that she would only be touching the bottom of our cup. Drinks were served in glassware with paper straws. Margaritaville Our server also told us that they’re given a new apron after each shift. When it was time for the check, we were able to fill in the gratuity and total right away, which eliminated an additional trip to the server station, making for one less point of contact. Margaritaville Check At Voodoo Donut, we were instructed to wait outside first. Again, there were markings on the ground to keep guests six feet apart. Once we made it inside, we were lined up around the circular donut display before being directed to a register. VooDoo Donut We were told to wait by the register, and an employee brought our donut order to us. Voodoo Donut was also accepting cash payments! Donuts! In addition to the standard queuing process, Mobile Ordering was also available outside of the restaurant. VooDoo Donut Next up, we checked out Red Oven Pizza Bakery. Here, we also noticed social distancing markers. We placed an order via Mobile Ordering and an employee showed us to our table. We were also able to order beer and wine through the Red Oven Mobile Ordering. Red Oven Next, we checked out Bubba Gump, where we were met with a 45-60 minute wait. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. They provided us with a link by text message that allowed us to check our current place in line, which did allow guests to spread out more rather than keeping them close to wait for their name to be called. You can read more info about our dining experience here! Retail Locations There were pretty limited retail locations available. Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company (retail only), Universal Studios Store, and select merchandise carts were the only retail locations to open on May 14th. Universal Studios Store At the Universal Studios Store, there were designated doors for entering and exiting. There were Purell dispensers set up near the doors, and merchandise was stocked and available on the floor as normal. Universal Studios Store There were signs displayed throughout the store to remind guests of the social distancing guidelines, and markers on the floor near the checkout showed guests the proper spacing. CityWalk Reopening We also noticed plenty of hand sanitizer and face masks for sale. When we visited the Universal Store was still accepting cash payments. Face coverings Next, we checked out Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company, which is open for retail only. Hart and Huntington Tattoo They also had hand sanitizing stations near the door and markings on the floor to indicate proper social distancing. Read more about purchasing masks and hand sanitizer here. Entertainment Hollywood Drive-In Golf is the only entertainment option open at CityWalk. Hollywood Drive-In Golf Guests are required to social distance on the course by staying put at their hole until the group ahead has already moved on to the next hole. So, in other words, if your group wraps up at hole one, and there is still a group playing hole two, you have to wait until they’ve advanced to hole three before you can move up. Overall Experience We did notice guests taking off their masks to eat of course, but security was firm about requiring masks to be worn for entry and throughout CityWalk. CityWalk Reopening Outside of the CityWalk areas, it was pretty deserted, which was a strange sight to behold! Places we’re used to seeing eager guests queueing up for the theme parks were completely empty. Universal Studios Overall, we found most guests to be diligent about observing the social distancing and mask guidelines. And the Universal employees did a great job of keeping up with the new health and safety protocols. It was helpful to have a system in place for locations like Margaritaville that had extremely long waits and Universal followed through on the procedures they announced before reopening. Check out our live coverage of the reopening of CityWalk! Are you planning to visit CityWalk? Let us know in the comments below. Related posts: Universal Studios Has EXTENDED Its Temporary Closure Our Experience with Temperature Checks at the Newly Reopened Universal CityWalk Orlando NEWS and PHOTOS: Face Masks and Hand Sanitizer Available for Purchase at Universal Orlando Resort Stores View the full article

Universal's CityWalk partially reopened today with some noticeable changes. Orlando Sentinel theme park reporter Dewayne Bevil stepped onto theme park property for the first time in nine weeks and shares what he saw as Universal Orlando emerges from its coronavirus-pandemic shutdown. View the full article

CityWalk in Universal Orlando has officially re-opened and we’re coming at you LIVE with the latest. Red Velvet, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Bacon Brittle Milkshakes We’ve already updated you on crowds, parking, and the new safety protocols in place, but now we are heading to grab some food and drinks to see what the new restaurant experience is like. Before opening, Universal announced select restaurants would be operating with limited seating and menus. Main Dining Room The following venues were open for diners today: Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant and Market, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville (outside & Lone Palm), Red Oven Pizza Bakery (mobile ordering available), and Voodoo Doughnut (mobile ordering available). Ice Cream Check out what it was like ordering at VooDoo Doughnut today here! The wait for Margaritaville was two and a half hours, so we put our name on the list and waited to receive a text when our table was ready. We were getting hungry during the wait, so we took a quick pit stop for a pizza appetizer at Red Oven Pizza Bakery. Red Oven Pizza Bakery We took advantage of mobile order and were able to order pizza and drinks “to go.” Alcohol However, the outdoor seating is reserved for to-go orders and a host showed us to our seats. Red Oven Pizza Bakery After we finished our drinks, we received a text that our Margaritaville table was ready. Seating Our server shared that about 50% of the seating had been removed to allow for additional space between tables. Margaritaville seating Menu and Ordering Margaritaville — like other CityWalk locations — was operating with a limited menu. The host gave us paper menus, which are thrown away after use. Paper Menu Paper Menu After we were seated, the server brought us silverware in a bin. She asked us to grab our utensils and the bin is sanitized after each use. Margaritaville They also gave us a plastic bag for our face masks while we ate and we were able to remove them shorty after sitting. Service There are specific food runners, so the servers did not handle our food plates. When our drinks were dropped off, the server pointed out she only touches the bottom of the cup. Margaritaville When the food runner delivered our nachos, he carefully slid the plate on the edge of the table before sliding it over to us — to minimize contact. CityWalk Margaritaville The staff was wearing masks, but not gloves. Each server will also receive a new apron each shift. The staff sanitized their work stations — including the screen and check trays — at least every 15 minutes. Food Our nachos were served on traditional, re-usable plate with an extra plate underneath to prevent the runner from touching the food. Volcano Nachos When we were finished, the server asked us to move the plate to the end of the table so they would not have to reach in front of us. Drinks Our drinks were served in glasses, but our server gave us paper straws to drink from. We tried the Shark Fin and the Five O’Clock Somewhere. Shark Fin Five O’Clock Somewhere Paper Straws Additional straws are available upon request. Payment When it was time to pay, our server delivered the check in the plastic tray — holding onto it with a disposable napkin. Margaritaville check The first check already has a space to add gratuity and calculate the final total. This is meant to eliminate an additional visit to the server station. Margaritaville check Servers are not permitted to bring their own pens to work and pens are sanitized after guests use them. DFB tip: Bring your own hand sanitizer. There was a bottle at the hostess stand, but we liked being able to settle in, take our masks off, then sanitize before eating. Click here to check out all of our coverage of the first day of CityWalk’s re-opening! Which restaurant in CityWalk is your favorite? Let us know why in the comments below! Related posts: We’re LIVE from the Reopening of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk The CDC Just Released New “Decision Tools” for Businesses and Schools to Reopen Universal Orlando CityWalk is Reportedly Planning a Partial Reopening SOON View the full article

Just moments ago the author of the mega-popular young adult series Percy Jackson & The Olympians made a HUGE announcement on Twitter! © Disney Books That’s right — Rick Riordan just shared the BIG NEWS that Disney+ will be turning his books into a live-action TV show! Percy Jackson fans will recall there’s already been a film called The Lightning Thief as well as its sequel, Sea of Monsters. But fans have been waiting for almost a decade to see some of their famous Percy Jackson stories retold! © Percy Jackson Rick Riordan says the project is still in its early developmental stages and that he can’t discuss many details at this time other than the Disney+ series will follow the storyline of the original five-book series, starting with The Lightning Thief in season one. Rick Riordan even reassured his readers stating he would be “involved in-person at every step of the show.” © Rick Riordan’s Twitter “There will be much more news in the future, but for now, we have a lot of work to do! Buckle up, demigods. It’s going to a fantastic, exciting ride” wrote Rick Riordan. We couldn’t agree more! We’ll continue to follow this story and let you know when you can expect this series to air! Find out about the Making of Frozen 2 DocuSeries Coming to Disney+ here! Are you excited about the new Percy Jackson Disney+ series? Let us know if you’re a fan in the comments below! Related posts: Hi Ho! The Muppets Have a New Show Coming to Disney+ This Summer! Hold Up — How Many People Downloaded The Disney+ App Last Year?! NEWS! New Film Release Dates Announced For Mulan, Jungle Cruise, Black Widow, and More! View the full article

Did you visit Montana — from the comfort of your own home — when Adventures By Disney presented the Adventures At Home Kit: Montana Edition? If not, you can check that out right here! And if SO, it’s time to gear up for your next virtual vacay with the Adventures at Home Kit: South Africa Edition! Adventures at Home Kit ©Disney The Adventures at Home series is part of #DisneyMagicMoments which features at-home itineraries inspired by popular destinations with Adventures By Disney. To get ready to visit South Africa, you can start by heading to your closet to… Get in Gear Your Adventures at Home Kit suggests that you start by gearing up with items in your closet to get ready for your adventures! ©Disney Choose animal prints or other inspired styles. Safari Mickey Mickey always has my personal favorite “ready for a safari” look! Get in the Spirit Disney has provided a playlist of films that “bring to life the sights and sounds of Africa,” and they’re all currently available on Disney+! Celebrating The Lion King in Animal Kingdom True-Life Adventures: The African Lion The Lion King (1994) The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride The Lion King 1½ Disney Nature: African Cats The Lion King (2019) Disney Nature: Elephant Get Your Game On The image below (you can click to enlarge or print) provides all the instructions and info you need to play Adventures By Disney — Draw it! South Africa Edition. Draw It! ©Disney Are you ready to play?! Get A NEW RECIPE to Try! Disney Family is sharing a Spicy Durban-Style Chicken curry recipe from Sanaa — one of our favorite restaurants in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Spicy Durban-Style Chicken ©Disney You can find it right here! And Get Some DESSERT While You’re At It! And for a sweet finish to your virtual vacation, Disney Family is also sharing a recipe for Lion Paw Cookies. Lion Paw Cookies ©Disney You can find them here, too! Feeling inspired by all the Disney culinary magic? Find more Disney recipes here! Adventures at Home Kits are presented as part of #DisneyMagicMoments, a series delivering magic to you right at home including performances by the Dapper Dans of Disneyland and Walt Disney World, online animation classes by Disney artists, and more. (And a reminder, Adventures By Disney is currently featuring an Early Booking special for select itineraries in 2021 and 2022 — you can learn more here!) For more Disney magic you can enjoy from home… simply click here! Will you be taking a virtual vacation to South Africa? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: News: Adventures By Disney Debuts Rhine River Food & Wine Cruise Premium Disney Cruise Line Packages Announced for 2021! Adventures By Disney Announces New Destinations For 2021! View the full article

We recently shared a truly heartwarming animated short released by Disney, where our good friend Olaf wants us all to know that he (along with some other very special Disney friends) are with us, even while we’re apart! © Disney Now we can get a glimpse behind the scenes at the making of “I Am With You,” which was created entirely at home! Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf, shared a video on his Instagram of him recording the song, while explaining the unique process of making this animated short. He says that Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez, the incredible writing team behind the songs from the Frozen franchise, “wrote a song about spiritually being together while all of us remain far apart…and reminding everyone that we are all together right now even though we are separated by great distances. I decided to shoot a video of myself singing the song the day I recorded it.” We JUST put our tissues away after recovering from the animated short itself, and how we have to bring them all out AGAIN! You can check out this super sweet “a cappella” performance here! Have you seen the new animated short? How long did you last before you completely burst into tears? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Our Hearts Are MELTING Over This Heartfelt Message from Olaf — Made Entirely At Home By Disney! New Performers Added! Watch These Disney Celebrities Perform LIVE for You Without Leaving the House! News! The Disney on Broadway Benefit Concert is BACK ON! View the full article

We are live from Universal CityWalk this evening as the shopping and dining district of Universal Orlando has reopened with limited operations today for the first time since the Resort began its temporary closure in March in light of the current global situation. (While CityWalk is now reopen, the theme parks and the rest of the Resort remain closed until further notice.) Universal Orlando Resort We’re covering all the ins and outs of our visit from our arrival (including required temperature checks) to retail experiences and beyond. And, of course, we’re grabbing a bite while we’re at it, so we hope you’ll join us for a stop at VooDoo Doughnut on Universal’s CityWalk! You can’t miss the pink VooDoo Doughnut building among the other shops and dining locations. Voodoo Doughnut Another thing that guests can’t ever miss is the BIG DOUGHNUT CHAIR which is a popular photo spot for vacation guests. It’s still in place, and guests can still get their pictures taken. The difference upon reopening? The chair is sanitized between photo takers. VooDoo Doughnut Chair Other things we noticed upon approaching the shop are new ground signs like those we’re seeing in retail locations designating 6 feet of space between guests to promote physical distancing, as well as the Mobile Express pickup outside. Mobile Express Pickup These outdoor lines encourage waiting outside until you are allowed to go inside to ensure low guest capacity measures are met. Guests are let in one by one. Ground signage The signs continue inside the store in the queue, and a hand sanitizer station is prominently placed. Floor signage Hand sanitizer at VooDoo Doughnut The queue winds guests around the center doughnut display where guests can see what’s available. VooDoo Doughnut VooDoo Doughnut VooDoo Doughnuts is famous for unique flavors like “Dirt” (vanilla frosted with Oreo cookies), The Loop (with Fruit Loops!), and “Oh Captain, My Captain” with Captain Crunch. Fritters and more are available in a wide variety. VooDoo Doughnut When it was time to order, a team member directed us to a register. Do note that VooDoo Doughnut (like other locations including Auntie Anne’s and the Universal Studios Shop) have accepted cash payments, but Mobile Order is available for VooDoo and other locations, and use is encouraged. VooDoo Doughnut When everything was ready, our doughnuts were brought out to us. VooDoo Doughnut And here it is: our box of six VooDoo Doughnuts! Doughnuts!! While our typical post is more about the food at any given eatery, our primary purpose today was to experience the new safety measures at dining locations. But, hey, since we’re here…you totally want a look at those DOUGHNUTS, right? VooDoo Doughnut Doughnuts! You can spy our picks like the sweet-meets-salty Bacon Maple Bar. And creamsicle fans will like the Universal Orangesicle which is filled with Bavarian cream and topped with citrus frosting and chocolate pearls. And last but not least the VooDoo Doll: it’s filled with raspberry jelly topped with chocolate frosting and complete with a pretzel stake. VooDoo Doll They are all over-the-top and seriously tasty (though you can get classic cake doughnuts, too, if you prefer), and it’s no wonder that VooDoo has been a popular destination on CityWalk from the get-go. And THAT wraps up our visit! You can learn more about safety measures Universal is implementing as it reopens its CityWalk district here. And, as a reminder, Disney Springs will begin its reopening in Walt Disney World next Wednesday, May 20th. We’ll be keeping you posted on our new experiences in the Orlando area resorts this week and next, and we hope you’ll stay tuned. In the meantime, you can read more about the current status of Disney parks around the world by visiting any of the links below. Have you ever visited a VooDoo Doughnut location? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: NEWS: Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe Theme Park Construction to Remain On Pause Until Economy Starts to Recover Universal Studios Has EXTENDED Its Temporary Closure NEWS: Universal Orlando’s CityWalk Will Open for Limited Operations on May 14th View the full article

Although we haven’t been using My Disney Experience very much these days to make FastPasses or book dining reservations at Disney World, it seems like every time we open the app up, they’ve added something new! We Use Our Phones ALL the Time in Disney World! Not too long ago, Disney shared a way to make Pineapple Dole Whip at home with their Now You’re Cooking recipe tutorial! And now, instead of engaging our tastebuds, Disney is turning their attention to our green thumbs! They’ve just added some step-by-step instructions for how to make your very own DIY Hidden Mickey using succulents! © My Disney Experience Many varieties of succulents can be quite forgiving. They don’t require a lot of water like some other types of plants and generally they thrive indoors! The instructions make this little DIY project sound super-easy! All you need is a pot, some soil, three round-shaped succulents, and maybe a little extra fancy top soil for some extra pizzazz! Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Make sure the vessel you choose to plant your Hidden Mickey in has a drainage hole at the bottom! Then fill the container with potting soil, planting each of the succulents in the shape of Mickey’s head and ears. Put down a layer of colorful rocks (like you’d put in an aquarium) or other decorations and VOILA! You’ve made a new eco-friendly friend! Check out what else has been recently added to the My Disney Experience here! Are you planning on doing a little Hidden Mickey gardening? Let us know if you’re excited to test your DIY skills with this project in the comments below! Related posts: NEWS: Who Ya Gonna Call? Maybe NOT the Disney World Dining Reservation Center! Guess What Disney World Just Added to the Epcot Map…! Foodies! There’s a Brand New Step-By-Step Cooking at Home Feature on the Disney World App! View the full article

Businesses across the country have begun to reopen and we have been keeping you updated with how local task forces are working to balance supporting the economy while keeping citizens safe. CityWalk Universal Orlando’s CityWalk reopened today with new procedures, and Disney Springs plans to reopen next week. Today, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) released a new set of guidelines to help businesses decide whether they are ready to proceed with reopening or not. After weeks of deliberation, the disease experts from the CDC released a new set of guidelines to help states safely reopen businesses and schools following the global pandemic. Red Oven According to Good Morning America, the guidelines are voluntary for states to follow, but provide specific recommendations — termed “decision tools” — to help determine whether businesses or schools are ready to advance to the next stage of opening. ©CDC The guidelines include subcategories for Community Locations and Events, Education and Child Care, Shared Housing and Institutions, and Public Services and Infrastructure. Communities are advised to follow “personal protective measures, social distancing, and environmental surface cleaning” and you can read the full “Community Mitigation Strategies” here. These recommendations come as an update to the previous guidance that suggested reopening should follow a two week documentation of fewer case. ©CDC This document was released after a task force official stated last month that “overly specific instructions for how various types of businesses open up would be overly prescriptive and broad for the various circumstances States are experiencing throughout the country.” The new guidelines are voluntary and are designed to help businesses like restaurants as well as community members decide how to proceed. Are you a business owner looking for guidelines on reopening? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: We’re LIVE from the Reopening of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk Universal Sends Out Surveys About Potential Re-Opening Scenarios All the Disney News You Missed While You Were Celebrating May the 4th! View the full article

Now that we’re just past the halfway mark to Halloween, we’ve decided to celebrate the milestone with a surprise daylong #Halfway2Halloween takeover filled with fun, spook-tacular #DisneyMagicMoments to stir the imagination and inspire the heart – and it’s happening tomorrow, May 15! To help get you in the spirit for Friday’s first-ever #Halfway2Halloween celebration, we’ve dug into our archives to share some past favorite “after-dark” Halloween scenes from around the world. Halloween magic is enchanting the Disneyland Resort with a variety of “spoke-tacular” delights in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park. At Halloween, a special dimension of frightfully fun chills can appear after dark at Disneyland Paris. And happy jack-o-lanterns on Main Street U.S.A add to breathtaking scenes of the season at the Walt Disney World Resort! At Hong Kong Disneyland, there are happy frights and spooky sights during Halloween. Also, The Haunted Mansion can be dreadfully delightful at Tokyo Disneyland. And on the high seas, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse join the Halloween fun with Disney Cruise Line. Now that you’ve seen our beautiful, not-so-spooky Disney views, be sure to check back beginning Friday morning for a chillingly good time as we kick off our celebration of #Halfway2Halloween. We’ll be your Ghost Host for a day of fun Halloween experiences and spook-tacular #DisneyMagicMoments! View the full article

We’re reporting live from CityWalk in Universal Orlando now that some of the entertainment district’s restaurants and shops have started to reopen after being closed since mid-March. CityWalk So far, we’ve had our temperatures taken and we’ve seen face masks and hand sanitizer being sold at numerous retail locations, but here’s something we DIDN’T expect to see! Shortly after reopening, the Jimmy Buffett-themed bar and restaurant, Margaritaville, already boasted a 2.5 hour wait time! That’s some serious Parrothead pent-up demand (that’s the name Jimmy Buffett fans go by). Margaritaville A Margaritaville hostess said they are taking names and numbers to text guests when their tables are ready. While it seems like a lot of folks are excited to take bite out of paradise again, we think the longer wait time could also have something to do with the restaurant operating at limited capacity. Governor Ron DeSantis’ safety guidelines for Phase One only allow Florida restaurants to have 25% indoor occupancy while all outdoor tables must be spaced six feet apart. We also noticed the outdoor bar, Margaritas to Go, wasn’t open at this time. In fact, Margaritaville wasn’t providing any carry-out options during our visit. Margaritaville We’ll continue to explore the reopening of Universal Studios Orlando’s CityWalk. You can follow along with our live coverage of CityWalk’s re-opening here! Have you eaten at Margaritaville before? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Universal Studios Has EXTENDED Its Temporary Closure Universal Studios to Officially Implement Employee Temperature Checks NEWS: Universal Orlando’s CityWalk Will Open for Limited Operations on May 14th View the full article

Now that select Cast Members are being called back to work after being temporarily furloughed for Disney Springs’ phased reopening scheduled for May 20th, one of the largest unions at Disney World has just reached an agreement about paid time off. Disney Springs First reported by the Orlando Sentinel, the Service Trades Council Union, which represents 43,000 Disney employees, has secured paid sick leave for its members should they become ill and need to quarantine themselves. The agreement was reached today for the Disney workers, most of whom have been furloughed since April 19th. According to the guidelines set in place for Disney Springs’ employers, all Cast Members will also receive three washable masks plus a thermometer if they request one. Disney Springs Click here to see which Disney Springs retail stores will resume operations on May 20th! Workers may call in sick if they present symptoms commonly associated with the virus without violating Disney’s attendance policy. Employees will also receive training and participate in monthly safety meetings. We’ll continue to provide more details on this story as it develops. Related posts: NEWS: Get Nothin’ But Net with FREE Cast Member Entry to the NBA Experience in Disney World! Breaking News! Disney World Begins A Phased Reopening on May 20th With Disney Springs Here’s The Complete List of Retail Locations That Are Reopening in Disney Springs on May 20th! View the full article

Today, Universal CityWalk in Universal Orlando Resort has reopened with limited operations for the first time since beginning a temporary closure of the entire Resort in light of the current global situation. At press time, we are providing live coverage of our full experience on reopening day of the Resort’s shopping and dining district (while the theme parks remain closed until further notice). Universal CityWalk Reopening We’re also taking a closer look at our experiences with the new health measures in place around CityWalk, from our arrival and parking to dining and beyond. And while we’re definitely doing some eating, we also stopped by the Universal Studios Store. If you’ve ever visited Universal Orlando during your Florida vacation, this may be a familiar sight! Universal Studios Store A Universal team member stands near the door to monitor entry since retail locations in Florida are currently operating with limited guest capacity. Universal Studios Store As we explore the shops on CityWalk, one thing that we couldn’t help but notice is the prevalence of items such as face masks and hand sanitizer available for guests to purchase, as Universal has stated would be available on their website. Universal Studios Store Universal requires that all guests and team members wear a face covering. Universal Studios Store We found plenty available for purchase at 1 for $6.00 or in packs of 3 for $15.00. Face coverings Face coverings The masks themselves feature adjustable straps and you’ll also spot instructional signs for tying slip knots. Face coverings Face coverings Individual bottles of antibacterial hand sanitizer featuring carabiner clips for ease of carrying on your bag are also available for $3.00. Hand sanitizer They even sport the Universal Orlando Resort logo. Hand sanitizer In addition to bottles for purchase, you’ll notice hand sanitizer stations in high profile places like the store’s entrance. Purell Dispenser Of course, a visit to the store reveals more safety measures in place throughout including signs to promote physical distancing. Store signage to promote distancing Signs on the floor are easy to spot, marking 6 feet apart from other guests. Store signage to promote distancing Store signage to promote distancing You can learn more about safety measures Universal is implementing as it reopens its CityWalk district here. And, as a reminder, Disney Springs will begin its reopening in Walt Disney World next Wednesday, May 20th. We’ll be keeping you posted on our new experiences in the Orlando area resorts this week and next, and we hope you’ll stay tuned! In the meantime, you can read more about the current status of Disney parks around the world by visiting any of the links below. What do you think of the new safety measures at Universal CityWalk? Please let us know with a comment. Related posts: Our Experience with Temperature Checks at the Newly Reopened Universal CityWalk Orlando Universal Studios Has EXTENDED Its Temporary Closure Universal Orlando CityWalk is Reportedly Planning a Partial Reopening SOON View the full article

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The Broadway show is the first long-running hit to announce a permanent closure. View the full article

Recently, we shared that Broadway will remain dark through the summer season. Currently, the heart of New York City’s theatre district will remain closed through at least September 6, 2020. ©Disney When the curtains rise on Broadway once again, there will be one less musical for audiences to see. According to The New York Times, Frozen will not reopen, meaning that the show played its final performance in March before all of Broadway closed due to the current health crisis. ©Disney This will mean that the only Disney musicals running on Broadway are The Lion King and Aladdin. Currently, there are a number of international productions in the works for Frozen, including productions in Japan, Germany, Australia, and the West End in London. Certain set and costume pieces will be repurposed for those productions to help reduce waste. There is also a U.S. touring production that is currently halted due to the health crisis. We will continue to update you on this situation if anything changes. Did you have plans to see Frozen on Broadway? Will you try to see the tour now instead? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: News! The Disney on Broadway Benefit Concert is BACK ON! “For the First Time in Forever” the Rose Parade Will Have a Half-Time Show and Disney’s Helping! Find Out How Long Broadway Is Now Expected to Remain Dark And How You Can Help Performers View the full article

Now that CityWalk at Universal Orlando has reopened, they are implementing new safety measures — including required temperature checks. Universal CityWalk Reopening While the Universal theme parks still remain closed, CityWalk at Universal Orlando has reopened today with limited hours, limited offerings, and new health and safety measures. One of the safety measures they have implemented is required temperature checks for both employees and guests. Here was our team’s experience with the CityWalk temperature check screening! As of May 14th, select venues at CityWalk at Universal Orlando will be open from 4PM-10PM. In order to reopen safely, a number of new health measures have been implemented including required face coverings for guests and employees, limited seating, social distancing, and temperature checks for both guests and employees. Those with a fever above 100.4 will not be allowed to enter CityWalk. ©Universal Today, our team visited CityWalk on reopening day to get a feel for the new procedures. Let’s take a look at their experience with the temperature check process! When we arrived at CityWalk today, the very first thing we had to do on our way from the parking lot to the complex was to go through a temperature check. Security Cast Members taking temperatures wore gloves, masks, and face shields. Security Checkpoint When it comes to getting your temps checked, you’ll walk up to the employees, and they’ll aim a no-contact forehead thermometer at your head (hats off for this!). As long as your temperature is below 100.4 degrees, you’ll be free to enter Universal CityWalk. Overall, we were actually impressed by the simplicity of the process. Employees were very friendly and helped us feel comfortable with the new procedures. Temp Check After your temperature is checked you’re good to move on to bag check. Employees are sanitizing the bins that are used to store guests’ items during the bag check. Reopening of Universal CityWalk We also noticed hand-sanitizer locations before and after the temperature check stop. Hand sanitizer location Honestly, the experience reminded us of when we have to get scanned by a metal detector at security. It wasn’t super disruptive to our entrance as it only slows you down a little bit. Share your experiences and thoughts on this new process with us! Keep following along with our coverage of the CityWalk opening at the link below! We’re LIVE from the reopening of CityWalk! Click here to see how everything looks! Do you know someone who visited CityWalk when it reopened today? Share your experiences with us in the comments! Related posts: Universal Studios to Officially Implement Employee Temperature Checks Universal Orlando CityWalk is Reportedly Planning a Partial Reopening SOON Bob Iger Comments on Big Potential Change Coming to the Disney Parks View the full article

Here's what Disney and its union are doing to keep employees safe during the Disney Springs reopening. View the full article

Disney Springs is set to begin to open on May 20th, and this process is set to be phased. Disney Springs You might remember a few days ago we noticed that many of the dining locations at Disney Springs had reservations open on My Disney Experience. Now, though, it appears that Disney has started to pull those reservation options from the applications with almost every restaurant now unavailable through July. We were checking out the res’ prospects for early June today when we saw that all those options we had spotted the other day are gone! You can still make some reservations via OpenTable. MDE Screenshot Oddly enough, the only two places that still had reservations available for June were Ravello at Four Seasons Orlando and Wine Bar George in Disney Springs. We’re wondering if this is just a fluke and these are reservations that just haven’t been pulled yet. We’ll be looking into it and we’ll update this post when we know! What do you think of the reservations being pulled? Tell us in the comments! Related posts: Cozy Up to Warm Mulled Wine at Wine Bar George in Disney Springs What’s New in Disney Springs — Dance Parties, a Darth Vader Bag, and MORE! What’s New in Disney Springs — Halloween Cakes, Construction Updates, and Galaxy’s Edge Merch! View the full article

Disney Springs will begin a phased reopening on May 20th, and we are keeping readers informed of all the restaurants and shops that will reopen in Walt Disney World’s shopping and dining district starting next week. UNIQLO While Disney-owned locations will begin opening to guests later in the month, third-party vendors may choose to open as early as May 20th. A visit to the UNIQLO website reveals that hours have been posted for 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM for Wednesday, May 20th. You can see a screenshot of the hours below. UNIQLO website screenshot We are big fans of UNIQLO, and we’re pretty sure other guests enjoy checking out their huge collection of Disney-themed tees (among TONS of other clothing for men, women, and kids) as much as we do. Magic for All Mickey Collection We are continuously updating our lists of restaurants (click here) and shops (click here) that are reopening in Disney Springs on May 20th, and we will continue to keep you posted as this story develops! To learn more about the current status of Disney Resorts and parks around the world, you can click here or visit any of the links below. Find out more about the phased reopening of Disney Springs here! Is UNIQLO a must-stop for you in Disney Springs? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Breaking News! Disney World Begins A Phased Reopening on May 20th With Disney Springs NEWS: Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill in Disney Springs Now Accepting Reservations for May 20th Reopening NEWS: Sunshine Churros to Reopen on May 20th in Disney Springs View the full article